Picture Spokane in winter. If you’re just thinking of a chilly city you pass through, you’re missing the magic. When that Inland Northwest snow blankets Riverfront Park and the air gets that crisp, clean snap, Spokane transforms.
It becomes a playground of twinkling lights, steaming mugs, and adventures right outside your door. This isn’t a season to endure here. It’s a season to celebrate.
Ready to discover the absolute best places to visit in Spokane, Washington this winter? Buckle up. We’re diving deep into a list that goes beyond the obvious.
From frozen waterfalls to cozy bookshops, this is your secret manual for an unforgettable Spokane winter. These spots are where memories are made, and we’re giving you the keys.
1. Glide Through Riverfront Park
This is Spokane’s winter heart. Riverfront Park isn’t just a summer spot. The numerical SkyRide gondolas offer a stunning, slow-moving journey over the frozen Spokane Falls.
Seeing that powerful water churn and ice over from above is a spectacle you can’t get any other time of year. The view is downright cinematic.
Down below, the park becomes a wonderland. The paved paths are perfect for a brisk, beautiful walk with the river as your soundtrack. They often have festive light displays that make everything sparkle after dark.
Starting your trip here isn’t just a suggestion; it’s the first rule for incredible winter activities in Spokane. It’s the city’s living room, dressed in its finest frosty attire.
2. Ski and Tube at Mt. Spokane Ski & Snowboard Park
Let’s talk real snow. Just 45 minutes from downtown, Mt. Spokane State Park is a winter paradise. With over 1,900 acres of skiable terrain and 50 named runs, it’s a local’s haven.
But here’s the inside scoop: you don’t have to be an expert to have a blast here. Their Nordic skiing trails are some of the best in the region, perfect for a peaceful glide through silent, snow-heavy forests.
Prefer pure, simple joy? Their tubing hill is an absolute riot for all ages. No skill required, just laughter. Choosing to play at Mt. Spokane is a top pick for any Spokane winter vacation focused on outdoor fun.
The mountain vibe is friendly, the lines are shorter than at mega-resorts, and the memories are guaranteed.
3. Find Cozy Magic at the Bing Crosby Theater
Downtown’s historic Bing Crosby Theater is a gem. This 1915 vaudeville house, named for Spokane’s own legendary crooner, oozes charm. Winter is the perfect time to catch a show here.
The intimate atmosphere feels like a warm hug from history. They host everything from indie films and live podcasts to concerts and comedy acts.
Sinking into a plush seat under the elegant ceiling feels special. It’s a world away from a generic multiplex.
Checking their calendar and booking an evening here is a brilliant move for your list of things to do in Spokane this winter. It’s culture, history, and a fantastic night out all wrapped into one beautiful package.
4. Explore the Wonders of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture
When the weather gets frosty, get cultured. The Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture (the MAC) is your indoor sanctuary of cool.
Their exhibits are a dynamic mix of regional history, indigenous cultures, and visual art. You could spend hours exploring their collections, which tell the deep, rich stories of the Inland Northwest.
It’s engaging for adults and kids alike. The museum is warm, quiet, and thought-provoking—the ideal antidote to a gray afternoon.
Making time for the MAC is a smart addition to your Spokane winter itinerary. You’ll walk out with a much deeper understanding of this unique corner of the country.
5. Stroll the Charming South Hill Bluff
For the best views in town without a lift ticket, head to the South Hill Bluff. The trails here, like the popular Rocks of Sharon route, become a winter hiking adventure.
The snow-dusted basalt cliffs look out over the entire Spokane skyline and river valley. It’s a perspective that will take your breath away.
Pack some traction devices for your boots, take it slow, and soak in the vista. You’ll likely have the trail mostly to yourself, sharing it only with the occasional hardy trail runner.
This is a local secret for winter recreation in Spokane that feels a million miles from the city, even though you’re right in it.
6. Browse the BooKworm on Main Avenue
Every great winter city needs a perfect bookstore. The BooKworm is that place. Tucked in the Main Market Co-op, this independent shop is a labyrinth of used and new titles.
The smell of old paper is instant comfort. You can lose an hour just browsing the packed shelves, finding literary treasures you didn’t know you needed.
After you pick your next read, grab a hot drink from the market cafe. It’s the ultimate low-key, cozy afternoon. Finding your favorite nook here is a quiet but essential ritual for a true Spokane winter experience. It’s where locals go to unwind and explore.
7. Experience First Friday in the Davenport Arts District
On the first Friday of each month, the downtown Davenport Arts District comes alive. Galleries open their doors for free viewings, studios welcome visitors, and the streets buzz with creative energy.
In winter, this feels extra special. Ducking in and out of warm galleries filled with local art is a vibrant way to spend an evening.
You’ll see paintings, sculptures, and crafts from Spokane’s talented makers. It’s a chance to feel the city’s creative pulse and maybe find a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
Planning your Spokane winter trip around a First Friday is a pro move for a dynamic and culturally rich night out.
8. Hike to a Frozen Waterfall at Bowl and Pitcher
Riverside State Park is a year-round star, but winter is pure magic at the Bowl and Pitcher area.
The massive basalt rock formations, dusted with snow, tower over the Spokane River. The easy trail to the suspension bridge offers stunning views. But the real prize? The smaller waterfalls along the trails often freeze into incredible, sparkling ice sculptures.
It’s a moderately easy hike that rewards you with a scene straight out of a fantasy novel. Remember your camera.
This adventure is a cornerstone for anyone seeking the best winter hiking near Spokane. The quiet, frozen beauty here is unforgettable.
9. Savor Comfort Food in the Perry District
Winter demands hearty, delicious meals. The Perry District is a foodie neighborhood packed with personality. You’ll find everything from gourmet vegan comfort food to legendary burgers and fresh, hand-pulled noodles. The vibe is unpretentious and friendly.
Walking into a warm restaurant here after a day in the cold is the best feeling. The menus are built for the season—think rich stews, savory pies, and steaming bowls of pho.
Exploring Perry Street’s eateries is a non-negotiable, delicious entry on any Spokane winter guide. Your taste buds will throw a party.
10. Skate Under the Lights at the Ice Ribbon
Riverfront Park is so great it gets two entries. The Numerica Ice Ribbon is an outdoor skating experience that feels like a hallmark movie scene. Gliding on real ice with the park’s lights twinkling around you is pure joy. They offer skate rentals, so no need to bring your own.
They often play music, and the atmosphere is festive and fun. It’s a classic winter activity that never gets old.
Adding an evening skate to your list of Spokane winter activities is a surefire way to create a picture-perfect memory with friends or family. It’s simple, it’s beautiful, and it’s quintessentially Spokane.
11. Discover History at the Campbell House
Step into the Gilded Age. The Campbell House, part of the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture campus, is a perfectly preserved 1898 mansion.
The winter tours feel extra intimate. You’ll see how Spokane’s early wealthy families lived, with original furnishings and stunning architectural details.
It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s boomtown past. The guides are full of stories that make history come alive. Including this tour in your Spokane winter plans adds a layer of elegance and historical depth you won’t find anywhere else. It’s a warm and wonderful escape into another time.
12. Wander the Manito Park Greenhouse
Manito Park is a summer floral superstar, but did you know the Gaiser Conservatory is a tropical oasis all winter long? Stepping inside is a shock to the senses in the best way. The humid air, the vibrant green foliage, and the colorful blooms are a total reset.
It’s free to visit and feels like a mini-vacation to a warmer climate. Kids love it, and photographers find endless beauty. A quick trip here is a brilliant little mood booster during your winter in Spokane. It’s a guaranteed smile, especially on the grayest of days.
13. Catch a Family Show at the Spokane Civic Theatre
For decades, the Spokane Civic Theatre has been delivering fantastic community theater. Their winter lineup is always packed with family-friendly musicals, beloved plays, and heartwarming productions. The talent is impressive, and the energy in the room is contagious.
Seeing a show here supports local arts and guarantees a fun, engaging evening. It’s the kind of experience that makes you feel connected to the city.
Getting tickets is a wonderful idea for your roster of Spokane Washington winter attractions. You’ll leave humming the tunes and feeling glad you went.
14. Snowshoe at the Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge
For absolute peace and stunning wildlife, drive 30 minutes south to Turnbull National Wildlife Refuge.
In winter, the frozen wetlands and pine forests become a silent, snow-covered dreamscape. Rent or bring snowshoes and hit the trails. You might see elk, deer, coyotes, and a huge variety of winter birds.
The silence is profound, broken only by the crunch of your snowshoes. It’s an easy, flat adventure that feels wildly remote. Ending your trip with this serene experience solidifies why a Spokane winter vacation is so unique. It’s nature, pure and simple.
Conclusion
See? Spokane in winter isn’t just a destination; it’s a mood. It’s the crunch of snow underfoot on a downtown bridge, the warmth of a cafe after a mountain adventure, and the glitter of ice under park lights.
Each spot on this list offers a different way to fall in love with the Inland Northwest’s premier city.
Your ultimate guide to winter in Spokane is complete. The snow is falling, the lights are on, and the city is waiting. Don’t just dream about that cozy winter escape. Start mapping out your Spokane adventure today—this is one season you won’t want to miss.