THE HISTORIC DAVENPORT
Why go when you can staycay?
Traveling to far and distant places always makes for a welcome change from the familiar. But, let’s face it, it can also be a pain in the neck. Planning, packing, missed connections, long layovers, unfamiliar streets, stressful interactions — these are the kinds of things that make us need a post-vacation vacation. And these days, we also can’t forget that even a short domestic flight carries some additional risks requiring extra precautions.
Hence the beauty of the staycation. It’s a break from the mundane but without the hassle of being in transit. You get to leave behind your predictable routines and the boredom of the ordinary, yet you’re still close enough to nip back home and triple-check that you locked the back door and turned off the oven. That’s the peace of mind that makes for a truly relaxing time.
Here are five local spots that can help you escape the monotony of sheltering at home without having to work too hard for it.
MIRABEAU PARK HOTEL
Of the 235 spacious guest rooms at Mirabeau Park Hotel, those with fully equipped kitchenettes might be best for enjoying top-notch takeout for two from the hotel’s Max restaurant and lounge. And during the holiday season, the hotel’s stunning light display makes things even more festive. This year, its “Home for the Holidays” promotion (Dec. 20–26) is perfect for staycationing couples. It includes two complimentary glasses of wine or beer, and guests who pay for two nights get a third night free. 1100 N. Sullivan Rd., Spokane Valley, mirabeauparkhotel.com, 924-9000
HOTEL INDIGO SPOKANE
Hotel Indigo might be the new kid on the block, but this dog-friendly boutique hotel pays plenty of homage to the history of its building as well as its city. Each of its elevator lobbies takes a cue from one of the hotel’s previous names: Atlantic, Earle, Milner, Otis and Willard. And each of its 108 rooms features a mural of Spokane past or present. The onsite restaurant, Magnolia American Brasserie, serves dishes inspired by rustic French cuisine as well as perennial favorites for domestic palates. 110 S. Madison St., ihg.com, 862-6400
NORTHERN QUEST CASINO & RESORT
Far enough outside Spokane to feel like a minibreak, close enough to be, well, super close, Northern Quest gathers every amenity you could want and puts it under one roof. La Rive Spa pampers you while also practicing safe public health guidelines. Masselow’s Steakhouse offers premium three- or four-course curated meals, whereas EPIC Sports Bar lets you indulge your comfort food cravings in style. And, of course, there’s always the chance to win big at the casino itself. 100 N. Hayford Rd., Airway Heights, northernquest.com, 877-871-6772
RUBY RIVER HOTEL
For riverside relaxation with proximity to downtown, nothing beats the Ruby River Hotel. On brisk winter mornings, you might wake up and see the steam wisping off the Spokane River. Better still, it’s close to walking, jogging and cycling paths like the Centennial Trail — which, incidentally, will be lit in grand style in front of the hotel to celebrate the holiday. The in-house Osprey Restaurant & Bar pairs handcrafted cocktails with seasonal, regional ingredients. 700 N. Division St, rubyriverhotelspokane.com, 326-5577
MONTVALE HOTEL
Back in 1899, you could rent a room at the Montvale for $5 per month. Today, Spokane’s oldest boutique hotel still remains affordable — though not quite to the same degree. Its historic charm and downtown location make it ideal for a cozy, upscale retreat, even if the free WiFi lets you stay connected with the wider world. Downstairs you’ll find the Gilded Unicorn, which makes a fine signature mac ’n’ cheese and some excellent cocktails to go. The bonus? As a guest, you get 10 percent off there. 1005 W. First Ave., montvalespokane.com, 624-1518
THE HISTORIC DAVENPORT
There are few places in Spokane that are more synonymous with the history of the city than the Davenport Hotel. Today, this regal landmark continues to offer more than just luxury lodging and premium amenities. With its magnificent architecture and impeccable service, it’s something closer to the experience of being transported to a world of timeless grandeur that exists outside the here and now. What better spot for an overnight getaway? 10 S. Post St., davenporthotelcollection.com, 800-899-1482
