Just north of downtown is the NORTH MONROE BUSINESS DISTRICT, a more than one-mile stretch of shops where antique, vintage, collectibles and retro reign supreme. Stores like MARILYN’S ON MONROE embody all of the above with a mélange of books, houseware, clothes, jewelry, toys and hard-to-find items that span from funky kitsch to the sought-after rarity. KINGS (formerly Kingsley & Scout), on the other hand, is a go-to spot for high-quality menswear and lifestyle goods from boutique brands like Filson, Unbranded and Deus Ex Machina.

“There’s so much on offer on North Monroe,” says Gina Campbell, owner of 1889 SALVAGE CO. and chair of the district’s business group. “You can really make an entire day of it by coming out and browsing or window shopping at all of our small businesses. Many of them will also be having special events in the run-up to Christmas, like bringing in a donation and having your picture taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus.”

Should you work up an appetite, be sure to stop in at ELLIOT’S – AN URBAN KITCHEN and try one of the dinner staples like pork green chili or a brunch special like biscuits and gravy. At the southernmost tip of the district, close to downtown, is FINNBOY RECORDS, BOOKS & CURIO, where you can find a carefully curated collection of everything in the store’s name. And then some.

In nearby KENDALL YARDS, FRENCH TOAST might sound like a popular breakfast spot, but it’s actually one of the area’s best-known retailers of upscale clothing, toys, stationery and other items for babies, toddlers and moms. For women who want to look their fashionable best, BOUTIQUE BLEU is the place to be. This clothing and accessories shop boasts a handpicked selection of sandals, boots, dresses, sweaters, skirts, jeans and handbags that will set anyone apart from the crowd. Their website is also great for online window shopping.

Neighboring FLEET FEET has plenty of dedicated running gear like watches, bottles and tights, yet its primary focus falls on where the rubber meets the road. From trail running shoes to extra supportive sneakers designed for stability, this is where racers, runners, walkers and track stars come to find their optimal footwear. And don’t leave the district without sampling the authentic Mexican fare at MOLÉ. Co-owner and head chef Fredy Martinez has developed a vast menu with classics like Oaxacan rack of lamb, seafood enchiladas and gourmet burritos.

Venture to the east of downtown and before long you’ll come to the SPRAGUE UNION DISTRICT.

“When you shop Sprague Union, you know you’re supporting small, local businesses,” says Heather Hanley. In addition to working on behalf of the district at large, Hanley is also the creative director at TIN ROOF, the furniture and home décor retailer that consistently tops local reader polls on account of its selection and service. Less than three blocks away, TWO WOMEN VINTAGE GOODS offers a more vintage-inspired spin on home décor. Their shelves are stocked with unique kitchenware, antiques and much more to enhance your interior space.

Another enhancement to interior space is original artwork, which is why NEW MOON GALLERY is a must-visit for holiday shoppers. The retail space features sculpture, paintings, ceramics and metalwork from some of the finest emerging and established artists in the region.

GREENCASTLE SOAPS takes a similar artisanal approach to its beauty productions, using all-natural, 100 percent biodegradable ingredients. When you’re ready to relax and recharge, BENNIDITO’S BREWPUB has a huge selection of handcrafted signature pizzas and sandwiches as well as plenty of beer options.

“It’s a very walkable district, too,” says Hanley, “so we like to put up lights and organize shop hops that take people around to all the different places that make this area so special.”

From the Inlanders 2022 Spokane Holiday Guide edition. To see more of the Inlander's best guides to Spokane, visit Inlander.com