Thinking about moving to the University District in Spokane? Good call. Thinking about experiencing everything the neighborhood has to offer in December? Even better. Winter here is cold, sure, but it’s also alive. With some of the finest art galleries, cozy cafés, and music venues in Spokane, plus apartments like ours that wrap you up in comfort, this is the place to be.
Thanks to the vibrant layout and walkability of this youthful area, you can hop from a student recital at Myrtle Woldson to a quiet exhibition at the Jundt Art Museum without needing a car. Public sculptures, murals tucked behind buildings, and pop-up shows make the cultural scene of U-District more palpable than ever. This is where you’ll find dozens of performances, exhibitions, and community events, from First Friday art walks to student installations that make your evening stroll inspiring.
If you don’t feel like browsing a million sites to get the info, we’ve got you covered. Read on and let us show you the spots you’ll soon call your daily go-tos.
Galleries & Art Spaces
You don’t have to cross the University District to enjoy Spokane’s artistic spirit—just head inside those spots you were already passing on your commute. It's like your personal art crawl… minus the freezing toes (maybe just slightly chilly).
Explore Gonzaga’s Jundt Art Museum in Spokane
The Jundt Art Museum sits right on Gonzaga University’s campus (just off Cincinnati Avenue, between Boone and Desmet), and it’s really easy to find if you follow the bell tower. It includes the main Jundt Galleries, the more intimate Arcade Gallery, a Chancellor’s Room exhibition lounge, and a Print Study Room. Another great thing? Admission is free, and the museum is open Monday–Saturday, making it the perfect cold-weather escape.
One of their current exhibitions, “Personal to Political: Celebrating the African American Artists of Paulson Fontaine Press” runs through December 20 and features 40 prints by talented artists. There’s even a sculpture by David Huffman made from 650 rubber basketballs—talk about bouncing ideas around. You can also explore the works of Freuen & Farrell, and their passion for ceramic pieces with organic designs.
Feel the Contemporary Pulse at Saranac Art Projects
Located at 25 W Main Avenue towards downtown, Saranac Art Projects highlight the modern artists of University District, Spokane. It’s a cozy weekend stop, open on Fridays and Saturdays, ideal for finding a little treasure to take home or simply enjoying creative energy. Walk around it, and you’ll notice murals and sculptures on the back of the Saranac and Community buildings, turning the neighborhood into an ever-changing painting.
Want to experience more of the city’s galleries? Check out the Spokane Arts Interactive Map.
First Friday, Spokane
Have you ever heard of First Friday? It’s a local tradition organized by the Downtown Spokane Partnership, and it’s, well, in the name. On the first Friday of every month (for example, December 5th this year), galleries, studios, and pop-up spaces open their doors for an evening of culture and conversation. This event blends art with socialization at venues like D2 Gallery and Studio, The Spokane Club, and Jaazz Salon, which is hosting its one-year anniversary party. You might have to step out of the University District, Spokane, but that’s kind of the point—First Fridays bring residents from all neighborhoods together, and you don’t want to miss it.
Live Music: Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center Warms the U-District
If the neighborhood had a pulse, you’d hear it from the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center. Sitting right at 211 E DeSmet Ave, this gorgeous venue is Gonzaga’s creative home base—but don’t let the university tie fool you. It’s not just a place for students and faculty. Families, professionals, and locals from across the city enjoy it all winter long. You walk in expecting a performance and walk out feeling like you were part of something bigger.
December is one of the busiest months here, and honestly, one of the best times to experience it. These are a few events you can attend:
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The Candlelight Concert in Spokane is a U-District tradition that embodies the holidays. On December 6 and 7, you can listen to classic carols and seasonal pieces performed by Gonzaga’s talented vocal ensemble.
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In the mood for something with a little more groove? A Motown Christmas with Vocalist Kate Skinner and the Spokane Jazz Orchestra is the answer. Soul and festive nostalgia await on December 13.
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Campana Sobre Campana – Christmas in Mexico! brings the warmth of Mexican music to chilly nights. Mariachi, 11 musicians, and 16 folkloric dancers make you forget all about the temperature outside.
Insider Tip: Plan to arrive a little early so you can find your seat and settle in.
While Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center is considered the cornerstone of performances in the U-District, there are many casual places where art and sound seep into the neighborhood. You can stop by No-Li Brewhouse, Spokane (at 1003 East Trent Avenue #170), for the occasional low-key music night, or swing by the Public Library for their community programs.
Scenic Winter Walk in the University District, Spokane
Getting in your step count in this neighborhood is as pleasant in the cold season as it is in the summer. Why? Thanks to (almost) endless places you can get to on foot, you’ll feel the city’s creative heartbeat all around you.
First off, the Gateway Bridge connects you to Spokane’s campuses and overlooks breathtaking skyline views. Along each end of the bridge are two polished-steel sculptures called “Rooted” and “Soaring,” created by local artists Lea Anne Scott Lake and Shani Marchant.
From there, you can segue into portions of the Centennial Trail, Spokane, like the fantastic one starting right at the U-District and flowing west toward Riverfront Park. This path leads you to famous sculptures like You Elegant Fowl by Bill & Karma Simmons (located south of the Spokane Convention Center and adjacent to Spokane Falls Boulevard). Why not discover the entire Sculpture Walk of Spokane? It’s a great way to immerse yourself in the city’s cultural tapestry.
When you explore the streets in and around the University District, Spokane, you’ll find a series of murals that leave everyone impressed. Start with Tom Quinn’s striking piece at Division & Sprague, then drift toward downtown. And when you’re not sure which way to go, the Art Map of the city is your virtual guide.
Cozy Spots for Creative Breaks
Sometimes, the best art is not necessarily found on a wall, but in a cup of coffee, a sketchpad, or the hum of conversation in a neighborhood café or bar. Thomas Hammer Coffee is right on Gonzaga's campus, perfect for a quiet morning or an afternoon reset between galleries. Craving something a little more off the beaten path? Jack & Dan’s at 1226 N Hamilton Street offers a familiar atmosphere, especially when you want to hang out with fellow art enthusiasts. Both places are minutes from the iconic Jundt Art Museum and Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center.
If you’re grabbing a coffee on December 13 at Garbage Goat, Roots, or anywhere in between, make it a mini adventure. Take a short stroll from the U-District to River Park Square and pop into the BrrrZAAR Winter Art Market. It’s free, festive, and full of art just begging to be discovered.
Still wondering how to get the most out of the creative spaces in the University District, Spokane? Honestly, it’s all about living in the moment (and at our apartments). Pop into the Jundt Art Museum on a quiet afternoon, stroll along murals and sculptures, grab a latte at your favorite café, or catch a Candlelight concert at the Myrtle Woldson Performing Arts Center. No matter what your artistic day looks like, the cultural energy of the area is addictive. You’ll want more, and the easiest way to keep that inspiration close is by joining our communities, where the vibrant spirit of the U-District becomes part of your everyday life.