Not all of us are snow season enthusiasts. And once the temps freeze over, it can be tough to convince oneself that donning boots, gloves and a hat can lead to anything “fun.” While that may sound like an extreme case of winter blues, this time of year calls for some time spent indoors. Even those who count down the days to ski season often need a break from the cold. 

Here are five ideas for how to stay warm while still venturing out of the house this winter. 

Watch and Play

The locally loved Garland Theater shows both new and old films at discounted rates—lending a perfect date idea on a chilly night. Among a short list of today’s film titles, Totally Tubular Tuesdays in January features “Labyrinth” (Jan. 8), “Mrs. Doubtfire” (Jan. 15), “Weird Science” (Jan. 22) and “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire” (Jan. 29). The in-building Bon Bon is an ideal first stop for a cocktail and a snack, or to partake in Monday-night trivia and Wednesday-night bingo.

Read and Sip

If your idea of the perfect weekend afternoon is one spent wrapped in a blanket by a roaring fireplace at home—tea in one hand, book in the other—a trip to Auntie’s Bookstore is in order. The independent bookseller stocks the nation’s bestsellers along with indie picks and works by local authors. Browse the literary selection to your heart’s content; then visit Atticus Coffee & Gifts two blocks west, where you can settle in with a warm beverage to read the first few pages of your favorite find. Don’t forget to pick up a bag of local roast or loose-leaf tea to take home.  

Float Away 

Unwind from the holidays inside a tranquil pod of warm water and Epsom salt. The water—matching your body temperature—seemingly melds with your body, creating a gravity-free sensation, as you float on the surface. Float therapy has been used to help those with PTSD, anxiety and addiction. It’s also the perfect way to calm one’s mind and body for the year ahead. Find a pod to warm up in and float your stresses away at Renew Float Spa in Kendall Yards or at one of Float Spokane’s locations (Division Street and Wellesley Avenue; Liberty Lake).

Get Creative 

Finding outlets for artistic pursuits is no challenge in this city of creatives. Spokane Parks and Recreation Department’s Corbin Art Center offers a myriad of classes geared toward toddlers to adults. Generally taught one day a week—for a single date or up to six consecutive classes—participants can stretch the left side of their brain in classes ranging from caricature drawing to creative memoir writing to portrait photography and more. 

Work it Out 

Whether chasing a New Year’s resolution or simply staying in shape throughout the winter months, sometimes switching up your routine is just what you need to stay motivated. There are plenty of workout classes to get your blood pumping. Break a sweat and burn some calories in a barre class at Bar Method (South Hill), Pure Barre (Spokane Valley) or Spokane Barre (downtown). Take a dance-party-style spin class at The Union (North Spokane and downtown), or work through a timed cardio-strength circuit at Orange Theory (North Spokane and South Hill).