Where To Play This January in Seattle: Events, Dining & Local Picks

While the holiday lights fade and winter deepens, Seattle offers no shortage of reasons to bundle up and step out. January is the perfect time to embrace the Emerald City’s coziest side. Whether you’re a visitor or local, here’s where to eat, stay, and play all month long.

🟢 Where To Eat

Canlis – Queen Anne

Seattle’s legendary fine dining destination is at its most magical in winter, with panoramic views of Lake Union and a seasonally shifting tasting menu that celebrates the Pacific Northwest. Don’t miss their iconic soufflé and impeccable wine pairings.
canlis.com | 2576 Aurora Ave N

Marination Ma Kai – West Seattle

Hop the water taxi to this beachfront favorite and warm up with kalbi beef tacos and spicy kimchi fried rice. Their heated patio delivers sweeping Elliott Bay views — even better with a boozy slushie in hand.
marinationmobile.com | 1660 Harbor Ave SW

Photo: marinationmobile.com

Spinasse – Capitol Hill

For those chasing cozy, few places match Spinasse’s rustic Piedmontese fare. Handmade tajarin, a wood-paneled dining room, and a killer Northern Italian wine list make this a perennial winter go-to.
spinasse.com | 1531 14th Ave

🔵 Where To Stay

Lotte Hotel Seattle – Downtown

Sleek luxury meets Art Deco glam at Lotte, where floor-to-ceiling views and Le Spa de l’hôtel offer five-star tranquility. Start your evening with cocktails at Charlotte Restaurant & Lounge, perched on the 16th floor.
lottehotel.com | 809 5th Ave

Photo: www.lottehotelseattle.com

Hotel Theodore – Downtown

A tribute to Pacific Northwest makers and adventurers, this boutique stay features curated local art, in-room turntables, and access to nearby creative co-working spaces — ideal for workcations.
hoteltheodore.com | 1531 7th Ave

W Bellevue – Bellevue

Across Lake Washington but just minutes away, W Bellevue blends urban edge with lakeside calm.
W Bellevue

🟡 Where To Play

Seattle Retro Fest – Various Venues, Mid-January

Turn back the dial with this multi-day celebration of all things vintage. From vinyl pop-ups and ‘80s dance nights to retro fashion markets and analog photography exhibits, Seattle Retro Fest delivers a citywide nostalgia trip with a modern twist. 
harefest.com

Seattle Travel & Adventure Show – Seattle Convention Center, January 10–11

Globetrotters, assemble. This immersive two-day event features expert panels, travel workshops, and exhibitors from top global destinations — plus gear demos and trip giveaways. Dream, plan, and book your next adventure, all in one place.
travelshows.com