The weather doesn’t have to be good to enjoy the great outdoor activities that Spokane has to offer, although it does make them even better.
The city is known for being full of green areas. Let’s run through some of the best parks and recreational activities for you to enjoy in Spokane.
Manito Park
Spanning 90 acres, Manito Park is home to some of Washington’s most diverse gardens. This is the place to go if you want to spend time in the great outdoors while in the Spokane area.
The Nishinomiya Japanese Garden is a peaceful area at the park’s entrance. Sit by the water and watch the koi carp, or feed them from the bridge amid the flora that changes color season by season.
There are playgrounds, paths, a conservatory, and a duck pond along the way. Visiting the well-landscaped park area is a great way to spend a day. It is no wonder that over 150,000 people stop by every year.
Riverfront Park
This 100-acre park was created in 1974 for the World Expo and has been enjoyed by locals and tourists alike ever since. You will find paths to explore, fountains to sit by, an amphitheater, and a lot more.
On Tuesday nights, you can find many Spokane food trucks in the area. The lush green areas are popular places to sit and eat lunch and everything is overlooked by the charming Great Northern Clocktower.
Go for a walk along the river or try one of the many activities close by, such as the iMax theater, mini golf, and the new SkyRide. Riverfront Park is even home to an ice rink in the winter months.
The park is also the place to view Spokane Falls which was once the actual name of the city itself. These falls are made up of upper and lower waterfalls and a dam. They remain one of the go-to spots in Spokane for spectacular photos and relaxing walks. With so much to do, Riverfront Park is one of the best parks in the Washington area.
Finch Arboretum
Enclosed trails guide you around this vast landscape that will take a large portion of your day to explore. In fact, at the end of a day walking, there will still be many parts you haven’t seen.
At the entrance, you will find a creek and a pond with a variety of tree species. It is less crowded than the likes of Riverfront Park because there are fewer recreational activities, but don’t let that put you off. Instead, it should be a reason to get into nature and relax as you wander around.
Follow the steady incline for fantastic views, and if you are lucky enough to be in the city around October, you will be able to see Finch Arboretum in its full glory as the leaves change color.
River Rafting
On the Spokane River, you can get your pulse racing in the middle of one of the most scenic areas of the city. Take your pick of the guide companies who get you set up and help you enjoy an unforgettable experience as you negotiate the wild waters in a raft.
Golf
Spokane is home to some of the most reputable golf courses in the Northwest. There is a course for every budget and handicap. Some of the most popular courses include The Creek at Qualchan, Downriver Golf Course, Meadowood Golf Course, and Deer Park Golf Course
There is no shortage of options for anyone wishing to get outdoors and explore what Spokane has to offer. Enjoy your recreational time in the Lilac City in some of the best parks in the state of Washington.
