Spokane’s Riverfront Park with kids

Riverfront Park during one of many summer festivals!

Riverfront Park during one of many summer festivals!

507 N. Howard St
Spokane, WA

If you find yourself driving I-90 from Seattle or Idaho’s ski and outdoor country, Spokane’s Riverfront Park is a beautifully appointed greenbelt worthy of a stop. Much more than a simple pit stop, the park spans both sides of the Spokane River and includes a pavilion originally built for the 1974 Expo, amusement rides, an ice skating rink, a Sky Ride gondola, an old fashioned carrousel, a giant red wagon slide, and plenty of grassy slopes, mature trees, and ducks to feed.

Riverfront Park with kids:

Try to grab the 'golden ring' on the carrousel!

Try to grab the ‘golden ring’ on the carrousel!

If the weather isn’t cooperating, try the IMAX theater (schedule listed under ‘Hours and Admission Prices below) or Mobius Kids Children’s Museum, located on the lower level within River Park Square, downtown Spokane’s premiere shopping center.

Date last visited: June 2009

Distance off the interstate: Two minutes off I-90.

Hours and Admission Prices: For the hours and admission prices of the various attractions (which change seasonally), click here. Be sure to ask about all admission options: during the summer months especially, day passes and punch cards can offer the best discounts for families.

Bathrooms: The nicest bathrooms are located within River Park Square on the lower level (through the entrance adjacent to the park). Others are located within the pavilion near the Ice Palace (winter) and carnival rides (summer).

Food Services: Food vendors and concessions abound in the summer months; year round, great options for families can be found in River Park Square. My family’s favorite? The Sawtooth Grill (located on the lower level), where TinkerToys and board games line the a shelf awaiting antsy children.

Website: http://www.spokaneriverfrontpark.com

Phone: 1-800-336-PARK

Directions: From I-90, take exit 281 to merge onto S Division St/US-2 E/US-395 N. Turn left at W Spokane Falls Blvd.

NOTE: Vehicles are not permitted in the park. Parking is available in several lots on the north end. The easiest place to park, however, is in the parking garage at River Park Square. Follow the signs from Spokane Falls Blvd!
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