Family Fun Near Spokane, WA

Finding some fun and family-friendly activities to do that interest the entire clan is often a feat. With growing families, likes and dislikes are always in flux and it can be hard to gauge what growing kids will like from one day to the next. Knowing some diverse, exciting, and interactive places to go and things to do can help you bond with your family and build memories the children will cherish long into adulthood. Read on to learn about our list of the top family-friendly attractions near Spokane, Washington.

Spokane Falls

Image via Flickr under CC BY 2.0 by Tracy Hunter

The Spokane Falls waterfall lies in the heart of the city and features two sections: the Lower Falls and the Upper Falls. The cascading waterfalls sit juxtaposed against the city skyline and prove that the beauty of nature is powerful and impressive. A visit to the falls is a great experience for adults and kids of all ages. Getting the family out into nature provides an opportunity to get away from technology and reconnect with each other. Listen to the crescendo of the falls, enjoy the birds flying around, and see how the power of water can have healing effects on your energy.

There are many vantage points to see the waterfalls. The Pedestrian Suspension Bridges are a favorite among locals because you get up close and personal with the falls. Feel the soft mist on your face as you cross the first bridge. Although the bridges sway with weight and wind, they are safe. Be sure to hold any little ones who might initially be intimidated by the sound and size of the falls.

Huntington Park is another favorite location to view the falls. Here you have prime opportunity to take some awesome photos of the falls and even snap a few shots of your family with Spokane Falls as the backdrop. Stop at the Tribal Gathering Place, a plaza surrounded by water and featuring basalt stonework. Huntington Park is at 350 N. Post St. The park is open daily until 11 p.m.

Manito Park and Botanical Gardens

Manito Park and Botanical Gardens is a 90-acre park in Spokane that is located in South Hill neighborhood. The park boasts five gardens, a conservatory, and a duck pond that attract thousands of visitors annually. Established in 1904, this picture perfect park features large trees and a well-trimmed landscape perfect for a memorable photo. Kids can walk the gardens, see the different varieties of plant species, learn about photosynthesis, and walk the stone bridge. Adults marvel at the fabulously kept lawns, flowers, and topiary shrubs.

After the family has taken in the colorful sights of the gardens, the kids can work off extra energy on one of the playgrounds or tour the greenhouse conservatory. Manito Park and Botanical Gardens perfumes the air at 1702 S. Grand Blvd. in Spokane. For more information, call 509-625-6200.

Green Bluff Growers 

Green Bluff Growers, along with the area it encompasses, is a census-designated area in Washington State. This small and charming farming community has a welcoming small-town feel and features unique geographic traits making the soil ideal for dry growing. Green Bluff first started as strawberry growers, and today this gorgeous farmland features something different to do for families each season. You could visit Green Growers four times a year and always find something new and different to do.

This destination offers visitors an old-fashioned farming experience. You can go and pick your own fruit, or buy fresh-picked and seasonal groceries year-round. August is prime time for fresh peaches, while the Apple Fest is featured from September through October. Grab yourself a bushel of fresh Fujis, Granny Smiths, or Jonasgolds. Other fun family activities include hayrides, corn mazes, pony rides, and petting zoos.

You can get to Green Bluff Growers via Highway 2. Turn right on Day Mt. Spokane Road and veer onto Dunn Road. Continue forward until you reach Greenbluff Rd. Green Bluff Growers is at 8110 E. Greenbluff Road, in Mead, Washington. The farm is open year-round but hours vary, so check the website for details. For more information, call 509-238-6242.

Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden

The Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, constructed in 1974, represents the supportive relationship between Spokane and Nishinomiya, a city in Japan. Spend the day with your family in a relaxing setting surrounding by the soothing sound of water and the fresh, inviting atmosphere. You’ll clear your head and provide the kids with a foundation for meditation and the ability to relax.

Situated in Manito Park, the Japanese garden is an oasis within the city. Register for one of the nine tours available, which educate and celebrate the Japanese-Americans and their long history in Spokane. Entry is free. Check the website for details. For more information, or to reserve the garden for your special event, call 509-363-5455.

Historic Flight Museum

The Historic Flight Museum in Spokane features a world-class collection of “airworthy aircraft” spanning 30 years, from 1927 to 1957. Located 15 minutes east of downtown, at Felt’s Field, the museum presents guests the opportunity to tour and view an extensive vintage aircraft collection. Visitors can participate in seminars hosted by the museum and even watch a real aircraft fly on most weekends, weather permitting. Learn about the aircraft backstories and see some cockpits and gauges used in real flight.

The address for the Historic Flight Museum is 5829 E. Rutter Ave. For more information or to learn about renting the museum for your next special event, call 509-535-6000.

So there you have it. Spokane Hyundai has just shared with you our list of the top family fun things to do and places to visit near Spokane, Washington. The next time you need to keep your little ones entertained and engaged, try checking out one of these suggestions. What you do think of our list? Did we miss your favorite family-friendly past-time near Spokane? If we did, let us know. Leave a message and we’ll be happy to check out your suggestions.