Spokane, located in the picturesque realms of Eastern Washington, is the inclusive destination for lively travelers. The once small city has burgeoned into a dynamic natural and cultural Mecca that offers visitors an exciting palette of activities and events all through its four distinct seasons.

Gardens and Parks

Spokane’s Riverfront Park is a crown achievement in park planning. With its beautifully lush, landscaped and architecturally aesthetic commons, the park provides a perfect environment to stroll and relax.

The 100-acre park meanders past the lovely cascading Spokane Falls and features a bevy of fun sites and activities to explore as well; such as the latest IMAX show or a vortex of spinning amusement rides, train tours, mini-golf, arcade games, the paved Centennial Trail, a world-class ice arena in winter and the Scenic Spokane Falls Skyride.

Open year-round, the large-windowed Skyride carries passengers above the Southeast quadrant of the park, offering stunning and panoramic views of the falls and city. Visitors will find the gorgeous, covered and operational 1909 antique Loof Carousel situated on the park’s south end. With its carnival music faintly drifting on the breeze, the whirling, brightly hued horses, with their authentic horsehair tails, reflect a simpler and romantic era. It’s charming to see all ages flock to this traditional amusement ride and bear the same smiles that seem to mirror the happy child within.

Spokane possesses several magnificent gardens/parks located on the South Hill, starting a just few blocks from the downtown area. Forgotten and obscured by nature, the Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens were rediscovered in 1998 from the Victorian era. These lovely, terraced perennial gardens were originally created in the 1800s by two prominent families, Frank Rockwood and Sarah Frances Sherlock Moore; and later, Senator George and Bertha Dreher Turner.

Before the garden’s creation, the Moores hired famed Spokane architect Kirtland Cutter to design their impressive, multi-styled architectural home that featured sweeping city views. Although the house was eventually demolished in 1940, it served as the dais for the garden’s conception.

The Turners purchased the house and grounds in 1896 and continued to add to the terraced gardens located behind the eminent home. It was at this period that Mrs. Turner and hired designers created one of the largest perennial gardens in the northwest with a breath-taking rose arbor, teahouse, pond and pergola, water features, conservatory and greenhouses. Old photos taken of Mrs. Tuner in her verdant habitat were duplicated and fashioned onto small podiums around the gardens. It is within these old-fashioned images that her passion about her garden is portrayed and they show where her heart belonged.

Today, the restored heritage gardens are an enchanting site to visit and each little crest, stone path and turn reveal a secret, gurgling fountain or reflection pond that echo from a Victorian past. For additional information, visit Spokane Parks

Manito Park, designed by the famous Olmstead brothers (creators of Central Park), draws comparisons to Canada’s illustrious Butchart Gardens. Manito’s 90 acres may not be as densely populated with flora as Butchart; however, the romantic enticement of the sunken European Renaissance Garden, Nishinomiya Japanese Garden and the elegant Gaiser conservatory draws garden enthusiasts from around the globe. There are several additional sublimely landscaped garden themes located within the park and all coincide with a wonderful picnic area, tennis courts, duck pond, drive-loop and softball field as well.

Manito Park, open year-round and free of charge, is definitely one of Spokane’s grandest gems. It’s a place where contemplation and the art of formal gardening adds to the appreciation of one’s spirit.

Outdoor Recreation: Biking and kayaking

Spokane’s moniker Near Nature, Near Perfect is a true designation. Rarely does a city combine chic metro/cultural with abundant green spaces and fantastic outdoor recreation.

The Spokane River Centennial Trail is a fertile 37-mile pathway that starts at Sontag Park, meanders along the Spokane River, and continues past the Idaho border. The Centennial trail features several segments that are relatively flat and are perfect for enjoying the scenic beauty along the trail. There is even a city bike path taking a circuitous route of the downtown area. If you would like to tour a large or small segment of the trail but don’t want to bring your own bike, Silver Bike Tours is a wonderful and reputable company that offers guided and self-guided bike tours at a reasonable price. With a patient, relaxed and professional staff, this company caters to beginners or seasoned cyclists. For additional information on the Centennial River Trail, call 509-624-7188.

The popular sport of kayaking is predominant in Spokane, especially with its many rivers that flow through abundant natural and wildlife areas. One of the absolutely best kayak trips within close proximity to the city (about 25 min.) is located on the Little Spokane River. Put in (kayak) by the St. Georges School and let the gentle, crystal-clear water from an aquifer drift you downstream with birdsong and lush greenery, while dangling your foot in the cool river. If serenity had an occupation, this would be it! This area is also second in the country with a bird diversity of 180 different species.

This particular stretch of river is easy to navigate, great for beginners and fun enough for serious kayakers. The river averages about two feet, but is no deeper than three feet in mid-summer. It takes about an hour-and-half before you reach Painted Rocks, a good place for taking out your kayak. Visitors can bring their own kayak, rent one from a local REI, or contact the Spokane Parks and Recreation if a guided trip is desired. The parks department provides weekly individual or group trips and will even pick you up at your hotel and shuttle you to the river. Their kayak rentals are wonderfully inexpensive and part of the tour cost. For additional information, visit SpokaneParks.org or call, 509-25-6200.

Read next page Spokane, Washington: Downtown pleasures

---

Photos courtesy of Patrice Raplee.