Free Family Activities in Spokane, WA for Kids — Spokane, WA

Quick Answer

Spokane offers numerous free activities for families, including parks, community events, and cultural experiences. Enjoy exploring the city's natural beauty and engaging attractions without spending a dime.

Who This Guide Is For

This guide is for families living in or visiting Spokane, WA, who are looking for budget-friendly activities to enjoy with their children. Whether you have toddlers, school-aged kids, or teenagers, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained without breaking the bank.

Neighborhoods Mentioned in This Guide

In Spokane, several neighborhoods offer unique opportunities for family fun. This guide highlights activities in:

• Perry District
• East Central
• South Hill
• Browne's Addition
• Downtown
• East Side
• South Side
• West Side
• North Side

Parks and Outdoor Activities

Spokane is home to many beautiful parks and outdoor spaces that provide excellent opportunities for families to enjoy nature and physical activity. Here are some notable options:

Riverfront Park

Located in the heart of Downtown Spokane, Riverfront Park is a sprawling green space that offers numerous activities for families. You can stroll along the Spokane River, enjoy the scenic views, or let the kids play in the playground. In the summer, the park often hosts free events, concerts, and festivals.

Manito Park

Manito Park on the South Hill is another fantastic option for families. With its beautiful gardens, walking paths, and playgrounds, it’s a perfect spot for a family picnic. The park also features a duck pond, where children can feed the ducks and enjoy watching them swim.

Coeur d'Alene Park

Situated in the Browne's Addition neighborhood, Coeur d'Alene Park is a lovely community park that has a playground and plenty of open space for kids to run around. It’s a great spot for a family outing, especially during warmer months when you can enjoy the outdoors.

Riverside State Park

A short drive from the city, Riverside State Park offers extensive trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Families can explore the park's natural beauty while enjoying a picnic or a day of outdoor adventure. The park also features several areas for fishing and water activities.

Cultural Experiences

Spokane is rich in culture and history, and there are several free experiences that families can enjoy together.

Spokane Public Library

The Spokane Public Library offers a variety of free programs for children, including storytime, crafts, and educational workshops. It's a great way to encourage a love of reading and learning in your children while participating in community activities.

Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture

While some exhibits may have a fee, the Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture often hosts free community days and events. Check their calendar for opportunities to explore art and culture with your family without spending money.

First Friday Art Walk

On the first Friday of each month, Spokane's Downtown hosts an Art Walk where local galleries and studios open their doors to the public. Families can explore the art scene, meet local artists, and enjoy a night of creativity. This event is free and suitable for all ages.

Community Festivals and Events

Throughout the year, Spokane hosts various community festivals and events that are free to attend. From the Lilac Festival to the Spokane County Interstate Fair, these events often include activities for kids, live entertainment, and food vendors. Check local listings for upcoming events during your visit.

Educational Activities

Engaging in educational activities can be both fun and free. Here are some options in Spokane:

Spokane County Environmental Services

The Spokane County Environmental Services offers free educational programs and tours for families interested in learning about local ecology and sustainability. These programs often include hands-on activities that make learning enjoyable for kids.

The Steam Plant

While primarily a historical site, the Steam Plant offers free tours that educate families about Spokane’s industrial history. Kids will enjoy seeing the old machinery and learning about how the plant operated.

Local Farmers Markets

Visiting a local farmers market can be a fun and educational experience for kids. Spokane has several markets throughout the week, where families can learn about local produce, meet farmers, and even participate in cooking demonstrations. It's a great way to teach kids about healthy eating and supporting local businesses.

Neighborhood Breakdown

Each neighborhood in Spokane has its own unique charm and offerings for families looking for free activities:

Perry District

• Perry District Park: A community park with a playground, picnic areas, and sports fields.
• Local Events: Check for seasonal events and activities hosted by community organizations.

East Central

• Liberty Park: Features a playground, walking paths, and open spaces for family activities.
• Community Center: Often hosts free family events and workshops.

South Hill

• Manito Park: Beautiful gardens and walking trails, perfect for family outings.
• Free Outdoor Movies: Look for summer movie nights in local parks.

Browne's Addition

• Coeur d'Alene Park: A community park with a playground and open space.
• Art Walk: Monthly event showcasing local art and culture.

Downtown

• Riverfront Park: Central location for outdoor activities and community events.
• Public Library: Hosts free children’s programs and events.

East Side

• Centennial Trail: Great for biking and walking with the family along the Spokane River.
• Community Events: Keep an eye out for seasonal festivals.

South Side

• Splash Pads: Some parks feature free splash pads, perfect for cooling off in summer.
• Local Parks: Explore various parks with playgrounds and sports facilities.

West Side

• Parks and Trails: Enjoy the natural beauty of the west side with trails and parks for hiking.
• Community Gatherings: Local neighborhoods often host free events.

North Side

• Northwest Museum of Arts and Culture: Look out for free community days.
• Parks: Visit local parks that have playgrounds and open spaces for kids.

By exploring these neighborhoods, families can discover a variety of free activities that cater to different interests and age groups, ensuring a fun and enriching experience throughout Spokane.

Neighborhoods to Explore in Spokane

• [family fit in Perry District](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/perry-district)
• [living in East Central](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/east-central)
• [South Hill neighborhood guide](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/south-hill)
• [Browne's Addition neighborhood guide](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/brownes-addition)
• [Downtown neighborhood guide](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/downtown)
• [family fit in East Side](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/east-side)
• [living in South Side](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/south-side)
• [West Side neighborhood guide](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/west-side)
• [family fit in North Side](/wa/spokane/neighborhoods/north-side)

Related Guides for Spokane

• [Things to Do in Spokane With Kids](/wa/spokane/guides/things-to-do-in-spokane-with-kids)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Spokane for Retirees](/wa/spokane/guides/best-neighborhoods-spokane-retirees)
• [Best Neighborhoods in Spokane for First-Time Movers](/wa/spokane/guides/best-neighborhoods-spokane-first-time-movers)
• [Best Neighborhoods Near Downtown Spokane](/wa/spokane/guides/spokane-neighborhoods-near-downtown)
• [Best Walkable Neighborhoods in Spokane](/wa/spokane/guides/spokane-walkable-neighborhoods)
• [Most Affordable Neighborhoods in Spokane](/wa/spokane/guides/affordable-neighborhoods-spokane-wa)

Helpful Spokane Tools

• [Get your Spokane CityFit Report](/wa/spokane/cityfit-report)
• [Spokane City Guide hub](/wa/spokane)
• [All Spokane guides](/wa/spokane/guides)
• [Events in Spokane](/wa/spokane/events)
• [Moving to Spokane](/wa/spokane/move-in)