Edwidge Woldson Park
Edwidge Woldson Park offers breathtaking Spokane views and the charm of historic, restored gardens on the South Hill.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour views are spectacular
Edwidge Woldson Park
Best Time
Golden hour views are spectacular
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Edwidge Woldson Park offers breathtaking Spokane views and the charm of historic, restored gardens on the South Hill.
"Sweeping panoramas of downtown Spokane framed by distant peaks—especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and unpaved steps are common. Good footwear is essential for exploring the park and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are a highlight. Don't forget your camera for stunning sunrise and sunset shots. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Spokane Views
Overlook along W Cliff Drive
Breathtaking vistas of downtown Spokane and distant peaks, especially magical at sunrise and sunset.
Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens
Adjacent to the park
Step into a restored 1889 garden with rose beds, a tea house, and historic stone terraces.
Historic Castle Tower
Within the park
A charming, small castle tower that sparks imagination and offers a unique spot for photos.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Climb for Views
Discover Hidden Historical Gems
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and unpaved steps are common. Good footwear is essential for exploring the park and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are a highlight. Don't forget your camera for stunning sunrise and sunset shots.
🌳 Explore the Gardens
The Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens are a must-see. Discover their history and beauty, especially in bloom. :seedling:
⚠️ Use Caution on Trails
Some trails can be rough and narrow. Be mindful of your footing, especially if you have balance issues. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Steep paths and unpaved steps are common. Good footwear is essential for exploring the park and gardens. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic city views are a highlight. Don't forget your camera for stunning sunrise and sunset shots.
🌳 Explore the Gardens
The Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens are a must-see. Discover their history and beauty, especially in bloom. :seedling:
⚠️ Use Caution on Trails
Some trails can be rough and narrow. Be mindful of your footing, especially if you have balance issues. :warning:
🏰 Find the Castle Tower
Seek out the unique castle tower for a bit of whimsical exploration and photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Edwidge Woldson Park for its stunning panoramic views of Spokane and the beautifully restored Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens, offering a historical escape. However, some note that the park's trails can be rough and unmaintained, and it's not ideal for those with mobility issues or strollers due to steep climbs. +1
"We visited the Moore Turner Heritage gardens. It was a very steep climb up the steps which weren't all paved so make sure you bring some good shoes. Nice view of Spokane at the top. Definitely not stroller friendly."
E M
"Edwidge Woldson Park—formerly Pioneer Park—is one of Spokane’s most cherished urban escapes, perched on South Hill and offering sweeping panoramas of the downtown skyline. Named in honor of Edwidge L. Woldson after a transformative gift in 2010, the park is a blend of scenic beauty, historical richness, and community vitality.
From the moment you arrive at 525 W 7th Ave, you’re greeted by expansive lawns that crown the hill, an ideal spot for laid-back picnics, frisbee sessions, or simply basking in the sun. On one side, manicured flower beds and shaded groves offer a softer, calmer environment perfect for quiet reflection. The best feature, however, is the elevated vantage point: downtown Spokane spreads out below, framed by distant peaks—especially spectacular at sunrise and sunset.
But it’s the Moore‑Turner Heritage Gardens adjoining the park that instill the greatest sense of timeless charm. These Arts & Crafts–style terraces—complete with a rose garden, perennial plantings, tea house, pond, and historic basalt retaining walls—trace their origins to the late 1800s. Abandoned after the 1940s, they were meticulously restored between 2005 and 2007 through dedicated community efforts and funding, including a major gift from Myrtle Woldson honoring her mother Edwidge.
Today, strolling through the gardens feels like stepping back in time: the gentle curves of stone stairways, the scent of old-fashioned roses, the creak of timber pergolas. A casual afternoon wander here"
Brian Crossman
"Very interesting place to learn about some of the history of Spokane. The mansions are reputed to be haunted."
Cate Reinig
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Edwidge Woldson Park is located on Spokane's South Hill at 525 W 7th Ave. It's accessible by car, with parking available near the Corbin Arts Center. Public transport options may also be available; check local transit schedules.
Yes, parking is available, particularly near the Corbin Arts Center, which is a good starting point for exploring the park and its adjacent gardens.
The gardens are adjacent to the park. Access often involves climbing stairs, so be prepared for a bit of a hike.
While there are paths, the park's terrain and steepness might make it more challenging for casual cycling. It's primarily a walking and exploration destination.
Information on public transport routes to the South Hill area should be checked with Spokane's local transit authority for the most up-to-date options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Edwidge Woldson Park and the Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens are free to enter and explore.
As a public park, Edwidge Woldson Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. The gardens follow similar public access hours.
There is no admission fee for the Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens; they are a public amenity.
While there aren't typically scheduled tours, you can explore at your own pace. Community cleanup events are sometimes organized.
Standard park hours apply, typically from dawn to dusk. It's always a good idea to check local park regulations if planning a very early or late visit.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Enjoy stunning city views, explore the historic Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens, discover the castle tower, and relax on the expansive lawns.
The gardens have undergone significant restoration and are generally well-maintained, though some visitors note occasional rough trails.
While kids might enjoy the castle tower and open spaces, the steep climbs and unpaved paths make it less ideal for very young children or strollers.
Expect sweeping panoramas of downtown Spokane, framed by distant mountains. Sunrise and sunset offer particularly spectacular light.
Information on restroom availability can vary. It's advisable to check recent visitor comments or local park resources for current facilities.
📸 📸 Photography
The overlook for city views, the historic Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens with their stone terraces, and the charming castle tower are prime photo locations.
Absolutely! The elevated position provides incredible light for both sunrise and sunset, casting a warm glow over downtown Spokane.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive city views, while a standard zoom can capture details in the gardens and tower.
Generally, personal photography is welcome. For commercial shoots, it's always best to check with the local parks department for any permit requirements.
Drone usage in city parks is often restricted. It's crucial to check Spokane Parks and Recreation regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The open lawns are great for kids to run around. However, be aware that the park's South Hill location means many paths and stairs are steep and unpaved, making it challenging for strollers and very young children. 🚶♀️ Walkers & Hikers
The climb up to the viewpoints is steep, providing a good workout. The Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens also offer lovely, albeit sometimes uneven, paths for exploration. 📸 Photographers
The meticulously restored Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens offer beautiful compositions with their historic architecture and floral displays. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of Edwidge Woldson Park
The park's transformation is a testament to community effort and historical preservation. The adjoining Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens, originally created in the late 1800s, were once abandoned but were meticulously restored between 2005 and 2007. This restoration brought back the charm of Arts & Crafts-style terraces, including a rose garden, tea house, and historic basalt retaining walls, making the park a living piece of Spokane's past.
Visitors often remark on the sense of stepping back in time when exploring the gardens, with their gentle stone stairways and fragrant old-fashioned roses. The park's history is intertwined with the growth of the South Hill, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and historical narrative for all who visit.
Exploring the Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens
As you wander through the gardens, you'll discover a variety of features, including a beautiful rose garden, lush perennial plantings, a charming tea house, and a serene pond. The historic basalt retaining walls add to the timeless ambiance, making it feel like a journey into the past. The gentle curves of stone stairways and the scent of old-fashioned roses create an immersive experience.
Visitors often highlight the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of the restored landscape. It's a perfect spot for quiet contemplation, a leisurely stroll, or simply appreciating the horticultural artistry and historical significance. Remember that access involves some climbing, so wear appropriate footwear.
Photography Opportunities
Beyond the sweeping vistas, the Moore-Turner Heritage Gardens provide a more intimate photographic setting. The restored Arts & Crafts terraces, with their intricate stonework, vibrant floral displays, and charming tea house, offer endless opportunities for capturing beauty and detail. The historic castle tower within the park also presents a unique and whimsical subject, perfect for adding a touch of fantasy to your shots.
When planning your photo session, consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the expansive cityscapes and a macro lens or standard zoom for the detailed beauty of the gardens and architectural elements. The park's varied landscapes ensure a rich portfolio of images, from grand panoramas to delicate floral close-ups.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit