Riverfront Park Spokane Washington
Spokane's vibrant urban park, born from the 1974 World's Fair, offering stunning falls views, family fun, and iconic attractions.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Riverfront Park Spokane Washington
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Spokane's vibrant urban park, born from the 1974 World's Fair, offering stunning falls views, family fun, and iconic attractions.
"A beautiful, well-maintained gem in the heart of downtown Spokane, definitely worth a visit."
Feed the Garbage Goat!
Don't miss feeding the famous Garbage Goat! It's a quirky and fun experience for all ages .
SkyRide for Views
The SkyRide offers spectacular views of Spokane Falls, a must-do for photographers .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spokane Falls SkyRide
Over Spokane Falls
Soar above the roaring Spokane Falls for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the natural wonder.
The Garbage Goat
Near the Carousel
A quirky and beloved park icon, feed this unique goat and enjoy a moment of lighthearted fun.
Centennial Trail
Park perimeter
Ranked as one of the best recreational trails, it's perfect for a scenic stroll or bike ride.
Radio Flyer Wagon Slide
Playground area
A giant, iconic red wagon slide that's a hit with kids and adults alike for a fun photo op.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Attractions
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Feed the Garbage Goat!
Don't miss feeding the famous Garbage Goat! It's a quirky and fun experience for all ages.
SkyRide for Views
The SkyRide offers spectacular views of Spokane Falls, a must-do for photographers.
Daylight Hours Recommended
Visit during daylight for the best experience; evening can bring a noticeable presence of homelessness.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The park boasts a unique playground and the giant Radio Flyer wagon slide, perfect for families.
Tips
from all over the internet
Feed the Garbage Goat!
Don't miss feeding the famous Garbage Goat! It's a quirky and fun experience for all ages.
SkyRide for Views
The SkyRide offers spectacular views of Spokane Falls, a must-do for photographers.
Daylight Hours Recommended
Visit during daylight for the best experience; evening can bring a noticeable presence of homelessness.
Kid-Friendly Fun
The park boasts a unique playground and the giant Radio Flyer wagon slide, perfect for families.
Centennial Trail Access
Easily access the nationally ranked Centennial Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride.
Parking Tips
Avoid mall parking if possible; explore other nearby options for better accessibility.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Riverfront Park is a beautifully maintained urban oasis, lauded for its stunning Spokane Falls views, family-friendly attractions like the unique playground and wagon slide, and the iconic Garbage Goat. Visitors appreciate the park's cleanliness and the accessibility of the Centennial Trail. However, some note that the park's atmosphere can change after dark, with a more noticeable presence of homelessness.
"Beautiful Park! Thoroughly enjoyed walking through and taking in all the beautiful scenery. Very clean and well maintained. So much to see and do. Fun for kids! Our kids loved the unique playground and red wagon slide. Keep your eye out for yellow bellied marmots on the rocky areas near the river. They are so cute!"
Stacie Pales
"I was there May 10, 2025 for my niece’s wedding later in the day. The waterfalls are just gorgeous and the views there are spectacular. I walked around as much as I could for two hours before I had to leave and go to the wedding."
Carolyn Whelchel
"What a neat area! There was beautiful scenery with the clock tower, bridges, and falls. There was a handicap friendly park with a ton of stimulating sensory activities and equipment with bathrooms right there for the kiddos! A huge radio flyer slide, and little blocks yo climb, make great photo opportunities. For extra cost, kids (or kids at heart) can ride pedal bikes through the park, ride the carousel, visit the garbage goat, or ride the gondolas to get a spectacular views of the falls!
And the park Rangers go above and beyond to make sure people are safe and have a great experience. After a negative experience with our special needs daughter getting mistreated, they stepped in and helped turn our day around!
10/10 recommend!!"
Whitley
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Riverfront Park is centrally located in downtown Spokane, making it easily accessible. Many visitors walk or bike to the park from nearby hotels. Public transportation options are also available. If driving, be mindful of parking availability, especially during peak times or events.
Yes, there are several parking options near Riverfront Park. Garages and street parking are available in the downtown area. Some visitors suggest avoiding mall parking if possible for better accessibility.
Absolutely! Riverfront Park is connected to the Centennial Trail, making it a great destination for cyclists and scooter riders. You can also find bike and scooter rentals in the area.
Riverfront Park is designed to be accessible, with paved paths and accessible attractions. The playground area also features sensory activities and equipment suitable for children with special needs.
You can explore Riverfront Park on foot, by bike, or by using the park's attractions like the SkyRide. Walking allows you to fully appreciate the scenery and discover hidden gems.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Riverfront Park itself is free to enter and explore. However, individual attractions within the park, such as the SkyRide, Carousel, and Garbage Goat feeding, require separate tickets.
Ticket prices vary for each attraction. It's recommended to check the official Riverfront Park website for the most up-to-date pricing for the SkyRide, Carousel, and other activities. Package deals may be available.
Yes, you can typically purchase tickets for Riverfront Park attractions online through the park's official website. This is often the most convenient way to secure your spot, especially during busy periods.
Riverfront Park is generally open year-round, but the operating hours for specific attractions can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Riverfront Park website for the most current hours of operation for each attraction.
Riverfront Park frequently hosts a variety of events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, especially during the summer. Keep an eye on the park's event calendar for upcoming activities.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Don't miss the Spokane Falls SkyRide for incredible views, the iconic Garbage Goat, the historic Carousel, and the giant Radio Flyer wagon slide. The Centennial Trail is also a highlight.
Absolutely! Riverfront Park is very family-friendly, with a unique playground, the wagon slide, and interactive attractions like the Garbage Goat and Carousel that kids adore.
Expect stunning views of Spokane Falls, the Spokane River, lush greenery, and the iconic clock tower. The park offers a beautiful urban oasis with natural beauty.
While there might be some concessions or food vendors within the park, especially during events, downtown Spokane offers a wide array of dining options just a short walk away.
Yes, Riverfront Park is incredibly photogenic! The waterfalls, clock tower, carousel, and scenic river views provide endless opportunities for stunning photos.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The SkyRide offers unparalleled aerial views of Spokane Falls. The area around the falls and the bridges provide dramatic perspectives. The clock tower and carousel also make for classic shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful soft light. Midday can be harsh, but the mist from the falls can create interesting effects. Check for any light shows at the pavilion in the evenings.
Capture the quirky charm of the Garbage Goat, the fun of the Radio Flyer wagon slide, and the historic beauty of the Carousel. The contrast between urban elements and natural falls is also a great subject.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive falls and park landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on the clock tower or wildlife. A tripod can help with low-light shots or capturing the falls' motion.
Drone usage is typically restricted in city parks to ensure safety and the enjoyment of all visitors. It's best to check the specific regulations for Riverfront Park and Spokane city ordinances before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The park's open spaces and scenic beauty also provide plenty of room for kids to run and play safely.🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
+1 Pack a picnic to enjoy by the river, and focus your spending on one or two key attractions like the SkyRide for incredible views, or the Carousel for a classic experience.📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The iconic clock tower, the historic Carousel, and the dramatic riverfront scenery offer diverse subjects. Aim for golden hour for the most flattering light, and don't forget to capture the unique charm of the Garbage Goat.+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Legacy of Transformation: From World's Fair to Urban Oasis
The park has undergone significant renovations, most recently to enhance its appeal and functionality for residents and visitors alike. These updates have preserved its historic charm while introducing modern amenities and attractions, ensuring it remains a central hub for recreation and celebration in Spokane. The park's continuous development highlights its importance as a dynamic public space.
+1Today, Riverfront Park stands as a beloved icon, recognized nationally for its riverwalk and recreational trails.
It's a place where history meets the present, offering a unique experience that captures the essence of Spokane's identity and its connection to the Spokane River and Falls.Navigating Riverfront Park: Attractions and Activities
+1 For a touch of whimsy, visitors can feed the famous Garbage Goat, a beloved park mascot.+1 The historic Carousel provides a nostalgic ride, while the giant Radio Flyer wagon slide is a guaranteed hit with children and the young at heart.Beyond these iconic features, the park is a gateway to the Centennial Trail, a nationally recognized recreational path perfect for walking, jogging, or biking.
+1 The park also boasts a unique, handicap-friendly playground with sensory activities, ensuring inclusivity for all children.It's worth noting that while the park is free to enter, many of these popular attractions require separate tickets. Planning which activities you want to experience in advance can help manage your time and budget effectively.
Community and Safety in Riverfront Park
The park's rangers are dedicated to ensuring a positive experience for visitors, with some reviews highlighting their efforts to assist guests, even in challenging situations.However, as with many urban parks, it's advisable to be aware of your surroundings, particularly as daylight fades. Some visitors have noted an increased presence of homelessness and drug activity in the evenings, which can impact the overall feel of the park after dark.
Despite these considerations, the overwhelming sentiment is that Riverfront Park is a well-maintained gem that offers immense value to the city. By visiting during daylight hours and staying aware, most visitors have a fantastic and memorable experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit