Discovering Manito Park
Manito Park, located in the heart of Spokane, Washington, is a 90-acre lush botanical haven.
Manito Park is a must-visit destination for tourists.
This guide will provide all the information you need to make the most of your visit to this beautiful park.
Manito Park is a family favorite. There’s something for everyone.
History of Manito Park
Manito Park was established as a public park in 1904.
Over the decades, the park has evolved, with significant contributions from renowned landscape architects and horticulturists.
Today, it’s a jewel in Spokane, drawing locals and tourists to its picturesque grounds.
Main attractions
Manito Park is home to several distinct gardens and attractions, each offering its own unique charm and beauty.
Duncan Garden
Duncan Garden is a formal European-style garden featuring symmetrical flower beds, manicured lawns, and a central fountain.
Designed in the early 20th century, this garden is particularly stunning during the summer months when the flower beds are in full bloom with a riot of colors.
The geometric layout and meticulously maintained flower beds make it a popular spot for photography and strolls.
I enjoy visiting in the winter and enjoying the quiet. You can appreciate the structure of this garden when the flowers are dormant. But of course, it’s stunning in full bloom.
Japanese Garden
The Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, named after Spokane’s sister city in Japan, is a serene oasis within Manito Park.
This garden showcases traditional Japanese landscaping elements such as a koi pond, waterfall, and meticulously pruned trees and shrubs.
Rose Hill
Rose Hill is a must-see for rose enthusiasts.
This garden boasts over 1,500 rose bushes representing various species and hybrids.
Blooming from late spring through fall, Rose Hill smells as good as it looks.
The garden also serves as a testing ground for new rose varieties, making it an ever-evolving attraction.
All the roses are labeled, making this a great place to make a wish list.
Just behind the pergola in the photo below, you’ll find a picnic table with a gorgeous view. It’s five-star dining at a fraction of the price😉.
Lilac Garden
Spokane is known as the “Lilac City,” and the Lilac Garden at Manito Park celebrates this designation.
Featuring many lilac varieties, the garden bursts into bloom in late spring, filling the air with sweet fragrance.
The Lilac Garden is a favorite for both locals and visitors, especially during the Spokane Lilac Festival.
Ferris Perennial Garden
The Ferris Perennial Garden offers a beautiful array of perennial flowers and plants that bloom throughout the growing season.
This garden is designed to showcase the diversity and beauty of perennial plants, inspiring gardeners and providing a four-season experience for visitors.
The garden aims to have something in bloom every day of the year.
We love to visit the perennial garden several times a year. There’s always something to discover.
Gaiser Conservatory
The Conservatory is packed with delicate, heat-loving plants. The display changes seasonally.
Usually open from 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. daily. Closed Wednesdays.
Activities and experiences
Manito Park offers a variety of activities and experiences that cater to different interests and age groups.
Walking and jogging paths
The park features several walking and jogging paths that wind through its various gardens and natural areas.
These well-maintained paths offer a peaceful setting for exercise and leisurely walks.
Bird watching
Manito Park is a haven for bird watchers, with its diverse habitats attracting a wide range of bird species.
Bring your binoculars and watch for woodpeckers, finches, ducks, and even the occasional hawk.
The park’s varied environments, from open lawns to dense shrubbery, provide excellent opportunities for bird-watching throughout the year.
Don’t miss Mirror Pond and the ducks.
Check out the list on eBird to see a list of birds other enthusiasts have spotted.
Photography
With its stunning gardens and picturesque landscapes, Manito Park is a photographer’s dream.
Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, you’ll find countless opportunities to capture beautiful images.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best lighting conditions, and the changing seasons ensure that there’s always something new to photograph.
Manito is popular for graduation and engagement photos.
Picnicking
Manito Park is an ideal spot for picnicking, with numerous grassy areas and picnic tables available.
Pack a lunch and enjoy a meal surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. The Duncan Garden and the area near Mirror Pond are particularly popular picnic spots, offering both shade and views.
Dining
Park Bench Cafe is located near the perennial garden. It’s open from late May to September, offering lunch items.
Seasonal highlights
Each season brings its own unique charm to Manito Park, making it a year-round destination.
There’s a short behind-the-scenes video about Manito Gardens. It’s interesting.
Behind the Scenes at Manito Park
Spring
Spring is a magical time at Manito Park, as the gardens come to life with blooms.
The Lilac Garden and Rose Hill are particularly stunning, and the fresh greenery provides a perfect backdrop for a springtime visit.
The park’s flowering trees, including cherry blossoms and magnolias, add to the seasonal beauty.
Summer
Summer is peak season for Manito Park, with all the gardens in full bloom.
The warm weather and long days make it an ideal time for picnics, walks, and outdoor activities.
Duncan Garden is at its most colorful, and the Japanese Garden offers a cool, shaded retreat.
During the heat of summer, Manito is a cool(er) refuge. There are so many shady spots to relax and picnic.
Fall
Fall brings a riot of colors to Manito Park as the leaves change.
The park’s trees and shrubs display brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a picturesque setting for autumn walks.
The cooler temperatures and crisp air make it a pleasant time to explore the gardens and enjoy the seasonal beauty.
This is my favorite time to visit the park. The weather is cool, and the fall colors (especially in the Japanese Garden) are stunning.
Winter
Even in winter, Manito Park has its own special charm.
The snow-covered gardens and trees create a serene, almost magical landscape.
The park is less crowded during this time, offering a peaceful retreat. Bundle up and take a walk to enjoy the winter scenery and the tranquility of the season.
Our family enjoys having coffee and a treat at Rockwood Bakery (a block away) and then walking around the pond – in the snow.
Visitor information
Hours and admission
Manito Park is open daily.
Admission to the park and its gardens is free.
How to get there
Manito Park is located at:
1702 S. Grand Blvd., Spokane, WA
It’s easily accessible by car, with ample parking available at various points around the park.
Facilities and amenities
Manito Park offers a range of facilities and amenities to enhance your visit:
- Restrooms: Available near the main entrances and throughout the park.
- Picnic areas: Equipped with tables and benches.
- Playground: There’s an upper and lower playground area for children.
- Benches and seating: Located throughout the park for resting and enjoying the views.
Tips for visitors
- Plan ahead
Check the weather forecast and plan your visit accordingly. Spring and summer are the most popular times, so visiting early in the day can help you avoid crowds. - Wear comfortable shoes
The park is large, and comfortable footwear will make it easier to explore all the gardens and paths. Some paths are wood chips, and some are uneven. - Bring a camera
You’ll want to capture the beauty of the gardens, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone. - Pack a picnic
Enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. There are plenty of scenic spots perfect for picnicking. - Visit the Conservatory
The Gaiser Conservatory is home to various exotic plants and is especially beautiful during the holiday season when it’s decorated with lights and festive displays. - Check for events
Manito Park hosts various events and activities throughout the year. Check the park’s website or local listings for information on any special events during your visit
2024 Under the Trees Concert Series (scroll down to find the schedule).
Friends of Manito Plant Sales, Art Festival, Holiday Lights
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