Spokane’s Best Splash Pads: Soak Up the Rest of Summer

Summer always seems to fly by in Spokane. One minute we’re celebrating the Fourth of July, and the next we’re wondering how school can possibly be right around the corner.

But we’re not done yet.

There are still plenty of warm afternoons ahead, and Spokane’s splash pads are one of the easiest ways to squeeze a little more fun out of summer. Pack some snacks, grab the sunscreen and towels, and let the kids get completely soaked while you enjoy one of those beautiful Spokane summer days we wait all year for.

One quick note before we jump into the list: I’ve temporarily removed a few splash pads from this guide that are currently in or near wildfire evacuation areas. As conditions change, I’ll add them back. If you’re heading any distance from home, it’s always a good idea to check the current SREC evacuation map first.

Now, on to the fun.

Downtown Spokane

Rotary Fountain

507 N. Howard St.

If you want to turn splash-pad time into a full afternoon downtown, the Rotary Fountain at Riverfront Park is hard to beat.

Kids can run through the fountains, and when everyone needs a break, you’re already in the middle of Riverfront Park with plenty more to explore. Grab a treat, walk along the river or just find a shady spot and enjoy the afternoon.

Ice Age Floods Playground Splash Pad

832 N. Howard St.

This is another Riverfront Park favorite, especially if your kids like a little more adventure with their water play.

The Ice Age Floods Playground combines climbing, exploring and splashing, so don’t expect anyone to stay dry for long.

South Hill Favorites

Manito Park

Upper Manito – E. 25th Ave. & S. Tekoa Ave.

Manito is one of those places where you can easily spend much more time than you planned.

Let the kids cool off at the splash pad, then wander through the gardens, find some shade under the trees or bring a picnic and make an afternoon of it.

If we were making a Spokane summer bucket list, Manito would definitely be on it.

Thornton Murphy Park

3105 E. 27th Ave.

Thornton Murphy is a great neighborhood option when you want something simple: water, room to play and an easy summer afternoon.

It’s especially nice for younger kids who don’t need a giant attraction to have a great time. Give them water spraying out of the ground and they’re usually pretty happy.

Underhill Park

2910 E. Hartson Ave.

Underhill gives you a splash pad, playground and plenty of room for kids to move.

Bring a few snacks and towels and you’ve got an inexpensive afternoon outing without needing to plan much of anything.

Grant Park

1100 E. 9th Ave.

Grant Park is another easy neighborhood stop for cooling down on a hot day.

Sometimes the best summer memories aren’t the big planned adventures. They’re the afternoons when you decide at the last minute to grab the kids and head to the park.

More Spokane Splash Pads to Explore

If you’re looking for something close to your neighborhood, there are several more splash pads around Spokane worth checking out:

Chief Garry Park – 2515 E. Sinto Ave.
Coeur d’Alene Park – 2195 W. 2nd Ave.
Grandview Park – 17th Ave. & D St.
Mission Park – 1208 E. Mission Ave.
Nevada Park – 3933 E. Courtland Ave.

Pick one close to home or choose a park you haven’t visited before and make it a mini Spokane adventure.

Make the Most of These Last Summer Days

There’s something about August in Spokane that makes you want to hold onto summer just a little longer.

The evenings are still warm. The kids can still stay up a little later. Dinner can still be a picnic at the park. And there’s still time to say, “Let’s go do something,” without needing an elaborate plan.

That’s what makes our neighborhood splash pads so great.

They’re free, they’re easy and they give families an excuse to get outside together.

Most Spokane splash pads normally operate daily from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. during the summer season. Hours and availability can change, so it’s worth checking the City of Spokane’s current splash pad information before heading out.

City of Spokane Aquatics Hotline: 509-625-6960