What is the best way to spend a family-friendly weekend in Spokane, WA?
The best way to spend a family-friendly weekend in Spokane, WA includes outdoor adventures, animal encounters, creative & cultural experiences, amusement or play centers and include a seasonal event. I'm listing out options below for all of these categories. Time to dig in. 👇
As a local Spokane real estate agent who represents many families, I love finding fun, affordable, and family-friendly activities around Spokane. Whether you're new to the area or looking for fresh weekend ideas, here’s my curated list of 28+ activities that are perfect for kids—and easy for parents to enjoy.
What are Spokane's family-friendly outdoor adventures?
Riverfront Park – Ride the historic 1909 Looff Carrousel, skate or scoot along the Numerica Skate Ribbon, or take the SkyRide over Spokane Falls. Evening Pavilion Light Shows are magical.
Manito Park – Explore Duncan Gardens, the Gaiser Conservatory, playgrounds, and a seasonal splash pad.
Riverside State Park – Perfect for hiking, biking, and picnicking, with scenic views and a swinging bridge at the Bowl and Pitcher.
Centennial Trail – Stretching along the Spokane River, perfect for biking, walking, or rollerblading
Green Bluff – A collection of family-owned farms offering U-pick produce, hayrides, corn mazes, and seasonal festivals.
Mount Spokane - A prominent peak in Washington’s Selkirk Mountains, offers year-round outdoor recreation from skiing and snowboarding in winter to hiking and mountain biking in the summer.
Are there any animal encounters in Spokane, WA?
Cat Tales Zoological Park – Wildlife sanctuary with close-up experiences with big cats and exotic animals.
The Blue Zoo Aquarium – Interactive touch tanks and marine life exhibits.
SCRAPS – Pet adoption events and volunteer opportunities to teach kids about animal care.
What are the best creative & cultural experiences in Spokane?
Mobius Children’s Museum – Hands-on exhibits exploring science, art, and creativity.
Spokane Valley Heritage Museum – Showcases the rich history of the Spokane Valley through engaging exhibits, artifacts, and photographs that highlight the region’s pioneer roots, agricultural legacy, and community development
Spokane Public Library – Storytimes, craft sessions, and family programs.
Corbin Art Center – Family-friendly art workshops for kids of all ages.
Northwest Museum of Arts & Culture (MAC) – Engaging exhibits and hands-on activities.
Spokane Symphony Family Concerts – Introduce kids to classical music with kid-friendly performances.
What amusement & play centers are in Spokane, WA?
Silverwood Theme Park – Thrilling rides, water slides, and live entertainment about an hour outside Spokane.
Splash Down Waterpark – Water slides, wave pools, and kiddie areas. (Only open in summer)
LaserMaxx Spokane – Indoor laser tag for the whole family.
Flying Squirrel – Indoor trampoline park for high-energy kids.
Wild Walls – Indoor rock-climbing gym offering top-rope, lead climbing, and bouldering routes for all skill levels, set inside a historic downtown building that blends fitness with a unique urban vibe.
Flight 509 – Indoor fun with laser tag, mini bowling, bumper cars, VR and much more.
Wonderland Family Fun Center – Arcade games, mini-golf, laser tag, go-karts, and pizza.
We Play – Indoor playground for kids 6 months to 12 years old, located inside Spokane Valley Mall across from the old Sears, offering a clean, safe space full of play structures, a toddler area, and party/event hosting amenities.
Are there any seasonal, special events in Spokane?
Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes – Visit local farms at Greenbluff in the fall for pumpkin picking, hayrides, and corn mazes.
Holiday Light Displays – Drive through Manito Park, walk through Cowley Park or Riverfront Park or stroll through the indoor Northwest Winterfest during the holidays for light displays.
Farmers Markets – The Browne's Addition market offers local produce, crafts, and live music make for a fun daytime outing. There is also the Kendall Yards Night Market, Perry Street Market (Thursdays) and more!
Related: Green Bluff Neighborhood Page
What are the best tips for families on a weekend trip to Spokane, WA?
Check websites for seasonal programming, special exhibits, or summer camps.
Explore Spokane neighborhoods to uncover hidden gems, parks, and local cafes. If you're looking for some neighborhood gems, check out my article: Best Coffee Shops in Spokane's Favorite Neighborhoods, too!
Whether you’re a local or visiting Spokane, the city offers countless family-friendly activities. If you’re curious about more family-friendly activities in Spokane, a relocation guide or just to talk about some of m favorite Spokane neighborhoods, reach out to me here.
