Map of Riverfront Park - Riverfront Spokane

Description: This map shows streets, roads, trails, restrooms, buildings, parking lots, shops, points of interest, visitor center, view points, playgrounds, fountains, and monuments in Riverfront Park (Riverfront Spokane).

Description: This map shows restrooms,ATM machines, food and beverage, Spokane Falls viewpoints, walking trails, guest services, guest info, parking lots, points of interest, and attractions in Riverfront Park (Riverfront Spokane).

Description: This map shows visitor information, restrooms, parking lots, points of interest, and attractions in Riverfront Park (Riverfront Spokane).

About Riverfront Park - Riverfront Spokane

Riverfront Park is a public urban park located in downtown Spokane, Washington, United States. The park encompasses approximately 100 acres along the Spokane River and serves as the city's central gathering place and recreational area.

History

The park was created for Expo '74, an environmental-themed World's Fair held in Spokane from May 4 to November 3, 1974. It was the first environmentally themed World's Fair and attracted nearly 5.6 million visitors during its six-month run. Prior to the fair, the site was occupied by railroad yards and industrial facilities. The transformation of this area into a park represented a significant urban renewal effort for Spokane.

After the exposition concluded, the fairgrounds were converted into a permanent public park. The park has since become a defining feature of Spokane's downtown landscape and remains one of the city's most visited attractions.

Features and Attractions

Riverfront Park contains numerous attractions distributed across its grounds. The Spokane Falls serve as the park's natural centerpiece, with both the upper and lower falls visible from various vantage points throughout the park. The park occupies several islands in the Spokane River, including Canada Island and Havermale Island.

The Pavilion, originally constructed for Expo '74, remains a prominent landmark. This distinctive structure features a suspended cable roof and hosts various events throughout the year. The Clock Tower, built in 1902 as part of the Great Northern Railway depot, stands as a recognizable symbol of both the park and the city. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The park features a SkyRide, a gondola lift system that carries passengers over the Spokane Falls, providing aerial views of the waterfalls and park. Originally installed for the World's Fair, it has been updated and continues to operate as a popular attraction. The Looff Carrousel, a hand-carved carousel built in 1909 by Charles I.D. Looff, operates within a climate-controlled pavilion. This historic carousel is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Redevelopment

Between 2014 and 2021, Riverfront Park underwent a comprehensive $64 million redevelopment project called the Riverfront Park Master Plan. This renovation aimed to modernize aging infrastructure, improve accessibility, and enhance visitor experience while preserving the park's historic elements. The project was funded through a combination of public bonds and private donations.

Major improvements included redesigning the central area of the park, upgrading pathways and bridges, creating new play areas, and renovating the Pavilion. The Looff Carrousel was restored and moved to a new pavilion. New amenities such as the Numerica Skate Ribbon, an ice skating ribbon in winter and a roller skating path in summer, were added. The project was completed in phases to keep portions of the park accessible during construction.

Recreation and Events

The park hosts numerous community events throughout the year. These include concerts, festivals, outdoor movies, and seasonal celebrations. The Spokane River within the park boundaries offers opportunities for fishing and viewing wildlife. Walking and cycling paths traverse the park, connecting to the broader Spokane River Centennial Trail system.

During summer months, the park's attractions operate at full capacity, drawing both residents and tourists. Winter activities include ice skating on the Skate Ribbon and holiday light displays. The park remains open year-round and provides free admission, though individual attractions may charge fees.