Manito Park was officially established in April 1904 and has evolved from an undeveloped recreational area with a few flower beds, picnic spots, and a zoo to one of Spokane's primary showplaces. Manito Park was originally named, “Montrose Park” and to this day the primary garden showplace in Spokane. The word "Manito" comes from the Algonquian word "manitou," which means "great spirit," referring to a supernatural power that permeates the Earth and manifests itself in the nature around us. Montrose Park was changed to Manito Park in 1903 and originally played host to a zoo among other family friendly activities. Manito means, “spirit of nature”. Comprised of five major garden areas (the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, Duncan Garden, Rose Hill, Lilac Garden and Ferris Perennial Garden), Manito Park is nationally recognized for its diverse horticultural displays.
The Parks and Recreation Department maintains Manito Park's 78 acres of native and cultivated landscape and 20 acres of world class botanical gardens. Other Manito Park features include: Mirror Pond, a favorite of those who enjoy watching ducks and other water fowl; the Park Bench Café, open in season for light meals; Loop Drive and Bridge, offering majestic views of the Rose Garden; Upper and Lower Playgrounds – a favorite gathering spot of children; and the large basalt rock office building constructed in 1912. Central to the Park is the Gaiser Conservatory, where beautiful flowing displays change seasonally. Manito Park is located in Spokane's beautiful South Hill neighborhood and is toured by over 150,000 visitors each year.
Manito Park is located in the Spokane South Hill neighborhood and its five gardens, conservatory and duck pond are toured by over 150,000 visitors each year.
The Friends of Manito (TFM) is a non-profit group that supports Manito Park by providing funds for improvements for the general enhancement of Manito Park. Three major plant sales are given each year with approximately 100 volunteers working months before to prepare the plant material - making the events the premier plant sales for Spokane gardeners. Throughout the year, TFM also offers educational programs to further promote the community's use and enjoyment of Manito Park. Since their beginning, TFM has contributed over $525,000 to Manito Park.
Manito Park Bench Cafe, located between Mirror Pond and the Joel E. Ferris Perennial Garden, opens from late May to late September each year, serving our loyal and new guests with Alpine Bakery pastries, fresh made sandwiches, wraps, salad, espresso drinks and much more.
Date | 5/26 - 6/14 | 6/15 - 9/3 |
Hours | Weekends, 9AM - 5PM | 8AM - 7PM |