Have fun at Riverfront Park

There aren't too many other places around here where you can take a walk, see a movie, ride a train and ride a historic carousel all within a few feet of each other. Luckily, the Inland Northwest has Riverfront Park - a special spot in downtown Spokane that is a great place to visit any time of the year.

In summer especially, a visit to the 100-acre park and historic site of Expo '74 is certainly in order. It is open seven days a week during warmer months, and every attraction is worth seeing.

Visitors could ride the Tour Train or the Loof Carousel, play mini golf in the Enchanted Forest, go on variety of kids' rides, or see a movie at one of the only IMAX theaters in the Northwest.

Click to View Larger Image

They can take a SkyRide over the Spokane Falls, or sit on a bench watching the Spokane River go by. Kids also love the free fun of watching or even playing in the Rotary Riverfront Fountain.

During the summer, the Spokane Parks and Recreation Department organizes various events in the park and nearby Lilac Bowl, including concerts and other entertainment.

Some of these events do have a cost, others are completely free for everyone in the community.

One of the largest annual events is the Fourth of July celebration, which includes music, fireworks and activities.

But people also gather for Pig Out in the Park, Unity in the Community, Hoopfest, Kids' Day and First Night.

This summer, hours for the Carousel and SkyRide are 10 a.m-8 p.m. Sunday-Thursday and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Pavilion Rides and Tour Train opens at 11 a.m., and closes at 7 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and at 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

For more information on park offerings or a schedule of summer events, please call 456-4FUN or 1-800-336-PARK, or visit the Riverfront Park Web site at www.spokaneriverfrontpark.com