Photo: Gonzaga Preparatory School
Photo: Gonzaga Preparatory School
Photo: Gonzaga Preparatory School
Gonzaga Preparatory School
FreePark
🕑 1.5 to 3 hours👶 Best for ages 2-10. Toddlers and preschoolers love the gentle splash pad features, while elementary-aged kids enjoy the playground equipment and have plenty of space to burn energy on the open lawn.
About
This hidden gem on the Gonzaga Prep campus offers families a completely free summer escape featuring a splash pad that keeps kids cool on hot Spokane days. The adjacent playground equipment and spacious green areas make it perfect for an extended outdoor visit where kids can rotate between water play, climbing, and running around.
Highlights
- ✓Free splash pad perfect for cooling off on hot summer days
- ✓Playground equipment for active play
- ✓Open green space ideal for picnics and games
- ✓Zero admission cost makes it budget-friendly for repeat visits
- ✓Less crowded than commercial water parks
Pro Tips
- 1.Bring towels, sunscreen, and a change of clothes since the splash pad keeps kids thoroughly soaked.
- 2.Pack a picnic to enjoy on the green space and make a full morning or afternoon of your visit.
- 3.Visit during weekday mornings in summer when school is out for the best access, as the school grounds are primarily for students during the academic year.
- 4.The splash pad operates only during warm summer months, typically when temperatures rise, so call ahead to confirm it's running.
- 5.Parking is available in the school lot, but be mindful of any school events that might limit public access.
Best Time to Visit
Visit on weekday mornings between June and August when the splash pad is operational and temperatures are warmest. Arriving early (before 10 AM) helps you beat the midday heat and avoid afternoon crowds.
What to Know
This is a completely free attraction, but note the school hours listed may refer to academic year access. During summer months when the splash pad operates, public access is more flexible, though it's best to visit during daylight hours.
Seasonal Notes
The splash pad operates only during summer months (typically June through August) when weather is warm. During the school year (September through May), public access may be limited to weekends or restricted entirely as the grounds serve the school community.
Nearby Eats
Head to Nudo Ramen House on North Division Street for kid-friendly noodle bowls, or stop by The Scoop for ice cream and casual sandwiches to cap off your splash pad adventure.
More Activities Near Spokane
Park
Manito Park
★4.8Free❤️59
Manito Park is a stunning 90-acre urban oasis that offers families the perfect blend of natural beauty and active play. With multiple themed gardens to explore, a charming duck pond that captivates little ones, several playgrounds for different age groups, and miles of stroller-friendly walking trails, this award-winning park provides hours of free entertainment for the whole family.
Park
Riverfront Park
★4.7Free❤️349
Riverfront Park is Spokane's crown jewel for family fun, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and exciting attractions right in the heart of downtown. With a historic hand-carved carousel, a thrilling cable car ride over roaring waterfalls, multiple modern playgrounds, and a unique skating ribbon, this 100-acre park delivers hours of entertainment without an admission fee.
Park
Cannon Hill Park
★4.7Free❤️34
Cannon Hill Park offers families a classic Pacific Northwest outdoor experience with its blend of modern playground equipment and peaceful natural wooded trails. This highly rated neighborhood gem provides the perfect setting for everything from active play to quiet nature walks, all completely free for Spokane families.
Entertainment
Looff Carrousel
$
Step back in time at the Looff Carrousel, a stunning hand-carved carousel from 1909 that's been enchanting Spokane families for over a century. Located in the heart of Riverfront Park, this beautifully preserved national treasure features 54 hand-carved horses and other whimsical creatures, all accompanied by the magical sounds of a vintage Wurlitzer organ. It's an affordable, nostalgic experience that creates lasting memories for multiple generations to enjoy together.