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Ice Age Playground playground in Spokane, WA
Photo: Nathan Seiple
View of Ice Age Playground in Spokane, WA
Photo: Jason Upchurch
View of Ice Age Playground in Spokane, WA
Photo: Ronnie Stuart

Ice Age Playground

4.7(139 reviews)FreePlayground
🕑 1.5-2 hours👶 Best for ages 6-12. The playground is specifically designed for older children who are ready for more challenging climbing equipment and faster slides. While younger children can enjoy some areas with parental supervision, active elementary and middle school-aged kids will get the most out of the adventure-focused play structures.

About

Located in Spokane's beautiful Riverfront Park, Ice Age Playground is an adventure-packed destination designed specifically with older, active kids in mind. The playground features thrilling slides, challenging climbing structures, and equipment that encourages kids to push their physical limits in a safe, supervised environment. With its impressive 4.7-star rating and convenient downtown location, it's a must-visit for families looking for more than your average playground experience.

Highlights

  • Exciting, fast-paced slides perfect for thrill-seeking kids
  • Challenging climbing structures that test strength and coordination
  • Adventure-themed play equipment inspired by the Ice Age era
  • Located within the scenic 100-acre Riverfront Park with river views
  • Modern, well-maintained facilities with safety surfacing

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Park in the Riverfront Park parking garage on Howard Street for easy access,it's just steps from the playground entrance.
  2. 2.Visit early morning on weekdays during summer to beat the heat and crowds, especially since the playground features more climbing than shaded areas.
  3. 3.Bring water bottles and snacks, as active kids will work up an appetite on the challenging equipment.
  4. 4.Combine your visit with a ride on the historic Looff Carrousel or the SkyRide gondola, both located within Riverfront Park.
  5. 5.The playground surface can get hot in summer afternoons, so closed-toe athletic shoes are recommended over sandals.

Best Time to Visit

Weekday mornings during spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer evenings (6-8 PM) are perfect for avoiding the afternoon heat while still enjoying long daylight hours. Weekends can be busy, especially during peak afternoon hours.

What to Know

The playground is free to access and open daily from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Parking fees apply in the Riverfront Park garage. Restrooms and water fountains are available throughout Riverfront Park, and the area is stroller-accessible though the playground itself is designed for independent, mobile children.

Seasonal Notes

Open year-round, though metal slides and equipment can be extremely hot during summer afternoons (July-August). Spring and fall offer ideal weather conditions. Winter visits are possible on clear days, but equipment may be cold or occasionally icy. The playground is especially beautiful when combined with fall foliage views along the Spokane River.

Nearby Eats

Riverfront Park Pavilion (seasonal) offers quick bites and snacks on-site. For a sit-down meal, head to Clinkerdagger Restaurant just across the river for kid-friendly American fare with spectacular views, or grab pizza at Italia Trattoria about a 5-minute walk away on West Main Avenue.

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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.