If you're looking for a reason to visit Spokane — or a reason to stay on the South Hill — Manito Park might be the best one there is. And if you're staying at Manito Bungalow, you're exactly one block away from 90 acres of botanical gardens, wooded paths, and some of the most peaceful scenery in the Pacific Northwest.
Manito Park is completely free to visit, open from dawn to dusk year-round, and it's the kind of place that locals never get tired of. Whether you're a morning runner, a garden lover, or you just want somewhere beautiful to walk with a coffee, this park delivers.
The Five Gardens
Duncan Garden
The crown jewel of Manito Park. This European Renaissance-style formal garden features symmetrical planting beds that change with the seasons — tulips in spring, vibrant annuals in summer. It's one of the most photographed spots in all of Spokane, and for good reason.
Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden
A tranquil Japanese garden with a koi pond, stone lanterns, and meticulously maintained plantings. It was designed by Nagao Sakurai, a former gardener at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. Open May through October.
Rose Hill
Over 1,500 rose bushes representing more than 150 varieties. Peak bloom is typically mid-June through early July. The fragrance alone is worth the visit.
Joel E. Ferris Perennial Garden
Three acres of perennial flowers that bloom in waves from spring through fall. It's an ever-changing display of color and texture — a photographer's dream.
Lilac Garden
Spokane is the "Lilac City," and this garden is why. Over 100 varieties of lilacs bloom here each May, filling the air with that unmistakable fragrance. Time your visit for early-to-mid May for the best display.
The Gaiser Conservatory
A beautiful indoor tropical conservatory that's open year-round (daily 9 AM–3:30 PM, closed Wednesdays). It's especially wonderful during Spokane's cold winters — step inside and you're surrounded by orchids, palms, and tropical plants. Free admission.
What Else Is in the Park?
Beyond the gardens, Manito Park offers walking and jogging paths, a large duck pond (bring bread for the ducks!), picnic areas, playgrounds, and open lawns perfect for frisbee or just spreading out a blanket. During summer, you'll find local yoga classes, outdoor concerts, and families enjoying the long evenings.
Address: 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA 99203 Hours: Dawn to dusk daily (Conservatory: 9 AM–3:30 PM, closed Wednesdays) Admission: Free Distance from Manito Bungalow: 1 block (2-minute walk) Website: manitopark.org Best time to visit: May–June for lilacs and roses; year-round for the conservatory
Why This Matters for Your Stay
Being one block from Manito Park means your mornings can start with a walk through the Japanese garden, your afternoons can include a picnic in the rose garden, and your evenings can end with a sunset stroll around the duck pond. It's the kind of access that turns a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
When you stay at Manito Bungalow, the park is practically your backyard. Our guests consistently tell us it's their favorite thing about the location — and once you experience it, you'll understand why.
Ready to wake up one block from Spokane's most beautiful park? Check availability at Manito Bungalow. Prefer a platform? Find us on VRBO or Airbnb.