Summers in the PNW are truly something special, the days are longer, the sun is shining, and every park, trail, and riverbank seems to be begging for picnics. After months of gray skies and rain, there’s something sacred about a warm afternoon spent outside, and Spokane has no shortage of gorgeous spots to soak it all in. An absolute summer must-do here is going on a picnic! It’s a simple, low-key way to make your day a little more special and connect with nature. Pick up local bites and cozy blankets spread out under the trees, because a little planning can turn an ordinary afternoon into a memorable summer experience.
A great picnic is all about a little forethought. It can be as simple as a baguette, some (AMAZING) cheese, and a good view, or it can be a whole spread with a spectacular flower arrangement to make everyone in the park jealous. Either way, the effort you put in tends to pay off tenfold in the memories you walk away with. There’s no better way to enjoy the season than a picnic done right. Here’s everything you need to have the most immaculate Northwest picnic.
Where to Spread Your Blanket: Best Spokane Picnic Spots
Audubon Park
405 Milton St, Spokane, WA 99205
Tucked away in Northwest Spokane, Audubon Park feels like a secret shared among locals. You’ll smell freshly cut grass mixed with the earthy scent of pine, and on warm afternoons the light filters softly through the leaves, casting a golden glow over the whole park. The park has a quiet, unhurried energy to it. The trees offer plenty of shade for when the midday sun gets a little too enthusiastic, and the open lawn gives you room to spread out a blanket without feeling boxed in by other picnickers. Don’t forget to pack a good book, your favorite iced coffee, and maybe a little something sweet for later. Soak up the sun and settle in for a slower pace of summer. Audubon Park isn’t the flashiest spot in the city, and that’s exactly its charm.
Manito Park
1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA 99203
This is 90 acres of manicured gardens, ponds, and greenery, and it genuinely feels like a different world every time you visit. Part of what makes Manito so special is the variety. Wander through the Rose Garden for sweet florals or post up near the Duck Pond and get the gentle soundtrack of quacking and rustling cattails. Wherever you land, Manito is the ultimate destination for an elevated picnic experience. It’s also just endlessly walkable, which makes it easy to scope out the perfect spot before you commit to unrolling your blanket. Bring a charcuterie board, a bottle of something bubbly, or just a simple sandwich, and the park does the rest of the work in making it feel special. By far, my personal favorite park for a picnic. If you only have time to visit one Spokane park this summer, let it be this one.
Mirabeau Park
13500 E Mirabeau Pkwy, Spokane Valley, WA 99216
Mirabeau Park should be at the top of your list for the perfect picnic destination, especially if you’re planning something bigger than a blanket for two. The expansive lawns provide plenty of room for lawn games, kids to run freely, and large groups to gather comfortably without anyone feeling cramped. Nearby, the Spokane River adds a calming soundtrack as water moves through the landscape, and the surrounding trees give the whole area a lush, green backdrop that makes it easy to forget you’re still in Spokane Valley. A short walk along the riverside trail is the perfect way to stretch your legs between snacks, and if you’ve got little ones in tow, the nearby playground means they’ll have somewhere to burn off energy while the adults relax. Mirabeau also just has an easy, laid-back atmosphere to it. There’s enough space to claim your own little corner of the park, whether you’re after full sun or dappled shade, and enough going on nearby that no one in your group will run out of things to do. Bring the charcuterie board, the frisbee, and the entire family. Mirabeau is built for exactly this kind of long, unhurried summer afternoon.
What to Eat: Local Boards & Bites Worth Packing
Coppa Butchery
If you’re looking for the perfect picnic sandwich, make a stop at Coppa Butchery before heading to the park. Located in Liberty Lake, this locally owned butcher shop is known for its high-quality meats, but their deli sandwiches deserve just as much attention. Walk in and you’ll immediately notice the care that goes into everything on the menu, from the cases of house-cut meats to the friendly, knowledgeable staff who clearly love what they do. Made with thoughtfully sourced ingredients and packed with flavor, Coppa’s sandwiches are some of the best in Spokane!
Their sandwiches travel well and make for an easy, delicious picnic lunch, which means less time fussing over food prep and more time actually enjoying your afternoon outside. It’s a heartier option compared to some picnic staples, but that’s part of the appeal. You won’t be reaching for snacks an hour later wondering why you’re still hungry. Pair one with a bag of chips, your favorite drink, and a sunny Spokane afternoon, and you’ve got everything you need for the perfect summer picnic. If you’re someone who prefers to keep picnic prep simple while still supporting local, Coppa is an easy addition to your picnic checklist, and one your taste buds will thank you for.
Kitty G’s
Based in North Idaho, Kitty G’s specializes in fine meats, cheeses, and thoughtfully curated grazing options that make putting together a picnic spread feel effortless – especially with Ashley’s expert help! Step inside and you’ll find a case full of options, from bold, aged cheeses to delicately cured meats, all sourced with quality in mind. Pick up one of their charcuterie boxes, or select a few specialty cheeses and meats to build your own board from scratch. Kitty G’s offers plenty of options for creating a picnic that feels a bit more elevated, whether you’re going for something rich and indulgent or light and simple. Their selection is carefully chosen, making it easy to mix flavors, textures, and colors into one delicious spread without much guesswork on your end.
If you’d rather skip the decision-making entirely, that’s an option too. Place a special charcuterie order ahead of time and let their team bring your perfect picnic vision to life, no assembly required (aka the best option in my opinion). Perfect for everything from a romantic picnic down by Lake Coeur d’Alene to a casual afternoon with friends.
Boards by Brit
Every good picnic requires good food, and if you’re looking for something that’s both aesthetic and delicious, you need to check out Boards by Brit! Specializing in artisan charcuterie experiences, Brit creates beautiful boards that instantly elevate any picnic spread. As founder Britney puts it, “At Boards by Brit, we create more than charcuterie boards, we craft unforgettable culinary experiences.” That philosophy shows in every detail, from the way the boards are arranged to the ingredients she chooses to put on them. They offer gourmet cheeses, premium cured meats, fresh seasonal ingredients, and thoughtful details that elevate any occasion. Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering or a grand celebration, each board is artfully arranged to create a stunning centerpiece that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Even before you take a bite, you can tell how much care went into the presentation. The quality of the ingredients is beyond amazing, each piece of fruit is perfectly ripe, the jam pairs perfectly with the assorted cheese and crackers, and the arrangement itself is a work of art. You can tell that quality is the number one priority!
One of the things we love most is how many board options she offers. Boards by Brit has smaller offerings that include favorites like the Brunch Board, Savory Board, Dessert Board, and individual charcuterie boxes that are perfect for throwing in your picnic basket before heading to the park. From dips and cheeses to meats and crackers, you name it, and she can do it. Just ask!
Fresh Flowers to Finish the Look
Anthesis Co.
No picnic spread feels quite finished without a little something fresh, and that’s where Anthesis Co. comes in. Spokane’s contemporary studio florist is known for timeless, seasonal arrangements that add an instant touch of romance to any blanket setup. Their blooms turns a good picnic photo into a great one! Same-day delivery is available too, so even a last-minute picnic plan can still show up looking effortlessly put together. A few fresh stems tucked into a mason jar or laid loosely across the blanket, and suddenly the whole spread feels a little more special.
If you want our full list of incredible florists and flower farms – take a peek over here and get inspired.