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15 Parks Worth Picnic-ing This Summer

Picnics in the Pacific Northwest? So dreamy! At least they can be if you understand there’s an art to it. It takes more than a blanket and a basket to make your picnic in a park movie scene dreams come true.

Spokane, Coeur d’Alene and the surrounding areas have wonderful public parks for the picturesque backdrop you’re looking for, and both cloudy days and sunny skies make for a beautiful summer picnic.

The art of picnic-ing is the perfect hobby to take up now that the days are longer and the weather is warmer. The Trending Northwest team has curated a list of 15 ideal spots for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Here they are.

Audubon Park 

Address: 405 Milton St, Spokane, WA 99205

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Covered by pine trees, Audubon Park’s canopy creates the perfect shaded areas for picnic-ers and park goers to enjoy. The park also offers splash pads and sports courts if you want to add activities to your picnic experience. Audubon is tucked away off Northwest Blvd in north Spokane and has 27-acres of luscious green grass and Ponderosa Pines.

Cannon Hill Park

Address: 625 W 19th Ave, Spokane, WA 99203

This neighborhood park is a Spokane South Hill staple for those who know about it. It was once a brickyard in the 1800s before becoming the beautiful recreational area that it is today. The homes surrounding this hidden haven are just as beautiful, serving as the ideal backdrop to any breakfast, lunch or dinner picnic.

Comstock Park

Address: 901 W 29th Ave, Spokane, WA 99203

With 25-acres of grass, green field, sports courts and a pool, Comstock Park has something for everything looking to expand their picnic outing into an all day hang. Lay under the trees with a book, enjoy some sun poolside or get some energy out. This South Hill park has plenty of space for even the busiest of days. Yon will find your picnic peace.

Corbin Park

Address: 501 W Park Pl, Spokane, WA 99205

Corbin Park’s Victorian feel comes from the upscale historical homes that surround it. The circular park stretches from one end of the neighborhood to the other, giving it a quaint and quiet feel. Get to it by way of Monroe or Division Street. This park will elevate your picnic experience from basic to Bridgerton.

Corbin Park (Post Falls, ID) 

Address: 896 S Corbin Rd, Post Falls, ID 83854

Right along the river in Post Falls, Corbin Park couldn’t be cuter for a romantic picnic or family friendly sit down. There are several official picnic seating options and even more DIY spots. Stop by Kitty G’s nearby to make your picnic that much more enjoyable.

Fort Sherman Playground (Coeur d’Alene, ID)

Address: 332 Hubbard St, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814

Fort Sherman’s iconic playground in Coeur d’Alene will give you the view of a lifetime as you overlook Lake Coeur d’Alene while having lunch. The park features well-maintained designated picnic spots, gorgeous walking trails and the fort playground of your dreams for post and pre lunch playing. The park offers an historical feel in the middle of nature. Step away from the park and visit Fort Sherman Chapel, too.

John A. Finch Arboretum 

Address: 340 W Woodland Blvd, Spokane, WA 99224

Open dawn to dusk everyday, the Arboretum is a timeless botanical and garden oasis worth packing your picnic basket for. Located southwest of Spokane, this 67-acre heaven has over 500 varieties of trees to unpack under. This enclosed and special space has plenty of open areas and private spaces, giving visitors endless opportunities to connect with nature and their company.

Broadway musical "Company" showing in Spokane September 11 - 15.

Lincoln Park

Address: 2221 E Southeast Blvd, Spokane, WA 99223

With lower and upper grounds to explore, Lincoln Park in Spokane provides different backdrops to your outing depending on where you would like to gather. Known for its panoramic views, it invites gal pals, dates and families to look out over the city. Lincoln Park is located just a few miles from Manito Park, another magical place to graze.

Q'emiln Park (Post Falls, ID)

Address: 12201 W Parkway Dr, Post Falls, ID 83854

Picnickers seeking both relaxation and adventure should venture to Q’emlin Park in Post Falls, Idaho. Visitors can enjoy the park's natural beauty, rock climbing opportunities and water activities, making it a popular spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. 

Kendall Yards 

Address: 808 W. Spokane Falls Blvd. Spokane, WA 99201

Kendall Yards combines modern amenities with scenic views, making it an excellent place for a picnic. Located along the Spokane River, its park offers beautifully landscaped green spaces, picnic tables and a bustling street nearby with various shops and restaurants. Its riverfront setting and proximity to Centennial Trail provide the perfect backdrop for a relaxing outdoor meal and post-meal stroll.

Manito Park 

Address: 1702 S Grand Blvd, Spokane, WA 99203

This stunning park needs no introduction. Manito Park has been one of Spokane’s most renowned spots for decades. It is the botanical paradise ideal for a picturesque picnic. Spanning 90 acres, the park features beautifully manicured gardens, serene ponds and lush green spaces. Visitors can enjoy diverse flora, from the vibrant Duncan Garden to the tranquil Japanese Garden, you can visit many times and feel like you’re somewhere new. There’ so much to explore!

Mirabeau Park 

Address: 13500 E Mirabeau Pkwy, Spokane Valley, WA 99216

Mirabeau Park / Photo Credit : City of Spokane Valley


This Spokane Valley park features expansive green lawns, shaded picnic areas and a gorgeous waterfall, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor gatherings. With its playground, walking trails and access to Mirabeau Springs, it’s an ideal destination for a relaxing morning or afternoon meal in nature.

Mount Spokane State Park

Address: 26107 N Mt Spokane Park Dr, Mead, WA 99021

As one of the largest state parks, Mount Spokane boasts lush forests, scenic meadows and numerous picnic spots nestled within its expansive 100,000-acre landscape. Picnickers can enjoy well-equipped picnic areas, miles of hiking and biking trails, and breathtaking panoramic views, making it a quintessential spot for both casual visitors and avid nature enthusiasts.

Orchard Park (Liberty Lake, WA)

Address: 20298 E Indiana Ave, Liberty Lake, WA 99019

This charming community park offers the perfect setting for a family picnic. With its well-maintained walking paths and lush greenery, Orchard Park creates a welcoming environment for relaxation and gathering over good food and conversation in Liberty Lake.

Palisades Park 

Address: 2-198 W Greenwood Rd, Spokane, WA 99224

Palisades Park is located in Spokane on the Spokane River.

With its rugged, natural beauty and stunning vistas, this park features dramatic basalt cliffs, diverse wildlife and extensive hiking trails that wind through pine forests and meadows. Picnickers can enjoy serene spots with extensive panoramic views of the Spokane River and surrounding landscapes. This lunch or picnic spot doubles down as an activity center as well. Stay for a while— bring lunch and a book of choice to make the most of Palisades Park.

Tubb’s Hill (Coeur d’Alene, ID)

Address: 208 S 3rd St, Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814

Tubbs Hill in Coeur d'Alene, ID is a beloved natural retreat that offers an idyllic setting for a picnic. This 165-acre park features scenic trails, rocky shores and stunning views of Lake Coeur d'Alene, providing the ideal backdrop for outdoor meals. Guests can also explore its diverse ecosystems, go swimming in the lake, or relax in one of the many tranquil spots scattered throughout the park.

Turnbull National Refuge 

Address: 26010 S Smith Rd, Cheney, WA 9900

Turnbull, Photo By/Credit Edward Gill/USFWS

With over 18,000 acres of diverse habitats, including wetlands, grasslands and forests, the refuge offers abundant opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor recreation. Picnickers can enjoy the peaceful ambiance, scenic trails and engage in birdwatching. Make Turnbull Refuge your escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Jordy Blaine, Director of Community Partnerships

Jordan (Jordy) Blaine has her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with a major in Public Relations from Carroll College, and is a professional journalist with 10 years of experience in newsrooms. Jordy has worked at Krem 2 News, and is now at Trending Northwest to organize events, coordinate PR campaigns, and expand coverage of marginalized communities . If you want to learn more about how she is making an impact right here in the Northwest, give her a follow on Instagram or Facebook.

READ MORE FROM JORDY HERE.

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