Spokane, WA

Sitting in my front yard I can hear the ping on the bat, the creek of the swings, the clunk of the horseshoe, the bounce of the tennis balls and the children laughing. All of this fun can be found at Franklin Park located in north Spokane at Queen and Division. Franklin Park has so much going on during the spring, summer and fall, that spending an entire day at the park is a distinct possibility. Many times you will see softball games, soccer games, tennis games, horseshoe games, family reunions or birthday parties and kids running every where all at the same time. This is because Franklin Park is situated on 43 acres and boasts 5 softball fields, numerous horseshoe pits, 2 tennis courts, a large covered picnic area, huge toy area, and many acres of open fields. Franklin Park also has a lovely walking/bike riding trail too.

We just got back from playing at Franklin Park. There are toys that will help a kid of any age burn off energy. There 3 different play structures, a toy car, two old fashion animals that you ride on and one car type merry-go-round. My son enjoys sliding down the slide and riding in the car. Today he also wanted to swing; so a swinging we went! There were lots of other kids there today too.

On Wednesday night from May through September you can play horseshoes with the Spokane Horseshoe Association. The horseshoe pits are open all the time so you can also bring your own horseshoes.

During spring, summer and fall weekends the 5 softball fields are almost always bustling with activity. Between the girls fast pitch tournaments, adult leagues and boys baseball there is always something fun to watch.

Franklin Park is also a great place to bring your Frisbee or soccer ball to play around with family or friends. Two weeks ago we went to the park with some friends and threw the Frisbee around. That was fun.

Franklin Park is always full of people walking and playing with their dogs. If you are a dog owner, make sure to pick up your doggy messes. It is hard enough to keep up with a toddler without having to watch out for doggy presents!

If you are looking for a place to have a reunion, birthday party or other get together, Franklin Park is nice because it has a big covered eating area. This can be reserved in advance too by calling the Spokane Parks Department at 625-6200.

Franklin Park also has dozens of picnic tables spread throughout the park so there is always room to have a picnic.

There is ample parking at Franklin Park. There are two designated parking lots, one on the north side and one on the west side and if those are full, Queen offers street park.