A visit to the spectacular and varied gardens of Manito Park should be at the top of any Spokane visitor's list. Located on Spokane's South Hill, this 90-acre park is surrounded by well-preserved historic homes. In addition to the trails, playgrounds, recreation facilities, and other typical city park amenities, Manito Park is home to several formal gardens. The Spokane Rose Society works with the Parks department to present both formal and informal rose gardens, as well as a rose test garden. Duncan Garden is a formal European-style garden, complete with a fountain, and well-manicured flowerbeds. Visitors can enjoy the serene beauty of the Nishinomiya Japanese Garden. The Joel E. Ferris Perennial Garden offers seasonal blooms and green-thumb inspiration. The Gaiser Conservatory is flush with colorful flowers and tropical plants all year round. Finally, no Spokane garden would be complete without lilacs, which can be savored at Manito Park in the late spring.
