Liberty Park

Historic Origins

Tucked away in Spokane's East Central neighborhood, Liberty Park has been part of the city since 1897. The famous Olmsted brothers (yes, the same landscape architects behind NYC's Central Park!) put their creative touch on it around 1907, significantly reshaping the park's design. Back then, visitors would flock to enjoy the natural beauty and stunning eastward views from its terraced bluff.

Transformation Over Time

The 1960s brought major changes when Interstate 90 cut right through the original 22-acre park. Talk about a dramatic makeover! While this split altered the landscape forever, it left behind fascinating ruins including basalt walls, staircases, and viewpoints from an original pergola.

These remnants - affectionately dubbed "Spokane's Stonehenge" by locals - are visible to anyone driving through the I-90 interchange. Not willing to lose green space, the city expanded Liberty Park eastward to compensate for the freeway's footprint.

Modern Amenities

Today's Liberty Park blends historic charm with contemporary features. In 2021, a branch of the Spokane Public Library opened inside the park - because what goes better with nature than books? The library includes a cozy indoor play area that's well-suited for little ones on rainy days.

The park got another major upgrade in 2023 with a new 4,000+ square foot playground. What makes this playground special? The equipment was actually selected by neighborhood children (talk about knowing your audience!), and it features a rubberized walking surface for safety. You'll find tall slides, challenging climbing structures, a net swing, and even a mini zip line that keeps kids of all ages entertained.

Recreational Features

Frisbee fans, rejoice! The park houses a 19-hole disc golf course that's ideal if you're just getting started or looking to sharpen your skills. The technical layout offers enough challenge without overwhelming newcomers.

Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the baseball field, basketball courts, and horseshoe pits. During summer months, the Liberty Aquatic Center becomes a neighborhood hotspot with its outdoor pool, water slides, and diving board - ideal for cooling off when temperatures climb.

Park Amenities and Natural Features

If you're planning a picnic, you'll find multiple picnic areas with tables scattered around the grounds, plus a large covered pavilion near the playground for shade on sunny days.

The open grassy areas provide plenty of space for lounging with a good book or impromptu games of catch. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's wildlife residents, including a charming family of marmots that call this place home.

For those wanting to extend their outdoor adventure, the park connects to the Ben Burr Trail, offering additional walking or cycling paths beyond park boundaries.

Liberty Park is open daily from 4AM to 11PM, giving you plenty of time to explore this blend of historical elements and modern facilities.