A Lush Oasis In Washington, Spokane’s Manito Park Is A Peaceful Escape

The world can be a loud place, and spending some time surrounded by peace and quiet helps us stay centered. Spokane's official motto was once "near nature, near perfect," and those who call the Lilac City home certainly don't have to go far to experience it. In fact, you don't even need to leave the city limits to enjoy some sweet serenity -- all you have to do is head to Manito Park.

You'll find Manito Park at 17th Ave and Grand Boulevard in Spokane's South Hill neighborhood.

This iconic park dates all the way back to 1904.

Since it opened over a century ago, the park has evolved from an underdeveloped lot with a few flower pots to one of Spokane's most beloved treasures.

There are now five major garden areas, the Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden, Duncan Garden, Rose Hill, Lilac Garden, and Ferris Perennial Garden.

Admission is always free, and the park is open daily from 5 a.m. - 11 p.m.

That's a lot of time to stroll these gorgeous grounds.

The park was originally a public recreation area called Montrose Park.

The name was changed to Manito, from the Algonquian word manitou, in 1903. In 1907, a park commission was formed, and the space continued to grow.

It's hard to imagine it now, but there was a zoo here.

The zoo hasn't been open since 1932 when it closed due to the Great Depression. But if you pay close attention, you'll still see a few remnants, like an iron bar sticking out of a rock that was once part of the bear cages.

The Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden is particularly popular.

It's open seasonally from spring through fall, and it's absolutely stunning.

Manito Park is truly a little piece of paradise.

If you live in Eastern Washington and you've never gone, make this the year you do.

What's your favorite spot in Manito Park?