Duncan Garden
A breathtaking European Renaissance-style garden in Spokane, bursting with vibrant colors, manicured displays, and tranquil pathways.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak bloom & fewer crowds
Duncan Garden
Best Time
Peak bloom & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking European Renaissance-style garden in Spokane, bursting with vibrant colors, manicured displays, and tranquil pathways.
"This classic, Grand, old fashioned garden is a sign of how the wealth of a city can be spent to enrich the lives of all the citizens."
🌸 Peak Bloom Window
Visit June-August for the most vibrant flowers and active fountain.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Formal Garden
Central area of Duncan Garden
A breathtaking display of manicured flower beds and symmetrical designs, reminiscent of European Renaissance gardens.
Vibrant Rose Gardens
Adjacent to the formal garden
An exceptional collection of roses, showcasing a riot of colors and fragrances during peak bloom.
Tranquil Pathways
Throughout Duncan Garden
Meandering walkways offer serene strolls amidst lush greenery and picturesque floral arrangements.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Peak Bloom
Beyond the Blooms: A Full Park Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌸 Peak Bloom Window
Visit June-August for the most vibrant flowers and active fountain.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
🎨 Plein Air Sketching
Join art workshops for sketching and watercolor painting in the garden.
💧 Donation for Gardeners
Support the dedicated gardeners by donating at the Geiger Conservatory.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌸 Peak Bloom Window
Visit June-August for the most vibrant flowers and active fountain.
🧺 Picnic Perfect
Pack a lunch to enjoy the serene atmosphere and beautiful scenery.
🎨 Plein Air Sketching
Join art workshops for sketching and watercolor painting in the garden.
💧 Donation for Gardeners
Support the dedicated gardeners by donating at the Geiger Conservatory.
🐶 Duncan the Garden Gremlin
Watch out for Duncan, the adorable tomato goblin and garden gremlin! +1
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Duncan Garden for its stunning beauty, vibrant floral displays, and meticulous design, calling it a 'riot of color' and a 'beautifully planned' space. Many appreciate it as a free, enriching public amenity. Some note the historical context of the area, including past zoo elements, which adds a layer of depth to the visit.
"This classic, Grand, old fashioned garden is a sign of how the wealth of a city can be spent to enrich the lives of all the citizens. It's a riot of color right now. Full of blossoms and happy families picnicking. Great care and design was put into the execution of various different gardens and the Japanese garden is another gem. I believe the Manitou park system was designed by the Olsen Brothers who also designed parks in Chicago. Don't forget the Geiger conservatory greenhouse! It's full of gorgeous tropical plants and cactuses. Lily and Casey are the gardeners inside, and they do a beautiful, caring job for the plants. A donation box is mounted by the door if you would like to help support their creative efforts, bringing rare plants from all over the world to Spokane."
Katherine Shields
"As a Spokane native, I’ve known about Manito Park and the Duncan Gardens since I was a kid. I typically come here every time I’m in town regardless of the season though the flowers really make this place special. Built as a sort of English Garden type set up, everything is perfectly arranged and symmetrical, which is amazing. The rose section is fabulous but I like the other side better. Plus, we went into the greenhouse for the first time and I can’t believe I had never been inside before. It’s fantastic. If you pay close attention, there are a few plaques nearby that give insight into some ugly history about this area featuring a past zoo with animals chained up.
Very interesting place. Please don’t miss it.
Michael Delehanty
Compass Real Estate"
Michael Delehanty Real Estate
"Always such a great place to visit, especially late June, July, and a little bit of August when the flowers/plants are going full bloom. If you’re looking for a place to take a peaceful walk, and enjoy some wonderful scenery, look no further."
Jakob Zetwick
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Duncan Garden is located within Manito Park in Spokane, Washington. You can reach Manito Park by car, with ample parking available. Public transportation options also serve the park area.
Yes, Manito Park, including Duncan Garden, offers parking facilities for visitors. It's advisable to arrive early during peak seasons to secure a spot.
Absolutely! Manito Park is accessible via walking and biking paths, making it a great option for active visitors. Enjoy the scenic routes leading to the gardens.
Manito Park is quite extensive. Pick up a park map or use a navigation app to locate Duncan Garden and other attractions like the Japanese Garden and Conservatory.
Duncan Garden itself is free to enter. However, special events or workshops held within the park may have associated fees.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Duncan Garden is generally open from dawn until dusk, allowing visitors to enjoy its beauty throughout the day. The Conservatory has specific operating hours.
No, entry to Duncan Garden is free for all visitors. It's a public space designed for everyone to enjoy.
The flowers in Duncan Garden are typically planted in the spring, with the main displays coming to life as the weather warms up.
The fountain in Duncan Garden usually begins operating in the spring, coinciding with the warmer weather and the start of the blooming season.
While Duncan Garden is a public space, inquiries about private events or photography permits should be directed to the Spokane Parks Department.
📸 📸 Photography
The formal garden with its symmetrical flower beds, the vibrant rose gardens, and the tranquil pathways offer stunning photo opportunities. The entire garden is picturesque. 
Yes, photography is generally allowed and encouraged in Duncan Garden for personal use. Professional or commercial photography may require permits.
Early morning or late afternoon 'golden hours' offer the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and creating a soft, beautiful glow.
Drone usage is typically restricted in public parks to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Check with the Spokane Parks Department for specific regulations.
While general photography is welcome, be mindful of other visitors and avoid blocking pathways. Respect any designated 'no photography' areas if present.
🎫 🌿 Onsite Experience
Wander through the colorful flower beds, enjoy a peaceful walk, have a picnic, and admire the formal European Renaissance-style design.
Yes, families can enjoy the beautiful scenery, open spaces for picnics, and the charming atmosphere. Keep an eye out for Duncan, the garden gremlin! +1
Restroom facilities are available within Manito Park, typically near the main entrances and other attractions.
Leashed dogs are generally permitted in Manito Park's outdoor areas, including Duncan Garden, but always check current park regulations.
Duncan Garden is part of Manito Park, which also features a Japanese Garden, a Rose Garden, and the Geiger Conservatory.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond Duncan Garden, Manito Park has other family-friendly features like playgrounds and the fascinating Geiger Conservatory, which can be a hit with kids interested in exotic plants. The overall atmosphere is peaceful yet stimulating, making it a great outing for all ages.
📸 Photographers & Artists
+1Instagram Reels and TikTok videos often showcase the garden's photogenic qualities, with creators highlighting the vibrant colors and picturesque scenes. The park even hosts plein air sketching and watercolor painting workshops, making it an ideal spot to hone your artistic skills amidst natural beauty.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Peace Seekers
Beyond Duncan Garden, the broader Manito Park offers further opportunities for tranquility, particularly the Japanese Garden. The park's well-maintained grounds and the absence of overwhelming crowds (especially during off-peak hours) make it a sanctuary for reflection and rejuvenation.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of the Formal Garden
The vibrant displays are a result of careful seasonal planting. While the structure remains consistent, the specific flowers change throughout the year, ensuring a dynamic visual experience. The meandering walkways provide a gentle contrast to the formal structure, inviting visitors to explore and discover hidden nooks within the vibrant floral tapestry.
Beyond Duncan: Exploring Manito Park
A significant attraction within Manito Park is the Geiger Conservatory, a greenhouse filled with exotic tropical plants, cacti, and seasonal floral displays. It's a fantastic escape, especially during cooler months. The park also features picnic areas, playgrounds, and other themed gardens, making it a comprehensive destination for a full day of exploration and relaxation.
The 'Garden Gremlin' Phenomenon
This phenomenon highlights how even traditional attractions can gain new life through social media. It appeals to a younger audience and adds a memorable, fun layer to visiting Duncan Garden, encouraging visitors to look for their own 'garden gremlin' moments. It's a reminder that nature and fun can go hand-in-hand.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit