Franklin Park South Playground

Locals know this south-end spot as one of the better low-key options for little kids in Spokane. The slides are sized just right for toddlers and early elementary age — nothing too intimidating — and the shade trees actually do their job on hot summer afternoons. Bring a cooler, claim one of the picnic tables near the BBQ area, and you’ve basically got a full afternoon sorted. It’s the kind of place where birthday parties and casual family hangs just work without a lot of effort.