This Rare Footage Of Natatorium Park, A Washington Amusement Park Will Have You Longing For The Good Old Days
By Jessica Wick|Published April 01, 2021
×
Jessica Wick
Author
Jessica Wick is a writer and travel enthusiast who loves exploring new places, meeting new people and, of course, beautiful Big Sky Country and every part of Washington State.
If you’re familiar with Spokane’s history, you may have heard that it was once home to a popular amusement park. In fact, Natatorium Park was a major attraction up until its 1968 closing. And most Washingtonians barely remember it exists, must less its long and complicated history.
In 1996, KSPC produced an hour-long documentary detailing all there is to know about Natatorium, including some interviews from some of its past employees and guests. The entire thing is available for viewing on YouTube, and it’s truly worth the watch.
Natatorium Park was once located right on the Spokane River, on the west end of Boone Avenue.
The cable car required a destination at the end to attract riders, so the park was born. The name was changed to Twickenham Park in 1890, and a baseball field, casino and bar were all added that year.
Advertisement
In 1892, the park became Natatorium Park. And that's when things really started to take off.
The Jack Rabbit cost $60,000 to build, which was no small amount in 1920. It paid off, however, as it was thought to be the park's most popular attraction.
Natatorium Park continued to grow and change, but people lost interest over time.
It closed for good in 1962. Efforts were made to recover it, but it never happened, and in 1968, it was burned to the ground. However, we did get to keep one precious memento -- the Loof Carousel, which you'll still find at Riverfront Park today.
Check out this fascinating documentary on Nat Park. We guarantee you’ll learn a few things!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
