Franke Park 3411 Sherman Blvd.
Size in acres: 339.4
Since 1921
Franke Park is located at 3411 Sherman Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN, 46808. For more detailed location information, check out the General Park Map or Franke Park Map
Park hours: 6 am-11 pm daily.
A Look Back in Time
Are you curious about the history of Franke Park? Check out the above video or read about the History of Franke Park here!
For additional history and photos, check out the Franke Park history powerpoint!
Franke Park Renaissance Project
Franke Park is one of Fort Wayne’s most significant cultural and ecological resources. Established in 1921, the park has served the recreational needs of the community and the region for nearly 100 years. In 1926, Arthur Shurtleff created a “General Plan” for the park featuring curving boulevards, gently meandering paths, open lawn areas, sites for several prominent structures, a lake, and an area for native animals featuring deer, elk, bison and bears. While the plan was never fully implemented, portions of it have formed the park we know today - in particular, the preservation of significant wooded areas, Shoaff Lake, and the creation of one of the finest zoos in the United States. A Treasured Resource and Valued Legacy. Read more about what is coming for Franke Park!
Check out the progress being made on the new McMillen Family pavilion in Franke Park! Watch the Franke Park Renaissance video to check out all the new improvements to the park!
WHAT TO DO
Scroll down for more information about our park features:
Pavilions
Franke Pavilion #1
Capacity: 296
Franke Pavilion #2
Capacity: 128
Franke Pond Pavilion
Capacity: 70
More information is available on renting pavilions. Read more on the pavilion web page.
Fishing
Nestled in the midst of Franke Park is Shoaff Lake. A serene body of water, the lake is home to fish and birds of all types. Fishing is allowed with appropriate licenses.
Playground
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There are plenty of opportunities to play on the playground in Franke Park.
6 new parks are being planned including this one at Franke Park! Additional details coming soon!
Natural Open Space/Trailsing
Walking/hiking trails run all through Franke Park. Several clearings and natural open spaces are scattered throughout the wooden areas.
To view a map of some of the multi use trails in Franke Park check out: Trail Map Note, these trails are maintained by the 3 Rivers Velo Sport Bicycle Club and are intended for everyone to enjoy. Please wear a helmet.
Foellinger Theatre
The Foellinger Outdoor Theatre constructed in 1948-9, was built with donated funds in memory of the late Oscar Foellinger, publisher of the News-Sentinel. Today it houses concerts, rented events and performances (seasonally).
Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo evolved in the mid-1960's from an earlier bird sanctuary and native animal exhibit. Today the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo has become one of the area's finest attractions for adults and children alike!
Franke BMXllin
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The Franke Park BMX is for riders young and old to come and compete, learn, practice and have a great time.
Franke Park Day Camp
Since its inception in 1946, Franke Park Day Camp has provided unforgettable childhood experiences for thousands of area youth. With its strong emphasis on nature education and basic camping skills, Franke Park Day Camp provides an environment which fosters cooperation, problem-solving and socialization as well as the dirty, muddy outdoor fun kids of all ages enjoy! Check out the Day Camp web link or Sign up for camp (offered each summer)
