IMG 7415sm 

 

Powell Park    

Size in acres: 0.18 Acres

Official City Park since 2023

Powell Park is located at 2620 Weisser Park Avenue at the intersection of Pontiac and Weisser Park Avenue.  For more detailed location information, check out the General Park Map


IMG 7417sm


History: The park like setting was officially renamed in honor of Lester and Hester Powell, who tirelessly maintained the area for the last 20 years. With the park newly refreshed and invested in as a part of the Southeast Strategy Update, City departments will showcase other ways the Southeast Strategy is progressing and some action items that have already been implemented. Read more....


IMG 7418sm

 
WHAT TO DO

Scroll down for more information about our park features:


IMG 7423sm


The newly reconstructed neighborhood park, located in the Renaissance Pointe neighborhood, offers a basketball court, gathering space for families, and areas to rest.


IMG 7424sm

 

McKinnie Commons Banners slide

Project Overview

The McKinnie Ave. and South Anthony Blvd. intersection is a highly visible and traveled commercial node.  The excess right-of-way created by the northernmost slip lane along McKinnie Ave. is being repurposed and transformed into a community gathering space for activities and events.  Several input meetings were hosted by the Southeast Area Partnership and the City to help create the design concept for this space.  The space features a bandshell that could have reoccurring or impromptu performances, large urban swings, space for food trucks and pop-up vendors, outdoor dining areas, bike racks,  decorative lighting, and shade sails.  Read more about McKinnie Commons and the history of this project.
 

Fzv1hCFWYAIIYpE

McKinnie Commons (1815 McKinnie Ave.) officially opened on June 28th!  Read more about McKinnie Commons!  

Enjoy some photos of the Opening Celebration:


Fzv1hCGWwAAgOvl

 Fzv1hCGXsAU3tde

Fzv1hCJWYAAhrsF

IMG 2104

IMG 2113

IMG 2114

IMG 2127

 

 

 

18699748 1555829037763231 2020788485834301359 o

Franklin School Park
 
 

Size in acres: 4.25 acres

Since: March 2016

Franklin School Park is located at 1903 Saint Mary's Avenue. 

History

Franklin School Park sits on the site of the former Franklin School building.  The school was built in 1921  and was last used for students in 1981. Fort Wayne Community Schools sold the building to the U.S. Navy, which used it for a U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Center. The Fort Wayne Police Department also used the building until moving out in April 2012, which left it vacant. In 2016, the City demolished the building leaving only the building's entrance arches to be re-used as design elements for the new park. 


IMG 20160901 095445216IMG 20160901 095531073

 

 

Pavilion:

 

Phase I

The renovation of the arches has been completed.  This phase also includes construction of family restrooms in the pavilion, site work and a new splash pad. 


Franklin school photo

IMG 1426 2 IMG 1429 2

 
Grand Opening of Franklin School Park Phase 1

Phase I of Franklin School Park opened in 2016.  The splash pad is available seasonally from 9 am-9 pm.  The park is open from 6 am-11 pm daily.  Enjoy the below photos of the completed project.

Franklin 1
 DSCN3095 2

DSCN3086IMG 20160901 095558253

Phase II

DSCF0334 DSCF0369

The photos show the new parking lot and concrete patio with sidewalk as well as the pavilion under construction.  

 

 IMG 4682      Pavilion with sidewalks in front

 

The inside of the pavilion includes new restroom facilities, a kitchen, and a large multi-purpose room that can now be used as a year-round rental facility.  The renovation also included all new heating and air conditioning so the building can be used all year.  The site work consisted of a new parking lot with lighting, a new concrete patio with trees, seat walls, and a new sidewalk connecting to the street.

 
IMG 4693      pavilion at night from side 2


The new David Hefner Pavilion and the $1.8 million Franklin School Park is now complete.  Read more about the project and all of the neighborhood advocates and community leaders that came together to make this project a reality. 

 

Franklin Park  Franklin Park 3

Franklin Park 5  Franklin Park 6

 

 

 

 

 

 

053023 promenadepark Photo credit: Stan Sussina, The Journal Gazette, Fort Wayne, Indiana

 

Promenade Park 
202 W. Superior Street, Fort Wayne, Indiana
(260) 427-6000 

Open: 6 am-11 pm daily

Learn more about the Riverfront
Promenade Park Map
Check out the Riverfront brochure

 

Promenade Park, the first phase of our transformational Riverfront Fort Wayne Project opened in 2019!  Highlights of the opening weekend included the ribbon cutting and various arts performances,  boating and recreation as well as nature and our rivers’ ecosystem activities. 

Follow us on social media and sign up for the newsletter at RiverfrontFW.org to stay current on updates!

Before you visit the park check out the 2023 Parking Options

 

IMG 3714 sm


The Grand Opening Celebration was held for Promenade Park August 9-11, 2019.  Approximately 35,000 people came to visit the park that weekend.  Park visitors continue to visit the park and enjoy all the amenities the park offers!  Please check out the Park Amenity list and the Parking Map (Visit Fort Wayne) to learn more about the park.  Feel free to visit daily from 6 am-11 pm! 
 

 

  IMG 7024sm

 
Thanks for celebrating Dragon Boat Races with us!

Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation and Riverfront Fort Wayne celebrated the fourth year of Promenade Park at the  “Dragon Boat Races” on August 4-5, 2023. Around 5,000 people joined us for the two days to learn more about Dragon Boat Racing, take part in family friendly activities provided by the Fort Wayne Chinese Friends and Family, watch traditional Chinese performances, listen to music by "We are CheckMark", enjoy floating fire pits on the St. Marys River featuring Fire Dancers, participate in Tai Chi, or especially to compete in the 2023 Races!  We are so thankful for the 11 teams that competed this year as well as the Fort Wayne Chinese Friends and Family Association and McDonalds Owners/Operators of Greater Indiana and Southwest Michigan for making this event possible. Want to see more pictures and check out the teams? Check out the Dragon Boat Races link to learn more!

DJI 0276


Mark your calendar to celebrate Dragon Boat Races with us again on August 2-3rd, 2024!  

More information is available at RiverfrontFW.org or 260-427-6000.

2 A pic 1


Riverfront 2 A officially opened on June 27, 2023!  Pictured above Steve McDaniel, Director (far left), Mayor Tom Henry (in the middle) and the four Park Commissioners. Construction for 2 B will be at least a year and a half.

Enjoy a few photos from 2 A!

Riverfront 2A bench area  

 

Riverfront 2A Pathway 3


Mayor Henry Leads Riverfront IIB Groundbreaking Celebration

 

group shotsm

September 20, 2023 - Progress along Fort Wayne’s riverfront continues as Mayor Tom Henry today joined the City of Fort Wayne’s Community Development Division, Parks and Recreation Department, and community leaders for a groundbreaking ceremony to celebrate the start of construction on Riverfront Phase IIb Public Open Space. Read more....




You can now see an animated version of Phase IIB!


Calendar

RFW-Logo-Hori-RGB-01

We're lighting up the river with year-round programs.  

  

family at promenade sm



Upcoming events include: Sunday Heritage Concert Series, Open Mic Nights WIth Kyla J., Don't Act Your Age: Adult Game Nights,  Yoga on the Riverfront, Dance Promenade!, Intro to Hula Hoop Dance, Be Your Own Artist: Mask Making, Confluence Kitchen: Oktoberfest Continued!,  Sweet Breeze Canal Boat Cruises Riverfront Halloween Hunt, and much MORE! Check out the on-line calendar for information on all of these exciting programs!

Just ANNOUNCED:

Spirit of History

Friday, November 3 from 6:30-7:30pm

Pavilion @ Promenade Park

Free – code 490400

A tour of Fort Wayne’s history paired with its hauntings and vices. We will endeavor to bring history to life, by telling tales and breathing life back into the souls that still haunt our building and town - relax and enjoy our tour as we take you on a walk through time. Recommended for ages 13. Min. 10, Max. 20.  To register, call 260-427-6000 or register on-line for Spirit of History for this FREE program.

 

Interested in learning about Urban Birdwatching?  

Learn more....

Birdwatching Brochuresm

 

  

 68239915 2311453279094493 4915324645588074496 o 2311453275761160

 

Volunteer or Become a Sponsor for a Riverfront Event!

Are you interested in volunteering or sponsoring an event for Riverfront Fort Wayne? We have plenty of great opportunities for volunteers and sponsors to help Riverfront events and programs be successful! Interested? Contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (260) 427-6248.

 

67872069 2311453532427801 2382156194287452160 o 2311453529094468

 

PNC Playground

The PNC Playground is a fully accessible playground to be enjoyed by all! Do you have questions about the PNC Playground?  

 

Family canopy walk sm

 

Parkview Tree Canopy Trail

The Parkview Tree Canopy Trail is a stunner offering unique views of Parkview Park as well as the ever evolving skyline.  


    IMG 1254


Canoes & Kayaks

If you have your own canoes, kayaks, paddleboards  or other watercraft feel free to explore Promenade Park by water!  Fort Wayne Outfitters rents watercraft too and is adjacent to the park! For motorized watercraft please be aware of the New Law Aims to Address Increased River Traffic Safety by establishing the Idle Speed Zone that went into effect on June 8, 2023.


Sweet Breeze at Promenade

 

Sweet Breeze

Ride aboard Sweet Breeze, Fort Wayne’s authentic canal boat replica. Purchase TICKETS TODAY!


 Canal sm

Doermer Kids' Canal & Rotary Fountain

The Doermer Kids' Canal & Rotary Fountain are popular draws for both the very young and old alike.  You will be able to enjoy these features until September 25th this year!   

 

pavilion sm


Rental Opportunities in Promenade Park 

Generally, the spaces available for rent in Promenade Park are the Park Foundation Pavilion (inside and outside), Auer Lawn and Sweetwater Band Shell East, Old National Bank Plaza and Sweetwater Band Shell west, and the historic Wells Street Bridge. The only space that is entirely covered, and therefore weather-proof, is the indoor portion of the Park Foundation Pavilion.

Additional information about Rental Opportunities at Promenade Park is now available. 

Please e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to inquire about dates available for your next gathering.

 

equipment sm


Fun & Games

At Promenade Park there are 3 Ping Pong Tables, 2 Cornhole games and 1 Foosball table for your enjoyment! 


  Ted SB outside

 

teds snack + bar  

The new teds snack + bar is now officially OPEN!  Hours will be Wed.-Sat. 11 am-8 pm and Sundays from 11 am-3 pm.  Guests will be able to grab a convient bite to eat, or a quick snack as well as cold refreshments.

Teds snack bar

Learn more about teds snack + bar by checking out their web site: teds snack + bar.   



JG Dining Garden sm

 

The Journal Gazette Foundation Dining Gardens

The Dining Gardens provide a perfect opportunity to either bring your favorite food for a picnic or stop in at a local eatery including teds Snack + Bar (located at the park/opening in May) and then relax at one of the convenient dining areas in the park.


band shell sm


Sweetwater Bandshell and the Old National Bank Plaza


Looking for inter entertainment?   Go to RiverFrontFW.org to learn more! 

 

 convergence at Night


Promenade Park Sculpture

Mayor Tom Henry and Parks and Recreation Director Steve McDaniel officially unveiled the first piece of Promenade Park to the public on July 26, 2019. “Convergence, Linda Howard, 2018, presented by the Waterfield Foundation” sits on the southeast corner of Promenade Park, near the intersection of Superior and Harrison streets. Mayor Henry and McDaniel shared their excitement for the sculpture, especially as it means the opening of the first phase of Riverfront Fort Wayne is getting closer.  Read more...


  
IMG 1951sm


IMG 7801 sm


Little Creek Bioswale


What is the Little Creek Bioswale? Learn more...
This project is partly funded by:
GLRI logo
 

 
pavilion 1


Park Foundation Pavilion


The Fort Wayne Park Foundation, Inc. is pleased to announce its support of Promenade Park by raising funds for the construction of the Park Foundation Pavilion. With generous contributions from area foundations and individuals, the Foundation raised $1,000,000 which was generously matched with $500,000 from the Community Foundation of Greater Fort Wayne. In addition, the Park Foundation pledged $150,000 from its unrestricted endowment funds to support the project.  

Check out the
News Release for additional information or the Riverfront web site!

Ready to find out more about how to reserve the Park Foundation Pavilion for your event?  Please e-mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  


 

steps small


Riverfront Endowment Donations

The Fort Wayne Park Foundation invites families to become a part of local history by supporting Promenade Park. A gift of $500 will be recognized with an inscription on a Greenscape Step within the Park. It's similar to buying a brick. The purpose of this campaign is to create a legacy endowment for Promenade Park. The Promenade Endowment will help support improvements, updates and programming along the rivers, and will be operated by the Fort Wayne Park Foundation, a nonprofit charity. All donations are tax-deductible and can be made securely at the Park Foundation website. Learn more: https://fwparkfoundation.org/product/donate/ 

DSC04542 sm

 

Donations

Donations are needed for Promenade Park for an on-going maintenance endowment.  Individual donations may be given on-line.  For corporate donations please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., Manager of Development, at 260-427-6026.  

 

DJI 0091 web 

 RFW 013 General Trifold 4 Revised 3 3 22

 
Check out the Riverfront Brochure

IMG 1280 sm

 

 67846059 2311452855761202 5041518159203401728 o 2311452852427869

 

 Day viewsm

IMG 2015sm

Thanks to Soarin' Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation Center for their presentation at the Spring Celebration at Promenade Park!!

 
IMG 2065sm


Soar 7



Dining garden sm

Bench 2

Promenade swing 1

Promenade walk trail

Promenade nature 1

Promenade 3 pt final

 

Promenade 1

Promenade construction

Camp ACTIVenture Week 1 Splash Pads 3

 Paddlers

 


cooking 3 sm


2022 Testimonials

My 5 year old son loved Farm Camp! This was his first year and on the first day he asked to come back next summer! Laura

This is a great beginner camp for your child's first time at camp!  Everyone is friendly and welcoming! Isabella

This year I have a son in FIT and a daughter in the CIT programs. They love this camp because of all the time spent outdoors, creek time, animal time, etc. and it's very organized structure with flexibility.  We've always been impressed with the counselors too!  Lots of positivity and healthy fun.  Janet

Farm Camp has been an enriching and educational part of our kids' summers for the past two years.  We have nothing but great things to say and can not wait for next year!  Jenna

bubbles1sm


Testimonials from previous years:

Our kids loved learning about and taking care of the animals, the tractor rides, outside games, and playtime, and just being on the farm! -Jaime M.

We can’t say enough good things! My kids came home with stories, sharing about the animals, crafts they made, and new games! They’re only sad it has to end. -Stacy L.

Both of my kids really enjoyed Farm Camp this year! My daughter attended 2 years ago and said this year was much better! I personally loved how easy drop off and pick up were! The car line was way more efficient than walking my kids inside! I would love to see photos of our kids involved in activities during the week! I think this would help promote the camp in the future! -Jessi R. 

My son has really enjoyed this week.  This is the first year he has done it and he is already asking about next year-great camp well run.  Sahara T.

Jac said "I really loved camp a bunch! I really loved the counselors too, they were really nice! Joy C.

Chris Salomon truly gave the city of Fort Wayne a gift with giving his farm-children are able to experience life like many of their forefathers did, but they will not-it is a true blessing to our community. Monica L.

This camp was a wonderful experience that will stay with my daughter for years to come. Jennifer H.

Farm Camp gives our children life skills on a safe and beautiful farm close to home and without anything "plugged in", thank you.  Rebecca E.

It is fun and you get to do a lot of fun things.  My favorite part was taking care of the animals-especially the little white chicken that is not Rex. (Emma)

My 4 yr. old son really enjoyed the morning camp.  It was great, he got to pet goats, bunnies and even learned about bats, his favorite was the mud puddle day, it was really good. Patricia R.

I love this program.  I travel all the way from Illinois just to do it. Rebecca K.




 

RFW Logo Hori RGB 01

IMAP.NEW

NOW AVAILABLE!  Search for parks, trails, activities and more.

We want your feedback!

new_blue_64x64Take our on-line survey now!
This quick and easy survey will only take 1 minute or less and will provide us with valuable information!

Translate Content

enfrderues