First Ward Park
A vibrant 4.6-acre urban park in Uptown, featuring fountains, a playground, and musical instruments, known for community festivals.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
First Ward Park
Best Time
Beat the heat and crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant 4.6-acre urban park in Uptown, featuring fountains, a playground, and musical instruments, known for community festivals.
"This park offers a lot more play options for kids and great location, even at nighttime."
Validated Parking Hack
Park at the nearby indoor market garage for free parking; just get your ticket validated! :car:
Evening Enjoyment
The park is well-lit and enjoyable even after dark, with plenty of activities for a fun evening. :flashlight:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Interactive Musical Instruments
Throughout the park
Engage with large, playful musical installations that add a unique auditory dimension to your park visit.
Splash Pad & Playground
Near the climbing playground
A hit with kids, this area features water jets and a fun climbing structure for active play.
Open Fields & City Views
Central lawn area
Spacious green areas perfect for picnics, relaxation, and enjoying scenic views of the Uptown skyline.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Street Parking & Event Awareness
Family Fun & Amenities
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Validated Parking Hack
Park at the nearby indoor market garage for free parking; just get your ticket validated! :car:
Evening Enjoyment
The park is well-lit and enjoyable even after dark, with plenty of activities for a fun evening. :flashlight:
Bring Swim Gear
Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the kids to enjoy the splash pad! :swimupstream:
Event Parking Alert
Beware of street parking tickets during stadium events; check local schedules. :warning:
Tips
from all over the internet
Validated Parking Hack
Park at the nearby indoor market garage for free parking; just get your ticket validated! :car:
Evening Enjoyment
The park is well-lit and enjoyable even after dark, with plenty of activities for a fun evening. :flashlight:
Bring Swim Gear
Don't forget swimsuits and towels for the kids to enjoy the splash pad! :swimupstream:
Event Parking Alert
Beware of street parking tickets during stadium events; check local schedules. :warning:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
First Ward Park is praised for its family-friendly amenities like a splash pad and playground, along with its scenic city views and interactive musical instruments. However, some visitors have expressed concerns regarding the presence of homeless individuals and the cleanliness of the park's fountains, suggesting a need for increased security and maintenance.
"Made our way to this park during their shout festival. Everything was closing up since it was 8 pm, but there were plenty of things to do. They have seesaw for the kids, a spider web jungle gym, exercise equipment, restrooms, a huge field, and seating locations for everyone. This park offers a lot more of play options for kids and great location. Even though it was nighttime, you were still able to see and have a great time."
Jennifer E.
"Nice, well maintained park, lots of kids playing in the water, open fields, and a number of shade trees too."
Chip Edwards
"Great park in a great area with city views. Lots of parking and shaded areas. There’s a great indoor market nearby with food/drinks and better restrooms than the park. If you go to both and park at the market garage then you can get free parking. Make sure to get your ticket validated"
A Snow
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
First Ward Park is located at 301 E. Seventh Street in Uptown. It's accessible by public transport and offers street parking, though event days can be tricky.
Yes, there is street parking available, but be cautious during stadium events as you may receive a ticket. Parking at the nearby indoor market garage and getting your ticket validated is a great free option.
Yes, the park is accessible via the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, though some parts may be dark, so a light is recommended.
First Ward Park is conveniently located in Uptown, making it easily walkable from many surrounding areas. Public transportation options also serve the Uptown district.
Parking is recommended on 8th St between N. Caldwell St. and N. Davison St., or on N. Caldwell St. along the apartments. Avoid 'Park Mobile' spaces.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, First Ward Park is a public park and is free to enter and enjoy.
The park is generally open from dawn until dusk, but specific hours can vary. It's known to be enjoyable and visible even at night.
Entry to the park itself is free. However, special events like the Festival Colombiano Multicultural may require tickets for entry or specific attractions.
No, the splash pad and playground are free to use for all visitors to First Ward Park.
Information on reserving space for private events is not readily available, but the park is a popular spot for public gatherings and festivals.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Kids can enjoy a splash pad, a spider web jungle gym, seesaws, and a large open field for running around.
Restrooms are available within the park, though some reviews suggest the facilities at the nearby indoor market might be better maintained.
The park features outdoor exercise equipment for visitors to use.
Absolutely! The park has open fields and seating areas perfect for picnics.
While the park has many family-friendly features, some visitors have noted the presence of homeless individuals and suggested increased park security for a safer environment.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Food vendors are often present during special events and festivals held at the park, such as the Festival Colombiano Multicultural.
There's a great indoor market nearby with food and drink options, offering a good alternative to park facilities.
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is permitted, making it ideal for picnics.
There are no dedicated cafes or restaurants within the park itself, but numerous options are available in the surrounding Uptown area.
Festivals like the Festival Colombiano Multicultural feature a variety of Latin American cuisine, music, and cultural offerings.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers pretty views of Uptown, the fountains, and the open fields, making for great photo opportunities.
The open fields and city skyline provide a beautiful backdrop for golden hour shots, especially in the late afternoon.
Yes, the interactive musical instruments are unique features that make for fun and engaging photographs.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits.
Early mornings offer softer light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light with city views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The large open field is perfect for kids to run around and burn off energy. 🚶 Budget Travelers
You can save money by packing your own picnic and taking advantage of the free parking hack at the nearby indoor market garage by getting your ticket validated. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The park is also a great spot for capturing candid moments of families enjoying the playground and splash pad. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Family Fun at First Ward Park
The park also features a large, open field perfect for running, playing games, or simply spreading out a picnic blanket. Parents often appreciate the convenience of the park's amenities, including restrooms and nearby dining options.
Navigating Parking and Access
For those who prefer alternative transportation, the park is accessible via the Little Sugar Creek Greenway, which is great for biking and walking.
However, be aware that some sections of the greenway can be dark, so carrying a light is advisable. The park's location in Uptown also makes it easily reachable by public transport, with numerous bus routes serving the area. Events and Community Gatherings
These events often feature live performances, food vendors, and activities for all ages, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere. The park's open fields and central location make it an ideal venue for these types of gatherings. Even outside of scheduled events, the park offers a pleasant environment for casual enjoyment, with features like interactive musical instruments that add a unique element of fun.
Visitors can enjoy the city views, relax on the grass, or engage with the park's amenities, making it a versatile space for both planned events and spontaneous enjoyment. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit