Lawton Park
A 40-acre urban oasis in Fort Wayne, featuring a renovated playground, skate park, greenhouse, and fort replica.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for play
Lawton Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, ideal for play
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 40-acre urban oasis in Fort Wayne, featuring a renovated playground, skate park, greenhouse, and fort replica.
"Great park for kids with a recently updated playground and convenient free parking for downtown."
🚗 Free Downtown Parking
Utilize Lawton Park for free daytime parking when visiting downtown Fort Wayne. :car:
☀️ Shade & Seating
Plenty of shaded seating available, perfect for parents watching kids play. :sunwithface:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Newly Renovated Playground
Central area of the park
Enjoy modern play structures for all ages, recently updated in May 2024. Fun for kids with plenty of seating for parents.
Skate Park
Near the entrance
A dedicated space for skaters and BMX riders, offering a place to practice tricks and enjoy the sport.
Greenhouse
East side of the park
Discover a variety of plants and flowers in this tranquil greenhouse, offering a peaceful escape.
Fort Replica
Near the playground
A fun, interactive fort structure that sparks imagination for younger visitors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Playground Upgrades & Accessibility
Parking & Park Usage
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Free Downtown Parking
Utilize Lawton Park for free daytime parking when visiting downtown Fort Wayne. :car:
☀️ Shade & Seating
Plenty of shaded seating available, perfect for parents watching kids play.
♿️ Accessible Play
Wheelchair ramp at the main pavilion makes the park more accessible for all.
💧 Restroom Availability
Public restrooms are available, though they may be used by various community members. :toilet:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Free Downtown Parking
Utilize Lawton Park for free daytime parking when visiting downtown Fort Wayne. :car:
☀️ Shade & Seating
Plenty of shaded seating available, perfect for parents watching kids play.
♿️ Accessible Play
Wheelchair ramp at the main pavilion makes the park more accessible for all.
💧 Restroom Availability
Public restrooms are available, though they may be used by various community members. :toilet:
🌳 Green Space for All
Enjoy the expansive green areas for picnics or relaxation.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lawton Park is a well-maintained public space praised for its recently updated playground and convenient free downtown parking. Visitors appreciate the ample seating and accessible features. Some note that restrooms are open to all and can be used by the unhoused community, and the popular giant slide is no longer present.
"Large well kept park. Large playground area. Pavilion and bathrooms available."
CMP
"Playground has been recently updated. The giant slide is no longer there. Over all it’s a very nice park. If you go too early please be aware that this is an area that the unhoused come and use the restrooms to freshen up."
Foundasha Booker
"Lots of seating for parents. You can see all 3 play areas from the primary pavillion. Pavillion also has a wheelchair ramp. Secondary Pavillion with picnic tables has a couple of people living under it. Drinking fountain and bathrooms available."
Sierah Barnhart
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lawton Park is located near downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana. It's easily accessible by car and offers free daytime parking, which is a great perk for downtown visitors.
Yes, Lawton Park offers free parking, making it a convenient spot for those visiting downtown Fort Wayne.
Lawton Park has pavilions available, which can be used for gatherings and events. It's a popular spot for community activities.
Absolutely! With its playground, skate park, and green spaces, Lawton Park is a great destination for a family day out or a relaxing afternoon.
Lawton Park is conveniently located close to downtown. Walking or biking are also great options if you're already in the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Lawton Park is a public recreation area and does not have an admission fee. Entry is free for all visitors.
As a public park, Lawton Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific hours for facilities like restrooms or the greenhouse may vary.
For general park visits, no advance booking is required. If you plan to reserve a pavilion for a large event, it's advisable to check with the local parks department.
Lawton Park occasionally hosts events like the Action Sports Festival. It's best to check local event listings or the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation website for updates.
While not explicitly mentioned in the provided content, public parks often have leash laws. It's recommended to check local ordinances regarding pets in parks.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Lawton Park offers a renovated playground, a skate park, a greenhouse, and a fort replica, providing a variety of recreational options for all ages.
Yes, the playground has been updated with new structures designed for both big and little kids, ensuring fun for younger visitors.
The park features pavilions, picnic tables, public restrooms, drinking fountains, and ample seating.
Yes, public restrooms are available within the park.
Visitors often praise the recently updated playground and the convenient free parking for downtown access.
📸 📸 Photography
The newly renovated playground offers vibrant backdrops, while the greenhouse provides a more serene setting. The fort replica can also make for fun, playful shots.
Yes, Lawton Park is a great location for capturing candid moments during events like the Action Sports Festival.
The unique outdoor electronic 'wac-a-mole' type activity mentioned in reviews offers a fun and interactive photo opportunity for all ages.
Late afternoons often provide softer lighting, ideal for portraits and capturing the park's atmosphere. Weekday mornings offer fewer distractions for focused photography.
Drone usage in public parks is often regulated. It's recommended to check with the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department for specific drone policies.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Don't forget to explore the fort replica, which adds an extra layer of imaginative play for kids. The park also offers convenient amenities like restrooms and drinking fountains, making a day trip here hassle-free. Remember that the park is open and accessible to all, so be prepared for a diverse community presence.
🛹 Skaters & Action Sports Enthusiasts
Events like the annual Action Sports Festival are held here, drawing a crowd and showcasing impressive talent. If you're looking for a place to shred or simply watch some impressive moves, Lawton Park's skate park is the spot to be.
🚶♀️ Urban Explorers & Day-Trippers
Beyond its practical parking benefits, the park itself is a pleasant green space to relax in. You can enjoy a picnic, stroll through the grounds, or visit the greenhouse for a moment of tranquility before continuing your exploration of the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Playground Paradise: What's New at Lawton Park
The park's commitment to accessibility is evident with features like a wheelchair ramp at the primary pavilion, allowing more families to enjoy the facilities. Parents will appreciate the ample seating and clear sightlines across the play areas from the main pavilion, making supervision easier.
This updated playground is a major draw for families visiting Fort Wayne, offering a safe and engaging environment for kids to burn off energy while parents relax. The vibrant new equipment is perfect for capturing fun photos and creating lasting memories.
Navigating Downtown: Parking & Park Access
Beyond parking, Lawton Park itself is a valuable community resource. It serves as a hub for various activities, including sports festivals and community gatherings. The park's proximity to downtown also makes it easily accessible for those who prefer to walk or bike, further enhancing its appeal as a convenient urban oasis.
It's worth noting that as a public space, Lawton Park's facilities, including restrooms, are open to everyone. While this ensures accessibility, it means visitors should be prepared for a diverse range of users.
Beyond the Playground: Other Attractions
For those seeking a more tranquil experience, the park features a greenhouse, offering a peaceful retreat filled with diverse plant life. Additionally, a fort replica provides a whimsical element, sparking imagination and offering a fun backdrop for photos, especially for younger visitors.
+1These diverse amenities contribute to Lawton Park's appeal as a well-rounded recreational area, catering to a wide range of interests beyond just children's play.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit