Lawton Park

A Glimpse into the Past

Dating back to 1866, Lawton Park has quite the story to tell. It started life as an Indiana State Fair venue before transforming into the city park we know today. Named after Major-General Henry W. Lawton, the park features a cannon brought back from the Philippines and a Civil War monument that honors his legacy.

History buffs will appreciate the monuments dedicated to Civil War veterans and the Philippine gun mount that offer tangible connections to our past. The Lawton Greenhouse is another historical escape - it's where the Fort Wayne Parks Department grows over 130,000 plants each year for beautifying the entire city. There's something special about enjoying modern recreation while surrounded by these quiet reminders of Fort Wayne's rich history.

Where to Find It

Spread across nearly 40 acres, Lawton Park sits on N. Clinton Street just north of downtown Fort Wayne. It's easily accessible and has become a popular community gathering spot over the years.

What's great about the location is that you can easily walk to other cool spots like Science Central and Headwaters Park, making it an excellent starting point for a day of downtown exploration. The sprawling fields, mature shade trees, and grassy areas provide plenty of space to spread out and relax.

Fun for Everyone

The park offers modern amenities for various interests. If you've got kids in tow, head to the Kids' Crossing Playground, which was updated in 2024. It now features separate areas for different age groups, including a pretty awesome spider web climbing structure, interactive play equipment, and a good old-fashioned sandbox.

One of the coolest features has to be the outdoor electronic game that's similar to whack-a-mole - it's a hit with visitors of all ages. Need a break? There are plenty of shaded spots nearby, along with picnic areas and open spaces meant for family hangouts.

Sports fans can check out the baseball and softball diamonds along 4th Street, which stay busy with games throughout the season. Across 4th Street, you can find the Lawton Skatepark - a massive 20,000-square-foot facility with bowls, ramps, and features for every skill level. Local skaters often praise it as one of the better skate parks in Indiana.

Connect with Nature

For those who love a good walk or bike ride, the park connects to the Rivergreenway trail system, a 24-mile path that follows Fort Wayne's three rivers. This makes Lawton Park an excellent jumping-off point for longer adventures that can take you to other green spaces throughout the city.

The riverside setting offers spots for fishing or enjoying water views - a peaceful escape without leaving the city.

All the Comforts

The park offers two pavilions equipped with picnic tables, making it ideal for family get-togethers or casual gatherings. The main pavilion provides a good view of all the play areas and includes a wheelchair-accessible ramp.

You'll find seasonal restrooms that are generally well-maintained, however they don't have changing tables. During warmer months, drinking fountains are available across the park, and there's plenty of free parking conveniently located around the grounds.

Community Celebrations

Throughout the year, Lawton Park transforms into a venue for various community events. It hosts portions of the cherished Three Rivers Festival, including car shows and midway attractions. Its open layout and convenient location make it a natural choice for festivals, markets, and community gatherings that bring people together.

Everyone's Welcome

With plenty of parking, restrooms, drinking fountains, and wheelchair-accessible paths, the park strives to be comfortable and convenient for all visitors. Lawton Park balances its historical significance with modern recreational offerings.

The park welcomes visitors daily from 6AM to 11PM, giving you plenty of time to enjoy everything it has to offer, whether you're an early bird or prefer evening outings.