Naftzger Park

Urban Oasis in Downtown

Tucked between Douglas Avenue and St. Francis Street in downtown Wichita, Naftzger Park offers a refreshing pocket of green amid the city's concrete landscape. Born from a Naftzger family bequest in the late 70s, this space has evolved dramatically over the years. The recent renovation wasn't just cosmetic - it transformed the entire park into a modern space for visitors to gather and relax.

Located between the Old Town and Wichita's entertainment district, the park features artificial turf across its main area - a practical choice that maintains a green appearance year-round without the maintenance requirements of natural grass.

What You'll Find Here

The park's open design makes it feel spacious despite its compact footprint. The Evergy Pavilion stands ready to host everything from acoustic sets to community speakers, while a sizable LED screen lights up with movies, big games, and represents a dynamic backdrop during events.

Looking to unwind? Stretch out on the lawn with a book, unpack a picnic lunch, or toss a football around with friends. There's plenty of seating scattered throughout when you need a break - good spots for people-watching or enjoying takeout from one of the nearby eateries.

Behind the stage sits a modest dog park area - mostly concrete, so not exactly a puppy paradise, but functional for downtown dwellers needing a quick spot for their four-legged friends. On hot Kansas days, the water/splash element provides a place for families with children to cool off.

What's Happening

The park frequently hosts events, with a calendar that includes outdoor concerts, movie nights, morning yoga sessions, and community gatherings.

The Friday vintage market attracts various shoppers, while seasonal festivals take place throughout the year. There's free WiFi throughout the park if you need to check emails or browse while visiting.

Part of the Neighborhood

The park is integrated with downtown, surrounded by restaurants, shops, and cafe patios. You can find breakfast at nearby Homegrown (known for their homemade poptarts) or classic diner fare at the Old Mill Tasty Shop before visiting the park.

Waiting for a table at a nearby restaurant? The park offers a pleasant alternative to standing awkwardly on the sidewalk. The park is framed by an interesting mix of historic and modern buildings.

A word about parking - it can be tricky, especially during popular events or food truck gatherings. But if you're already exploring downtown on foot, you'll appreciate how the park sits right in the middle of everything. Open daily from 6AM to midnight, Naftzger Park is open daily from 6AM to midnight.