Fort Wayne Park Tour

Salomon Farm Park

Initially established by the Salomon family in 1871, Salomon Farm Park is one of Fort Wayne’s most historic parks. With incomparable scenic views in every direction, guests of the park can find ultimate relaxation on the farm’s grounds no matter the time of year. While the park is open year-round, depending on the month you visit, you’ll be greeted with one-of-a-kind experiences for all ages. In the warmer months, enjoy the views of the wetlands, shop at their farmer’s market, and meet the animals that call Salomon Farm home. When the weather turns cold, head to the park for your family’s Christmas tree purchase or for an indoor class. These are just a few of the many, many experiences Salomon Farm Park offers to you and your family!

FAQ

Where can I find a list of their upcoming events and programs? Visit their page at fortwayneparks.org for information on all events and programs.

Can I walk around the park year-round? Yep! Salomon Farm offers a fully-paved 1.8-mile trail around the property that you can walk during the warmest and coldest of months.

Foster Park

Calling Fort Wayne home since 1912, Foster Park is just as much filled with beauty as it is history. Originally spreading across 67 acres of wooded land, Foster Park now reaches 255 acres in the heart of Fort Wayne. In these 255 acres, you’ll find seasonal flower displays, a playground for all ages, a community garden, a dog park, a golf course, and two pavilions with seating and restrooms available. If you’re in the mood to be more active, the Rivergreenway Trail measures two miles in the Foster Park area, or you can continue running, walking, biking, or rollerblading outside of the park for a much longer distance. Bring your family or just yourself – either way, you’re guaranteed a lovely day in Foster Park!

FAQ

Can I take my family photos here? Yes! The scenic park is perfect for photoshoots of all varieties. Their Bridal Glen area is also available for reservation.

Lakeside

Stretching 23.8 acres in downtown Fort Wayne, Lakeside Park has been the eyes and ears of many playdates, engagements, weddings, photoshoots, and family memories since its opening in 1908. Unique to Lakeside is their abundant rose garden, first established in 1920, which bursts with color and scent every spring and summer for all to enjoy. Also home to Lakeside is a walking path, a pond for fishing or viewing, a basketball and tennis court, and their Little Free Library for readers of all ages. Visit today to add your memory to Lakeside Park’s history!

FAQ

Do I need a permit to fish in the pond? Yes. You’ll need an Indiana fishing license to fish on-site.

Are there pavilions to rent on-site? Yep! There are two pavilions available for reservation on Lakeside’s property.

Matea Park

Fort Wayne may not be a beach town, but thankfully, Matea County Park gives us a taste of beachside, right here in The Fort. Located on 250-acres, 120 of which is reserved as a Nature Preserve, Matea offers unmatched tranquility for residents looking for a reprieve from everyday life. On-site is their 1.5-acre lake with a swimming beach for all ages, sand in-between your toes included! If you’re not in the mood for swimming or you’re visiting in a colder month, you can explore their Nature Center, walk their five miles of trails, picnic on the sprawling areas of grass, play on the playground, or simply sit and enjoy the sounds of undisturbed nature.

FAQ

Can I fish in the lake? Sure can! Just make sure you bring your Indiana fishing license along.

Parkview

We know a visit to the hospital isn’t ideal, but Parkview offers something different, no tests required: a family park for families of all ages. Onsite you’ll find a fully handicap-accessible playground with a cushioned ground for safe play, picnic gazebos for lunch and snack time, a scenic pond that’s perfect to read a book by, a paved walking trail, and an adult fitness area. While the park is only open May through October, you can spend your spring, summer, and fall days enjoying the park with your favorite people! We’ve also heard they have the best hill to roll down!

FAQ

Can I bring my dog? Yep! Dogs, on their leashes, are more than welcome to join the family fun.

Shoaff

Calling Fort Wayne home since 1955, Shoaff Park offers some of the best views in Fort Wayne, as well as the most amenities out of the surrounding parks. If you have an outdoor hobby, most likely, Shoaff offers it! Into sports? Shoaff supplies ball diamonds, soccer fields, frisbee golf, basketball courts, and tennis courts. Like to take your boat out? Shoaff Park has 1.3 miles of river bank for boating and fishing. They even host a yearly fishing contest! Into golfing? Shoaff’s golf course has 18-holes calling your name. Need to get your kids out of the house? Take them to Shoaff’s large playground or seasonal splash pad. Just looking for a peaceful place to walk or run? You’ll find three different trails on Shoaff’s property, depending on your level of interest. They weren’t kidding when they said their amenities are something to admire!

FAQ

Are there pavilions onsite? Yep! Shoaff has two pavilions available on their property.

Taylor’s Dream at Kraeger Park

Offering innovation at its finest, Taylor’s Dream Boundless Playground has been recognized and awarded for being one of the best parks in the area. Why? Taylor’s Dream offers the community a significant and monumental impact by providing a safe and fun area for kids of all ages and all abilities. The 2-acre playground includes three spots designated for certain age groups, with the heart of the area offering a splash pad that allows for wheelchair and all-ability access. In addition to the playground, there are dozens of seating areas all within viewing and public restrooms on-site. It’s certainly a “dream” that we are able to call Taylor’s Dream our own!

FAQ

Is the park open year-round? The playground is open year-round, and the splash pad is open during the warm season.