The park's ice trail is an 800-foot-long frozen path that mimics the winding movement of a river.
Howard Park utilizes a geothermal heat exchange system, which is one of the largest installations of its kind in a public park setting.
The 2019 redevelopment of the park was part of a broader $36 million initiative to revitalize the South Bend riverfront.
The park features an 'adventure playground' designed with ADA-compliant surfaces and sensory-rich play equipment.
The site hosts a permanent public art collection integrated into the landscape design.
Howard Park is a 13-acre urban recreational space situated along the east bank of the St. Joseph River in South Bend. The park features a permanent, refrigerated ice trail and a pond that serves as a multi-purpose splash pad during warmer months. It includes a modern event center with floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlooking the riverfront landscape. The site is designed with interactive water features, a playground with integrated sensory elements, and an open-air pavilion. A pedestrian bridge connects the park to the downtown South Bend core. The grounds utilize geothermal energy for the ice refrigeration system to improve year-round sustainability.
The pedestrian bridge overlooking the park with the St. Joseph River and the downtown skyline in the background.
Check the official website's live webcam to gauge current crowding levels on the ice trail or splash pad.
Bring a waterproof bag for electronic devices if planning to utilize the splash pad area.
Visit during the evening to see the permanent LED lighting installations illuminate the park pathways.
Do not attempt to use the ice trail with outdoor street shoes; rental skates are provided for safety.
The ice trail is seasonal, operating during winter months, while the splash pad is operational during summer months.
Athletic footwear is required for the ice trail; swimwear is required for the splash pad area.
