If you’ve ever found yourself wandering the west bank of the Fox River in downtown Green Bay, you’ve definitely walked past it. Or maybe you were lured there by the smell of food truck tacos and the sound of a bass guitar echoing off the water. Leicht Memorial Park Green Bay WI isn’t just another city park with a couple of benches and a dusty path. Honestly, it’s kinda the living room of the Broadway District, and if you haven’t spent a Sunday evening there with a cold drink in your hand, you’re missing out on the real Green Bay vibe.
The park sits right at 128 Dousman Street. It’s a prime piece of real estate that could have easily been another condo complex or a parking lot, but instead, it’s 2.59 acres of open space that somehow feels way bigger than it is.
A Quick Reality Check on the History
People love to talk about the Packers, but Green Bay’s history goes way deeper than a football stadium. There’s a rumor that Leicht Memorial Park sits on the original site of Fort Howard, a US military installation from the War of 1812. While historians aren't 100% certain of the exact footprint—forts were messy, sprawling things—there is compelling evidence that this very patch of green was part of that old military life.
There’s even a small monument there dedicated to Zachary Taylor. Yeah, the 12th President of the United States. He was a commander at Fort Howard long before he was in the White House. It’s sort of wild to think about a future president pacing these riverbanks while you're just trying to figure out if the fish are biting.
Speaking of history, the park itself didn't just appear out of nowhere. The land was donated by the Leicht Transfer & Storage Company back in the day. Specifically, Russell Leicht requested the name to honor his family's legacy. The City Council made it official in July 2001. Since then, it’s evolved from a quiet memorial to a high-energy festival ground.
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What’s Actually Happening at Leicht Memorial Park Green Bay WI?
If you show up on a random Tuesday morning, it’s peaceful. You’ll see a few folks casting lines for catfish, bass, or sheephead. The docks are actually pretty great for shore fishing. But that quiet is deceptive.
The park is the home base for the Levitt AMP Green Bay Music Series. This isn't your average "guy with an acoustic guitar" park gig. We’re talking professional, diverse acts ranging from the Lemon Bucket Orkestra to local favorites like Traveling Suitcase. For 2025 and 2026, the lineup has been stacked. These shows are free, which is basically the best price for world-class music.
The igNight Markets and Beyond
If you want to see the park at its absolute peak, you have to hit an igNight Market.
- The Vibe: Imagine 40+ vendors selling handmade art, giant yard games, and food trucks lined up as far as you can see.
- The Glow: Sometimes they even have a hot air balloon glow where 15+ balloons light up the sky right next to the river. It’s surreal.
- The Sound: There’s always live original music, usually ending with a headliner that gets the whole crowd moving.
Let's talk about the Draft City Music Festival. When the NFL Draft came to town, this park was the epicenter of the "Touchdown Downtown" celebration. It wasn't just for sports fans; it was a massive party with exclusive craft beers and fireworks. It proved that this "small" park can handle a massive, electric crowd without breaking a sweat.
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The Massive Overhaul You Need to Know About
Right now, the park is undergoing a major transformation. If you've visited recently and seen some construction tape, don't worry—it’s for a good reason. On Broadway, Inc. and the City are currently in the middle of a massive Capital Campaign.
They aren't just planting a few more flowers. We’re talking about a brand-new permanent stage and a pavilion. Phase 2 and Phase 3 of the project include a Biergarten (which, let's be real, is very Wisconsin) and indoor rentable spaces for year-round events. The goal is to turn this from a summer-only spot into a place that draws 150,000 people annually.
Honestly, the lack of permanent restrooms has been a bit of a gripe for years. The new pavilion is finally addressing that with proper facilities and a beverage concession stand. It’s basically the park growing up and getting serious about being an entertainment powerhouse.
Tips for Your Visit
Parking can be a bit of a headache during big events, so don't expect to pull right up to the grass. Your best bet is usually the Main Street Parking Ramp or the nearby lots on North Broadway and North Adams Street. Most are just a 5-minute walk away.
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If you're hungry and there isn't a festival happening, you're literally steps away from Titletown Brewing Company and Copper State Brewing. You can grab a beer and a burger and then walk over to the park to watch the sunset over the Fox River. It's the quintessential Green Bay afternoon.
Why It Still Matters
In a world where everything feels over-scheduled and expensive, Leicht Memorial Park Green Bay WI remains a bit of an anomaly. It’s a place where you can just be. You can bring your dog (on a leash, please), a bag of s’mores ingredients during the winter fests, or just a fishing pole.
It bridges the gap between the city’s industrial roots and its future as a cultural hub. Whether you're there for a quiet walk along the nature trails or a high-decibel concert, it feels like the soul of the Broadway District.
What to do next:
Check the official Downtown Green Bay event calendar before you head out. The summer schedule for the Levitt AMP series usually drops in late spring. If you're a local, consider looking into the naming opportunities for the new pavilion—it’s a cool way to literally put your mark on the city's history. Grab a lawn chair, check the weather, and make sure you're there for at least one sunset this season.