The sun is shining, birds are chirping, and a cool breeze brushes over Lake Superior. The heart of the summer season is officially here, and Superior residents are making the most of the City of Superior’s incredible parks and programs. It should come as no surprise that summer is the busiest season for the City’s Parks, Recreation and Forestry team.
“It’s so fun to see how summer brings the parks to life,” says Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director Bridgit Maruska. “Seeing families at the splash pad, ball fields, kids and teens at the skate park, concerts in our parks, folks in the Superior Municipal Forest hiking, and boating, our park system is Superior in so many ways.”
From grand park openings and live concerts to a full lineup of Fourth of July festivities and even goats, the Parks, Recreation and Forestry Department has been working tirelessly for months on end to pull off what has become the best summer in Superior to date.
At the forefront of this success is the city’s continued dedication to improving and beautifying parks citywide. The following completed projects are just the beginning of a series of investments designed to increase opportunities for recreation and fun across Superior.
“We want Superior to be a great place to grow up, and a great place to grow old,” Mayor Jim Paine states. “In Superior, you never have to stop being a kid.”
Wade Bowl Splash Pad
After years of planning and construction, the City of Superior officially opened the Twin Ports’ very first splash pad at Wade Bowl Park. This family-friendly attraction features accessible water elements designed so everyone can join in on the fun, regardless of age or ability.
This project was implemented in response to strong community interest – an idea that came directly from Superior residents.
The layout was thoughtfully designed to keep children safe while still encouraging play. Kids can run and splash on a slip-resistant surface, creating a space that supports both safety and a healthy amount of mischief.
“What’s neat about the splash pad is how interactive the features are,” Maruska says. “They require kids to play together, which is great for making new friends and memories. The Parks team has begun thinking about small, low-dollar ways to keep adding amenities to Wade Bowl. It’s just going to keep getting better.”
Since opening, the Wade Bowl Splash Pad has quickly become a go-to spot for families, offering a new way to cool off and enjoy the outdoors during Superior’s warmest months.
Heritage Skate Park
Sometimes, big changes start with a simple idea.
A local youth once approached former City Councilor Ruth Ludwig with a vision to restore Heritage Skate Park, a space that has long been important to their community. Her advice was simple: “Write a letter to Mayor Paine.” And so, he did.
This letter helped spark momentum for what would become a fully reimagined skate park.
In May of 2026, the city celebrated the grand re-opening of Heritage Skate Park with live music from the Leave Alones, lines of food trucks and a community of passionate youth.
From first-time drop-ins to experienced riders, the updated park was designed for all ages and skill levels. It features a deep bowl, street-style elements and a natural flow that sits alongside the playground, making it easy for families to spend the entire day at the park.
“I’m told by the skate park builders that this is one of the best skate parks in the Midwest and the only skate bowl you can find for hundreds of miles,” Maruska says. “Superior is creating a destination for visitors and residents that is hard to find. We’re lucky to have Heritage Skate Park. Let’s keep it great!”
This project stands as a strong example of how community voices can help shape lasting improvements and impact.
Hammond Park Playground
The City of Superior wrapped up June with the official opening of the brand-new Hammond Park playground, adding another vibrant and welcoming space for neighborhood families.
“Hammond Park is another example of our commitment to creating neighborhood parks that are fun, inclusive, and built to serve families for years to come,” Maruska says. “It’s exciting to see another community gathering space come to life.”
With updated equipment and a fresh layout, the playground provides a safe, engaging space for children to explore while offering a comfortable setting for families to gather and spend time outdoors.
What’s Next for Superior Parks?
The improvements don’t stop here. While residents are already enjoying new additions across the park system, several exciting projects are already in the works.
- 44th Ave. E. Waterfront (Bunge Dock): Planning is underway to transform this future public waterfront destination. Community input is helping shape the vision for expanded public access, recreation and connections to Lake Superior.
- Benny Peterson Park: Construction begins this summer on a complete playground and court renovation, bringing new play equipment and an upgraded basketball court to the neighborhood.
- Gouge Park: Parks is also beginning to look ahead at opportunities to renovate Gouge Park over the next year as funding becomes available.
As one project wraps up, another begins. The City of Superior continues to invest in parks and public spaces that improve quality of life, strengthen neighborhoods, and create places where residents of all ages can gather, play, and enjoy the outdoors.
If this summer is any indication, the best is yet to come.
Mary Osborne is the City & Tourism Communications Coordinator
