Amphitheater - Ottawa Park

Amphitheater

Toledo's largest,
finest
Regional park

The historic Amphitheater in Ottawa Park was WPA constructed in 1935-1936. It is located on a sloping piece of ground surrounded by trees in a bird sanctuary section of the park. The 500 tons of stone came from a quarry near Whitehouse. The small scrubs and trees planted then are now nearly 100 feet tall! Over the years the seating area has been rebuilt, a handicap accessible ramp, a stage with backdrops, power, and a storage facility added. Holding about 750 people, it is the only permanent venue for free open air concerts in this area.

Since it opened the Amphitheater has been used for church services, Broadway productions, Shakespeare plays, Magic shows, and lots of live music. Free summer concerts have been held since at least 1963. Your Park Board sponsors these annual concerts. See below and the Calendar tab for details.

In 2014, we received a NatureWorks grant to start restoring the amphitheater (1st phase drainage rebuild). An application for the 2nd phase was submitted in May, 2019. In June 2019 we received a Toledo District Improvement grant to pave the gravel walkway and add an entry arch. In July we received an Ohio Arts Council ArtSTART grant to add two concerts in Sept. 2019 and 2 more in June 2020. All part of the Board's 5 year comprehensive plan.

The amphitheater can also be rented for private activities. For information and fees, contact: Shawn Sobel of the Toledo Division of Parks, Recreation and Forestry at 419-936-3887 or shawn.sobel@toledo.oh.gov