Mike Wolanin | The Republic An exterior view of NexusPark in Columbus, Ind., Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025.
Columbus Parks and Recreation has reworked the parking plans for the more than 2,800 athletes, coaches and spectators expected for a wrestling tournament Friday through Sunday at the Circle K Fieldhouse at NexusPark.
While the The War of the Roses Midwest Nationals Wrestling Tournament continues for three days, Saturday is expected to be the tournament’s highest attendance day, according to parks officials. More than 60 wrestling teams are expected, and parks officials say this tournament marks the first major event of the fall/winter season.
To support the scale of the event and ensure a seamless experience for visitors, the city’s parks department is partnering with city agencies and local businesses to help visitors understand the transportation system, signage and services available.
The city has designated Donner Center, in Donner Park, 739 22nd St., as the overflow parking location for NexusPark. This designation is designed to prevent tournament participants and spectators from parking in private lots near NexusPark, which caused congested conditions and even camping in some of the private parking lots at a previous event.
Donner Center will be open from 7 to 10 a.m. Saturday, with restrooms available. A representative from the Columbus Area Visitors Center will be at the center to assist those using the parking available there.
A courtesy shuttle service will run daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. between Donner Center and NexusPark. During peak hours, 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., shuttles will operate on a continuous loop.
From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the shuttles will run every 30 minutes at the top and bottom of the hour.
Signage is being placed throughout NexusPark to guide participants to parking areas and shuttle access points.
NexusPark officials have notified nearby restaurants and retailers about the anticipated increased foot traffic during the weekend.
Signage has been placed at some nearby lots informing visitors that the lots are not available for NexusPark event parking.
Tourism tools including a quick-reference list of nearby dining options will be shared with event organizers.
“This tournament is a chance to show how Columbus comes together—not just to host, but to truly welcome,” said Brady Buckley, associate director of sports for Columbus Parks and Recreation.
