From the Walk of Excellence path, visitors can peer directly into the eye of Willie the Whale—no marine biology degree required. Though not towering like a skyscraper, Willie still stands an impressive 16 feet tall.
Kokomo, Indiana, is home to several distinctive pieces of public art, and Willie has earned his place among them. Created in 1964, Willie has been “beached” in Foster Park alongside Wildcat Creek since 2019. His name may have been inspired by a 1946 Disney short film, The Whale Who Wanted to Sing at the Met, though this connection is unconfirmed, the two Willies differ in appearance and coloring.
Over the years, Willie has traveled around central Indiana, appearing at the old Indianapolis Zoo, a miniature golf course, and a water park. The City of Kokomo eventually acquired him from Rushville, Indiana.
Today, Willie sits dry-docked in Foster Park, just a short walk across the bridge from the Kokomo Beach Family Aquatic Center. He continues to delight visitors of all ages with his playful presence.
