Fort Wayne offers its visitors many activities, from parks and museums to restaurants and shopping centers. With so much to explore, visitors are sure to have an enjoyable time in this vibrant city. As a guide, I’d like to share some of my favorite things to do when I visit Fort Wayne:
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, on the city’s northwest side, is a must-visit location if you’re hoping to spend quality time with your kids. The zoo is open from Monday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 5 pm, and tickets are required for entry. Children under two years old can enter for free by sitting on their parent’s lap during regular hours, and tickets are reasonably priced at $8 for adults and $6 for youngsters ages 3 to 12.
You may anticipate viewing various creatures up close at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, from amusing monkeys to beautiful elephants, lions, and tigers. Several observation windows also allow you to see the animals. Animal displays, which begin at about 10 am and go throughout the day, provide an excellent opportunity to see diverse species in action. For example, you may observe aquatic creatures such as whales and dolphins swimming freely in enormous tanks or walk-through pens to keep animals interacting intimately with one another in under-regulated situations such as feeding or socializing sessions. Regardless of the exhibit, each presentation lasts around 30 minutes, and guests will undoubtedly have a fascinating experience visiting the many animal habitats.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Located in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Allen County Public Library is an iconic historical building serving the community since its establishment in 1882.
The library boasts an extensive collection of over 2 million items, making it one of the largest public libraries in Indiana. You can find an impressive selection of books, DVDs, CDs, video games, and audiobooks. The library has a dedicated genealogy department where visitors can explore their family history or seek inspiration for their next travel destination.
The Children’s Department is a must-visit section for families with children, offering many toys and games to keep the little ones entertained. Adults can also explore the Adult Department, which features engaging board games and puzzles.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
If you’re a baseball fan, don’t miss catching a game at Parkview Field to see the TinCaps, a beloved minor league team in Fort Wayne. The stadium offers an intimate setting, with a seating capacity of just 3,271 people and easy access to public transportation.
Initially built in 1892, the ballpark has a rich history and has hosted many famous teams, including the Fort Wayne Kekiongas, who won the first-ever World Series in 1887. Visitors can see a statue commemorating this win on the stadium’s facade, along with other memorabilia from the early days of professional baseball in central Indiana, such as the Players’ Club. Aside from being one of Indiana’s Major League Baseball stadiums, Parkview Field offers a great selection of food options. Visitors can indulge in local cuisine from one of the stadium’s many restaurants or grab a quick bite from the outside vendors before heading inside for the game.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Embassy Theatre is a historic Fort Wayne landmark built in 1928 and known then as the Columbia Theatre. In 1929, it was renamed the Ambassador Theatre and has since hosted numerous iconic performers, including Frank Sinatra and Bob Hope.
Today, the Embassy Theatre remains one of the few theaters in Fort Wayne, with a stunning facade crafted entirely from Indiana limestone. Visitors can step inside and marvel at the Art Deco interior, adorned with exquisite murals on its walls by talented local artists Hildreth Meiere and John C. Johnson Jr. These beautiful works were painted between 1933-1936 and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural history.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory is an excellent destination for families looking for a beautiful educational experience. Open year-round, the conservatory boasts a diverse collection of plants and flowers that will captivate visitors of all ages.
In addition to its impressive collection, the conservatory hosts various events throughout the year, including free admission days in January, February, and March. Families will especially enjoy Kids’ Day, held annually on March 24th. This special event offers free activities like face painting, arts and crafts, and live music from talented local musicians like The Nuns on Wheels.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
If you’re planning a special event like a dinner party, the Castle Gallery is an excellent venue option. This
unique location is within a historic castle in Fort Wayne, with a rich history dating back to 1815. The theater space can accommodate up to 100 people and regularly hosts a variety of shows, including comedy nights and musical concerts, throughout the year.
The Castle Gallery also offers classes in subjects like acting and music production that experienced professionals teach. Book these instructors to provide entertainment or instruction at your private event if you’re looking for something extra special.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Lakeside Park & Rose Garden is a stunning destination offering everyone something. In addition to its serene atmosphere and natural beauty, the park has ample space for outdoor activities with family and friends. But Lakeside Park & Rose Garden isn’t just a great place to walk around – there are plenty of activities to participate in!
The rose garden at Lakeside Park & Rose Garden is a true gem recognized by the American Rose Society as a stunning example of a rose garden. The flowers are expertly arranged in neat rows, allowing visitors to appreciate their beauty and fragrance fully. And with well-maintained paths, visitors can enjoy the roses without worrying about getting lost or having dirty shoes. This makes Lakeside Park & Rose Garden the perfect place to revisit year after year, taking in new experiences and memories with each visit.
Address: 1401 Lake Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 ➡️Direction
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Science Central is a fun children’s museum in downtown Fort Wayne. Visitors of all ages may explore and learn about science in exciting and engaging ways thanks to various interactive displays. The planetarium is one of the museum’s centerpieces, where visitors may marvel at the marvels of the cosmos through immersive displays.
Apart from the planetarium, the museum has a science theater with live demonstrations and presentations on various scientific themes. The newest exhibit has an interactive play area where children can design and operate robots.
Address: 1950 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46805 ➡️ Direction
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne Trails is a terrific year-round destination for hikers and cyclists, with a 50-mile network of trails. The trails may be reached from various areas across the city, including Downtown Fort Wayne and South Bend, making selecting an appropriate starting point simple.
Fort Wayne Trails has something for everyone, whether you’re a novice or an expert hiker, with various pathways and scenery to explore. Thus, if you want to appreciate nature while being active during your visit to Fort Wayne, check out Fort Wayne Trails!
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Regal Cinemas is your place if you’re looking for a movie theater that gives you the best experience. With over 5,400 screens in more than 730 locations across America and Canada, it’s the largest movie theater chain in the world.
Their theaters offer nearly 200 food and drink options, and every ticket purchase comes with free popcorn refills, no matter how many times you go or who you bring. Their loyalty program, “The Crown Club,” provides discounts on tickets, merchandise, and more.
Regal Cinemas also boasts cool lounge areas where you can hang out before or after your movie, so you don’t have to wait outside or stand next to strangers. With all these perks, there’s no excuse not to check out one of these great theaters near you!
Address: 211 W Washington Center Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46825 ➡️ Direction
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Fort Wayne Museum of Art, located in downtown Fort Wayne, Indiana, is a well-known museum with a fine art and sculpture collection. Except for Christmas Day, the museum is open every day from 10 am to 5 pm. Entrance is $7 for adults, $5 for seniors (65+) and students with ID, and $3 for children ages 6-12 when accompanied by a paying adult. Visitors can also get free entry by making a gift of any amount to help the museum’s collection develop.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
In the center of Fort Wayne, Indiana’s downtown, at 500 North Harrison Street, sits the Grand Wayne Convention Center, a multipurpose venue. Call (260) 348-2900 to make a reservation or to find out the open dates. The center is open from 7:30 am to 5 pm on weekdays and from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm on weekends.
The Grand Wayne Convention Center is a well-liked location for weddings, birthday celebrations, and other private events like family reunions and hosting conventions. The facility can host groups of any size and provides various facilities to suit every occasion.
The Grand Wayne Convention Center hosts several annual public exhibitions, such as displays of vintage automobiles and other intriguing collections. These displays are open to visitors for a modest $5 per person entrance price. When making your appointment, please inform the staff if you are under 18 or need specific accommodations, such as elevator access, so that they can make the necessary preparations for you.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Promenade Park, which lies in the center of Fort Wayne’s downtown, is ideal for a leisurely day out. It’s the perfect place for a picnic or a stroll with its expansive lawns, playground, and stunning city views. Enjoy the tranquil sound of the fountains while taking in the breathtaking scenery around you while taking a hiatus from the rush and noise of city life. Bring your walking shoes to explore this urban sanctuary while exercising on the park’s meandering walking track. There are also several seats to relax and take it all in when you need a break.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Tourists may find several fascinating things about the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum. Firstly, it is a significant part of Fort Wayne’s history and has been an iconic landmark since it opened in 1952. It was built as a tribute to the local veterans who served in World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam War.
Secondly, the Coliseum is one of the most significant event venues in the Midwest, hosting various concerts, trade shows, sporting events, and other activities throughout the year. The Coliseum can hold up to 13,000 people and is equipped with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems, making it a popular destination for local and national events.
Thirdly, the Coliseum is home to the Fort Wayne Komets hockey team, which has been a part of the city’s sports scene for over 60 years. The Coliseum also hosts the Fort Wayne Mad Ants basketball team and the Fort Wayne Derby Girls roller derby team, adding to its diverse range of sports offerings.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, located in downtown Fort Wayne, is a historic Catholic church built in 1878. It continues to serve as an active parish church, hosting services every Sunday. Visitors can admire the church’s stunning architecture, which includes intricate stained glass windows and a towering spire.
In addition to being a place of worship, the cathedral also houses a museum that features artifacts from various periods and sites, including medieval paintings and furniture from France’s Louis XIV era. One of the cathedral’s founders was Saint Philomena, a patron saint known for her generosity toward those in need. Visitors can learn about the history of this important religious figure and the construction of the cathedral itself.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Fort Wayne Firefighters Museum, located in the city’s Historic Downtown District across from the Allen County Government Complex, provides a unique look into firefighting history. The museum houses a collection of firefighting equipment used by firefighters throughout history, such as vintage hoses, helmets, and uniforms. Visitors may learn about the progress of firefighting methods and equipment and the communal role of firefighters.
The museum is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday through Friday, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. Saturday and 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm Sunday. Adult admission is $2, while children 12 and under are allowed free with an adult. Please keep in mind that an adult must accompany minors under the age of 12.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
If you’re looking for a family-friendly destination, consider visiting the Brookside Mansion. This historic house museum, located in the Brookside neighborhood of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was built in 1911 and carefully restored to its original condition.
The mansion is an excellent example of the unique architecture and history of the Brookside neighborhood. Visitors can take guided tours of the home on the first Saturday of every month, learning about its fascinating past and the people who lived there. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the charm and elegance of a bygone era
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The History Center in downtown Fort Wayne is a must-see museum for anybody interested in the city’s history. It displays a wealth of knowledge about the city and unique items from its past. Visitors may learn about Fort Wayne’s history from prehistoric times. The museum also has a fantastic gift store of unique local things that make excellent souvenirs. Don’t miss this chance to immerse yourself in this magnificent city’s rich history!
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Kreager Park, located on the east side of Fort Wayne, is a public park named after the Kreager family, who generously donated the land to the city in 1888. This park is one of the oldest parks in Fort Wayne, established by citizens in 1831. It offers various amenities, including walking trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a disc golf course, and several soccer, baseball, and softball sports fields. With its scenic views and diverse recreational options, Kreager Park is a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Foellinger Theatre is a performing arts and community center located in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne at the intersection of Calhoun Street and College Avenue.
With a large stage, seating for 2,000 people, and a spacious orchestra pit, the theater is the perfect venue for various events, from dance recitals to music concerts. In addition to hosting events, the Foellinger Theatre is also the home of the Fort Wayne Philharmonic Orchestra.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Fort Wayne Visitors Center, situated at the intersection of Main Street and Jefferson Blvd, is your go-to resource for all things Fort Wayne. Open from Monday to Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm; the center offers a wealth of information about the city’s attractions, as well as maps, brochures, and more.
Their staff members are always available to assist you in planning your trip or finding specific directions. Plus, they provide free Wi-Fi access for visitors interested in browsing their website or making an appointment for another purpose.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Buckner Park is a beautiful green spot on Fort Wayne’s northeast side. Visitors may enjoy various recreational activities in the park, including playgrounds, basketball courts, softball fields, tennis courts, and a walking route. One of the park’s most distinctive features is its outdoor swimming pool, accessible during the summer months and provides a pleasant way to cool off on a hot day.
Buckner Park is also a popular picnic location, with several shelters and picnic tables accessible.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Historic Fort Wayne is a fascinating military fort in Fort Wayne, Indiana that offers a glimpse into the past. Initially established in 1816 as a frontier outpost during the War of 1812, the defense played a significant role in the city’s development. It served as a training ground for soldiers during World War I and II. Today, the fort serves as a living museum that offers an immersive experience of the life of a soldier during the 19th century.
Visitors can explore the fort’s barracks, officers’ quarters, and even the original fort hospital, among other exhibits that showcase the fort’s rich history.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Located in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve covers 304 acres and is known as the largest wetland restoration project in the state. The preserve, once a landfill, features over 40 acres of restored wetlands with native plants, trees, and animals. Visitors can explore the marsh area by walking, running on the trails, or kayaking through the preserve’s waterways.
With its diverse ecosystem and stunning natural beauty, Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve offers a unique opportunity to experience Indiana’s natural environment and wildlife.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Jefferson Pointe is a large park with various activities for people and families. There’s something for everyone: sports grounds, hiking routes, and a bike trail. The park has almost three miles of concrete ways that weave through gorgeous rivers and lakeshores, making it a superb year-round location for bicycling or strolling. At peak hours, guests may also catch a game at one of the park’s soccer fields.
The park has basketball and football courts free to the public without registration for anyone wishing to unwind after a busy day. The Jefferson Pointe is an excellent location for fresh air and outdoor enjoyment.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
The Fort Wayne Railroad Historical Society is an excellent destination to delve into the history of railroads in Fort Wayne. Located in the downtown area, this museum boasts a collection of more than 100 locomotives and railroad cars that date back to the 19th century.
You can explore the museum at your own pace as it offers self-guided tours. The museum is open from 10 am to 5 pm Monday to Friday, and visitors can enter through the main entrance on Broadway Street.
Top Things to do in Fort Wayne
Glenbrook Square Mall is Indiana’s most prominent retail mall, with over 200 businesses. The mall was named after Fort Wayne’s Glenbrook district, which also has its mall, Glenbrook Square.
The mall’s development on East Coliseum Boulevard began in 1953 and has been open constantly since then. Simon Property Group, a commercial real estate business with many shopping centers around the United States, owns the mall.
So there you have it: some of the best things to do in Fort Wayne. Of course, this is only the tip of the iceberg—countless other fantastic locations and items to discover in this dynamic city. Do you have any favorite neighborhood hangouts or hidden treasures to recommend? Please tell us about them in the comments!
