We were hosted by Visit Fort Wayne during our visit. Thoughts, opinions and pictures are all my own, unless otherwise noted!

Welcome to our guide to the vibrant city of Fort Wayne, Indiana! We had an absolute BLAST exploring this exciting city and discovering its hidden gems. Get ready to join us on an extraordinary journey as we delve into the vibrant attractions, delicious dining options, and the undeniable charm that makes Fort Wayne a must-visit city. From family-friendly adventures to mouthwatering meals and its convenient proximity to Columbus, Fort Wayne has something for everyone. So, read on as we share our firsthand experiences, insider recommendations, and expert tips to help you plan an unforgettable Fort Wayne adventure.

Let’s dive in and explore all that this remarkable city has to offer!

 ⏺ where to eat ⏺

THE LANDING

Did you know that Fort Wayne got its nickname “The Summit City” way back in the 1800s? Back then, the Wabash and Erie Canal ran through this area, and Fort Wayne happened to sit at the highest point of the canal. Pretty cool, right?

Fast forward to today, and this area has undergone a fantastic transformation. Now known as “The Landing,” it’s become a vibrant destination that we absolutely fell in love with. Picture this: restaurants, shops, pop-up music, and an all-around fun atmosphere where our girls could roam freely and have a blast.

Speaking of restaurants, our absolute favorite was GnomeTown Brewing Co. We loved it so much that we ended up going two days in a row! The vibe, the staff, and the food were all incredible.

Let me tell you, their burgers were out of this world. The Steve Rogers burger, a true American classic, was taken to the next level with Gnometown 3000 island dressing. And let’s not forget the Y’all Dun Up & Dun It, with its mouthwatering combination of buttermilk fried chicken, hot sauce, and garlic aioli. Are you salivating yet? Because I sure am just thinking about it. Oh, and their fries, tots, and kids’ meals were also a big hit!

Now, if you’re in the mood for a beer, you’re in luck. GnomeTown Brewing Co. offers 15 of their own house beers on tap, along with a local cider. And here’s a fun fact: they’re always experimenting with new and exciting pilot batch recipes, so keep an eye out for those!

Plus, they’re conveniently located next to Utopian Coffee, which happens to be owned by the same folks. We had a delightful cup of hot drip coffee during brunch, perfectly complementing our avocado toast and breakfast burger.

But wait, there’s more! The Landing is also home to a variety of other fantastic restaurants. While we haven’t been to these places personally, these places sounded awesome! If you’re craving international cuisine, check out Mercado. Their tacos and more look simply delicious for both brunch and dinner. For some Asian-inspired dishes, head over to Nawa, where you can enjoy lunch, dinner, or drinks on their patio under the captivating “Bison” mural. And if you’re a pizza lover like us, Alto Grado is a must-visit. Their wood-fired pizzas look divine, and make sure to save room for their irresistible S’mores dessert pizza!

Oh, and did I mention shopping? The Landing has that, too! I loved Urban Hippie. They’ve got all your bohemian clothing and accessory needs covered. From trendy tops to stylish dresses and bottoms, you’ll find everything to make you look and feel amazing. I found the coolest pants that I just hope I am cool enough to wear.

ELECTRIC WORKS

Quick History Lesson — The Electric Works campus has a rich history of industrial innovation dating back to 1883. It all started with the Fort Wayne Jenney Electric Light Company, founded by visionary Ranald T. McDonald and inventor James Jenney. In the early 1900s, Thomas Edison’s General Electric Co. acquired the business, propelling it into new heights. During World War II in 1944, GE employed a significant portion of Fort Wayne’s workforce, manufacturing electric motors, transformers, and other electronic marvels. However, in 2015, GE closed the campus to adapt to the changing market. For over five years, the heart of Fort Wayne witnessed 39 acres, eighteen historic buildings, and 1.2 million square feet of vacant space, eagerly awaiting a rebirth. In 2017, RTM Ventures stepped in, acquiring the property and collaborating with the community to develop a transformative mixed-use project known as Electric Works.

One of the coolest features is Union Street Market, a vibrant culinary destination, that is actually the first food hall and public market in Northeast Indiana. They offer a diverse range of locally sourced food and beverages. From fresh seafood and delicious BBQ to kombucha and hard cider, you’ll find a variety of options to satisfy your cravings in the East and West Hall.

In the East Hall, indulge in fresh seafood and a creative Seafood Boil from B&B Seafood Market. Enjoy locally sourced meats and mouthwatering smash burgers at B&B Meat Market. Discover Indiana honey in various forms at Bee Great, and treat yourself to inventive baked goods like cheesecake-filled apples at Bragg-A-Lot Sweets & Drinks. Find healthy frozen entrees at Herculean Meal Prep, and delight in handcrafted charcuterie, grazing boxes, salads, international cheese, and more at The Kitchen and Co.

In the West Hall, experience award-winning BBQ, ribs, chicken, and soulful sides at Brooks BBQ & Chicken, Fort Wayne’s first Black-owned BBQ restaurant. Savor delicious street tacos and creative burritos at Pikoso Burritos, and enjoy innovative cocktails made with local ingredients and spirits at The Charlie Horse. Quench your thirst with crisp hard ciders and meads from Kekionga Craft Company. Start your day right with fresh roasted brews and delectable baked goods at Conjure Coffee. Sample house-brewed kombucha at Lunar Infusions or grab a slice or whole pie with locally sourced ingredients at Johnny Ox Pizzeria. Finally, discover crafty ice cream infused with locally grown fruits, including boozy options for those 21+, at Local Apple Cart. Make sure to get the bourbon drink thats on tap. DELICIOUS!

What we ate:

We absolutely adored Pikoso Burritos for their mouthwatering salsas and perfectly layered nachos. When it comes to Conjure Coffee, their fabulous gelato is simply irresistible. And let me tell you, Johnny Ox Pizzeria is a slice of perfection. With local ingredients, meticulous attention to detail, an epic hot sauce lineup, and the friendliest staff, it was a culinary delight. We couldn’t resist ordering a whole cheese pizza, which was a fantastic family-friendly choice.

The Electric Works campus offers plenty of great spots to enjoy your meal. Oh, and if you’re a fan of kombucha, don’t miss out on Lunar Infusions and their delightful Kombucha flights!

Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island Wiener Stand

Coney Island is a true treasure nestled in the heart of Fort Wayne. This iconic eatery has been dishing out mouthwatering coney dogs since 1914, and let me tell you, we all LOVED it. If you’re looking for a spot that combines scrumptious eats, old-school vibes, and affordable prices, you’re in for a treat. Picture this: you walk into Coney Island and are instantly transported back in time. The place oozes old-school charm, with country-style stools and a colorful public patio just around the corner. We absolutely adored the laid-back atmosphere, and the best part? It didn’t break the bank! Coney Island knows how to keep things affordable, making it a win-win for families on the go.

Now, let’s dive into the star of the show: the legendary ‘Coney Dog.’ Brace yourself for a flavor explosion! These babies are served on steamed buns and loaded with tangy mustard, lip-smacking coney sauce, and freshly hand-chopped onions. And guess what? You can easily customize your dog to suit your taste buds. Are you a cheese fanatic? Go ahead and add a generous sprinkle of melty goodness. Not a fan of onions? Just ask for them to be left off, just like my husband does! With each bite, our taste buds danced with joy.

But Coney Island isn’t just about the food—it’s a place that brings families together. We found ourselves bonding over laughs, messy bites, and shared stories. The combination of delicious coney dogs, nostalgic vibes, and budget-friendly prices make it a go-to destination for both locals and travelers alike.

Sweets on Main

Sweets on Main is like a blast from the past, bringing back all the nostalgic vibes with their huge sundaes and delicious hand-scooped ice cream. The staff there is seriously awesome, super friendly and always ready to make your visit a memorable one. Plus, it’s conveniently located right next to the famous Coney Island, making it the perfect spot to satisfy your sweet tooth after chowing down on some Coney goodness.

I was this close to going for the Stackable Chocolate Dream. Imagine Michigan pot hole ice cream, whipped cream, chocolate syrup, Oreos, and peanuts all layered together in the most heavenly way. But then, I laid eyes on these gorgeous pink macarons made by a local baker. Game over. I just had to have the macaron ice cream sandwich with cookies and cream in between. Trust me, it was pure perfection. Oh, and get this: if you’re having trouble deciding, they’ve got a sampler flight for just $6! You’ll get to try six tiny scoops of different ice cream flavors. How cool is that? I absolutely love this option!

When it comes to seating, they’ve got you covered. There’s plenty of room inside, and if you’re up for it, head around the corner to the super colorful public patio. You’ll find a fun, life-sized chess game and tons of umbrellas to keep you cool

⏺ Where to Play ⏺

FORT WAYNE CHILDREN’S ZOO

We had an amazing time at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. I had NO IDEA what a gem this place was or we would have visited much sooner. The zoo’s organization is excellent, making navigation easy – which is a major bonus when you’re exploring somewhere new with kids. There was so much to see and interact with at every turn. What impressed me the most was the abundance of lush greenery everywhere we walked, and the fact that everything was designed with the girls’ height, making it easier on my back. It was a win-win!

The Central Zoo had the cutest river otters, super active penguins, and goats we loved brushing. The African Journey immersed us in the sights and sounds of Africa, with zebras, wildebeest, vultures, and ostriches on the savannah. The Asian Trek showcased orangutans, tigers, and gibbons + an absolute incredible jungle where you we discovered colorful birds enjoying their tropical paradise — complete with a waterfall. . The newly remodeled Australian Adventure featured cockatiels, parrots, kangaroos, and more. The Reef amazed us with its 20,000-gallon aquarium and the shark tank. The girls had a blast with photo ops and up-close encounters at Stingray Bay!

Get ready for an exciting adventure at the zoo’s newest attraction, Red Panda Ridge! Opening this Saturday (May 27, 2023), Red Panda Ridge boasts one of the largest red panda habitats in the US. Guests will have the opportunity to encounter endangered Chinese and Himalayan Red Pandas, as well as discover several new animal species such as the Chinese Muntjac, a charming small deer, and a variety of Asian birds including the Red-billed Blue Magpie and White-eared Pheasant. As an added bonus, children can embark on an interactive bamboo maze, adding an element of fun and exploration to their visit. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience at Red Panda Ridge!

Here’s a pro tip: Make sure you check out the schedule before you go because there are tons of interactive things happening all day long. We caught some really cool talks by the keepers and even got to feed some of the animals. It was educational and exciting at the same time, the perfect combo!

By the way, you don’t have to worry about parking fees because it’s all free! And the parking spots are conveniently located within easy walking distance of the entrance. Oh, and here’s another awesome thing: The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is certified as a sensory inclusive facility with quiet places, sensory bags, and headphones to make sure everyone has a super comfortable experience.

𝐈 𝐜𝐚𝐧’𝐭 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐭 𝐖𝐚𝐲𝐧𝐞 𝐂𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐝𝐫𝐞𝐧’𝐬 𝐙𝐨𝐨 𝐞𝐧𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡. 𝐈𝐭 𝐠𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐚 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐢𝐝 𝟏𝟎/𝟏𝟎 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐰.

Don’t forget to hop over to our Instagram Reel for peek into our amazing visit here!

PROMENADE PARK

Promenade Park is an absolute charm! This breathtaking park is the perfect destination for relaxation, family fun, picnicking and immersing yourself in the beauty of nature right in the city!  As soon as we arrived, I couldn’t resist settling into one of the porch swings, a favorite spot among locals. It was the ideal spot to unwind and soak up the serene surroundings. 

What makes Promenade Park even more special is its role in connecting Fort Wayne’s natural rivers to the vibrant urban center. Fort Wayne’s three rivers—the St. Marys, the St. Joseph, and the Maumee—are a constant source of entertainment, exploration, and fun. 

One of the highlights of Promenade Park was strolling along the tree canopy trail. Walking through the lush greenery and enjoying the shade was an enchanting experience. And the best part – the trail led us to a playground and a kids’ canal, where Harper had a blast spinning and going down the slide! We also noticed they offer riverboat cruises and kayak rentals, which would be super fun!

But Promenade Park is just the beginning of Fort Wayne’s amazing riverfront transformation. This expansion will offer a wider range of public spaces and attractions for visitors to enjoy. The upcoming features include an extension of the Tree Canopy Trail, dedicated boat docks for private watercraft, a universally accessible bouldering mound, a relaxing hammock grove, and scenic walking trails. Construction is scheduled to begin this year and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024. We can’t wait to return and explore the new additions!

SCIENCE CENTRAL

We had an amazing time at Science Central! Without a doubt, it’s the most incredible hands-on science center in Indiana. We immersed ourselves in over 200 mind-blowing exhibits that had us continuously amazed and fascinated. They offer a wide range of attractions, from water tables designed specifically for the little ones to mind-bending experiments that left me scratching my head in wonder. The Science on a Sphere exhibit completely captivated us, making us feel like characters in our very own science movie. Additionally, just outside of that, there was a neat planet display where you could press buttons to uncover fascinating facts.

Let me tell you, the girls absolutely loved Kids Central. They had a fantastic play structure with an exciting slide, a water table filled with rubber ducks that kept them giggling, and even a giant Lite Brite! Moreover, there were these incredible music stations that turned all of us into mini rockstars.

However, the icing on the cake was the Nature Nook. We had the opportunity to interact with animals, learn about various plants, and use magnifying glasses to explore intricate details of hundreds of fossils and seashells. We even witnessed the meal preparation for animals like iguanas, bunnies, lizards, guinea pigs, and more.

Oh, and here’s the best part: if you’re a COSI member, you can enjoy free admission! I mean, how cool is that?

BOTANICAL CONSERVATORY

The Botanical Conservatory is a truly remarkable oasis nestled in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne. It provides the perfect opportunity to take a break from your day and indulge in a reset while immersing yourself and your family in a sanctuary of tranquility, learning, and natural beauty. With three indoor gardens, this place encourages experiential learning and offers four annual exhibits that seamlessly blend a fun, interactive experience with the splendor of seasonal plants.

The girls were absolutely thrilled by the “underground worm hole” where they climbed through and joyfully slid down! Moreover, there’s a delightful kids’ area in the front featuring a playful tree and interactive games. The conservatory boasts a diverse plant collection, including intriguing specimens like the chocolate tree, cacti, and palms. With over 2,000 plants from 1,000 different varieties, each visit provides a direct connection to the wonders of nature.

Undoubtedly, the highlight of our visit was the captivating Color in Motion Live Exhibit. Live butterflies have made the Botanical Conservatory their home, bringing a kaleidoscope of natural beauty, awe-inspiring wonder, and vibrant colors. It was pure joy to watch these delicate creatures gracefully flutter around, and the girls were hopeful that one might even land on them. Additionally, there’s an enchanting area where you can witness exotic butterflies emerging from their chrysalides right before your eyes. All of this unfolds amidst a stunning backdrop of gorgeous, multi-colored flowers and foliage.

Get a video peek of the gorgeous butterflies over on Instagram! Also, mark your calendars because this exhibit flies away end of June!

As an added bonus, the conservatory is conveniently located just around the corner from our hotel, making it incredibly easy to reach on foot.

Public Art Trail

Get ready for a colorful adventure in Fort Wayne’s Public Art Scene—it’s an absolute must-see! And guess what? The girls were just as smitten with it as I was. Let me tell you, the art pieces scattered around the city are nothing short of GORGEOUS!

Imagine a place where creativity knows no bounds, where larger-than-life murals and funky sculptures add an extra dash of fun to everyday life. Fort Wayne proudly showcases its extensive collection of public art, with over 100 awe-inspiring locations to explore in downtown and throughout Allen County. Get ready to strike a pose and take the perfect selfie with your favorite pieces—it’s practically a tradition here! Don’t forget to share your art-adventures on social media using #PublicArtFW.

Oh, and here’s a pro-tip: before you embark on your artistic escapade, make sure to sign up for the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail pass. Trust me, it’s totally worth it, and it’s absolutely free! This nifty mobile-exclusive passport will serve as your guide to the curated public art in Fort Wayne.

Once you’ve signed up, brace yourself for instant excitement as your passport magically appears on your phone via text and email. No need to download any apps—just save the pass to your home screen for easy one-tap access. And here’s where the real fun begins! As you journey through the city, use your phone to check-in at each mural, dive deeper into the artwork, and even earn some well-deserved prizes along the way. It’s like a treasure hunt of creativity, and you’re the explorer! Perfect for kids and adults alike.

COMBAT OPS

Looking for an awesome indoor destination to beat the heat, escape the rain, or just have a blast? Look no further than Combat Ops! It’s the ultimate battle-themed family entertainment center in Fort Wayne, and they’ve got a ton of exciting activities for everyone to enjoy. Picture laser tag with thrilling missions, a super fun arcade, nerf battles, virtual reality games, mini golf, mini bowling, axe throwing, gellyball, and more! Our personal favorites were the mini bowling, putt-putt, and motorcycle racing in the arcade. We went for the timed card option, which didn’t let us play the ticket games, but we had unlimited mini bowling—so much fun!

Don’t forget to try their delicious wine slushies, and if the amazing aroma is anything to go by, the pizza is definitely worth a try.

The best part? Combat Ops has it all under one roof, and you don’t need reservations. It’s the perfect family-friendly adventure spot that’s easy to enjoy!

⏺ Where to Stay ⏺

We had a fantastic stay at the Courtyard Fort Wayne Downtown at Grand Wayne Convention Center.
The hotel’s interior was modern and impeccably clean, but let’s be honest, the only amenity we truly needed was a pool for the girls!

Seeing that it was a more contemporary hotel, they didn’t offer the typical breakfast setup. However, they had an on-site restaurant called Conner’s Kitchen + Bar, where you can enjoy breakfast, dinner, or even grab a cocktail. While we didn’t get a chance to dine there because we were eager to explore the local gems nearby, the restaurant looked absolutely delicious!

One of the highlights of the hotel was its superb location. Situated next door to the Embassy Theater and Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, we enjoyed breathtaking views of Parkview Field. Additionally, every other destination we visited during our trip was within a short 10-minute drive or less. A bonus was that the downtown area was incredibly walkable, and there was always something fun happening nearby!

Overall, our stay at the Courtyard Downtown was beyond exceptional! From its sleek and modern ambiance to its spotless cleanliness, this place had it all. The convenient amenities and ideal location near popular attractions were a cherry on top of the cake. It struck the perfect balance by giving us the fancy vibe we were craving as adults while also keeping the girls entertained. It was like staying in a place that whispered sophistication to us, but secretly knew how to throw an awesome pool party for the little ones!

After experiencing the vibrant city of Fort Wayne, Indiana, we can confidently say that it is a destination that leaves a lasting impression. From the moment we arrived, we were captivated by its undeniable charm and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the fascinating attractions, indulging in mouthwatering cuisine, or simply strolling through its picturesque streets, Fort Wayne offers a unique blend of excitement and tranquility. As we wrap up our guide, we hope that our firsthand experiences, insider recommendations, and expert tips have inspired you to embark on your own unforgettable adventure in Fort Wayne. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to create lifelong memories in this remarkable city. Fort Wayne awaits you with open arms and a promise of a truly remarkable experience.

Up Next: Stephen and I are eager to dive deeper into Fort Wayne’s food scene and explore it to the fullest. Perhaps I can even convince him to join me in experiencing the luxurious Woodhouse Spa!