If you are looking for fun things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana, then you are in the right place.
Making up 16 percent of the sizeable Allen County, Fort Wayne is the second-largest city in Indiana and sits next only to Indianapolis. As a result, this city offers a heartwarming reception to novice travelers and tourists.
From trying out its vibrant nightlife to picturesque nature preserves, the City of Churches is a great stop when exploring this part of the United States.
There are diverse kinds of activities to do and several places to explore in this city.
Let’s check out some of the top things to do in Fort Wayne, IN.
Things to Do in Fort Wayne, Indiana
1. Explore the peculiar Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Check out the amazing collection of American art at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. There are several displays here ranging from the 19th century to contemporary times.
You will see glass art, wood, stone, sculptures, classic toys, and something that would capture your interest like every other person.
The museum has changing exhibitions and you can take advantage of the free general admission every Thursday night.
Flash photography is not allowed inside the museum, so refrain from taking selfies and just utilize your time admiring the treasures here.
Opening hours for the museum are Tuesday – Saturday: 10 am – 6 pm; Thursday: 10 am – 8 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm (closed on Monday).
Address: 311 E Main St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
2. Admire the beautiful Castle Gallery
Castle Gallery
Liven up your Instagram feed when you visit this beautiful Victorian home in the city. This beautiful Victorian home features a vast collection of art and is one of the best things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
You can wander inside and admire quality masterpieces that complement the great floors and ceilings, including the stained glass that offers a warm vibe to the entire castle.
You would gain insight into the beautiful history of the house from the welcoming owners as well as enjoy looking at the paintings placed on the walls up to the third floor.
If you are buoyant, know that these artworks are for sale and perfect for gifts for a friend or souvenirs to take home.
Castle Gallery is open Tuesday – Saturday: 11 am – 6 pm.
Address: 1202 W Wayne St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
3. Be entertained at the Embassy Theatre
Embassy Theatre
Next on this list of fun things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is experiencing a world-class performance in the Embassy Theatre.
It is one of the oldest theatres in Indiana that features national productions including cinema, concerts, and musicals.
The theatre has recently been renovated and improved but it still maintains its historic integrity, and guests can relish watching some of their favorite acts by American and international artists, including a Fort Wayne Philharmonic live orchestra concert.
You would be impressed by the high-end sound system and professional floor layout in its interiors, all providing great visibility of the center stage from any spot.
The fully functional amenities, attentive staff, and comfortable seats complement the excellent architecture and detailing of the building. You’d be in for a one-of-a-kind concert experience at Embassy Theatre.
Address: 125 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46802-3012
4. Enjoy bird watching at Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve
Get close to wildlife at Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve. This 756-acre (306-hectare) nature preserve has fun hiking trails and is home to more than 235 birds and other creatures.
Put together your bags and explore the amazing outdoors. Enjoy numerous wildlife sightings, experience stepping on marshy swamps, and have unlimited picture memories.
Here, you would be surrounded by lush greens and expansive prairies, perfected with the chirping of the insects and birds in the background.
Ensure you come with enough water to keep yourself hydrated throughout the tour, sometimes the sun can be scorching hot, especially during the summer months.
Visiting the Eagle Marsh Nature Preserve is one of the best things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Address: 6801 Engle Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
5. Trek through Rivergreenway Trail
Rivergreenway Trail
Enjoy jogging, walking, or biking around the park surrounded by blossoming grassland and trees. The 20- (32-kilometer) trail running along the banks of St. Joseph, St. Mary’s, and the Maumee River, guarantees you will never run short of space to sweat and have a good workout.
When you are done exercising, relax under the shade of trees and absorb the natural vistas this trail has to offer.
Do well to bring something to eat and drink especially if you’re with the kids as this place is perfect for a mini-picnic.
Access to the trail is free at any time of the day making it one of the best fun things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Address: Fort Wayne, IN 46805
6. See Monkey Island at Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
Go on a thrilling journey with your kids in the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, another lovely thing does in Forth Wayne.
Beat the lazy day in this 38-acre (15-hectare) zoo home to more than 1,000 animals.
You can allow the family members to have a closer experience with wildlife as you explore four attractions, including the Indonesian Rainforest, Central Zoo, Australian Adventure, and the African Journey.
Interact with zookeepers who promote awareness and learn about each species while enjoying experiences like a train ride through the Amazon, a boat ride in Crocodile Creek Adventure, and giraffe feeding.
After a day of exploring the zoo, grab an appetizing meal in any of the restaurants inside the premises, or bring your food along for a picnic.
A visit to Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is one of the top things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana, with kids.
Address: 3411 Sherman Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46808
7. Hop on the trampoline at Sky Zone Fort Wayne
Create a great bond with your travel buddies or family by having fun at Sky Zone. The use of trampolines in this place offers an amazing flying adventure for everyone.
Let your kids have fun by playing in a giant sea of foam arranged in a kid-friendly setting that is perfectly safe for your little ones.
Embrace the fun activities combined with workouts like the Skyladder, Ninja Warrior Course, and Battle Beam. Remember to take water for hydration and you can grab something to eat at Fuel Zone – an on-site eatery that offers various kinds of snacks and drinks to refuel your energy.
Opening hours are as follows: Tuesday – Thursday: 4 pm – 8 pm; Friday: 12 pm – 11 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 11 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 7 pm (closed on Monday).
Address: 401 Fernhill Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
8. Watch a thrilling performance at Foellinger Theatre
Foellinger Theatre
The Foellinger Theatre is an outdoor theater in Fort Wayne that showcases movie series, musical concerts, and even circus troupe performances.
Witness delightful performances of local and international artists; whether you’re into RnB, ballad, or rock, you’ll enjoy vibing with your favorite band.
Their state-of-the-art sound system complements the performance and you can relax on the comfy chairs available for all spectators giving a guaranteed view of the stage.
Before you sit, don’t forget to get a quick bite and a drink from the stores encircling the venue so you don’t miss a scene during the show.
Address: 3411 Sherman Blvd in Franke Park, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46808
9. Meet the locals at Barr Street Market
Located on Berry Street, just adjacent to the History Center is the historic Barr Street Market which holds on Saturday mornings from May to September.
Here you can buy organic products, like fresh vegetables, fruits, and other ingredients, to enable you to prepare that decent meal back in your homestay.
You would also meet and interact with the locals of the area. If you are hunting for souvenirs, the market also sells home decor, hand-crafted jewelry, and other local goods.
Please be an environment-friendly consumer by bringing eco-bag to reduce the waste of single-use plastic bags.
The market is open on Saturdays: 9 am – 1 pm.
Address: 302 E Berry St., Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
10. Have fun with science at Science Central
Science Central
Let your little ones engage with different activities such as zooming down a two-story slide, learning about outer space, and participating in a live science demonstration about the human body, the weather, matter, and other topics.
You will not fall short of places for photo ops that can be seen inside the center, from the doorway to the colorful rooms.
Don’t allow the bad weather to rain on your parade, this is a fun-filled, three-floor adventure filled with interesting science facts that match all age categories.
Opening hour is Wednesday – Friday: 10 am – 4 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 5 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 5 pm (closed from Monday – Tuesday)
Address: 1950 N. Clinton St., Fort Wayne, IN 46805
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11. Grab a pint at Mad Anthony Brewing Company
Another good thing to do in Fort Wayne is go to Mad Anthony Brewing Company. This full-service bar is cherished by visitors to the city especially drink lovers.
You can enjoy a pint or two from the variety of craft cocktails and beverages offered in this bar. Have a taste of their freshly made non-alcoholic root beer, brewed to perfection and best served with crispy chicken wings.
Relax in the cool, breezy atmosphere of the dining area where you can have a complete meal of pasta, salad, and the popular Mad Mad Mad Burger while enjoying some live music.
Do you intend to have a private get-together with your friends, do well to book the Mad Room situated in the back?
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 11 am – 11 pm; Friday – Saturday: 11 am – 12 am; Sunday: 11 am – 10 pm.
Address: 2002 Broadway, Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
12. Embrace nature at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
Embrace green nature by visiting this enclosed botanical garden located in downtown Fort Wayne. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory consists of three greenhouses filled with desert, tropical, and seasonal plants.
Partake in a journey of discovery and gaining knowledge as you learn more about each species from the friendly and helpful staff.
Go green by surrounding yourself with this lush nature in this place. Check out the colorful butterfly exhibit and other unique parts of the conservatory.
Note that these displays e temporary and change often depending on the season, especially during Christmas.
Grab a bite by going in and don’t forget to dress in layers because the temperature varies with respect to what part of the conservatory you’re in.
The conservatory is open on Tuesdays and Wednesdays (10 am – 5 pm), Thursdays and Fridays (10 am – 8 pm), and Sundays (12 pm – 4 pm).
Address: 1100 S Calhoun St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
13. Visit the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception
Before you explore or leave the city, say a little prayer and ask for a safe trip to this cathedral. The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is considered the oldest church in Fort Wayne.
You can attend a service on Saturday or Sunday afternoon, or visit to immerse yourself in the tranquil atmosphere.
After praying, take a walk around to view the intricate stained glass, the extraordinarily detailed Station of the Cross, and some other religious adornments.
Walk down to Cathedral Square and admire the exterior or check the museum next to it that shelters relics from past priests and other catchy displays.
Visit Monday to Friday (8:45 am – 4:30 pm); Saturday (1 pm – 6 pm) or Sunday (7:30 am – 6 pm).
Address: 1122 S Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
14. Check out the African/African-American Historical Museum
African/African-American Historical Museum
Next on this list of fun things to do in Fort Wayne, IN is the African/African-American Historical Museum. In this museum, you can look back at events in African American history.
This museum houses the largest collection of original African art in Northeast Indiana and you can gain an in-depth knowledge of the lives and struggles of the people who put in efforts to make Fort Wayne and the entire United States into what it is today.
While viewing several pictures, artifacts, and selected items from Africa, you will discover facts from the American slave era.
Opening hours for the museum are Monday – Friday: 10 am – 4 pm (closed on Saturday – Sunday).
Address: 436 E Douglas Ave., Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802
15. Enjoy a show while dining at Arena Dinner Theatre
Arena Dinner Theatre
Do you want to experience an eclectic atmosphere of theatre arts in Fort Wayne? Then, get down to the Arena Dinner Theatre.
Nestled right in the center of West Central, just off Rockhill, this small theater oozes charm despite having a limited seating capacity.
It is complete and with an annual arrangement of full-length theatrical plays, you will surely enjoy a show whether you love suspense, comedy, or romance.
Purchase your tickets ahead of time since performances are usually sold out early.
Address: 719 Rockhill Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
16. Catch a performance by Fort Wayne Philharmonic
During your stay in the city, allow Fort Wayne Philharmonic to serenade you with their symphony orchestra.
Let your night be filled with ageless and classical music accompanied by an elegant atmosphere while reviving your soul with pieces by Bach, Beethoven, and Mozart among other composers.
This orchestra performs in several venues in Fort Wayne, including Parkview Field, Embassy Theater, and Arts United Center.
It makes it very easy for you to find a convenient time and place to watch a pool of talents from this group of musicians.
Address: 4901 Fuller Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46835
17. Shop till you drop at Glenbrook Square
Glenbrook Square
Check out Glenbrook Square if you want to spend your hard-earned cash while in Fort Wayne as they have everything from apparel and home decor to beauty and health.
If you have a coin to spare, make a wish in the fountain or you can allow kids to enjoy the merry-go-round located on the lower level of the mall.
At the end of the day, pick out a restaurant from over a dozen in the food court area to satisfy your appetite.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday: 10 am – 9 pm; Sunday: 11 am – 6 pm.
Address: 4201 Coldwater Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
18. Loosen up at Lakeside Park and Rose Garden
Lakeside Park and Rose Garden
Another lovely thing to do in Fort Wayne enjoys the beauty of Lakeside Park and Rose Garden.
This lakeside park is complete with a sunken garden that boasts colorful flowers, fountains, and well-designed pavilions.
You would enjoy the fresh air from the surrounding lush greenery and the sweet scent oozing from a thousand roses in full bloom.
Come with your camera and be prepared to strike poses in a park that offers several spots for Instagram-worthy shots – one reason it is a famous venue for wedding events and other pictorials.
When you are done exploring the area, you can sit under the shade of a tree and enjoy your packed lunch with family or friends
Opening hours are 6 am – 11 pm (daily).
Address: 1401 Lake Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
19. Tour the Fort Wayne Firefighters’ Museum
Fort Wayne Firefighters’ Museum
Located across the Grand Wayne Convention Center complex, Fort Wayne Firefighters’ Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of firefighting in the city.
You will see some artifacts that were previously used by the Fort Wayne Fire Department, like an 1848 hose tower, button hand pumper, and some older fire engines all well-preserved.
Pay attention to the curator who is vast in knowledge and has a lot to say about public safety, the history of engineering, and the incorporation of technology in safety.
Don’t forget to stop by the theatre area where you can see an informative fire safety video to cap off your tour.
Operational hours for the museum is Monday – Tuesday, Thursday – Friday: 10 am – 4 pm, and Saturday: 10 am – 3 pm.
Address: 226 W Washington Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
20. Get to the past at History Center
History Center
Would you want to learn about the history of Fort Wayne and other parts of Indiana? Then, head to the History Center, as this museum exhibits a wide array of artifacts and documents about the city.
As you explore the building, you will discover the earliest inhabitants in the city, the Miami Indian history, and the pioneering move of the city.
Even the hallways are filled with informative displays. For example, the stairs going down to the old jail in the basement leads to separate cells for men and women. They are preserved together with authentic wall graffiti from prisoners.
Apart from the permanent displays, the museum holds special events for topics that affected the history of Fort Wayne and Allen County.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday: 10 am – 5 pm; Saturday: 12 pm – 5 pm (closed on Sunday)
Address: 302 E Berry St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
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21. Escape Fort Wayne
If you are not adventurous or comfortable being in a confined space, then this is not for you.
The Escape Fort Wayne is a room where you and your team (friends or family) are locked in for sixty minutes, have solved clues, and provided answers to questions for escape.
It is quite mysterious and mentally challenges you to think tactically. They have the option of two rooms – The Lake or The Office.
Be brave, you will be pushed to your limits but at the same time make amazing memories.
22. Tour the exceptional Fort Wayne Aviation Museum
Embrace the opportunity of having a sensational aviation experience while touring the Fort Wayne Aviation Museum.
Located at Fort Wayne International Airport, this museum displays diverse Fort Wayne aeronautical memorabilia featuring commercial, military, and general aviation facts.
You would learn about the lives of Art Smith and WWI Ace, Lt. Paul Baer, and how they contributed to the field as you find out some well-preserved artifacts going back to the 40s up to the present time.
It is the perfect activity for you to indulge in while waiting for your flight out of Fort Wayne seeing the museum is only accessible by passengers who have cleared the airport’s security checkpoint.
Opening hours: Mondays to Thursdays between 9 am and 4 pm. The entrance is free.
Address: 3801 W Ferguson Rd, Fort Wayne, IN 46809
23. Discover Native Trees of Indiana River Walk
Breathe in the fresh air while taking a leisure walk on Purdue University Fort Wayne grounds. Boasting over 100 native trees, a walk on this ground is one of the best things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Snap an of a flowering dogwood during spring or ambulate under the shade of maple trees that can transform from yellow to orange and red during autumn.
Apart from ingenious trees, you’ll also find various kinds of flowering plants, shrubs, and vines coexisting mutually with several animals.
There is no fuss if you wish to bring a person with special needs because the 1.25-mile (2-kilometer) paved trail can be partially accessed by wheelchair.
Address: 2101 E. Coliseum Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
24. Check out the astounding Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum
The Allen County War Memorial Coliseum is another must-do thing in Fort Wayne.
Spend your day watching a sports event or musical concert in this coliseum built to remember war veterans.
Suppose you want a night out to enjoy a visit with family and friends in Fort Wayne. In that case, this site is the best place to be, covering educational, entertainment, and business-related events and activities.
Regardless of your seat position, you will get great views of the entire arena and have fun cheering for your team or enjoy watching a stellar performance by your favorite artist.
Anticipate all the upcoming events and purchase your tickets in advance for a hassle-free experience.
Address: 4000 Parnell Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
25. Have a picnic at Headwaters Park
Headwaters Park
Headwaters Park is a beautiful 30-acre (12-hectare) park located in downtown Fort Wayne. Come with a basket along with your travel buddies for a picnic in this park. It is very deal for family bonding.
The surrounding trees provide enough shade to let you feel the cool breeze while you read your favorite book or play board games with your friends.
You can beat the heat during the summer months by letting your kids play in the free splash pad area while you show off your skills in the ice-skating rink open from late November until February.
Plan well to see if an event such as festivals and concerts will occur here during your stay so that your visit would be a peak.
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 1 pm – 8 pm; Friday: 12 pm – 10 pm; Saturday: 11 am – 10 pm; Sunday: 12 pm – 8 pm.
Address: 333 S. Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
26. Walk around Parkview Field
Parkview Field
Parkview Field is a stadium located in the central business district of Fort Wayne. This stadium which is the home of the Fort Wayne TinCaps, a minor league baseball team, offers a wide array of events that all visitors will surely love.
Apart from the conventional baseball game, Parkview Field also hosts special events like parties, wedding receptions, and conferences.
Take a walk around the stadium during a Farmers Market day and buy organic produce and other handcrafted goods. Then, bring your family for a memorable experience by seeing a game while savoring snacks.
Make sure you stay back for the beautiful fireworks display at the end of the game. It is indeed one of the best fun things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Opening hours are Monday to Friday (9 am – 5 pm), however, the stadium is closed from Saturday to Sunday.
Address: 1301 Ewing St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
27. Try martinis at Chop’s Wine Bar
Chop’s Wine Bar
Enjoy great good and lovely company in Fort Wayne’s restaurant. They serve amazing cocktails, martinis, gourmet meals, and craft beers.
Delight your taste buds with a menu of their featured steak, blue crab cakes, and garden-fresh salad while relishing the ambiance that makes a nice place for conversation over dinner.
If you have any allergies or food preferences, don’t hesitate to inform the friendly staff since the chef is ready to go the extra mile to accommodate your needs.
Cap off your meal with a sweet dessert then go check out the wine bar just next door to the restaurant. You would have a wide variety of drinks to enjoy.
Address: 6417 W Jefferson Blvd, Fort Wayne, IN 46804
28. Relish sweet treats at DeBrand Fine Chocolates
Turn your ordinary day into a sweet and special one with delectable chocolates in DeBrand Fine Chocolates. It is a high-end store that produces fine chocolates, delightful hot chocolate drinks, and piping hot coffee in Fort Wayne.
Treat your sweet tooth and enjoy every bite of caramel pecan patty, truffle, and caramel apple. They offer candies that are candies are delicately handcrafted and made from scratch using the finest ingredients.
Join a tour at the headquarters to see the chocolatiers in action, typically lasting for 45 minutes. Don’t forget to buy some to take home.
They are open from Monday to Thursday 7 am – 9 pm; Friday: 7 am – 10:30 pm; Saturday: 10 am – 10:30 pm; and Sunday: 12 pm – 6 pm.
Address: 10105 Auburn Park Dr, Fort Wayne, IN 46825, United States
29. Enjoy hot dogs at Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island
Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island
Escape the busy streets of Fort Wayne and get to the oldest hot dog stand in America. Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island is absolutely a must-visit attraction in the city.
You’d salivate as soon as you see the rows of sausage grilling decently lined up in the store’s front window and patiently wait for you to place an order.
Grab a bite of the steamed soft bun prepared with hand-chopped onions, mustard, flavorful sauce, and sausage.
You can pair it with a slice of pie and freshly brewed coffee or hot chocolate. It is heavenly yet an old-school dining experience.
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday: 8 pm – 10 pm; Friday – Saturday: 8 am 11 pm; Sunday: 9 am – 9 pm.
Address: 131 W Main St, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
30. Explore The Old Fort and its history
Old Fort
Finally on our list of fun things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana, is visiting the Old Fort. Whether you are interested in history or not, spending time in this large public park is a great way to learn the history of Fort Wayne.
The park is surrounded by authentic and restored buildings and you can learn about the significance of the Old Fort thanks to the knowledgeable volunteers who will guide you around the grounds.
If you find no volunteers to tour you around, you can still enjoy your time reading information about the place, history, and how each building was used.
Do well to witness an event describing the lives of earlier inhabitants of Fort Wayne. The place is open 24 hours every day
Address: 1201 Spy Run Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46805.
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Plan your trip to Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne is an American City Award winner which prides itself on a low cost of living and high-quality lifestyle, making its visitors always come back for more.
You have a lot to explore and enjoy while on vacation in this city. So, plan your visit to this lovely destination with your loved ones.
Feel free to check back here if you need some guidance in making your bucket list of things to do in Fort Wayne, Indiana.