As the second largest city in the state, Fort Wayne, IN has a lot to offer those looking to explore the Midwest. From a variety of outdoor parks and activities to culinary hidden gems, there are so many unique things to do in Fort Wayne. We asked local experts to recommend the must-see spots in Summit City to help you explore it to the fullest.
Whether you’re moving to an apartment in Fort Wayne, IN, renting a house in the city, or buying a home in the area, this is your ultimate guide to uncovering the true spirit of the city.
1. You’ll never be bored in the Summit City
“Fort Wayne has been my home for most of my life,” shares Kathryn, owner and wedding photographer at Kathryn Schneider Photography. “I love how it blends the charm of a tight-knit community with the energy of a thriving city. From its varied local restaurants to endless activities, there’s always something new to explore. You’ll often find me working from a local coffee shop or wandering through the aisles of our fantastic libraries.”
2. Get active and explore one of Fort Wayne’s many parks
“We love grabbing our bikes and taking the River Greenway to Kreager Park,” shares Nicole, owner of Fort Wayne Clay Studio where you can take classes for pottery and clay. “Our kids love the splash pad, soccer fields, and playgrounds. When I get a chance to run by myself, I love going to Kreager on my way to or from the pottery studio.”
3. Experience culinary variety at some local staples
Autumn, a local resident and business owner, suggests Ziffles Rib Bar in Georgetown Place. “This family dining restaurant has been in Fort Wayne for 37 years and makes everything in house. I love the pizza and fries, and of course, you can’t go wrong with the ribs.” If you want more food-centered unique things to do in Fort Wayne, check out some of Autumn’s food trucks in the area:
4. Discover what brings people to Fort Wayne
This city is known for many things, but regardless of what your adventure entails, there are still a variety of unique things to do in Fort Wayne once the day is over. Chris Worth is a local performer, playing keyboard and singing a wide variety of music styles at venues and events in Fort Wayne and around the country. Here’s his recommendation and advice to those looking to live in Summit City:
“This city offers something for all cultures. I’ve lived on both coasts of the US, and I find Fort Wayne affordable,” shares Chris Worth. In fact, the cost of living in Fort Wayne is currently 10% lower than the national average. “Additionally, it is truly a wonderful city with vibrant night life and absolutely great parks.”
Considering moving to Fort Wayne? Check out how much rent you can afford in Fort Wayne with our rent calculator.
5. Unique things to do in Fort Wayne for the whole family
With a number of attractions in Fort Wayne, there’s something fun for everyone to explore in this Midwestern gem. “Things my family enjoys are the Fort Wayne Zoo and the Tincaps games at Parkview Field,” shares Tyler, president of Kekionga Craft Co., a local cidery in the Northwest Fort Wayne area. “And you can’t go wrong dining at The Landing or hanging out at several of our great local breweries. Fort Wayne is a growing city and we are proud to be a part of it.”
6. This big city is full of small-town charm
“As someone who has made Fort Wayne home for over a decade, you will fall in love with the uni energy and strong sense of community here,” says Bethanie, lifestyle photographer and owner of Real Living Photography. Hear what she has to say about two beloved downtown spots:
- The Landing: “It’s the perfect blend of coffee shops, local art, local eats, and shopping,” Bethanie explains. “I especially love First Fridays,” a music event taking place every first Friday of the month from May through October.
- Promenade Park: “This is a bustling park with music events, kayaking on the river, a lengthy trail to walk or bike, a city park with amenities for families, and a local brewery.”
7. Take your taste buds on a journey
The Local, a Fort Wayne community news brief, recommends Banh Mi Pho Shop just south of the West Central neighborhood. “We love this local place. The food is excellent, and is on par with some of the best Vietnamese food we’ve had in bigger cities like Los Angeles,” they explain. “We recommend trying a Vodka Taro boba tea if you’re feeling adventurous. The owner also occasionally does Korean corn dog days, and the corn dog banh mi sandwich is to die for.”
8. A collection of unique things to do in Fort Wayne from a local host
We really feel that it is a special place to live,” emphasizes Dusty, president of Barndo Stays, the ultimate dream barn vacation. “One of the main reasons we started our vacation rental here was because we felt like Fort Wayne has so much to offer, and we wanted to share that with others.” Dusty shares his top recommendations of places to visit in the city:
- Sweetwater: The largest music store in the US home to nearly 40,000 feet of music gear and lovingly known as a musician’s paradise.
- Parkview Field: “Take in a game at one of the best minor league baseball stadiums in the country,” says Dusty.
- Coney Island Weiner Stand: This local hot dog stand has been a Fort Wayne staple for classic Coney Dogs since the early 1900s. “Grab a hot dog and chili from a true original with over 100 years of experience,” adds Dusty.
- Local Parks: There are so many gorgeous parks to explore in Fort Wayne full of a variety of activities for all to enjoy.
9. Stroll through a historic garden
“When you are looking to relax and unplug, capture nature’s beauty with a stroll through Lakeside Park & Rose Garden,” shares Molly from Oh Five Scoop Shop, a locally-owned ice cream shop nearby. “The park includes sunken gardens, fountains, a playground, reflection ponds, and the historic rose gardens. A stroll through Lakeside takes you away from the hurried city surroundings and immerses you in the beauty of nature. You can even hit one of the many sports courts, or throw down a picnic blanket. A pint of our hand-dipped premium ice cream makes the perfect picnic treat, or stop by for a scoop after your day’s adventure.”
10. Add some freshness to your grocery run
Utopian Community Grocery is a locally owned grocery store that sells vegetables, herbs, meats, and seafood in bulk online. From April to August every year, you can find their farmers’ market on Oxford Street. Stop by to shop local and stock up on your favorite meal prep items.
11. Have a ball at the local bowling alley
If you’re looking for a one-stop shop for unique things to do in Fort Wayne, this is the place. MVP Lanes is Fort Wayne’s newest bowling alley south of the Glenwood Park neighborhood. Home to not only local leagues and open bowling, this alley is also home to Brunner’s Pub, The Sand Lot volleyball courts, and cornhole boards accommodating their outdoor tiki hut.
Unique things to do in Fort Wayne, IN: Why locals rave about Summit City
With so many unique things to do in Fort Wayne from beautiful parks, to local eats, and activities to explore, there’s no wonder people consider moving to this city. There is something for everyone to enjoy in this hidden gem of the Midwest.
