Spend a Weekend in Fort Wayne, Indiana

I’ve spent some amazing time exploring Fort Wayne and have plenty of recommendations to share. If you haven’t been to the northeast corner of Indiana lately, now’s the perfect time to plan a visit. Alongside its rich history and beloved landmarks, there’s a fresh energy running through the city. So many new and exciting things are happening in the Fort!

And let’s talk about the food. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty meal or need a cozy coffee break, Fort Wayne is packed with fantastic restaurants and charming cafés that make it easy (and delicious) to refuel between adventures.

A special thanks to Visit Fort Wayne for hosting my trip. All opinions in this article are my own.

Things to Do in Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

I started my trip with a visit to the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo. Don’t let the word “children” fool you—this zoo is just as much for adults as it is for kids! In fact, I came solo this time—no kids in tow. A grown-up field trip, if you will! The zoo is fantastic for families, couples, seniors, and solo adventurers alike. Covering 40 acres, it may be smaller than some big-city zoos, but don’t underestimate it – it’s consistently ranked among the top zoos in the nation. Small but mighty, indeed!

Honestly, I get just as excited as the kids when it’s time to feed the giraffes. The orangutan exhibit is another personal favorite—I could watch their playful antics and graceful swings through the trees for hours. The daily sea lion shows up-close animal experiences, and keeper chats add even more fun and interactive layers to the visit. It’s truly a place where everyone, regardless of age, can reconnect with their inner child or at least their inner animal lover.

The Landing 

After lunch, I walked over to The Landing to check out some of the murals and grab coffee. The Landing is located in a historic district of town that has been restored to offer charming businesses and housing in the downtown area. I LOVE seeing these historic renovations happening in cities everywhere! Revitalizing something old is not only great for visitors but also for residents. Visiting The Landing is a must-see while in town – check out their restaurants, events, shops, historic landmarks, and murals!

Fort Wayne Museum of Art

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art (another stop in the Midwest Road Trip Adventures book) was perfect for my next afternoon activity. After a morning of adventuring through the zoo, the art museum provided me with some time to slow down and appreciate American art from the 19th century to the present day. Seating is available throughout the museum, allowing you to sit down and enjoy the art in solitude. Tip: Admission is free on Thursday evenings.

Riverfront Fort Wayne

Before dinner, I headed to Promenade Park to catch one of the last Riverfront Fort Wayne concerts of the season. It was a beautiful evening to take in live music on the river. Promenade Park was lively with their interactive kids’ canal, ping-pong tables, swings, and the Trubble Riverside Cafe and Tap was open for customers.

Parkview Field & Fort Wayne Tincaps

Fort Wayne has deep roots in baseball history. It’s actually where the first-ever professional game was played back in 1871 at the old Memorial Stadium. While that historic venue closed its doors in 2008, the city’s love for the game lives on at Parkview Field. Now home to the Fort Wayne TinCaps, this downtown gem has earned the title of the number one minor league ballpark in the country.

Tickets to a TinCaps game are budget-friendly, making it an affordable outing for families, couples, or anyone looking for a fun evening. One of the highlights? The post-game fireworks light up the sky after every home game. Parkview Field is impressively clean and well-maintained and offers a welcoming atmosphere for all ages. Beyond baseball, the venue also hosts concerts, fundraisers, festivals, and even birthday parties. When games and events aren’t on the schedule, the field transforms into a public park, open daily from 7 a.m. to sunset. It’s more than just a stadium; it’s a community space at the heart of downtown Fort Wayne.

Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Conservatory

The next morning, I headed to the Fort Wayne Botanical Conservatory, located just a block from the Hampton Inn & Suites! I was able to leave my car in the parking garage and walk to the botanical conservatory from the hotel. The gardens are gorgeous, featuring three indoor gardens and several outdoor gardens as well. The indoor Showcase Garden changes seasonally, offering something new to see throughout the year. After your visit, stop by the gift shop and Conjure Coffee to grab a coffee and enjoy among the plants!

Where to Eat in Fort Wayne

Fort Wayne’s Famous Coney Island

For lunch, I made a quick stop at the one and only Fort Wayne Famous Coney Island (which is also featured in my book, Midwest Road Trip Adventures). Started in 1913, it’s the oldest Coney Island stand in the United States. It’s a Fort Wayne classic, and for under $6.00, you can grab yourself three coney dogs. It’s a no-frills, walk-in eatery located off Main Street downtown. Look for the neon sign! 

Conner’s Kitchen + Bar

I grabbed dinner at Conner’s Kitchen + Bar, next door to Parkview Field. It was an easy carry-out option. They offer both dine-in and carry-out options, along with some great chopped salads!

Don Hall’s Old Gas House Restaurant

Don Hall’s Old Gas House stands out as one of Fort Wayne’s most distinctive dining experiences. Housed on the site of a 19th-century gas plant, the restaurant blends historic charm with a warm, romantic atmosphere. Think exposed brick walls, original wood floors, and a cozy, old-school vibe.

The food? Just as impressive. I ordered the brisket, and it was tender, smoky, and satisfying. And while I didn’t try it myself, the wedge salad looked absolutely award-worthy (I may have had a little plate envy). Whether you’re looking for a memorable date night spot or a unique place to enjoy dinner with friends, The Gas House is a Fort Wayne gem.

Ophelia’s

Ophelia’s is hands-down one of the best brunch spots in Fort Wayne. Tucked inside a beautifully restored 1800s home, it offers an inviting atmosphere with the option to dine on a charming outdoor patio when the weather’s right. This all-day café serves brunch and lunch favorites from morning through late afternoon, along with an impressive selection of coffee and tea drinks. Drinks are thoughtfully crafted and made with homemade syrups. Ophelia’s is a must-visit for foodies and coffee lovers alike.

Where to Stay in Fort Wayne

Hampton Inn & Suites Fort Wayne

A great place to land for the night is the Hampton Inn & Suites in downtown Fort Wayne. The location is fabulous. It is within walking distance of everything and directly across the street from the Grand Wayne Center, next door to Parkview Field, and adjacent to the Embassy Theatre. The suites are huge, and some of the rooms offer a great view of the ballpark.

• Hotel tip: Garage parking with 24-hour access is available, offering in-and-out privileges. You can pay for this service upon check-in at the hotel. This is the best deal and worth it if you plan to go places nearby the next morning; you can keep your vehicle parked in the garage.

The Bradley Hotel + Arbor

The Bradley Hotel is a brand-new boutique hotel located downtown and designed by Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, the co-founder of Vera Bradley. I just knew this hotel was going to be gorgeous! Although I didn’t stay overnight, I did visit the Arbor for brunch, and that was a special treat in itself! The Arbor is a café and coffee bar located on the lower level of the hotel, serving breakfast and lunch. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, along with a vibrant atmosphere.

VRBOs and Airbnbs

The last time I was in Fort Wayne, we stayed in a lovely, recently renovated cottage in the city. This chic Historic Cape Cod 2-bedroom is stylish, featuring a covered patio, full kitchen, fireplace, and comfortable seating.

Take a tour of the Cape Cod VRBO:

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More things to do in Fort Wayne:

• Science Central is a super cool, hands-on science museum that offers interactive exhibits for all ages, located in Fort Wayne’s first power plant building.
• Take a delicious tour of DeBrand Fine Chocolates. Tours run Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Samples and video presentations are included.
• Fort Wayne Public Art Trail – Sign up for the public art digital passport and gain access to a list of over 100 murals and sculptures. Check in at each location to qualify for prizes!
• Take a peaceful stroll through Lakeside Park, known for its beautiful rose garden, charming walking paths, and relaxing green spaces. It’s a lovely spot for a picnic or just to unwind in nature.

• Located within the Allen County Public Library, the Rolland Center provides an immersive experience of Abraham Lincoln’s life and legacy. It’s an engaging blend of technology, storytelling, and history, definitely worth a visit for history buffs and curious minds.
• Johnny Appleseed’s final resting place is tucked away in Johnny Appleseed Park (also known as Archer Park) in Fort Wayne. The modest gravesite lies atop a small mound in what was once the Archer family cemetery. Surrounded by a wrought-iron fence, the simple tombstone reads: “Johnny Appleseed. He lived for others. 1774–1845.” While the marker commemorates him, the precise burial spot remains uncertain—he was likely interred somewhere on that hill rather than exactly at the stone.
• The Hanson Quarry Observation Deck is currently undergoing reconstruction, but once it reopens, it’s a must-see roadside stop in Fort Wayne. The deck offers a dramatic view of a massive limestone quarry, often referred to as “Indiana’s Grand Canyon,” that stretches 1,000 feet deep. In operation since 1942, the quarry continues to grow deeper each day.

Nearby things to do:

• 9 Unique Places to Visit in Fort Wayne
• Escape to the Charming Lakeside Chautauqua
• Shipshewana: Music, Cuisine, and Amish Country Charm
• Exploring Shipshewana: A Journey into Amish Country

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