Fort Wayne Indiana: Your Guide to the City’s Top Attractions in 2024

Stay connected with Airtel’s international roaming plans as you explore Fort Wayne, Indiana, in 2024, ensuring seamless communication while discovering the city’s top attractions, vibrant culture, and local charm.

Fort Wayne, Indiana’s second largest city, packs a surprising punch. This under-the-radar Midwest gem offers an impressive array of things to do for every type of traveler. The revitalized downtown pulses with new energy, thanks to recent additions like Promenade Park and The Pearl.

 

Whether you’re a fan of the outdoors, a history buff, an art aficionado, or a foodie, Fort Wayne has you covered. The city’s expansive parks system, interactive museums, flourishing dining scene, and unique shopping spots provide endless ways to explore. Here’s your insider’s guide to the top things to do in Fort Wayne Indiana in 2024.

 

1. Spend a Day at the Award-Winning Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

One of the city’s crown jewels, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo consistently ranks among the nation’s best. In 2024, exciting new exhibits make it a must-visit:

• Red Panda Ridge: Get up close to these adorable creatures in their new Himalayan-style habitat.

• Bamboo Forest: Stroll through a lush forest of towering bamboo.

• Coastal Cove: Discover the wonders of the Pacific coast, from sea lions to puffins.

Don’t miss the Wild Ride, a two-story ropes course, and the Sky Safari, a free-flying sky rail offering a bird’s-eye view of the zoo.

 

2. Explore Fort Wayne’s Thriving Art Scene

a. Fort Wayne Museum of Art

 

This downtown gem houses an impressive collection spanning three centuries. 2024 highlights:

• Paul Stankard Collection: See works by the world’s top flameworked glass paperweight artist.

• “Día de los Muertos”: A vibrant celebration of this Mexican holiday.

Exhibit	Dates	Must-See Works
Paul Stankard Collection	Ongoing	“Endless Bouquet”
Día de los Muertos 2024	Oct-Nov	Traditional altars

b. Public Art Trail

Follow this self-guided tour to discover over 150 murals, sculptures and installations across the city. Don’t miss “Metaform” at The Pearl, a mesmerizing LED light display.

 

3. Immerse Yourself in History & Culture

a. The Pearl

Once a neglected corner of downtown, The Pearl is now a bustling mixed-use space. Explore its:

• Shops & Restaurants

• Pearl Street Arts Center: Music academy, auditorium, galleries

• Artisan alley: Watch glassblowers, potters & more at work

Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully experience The Pearl’s offerings.

b. Electric Works

This former GE factory has been transformed into a vibrant community hub. Highlights:

• Union Street Market: A food hall with 20+ local vendors

• Co-working spaces

• Shopping: Boutiques, artisans & more

• Expansive outdoor spaces for events & recreation

Plan to spend a half or full day exploring Electric Works’ 700,000 sq ft campus.

 

4. Get Outside in Fort Wayne’s Impressive Parks

With over 80 award-winning parks covering 2,800+ acres, Fort Wayne is a paradise for outdoor lovers.

a. Promenade Park

Situated in the heart of downtown along the riverfront, Promenade Park offers:

• Tree canopy trail

• Accessible bouldering mound

• Hammock grove

• Dining at teds snack + bar

• Shaved ice at Tropical Sno

Allow 1-2 hours to enjoy the park. Rent a kayak or canoe to paddle the river.

b. Headwaters Park

This 30-acre park is a popular spot for festivals and events. Weekly summer highlights:

• Lunch on the Square: Live music & food trucks every Thursday

• Botanical Roots Concert Series: Outdoor evening concerts select Fridays

Check the park’s event calendar when planning your visit.

c. 142+ Miles of Trails

Hike, bike or jog the scenic Rivergreenway, which winds along the St. Marys, St. Joseph and Maumee rivers. The newly extended Pufferbelly Trail offers 13 miles of Rails-to-Trails splendor.

 

5. Savor Fort Wayne’s Flourishing Food Scene

a. Union Street Market at Electric Works

This new food hall is a must for foodies. Sample everything from pizza to poke to pastries at 20+ stalls. Don’t miss:

• Keto-friendly treats at Charlie’s Bakery

• Smash burgers at Brooks Burgers

• Burmese specialties at Mahnin Asian cuisine

The market is open Wed-Sun, 11am-8pm. Go for lunch to beat the crowds.

b. Farm-to-Table Fare

Enjoy fresh, seasonal dishes showcasing local ingredients at:

• Tolon: Upscale American cuisine in a historic building

• Copper Spoon: Innovative cocktails & shareable plates

• Bird & Cleaver: Sandwiches & salads with a Southern twist

Make reservations, especially on weekends, as these spots fill up fast.

c. Comfort Classics

For unfussy, filling meals, head to one of Fort Wayne’s many diners. Top picks:

• Cindy’s Diner: 1950s-style spot famous for garbage plates

• Klemm’s Candlelite Cafe: German-American eats in a cozy setting

• Azars Big Boy: Burgers, breakfasts & pie 24/7

Go early or late to avoid wait times, as these popular joints don’t take reservations.

 

6. Discover Fort Wayne’s Unique Shopping Scene

a. Downtown

Jefferson Pointe is Fort Wayne’s premier outdoor shopping center. Browse major retailers and locally-owned boutiques. Check out:

• Opal & Ruby Gift Emporium for handmade jewelry & home decor

• The Find for vintage furniture & accessories

• DeBrand Fine Chocolates for decadent handcrafted truffles

b. Georgetown Square

This charming neighborhood is home to an eclectic mix of indie shops. Finds include:

• Old Crown Coffee Roasters: Small-batch beans & pour-overs

• Hyde Brothers Booksellers: Used & rare books in a creaky 2-story shop

• Fancy & Staple: Whimsical gifts & stationery

Allow a full morning or afternoon to explore Georgetown Square’s hidden gems.

 

7. Experience the Botanical Conservatory

Escape to the tropics year-round at this lush oasis in the heart of downtown. The Conservatory’s three indoor gardens showcase exotic plants from around the globe.

2024 exhibits:

• “Botanical Speedway” (Spring): Race-car themed displays

• “Color in Motion” (Summer): Live butterfly show

• “Raise a Glass” (Fall): Celebrate fall’s bounty

• “Grove for the Holidays” (Winter): Enchanting light displays

The Conservatory is open Tues-Sun, 10am-5pm. Allow 1-2 hours for your visit.

Final Thoughts

 

With so much to see and do in Fort Wayne, you’ll want to stay connected to easily navigate the city, make reservations, and share your experiences. Airtel’s Postpaid international roaming plans have you covered.

 

Fort Wayne may fly under the radar, but this vibrant Midwestern city is well worth seeking out. From world-class attractions to a booming dining scene to endless outdoor adventures, there’s no shortage of memorable things to do in Fort Wayne Indiana. Start planning your 2024 visit now—and come discover this hidden heartland gem for yourself.