Fort Wayne is the kind of summer getaway families love—packed with memorable attractions, affordable fun, and a friendly “big-city, small-town” feel. From nationally recognized attractions to outdoor adventures and summer festivals, there are plenty of ways to fill your family’s bucket list in Fort Wayne.
1. Visit one of the best zoos in the nation
A trip to the Fort Wayne Zoo belongs on every family summer bucket list. Kids can pet a stingray, feed a giraffe, explore the Bamboo Forest ropes-style course, and spend the day discovering animal encounters and hands-on fun around every corner.
2. Cheer on the home team
Play ball with the Fort Wayne TinCaps at Parkview Field, one of the best minor-league baseball experiences around. Families can enjoy the energy of game day, kid-friendly fun, and post-game fireworks. Soccer fans can also catch the excitement of Fort Wayne Football Club during their inaugural USL League One season.
3. Get outside and explore Fort Wayne’s rivers and trails
Built where three rivers meet, Fort Wayne makes it easy to turn a summer day into an outdoor adventure. Paddle the rivers, bike or walk miles of trails, or head to Promenade Park to enjoy the kids’ canal, tree canopy trail, swings, lawn games, and riverfront fun. For even more adventure, check out Fort Wayne Outfitters for kayak and canoe rentals.
4. Spend a day discovering hands-on science
Take the fun indoors at Science Central, where more than 200 hands-on exhibits keep kids learning and playing all at once. Catch a live science demonstration, splash in the water zone, and check out the planetarium for an even more immersive experience.
5. Walk through butterflies and beautiful gardens
Step into the live butterfly exhibit at the Botanical Conservatory, Fort Wayne’s botanical gardens featuring three beautiful gardens under glass. It’s an easy way to add a little wonder and color to your family’s summer trip.
6. See inspiring art downtown
Keep the creativity going with a stop at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, where families can explore galleries and discover striking works in the museum’s glass wing. It’s a fun and easy add-on to a downtown day.
7. Dine outdoors and try something new
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy patio dining and local flavors. Stroll through The Landing for a cluster of great restaurants in one walkable block, or explore the food stalls and family-friendly atmosphere at Union Street Market.
8. Turn sightseeing into an art adventure
Explore murals and sculptures across the city with the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail. Families can use the pass on their phones to find public art, check in at stops, and even earn prizes along the way.
9. Add a summer festival to your trip
Headwaters Park comes alive in the summer with festivals, food, music, and family-friendly events. From Fiesta Fort Wayne, Greek Fest, and Germanfest to Pride Fest, the Dragon Boat Races, and Taste of the Arts, there’s almost always something happening. Find more at visitfortwayne.com/events.
10. Play the day away at Fort Wayne entertainment centers
