Stylish architecture, large parks and a host of galleries and museums await in this friendly, lively city in Indiana.
A spacious, leafy city built on the point where three separate rivers converge, Fort Wayne retains a small-town feel despite being home to over a quarter of a million people. The city is the second-largest in Indiana and was named after statesman Anthony Wayne who built a fort here during the American War of Independence in the 1700s.
Fort Wayne experiences four distinct seasons with hot summers and cold, snowy winters. Visit in summer and join the locals walking along the rivers or enjoying picnics in the large outdoor areas, such as Johnny Appleseed Park. This green space north of downtown lies on the banks of the St. Joseph River and is the final resting place of famous missionary Johnny Appleseed. Go fishing, boating or kayaking on the river and hike and bike along trails in the park. Pick up a booklet from the Visitor’s Center off Washington Boulevard to take a self-guided architectural tour of the town. See the Cathedral of Immaculate Conception built in 1860, mid-century mansions and the impressive Embassy Theatre.
A great way to spend chilly winter days is to explore the city’s many galleries and museums. Choose from more than 15 institutions, including the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, which contains a large collection of works by American artists such as William Forsyth and Janet Fish. Find out about the city’s more than three centuries of history at the Fort Wayne History Center. When you need some bracing fresh air go iceskating in Headwaters Park or sledding and cross-country skiing in any one of the city’s outdoor areas.
Children will love the hands-on exhibits at Science Central and days out at the Children’s Zoo. See 1,500 animals housed in exhibits based around Indonesian rain forests, African savannahs and more.
Fort Wayne is 130 miles (209 kilometers) north of Indianapolis and 163 miles (262 kilometers) east of Chicago. Most major attractions are within walking distance of the city center. Reach the parks on the outskirts of Fort Wayne by car or bus and make the most of the many outdoor activities this pretty city has to offer.