There’s nothing quite like spending summertime in Fort Wayne. From sunrise to sunset, the city’s townscape and naturescape present a visual delight, every angle captivating. Walking around downtown will draw you closer to stories painted in sculptures and murals, tasted in recipes and savored in refreshing drinks, all imbibed with the warmth of those residing here. Outdoor activities also abound, where parks and trails are perfect for finding solitude or company. Everything about this city invites you to take on an adventure of discovery and re-discovery as you maximize the remaining weeks of summer. Fort Wayne is waiting for you.
Laid-Back Outdoor Concerts
via Visit Fort Wayne
Being serenaded under the stars or against the backdrop of parks and rivers? We’re here for it. Outdoor concerts are a favorite this season as it gives the opportunity to get out while enjoying great music, delicious food and a festive atmosphere. Some of the free summer concerts in line are the Downtown Live! at the PNC Plaza every Friday (6-8pm) until August 9, the Muddy River Concert Series at Promenade Park with two more remaining schedules on August 7 and August 21 (6-8 pm), and the Music on the Plaza which present local bands and a Food Truck experience from 11:30 am-1:30 pm on August 7. More of Fort Wayne’s summer concert series, here. Let music set your summer mood.
Parks, Trails and Waterways
via fortwayneparks.org
Now is one of the best times to connect with nature. With more than 80 parks and over 120 miles of trails to explore in the city, adventures are endless. Be mesmerized by over 2,000 rose plants at the Lakeside Park and Rose Garden or fall in love with Promenade Park, a new destination for recreation, arts and culture in the Midwest. Located on Fort Wayne’s Riverfront, the park offers attractions like the kids’ canal and tree-top canopy trail, or you can take to the water on a kayak or riverboat cruise. Fun awaits every corner.
via Visit Fort Wayne
Trek, pedal, paddle, and discover wildlife in Fort Wayne’s trails. Recognized as a National Recreation Trail, the Rivergreenway Trail is a 30-mile linear park that presents tons of beautiful views of Fort Wayne’s three rivers: Maumee, St. Marys, and St. Joseph. The Wabash and Erie Canal Towpath Trail is another captivating route that leads to Eagle Marsh, a 716-acre wetland preserve where you can spot bald eagles, herons, waterfowl, and frogs. Explore more about the city’s scenic trails, here.
via Visit Fort Wayne
Want to experience Fort Wayne from the rivers? You can rent a kayak or canoe at Fort Wayne Outfitters and Bike Depot to explore Indiana’s waterways and countryside. As you paddle through residential, urban, agricultural and forested lands, you will gain unique perspectives on life in northeast Indiana from the water.
Spectacular Exhibits
via Visit Fort Wayne
The town’s exhibits capture the lively spirit of summer. One of the must-sees this year is the Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory’s “Raise a Glass,” a spectacular blown-glass exhibit which presents light, art, and nature. Presented in celebration of the Botanical Conservatory’s 40th anniversary, the display will be available through November 17.
via Visit Fort Wayne
Looking for an engaging exhibit for kids? Science Central offers hands-on exhibits and national touring exhibitions. The theme for the summer season is Superheroes and Villains.
Delightful Summer Food and Drinks
via Visit Fort Wayne
No summer adventure is capped without a culinary adventure – and Fort Wayne offers a delightful range of food and drinks.
Perched atop The Bradley, Birdie’s is a charming and whimsical rooftop bar and restaurant offering a stunning view of downtown. Savor tasty bites such as the Huli Huli chicken and kalua pork sliders. At night, cozy up by the firepit while sipping refreshing cocktails such as The Phoenix (Doctor Bird rum, allspice dram and luxardo cherry) and the Murder of Crows (vodka, orange bitters, blood orange, and egg white).
via Mad Anthony Brewing
Explore Fort Wayne’s craft beer scene which features unique summer brews. Sample seasonal beers such as light lagers, fruity ales and citrusy IPAs from the Mad Anthony Brewing Company and Junk Ditch Brewing Company.
via Two EE’s Winery
Located just ten minutes west of Fort Wayne, Two-EE’s Winery boasts of premium wines from uncommon grape varieties, with a distinctive Midwestern twist. Recognized as Indiana’s Best Winery Experience (2016) and America’s Best Tasting Room (2017), Two-EE’s has made a mark as a beloved winery in the country.
via Shigs in Pit
Summer and award-winning BBQ goes hand-in-hand, don’t you think? Head to Shigs In Pit and indulge in their mouth-watering meats such as tender ribs, smokey pulled pork—all served with classic sides. Not to mention, they have outdoor seating for the perfect summer meal.
via Zesto Ice Cream St. Joe
Of course, no summer is complete without ice cream – and Zesto serves up irresistible sundaes, classic cones, shakes, and indulgent treats such as banana split.
Planning to bring your furry friend? There are tons of restaurants offering dog-friendly patios where you and your pup can have the best time.
Simply, Fort Wayne has something for everyone. It blooms extraordinarily this season, offering opportunities for creating incomparable summer memories. At The RFG, we never really stop falling in love with this city – there’s always something new to discover and explore. But don’t take our word for it—come and experience the magic of Fort Wayne for yourself.
