9 Fun Things to do in Fort Wayne with Kids!

History, attractions, sports, art, nature–Fort Wayne, Indiana’s second largest city has it all! We had the opportunity to tour Fort Wayne, Indiana as a part of a familiarization trip with Visit Fort Wayne. As always all opinions are my own.

Traveling with a family of seven we look for a variety of venues that educate and entertain. We also try to get out in nature for some adventure and exercise.  You won’t want to miss these 9 Fun Things to do in Fort Wayne with Kids:

1. Science Central

The best way for kids to learn is while having loads of fun and that is exactly the vibe at Science Central. All of my kids, even my teenagers, had a blast trying things out and seeing how things work, but my boys had the time of their life. This was their favorite time in Fort Wayne. They did not want to leave.

We were fascinated by the lab where we learned about making electricity! The kids got to test light bulbs themselves.

There is so much to do at Science Central. Ride a bike high over all the activities. See how a how hot air balloon works. Speed down a two story slide. Optical illusions, puzzles, and so much science will keep your children entertained as their minds are engaged and learning.

2. Fort Wayne Museum of Art

Whether you’re an artist or just like to gaze at contemporary and historical art, step into Fort Wayne Museum of Art! Personally, I don’t know much about nor do I understand what many people call art, but I loved seeing the unique and interesting pieces that others create. I gazed at  collections and wonder how people come up with their ideas.

3. Tin Caps Game

Take them out to the ball game! It had been too long since we all made it to a baseball game. We had a ball! 😉

There were so many family friendly activities. The kids were thrilled when they were given baseball cards to collect. On the night we went it was Star Wars night, with lots of character appearances and  themed fun throughout the night including at the 7th inning stretch.

We closed out the night with fireworks! It was incredible! My kids literally watched with their mouths hanging open. We’ve never been so close to where fireworks are being set off. It was loud, rapid, and spectacular–super fun experience! Check the schedule at Tin Caps for family events and fireworks information.

4. Fort Wayne Outfitters

Seven of us touring Fort Wayne on bikes sounded like so much fun! I was a little nervous about going out with everyone, but my husband assured me it would be fine. The last time I was on a bike I…crashed, so I was a little nervous, but the good folks at Fort Wayne Outfitters were great and had us all ready with bikes and safety gear.

Off we went…or not! Bobby had forgotten how to ride a bike and kept trying to back peddle. We spent about 30 minutes going around in a parking lot until he got the hang of it. Things were quite tense at first…you can imagine…but once we all got on the trails it was a blast. Everyone had so much fun and this little guy is dying to go again.

Fort Wayne is a gorgeous place to bike. The trails are so scenic, and it’s easy to bike to downtown to see the sights or get a bite to eat. You can also rent canoes and tour the city via the river!

5. Downtown

We didn’t end up going as far as we had hoped with our crew of very inexperienced bikers, but we did go back and drive to see downtown! 🙂 Shopping, historical buildings, attractions, and great food can all be found in the heart of the city.

I love finding cities that still have a town square!

The Freimann Square in Downtown Fort Wayne is lovely. The statue of General Anthony Wayne graces the square surrounded by beautiful flowers, trees, fountains and walking paths. We always like to make sure the kids get these bits of history as we go.

6. The Old Fort

Watch history come alive in this recreation of Fort Wayne’s Old Fort. Learn how things used to be done. The Old Fort is a public park and is free.

Check the website at Old Fort for events like this one. During events you can go inside the buildings and learn about different eras.  Knowledgeable demonstrators teach and answer questions, such a fun way to spend the day.

My crew were especially interested in the games that kids used to play. Life without technology. They can’t imagine!

7. Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

Don’t mistake the word “children” in the name to mean small. This is no little petting zoo. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is northeast Indiana’s largest tourist attraction. We found that out when we arrived and found the huge lines of people. Arrive early!

There are so many amazing animal encounters, but at the top of our list were these gorgeous peacocks and peahens roaming around free. We had never been so close to one before, and they just showed off for us.

The animal that wowed us was this Tasmanian Devil. I had never seen one before. Did you know that they are in danger of becoming extinct? We had a fabulous time meeting so many of God’s wild creatures at the zoo!

8. Fort Wayne Botanical Conservatory

With three indoor gardens that are over 25,000 square feet and display 1,200 plants (over 500 species) and 72 different types of cacti, there is so much to see at Fort Wayne Botanical Conservatory. We feasted our eyes on all the gorgeous and varied plant life. There are fun areas for the kids to roam and play as well.

Our favorite experience was the Live Butterfly exhibit. It was amazing to see so many colorful butterflies up close. We had to be very careful not to hurt any of them as we walked. The kids were in awe of them!

We were also able to witness metamorphosis taking place as butterflies were emerging from cocoons. It was fascinating!

9. Johnny Appleseed Gravesite

Who didn’t read about Johnny Appleseed as a child? But did you know he was a real person named John Chapman? Johnny was a man loved by people and nature. He was a Christian who spread the Good News as much as he planted orchards and was known for greeting people with, “I have news from heaven!”

The Gravesite was not the easiest to find. GPS led us to Johnny Appleseed Park and driving around we were able to finally spot it on the top of a little hill.

Johnny Appleseed’s grave stone says, “He lived for others.” What a testimony! We left inspired. It is well worth the little adventure to drive over and find this roadside attraction.

What a great family adventures in Fort Wayne, Indiana! For more ideas on how to spend your time in the area click over to>>>> Visit Fort Wayne!