This Underrated Riverfront City In The Midwest Offers Fun, Family-Friendly Activities

For a family-friendly adventure in the Midwest, travelers often put St. Louis or the cool city of Branson, Missouri on their list. However, if you're seeking a destination that has it all, don't overlook Fort Wayne, Indiana, the Hoosier State's second-largest city with family-friendly attractions and beautiful scenery to boot. Located at the confluence of three rivers in Northeastern Indiana, Fort Wayne has a storied past and a renowned zoo that attracts visitors from across the country.

Fort Wayne was once known as an industrial powerhouse, but has since diversified its economy — its growing strengths include a robust healthcare system and thriving tourism sector. Back in the 1920s, the majestic Emboyd Theater opened in Fort Wayne, and it remains a fixture of the city to this day. It is also home to the Lincoln Tower, Indiana's first skyscraper. Families can catch a show at the beautifully-restored theater and enjoy a snack at the tower's historic soda fountain. Families can also explore their roots at Fort Wayne's Genaeology Center, one of the best places in the U.S. to research family history.

While Fort Wayne has an international airport, flights are largely limited to major cities across the Midwest and East Coast. It's a few hours' drive from cities like Chicago, Detroit, Columbus, and Indianapolis, making it a great spot for a road trip in the Upper Midwest. A rental car will also come in handy, as the city's major attractions are pretty spread out.

Whether you're visiting for a weekend or longer, you'll find plenty of fun, educational attractions that will keep curious minds entertained. Budding scientists won't want to miss Science Central, Fort Wayne's hands-on science museum. Animal lovers of all ages will appreciate the nationally-acclaimed Fort Wayne Zoo. Within the 40-acre animal park, visitors can feed giraffes, spot endangered red pandas, and snap photos of kangaroos. Admission to seven of the city's top attractions is included in the Fort Wayne Adventure Pass, which is set to make a comeback soon.

Much like the friendly small towns in Illinois, Fort Wayne has deep Midwestern roots and an inviting, family-oriented atmosphere. For an all-American summer afternoon, cheer on the city's Minor League Baseball team, the Fort Wayne TinCaps, named after local legend Johnny Appleseed. The high-A affiliate team of the San Diego Padres plays home games at Parkview Field, rated the best Minor League ballpark in the U.S. by Stadium Journey magazine. The stadium has a spectacular view of downtown from behind home plate. Like many other attractions in the city, baseball games are affordable, with online ticket prices starting at $9 USD, at the time of writing. Be sure to check the schedule for special themed games and fireworks. 

Whether you visit in the summer or fall, be sure to stroll or cycle along the the banks of the St. Mary's River. The city's Rivergreenway boasts 25 miles of trails along three riverfronts, and serves as a gateway to historic neighborhoods and surrounding nature. Before you head out, download the free Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass, which you can use to navigate the area and earn points to redeem prizes at each destination. If you'd rather spend a day on the water, Promenade Park is a prime spot for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing, with ice cream shops just a short walk away. 

When you're ready to refuel, you'll find a wide variety of cuisines in Fort Wayne, including Italian, Asian, Mexican, and classic American fare. For an iconic taste of the city, visit the oldest hot dog stand in America, Fort Wayne's Famous Coney Island Weiner Stand. Indulge in a sizzling Fort Wayne-style hot dog topped with chili sauce and onion, a local staple for over a century. Adventurous eaters will love the Thai dishes at Bangkok Bistro, kebabs at Deema Turkish Cuisine, and griot with plantain at Benji's Caribbean Spot. You'll also find a range of local family-friendly bars and breweries, including award-winning Mad Anthony Brewing Company.

Fort Wayne offers a variety of accommodations to suit any budget. Across the city, you'll find over five-dozen hotels, including major chains with pet-friendly policies and swimming pools for the kids. If you plan to explore other highlights in the region, head to nearby Fairmount, Indiana, a charming retro American town that feels stuck in time.