Downtown Fort Wayne has transformed dramatically over the last two decades—from the creation of a state-of-the-art baseball stadium to an expanding riverfront district to all the new mixed-use spaces, like The Pearl and The Landing. That investment is paying off. Head Downtown any day of the week and you'll find a level of energy that would have been hard to imagine prior to its redevelopment.

And with all the new bustle and happenings, it’s easy to see why many businesses are opening or relocating to the heart of our city. We talked to a few businesses that have either recently opened up shop Downtown—or are getting ready to.

Here's what they had to say about their decision to move Downtown:
1905 Parlor Salon & Suites: 

“I chose Downtown Fort Wayne because I’ve always loved the vibe and feel of Downtown. I wanted my salon to have its own unique personality and create a beautiful, welcoming, boutique experience for my clients. The historic character and unique layout of the space were absolutely perfect for the vision I had for 1905 Parlor. It just felt like the right place to bring my vision to life.” - Mindy Gayheart

Beeze Links: 

“I chose Downtown Fort Wayne because I love the idea of Beeze Links being more than just jewelry. I want it to be an experience where people can create meaningful moments and long lasting memories with the ones they love. I also love that being Downtown gives my clients the chance to walk around, explore Fort Wayne’s culture, and support other local businesses while they’re here. Being part of that community and creating memories that last beyond the jewelry is what makes Downtown Fort Wayne feel like the perfect home for Beeze Links.” - Maxine King

Bridgeport (coming soon): 

“I did not choose Downtown Fort Wayne. Downtown Fort Wayne chose me. A door opened up and I was prepared for the opportunity so I walked in.” - Chef Marcus Daniel

Catalyst Fitness:

"Downtown Fort Wayne is the heart of our city, and we wanted Catalyst Fitness to be part of that. After more than 20 years serving Fort Wayne, reopening in the Anthony Wayne Building let us bring accessible, high-quality fitness to the people who live, work, and stay Downtown. We believe a thriving downtown needs a strong, welcoming gym at its center, and we're proud to be part of that momentum." - Jason Minich

Niyyah Coffee (coming soon): 

“Downtown Fort Wayne chose us before we chose it, in a way. A good friend of mine going through med school challenged me to actually consider bringing a coffee concept here, and once I did, this location just made sense for Niyyah Coffee. Downtown Fort Wayne has this energy of people out, connecting, building something—which is exactly the idea behind our name and our slogan, ‘where coffee meets intention.’ We wanted a space that brings the community together over something made with real care, and this neighborhood felt like the right place to do that.” - Nate Hunt

The Sparrow Café (coming soon):

“The Sparrow Café belongs in Downtown Fort Wayne for a few reasons: first, because this is the hub of our community.  Within a relatively few blocks, you have professionals, arts organizations, the seat of local government, cultural attractions, faith communities, and neighbors of all backgrounds. With so much energy concentrated in Downtown, we thought it only fitting to create a space that welcomes everyone.” - Makayla Tedder

The historic charm. The walkability. The energy. It's no wonder these businesses—and so many others—are calling Downtown home. So next time you're planning a coffee run, a workout, or a night out, consider making it a Downtown stop. You might discover your new favorite spot.