Spring has sprung, and so have airline prices. If you’re among the many on a budget this spring break, don’t fret! Staying in town doesn’t mean you have to skip out on any of the fun. Downtown Fort Wayne’s 99 blocks are the perfect destination for a staycation that’s worthy of the memory books.
Here’s DTFW’s 2025 Spring Break Guide:
FOR THE FAMILY
Looking for activities to do with the little ones? From museums to parks, Downtown is full of experiences for families. There’s so much to explore:
Check out a museum or exhibit!
The Fort Wayne Museum of Art (FWMoA) is a must-see for anyone looking to stimulate the imagination (that goes for both kids and adults). Bonus: Thursdays from 5-8pm, there’s free general admission. If you can’t make it on a Thursday, they also offer student and EBT discounts.
Science Central is a stellar option for science enthusiasts—and it’s right outside DTFW’s 99 blocks! Science Central has over 200 permanent exhibits and one temporary, rotating exhibition that changes throughout the year (currently focused on the Hubble and Webb telescopes). Group discounts are available for 15 or more visitors, and children two and under get in for free! Save money by purchasing your tickets in advance online.
The History Center is an excellent spot for families looking to connect deeper to the city’s history—with unique artifacts that span from a mastodon’s molar to the Old City Jail that’s still intact in the building’s basement. Kids get a discount, and children two or younger get in free.
The Fort Wayne Firefighters’ Museum is a fun visit for any history buffs or future firefighters in your family. Check out their collection of uniforms, fire gear, and tools used throughout the years. Kids get a discount, and children two or younger get in free.
The Rolland Center at Allen County Public Library’s Main Branch is a spectacular look at the life of President Abraham Lincoln. The Center’s collections contains more than 30,000 records, including photos and albums, personal stories, and published works.
Prioritize play!
Spring weather in Indiana can be unpredictable, but the climate inside the Botanical Conservatory is not! If your kiddos are pining for some outdoor reaction, but the outside temperature isn’t cooperating, stop by the conservatory for your nature rush. Bonus: The conservatory is hosting a Floor Is Lava exhibit—inspired by everyone’s favorite childhood game. So the kiddos can get out some energy while they’re there (you’re welcome).
Headwaters Park and Promenade Park are two must-visit parks nestled around the Saint Mary’s River—perfect for a nature walk along the city’s most striking natural resources! But that’s not all! Between both parks, you’ll find outdoor recreation, playgrounds, public art, amphitheaters, and pavilions.
Immerse yourself and your family in a game at the Fort Wayne Escape Room. Each game is welcome to all ages, but some of the games’ themes may be better suited for older children. You can read more about the Escape Room’s themes or contact the owner for questions here.
Indulge in a sweet treat!
Ice cream is the perfect treat during any spring break. Check out these spots for ice cream and other treats to satiate the fam’s sweet tooth:
- Burger Bar: burger joint offering hand-spun milkshakes and soft-serve ice cream
- Insomnia Cookie: late-night bakery specializing in warm, gooey cookies
- Kanela: health-conscious cafe and coffeeshop with fresh, made-to-order smoothies and juices
- Kilwins: sweet shop with housemade fudge, caramels, chocolates, and other treats
- Lincoln Tower Soda Fountain: old-fashioned soda shop with hand-mixed sodas, floats, and shakes
- Poptique: gourmet popcorn shop with unique sweet and savory flavors
- Sweets on Main: ice cream parlor with hand-scooped ice cream, sundaes, and Tiny Little Donuts.
FOR THE ADULTS
A stay at The Bradley (Fort Wayne’s first boutique hotel) is the perfect treatment for anyone looking for a little luxury or a night away from home. The Bradley’s stylish rooms, commons, and restaurants (Arbor and Birdie’s) are the product of Vera Bradley founder Barbara Bradley Baekgaard, so you know they’re full of color and glamour.
Whether you’re staying the night at The Bradley or not, a night out at Downtown’s craft cocktail bars is the perfect way to celebrate the start of spring. Both Copper Spoon and Penny Drip boast award-winning bar programs, The Landing is home to several walkable (and Instagram-worthy) drinking destinations, and Club Soda is a martini bar with the second-most privately selected bourbon barrels for an independent restaurant in Indiana.
Nothing says vacay more than starting your day off with brunch! Whether you’re in the mood for a Sunday-morning staple or something more adventurous, there are plenty of must-visit brunch destinations in Downtown Fort Wayne—sure to please every palate. Check out our brunch guide here!
Dinner-and-a-movie date night, anyone? In addition to Downtown’s top-notch cocktail scene, there are plenty of fine dining options, from The Pearl’s new Amoré to the nationally esteemed Ruth’s Chris Steak House. There are so many quality dining destinations in the 99 blocks that we can’t name them all. Here’s a look at all of Downtown’s dining scene. Once you’re done with dinner, check out a movie at Cinema Center—Fort Wayne’s only independent, arthouse theater.
Shop ‘til you drop at Downtown Fort Wayne’s unique and boutique retail destinations. Check out our guide to shopping local in DTFW!
FOR EVERYONE
Take yourself out to the ball game! The Fort Wayne TinCaps kick off their 2025 season on April 4th. Opening night is always a bash for families and friends alike. Don’t miss out on tickets!
Channel your inner artist! We’ve already highlighted the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, but there are so many more art-centric activities for those looking to get in touch with their creative side:
- Artlink Gallery: contemporary gallery with art classes and exhibitions
- Krull Gallery at the Allen County Public Library: free rotating art exhibition inside the library
- The Public Art Trail: a self-guided public art trail featuring many of Art This Way’s murals and installations
- The Studio: a creator space inside the Main Branch of the library, equipped with 3D printers, a podcast studio, sewing machines and more. Check out our blog to read more about it!
Looking for other staycation tips? Pay Visit Fort Wayne an in-person visit! Their friendly staff is happy to answer any questions you have about the Downtown community and beyond. Bonus: you can snag some stylish souvenirs while you’re inside the gift shop—perfect for donning your Fort Wayne pride.
Molly Conner is a Fort Wayne native and freelance writer. Having lived in Downtown Fort Wayne throughout her twenties, she loves watching her stomping grounds grow. With her love of storytelling and community in tow, she’s eager to tell Downtown Fort Wayne’s story piece-by-piece—exploring the people, spaces, and organizations that make it thrive.