One of my favorite things about Fort Wayne, Indiana is the great strides toward the inclusion of individuals with disabilities. This will continue even stronger with the new City-County Disability Advisory Council advocating for improvements in accessibility. No matter what you are looking for when visiting Fort Wayne, you are sure to find a place that is disability inclusive.
If you’re staying overnight, I would recommend staying downtown. The wide sidewalks make getting around by foot or chair easy, especially on a beautiful day. The downtown hotels are central to many amenities and everything else is just a short drive away.
Make sure you take advantage of our many trails as they are accessible as well.
Accessible Activities in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Promenade Park
The long-anticipated Promenade Park is finally open! From amazing new facilities to new ways to enjoy Fort Wayne's three rivers, Promenade Park is set to become your favorite new Fort Wayne attraction. Plus, Promenade Park is one of Fort Wayne's most disability-inclusive parks with wheelchair friendly trails, smooth transitions from sidewalk to grass, sensory experiences, and an accessible playground. Learn more about how Promenade Park is a park for everyone here.
TinCaps Baseball Game
Going to a Fort Wayne TinCaps game is a summer favorite for residents and visitors alike.
For seven years, AWS Foundation has collaborated with the TinCaps to host local disability service providers at a day game. Over 1,000 individuals with disabilities, families, and caregivers come together on one day for the joy of baseball.
Because of this yearly event, staff at the award-winning Parkview Field understand the needs of various types of disabilities and how to accommodate.
With ample space for wheelchairs and a knowledgeable staff, you can’t go wrong with a TinCaps Baseball game.
Taylor’s Dream
Indiana’s first Boundless Playground, Taylor’s Dream, is nestled in Kreager Park. You will love this beautiful playground accessible to all. Surfaces are made for easy wheelchair use. Don’t forget to bring a change of clothes because the splash pad will be hard to resist!
Note: The next two attractions may require medical information from your doctor to participate. Consult the organization before visiting, but trust me, it will be worth the effort.
Turnstone
I can’t talk about disability-friendly attractions in Fort Wayne without mentioning Turnstone. Their state of the art Plassman Center boasts adaptive exercise equipment and a warm-water pool with accommodations for users of all abilities.
Even if you don’t want to use their facility, call and ask for a tour. You can also check out their events calendar to maybe catch an adaptive sports tournament.
Camp Red Cedar
No, I’m not suggesting a week at camp (though if your child is interested, definitely check it out). In addition to the camps, Camp Red Cedar offers individual horseback riding sessions that can accommodate all abilities.
Horseback riding can be therapeutic for people with disabilities, plus it is so much fun! All skill levels are welcome and you can sign up for one or multiple private sessions.
These are just a few examples of what Fort Wayne, Indiana has to offer for people of all abilities. Don’t be afraid to try something new on your next visit to Fort Wayne, Indiana, you may find a new passion.
