Updated March 2017
Lights! Cameras! Graduations! Fort Wayne is home to many commencement events that take place every spring with so many education options around the city. If you'll be in town for your friends or family's graduation, there is a lot to consider in preparation!
Many of the commencements will take place at Fort Wayne's prime event location--the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum.
You'll probably want to figure out where you'll be staying. If you need to find a good hotel, try the Holiday Inn.
It's just across the street from the Coliseum and it has a restaurant, plenty of parking - and an indoor pool for the kids. A little more of a drive away but still in close proximity are the Hyatt Place, Don Hall's Guesthouse, and Ramada Plaza Fort Wayne. But there are plenty of other places to stay in Fort Wayne, so check out the list of hotel options (and be sure to check for special deals!).
What if you're hungry? If you're looking for something located conveniently to the Coliseum, Bob Evans, Chipotle, Panera, IHOP, Five Guys Burgers and Fries, and Casa Ristorantee are all within a short driving distance. Just turn your car out onto Coliseum Boulevard, turn west, and watch the left hand side of the road. If you drive a little further, you'll see Chili's Grill and Bar across the street from Glenbrook Square Mall, followed by Olive Garden, Cheddar's, Quaker Steak & Lube, and more!
But don't limit yourself to the area surrounding the Coliseum - venture the rest of what Fort Wayne has to offer as well! Head south for great hotel and eatery options including the Courtyard and the Hilton and Fort Wayne food favorites such as Coney Island, JK O'Donnell's, 816 Pint & Slice, the Dash-Inn, Club Soda and more! There's a place for every taste bud here.
If none of these meet your needs, feel free to check out the full list of hotel options and dining options in Fort Wayne!
Let's say that you're fine on the food and lodging front - but the kids are getting restless. Don't panic! There is a great playground in the Johnny Appleseed Campground, (1500 E. Coliseum Blvd.) right across the parking lot from the Coliseum. Because the parking lot is rather large, you might want to just drive to the park - head for the easternmost exit of the Coliseum, then turn on the little side road just before you hit the bridge over the St. Joe River. The playground is on the river side of the park, down a steep bank (handicap accessible ramps are also there - look for wooden railings). The playground features slide, swings and plenty of safe, rubbery matting so that kids can't get hurt. There are more than 80 parks located around the city, be sure to check them out if you've got time!
Graduation is a great event in any student's life. While it can be a very busy time for some folks, getting to know the restaurants, attractions, and hotels that are close to the graduation venue can be a great way to make your stay more relaxing
