Will you be doing some shopping this year in the Fort Wayne, Indiana area? Why not pick up some gifts that are made right here, in (or near) the Summit City? You never know what you will find!
The Best Gifts in Fort Wayne, Indiana
Cookie Cottage
Let’s start with the ready-to-eat gifts that can be an instant hit. If you’re in the mood for cookies, check out the Cookie Cottage – their specialty is in the name: cookies. From sugar to peanut butter and some exotic flavors, you are certain to find the perfect treat for the occasion. Frosted favorites include iced sugar, double chocolate raspberry cream, and chocolate mint chip. Traditionalists can choose from chocolate chip, oatmeal chocolate chip, macadamia white chocolate, and dozens of others. Insider Tip: Try picking out your favorite cookies on the off-hours. Saturdays can be very busy.
Poptique Gourmet Popcorn
If cookies are off the list, then how about popcorn? Poptique Gourmet Popcorn is made right here in Fort Wayne and is sold at shops located both downtown and at Jefferson Pointe. Flavors are as eclectic as the seasons: they range from simple buttered popcorn to pumpkin spice and barbecued chicken wing flavor. Popcorn is made fresh and is packaged without artificial preservatives, so you know you’re giving a healthy gift.
Sechler's Pickles
What about pickles? Sechler’s Pickles, of St. Joe, Indiana, produces spicy, sweet, and good old-fashioned dill pickles that are sure to tickle the taste buds of any pickle aficionado. There are 54 different varieties of pickles, relishes, and salsas from which to choose, and they also have gift packs.
Old Fort Soap Company
Think you’re limited to getting bath products from a big-name store? Think again. Here in Fort Wayne, we have a variety of makers, like Old Fort Soap Company. Some of these products, such as the soap bars can be found in a variety of stores, including the Health Food Shoppe, Wild Birds Unlimited, or at special events at the Old Fort.
cinda B
What about handbags? Check out cinda B, a relative newcomer to the Fort Wayne scene. These bags and carryalls are designed by Cindy Boomershine, who spent eight years on the road as part of the Movie and a Makeover team. She realized that she wanted soft-sided luggage that was tough enough for the road, so she started cinda B, and opened up shop in Fort Wayne. Each cinda B tote is made of poly/nylon fabrics that are stain and water-resistant, and machine washable.
Peg Perego
Don’t forget about Peg Perego, a manufacturer of motorized four-wheelers for the smaller set – and baby equipment, like strollers, and kids' bicycle seats. Did you ever want a kid-sized tractor that could really scoop and dump? Then this is the place to go. Don’t forget, Peg Perego’s also has a great line of baby products including strollers, baby carriers, and more. Stop in at their Independence Drive store to try out their products.
Fort Wayne's Black-Owned Retail
Fort Wayne is home to dozens of retail businesses owned by black artists and entrepreneurs. Explore these unique shopping destinations and discover a treasure at one of our Black-owned retail establishments.
DeBrand Fine Chocolates
Any Fort Wayne sweet tooth will tell you that DeBrand is a must on any chocolate-lovers list. Whether you dine-in for a specialty sundae or scrumptious hot chocolate, or order some of their chocolates online, DeBrand is the right choice for anyone on your "nice" list.
Fort Wayne's Boutiques
Looking for that "special something?" Look no further than one of Fort Wayne's unique boutiques, offering locally made gifts and treasures from around the globe. The perfect time to shop these stores is during downtown's Holly Shopping days, every Saturday between Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Artlink Market: Winter Edition
While not a physical store, Artlink, a local creative arts center and gallery, will host a curated marketplace featuring the best in contemporary craft and handmade goods from local artists. This year the market has extended their hours and will be available the first three Saturdays in December!
Fort Wayne Visitors Center
The best Fort Wayne items can be found at the Fort Wayne Visitors Center, located downtown at 927 S. Harrison and online! Celebrate your city in style with apparel, drinkware, art, and more!
Additional Fort Wayne Favorite Gifts
This post was originally written in December 2018 but was updated November 2021.
