Whether you are a college student or young adult in Fort Wayne, this blog is for you! I have lived in Fort Wayne, Indiana all my life and have enjoyed watching the city expand with new parks, boutiques, and restaurants. Every time I return home from college, I love to spend time experiencing the newest additions to the Fort. 

Gather your friends or show off your city to visiting guests with these adventure suggestions within Fort Wayne. Most importantly, these ideas are affordable and accessible.

Young Adult's Guide to Fort Wayne, Indiana

Shopping at the flower truck at the downtown Fort Wayne farmers market

Farmers Markets

Start your weekends at the farmers markets around town. Check out the YLNI Farmers Market and Fort Wayne's Farmers Market on Saturday mornings. See a full list of farmers markets in the Fort Wayne area here. While the two large downtown markets are on Saturdays, you can find farmers markets throughout the week at different locations around the city. This is a fun way to engage in the community and support local businesses. While there, you can purchase goods from dozens of vendors selling produce, flowers, coffee, and much more.

 

Kayaking the St Marys River in Allen County

Parks & Recreation

A great way to show the beauty of the city is by visiting the parks. If you are already in the downtown area, head over to Promenade Park, Fort Wayne’s riverfront attraction that continues to grow. Rent kayaks from Fort Wayne Outfitters and spend the day sightseeing from the river. Enjoy a picnic at other downtown parks, such as Headwaters Park.

Take a tour outside of the city and enjoy more than 140 miles of trails throughout Allen County. Walk and bike along the rivers on the Rivergreenway or take in the breathtaking views at Eagle Marsh as you venture further away from the city. See a list of mapped out trails that highlight Fort Wayne's top attractions along the way. You can also earn prizes when you check in at parks and trails with the Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass. With so many options there is something for everyone to enjoy!

 

Group of college age friends enjoying Pad Thai outside Nawa restaurant in Fort Wayne.

Food & Brews 

Calling all who are 21 and older! Fort Wayne is home to many local breweries that take time to perfect their craft beers. Grab a group of friends and head outside for drinks at the picnic tables at Junk Ditch Brewing Company. A few other local favorites include Hoppy GnomeHop River Brewing Company, and Mad Anthony Brewing Company.

Dine in downtown Fort Wayne on The Landing at Asian-inspired Nawa, Cali-Mex favorite Mercado, upscale urban Marquee, chill and irreverent Papi's Pizza, neighborhood tavern-inspired Dana's, and late-night hangout Night Train. There are many other restaurants with outdoor seating options downtown, such as JK O'Donnell's Irish Pub. Maybe you're looking to dress up for an evening or enjoy a date night on the town. Try Club SodaRuth’s Chris Steak House, or Proximo! End the night with chocolatey sweets at the famous DeBrand Fine Chocolate, with two locations in Fort Wayne. 

Don't forget the coffee! Every good adventure starts with coffee, and you can support local coffee shops all over town. Visit Mocha Lounge in both North and Southwest Fort Wayne. If you are downtown, stop into Fortezza, Conjure Coffee (on Columbia Ave and in the Botanical Conservatory), Utopian Coffee on The Landing, and much more.

 

Breathe Mural

Downtown

Spend the day experiencing downtown Fort Wayne like a local. Whether it’s summer or winter, step inside and take in the current exhibit at the Botanical Conservatory. Shop the endless clothes, home goods, and antiques Fort Wayne's downtown boutiques have to offer. 

Take yourself on a self-guided tour of the beautiful murals that line the walls and alleyways in Fort Wayne. They are perfect for photos and memories that will last a lifetime. Another great place to capture a photo of the city skyline is along the Tree Canopy Trail at Promenade Park. While at the park, grab a snowcone at Teds Snack and Bar and listen to live music.

Looking for more art? Visit the downtown Arts Campus on Main Street and see the current exhibit in the Fort Wayne Museum of Art.

 

Tincaps - Parkview field - evening

Sports

Fort Wayne loves its sports teams and is home to many professional leagues. In the wintertime, experience the Komets hockey team live in action at the Memorial Coliseum.

During a typical summer, a Fort Wayne Tincaps baseball game in the heart of downtown is a can't-miss experience — and tickets start at just $7. Parkview Field is within walking distance from top attractions and has accessible, convenient parking. Plus, if you're over 21, I highly recommend enjoying a game on Thirsty Thursday, or heading to Conner's Rooftop Bar overlooking the ballpark.

And of course, support the many local college sports teams that call Fort Wayne home!

There's so much fun for young adults in Fort Wayne! Bring your friends and take in all our city has to offer.

This blog was originally published in August 2020 and has been updated. Last Updated: April 2024