YLNI Farmers Market
The perfect picnic wouldn’t be complete without some fresh fruits and veggies, local cheese and baked goods, and maybe even a few sweet treats. I couldn’t imagine a better place to stop to pick up some of your picnic essentials than the farmers market.
Enjoy some live entertainment and food and crafts from area vendors before taking off with your meal al fresco. This weekly event, held Saturdays at North East Corner of Barr and Wayne Streets from 9am-1pm, is sure to make you want to pack your picnic basket to the brim with all kinds of yummy produce and cuisine.
Food Trucks
Fort Wayne has a huge variety of food trucks that you can catch around town that make dining outside fun and unique! Grab some one of a kind food to go at one of the Forts locally owned, mobile operations. Get more information on the Fort Wayne Food Trucks Page.
Whether you want to spread your picnic blanket in the forest at Fox Island County Park, or take your food to the picnic area at Promenade Park to explore downtown, Fort Wayne has plenty of locations for you to take your afternoon feast.
Shigs n Pit
The most quintessential picnic dish? Barbeque. That’s why Fort Wayne staple, Shigs n Pit is a must have if you want a homemade meal without all of the work of cooking. Shigs n Pit is also carry out friendly. This sweet and savory spot will set you up with loads of sandwiches, mac and cheese, potatoes, and beans to go so you can chow down wherever you please.
Shigs in Pit sandwich by @PrettyPlainJanes on Instagram
The Gas House
Nestled right on the riverfront, The Gas House offers many great carry out options to take with you on your outdoor expedition. From big salads to steak and seafood, everyone is bound to find something they will like at the Gas House. Why not enjoy a canal boat ride, or see a demonstration at the Historic Old Fort while you’re nearby!
The Gas House by @downtownfortwayne on Instagram
Coney Island
Grab a classic Coney Island hot dog at Fort Wayne's oldest operating restaurant, a magical blend of memories, family traditions, and the one-of-a-kind Coney dog! The fun, warm atmosphere has been bringing over 100 years' worth of smiles to 'Coney Island Kids' of all ages.
131 W. Main Street Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Davey's Bagels
Take your pick from an array of classic bagels to unique, inventive concoctions that are perfect for any meal. With fresh, warm bagels and a variety of spreads, toppings, and fillings, you can customize your picnic experience to make it extra special. From sweet to savory, simple to bold, every bite is a treat that’ll make your picnic unforgettable!
1006 Broadway Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Pizza
If pizza is more your style, grab a slice at 816 Pint & Slice or whole pizzas at Papi's Pizza, both conveniently located in downtown Fort Wayne.
816 Pint & Slice - 816 Calhoun St. Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Papi's Pizza - 111 W. Columbia St. Suite 102 Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Antonuccio's Italian Market
If you're heading south to Foster Park, make sure to stop by Antonuccio's Italian Market to pick up meats, cheeses, charcuterie, fruits, vegetables, and everything else you might need for your picnic!
Lunch at Freimann Square by @artsunitedgfw on Instagram
This post was originally published in 2017 and has been updated.
