After a long and cold winter, there’s nothing better than getting the kids outside to explore! And Fort Wayne, Indiana has plenty of activities to keep junior biologists busy. Read on to learn about some of the opportunities that are ready for your kids to explore outdoors in Fort Wayne, Indiana this spring.

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Fort Wayne, Indiana

Hands-On Exploration for the Young

Guided Hikes at Lindenwood Nature Preserve

At Lindenwood Nature Preserve, join the guided hikes and educational walks! You'll learn about local ecology, from plants to wildlife, and broader biology topics as you trek through the preserve. During some events, kids can even enjoy fun crafts! All are welcome - as the staff often offer guided hikes in Spanish as well. Learn more.

Storytime at the Zoo

The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo, with 40 acres of award-winning animal experiences, is an easy choice for educational outdoor fun for kids. With special programming throughout the season, including storytime for young visitors and Keeper Chats at different animal exhibits, kids will be engaged and learn even more about their favorite zoo animals. During storytime, expect an animal-themed story, some singing, and maybe even a visit from one of the ambassador animals from the zoo. Storytime is designed for those 5 and under and is free with regular zoo admission.

LC Nature Park

Visit LC Nature Park to explore the beauty of nature and see the bison and elk as they roam. Schedule a private tour (2-25 people, $10/person), register for a monthly public hike ($10/person), or join in one of their other children's events to awaken curiosity and instill a love of nature in the hearts of young explorers. Find LC Nature Park events.

Riverfront Adventures

Outdoor, educational programming returns to Promenade Park each spring, and ramps up even more toward the summertime. If you love to enjoy time by the riverfront, browse the calendar for kid-friendly events like Storytime in the Park, River Rangers, arts and crafts workshops, and more!

Before you head home, kids can cool off at the Kids' Canal splash pad or get out that extra energy at the fully accessible playground at Promenade Park.

 

Children feeding the Salomon Farm Park Goats

Visit a Working Farm and See Mini Highland Cows

Stop by Salomon Farm Park to get out some of that springtime energy. Salomon Farm Park, once privately owned by the Salomon family and gifted by the family to the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department, is now a historic working farm and park open for the public to experience. The farm is free to visit anytime, open daily 6 a.m –11 p.m. See the farm animals, including chickens, pigs, and the crowd favorite Mini Highland Cows!

And … Do-It-Yourself Fun

If you aren’t quite finding the right program to participate in, just check out one of Fort Wayne’s 86 different parks. With splash pads galore and several public pools, not to mention the 50+ playgrounds across the city, there should be something that tickles your family’s fancy to get outside and enjoy the green.

 

This blog was originally published in 2019 and has been updated. Last Updated: April 2024