Top 11 Things to Do on a Budget in Fort Wayne, Indiana
11. Festivals
Discover some of Fort Wayne's great festivals including Johnny Appleseed Festival in September, Night of Lights in November, Three Rivers Festival in July, and Taste of the Arts in August. With free admission, it’s the perfect activity to do on a budget.
10. Explore The Trails
With more than 140 miles of trails for biking and hiking, there are endless adventures in store. Take a preplanned route that will take you through downtown, to a playground, or to a river, and more.
9. Splash Pads
Splash pads are a great way to cool off and have fun. With splash pads located all over the city, you can find one close or explore a different one for a new adventure.
8. Fort Wayne Museum of Art
Enjoy contemporary and historical pieces of art at the museum and save your budget by stopping in on Thursdays from 5-8. Every Thursday evening from 5-8 admission is free.
7. Public Art
Grab your bikes and explore more than 150 murals and sculptures on the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail! This unique adventure will combine the love of biking with an appreciation for art. Enjoy breathtaking sculptures and awe-inspiring murals around every corner in downtown Fort Wayne.
6. Stroll Around Parkview Field
The concourse at Parkview Field, home of the TinCaps (our Minor League Baseball team), is open daily for a fun place to walk or run. On non-game days, it is open to the public from 7am until sunset. Jog around the concourse or bring your favorite baseball fan for a leisurely stroll. The splash pad is also open daily, Memorial Day to Labor Day.
And if you love to take in a baseball game, TinCaps tickets start at just $7 per person! Enjoy one of the top minor league ballparks in the country, and stick around for the post-game fireworks during the summer.
5. Lindenwood Nature Preserve
Pack a picnic and head to Lindenwood Nature Preserve to bird watch, hike, or just enjoy some fresh air. Be sure to follow the Trail of Reflection to make your way to the beautiful Reflection Pond!
4. Bowling
Bowling is a fun and affordable winter activity for the entire family. Several area alleys offer games for $3 - $7 per person. Check out Pro Bowl West, Georgetown Entertainment Center, Crazy Pinz, and Thunderbowl #1 for pricing and hours.
3. Lunch On The Square
Pack a lunch and head to Freimann Square any Thursday, June through August, for a free concert or event. Food trucks and delicious eats from downtown restaurants are also available.
2. Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory
The Botanical Conservatory is a great place to visit year-round. Check out seasonal displays or take a class. With special $1 nights, there’s something for every nature lover to learn about. Regular admission is $7 for adults and $5 for children ages 3-17.
1. Promenade Park
Explore Promenade Park, Fort Wayne's riverfront park in the heart of downtown. Connecting the natural land and water trails to our vibrant, bustling city, Promenade Park boasts an accessible playground, kayak rentals and launch ramps, a tree canopy trail for scenic walks, a kids canal and splash pad in the summer, and an amphitheatre to take in free concerts during warmer months. Don't forget to enjoy a fun game of ping pong or cornhole.
You can also visit teds snack + bar at the park, for sno cones and yummy bites to eat!
This post was originally published in September 2018 and has been updated. Last Updated: March 2024
