He does everything other kids do, but in his own way. His best friend is his cousin Kamy, who was born with childhood apraxia of speech. They have a YouTube channel, youtube.com/@KVTVShow, where they show everyone how they do things just a little differently...and being different is okay! Go explore Vine’s favorite spots in Fort Wayne for yourself and see why he loves them!
This is Vine, and he loves to explore Fort Wayne!
Fort Wayne Children's Zoo
Feeding the giraffes and riding the Z.O.&O. Railroad ride at the Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is one of Vine's favorite activities. The Zoo is internationally recognized for its innovative displays, award-winning animal exhibits, and well-manicured grounds. Pathways in the zoo can be accessed smoothly with a wheelchair except for the gravel paths in the Indiana Farm and Australian Adventure. There are accessible rides and adult changing tables available, sensory kits, wheelchair rental and charging, accessible restrooms, and designated areas for families to go if they need a quiet place to rest.
Science Central
Vine loves any exhibit involving bones or digging at Science Central! Sometimes he even brings along an interesting rock and the staff helps him identify it. The massive interactive museum has over 200 hands-on exhibits that are all accessible except the Confusion Illusion Room (angled floor). The Demonstration Theater has voice-to-text and back-support bleacher chairs and wheelchair accessible seating for science programs. Science Central hosts Disability Days when modifications are made to the building, exhibits, and staffing to make the visit more enjoyable for all. Each day includes special programming to provide fun, science education for participants with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Sweetwater
Vine has a blast playing arcade games and sliding down the two-story slide at Sweetwater! Whether you want to play, learn, or listen, there’s always something fun happening at Sweetwater. They have an easily accessible entrance and parking, paved sidewalks, and accessible restrooms that make its campus very wheelchair friendly.
Taylor's Dream Boundless Playground
Taylor's Dream Boundless Playground is Indiana's first boundless playground and offers children physical, sensory, and developmental support and fun. Vine says, "I can get out of my wheelchair and move around, and it has options for kids who can't get out of their chairs. I also love the splash pad!". This park is divided into three areas that were designed for different aged children's needs providing every child an opportunity for play.
Turnstone
Vine loves the opportunity to visit Turnstone and watch the USA Paralympic Goalball team’s practice. Turnstone empowers people with disabilities to achieve their highest potential by providing comprehensive services and programs. With more than 190,000 square feet of fully accessible facilities, and more than 20 years of experience providing adaptive sports and recreation opportunities, Turnstone can provide a unique setting for the most memorable experiences.
Promenade Park
Packing a picnic is one of many ways Vine enjoys his time at Promenade Park. He says, "The splash pad is so fun, and I love rolling my wheelchair across the Wells Street Bridge and exploring down by the water." Promenade Park is one of Fort Wayne's most disability-inclusive parks with wheelchair friendly trails, an accessible kayak/canoe launch, smooth transitions from sidewalk to grass, sensory experiences, and an accessible playground.
Botanical Conservatory
Surround yourself with nature at the Foellinger-Friemann Botanical Conservatory, an oasis in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne! Vine enjoys seeing the waterfall and the giant plants, among the bounty of other things to explore. One can typically expect a serene environment, but on those days that it is crowded and busy, there are quiet rooms available. All pathways are easily accessible using a wheelchair and there are benches available along the way.
Fort Wayne Farmers Markets
Vine loves exploring the Saturday morning farmers markets because there's always kid-friendly stuff to do, and both the YLNI Farmers Market and Ft. Wayne's Farmers Market are fully wheelchair accessible. The markets are the perfect shopping location for fresh produce, handmade jewelry and crafts, flowers, local artwork, and more! Stay, visit, dine, listen, and enjoy the sights, sounds, and heartbeat of Fort Wayne.
The Hoppy Gnome
And finally, after a day of exploring Vine's favorite activities, enjoy a meal on the outdoor patio at his favorite restaurant - the Hoppy Gnome! This restaurant specializes in an eclectic, made from scratch menu that offers tacos, tortas, and other chef-driven dishes.
See Vine’s feature on page 29 of the 2023 Visitors Guide!
