Welcome to Fort Wayne, Indiana – a dynamic city that perfectly blends historic charm with modern vibrancy, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable girls’ trip. From its burgeoning culinary scene and unique boutiques to an impressive collection of public art and welcoming community spirit, Fort Wayne offers a captivating escape for friends looking to reconnect and create lasting memories. Get ready to explore a city brimming with amazing restaurants, exciting attractions, lively festivals, and charming spots to enjoy a refreshing drink, all while having an incredible time together.
An Epic Fort Wayne, Indiana Girls’ Trip: A Decade in the Making
Revisiting Fort Wayne, Indiana, for a 10-year reunion girls’ trip has been an absolute delight! A decade ago, I had the pleasure of exploring this fantastic city with a lively group of writers, and the experience was truly memorable. The energy and potential of Fort Wayne left a lasting impression, prompting us to plan a return visit to discover all the exciting updates and transformations that have taken place since then.
Our journey to rediscover Fort Wayne was made even more special thanks to the incredible collaboration with Visit Fort Wayne. They helped us curate an epic girlfriends’ getaway itinerary, ensuring we experienced the very best of what this dynamic Midwestern city has to offer. This trip wasn’t just about seeing changes; it was about celebrating friendship, discovering new favorites, and falling in love with Fort Wayne all over again.
Day 1 – From Gulf Shores, Alabama to Fort Wayne, Indiana: A Sweet Welcome
My journey began with an early flight out of Pensacola Airport, eager to arrive in Fort Wayne with ample time to explore and immerse myself in the city’s charm. The travel was seamless, leading me directly to the heart of Indiana.
Upon arrival, the Fort Wayne Airport immediately impressed me. It’s currently undergoing renovations, and the results are truly stunning. The terminal boasts a super modern, comfortable, and incredibly inviting atmosphere, setting a welcoming tone for the entire trip. The commitment to traveler comfort and aesthetic appeal was evident from the moment I stepped off the plane.
What truly set the Fort Wayne Airport experience apart was an unexpected gesture of Midwestern hospitality. As I rounded a corner, I was genuinely amazed to see two gentlemen cheerfully handing out baskets of cookies to departing passengers. They explained their mission was to ensure everyone left Fort Wayne with a sweet treat and a smile. Having traveled through countless airports worldwide, this was a delightful first for me – a small act of kindness that left a huge impression.
Soon after, I met up with Kristen from Visit Fort Wayne, our wonderful guide for the weekend, and we headed straight to The Bradley Hotel to check in for our much-anticipated girls’ trip weekend.
From the moment I stepped into The Bradley Hotel, I knew our stay would be nothing short of fantastic. The hotel lobby is a masterclass in design, featuring a vibrant mix of unique prints, bold colors, and eclectic designs that, against all odds, coalesce into a stunning and harmonious space. It’s an environment that my own brain would never conceive, yet it works beautifully.
The front desk staff at The Bradley Hotel are simply amazing. Their warmth and genuine excitement to welcome guests were palpable. I easily could have spent hours chatting with them about Fort Wayne’s attractions and the hotel’s unique character. Their passion for the city and their commitment to excellent service truly made us feel at home, setting the perfect tone for our Fort Wayne getaway.
Upon entering my room at The Bradley Hotel, the sheer comfort and inviting appearance of the bed almost led me to a spontaneous nap! It looked so incredibly tempting. However, the excitement of exploring Fort Wayne and discovering all its recent updates quickly energized me, pulling me away from the allure of a midday snooze.
One of the most captivating aspects of Fort Wayne is its incredible dedication to public art. Murals and unique art installations adorn buildings and street corners throughout the city, transforming it into an open-air gallery. Everywhere you turn, there’s a vibrant piece that commands attention and sparks conversation. This artistic flair adds immense character and charm, making it a truly visually stimulating destination for a girls’ trip.
The city’s vision for growth is truly impressive, with local developers doing an outstanding job of revitalizing older buildings while seamlessly integrating modern amenities and designs. This thoughtful approach has created a cohesive and appealing urban landscape that draws visitors in, offering both historical depth and contemporary appeal. Our first excursion took us on a pleasant stroll from The Bradley Hotel to The Landing, a charming pedestrian-only street renowned for its array of fantastic Fort Wayne restaurants.
The Landing is a true culinary haven, boasting such a diverse selection of eateries that we immediately began planning which ones to sample over the next few days. The vibrant atmosphere and tempting aromas made it clear we were in for a treat.
For lunch, we settled on Mercado, and I am so incredibly glad we did – it was absolutely delicious! Mercado exudes a fantastic, relaxed vibe that immediately makes you want to unwind with a cold drink and indulge in their exceptional chips and salsa. The vibrant decor and inviting ambiance make it a perfect spot for a leisurely lunch during your Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
You absolutely must try the Falafel Fajita Bowl at Mercado. Oh my goodness, I could honestly eat this every single day and be perfectly happy. This exquisite dish features fried pinto bean falafel, complemented by hearty pinto beans, sweet elote, flavorful rice, tender fajita veggies, rich crema, and fresh guacamole. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures – truly a “Hello YUM!” moment. Beyond the incredible food, Mercado prides itself on crafting all its fruit syrups fresh in-house. Their fruit lemonades, including refreshing passion fruit and strawberry, are made with these freshly prepared syrups, alongside an impressive menu of epic cocktails, ensuring there’s a perfect drink for every palate.
After our amazing lunch, we took a leisurely walk over to The Riverfront at Promenade Park. Witnessing its completion was incredibly moving. A decade ago, during our first visit, we saw ambitious posters depicting the vision for Promenade Park – a dream the city hoped to accomplish. At the time, an amazing riverfront park in Fort Wayne felt like a distant aspiration.
Today, that dream has magnificently come true. Promenade Park is now a stunning, family-friendly area that perfectly embodies Fort Wayne’s commitment to urban revitalization and public spaces. It features a fantastic play area, relaxing riverfront boat rides, convenient kayak rentals, scenic walking paths, comfortable seating, and so much more. The city has truly focused on making the park accessible for everyone, ensuring that Fort Wayne is an open and enjoyable destination for all. This transformation alone makes Fort Wayne a prime spot for a girls’ trip, offering beautiful scenery and recreational opportunities.
For a sweet treat, Puffer Belly Ice Cream was an absolute must-visit. And when they boast about having the biggest single scoop ice cream in Fort Wayne… believe them! This local gem lives up to its delicious reputation, making it a perfect indulgence for any Fort Wayne itinerary.
Puffer Belly Ice Cream offers some of the most unique and delightful ice cream flavors I’ve encountered in a long time. I opted for a combination of Barking Pretzel and Lemon Bar, served in a wonderfully puffy waffle cone, and it was simply divine – truly, SOOOOOOO good. This is a must-try for dessert lovers on a Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
The Barking Pretzel flavor is a creamy brown sugar ice cream swirled with a rich peanut butter ribbon, studded with chocolate-coated pretzel pieces and salty pretzel bark – a perfect balance of sweet and savory. The Lemon Bar, on the other hand, is a zesty lemon-flavored ice cream, enhanced with a graham cracker revel and generous chunks of lemon bar pieces, offering a refreshing tang. While I was tempted by their “rich and famous” ice cream, packed with famous cookie dough, brownie chunks, and chocolate cookie revel all swirled into vanilla ice cream, I managed to stick to a single scoop. And yes, the scoop pictured above is, in fact, just one single scoop! Prepare to be amazed by the generous portions at Puffer Belly.
Our next stop was the captivating Lumpkin Design Stained Glass Workshop and Gallery! This incredible family-owned business has been a cherished part of the Fort Wayne community for over 30 years, showcasing a remarkable dedication to artistry and craftsmanship. They specialize in creating stunning stained glass art, but their expertise also extends to the meticulous restoration of historical stained glass and other delicate art pieces, preserving heritage with every project.
One particularly exciting piece of news we learned is that Lumpkin Design will soon begin offering glass-blowing events in Fort Wayne! This innovative addition is sure to be an amazing activity for conferences, private parties, or even a unique twist to a girls’ trip. I also think it would be incredibly cool if they started offering special date night events in their gallery, providing a truly memorable experience. I was utterly in awe of the sheer size and intricate scope of the stained glass projects they undertake. The photo above, for instance, is a detailed drawing of a magnificent stained glass window they brought to life, highlighting the precision and artistry involved.
Electric Works stands as one of the best examples of how Fort Wayne is brilliantly repurposing its historic architecture in a modern, innovative way. This impressive complex is housed within the original GE (General Electric) buildings, which played a significant role during World War II. A monumental $300 million renovation has transformed these historic structures into a vibrant, contemporary environment that now hosts diverse office spaces, an array of restaurants, and public event venues. It’s a true testament to urban revitalization, making it a fascinating stop on any Fort Wayne itinerary.
Within Electric Works, the Union Street Market is a particularly fantastic space. It serves as a bustling hub for both emerging new restaurants and beloved local favorites, all centered around a spacious open seating area. This setup is perfect for groups, as you can choose from a wide variety of cuisines, beverages, and sweet treats to enjoy in the communal dining space. Paid parking is conveniently located adjacent to Electric Works, ensuring easy access for visitors. This makes it an ideal destination for a group with varied tastes, or when you simply want to sample offerings from multiple Fort Wayne restaurants at once.
For dinner, we made our way to Proximo, and the meal was absolutely delightful. I must admit, we were so engrossed in catching up after a decade apart that I completely forgot to capture photos of the restaurant’s beautiful interior! This wonderful dinner served as a poignant reminder of the invaluable importance of planning getaways with friends – opportunities not just to explore new and exciting places like Fort Wayne, but also to simply enjoy each other’s company and catch up on all of life’s latest developments. It was the perfect end to a busy first day.
Day 2 – Murals, Boutiques, Art, and Great Food: A Fort Wayne Adventure
Our second day of fun in Fort Wayne kicked off with a truly iconic breakfast experience at Cindy’s Diner. This small, charming Fort Wayne breakfast restaurant is an absolute institution, exuding a quaint and irresistible charm that feels like a step back in time. It’s a must-visit for any girls’ trip to Fort Wayne.
You simply cannot miss breakfast at Cindy’s Diner during your Fort Wayne getaway. Be prepared for a potential wait, as this cozy establishment can only accommodate around 15 people at a time, but rest assured, the experience is incredibly worth it. The anticipation only adds to the charm of this beloved local spot.
This was my first time ever ordering a plate of “garbage” at a restaurant, and I absolutely adored it! I initially had no intention of finishing the entire plate, but before I knew it, I looked down to find nothing left. It was truly that good – a delicious and memorable Fort Wayne breakfast experience. The unique menu items and the diner’s playful atmosphere are highlights of the Fort Wayne food scene.
Cindy’s Diner offers far more than just a delicious breakfast; it provides a fantastic opportunity for connection and shared experience. Sitting at the counter, we found ourselves alongside strangers who quickly became our delightful dining companions. We shared laughter, stories, and learned about our new breakfast friends, some locals, and others fellow visitors to Fort Wayne. For a wonderful hour, we formed a temporary community, savoring a delicious meal and enjoying the infectious energy of our fantastic waitress, who kept our coffee flowing and our spirits high. It’s truly one of the unique things to do in Fort Wayne that creates lasting memories.
After our delightful breakfast, we decided to embark on a stroll to a fun boutique and take in some of the incredible murals scattered throughout Downtown Fort Wayne. A charming serendipity occurred once we stumbled upon the vibrant Panda mural; we immediately noticed another captivating mural just down the street and felt compelled to wander over to it. This delightful pattern continued for several hours, as we found ourselves joyfully exploring alleys and streets, continuously discovering and admiring the amazing murals and diverse street art that adorn the city.
The art scene in Fort Wayne is truly world-class, standing out as one of the finest examples I’ve seen of a modern city wholeheartedly embracing incredible murals and street art to enhance its character and infuse joy throughout its urban landscape. The city’s commitment to public art makes exploring its streets a continuously engaging and visually rich experience, perfect for a Fort Wayne girls’ trip focused on culture and discovery. We soon realized we were close to the Fort Wayne Visitor Center, so we popped in to browse their informative brochures and charming gift shop, looking for souvenirs and more local insights.
While at the Visitor Center, we discovered an absolute gem: the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail app! This innovative app helps you locate murals and earn points for visiting them, which can then be redeemed for rewards like cute stickers and keychains. You know I was completely on board with this – the opportunity for a mural scavenger hunt while earning points for charming souvenirs was simply irresistible! This interactive way to experience Fort Wayne’s art scene adds an exciting dimension to a girls’ trip.
The Visitor Center also features a variety of other digital trails and apps, including guides for Allen County Historic Sites, the Fort Wayne Savings Pass, the Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass (featuring Hikes, Bikes, & Paddles), the Fort Wayne Apple Trail, and even a Holiday Lights Challenge. Now, I’m already eager to plan a return trip to Fort Wayne, specifically to explore what the Holiday Lights Challenge entails!
After our inspiring visit to the Fort Wayne Visitor Center, we ventured just around the corner to the delightful Find Boutique Store. This charming shop is absolutely bursting with cute clothes, unique decor items, and so many treasures I was tempted to bring home. It’s a perfect stop for some retail therapy during a Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
They have an absolutely fantastic table piled high with fun stickers! I couldn’t resist picking up a few witty and snarky ones for my laptop and suitcase. The level of clever humor on those stickers was strong, and I was completely here for it. It’s these small, quirky finds that make shopping in Fort Wayne so enjoyable.
Just a short walk down the block, we discovered the Creative Women of the World boutique, a truly inspiring shop that showcases beautiful fair trade and local artist creations. The mission of this store is empowering: to equip women with the entrepreneurial resources needed to develop sustainable businesses through the incredible power of their creativity. It’s a wonderful place to find unique gifts and support a great cause in Fort Wayne.
Here, I found and simply had to acquire these adorable monstera leaf earrings. I honestly could have spent hours browsing through the exquisite jewelry, captivating art pieces, and unique gift items in this boutique. If I lived in Fort Wayne, this would undoubtedly be one of my regular haunts, a testament to the diverse and high-quality shopping experiences available for a Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
Our shopping spree continued as we headed back to The Landing, making a quick stop at The Urban Hippie Boutique. This shop offers a charming collection of cute clothes and stylish hats, perfect for adding a touch of bohemian flair to your wardrobe. After dropping off all our delightful new purchases at The Bradley Hotel, we made our way to the O2 Gallery to meet the talented artist John C. Kelty, eager to delve deeper into Fort Wayne’s art scene.
John C. Kelty graciously gave us a tour of the O2 Gallery, showcasing the impressive range of local artists they collaborate with. I particularly appreciate art galleries that feature a diverse mix of styles and mediums, and the O2 Gallery certainly delivers. It boasts a bit of everything, from delicate pastel work and intricate glass pieces to robust ceramics, vibrant oil paintings, serene landscapes, compelling abstracts, and striking ink drawings, among many others. This rich variety makes it a fascinating cultural stop on any Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
John Kelty was incredibly kind to provide us with a private watercolor class, which was an absolutely amazing and unexpected highlight. The O2 Gallery regularly teaches classes, offering opportunities to sign up for a month-long series or a specific type of drawing class. This hands-on artistic experience truly set our Fort Wayne girls’ trip apart.
I still can’t quite believe I painted this watercolor scene in sepia tones! I never would have imagined such a feat was possible for me. It just goes to show the incredible talent and patient guidance of the instructors at O2 Gallery, making art accessible and enjoyable for everyone. One truly cool Fort Wayne hidden gem is the Easy Tiger vintage shop, nestled discreetly below Kreative Framing, right next door to the O2 Gallery.
This charming vintage store is absolutely brimming with delightful finds. We had such a blast sifting through the racks, rediscovering clothes that were popular during our junior high and high school years. It’s a nostalgic and fun shopping experience, perfect for a girls’ trip to Fort Wayne.
I sincerely hope someone discovers this adorable needlepoint bag and creates a perfectly matching outfit around it! Its unique charm deserves to be showcased. After having way too much fun exploring the vintage clothes and accessories at Easy Tiger, we headed back to The Bradley Hotel to drop off our watercolor masterpieces. There, we met Alex Hall, who then led us on an engaging walking tour of the area’s epic murals and captivating public art.
Our first stop on the art tour was Dana’s Cocktail Bar, where we picked up a delicious drink served in a DORA Cup. The fantastic thing about Fort Wayne’s DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) is that it allows you to leisurely stroll around the designated area with a beverage of your choice, adding a relaxed and social element to exploring the city’s vibrant streets and public art. We spent a wonderful hour walking through Downtown Fort Wayne, learning about the remarkable growth of the city’s mural scene and discovering the diverse talents of the artists behind these magnificent works. It’s an engaging way to experience Fort Wayne’s culture.
One truly remarkable program that Fort Wayne hosts annually is the “Only Rain in the Drain” mural initiative. This fantastic project invites artists to apply and then paint drain murals of their own unique design, transforming utilitarian city infrastructure into vibrant public art. The mural pictured above, for example, was painted by a talented 15-year-old artist. I absolutely love that this program provides both new and experienced artists with an incredible opportunity to participate, earn a paid stipend, and showcase their work prominently within the city. It’s a brilliant way to foster local talent and enrich the urban landscape, making Fort Wayne an exciting destination for art lovers.
Alex even took us to a mural that was still in progress, located within a parking garage. The artist was diligently working on the second section of this community art piece, offering a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the ongoing evolution of Fort Wayne’s public art scene.
I truly appreciate how these murals serve as moments of pure joy, thoughtfully spread throughout the city of Fort Wayne. Each one offers a splash of color, a unique perspective, and a reason to pause and admire, adding an undeniable vibrancy to our Fort Wayne girls’ trip experience. After our engaging art tour, we meandered back to The Bradley Hotel and decided to have dinner at Arbor, the hotel’s on-site restaurant. The charming and inviting ambiance of the restaurant instantly drew us in, making it an easy choice for our evening meal.
I ordered a margherita pizza at Arbor, and it was absolutely delicious – perfectly crisp and flavorful. Adding to the delightful atmosphere, a talented piano player entertained guests with requests, filling the room with wonderful music that everyone thoroughly enjoyed. It’s the kind of intimate and lively setting that makes for a perfect Fort Wayne dining experience.
We ended up lingering in the restaurant, completely relaxed and engrossed in conversation, catching up on life’s details while savoring our delicious dinner. Arbor offers the perfect spot for friends to reconnect over great food in a laid-back, inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal choice for a Fort Wayne girls’ trip evening. After dinner, we ascended to Birdies, the stunning rooftop restaurant and lounge at The Bradley, for some well-deserved dessert and drinks.
Oh my goodness, you simply must experience the drink menu at Birdies – it is truly epic! Why did I have to travel all the way to Indiana to find a drink served in an adorable flamingo cup? I can’t believe we don’t have these delightful creations in Gulf Shores or Orange Beach! The Flamingo drink itself was absolutely delicious, and the cup made it an unforgettable experience. Birdies offers not just fantastic drinks but also incredible views of the Fort Wayne skyline, making it a premier spot for evening enjoyment.
I also indulged in a heavenly apple cobbler served in a jar, perfectly topped with creamy Kilwin’s vanilla ice cream – hello, YUM! From the rooftop, we savored the breathtaking sunset and reveled in the gorgeous evening weather, a truly perfect ending to a fun-filled day. The relaxed ambiance at Birdies made it so easy to talk, laugh, and catch up on life, culminating in a beautiful end to a fantastic day on our Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
Day 3 – Farmers Market, Art, and Outdoor Fun: Discovering Fort Wayne’s Heart
We began our third day with a pleasant morning stroll from The Bradley Hotel to the YNLI Farmers Market, more commonly known as the Barr Street Farmers Market. I had envisioned a small, charming farmers’ market, perhaps with a few flower stalls and fresh vegetables. However, I was absolutely not prepared for the sheer size and extensive array of products offered at this incredible market!
Multiple streets were closed off to accommodate the vast number of vendors and food trucks that lined the area. This market had everything imaginable that you’d find at a large farmers’ market and so much more, making it a vibrant hub of local life and produce in Fort Wayne. It’s a fantastic morning activity for a girls’ trip, offering fresh air and unique finds.
The Barr Street Farmers Market truly offers an incredible selection. There was a dedicated section featuring local distilleries, breweries, artisan coffee shops, and even kombucha vendors. Beyond that, you could find an abundance of fresh, seasonal vegetables, farm-fresh eggs, local milk, quality meats, offerings from an amazing bread bakery, and absolutely gorgeous, vibrant flowers. You could easily gather everything you’d need for a delightful picnic in Promenade Park or one of Fort Wayne’s smaller, charming green spaces, adding another layer of fun things to do in Fort Wayne.
While exploring the market, I couldn’t resist trying an Italian Mac and Cheese from the Baby Got S’Mac food truck, and it was absolutely delicious – a perfect savory treat amidst all the fresh produce. After indulging at the farmers’ market, we wandered over to the Fort Wayne Museum of Art, where I was completely mesmerized by their absolutely incredible glass exhibits; I am still in awe of them.
The Contemporary Glass Exhibit at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art had me gasping in awe more than once. Having grown up in the Pacific Northwest, I’ve always admired Chihuly Glass, so seeing such breathtaking pieces was a special treat. This museum is a definite highlight for art lovers on a Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
Witnessing the innovative ways artists are utilizing glass today is truly impressive and constantly expands my understanding of this medium. There’s a particular sunflower piece that continues to captivate my thoughts. After our enriching museum visit, we met up with our friend Kristen from Visit Fort Wayne to explore the vibrant Taste of the Arts Festival. Fort Wayne truly knows how to put on a festival – WOAH! The event was buzzing with even more food trucks, captivating entertainment on multiple stages, various local art programs, and an abundance of cool art vendors, making it a lively and engaging experience.
At the festival, we happily encountered Alex, who had guided our art tour the previous day. We enthusiastically participated in a community art project, where one of Fort Wayne’s iconic murals was sketched onto small canvases for individuals to paint. This collaborative endeavor allows visitors and locals alike to contribute to a larger art piece.
We painted a portion of the blue bird’s eye on our canvases, and we’re eagerly anticipating seeing how the final, collective project turns out. It was a unique and engaging way to connect with Fort Wayne’s art community, perfect for a girls’ trip looking for creative activities. Lunch at The Deck, nestled next to Don Hall’s Old Gas House, was absolutely fantastic. This inviting restaurant features a wonderful outdoor deck right along the river, offering gorgeous scenic views while you dine.
I must admit, I felt a pang of slight jealousy seeing how impressively large their hibiscus and other plants had grown. It’s quite remarkable how plants in Indiana seem to thrive and even exceed my tropical plants back on the Gulf Coast of Alabama! The Deck proved to be a wonderful spot to relax, chat with friends, and simply soak in the glorious weather, making it an ideal Fort Wayne restaurant for a leisurely lunch. Afterward, we walked over to Fiesta Fort Wayne to enjoy the lively weekend festival.
Fiesta Fort Wayne was incredibly vibrant, featuring even more food trucks, diverse vendors, and fantastic entertainment on the main stage. We watched a couple of the performers, and they were truly wonderful, adding to the festive atmosphere. Next, we explored The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Garden, which is an absolute dream for any plant lover. It boasts three distinct glass buildings, each housing unique and beautifully curated gardens. Unsurprisingly, the tropical plant garden was my personal favorite, a lush oasis in the heart of Fort Wayne.
The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Garden is a truly great family-friendly Fort Wayne activity, perfectly suited for capturing beautiful photos together and enjoying a relaxing time amidst stunning plants and flowers. It offers a serene escape and a visual feast for all ages. As an added bonus, there are multiple sculptures and murals that are part of the Fort Wayne Art Trail conveniently located near the Conservatory, allowing you to easily check them off your list and earn points. This makes it an even more appealing stop on your Fort Wayne itinerary.
We might have playfully “borrowed” a wedding backdrop that was set up for a wedding later in the day to capture a cute group photo – a testament to the fun and relaxed atmosphere of our girls’ trip! After a brief moment of relaxation back at The Bradley Hotel, we ventured out again for a delightful Sweet Breeze Canal Boat Tour in Promenade Park.
Our 45-minute Sweet Breeze Canal Boat Tour, which navigated all three rivers converging in Fort Wayne, was incredibly relaxing and informative. A knowledgeable docent was on board, sharing fascinating insights into the history of the area, enriching our experience and offering a unique perspective on the city. This scenic tour is a wonderful addition to any Fort Wayne itinerary, providing both tranquility and education.
Now, we can proudly say that we have boated on all three rivers that converge in Fort Wayne – a unique achievement for our girls’ trip! After the serene boat tour, we headed to Pinhouse Social, a lively entertainment venue.
Our initial plan at Pinhouse Social was to enjoy dinner and try our hand at duckpin bowling, a game none of us had ever played before. However, it quickly became apparent that this was a popular goal for many, as the lanes were already packed. Despite not getting to bowl, we enjoyed the lively atmosphere and our delicious dinner, soaking in all the activity around us.
Pinhouse Social is an impressive entertainment complex, boasting tons of flat-screen TVs, duckpin bowling lanes, a variety of arcade games, and even golf simulators on the second floor, with an event space on the third floor. It’s a fantastic hub of activity in Fort Wayne, perfect for a fun group outing. I have to admit that on our way back to The Bradley Hotel, we drove through a few more neighborhoods in Fort Wayne, eager to discover additional murals. The Fort Wayne Public Art Trail app allows you to sort by distance, and we realized there were still so many murals and sculptures we hadn’t seen yet.
So far, during our amazing girlfriends’ getaway to Fort Wayne, we have officially checked in at 57 different murals and sculptures! The incredible thing is, I don’t think we’ve even scratched the surface, or are halfway through all the captivating murals and sculptures listed on the Public Art Trail. This is especially true with the addition of new drain murals being painted just this weekend. I’m already planning our next adventure – I think we should definitely plan a winter getaway to Fort Wayne to explore even more murals and tackle the exciting Holiday Lights Challenge digital trail. We’ve heard that the holiday lights displays in Fort Wayne are truly unbelievable!
For our final nightcap, Kim and I decided to head back up to Birdie’s Rooftop Bar at The Bradley Hotel for one last drink and to simply soak in the wonderful vibes. It truly is the perfect spot to unwind with a delicious drink, enjoy the Fort Wayne skyline, and engage in heartfelt conversations about life. It was an absolutely perfect way to conclude our final full day of exploring this charming city on our Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
Day 4 – Fort Wayne to Gulf Shores, Alabama: Farewell to a Fantastic Getaway
I can hardly believe it’s our final morning in Fort Wayne, Indiana. This long weekend girls’ trip has been absolutely incredible, exceeding all expectations, and I’m genuinely sad to see it come to an end. Fort Wayne has truly captured our hearts, making this getaway an unforgettable experience.
We gathered for our final breakfast at Arbor, located within The Bradley Hotel. The hotel restaurant maintains its wonderfully chill and relaxed vibe, making it the perfect setting for a leisurely morning meal before our departure. The food was absolutely delicious, the coffee and caffeine flowed freely, and our conversation was as engaging and delightful as ever, a perfect conclusion to our Fort Wayne girls’ trip.
It was incredibly hard to say goodbye to Kim and see her off to the airport. We both agreed that we must ensure it isn’t another 10 years before we plan another incredible trip to Fort Wayne, Indiana. This city is perfectly designed for a safe and enjoyable girls’ getaway, where you feel completely comfortable walking the vibrant streets, exploring charming boutiques, and savoring fantastic food and drinks together. Throughout our entire visit, we wandered the streets of Fort Wayne and never once felt uncomfortable or unsafe. The renowned Midwestern hospitality you often hear about is not only real but is genuinely showcased and embraced here in Fort Wayne, making every interaction warm and welcoming.
Your Ultimate Fort Wayne, Indiana Girlfriends’ Getaway Itinerary
Planning your own memorable Fort Wayne girls’ trip? Here’s a quick guide to help you start!
Airport – Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA)
Hotel – The Bradley Hotel
Book your luxurious and comfortable stay at The Bradley Hotel here to ensure a central and stylish base for your Fort Wayne adventure.
Top Fort Wayne Restaurants to Savor
- Mercado – 111 W Columbia St, Suite 103, Fort Wayne, IN (Vibrant Latin-inspired cuisine, must-try Falafel Fajita Bowl and fresh fruit lemonades).
- Puffer Belly Ice Cream – 1022 Cass St, Fort Wayne, IN (Home to Fort Wayne’s biggest single scoops and unique flavors like Barking Pretzel).
- Proximo – 898 S Harrison St, Fort Wayne, IN (Excellent dinner spot for friends, featuring great ambiance and delicious food).
- Cindy’s Diner – 230 Berry St., Fort Wayne, IN (Iconic, cozy diner experience with classic breakfast fare and a community feel).
- Kanela Coffee Shop – 618 S Harrison St., Fort Wayne, IN (Perfect for your morning caffeine fix or a relaxed coffee break).
- Arbor Restaurant (The Bradley Hotel) – 204 W Main St., Fort Wayne, IN (Stylish hotel restaurant offering delicious meals and a pleasant atmosphere).
- Birdies Rooftop Bar (The Bradley Hotel) – 204 W. Main St., Fort Wayne, IN (Chic rooftop lounge with epic drinks, desserts, and stunning city views).
- Dana’s – 135 W Columbia St., Fort Wayne, IN (A great stop for drinks, especially for DORA-friendly beverages).
- Coney Island – 131 W Main Street, Fort Wayne, IN (A historic Fort Wayne institution, famous for its original Coney Island hot dogs).
- The Deck – Located at Don Hall’s Old Gas House, 305 East Superior Street, Fort Wayne, IN (Riverside dining with gorgeous views and a relaxed atmosphere).
- Pinhouse Social – 1510 Fairfield Ave Suite 101, Fort Wayne, IN (Lively entertainment venue with duckpin bowling, arcade games, and good food).
Must-See Fort Wayne Things To Do & Attractions
- Murals and Public Art – Spread throughout Fort Wayne (Explore with the Fort Wayne Public Art Trail app for an interactive scavenger hunt).
- Promenade Park Riverfront – 202 W Superior St., Fort Wayne, IN (A stunning urban park offering boat rides, kayak rentals, walking paths, and relaxation).
- Electric Works – 1690 Broadway Bldg 19, Fort Wayne, IN (A revitalized historic complex housing diverse businesses, restaurants, and Union Street Market).
- Lumpkin Design Stained Glass/Glass Blowing – 1012 Broadway, Fort Wayne, IN (Family-owned gallery and workshop, soon offering glass-blowing events).
- Find Boutique – 133 W Wayne St., Fort Wayne, IN (Charming shop with cute clothes, unique decor, and fun stickers).
- Visit Fort Wayne Visitor Center – 927 S Harrison St., Fort Wayne, IN (Your go-to for information, brochures, souvenirs, and digital art trails).
- Creative Women of the World Boutique – 125 W Wayne St., Fort Wayne, IN (Features fair trade and local artists, empowering women entrepreneurs).
- Gallery O2 – 1115 Broadway, Fort Wayne, IN (Diverse art gallery showcasing local artists and offering art classes, including watercolor).
- YNLI Farmers Market (Barr Street Market) – 301 E Wayne Street, Fort Wayne, IN (A large, vibrant market with fresh produce, local goods, and food trucks).
- Fort Wayne Museum of Art – 311 E Main St., Fort Wayne, IN (Home to impressive contemporary art, especially its breathtaking glass exhibits).
- Taste of the Arts – Annual Festival (A lively celebration of local art, food, and entertainment, perfect for cultural immersion).
- Fiesta Fort Wayne – Annual Festival (Experience vibrant cultural celebrations, music, food, and community spirit).
- Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory – 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, IN (Three beautiful glass gardens, offering a tranquil escape and photo opportunities).
- Sweet Breeze Canal Boat Tour – Located in Promenade Park at 202 W Superior Street, Fort Wayne, IN (A relaxing boat tour along Fort Wayne’s three rivers with historical commentary).
We visited Fort Wayne during a hosted press trip. All opinions expressed are our own.