Fort Wayne is one of those cities that you could pass by if you aren’t really looking for it. But, with a diverse range of restaurants and other attractions, it’s worth stopping in.
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Map of Fort Wayne – Travel Guide for Fort Wayne
Fort Wayne is a city in northeastern Indiana. As of the 2010 census, the city had a population of 201,178. Located on the St. Joseph River, it is the county seat of Allen County and home to Eastern State Penitentiary. The city is also the headquarters of Owens-Illinois Inc. and has major industrial plants along the river. Fort Wayne was founded on February 12, 1819, by a group of white settlers from New York City led by General John Scott.
The city grew rapidly after its incorporation in 1836 and was designated as the capital of Indiana Territory in 1840. In 1851, during the mid-term American Civil War, Fort Wayne became the temporary capital of the Union after Indianapolis was occupied by Confederate forces.
The city was devastated by a fire in 1872 and never recovered economically; however, it continued to grow due to its military importance and became an industrial center in the late 19th century. After World War II, the city diversified its economy into information technology and administration services. In 1988, Fort Wayne received national attention when then-mayor Tom McNamara proclaimed it “The City of Good Neighbors.”
Fort Wayne: A Travel Guide For Fort Wayne, Indiana Photo Gallery
History of Fort Wayne
The history of Fort Wayne dates back to 1824, when General William Henry Harrison and his army stopped on their way to victory at the Battle of Tippecanoe. Harrison decided to make a temporary camp here while he waited for reinforcements. In 1838, the town of Fort Wayne was officially established and named in honor of General Harrison. The city grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the Wabash River and its proximity to the major railroad hub of Chicago.During the Civil War, Fort Wayne served as a supply depot for the Union Army.
In 1863, Confederate forces burned down most of the city’s buildings, but the population rebuilt quickly and by 1865 Fort Wayne was again thriving.In 1899, Fort Wayne became home to the Purdue University School of Engineering. Today, Purdue University is one of the largest universities in Indiana and Fort Wayne is home to several other prestigious institutions, including Saint Mary’s College and Ivy Tech Community College.The city has also been home to several famous people, including entertainer Liberace, baseball player Ty Cobb, and author Eudora Welty.
What to See and Do
Fort Wayne is a city of about 260,000 people located in northeastern Indiana. It’s known for its cultural attractions, including the Allen County War Memorial and the Indiana State Museum, as well as its vast array of shopping options. Here are some things to see and do in Fort Wayne:
Take a stroll down main street and check out the eclectic mix of businesses – from antique stores to trendy boutiques. Grab a bite at one of the many restaurants or cafes, or take in a show at one of the many theaters.
Visit one of the many museums in town, like the Allen County War Memorial or the Indiana State Museum. Both are filled with interesting local history exhibits.
Take a trip to one of Fort Wayne’s many parks – like Oak Woods Park or Heritage Hill Historic District – and relax on a picnic blanket while taking in the views.
If you’re looking for something more active, head to nearby Huntington Woods or Eagle Creek Park for hiking, biking, or rollerblading. Or try your hand at golfing at one of the city’s several courses.
Where to Stay
There are plenty of hotels in Fort Wayne for visitors to choose from. If you’re looking for a bargain, consider checking out the options at the Best Western or Days Inn. If you’re looking for something a little more luxurious, consider staying at the Hilton Garden Inn or the Sheraton Fort Wayne.
If you’re traveling with children, consider checking out the Holiday Inn Express or Comfort Suites. Finally, if you’re looking for a great value, try the Courtyard by Marriott.
Where to Eat
Fort Wayne has a wide variety of restaurants to choose from. You can find everything from inexpensive pizza places to high-end steak houses. For budget-minded travelers, check out some of the local diners. For something fancier, head to one of Fort Wayne’s many fine dining establishments.
Where to Shop
Fort Wayne has a lot to offer shopping tourists. There are plenty of chain stores like Wal-Mart and Target as well as smaller specialty shops. If you’re looking for more upscale shopping experiences, head to one of the city’s many malls.
Where to Play
There is something for everyone in Fort Wayne when it comes to playing. Tourists can visit a local baseball or football stadium, or go for a few rounds of golf at the city’s many country clubs. Those who want to stay in shape can head to a local fitness center. Visitors looking for something more active can enjoy hiking through the area’s numerous parks, walking trails and bike paths. Where to StayIf you’re looking for accommodations in Fort Wayne, there are plenty of choices available to you. You can find beautiful hotels that offer everything from free breakfast to free Internet access. Some also have meeting rooms and business centers that you may use while in town. For those with children in tow, there are plenty of children’s attractions as well as family-friendly restaurants and lodgings nearby.
Restaurants
Fort Wayne is home to a large variety of restaurants, so whether you’re in the mood for Mexican food, Italian food, American food, or something in between, there’s bound to be a restaurant that satisfies your craving. Here are some of our favorite restaurants in Fort Wayne.
Taco Bell – If you’re looking for fast food, Taco Bell is your go-to spot. The tacos are cheap and delicious, and the drive-through is always busy.
Pizza Hut – If you’re in the mood for pizza, Pizza Hut is definitely the place to go. They have a wide variety of toppings and sauces to choose from, and their crusts are always fresh.
Chili’s – If you’re looking for a casual night out with friends, Chili’s is the perfect choice. The atmosphere is chill and the service is friendly. Plus, their chili is legendary!
Carrabba’s Italian Grill – Carrabba’s offers an upscale dining experience with delicious Italian dishes. The atmosphere is romantic and the service attentive.
Shopping
If you’re looking for a little retail therapy, Fort Wayne has plenty of shops to choose from. From high-end boutiques to hole-in-the-wall stores, there’s something for everyone in the city. And don’t forget about the plethora of specialty retailers that cater specifically to the Fort Wayne community. From yoga studios to bike shops, there’s sure to be a store near you that satisfies your shopping needs.
When it comes to food, Fort Wayne is sure to please everyone in the family. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, Chinese food, or burgers and fries, there’s a restaurant for you. And if you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, check out one of the city’s many gastropubs. Whether you’re in the mood for live music or craft beer, there’s sure to be a gastropub that appeals to your taste buds.
If you’re looking to stay active while you’re in Fort Wayne, there are plenty of options available. From indoor and outdoor recreation facilities to fitness centers and golf courses, there’s something for everyone in the city. And if you want to take things up a notch, head over to one of the city’s several fitness clubs. And when you need to rest your weary bones, Fort Wayne has plenty of spas and salons perfect for a relaxing day or night.
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