Winter Trip Ideas

Winter in the Midwest can be cold and snowy – but that’s no reason to stay at home. In Fort Wayne, we believe in making the most of every month of the year, and we invite you to join us for a winter adventure!

Whether or not you are seeking outdoor adventure, or cozy indoor activities, Fort Wayne, Indiana has the right activities to help you plan a memorable winter getaway!

Family-Friendly Winter Getaways

Don't let cold weather freeze your trip to Fort Wayne! There's plenty of ways to enjoy the chilly temperatures outdoors or inside. Here are our suggestions for what to do if you're visiting Fort Wayne in the winter months.

Take our Winter Adventure Quiz to find the perfect getaway for your group.

Bundle Up for Outdoor Adventure

Families will find dozens of outdoor activities to fill their weekend in Fort Wayne, Indiana!

There are plenty of places to observe the stillness of nature on a winter hike! Explore Bicentennial Woods or one of other the Acres Land Trust Sites for FREE with the Fort Wayne Outdoor Pass.

Nothing beats ice skating in the fresh air. During winter months, you can enjoy the Headwaters Park ice rink, located in downtown Fort Wayne. While you are downtown, enjoy a self-guided public art tour and dozens of boutiques and unique restaurants that are sure to hit the spot.

And don’t forget your sled! We’ve compiled a list of the best sledding hills in Fort Wayne – perfect for some outdoor adventure!

Urban Outdoor Adventure

Indoor Family Fun

Fill your weekend away with some of these great Fort Wayne, Indiana activities.

Destination Downtown

Explore Downtown Fort Wayne this season. The Botanical Conservatory is a great place to get warm and enjoy a tropical environment. They offer many activities for adults, children, and families. And, get hands-on with science and technology at Science Central. They are just two of the museums your family will enjoy in Fort Wayne!

Downtown Fort Wayne is also home to a self-guided public art tour and dozens of boutiques and unique restaurants that you won’t want to miss. And be sure to explore our museums and attractions.

Culinary Adventures

Dine like a local and discover unique experiences, dining destinations, and flavor at every price point. Pull up a seat to dine at historic diners and hot dog stands, fresh fine dining, and restaurants where chefs are redefining Midwestern cuisine. Popular dining destinations include The Landing and the food hall at Union Street Market at Electric Works. 

Be sure to mark your calendars for Savor Fort Wayne, where more than 50 restaurants provide special menu deals for 12 days during January. It’s the perfect time to explore Fort Wayne’s food and drink scene!

Discover Special Events

Search our calendar of events for special events and activities taking place during your visit. You won’t want to miss Winterval, Weather the Fort, and many of the other special winter celebrations we have in store for you!

Sports-Themed Getaways

Your teens will enjoy some of our active indoor recreation spots including Crazy Pinz, Lazer X, Deadeye Dick's, Wizards World Pinball, and Combat Ops. All are offering safe options for your kids to burn off that excess winter energy.

Fort Wayne is home to three minor-league sports teams perfect for family-friendly fun any time of year. During the winter, enjoy Komet Hockey at the Memorial Coliseum.

Warm Up Indoors