We’re at the final post of the series Family Fun in Fort Wayne and it is full of really tasty restaurants and fun attractions. I’ve already written about day one and half of day two in part 1 and part 2. I was fortunate enough to experience two full days of fun feeling like a local being hosted by Visit Fort Wayne. When you take your trip, give them a call first because they’ll be able to tailor your trip to your family’s tastes. They’re so easy to work with and extremely passionate about their booming city.
I ended with a stop for treats at my favorite chocolate shop DeBrand on Day 2 in part 2 of the series. I’ll start right up where we left off which would be a visit to the Genealogy Center.
Fort Wayne Genealogy Center
When I was first invited on this trip I was asked for a few details on my family history. Upon arrival at the second largest genealogy center in the world, I was blown away by it’s expanse. The sheer number of books is outstanding. We took a tour of the center and learned that people from all over the world travel to their location to learn more about their family history. There are books in their collection that they are the only ones with a copy.
Allison, one of the genealogists, said ‘I love working here. It’s like a big puzzle that you don’t know what the pieces look like or where they go so it’s very satisfying when you find a piece that fits!’ While we were there they gave us a HUGE folder with information on our family tree. They have genealogists on hand that can help you with your puzzle and they reached back to my ancestor that was born in 1802! It was such a special gift to receive and I highly recommend giving them a visit.
Hoppy Gnome
After lots of excitement at the Genealogy Center we headed out for appetizers at the Hoppy Gnome. Tacos, small plates and craft brews are what they’re known for. It’s a brewery where you even get the chance to brew your own beer. How awesome would that be for a bachelor party? We were served with a few of their top items: Huarache (my favorite), chips with queso and quac (also can’t be missed), Asian Tuna Tartare and s’mores with homemade marshmallows that you roast yourself! Even knowing that we were headed somewhere else for dinner, I could hardly stop myself from having their amazing food.
Tolon
We ended the night on a high note with dinner at Tolon. Tolon Oh Tolon. Tolon is my new favorite restaurant. I hate that it’s an hour and a half from me. Secretly wishing the husband (chef) and wife team would get inspiration to move to the Indy area so I can eat there more!
Tolon is Fort Wayne’s first farm to table restaurant located in historic downtown Fort Wayne. They focus on sustainable agriculture from their local farms providing in season produce and Indiana sourced proteins. There wasn’t one item we tried that I thought ‘eh..’ I LOVED it all.
My favorites were the Crispy Brussels Sprouts, Pork Loin Steak, and Corriander Duck Breast. Each dessert we tried was my favorite dessert ever. I will always have a special place in my heart belly for the Applebutter Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Their Chocolate Pot de Creme and their Tres Chocolate Fudge Brownie are also beyond amazing. And now I’m salivating.
Day 3 in Fort Wayne
Proximo
We started our final day with an amazing meal. Remember me talking about Hoppy Gnome earlier? They also own Proximo as well as BakerStreet Steakhouse. I can’t speak for BakerStreet Steakhouse but if it’s anything like Proximo and Hoppy Gnome it’s a must-eat. Breakfast restaurants are my favorite kind of restaurants and Proximo is my new favorite. The ambiance was beautiful and it would make a great place for a business meeting or brunch with the girls.
We tried a large amount of their menu but my favorites were the Carnita Benedict (must), Chilaquiles (must), Steak and Eggs, Dolce de Leche French Toast, Ancho Maple Pancakes, and Garbage Skillet (must). One of my favorite aspects of this restaurant were the prices. Breakfast places are always so expensive but Proximo, despite having amazing food and ambiance, has really affordable prices.
Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo
Despite it being very cold and very windy we had fun experiencing a hard hat tour of the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo off season. I’ve never had so much fun at a zoo where I only saw two animals! Out of all of the amazing places I’ve mentioned, the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is the one you absolutely can’t miss. The zoo opens April 27th and they’ve got major changes this season. Some of them were top secret but we were able to see a few really cool exhibits that will be opening soon.
I loved all of the educational aspects of the FW Children’s Zoo. Before heading into the rainforest area there is an exhibit showcasing all of the different animals and insects you might find in a rainforest. I’m most looking forward to going back to see the orangutans. Their exhibit is like what they would live in in the wild with vines and trees they can swing through. I could have watched them all day because they were so active. The zoo also has a ride in each area of the zoo as well as really good food if you choose to eat at the zoo.
Hop River Brewing Company
We ended our trip with one of the coolest concepts I’ve ever seen. Hop River Brewing Company is a family friendly brewery that is truly family friendly. They cater to all kids, young and old. Their German beerhall-style taproom has rows of communal tables, shelves of board games for all-ages, and pinball tables. You can explore their lively outdoor patio with picnic tables, fire pits, and corn hole. Don’t come to watch the game because there are no TVs to promote interaction. Their beer is amazing and their food is even better (get the onion dip!)
In my opinion, the best part about this company is their dedication to their community and making everyone feel welcome. They take pride in their Fort Wayne community by offering various events in partnership with local non-profits and other Fort Wayne breweries and wineries. They also offer seasonal Fort Wayne dining using local ingredients on our from scratch kitchen menu. A really excellent example of shopping local and I’m happy to recommend them to anyone.
In conclusion, all I have to say about Fort Wayne (aside from the three posts I just wrote) is that I can’t wait to go back. So many passionate people making that city such a welcoming place for people of all ages. I can’t think Visit Fort Wayne enough for sponsoring this trip and all the other amazing places that hosted us on this trip.
If you have any questions, let me know. I’m happy to give advice for your family. There’s so much we haven’t seen yet that I’ve been told I must see on our trip in June. I’m not sure how I’m going to do that when all I want to do is re-visit all of the places I’ve already been. On my list is to definitely see more murals. They’re everywhere! Keep your eyes open for really cool art sculptures that double as bike racks too!
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