AROUND TOWN
Meet Some of the Pets of Fort Wayne Lifestyle
If these are your pets - Please tell them they are in the magazine Since they can’t read!
1. Pepe the Yorkshire Terrier pauses mid-walk, hoping his owner will hand over a treat.
2. Buddy the Pug-A-Pom is firmly claiming his spot on the comfiest piece of furniture.
3. Taz the Shih-Pom strikes their signature pose during a glamorous photo shoot.
4. Dixie gives a cheerful “Hi!” to fellow commuters during rush hour.
5. Kit looks around in confusion—“Wait, I thought this was Cats Anonymous. Why all the dogs?”
6. Daisy is on high alert, proudly patrolling the neighborhood during her daily outing.
7. Leo shoots his owner the ultimate side-eye after being denied a treat.
8. Frankie’s parents brought home a little brother. They say the resemblance is uncanny—Frankie disagrees.
9. Jasper, Jackson, and Little Bit are always on duty, guarding the yard from any and all intruders.
10. Winter lives for her daily naps curled up on her favorite couch.
All About Kids and Pets
Hello Fort Wayne Friends and Family, August always brings a unique energy-its the last stretch of summer fun, filled with backyard adventures, family outings and just a little bit of back-to-school excitement in the air.
As we soak up these final warm days, we are preparing for new beginnings, fresh routines and another year of growth for the amazing kids in our lives.
Our Kids & Pets Issue is packed with ways to enjoy this special time of year with the ones who matter most-- both the two legged and four legged kind. Inside you’ll find family-friendly features on local favorites like the Summit City Carnival, Jungle George’s and Science Central, perfect for squeezing every ounce of joy out of summer break.
For our new fellow pet lovers, we’re excited to share the top three restaurants in town, along with ice cream spots where your dog is just as welcome as you are-- because summer isn’t the complete without a sweet treat.
As the school year begins and routines start to settle back in, we hope this issue inspires a few more unforgettable memories before the seasons change. Wishing you and your family a joyful end to summer and a bright, successful start to the new school year.
Warmly,
Billy Moore
BILLY MOORE, PUBLISHER publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com Visit our Website www.fortwaynelifestyle.com
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Billy Moore | publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
VP OF OPERATIONS
Matt Coffel | matt@fortwaynelifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Breanna Spillers | bree@fortwaynelifestyle.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
Duane McCoy | nightvigil468@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Madison Kissel-Jonker
DIRECTOR OF BRAND MANAGEMENT
Marco Hernandez | hernandezmarturo04@gmail.com
We are dedicated to consistently delivering top-notch content about the vibrant community of Fort Wayne, from the parks and local attractions to various entertainment venues. The Summit City offers a variety of activities for families to relish and enjoy.
Whether it’s watching a baseball game with the Tin Caps, local movie night or visiting the zoo. Fort Wayne Lifestyle is all about you.
Business Updates
Fun City Adventure Park
The town is buzzing with excitement as Fun City Adventure Park officially opens their doors and invites families, friends, and thrill-seekers to experience a world of fun and adventure. The park is located at 6325 W Jefferson Blvd. This vibrant amusement center offers a multitude of activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages, making it the perfect destination for a day of laughter and excitement.
The Brothers that Just Do Gutters Opens
The Brothers that Just Do Gutters announced the opening of its newest location owned and operated by Scott and Kelli Lutterbeck. Serving Northeast Indiana, this franchise will provide expert gutter installation, repair, and cleaning services to homeowners and businesses throughout the region.
Scott Lutterbeck, a retired Marine Corps officer and helicopter pilot, brings a wealth of leadership experience and dedication to service. After 24 years in the Marine Corps, followed by a 15-year corporate career, Scott sought a new opportunity that would allow him to build something meaningful for his family and local community. His wife, Kelli Lutterbeck, a former corporate travel agent and dedicated stay-at-home mom, joins him in this new venture, combining their strengths to create a customerfocused business. 4811 Jean Dr.
Aunt Millie’s Announces Plans to Refurbish and Preserve Legendary Sign
Aunt Mille’s is looking for the perfect home for the iconic sign that has been a part of the downtown scenery for more than 67 years. The hope is to keep the sign a part of downtown; however, if no resolution can be found the sign will ultimately land at the new corporate office at 6230 Bluffton Road.
Want to be featured ? GET IN TOUCH AT publisher@fortwaynelifestyle.com
Playtime for Pups
Fort Wayne is full of ways for families to enjoy the outdoors alongside their four-legged friends. Two popular spots — Rivergreenway Trails and the city’s dog parks—offer fun, space, and fresh air for both kids and canines.
Rivergreenway Trails
Winding along the St. Mary’s, St. Joseph, and Maumee Rivers, the Rivergreenway offers over 25 miles of paved trails perfect for family walks, stroller-friendly jogs, or bike rides with your dog trotting beside you. With scenic river views, shaded paths, and frequent access points near neighborhoods and parks, it’s easy to make the trail part of a weekend routine. Kids love spotting wildlife along the way, while pups enjoy the wideopen smells and sounds of nature. It’s an ideal way to explore the city while getting energy out—together.
City Dog Parks in Summer
Fort Wayne’s two public dog parks—Pawster Park at Foster Park West and Camp Canine at Johnny Appleseed Park— offer large, grassy spaces where dogs can run, jump, and play off-leash. During the summer months, many families take advantage of the parks' more relaxed seasonal access. With shaded benches, water fountains, and separate areas for large and small dogs, these parks are a hit with kids who love watching dogs play or tossing a tennis ball for their own. It’s also a great way to meet other local pet lovers and spend screen-free time outdoors. In order to enjoy either Dog Park at Camp Canine, all dogs are required to have a Pooch Pass. To obtain your Pass, stop by the Parks and Recreation Department Main Office any weekday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Whether it’s a peaceful walk or a playful park visit, Fort Wayne makes it easy for families and pets to enjoy time together.
Rivergreenway Trails
(260) 427-6000
St Mary’s Pathway Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Hours: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
6 AM-11 PM
Pawster Park
(260) 427-6000
5123 Winchester Rd #5113 Fort Wayne, IN 46819
Hours: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
Camp Canine
(260) 427-6000
1502 N Harry Baals Dr Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Hours: Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday Sunday
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
6 AM–10 PM
Instructions:
FOOD for THOUGHT
Cucumber Ranch
Crack Salad
Whether you’re serving this at a barbecue, packing it for a picnic, or just need a no-fuss side dish, this salad delivers on every front. Best of all, it’s ready in under 10 minutes and requires zero cooking (assuming the bacon’s prepped in advance).
This is the kind of recipe that can easily be adapted or doubled to suit any occasion. Plus, it holds up well when chilled, making it a make-ahead-friendly option for those who like to plan ahead.
Ingredients :
2–3 cups sliced cucumbers
1/2 cup ranch dressing
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1/3 cup cooked, crumbled bacon
2 tbsp chopped green onions
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp dried dill (or to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
• In a large mixing bowl, add the sliced cucumbers and pour in the ranch dressing. Toss to coat evenly.
• Add shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, chopped green onions, garlic powder, and dried dill.
• Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
• Mix thoroughly to combine all the ingredients until the cucumbers are evenly coated.
• Chill in the refrigerator for 10–15 minutes to enhance the flavor, or serve immediately if preferred.
Variations :
Add protein: Mix in shredded rotisserie chicken or diced grilled chicken for a heartier version.
Spicy kick: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños.
Veggie upgrade: Toss in chopped cherry tomatoes, diced bell peppers, or even sweet corn for more color and flavor.
Keto-friendly: Use full-fat ranch and sugar-free bacon to keep it low-carb.
Tips :
Use English cucumbers or Persian cucumbers for fewer seeds and a crisper texture.
Pat your cucumbers dry before mixing to prevent excess moisture from watering down the dressing. If you plan to make it ahead, store the dressing separately and toss it just before serving to keep it crisp. Double the batch for potlucks—this dish tends to disappear fast!
When you make this, let us know! Send a picture to bree@fortwaynelifestyle.com
Kids, Cones & Canines
Looking for cool treats in Fort Wayne this summer that both your kids and furry friends will love? We’ve rounded up the city’s top small, family-friendly ice cream shops—perfect for after-school outings, weekend strolls, or just cooling off with a cone in hand and leash in tow!
Oh Five Scoop Shop
1937 E State Blvd • (260) 494-6069 • ohfivescoopshop.com
A local favorite with hand-dipped ice cream, floats, and the adorable “Ice Cream Nach-Oh’s.” Their dog-friendly patio and pup cups make this a top pick for pet lovers. Kids love the flights of five mini scoops!
Just Cream Ice Cream Boutique
338 E Dupont Rd • (260) 449-1424 • icecreamboutiquefw.square.site
Known for extreme shakes, fun flavors, and waffle cone artistry, this boutique shop is Instagram heaven for teens and tweens. Great for birthday stops or back-to-school treats.
Sweet Monster Ice Cream
6421 Lima Rd • https://www.sweetmonstericecream.com
This colorful spot specializes in rolled ice cream made to order with tons of toppings. Watching your treat come to life is half the fun—perfect for curious kids!
Rusty’s Ice Cream
9171 Lima Rd • (260) 222-9280 • https://www.facebook.com/rustysicecream
A retro 80s vibe with color-changing spoons, vegan options, and jukebox tunes. It’s a hit with older kids and nostalgic parents alike.
The Stand
5200 Bluffton Rd • (260) 747-7300 • standfanfw.com
Part ice cream shop, part drive-in, The Stand serves up sundaes, mudslides, and classic floats. Great for quick stops with kids and pups—just don’t miss the “Brownie Bomb.”
Pufferbelly Ice Cream
Promenade Park (Downtown) • (260) 420-0771 • https://www.pufferbellyicecream.com/
New to town, this scenic stop near Promenade Park offers sweet treats right by the riverwalk and playground— ideal for summer strolls with your pup or post-park playdates.
Family Favorites
Most Pet-Friendly: Oh Five Scoop Shop
Most Interactive for Kids: Sweet Monster
Best Birthday Spot: Just Cream
Retro Fun: Rusty’s Ice Cream
Scenic & Seasonal: Pufferbelly at Promenade
Before you go, check each shop’s socials for hours, flavor specials, and dog-friendly details. Scoop responsibly— and don’t forget to bring a water bowl for your pup!
Local Events
August 1-9, 2025
The Summit City Carnival
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Fort Wayne | Recurring daily
This highly anticipated event promises to bring unparalleled entertainment for attendees across the Midwest. Guests can look forward to attractions for all ages, featuring carnival classics, thrill-seeking rides, and the perfect destination for family-friendly fun. TICKETS: $11.25 Admission Good Any One Day; $21.25 VIP Experience; $26.25 Presale Unlimited Ride Wristband (Tue-Thu); $31.25 Presale Unlimited Ride Wristband (Fri-Sun)
August 9, 2025
Bloom Fest: Local Arts & Nature
Riverside Gardens Park Fairview Dr. | Grabill | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Bloom Fest celebrates two main things: LOCAL ARTS & NATURE. We're very excited to present our eighth annual festival to Northeast Indiana at the beautiful nineacre Riverside Gardens Park in Leo-Cedarville, just north of Fort Wayne! 150+ local artists, artisans and nature vendors, educational non-profits, live music, food trucks, children activities, and so much more!
August 9, 2025
Uncle Kracker, Hubie Ashcraft - Vineyard Vibes
Country Heritage Winery and Vineyard | LaOtto | 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Join us on August 9th for an unforgettable night with music star Uncle Kracker at Country Heritage Winery! Enjoy award-winning wines, homegrown spirits, great food, and amazing live music!
Gates open at 4 PM, with Hubie Ashcraft at 6:30 PM and Uncle Kracker on stage at 7:30 PM. Don’t miss your chance to experience live music at its finest in a charming, one-of-a-kind setting!
August 15, 2025
Safari Bus Tour
LC Nature Park | Roanoke | 3:30 and 4:30
Climb aboard our Safari Bus for a unique, close-up look at LC Nature Park! These guided tours travel the full loop around the enclosure fence—your best chance to spot bison, elk, and other wildlife while taking in the park’s stunning scenery. Tickets must be purchased at least 24 hours in advance
August 16 & 17, 2025
Fort Wayne Tincaps vs. West Michigan Whitecaps
Parkview Field | Fort Wayne | 6:35 PM
On the 16th and 1:05 on the 17th 16th- Postgame Fireworks! “Caps Against Cancer” Presented By Parkview Health 17th- Postgame Autographs Presented By Midwest Box Breaks Sesame Street™ Day with Costume Character Elmo
August 23, 2025
Fiesta Fort Wayne
Headwaters Park Pavilions | Fort Wayne | 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM
Fiesta Fort Wayne 2025 is an annual cultural extravaganza that aims to showcase the rich heritage, and spirit of the Latino community in Fort Wayne. This event will feature engaging activities, including local, national, and regional Folkloric Dancers, traditional food stalls offering authentic tacos/ pupusas/ arepas/ Latino foods, lively piñatas, live music.
August 23 & 24, 2025
Show Me Reptiles & Exotics Show
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Fort Wayne | 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM
Show Me Reptiles is a company that organizes educational reptile events. It doesn't matter if you call us a "Reptile Expo" or a "Reptile Show" we are here for your reptile events! Adult VIP (Early Entry) $15.00; Adult GA $10.00; VIP & GA (7-12) $5.00; Kids 6 & Under FREE
August 24, 2025
Fort Wayne Region Sports Car Club of America (SCCA) Event
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum | Fort Wayne
10:00 AM Rain or Shine | 7:45 - 8:45: Registration | 8:00 - 9:00: Tech open | 8:009:15: Course open to walk 9:00 - 9:15: Novice Walk | 9:15 - 9:30: Mandatory drivers meeting |10:00: First car on course | Sunday EOD: Charity auction ends Course open to walk once the safety stewards clear and verify the course
August 29, 2025
WBOI Presents: Live & Local at The Landing
Columbia Street | Fort Wayne | 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM
WBOI Presents: Live & Local at The Landing. In partnership with 89.1 WBOI, northeast Indiana’s NPR station, this series will showcase some of the region’s most exciting local talent in a celebration of music, community, and summer evenings downtown.
September 4- 6, 2025
Grabill Country Fair
Downtown Grabill | Recurring daily
This popular annual festival, which attracts 100,000 visitors, began in 1973 by the Grabill Chamber of Commerce. Grabill is a quaint town of about 1,000 people, just north of Fort Wayne, Indiana nestled in the heart of a large Amish community. The town’s country-style fair highlights the area’s Amish heritage.
Local Events
Save a Deck, Ride a Cowboy
It was the middle of July, hotter than Satan’s armpit, and your back deck—your sacred summer hangout—was under attack. Something was chewing through the boards, the dog wouldn’t step outside without backup, and your kids swore they saw a “bug with eyes that blinked.” Real horror movie energy.
Could it be termites? Ants? Mosquitoes the size of drones? No one knew. But whatever it was, it was eating your deck like it was an all-you-can-eat buffet—and your kids were starting to look like dessert.
That’s when you saw the flyer: “Save a Deck. Ride a Cowboy.” Below it, a smiling man in a cowboy hat, holding a sprayer like a six-shooter. Meet Tristan, former bull rider turned pest assassin and the face of Pest Patrol
Tristan rolled up in a beat-up pickup with a saddle in the back, a pest-sniffing dog named Daisy riding shotgun, and Bluetooth blaring George Strait. He stepped out like Clint Eastwood if Clint had a degree in Entomology and an Instagram full of ant close-ups.
“Y’all got bugs?” he asked, tipping his hat. You gestured toward the deck, where something chittered and your porch light flickered like it was scared too.
Tristan got to work. He squatted down, examined a termite trail like it was a crime scene, and nodded solemnly. “Yup,” he said. “Y’all got yourselves a full-blown bug rodeo.”
With a sprayer on one hip and a thermal bug detector on the other, he went full cowboy on the infestation. Daisy sniffed out ant colonies like a narcotics dog. Tristan lassoed a wasp nest with dental floss and trapped a squirrel in your attic using peanut butter and Jedi mind tricks.
By the time he was done, your deck smelled like lemon, your kids were back outside doing cartwheels, and even the mosquitoes had filed a restraining order.
“You ever miss the bulls?” you asked as he packed up.
“Nah,” Tristan said, grinning. “Bulls charge. Ants plot.”
He handed you a magnet with the Pest Patrol logo and winked. “Call me before the bugs unionize.”
As he drove off into the suburban sunset, your dog barked happily, and you read the slogan on the back of his truck one more time:
“Save a Deck. Ride a Cowboy.”
And you did. Bless that man.
Is this story true? Who knows? But there is a man with a cowboy hat that kills pests! Tristan and he’s Fort Wayne Lifestyle approved.
Kid’s Quest
Fun At-Home Activities for Dogs and Kids
There are lots of ways to be active with your dog while staying home. It is important to spend quality time with your dog and provide them attention and exercise. Here are some great ways to do that!
Bake Dog Treats
With help from an adult, you can bake your dog some delicious dog treats.
What you’ll need:
A blender or food processor
•1 ½ Cups of Dry Oatmeal
•1 Large Banana
• ½ Cup Peanut Butter
(try to use natural with less sugar)
Directions:
Preheat the oven to 350 F. Use the blender to grind the oats into powder. Alternatively, you can use oat powder if your store carries it. Be sure to check the label for foods that might harm your dog. In a bowl, blend together the banana and peanut butter. This would be a good task for your child! Keep out about a tablespoon of oatmeal powder, otherwise pour the rest into the bowl and mix. Use the tablespoon of oatmeal powder to dust your surface. Roll the dough into a large ball and roll out ¼ inch thick. Another great task for your child! Cut into shapes of your choosing (a dog bone cookie cutter is fun) and place on a cookie sheet linked with parchment paper. Bake treats for about 15 minutes until lightly browned. Cool completely and store in an airtight container for up to one week.
Pawprint Masterpiece
Make a pawprint finger paint masterpiece! Using non-toxic paint, gently place your dog’s clean, dry paw. Move their paw over to the paper and lightly press their paw down. Use different colors to make a true doggie creation! After you are done, wash your pup’s paw off using warm water and their favorite dog shampoo.
Paint with Your Pup
August 24, 2025 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM
Join Riverfront Fort Wayne at the Park Foundation Pavilion for Paint with Your Pup! Dogs will unleash their inner artist as they create their very own canvas paw-jects and get some spreadable treats in the process. Afterwards, capture the creative moments with your pup at the photo booth! Register online or call 427-6000 by August 18. Walkins are welcome if space is available, credit card only. Fee: $10/Dog.
Do-It-Yourself Agility
Create your own Agility jump for your dog. Using household items such as a broom pole and chairs as anchors. Place the pole between the two anchors. Practice introducing your dog to the jump first, then guide them over the jump with their favorite toy or treat
Song and Dance
Change a pop song you like so the lyrics are about your dog. Perform for your family. Make up a dance routine with your dog!
Geometric Dogs
Create a dog picture using geometric shapes: different sized circles, ovals, triangles, squares and rectangles. You can cut out these shapes from paper, or use your computer.
Favorite Places Map
Create a map of your neighborhood and include your dog’s favorite places to sniff and play.
Sit. Stay. Eat.
Fort Wayne’s Top Three Pet-Friendly Restaurants
Why these three?
1. Mad Anthony Brewing Co.
Address: 2002 Broadway, Fort Wayne, IN 46802
Phone: (260) 426-2537
Website: https://www.madbrew.com
A popular brewpub known for its warm welcome to furry friends—complete with water bowls and patio seating. The menu features handcrafted beers, deep - dish pizzas, burgers, and salads. It’s praised for its pet-friendly vibe and solid drink and food pairings on its fenced patio.
2. The Friendly Fox
Address: 4001 S Wayne Ave, Fort Wayne, IN 46807
Phone: (260) 745-3369
Website: friendlyfox.org
Set in a historic neighborhood, this cozy café offers gourmet coffee, pastries, light sandwiches, and wines on a charming patio. It’s consistently highlighted among the best pet-friendly patios in local guides.
3. Charlie’s Place
Address: 4201 N Wells St, Fort Wayne, IN 46808
Phone: (260) 483-2929
Website: https://thecharliehorsefw.com
An upscale yet dog-welcoming spot with a heated patio in cooler months. Their brunch menu features chicken & waffles, avocado toast, shrimp tacos, and nachos—plus special dog treats on request.
All three rank highest on BringFido, TripAdvisor, and local Paw Friendly. They combine quality menus, pet-ready patios (with water bowls or treats), and strong community reviews. Whether you’re in the mood for beer, coffee, or a hearty brunch, these spots make sharing an outdoor meal with your pup a breeze.
In summary:
• Mad Anthony is the go -to for craft beer lovers and laid-back dogs.
• The Friendly Fox delivers cozy charm, pastries, coffee—and wine—on a delightful patio.
• Charlie’s Place steps it up with upscale brunch options, doggie amenities, and season-round outdoor comfort.
Enjoy patio season with your pup—they’ll love it as much as you will!
Wanna Monkey Around?
In the heart of Fort Wayne, there’s a jungle where kids laugh, bounce, and explore every single day—welcome to Jungle George’s Play Place! It’s the ultimate indoor playground for kids ages 2 to 13, packed with excitement, games, and unforgettable memories.
At Jungle George’s, fun starts the moment you walk in. With free bounce time seven days a week, kids can leap into action on more than seven giant bounce houses. Families can enjoy a round of free 9-hole mini golf, and now there’s even a new black light mini golf course—a glowing, colorful adventure through a jungle under the stars!
Planning a party? Jungle George’s has party packages for every size group, complete with pizza, drinks, and plenty of game time. Parents love the spacious party areas, easy online booking, and the fact that walk-ins are always welcome. Plus, field trips and group outings get extra perks—groups of 20 or more kids on weekdays (11 AM–4 PM) each receive a free $5 game card.
Every corner of Jungle George’s is filled with excitement—classic arcade games, delicious food, friendly staff, and a clean, safe space for kids to run wild. Whether it's a rainy day or a weekend celebration, Jungle George’s is the go-to spot for active fun. One young visitor said it best: “It’s like a jungle gym exploded into a pizza party!” And that’s exactly what it feels like.
So if you’re ready to monkey around, bounce high, and explore glowing jungle golf, head to Jungle George’s—kids fun like nowhere else!
(260) 201-3077 • Open every day • Sunday–Saturday • 11 AM – 9 PM
Start your adventure today—no reservations needed!
Where Curosity Comes To Life
Located in Fort Wayne’s historic 1929 City Light & Power building in downtown Fort Wayne, Science Central is where science turns into hands-on fun for kids of all ages. With more than 200 interactive exhibits, it’s a place where touching, building, splashing, and exploring are not just allowed— they're encouraged.
Kids can climb a giant slide, launch balls through towering tubes, or watch a cloud form right before their eyes. One of the most popular exhibits is the Science On a Sphere, a six-foot globe that shows real-time weather, climate patterns, and even the surface of Mars. And in the TOTS area, little scientists under 7 can dig, splash, and play safely in a space made just for them.
Daily science demonstrations bring loud bangs, flashes, and “aha!” moments that make chemistry and physics unforgettable. Special events like STEM Saturdays, themed activity days, and summer camps keep the excitement going year-round. Many local school groups visit for hands-on field trips, and birthday party packages turn a regular celebration into a day of discovery.
Science Central is always evolving, with new exhibits rotating through the Traveling Gallery and a digital planetarium opening soon. Accessibility is a priority, too, with programs like Disability Days offering sensory-friendly experiences for every young explorer.
Whether your child dreams of being an astronaut, engineer, or just loves to ask “why?”, Science Central invites them to explore, experiment, and imagine. It’s more than a museum—it’s a launchpad for curiosity.
Hours:
Monday Closed
Tuesday 10 AM–5 PM
Wednesday 10 AM–5 PM
Thursday 10 AM–5 PM
Friday 10 AM–5 PM
Saturday 10 AM–5 PM
Sunday 10 AM–5 PM
Science Central • (260) 424-2400 • 1950 N Clinton St, Fort Wayne, IN 46805
The Summit City Carnival
This Summer’s Ultimate Celebration of Family, Fun, and Inclusion
Written By: Madison Kissel-Jonker
It’s still Summer! School is just around the corner and families are looking for ways to connect and make memories that will last a lifetime. This August, something truly special is coming to Fort Wayne: the first annual Summit City Carnival, brought to life by nationally celebrated amusement provider, Kissel Entertainment. Running August 1–9, 2025, at the Allen County War Memorial Coliseum, this celebration of thrills, treats, and time together marks a bold new chapter in family entertainment for the city.
For nearly a century, Kissel Entertainment has been a name synonymous with safety, innovation, hospitality, and fun. The company has evolved from its humble Coney Island pony track beginnings into a dynamic, theme park-level operation that travels across America, delivering high-quality experiences to local communities.
Every aspect of their offerings has been meticulously detailed, from custom characters, photo opportunities, and extensive ride theming, to highly trained staff specializing in the highest-quality customer service. The family-owned and family-orientated business is led by visionaries who regularly attend seminars from Disney to bring the best of the best to the communities they serve. Kissel is also a known leader in ride safety, conducting their own training for others in the entertainment industry, including Universal Studios.
This isn't just another carnival, it's a reimagined midway experience, combining nostalgic charm with groundbreaking attractions. Featuring the largest ride lineup in Fort Wayne’s history, including the adrenalinepumping Python Roller Coaster, guests of all ages can expect an unforgettable adventure. From classic rides to some of the most high-tech thrill rides invented, every corner of the fairgrounds hums with excitement.
But rides are just the beginning. Kissel wants to ensure that fun can be experienced at any price point. The Summit City Carnival offers an expansive lineup of free entertainment beyond admission, including:
• A dazzling Big Top Circus
• A nostalgic Michael Jackson tribute show
• A mind-bending hypnotist performance
• Live music from talented regional bands
Food lovers will delight in the return of Ft. Wayne’s iconic Junk Food Alley, alongside a carefully curated selection of new culinary offerings that fuse classic fair flavors with inventive twists. Expect deep-fried favorites, overthe-top desserts, secret menu items, and one-of-a-kind treats to keep the entire family full and smiling.
More than just an event, the Summit City Carnival is a celebration of inclusivity, community, and thoughtful design. Kissel Entertainment is proud to be the first and only Sensory Inclusive™ certified traveling amusement provider through a landmark partnership with KultureCity. Debuting this certification at the Kentucky State Fair in 2024, Kissel became a champion for guests with autism, PTSD, dementia, and sensory sensitivities. This means families with sensory sensitivities can enjoy the event in comfort, thanks to features like:
• Quiet zones and calming areas
• Sensory bags with noise-reducing headphones and fidget tools
• Trained staff who understand and support neurodiverse needs
Inclusivity isn’t an afterthought, it’s a pillar of Kissel’s mission. From breastfeeding stations, baby-changing stations, and service animal water areas, free sunscreen areas, to shaded rest zones, Kissel is ensuring every family feels welcome. And taking that extra step to ensure The Summit City Carnival is a safe and enjoyable experience for all, Kissel is working hand-inhand with local law enforcement, private security, and safety professionals to deliver a smooth, family-friendly environment from opening to closing.
With deep roots in tradition and eyes fixed on the future, Kissel Entertainment is redefining what a carnival can be, immersive, innovative, inclusive, and unforgettable. As R.A. Kissel says, “Our goal is to bring the magic of Orlando-quality experiences directly to Fort Wayne.”
Don’t miss this historic event. It’s not too late! For tickets and details, visit kisselfun.com and be part of a summer celebration unlike anything Fort Wayne has ever seen.
Allen County War Memorial Coliseum Parking Lot 4000 Parnell Ave., Fort Wayne, IN 46805
Fridays Saturdays Sundays Tues–Thurs
(Aug 1& 8)
(Aug 2 & 9)
(Aug 3)
(Aug 5-7)
Opens at 5 pm
Opens at 1 pm
Opens at 1 pm
Opens at 5 pm
Summit City Carnival
A Purr-fect Day Out for Kids and Kitties
Hours:
Friday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Saturday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Sunday 9:30 AM–6 PM
Monday Closed
Tuesday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Wednesday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Thursday 9:30 AM–8 PM
Looking for a purr-fect spot this August?
The Black Forest Cat Café is the place to be! Nestled in the JoAnn Plaza, this cozy, woodland-themed café owned by Fort Wayne locals Julie and Emily Pressler invites kids and pet lovers alike into a world of feline fun and fundraising.
Step inside for a latte and a German-inspired pastry, then treat yourself to a 55-minute session in the Cat Lounge—cozy, reservationonly, and brimming with adoptable rescue cats from Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control. For just $10 per ticket, children (with adult supervision!) can snuggle, play, or simply watch as kitties explore, nap, or bat at toys. Earlier this year, a kitten pop -up event even waived adoption fees for a day, further showcasing the café’s mission to find every whiskered resident a loving home.
Parents love the clean, odor-free atmosphere and vegan-friendly drink options (soy, oat milks available!), plus flexible hours—Tuesday through Thursday 9:30 AM–6 PM, Fridays and Saturdays until 8 PM, and Sundays until 6 PM. From latte art to cat yoga sessions, there’s something for every kid who dreams of a furry friend and a fun outing.
Beyond coffee and cuddles, the café serves as a community hub—hosting private events like birthday parties or school meetups—and supports the local shelter with each adoption. It’s not just a café; it’s a cause with cozy charm and whiskers. Bring your family this August for paws, play, and purpose!
