Fort Wayne, Indiana Wheelchair Accessible Travel Guide

Known for its world-class zoo, public art scene and great food, Fort Wayne is a “hidden gem” among accessible travel destinations.
John seated in his wheelchair in an alleyway with a floral mural painted in the words Fort Wayne.

Located at the confluence of three rivers, Fort Wayne, Indiana is a vibrant city, lovingly referred to by locals as a “big small town,” that offers all of the amenities of a big city in a compact area that is surrounded by public parks and greenery. In 2023, Visit Fort Wayne unveiled a 10-year Tourism Master Plan Initiative that commits to incorporating the principles of universal design.

Visitors to Fort Wayne will notice major accessibility improvements already in place or underway, starting with Fort Wayne International Airport, where the $140 million Project Gateway has seen the installation of the first adult changing table at an Indiana airport, a dedicated sensory room, and improved way finding features throughout the terminal. Local attractions and business have made their commitment to inclusion clear, and I was delighted to share my “Equal Access Everywhere” message with nearly 300 tourism professionals and business leaders during a keynote address in May 2024.

After visiting the city, wheeling around in my wheelchair, and touring its local shops, restaurants, parks and attractions, I was confident in calling the City of Fort Wayne my “Hidden Gem in Accessible Travel” for 2024. Using this guide to wheelchair accessible travel in Fort Wayne, Indiana, you will be prepared to explore and experience this city in the same way that I have.

Guide Contents

Fort Wayne Airport Accessibility - Wheelchair Travel
Guide to flying to Fort Wayne with a wheelchair or disability; how to request assistance for people with disabilities at the FWA airport.
11 Wheelchair Accessible Things to Do in Fort Wayne - Wheelchair Travel
Wheelchair accessible attractions in Fort Wayne include the Zoo, Art Museum, Promenade Park, downtown murals and Turnstone Paralympic Center.
Wheelchair Accessible Hotels in Fort Wayne - Wheelchair Travel
Reviews and photographs of wheelchair accessible hotel rooms in Fort Wayne, with roll-in showers, ADA bathtubs, grab bars and more.
Wheelchair Accessible Public Transportation in Fort Wayne - Wheelchair Travel
Wheelchair accessible guide to public transportation in Fort Wayne, Indiana, including city bus and Citilink Access paratransit service.
Fort Wayne Wheelchair Taxis - Wheelchair Travel
Information on private wheelchair accessible transportation services for hire in Fort Wayne, to include non-emergency medical transportation.
Wheelchair Accessibility of Fort Wayne Sidewalks - Wheelchair Travel
Useful information to know about navigating Fort Wayne’s streets, sidewalks, curb ramps and crosswalks with a wheelchair or disability.

Additional reading

The following articles from the Wheelchair Travel Blog and Newsletter provide additional insight into the City of Fort Wayne, covering topics relating to accessible tourism in one of America’s most hospitable cities.

Sailing in Steerage and a Love Story for the Ages - Wheelchair Travel
How a ship’s manifest unlocked a secret to my family history — and allowed me to answer my mom’s lifelong question — where are we from?

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