Fort Wayne Zoo

About

The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is one of the top-rated zoos in the country, and it's also one of the most accessible. Spread across 38 acres in Franke Park, this beloved Indiana attraction brings visitors face-to-face with over 1,000 animals from around the world. What sets it apart is a genuine commitment to making sure every guest can enjoy the full experience.

The zoo is organized into several themed areas, including the African Journey, Australian Adventure, and Indiana Family Farm. Each section offers hands-on encounters and immersive exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages. You can feed giraffes, watch sea lions play, ride a endangered species carousel, or take a leisurely train ride through the grounds.

Families visiting with members who have disabilities will find the zoo refreshingly thoughtful in its design. Paved pathways connect every area of the park, and shaded canopies offer relief during warm summer days. The zoo's layout feels intuitive, with clear signage and well-maintained routes that avoid steep grades.

Practical details matter when planning a day out. The zoo is open seasonally, typically from late April through mid-October, with special events extending into the fall. Admission is affordable compared to many larger zoos, and parking is free. Food options are scattered throughout the park, and picnic areas are available if you'd rather pack your own lunch.

Fort Wayne itself is a welcoming city with accessible hotels, restaurants, and other attractions nearby. The zoo sits just minutes from downtown, making it easy to combine with visits to Promenade Park or the Fort Wayne Museum of Art. For anyone looking for a zoo experience where accessibility isn't an afterthought but a priority, Fort Wayne delivers.

Accessibility

The Fort Wayne Children's Zoo is 100% wheelchair accessible. All areas of the zoo can be reached by wheelchair or power chair, with paved pathways and boardwalks connecting every exhibit. No section of the park is off-limits to visitors using mobility aids.

Shaded canopies are placed throughout the grounds, providing covered rest areas during hot weather. The paths are well-maintained and designed to accommodate a comfortable pace for all visitors.

The zoo offers reasonable accommodations for visitors with known disabilities in accordance with state and federal laws. If you have specific accessibility needs, the zoo asks that you contact them at least 72 hours before your visit so staff can prepare appropriate accommodations. This advance notice allows them to tailor the experience to your requirements.

Free parking is available on-site. The zoo's seasonal hours (typically late April through mid-October) and any special accessibility programs can be confirmed by calling ahead or checking the zoo's website.

Contact the venue directly for current details on sensory accommodations, accessible restroom locations, and availability of wheelchair rentals or other assistive equipment.

More accessible places in Indiana

• Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory (Fort Wayne)
• Eiteljorg Museum (Indianapolis)
• Indiana Medical History Museum (Indianapolis)
• Minnetrista Museum & Gardens (Muncie)
• Newfields (Indianapolis)
• Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial (Lincoln City)