Top 2 Most Scenic Drives In Fort Wayne Indiana

Exploring Fort Wayne, Indiana, by car can be an enchanting experience, especially when you know the right routes to take. If you’re looking for the best scenic drives in Fort Wayne, Indiana, you’re in for a treat. This article highlights the top two scenic drives that offer breathtaking views, charming stops, and memorable roadside attractions. Buckle up and enjoy the ride!

1. The Historic Lincoln Highway

Overview

The Lincoln Highway is one of the most iconic and historically significant roads in the United States. Established in 1913, it was the first coast-to-coast highway connecting New York City to San Francisco. Spanning over 3,000 miles, the highway changed the landscape of American travel and commerce. Fort Wayne, Indiana, played a key role in this transformation. The city’s position along the Lincoln Highway helped shape its development and contributed to the growth of the national highway system. Today, traces of this historic route can still be seen in Fort Wayne, where the legacy of the Lincoln Highway continues to influence local culture and infrastructure.

Key Attractions

While much of the original Lincoln Highway has evolved into modern highways and roads, several historic landmarks in Fort Wayne still reflect the road’s influence.

• The Lincoln Highway Monument
  Located in downtown Fort Wayne, the Lincoln Highway Monument stands as a tribute to the road’s role in the city’s history. The monument commemorates the highway’s route through Fort Wayne and its importance to the growth of the city. It’s a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and visitors wanting to connect with the past.
• The Wells Street Bridge
  Built in 1914, the Wells Street Bridge is another important landmark. This bridge once served as a vital crossing for travelers on the Lincoln Highway heading west. The bridge remains a historic symbol of the city’s role in America’s early highway system and still stands as a key transportation link in Fort Wayne today.
• The Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor
  While not solely within Fort Wayne, the Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor runs through northeastern Indiana, showcasing historical sites, museums, and landmarks related to the highway’s development. Traveling this corridor offers an immersive experience into the early days of cross-country travel.

Relatable Example

The Lincoln Highway had a profound impact on Fort Wayne’s development, just as it did for many cities along its route. As one of the earliest paved highways, it brought increased traffic, tourists, and commerce to Fort Wayne. Local businesses, including motels, diners, and gas stations, sprung up to cater to travelers along the route. These businesses helped drive the city’s economy, and many of these early establishments became integral to Fort Wayne’s identity.

For instance, motels built along the highway provided travelers with much-needed rest stops, while local diners offered a taste of regional food. This influx of business spurred improvements in infrastructure, such as the development of better roads and services for travelers. Over time, Fort Wayne evolved from a small town to a regional transportation hub, largely due to its connection to the Lincoln Highway.

More Information

For those interested in exploring more about Fort Wayne’s connection to the Lincoln Highway, there are a variety of resources available. The Lincoln Highway Association offers valuable historical information about the road’s route and its impact on communities like Fort Wayne. The Lincoln Highway Heritage Corridor provides detailed maps and guides for travelers looking to explore historic sites along the highway.

Local museums, such as the Fort Wayne History Center, also house exhibits about the development of the Lincoln Highway and its effect on the city. Additionally, driving the modern-day US 30, which follows much of the original route of the Lincoln Highway through Fort Wayne, allows visitors to see firsthand the lasting legacy of this iconic road.

In conclusion, the Lincoln Highway’s passage through Fort Wayne is a defining moment in the city’s history, shaping its development and positioning it as a key player in the expansion of America’s highway system. Today, the historic route is celebrated with monuments and landmarks that continue to tell the story of a time when cross-country travel was transforming the country.

2. The Country Roads of Allen County

Overview

Take a drive through the serene countryside of Allen County to experience the pastoral beauty that surrounds Fort Wayne. This route is ideal for those who appreciate tranquil landscapes and charming rural scenes.

Key Attractions:

• DeBrand Fine Chocolates Factory: Start your journey with a sweet note by stopping at DeBrand Fine Chocolates. Take a tour and enjoy some of the finest chocolates in the region.

• Fox Island County Park: This park offers stunning views, hiking trails, and the chance to observe local wildlife. It’s the perfect natural oasis for a break from your drive.

• Historic Towns: As you drive, explore the small historic towns like Grabill and Leo-Cedarville, where antique shops and local eateries invite you to stop and visit.

Relatable Example:

Picture yourself enjoying a peaceful drive with open fields on either side, stopping at a local diner for some homemade pie, and ending your excursion with a chocolate sampling at DeBrand.

More Information:

For a complete guide to visiting the rural areas and attractions around Fort Wayne, visit the [Visit Fort Wayne website](https://www.visitfortwayne.com).

By following these scenic routes, you’ll discover the beauty and charm that Fort Wayne has to offer. Each drive provides unique opportunities to explore different aspects of the region’s landscape and culture. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these scenic drives promise an unforgettable experience.