If you’ve got a layover in Fort Wayne, don’t let it go to waste sitting at FWA. The city, in United States, is within easy reach — roughly 100 minutes by Citilink Bus. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Three things to verify before you walk out of FWA:
- Can you legally enter United States? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Citilink Bus, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
Getting to Fort Wayne from the Airport
| Option | Approximate Time | Cost Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Citilink Bus | ~100 min | $ | Recommended for layovers |
| Taxi / Ride-share | ~120 min | $$$ | Convenient but traffic-dependent |
For a layover, the Citilink Bus is usually the way to go. It’s predictable, which matters when you have a flight to catch. Taxis can be faster in ideal conditions but slower when traffic builds up.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Fort Wayne, budget roughly $37 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $18 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $9 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Fort Wayne.
What to Do With Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at FWA may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Fort Wayne’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
How to Spend Your Time in Fort Wayne
Two recommendations for your time in Fort Wayne:
Start with Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory. Great for a short stroll — bring a coffee and take it easy. Then, if time allows, make your way to Fort Wayne Museum of Art. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at FWA, check out FWA Airport Art Collection or Free Wi-Fi & Charging Stations to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Fort Wayne, local travelers recommend Casa Ristorante Italiano. If you have time for a second stop, Proximo is another popular pick.
Back at FWA, Crosswinds Bar & Grill is the go-to. The Grind rounds out your in-terminal options.
Need a Nap? Options at FWA
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, FWA has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at FWA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Fort Wayne or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in Fort Wayne genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.