Tourist Info
Restaurants
There is a great variety of places to eat and things to do in the Fort Wayne area, much of it within walking distance of the conference hotels. And concessions will be offered in our Conference Exhibit Hall during morning and lunchtime hours.
For more information about the more than 50 walkable eateries near our conference venue, and a multitude of sightseeing options, check out our Visit Fort Wayne website.
Several restaurants are offering discounts to our Conference attendees. The Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass is an app that can be downloaded here. For those restaurants that use it, the app is necessary to receive the discount.
| Restaurant | Discount | Frequency | Location | Days Open | Remarks |
| Bistro Nota | 15% off any item | once per 7 days | 620 Calhoun Street | Wed thru Sat | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| Conner's Kitchen & Bar | 10% off entire purchase | once per 7 days | Courtyard by Marriott | Daily | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| Features Bar & Restaurant | 20% off | one time only | Fort Wayne Hilton Hotel | Daily | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| JK O'Donnell's | 50% off appetizer | one time only | 121 W Wayne Street | Tues thru Sat | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| Nawa | 10% off lunch | one per table | 126 W Columbia St. | Daily | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| Arbor Restaurant | 20% off | one time only | Bradley Hotel Main Floor | Daily, no dinner Sunday | Coupon in Visit Fort Wayne Savings Pass |
| Tolon | 10% on food | any time | 614 S. Harrison St. | Wed thru Sun | Show Attendee Badge or Registration on App |
| Saisaki | free spring roll appetizer | when ordering entree | 200 E Main St, Suite 120 | Daily | Show Attendee Badge or Registration on App |
| Copper Spoon | 10% off food | any time | 301 W Jefferson Blvd. | Mon thru Sat | Show Attendee Badge or Registration on App |
| Amore | free focaccia for table | when ordering entrees | 239 Pearl St. | Mon thru Sat | Show Attendee Badge or Registration on App |
Tours
During the Conference, several tours to local attractions will be offered. Look for these in the Registration process.The Art This Way tour, led by Alex Hall, provides a unique opportunity to explore the city's vibrant public art scene through the eyes of an experienced guide. Alex, a passionate advocate for the arts, takes participants on an engaging journey to discover the impressive murals, sculptures, and installations adorning the streets. During the tour, she shares insights into the artistic process and the significance of public art in enriching community spaces, fostering a deeper appreciation for creativity. Free.
Embark on an exclusive experience at the Fort Wayne Museum of Art! Join us for a truly special edition of our Fort Wayne Museum of Art tour. Not only will you be guided by our expert docent, Sharon Eisbart, but you'll also be accompanied by Charles Shepard, the director of the museum himself! Together, Sharon and Charles will lead attendees on a rare behind-the-scenes viewing of a true treasure from the museum's vault - "The Burial" by Larry Rivers - a powerful piece generously donated by the iconic Gloria Vanderbilt. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the museum's outstanding glass collection, to hear about the glass collection's relationship to Jewish artists and donors, and to view and learn about Rivers' first major piece. $10/person.
A TinCaps baseball game at Parkview Field is an exciting experience for sports enthusiasts and families. As one of the premier minor league ballparks, Parkview Field boasts a modern atmosphere with stunning views and a lively community spirit. The TinCaps are the Class A affiliate of the San Diego Padres. Tuesday evening, August 12th at 6:35 pm - TinCaps vs West Michigan Whitecaps. $15/person, reserve up to six tickets.
On Your Own
You or your family may want to explore these other sightseeing opportunities while you're in the area. More information about these and other attractions is also available from Visit Fort Wayne.
A tour of DeBrand's Chocolatier offers a delightful experience for chocolate lovers. Renowned for its high-quality, hand-crafted chocolates, DeBrand’s allows visitors to observe skilled chocolatiers at work, learning about the techniques and ingredients behind their famous truffles and caramels. Guided tours provide insights into the history and artistry of DeBrand’s unique flavors. Guests can sample a variety of chocolates and visit the retail shop for treats or enjoy specialty coffees and desserts in the elegant café. $10/person, which can be applied to a purchase of $20.
Visiting Sweetwater Sound is an unforgettable experience for music lovers, whether a seasoned musician, an aspiring artist, or a fan. As one of the largest music retailers in the nation, Sweetwater offers a dynamic environment to explore a 100,000-square-foot showroom filled with instruments and equipment, including wonderful guitars and professional recording gear. Friendly, knowledgeable staff provide expert advice and personalized demonstrations. Free.
Explore the enchanting gardens of the Botanical Conservatory on a guided tour that immerses visitors in stunning seasonal displays, including tropical rain forests and vibrant floral exhibitions. Knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into diverse plant species and sustainable practices thriving within the conservatory. This experience blends education and inspiration, emphasizing the importance of plant conservation in our ecosystem. $5/person, or $7/person for a guided tour.
The Embassy Theatre provides guided tours that showcase its beautiful architecture and rich history. Opened in 1928, this restored venue boasts ornate decor, elaborate murals, and a grand lobby. Visitors will discover the theater's origins, cultural significance, and the wide range of events it has hosted, including concerts and Broadway shows, as knowledgeable guides share engaging stories about its design, restoration and notable performers. $10/person, tours available Friday and Tuesday.
Sweet Breeze is a charming boat tour experience offering leisurely excursions on the St. Mary’s River aboard a beautifully restored riverboat. Guests can enjoy scenic views, learn about the local history and ecology of the area, and relax while cruising the waterways. The tours often include informative commentary, making it a great way to experience Fort Wayne's natural beauty and cultural heritage. Between $20-$30/person, depending on cruise length (45 to 90-minutes).
Visiting the Fort Wayne Zoo is a captivating experience for all ages, showcasing over 1,500 animals from around the world, including lions, otters, and exotic birds. The zoo features immersive exhibits that replicate natural habitats, allowing guests to observe animals in their environments. With interactive experiences such as feeding sessions and educational programs, visitors learn about wildlife conservation and endangered species. The zoo's beautiful landscaping and picnic areas provide a perfect setting for a fun, memorable day outdoors with family and friends. $20/person per adult, $18/person for ages 12 and under.
The Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum in Auburn, Indiana, is a must-visit for automobile enthusiasts and history buffs. Located in a beautifully preserved Art Deco showroom, the museum features a stunning collection of classic cars, including the iconic Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg brands. Visitors can explore over 100 automobiles and learn about the history and heritage of these legendary nameplates. The museum highlights the design, engineering, and craftsmanship of each vehicle, showcasing their significance in the automotive industry. The 1930s Art Deco building was designed by Jewish architect, Alvin Strauss. $15/person for adults, $10 for children under 18.
Pre-Conference Events
If you decide to come to Fort Wayne early, consider the following pre-conference events:Attend Congregation Achduth Vesholom's Friday Night Live outdoor service on August 8 at 6:30 p.m., led by Rabbi Meir Bargeron and featuring Heartland Sings, a spirited vocal group known for their diverse performances that celebrate the joy of music and foster a love for the arts. Tap your toes and share in the joy of Shabbat during this lively worship experience. Before services at 5 p.m., join the ROMEOs (Retired Old Men Eating Out) for a BBQ featuring kosher hot dogs and veggie burgers. Enjoy s’mores for dessert around the CAV fire pit after the service. Guests attending the IAJGS conference are welcome! Free, but RSVP required for dinner, by Tuesday, August 5.
The Embassy Theatre Organ and Silent Film Event will take place on Sunday August 10, 2025, with screenings of The Immigrant and The Gold Rush. This is a rare opportunity to see a silent film in one of the original old-time movie palaces, now beautifully restored to its original condition. The two-reel The Immigrant cemented Charlie Chaplin’s reputation as a filmmaker who could combine slapstick comedy with more serious themes of social satire. Although Chaplin’s iconic alter ego The Little Tramp was at best ambiguously Jewish in the film, he does circulate among various ethnic types including other performers more explicitly depicted as immigrant Jews. The comedy short notably premiered right after the 1917 Immigration Act which through quota systems barred entry to the U.S. based on nationality and ethnicity. In 1998 the Library of Congress selected the film for preservation as “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant,” naming it to the National Film Registry.
The Embassy offers patrons a unique and historic experience like none other! Whether you desire to focus on the Grande Page pipe organ on its own or alongside iconic films from a century past, this lovely and melodic instrument is showcased by an array of talented organists who specialize in highlighting its thrilling music and sound effects. $10/person.