Meeting Planners Guide

I N S I D E

MEETING SPACES

Grand Wayne Convention Center .............3-4

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum ......5-6

RELAX AND REFRESH

Hotel Listings ............................................. 7

Fort Wayne Map ......................................... 8

GETTING TO KNOW US

Sports Facilities .....................................9-10

Uniquely Fort Wayne ............................11-12

WE’RE HERE TO HELP!

Convention Services ................................. 13

Transportation .......................................... 14

Welcome to Fort Wayne, Indiana.

We invite you to take a look at Fort Wayne; Indiana’s second largest city.

Need room for a really world-class event?

Our facilities are first-rate, technologically-advanced, and fully adaptable to your unique

needs. We pride ourselves on our outstanding meeting facilities and professional on-site

staff that will surpass those you’ve seen anywhere else.

Whether you are planning a board meeting for 20, a convention for 1,500, or ministering

to a congregation of 10,000, we have the venues, the knowledge, and the desire to make

your event shine.

Looking for a city that can host your tournament or sports event?

You’ve found it! Take one look at our innovative, world-class facilities, fields and sports

complexes and you’ll see why we were named “A Sports Destination to Watch” and

“#1 in Minor League Sports.”

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

Looking for a convenient, cohesive package with all of the amenities you need in one place?

We’ve got multiple options – built around our state-of-the-art convention and event centers.

Located in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, the

Grand Wayne Convention Center offers exceptional

meeting space, attached to all the amenities you could wish for!

Convention attendees will enjoy the two attached luxury

hotels, and skywalk access to covered parking, the Botanical

Gardens, TinCaps baseball games at Parkview Field and live

music and theatre at the Embassy Theatre.

And, within a six-block walkable radius, there are thirteen

attractions and more than two dozen restaurants.

This convenience and accessibility promises your event success,

and your delegates a good time!

The Allen County War Memorial Coliseum is one of the

Midwest’s premier concert, tradeshow and event facilities, and

serves as the anchor to our dining, shopping and entertainment

corridor. Just seconds from the Coliseum, you will find dozens of

hotels, restaurants and activities – as well as Indiana’s largest

indoor shopping center!

Both facilities offer advanced meeting and exposition amenities

that are fully adaptable to your unique needs, and both offer

convenience and proximity that your delegates will appreciate!

From our amazing conference and event facilities to our

outstanding restaurants, hotels, and attractions, Fort Wayne is an

event planners dream – and we can’t wait to learn how we could

make your next event your best ever!

The Grand Wayne Convention Center and our downtown convention package.

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum

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Grand Wayne Convention CenterGrand opportunities await you at the Grand Wayne Convention Center.

You and your delegates will find the experienced staff and world-class

appointments of the Grand Wayne Convention Center the ideal environment

for your next event. With 80,000 square feet of fully carpeted, dedicated event

space and 30,000 square feet of public areas, your convention, corporate

meeting, trade show, banquet or special event will shine in this award-winning

convention center.

The Grand Wayne Convention Center features a sub-divisible 50,000 square

foot multi-purpose Convention Hall. Consistent with the entire Center, it is fully

carpeted, equipped with technologically-advanced sound and lighting systems,

and is acoustically paneled for superior sound quality. In addition, you’ll find

easy-access loading docks, phone lines, computer-driven sound system,

in-house exhibition services and a fully staffed audio-visual department.

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Allen County War Memorial ColiseumThe Memorial Coliseum is one of the most unique event centers in the country, offering two venues under one roof. Its recent expansion and renovations also make it one of the most contemporary and accommodating facilities you will find anywhere. With contemporary, cutting-edge amenities, a professional event staff, exceptional catering services and over 5,000 on-site parking spaces, the Memorial Coliseum has room to make your tradeshow, concert, sporting event or meeting world-class by any standard. It is simply the most versatile space you’ll find – in an extremely convenient and accessible location.

Arena

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Able to host over 13,000

people in the arena and more

than 108,000 square feet of

exhibition space, the Memorial

Coliseum is versatile enough

to host concerts, tradeshows,

sporting events, family shows,

banquets, meetings and

much more.

The technologically-advanced

facilities include event space

outfitted with all utilities,

internet access and convenient

load in and out. The Memorial

Coliseum’s adaptable floor

plans help event planners

design customizable options

that best suit their needs.

Exposition Center

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

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Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available Wi-Fi Available

Meeting Rooms

Relax and Refresh

Fort Wayne’s affordability and

Hoosier Hospitality doesn’t stop

with our meeting spaces – you will

love all of the options that await

for your overnight guests as well!

With dozens of hotels to choose

from - from sumptuous full service

hotels to comfortable bed &

breakfasts—you’re sure to find

the lodging choice that suits you

best. Many offer on-site dining

and other extraordinary amenities,

and all stand equipped to serve

you with the kind of service and

amenities that Fort Wayne is

famous for!

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

America’s Best Value Inn

Baymont Inn

Best Western Luxbury Inn

Candlewood Suites

Comfort Suites North

Comfort Suites South

Country Inn & Suites

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown (on downtown map, page 8)

Courtyard by Marriott North

Days Inn

Don Hall’s Guesthouse

Extended Stay America

Fairfield Inn & Suites

Guesthouse International Inn

Hampton Inn and Suites

Hampton Inn SW

Hampton Inn N

Hilton Fort Wayne at the Grand Wayne Center (on downtown map, page 8)

Hilton Garden Inn

Holiday Inn at IPFW & The Coliseum

Holiday Inn Express Inn & Suites

Holiday Inn Express – New Haven

Homewood Suites

Howard Johnson

Hyatt Place

La Quinta Inn & Suites

LaSalle Bed & Breakfast (on downtown map, page 8)

Lees Inn & Suites

Hotel Fort Wayne

Quality Inn

Residence Inn SW

Sleep Inn & Suites

Stay Inn Suites

Staybridge Suites

Studio Plus

TownePlace Suites

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“Our recent national Operations Conference held in Fort Wayne was a resounding success! The meeting package offered in the city was an excellent complement to our meeting needs and everything went very smoothly. We plan to return in the near future.”

— Brian Risley, SIRVA

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The Grand Wayne Convention Center is located in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne, offering guests the convenience of two attached hotels and parking garages. In addition, the attached skywalks provide easy access to the historic Embassy Theatre, our Botanical Gardens, and our brand new ballpark – Parkview Field!

What’s more – downtown Fort Wayne is the heart of our arts and culture community, with over thirteen museums and attractions located within six blocks of the Grand Wayne!

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Downtown Fort Wayne

Score Big in Fort Wayne!Spiece FieldhouseWith eight full-sized basketball courts under one roof, Spiece is one of the most sophisticated, technologically-advanced and user-friendly basketball-only facilities in the country.

Lutheran Health Sports CenterOpened in 2010 and affiliated with Canlan Ice Sports, this three-sheet facility is one of the biggest and best new ice arenas of its kind in the Midwest.

Hefner Soccer Complex and The PlexThe Hefner Soccer Complex and adjacent Plex facility offer two full-size outdoor soccer fields with grandstands adjacent to a 45,000 sq. ft. indoor multi-sport facility with seating for 500.

The Plex SouthLocated on the southwest side of Fort Wayne, The Plex South offers a 72,000 sq. ft. indoor dome, featuring a 100-yard multi-sport synthetic turf and 70’ high ceiling.

Allen County War Memorial ColiseumThe Coliseum is the largest capacity multi-use venue in the tri-state area and offers seating for 13,000 (10,500 w/ice). The Exposition Center features 108,000 sq. ft. of event space and expandable telescopic seating for 7,500.

Hefner FieldsSpiece Fieldhouse

The Plex

Lutheran Health Sports Center Allen County War Memorial Coliseum

“Location is a big advantage to hosting the events in Fort Wayne. Fort Wayne is centrally located, is easy for visitors to navigate, and there are tons of hotels to choose from. And the people in Fort Wayne love sports and know how to support them.”

— Terry Stefankiewicz, Executive Director, Shindigz

National Soccer Festivals Inc.

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Helen P. Brown NatatoriumThis 43,000 square foot, state-of-the-art, all purpose aquatic facility offers a 50 meter x 25 yard main pool, 23 short lanes, 8 long lanes, 1 and 3 meter diving boards.

Parkview FieldOpened in April 2009 and named “2009 Ballpark of the Year” by Baseball Digest, Parkview Field offers 8,100 seats and over 11,000 sq. ft. of indoor event space.

Sycamore Hills Golf ClubOne of the Midwest’s premier courses and host to several PGA championships, Sycamore Hills offers exquisite facilities and amenities on their Nicklaus-designed course. Kreager ParkOne of Fort Wayne’s finest parks and athletic facilities, Kreager Park offers four lighted softball fields, 10 soccer fields and tennis, parks and trails! In addition, they offer a new, award-winning “Boundless Playground.“

Fort Wayne also offers room for many other tournaments and sporting events, including bowling, golf, tennis and more. For additional information, or to find the perfect facility for your next event, please contact our Sports Sales Manager at 1-800-767-7752.

Lutheran Health Sports Center

Parkview Field

Helen P. Brown Natatorium

Allen County War Memorial Coliseum

Sycamore Hills Golf Club

Parkview Field

“In part due to the support of Visit Fort Wayne, the Fort Wayne Curling Club is able to host the largest summer curling tournament in the world.”

— Craig Fischer,President and Co-Founder,

Fort Wayne Curling Club

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Fort Wayne is a delightful city

with much to offer to your

attendees and guests.

From family fun and outstanding

off-site activities to arts and

entertainment, we offer

exceptional itinerary options!

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art provides world-class inspiration.

Explore three gardens and constantly changing exhibits at the Botanical Conservatory.

Science Central is Indiana’s “hands on” center for science, mathematics and technology.

The City of Restaurants offers culinary delights to please every palate.

The Philharmonic captures the sounds of our vibrant community.

The Main Street Chalk Walk is a colorful highlight of the Three Rivers Festival.

The historic Embassy Theatre welcomes you.

Get in touch with your wild side at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo.

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Uniquely Fort WayneEven though we offer a sophisticated metropolitan feel (we are Indiana’s second largest city), we are still small enough to make you feel right at home. We invite you to explore some of the things that make Fort Wayne so special. . .

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENTFrom visual and performing arts to touring Broadway shows and local dance companies, Fort Wayne is alive in art and entertainment offerings. In fact, we offer year-round performances from world-class professional groups including the Fort Wayne Philharmonic, Fort Wayne Ballet, Fort Wayne Civic Theatre and many more. Additionally, our Museum of Art, galleries and performance theaters are diverse and breathtaking.

SHOPPINGWith an outstanding combination of destination-style malls and unique, one-of-a-kind stores, Fort Wayne is a great place to shop ‘til you drop! Endless shopping opportunities await at specialty stores and big name retailers all over town. DINING AND NIGHTLIFEOffering well over 400 eateries to choose from, it is no wonder that Fort Wayne is known as the City of Restaurants. Whether you crave Coney dogs or choice steak, Fort Wayne has the recipe to please any palate. From local brewpubs to five-star cuisine, you’ll find exactly what you’re hungering for in Fort Wayne!

SPORTSFort Wayne’s sports scene is alive and kicking, with professional hockey, baseball, and basketball teams competing all year long. Or, if you’d rather get off the sidelines and onto the field, Fort Wayne offers world-class golf courses and many other top-notch recreation facilities.

FAMILY ACTIVITIESFort Wayne is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the country. In fact, our Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo has been named one of the top ten in the nation! Add to that our Science Central children’s museum, Botanical Conservatory, and dozens of other family-friendly attractions, and you’ll find fun for the whole family!

All year long, Fort Wayne’s calendar of events is full of special events and activities for you to enjoy while you are in town. For a complete listing of events and exhibits taking place during your stay, visit www.visitfortwayne.com or call 1-800-767-7752.

Take in a little beauty and inspiration at one of Fort Wayne’s many art galleries.

DeBrand Fine Chocolates offers a taste of Fort Wayne.

Discover your family tree at The Genealogy Center.

Fort Wayne is proud to be the home of Vera Bradley – beloved around the world!

The Fort Wayne Ballet dances into our hearts.

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Convention ServicesWe know Fort Wayne. From restaurants, theaters and museums, to transportation, unique off-site venues and VIP treatment, we want to help make your event the best it’s ever been.

MEETING PLANNER RESOURCES

Transportation resources – Getting around is easy. We’ll get you connected to airport shuttle, car rental, taxi, public transportation and convention shuttle companies.

Photos of Fort Wayne – Dramatically enhance your print convention materials.

A digital version of our maps – Available for your printed programs or “save the date” cards.

VIP letters of welcome – Including mayoral and city-wide welcomes for your program, customized so your group feels recognized and acknowledged.

On-Site Assistance – We offer personnel to assist with your on-site convention needs.

City Information Materials – Providing city information to your convention delegates such as maps, brochures and information on restaurants, attractions and activities.

Service Referrals and Planning Assistance – Let us be your eyes and ears when you are planning from out of town. We can provide access to community resources, arrange off-site amenities and make your job easier both before and during your event.

Off-Site Tours and Spouse Assistance – Use our custom itineraries to create a great getaway for all attendees and their guests.

Custom Group Webpages – Our informational landing pages provide housing information, directions and details in one convenient place online.

HOUSING SERVICES

For groups requiring a centralized source to manage housing, we offer 24-hour access online reservations with immediate confirmation, real time room block reports on demand, and post convention analysis – all at no cost to your group!

PROMOTING YOUR MEETING

Just a few of the ways we’ll help make your event a success include providing you with:

Visitor Guides – Our all-inclusive magazine that offers an overview of the city, local attractions, dining, and other leisure activities to assist in planning the total Fort Wayne experience.

Visitor Maps – “Tear-off and go” navigational guide to our many exciting points of interest.

Customized Maps – Available for multi-property events if you need to highlight your hotels and/or meeting and event venues.

Restaurant Maps – Directing hungry attendees in the right direction with a list of sumptuous dining options.

And more, including:• Name tags• Event calendars• City information• Promotion through www.VisitFortWayne.com• Postcards• Media promotion• And more

Whether your group is small and intimate, or includes hundreds or thousands of attendees, we can help you plan the perfect event. Call us today at 1-800-767-7752 to get started.

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

“Fort Wayne was the perfect location for our AOBA annual National Conference. The Memorial Coliseum was a first-rate user friendly facility that provided our exhibitors and attendees with numerous options and services. We would recommend this beautiful city to anyone looking for a centrally-located top notch meeting destination city!”

— Andrea HarringtonAlpaca Owners and

Breeders Association

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Acessibility

TransportationFort Wayne is centrally located within 500 miles of half the U.S. population.

Accessible by major interstate highways and an international airport, its easy to see why Fort Wayne is one of the Midwest’s most central and convenient locations.

Travelers wanting friendly, convenient, no-hassle flying will enjoy FWA – Fort Wayne International Airport. FWA airlines offer 85% jet service with direct, non-stop flights from/to: Atlanta, Chicago O’Hare, Cincinnati, Dallas, Detroit, Cleveland and more. And once you’re on the ground, we make it easy to get to your hotel—rental cars, hotel shuttles, and taxi and limo service are all readily available—and stand waiting to serve you!

Fort Wayne, Indiana is not only perfectly located and completely accessible, we are ready and waiting to host your next convention or meeting. Call us today to get started!

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

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Visit Fort Wayne927 S. Harrison StreetFort Wayne, IN 46802

VisitFortWayne.com1-800-767-7752

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