Arts United Center - Image 1
1 / 10

Arts United Center Fort Wayne

4.7
·265 reviews·Fort Wayne, United States

Fort Wayne's premier performing arts venue, hosting ballet, theatre, concerts, and more. A vibrant cultural hub undergoing modernization.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Holiday Season

Festive spirit and 'The Nutcracker'

CrowdHigh
Loading map...
Arts United Center - Image 1

Arts United Center Fort Wayne

Best Time

Holiday Season

Festive spirit and 'The Nutcracker'

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Fort Wayne's premier performing arts venue, hosting ballet, theatre, concerts, and more. A vibrant cultural hub undergoing modernization.

4.7
(265 reviews)

"A beautiful performing arts center in Fort Wayne with a wide variety of shows and activities."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Renovation Status

Confirm reopening dates post-renovation before booking.

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'The Nutcracker' or touring acts.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Fort Wayne Ballet's The Nutcracker

Fort Wayne Ballet's The Nutcracker

Arts United Center

Experience the magic of this holiday classic brought to life by talented dancers and live music. A must-see during the festive season.

Instagram+1
Fort Wayne Civic Theatre Productions

Fort Wayne Civic Theatre Productions

Arts United Center

Enjoy family-friendly theatrical performances with great talent, from beloved musicals to engaging plays.

Instagram+1
Diverse Performing Arts

Diverse Performing Arts

Arts United Center

From touring artists like Blue Man Group to local talent, discover a wide array of shows and activities.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Renovations & Reopening

The Arts United Center is undergoing significant renovations to modernize its facilities. While temporarily closed, it's preparing for a grand reopening. Check their official channels for the latest updates on dates and new features before planning your visit. Instagram

Event Variety & Booking

This venue hosts a diverse range of performances, from ballet and theatre to concerts and special events. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular shows like 'The Nutcracker' or touring acts, to secure your preferred seats. Instagram+1

Best Times

When
Holiday Season
Why
Festive spirit and 'The Nutcracker'
Crowd
High
When
Weekends
Why
Most performances scheduled
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday Evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, special events
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

United Center came through! 380 pp for everything!
@hey_its_liz20
174.7K likes • 2.8M views

Check Renovation Status

Confirm reopening dates post-renovation before booking. Instagram+1

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'The Nutcracker' or touring acts. Instagram+1

The pit tickets are WORTH IT. Trust me. #itsallablurtour #draketour #unitercenter #chicago #drake #fyp
@shelbystocker
35.2K likes • 167.4K views
The Fort Wayne Civic Theatre proudly presents ❄️Disney’s FROZEN❄️ at the Arts United Center! Set in the beautiful mountainous kingdom of Arendelle, FROZEN tells the story of royal sisters Elsa and Anna, who are torn apart by Elsa’s icy powers. When Elsa sets Arendelle into eternal winter, Anna seeks to save her sister and sets off on an epic journey to find Elsa and bring her home – with the help...
fwcivictheatre
196 likes • 5.1K views

Explore the Lounge

The downstairs lounge is a popular pre-show hangout; more seating is being added. Reddit

Parking Tips

On-street parking and a garage are available, but the garage elevator closes at 10 PM. Reddit

“You're not just investing in an organization, you're investing in our future leaders. That's what this campus does. It builds pillars in the community.” - Trinell Armour, Fort Wayne Ballet parent Our community's theatre is more than a shared space. The Arts United Center sparks creativity, establishes lifelong connections, and fosters a sense of belonging–all built by and for people who live and...
artsunitedgfw
35 likes • 843 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Renovation Status

Confirm reopening dates post-renovation before booking. Instagram+1

Book Tickets Early

Popular shows sell out fast! Secure your spot for 'The Nutcracker' or touring acts. Instagram+1

Explore the Lounge

The downstairs lounge is a popular pre-show hangout; more seating is being added. Reddit

Parking Tips

On-street parking and a garage are available, but the garage elevator closes at 10 PM. Reddit

Arts District Location

Conveniently located in the Arts District, walkable to other attractions. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(265 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Arts United Center for its beautiful and clean facilities, as well as its friendly and helpful staff. The variety of performances, from ballet to touring shows, is a major draw, making it a beloved venue for the arts in Fort Wayne. Some minor points of improvement include the need for more seating in the popular downstairs lounge and awareness of parking garage hours.

"The building was clean and beautiful. The staff were so helpful and friendly. The ballet was a joy to witness. I would highly recommend anyone looking for an amazing show to check out the Arts United Center!"

Jenny Anderson

"We saw the Blue Man group and had a great time! It's a really beautiful theater and we love the lounge downstairs. I definitely think they could use more seating down there because it's becoming a popular place to hang out before the show!"

Kristin Steffen

"Beautiful performing arts center in Fort Wayne. A wide variety of shows and activities here.

There is on street parking and a garage across the street but the (bank) door/elevator entrance closes at 10 pm and then you will have to walk up the ramps to get to your car 🚗"

Kelly Miller

What People Like

Beautiful and clean venue
Helpful and friendly staff
Diverse range of performances

What People Dislike

Limited lounge seating
Garage elevator closing time

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Arts United Center is located in downtown Fort Wayne's Arts District. It's easily accessible by car, with on-street parking and a parking garage nearby. Public transportation options may also be available. Reddit

Yes, there is on-street parking and a parking garage across the street. Be aware that the garage elevator closes at 10 PM, requiring you to use ramps after that time. Reddit

Absolutely! The Arts United Center is situated in the Arts District, making it a convenient starting point to explore other nearby attractions on foot. Reddit

For visitors coming from further afield, flying into Fort Wayne International Airport (FWA) and then taking a taxi or rideshare service to the Arts United Center is a common option. Driving is also feasible if you're coming from nearby states. Reddit

Information on specific public transport routes serving the Arts United Center can be found on the Fort Wayne public transit website. It's advisable to check their schedules and routes in advance. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be purchased through the official website of the performing organization (e.g., Fort Wayne Ballet, Fort Wayne Civic Theatre) or through designated ticketing partners like artstix.org. Instagram

The Arts United Center is currently undergoing renovations and preparing for a grand reopening. Specific operating hours will be announced closer to the reopening date. It's best to check their official website for the most current information. Instagram

Discounts may be available for students, seniors, or group bookings, depending on the specific performance. Check with the ticketing organization or the Arts United Center's official website for details. Instagram

Refund and exchange policies vary by event and ticketing agent. It's crucial to review the terms and conditions at the time of purchase or contact the box office directly for clarification. Instagram

While some tickets may be available at the door, it's highly recommended to purchase tickets in advance, especially for popular performances, to avoid disappointment. Instagram

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Arts United Center hosts a diverse range of performances, including ballet, theatre, concerts, and touring shows. It's a hub for various artistic expressions in Fort Wayne. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, there is a lounge downstairs that serves as a popular spot before shows. Reviews suggest it's becoming quite popular, and more seating is being added. Reddit

Seating arrangements can vary depending on the performance. For concerts, some TikTok videos show views from various sections, including higher seats with a good overview. TikTok+1

Yes, the venue hosts family-friendly productions like 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang' and Disney's 'Frozen,' making it a great option for family outings. InstagramReddit

The venue is described as clean and beautiful, with a welcoming atmosphere. It's a wonderful place to experience the arts and connect with the community. InstagramReddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are prohibited during live performances to avoid disturbing the artists and other audience members. Check the specific event's policy or venue guidelines. TikTok

The Arts United Center itself is architecturally interesting, and the lobby or common areas might offer good photo opportunities before or after a show. Instagram+1

For concert photography, seats with a clear, unobstructed view are ideal. Some TikTok users have shared views from various sections, highlighting that even higher seats can offer a great perspective. TikTok+1

Often, you can take photos of the empty stage or the venue's interior before the performance begins, but always be mindful of any posted signage or staff instructions. Instagram

The Arts United Center has a history and architectural significance. Its campus and interior spaces, especially during renovations or before redesigns, can be quite photogenic. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Arts United Center is a fantastic destination for families. They regularly host family-friendly productions, such as Disney's 'Frozen' and the musical 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,' ensuring entertainment for all ages. InstagramReddit The venue's location in the Arts District also makes it easy to combine a show with other family activities in downtown Fort Wayne. Planning ahead and booking tickets for popular shows like 'The Nutcracker' is recommended to secure good seats for the whole family. Instagram

🎭 Arts Enthusiasts & Culture Seekers

For those passionate about the performing arts, the Arts United Center offers a rich and diverse program. As a central hub for organizations like the Fort Wayne Ballet and Fort Wayne Civic Theatre, it provides a consistent stream of high-quality performances. Instagram+1 Exploring the venue's schedule will reveal everything from classical ballet and theatrical dramas to contemporary music and touring acts. Its location in the Arts District also means you can immerse yourself in the city's cultural offerings. Reddit

📅 Day-Trippers & Visitors

If you're visiting Fort Wayne for the day, the Arts United Center is a perfect addition to your itinerary. Its central location in the Arts District allows you to easily combine a performance with visits to other nearby attractions. Reddit Consider checking the schedule for evening shows to cap off your day of exploration. Remember to factor in parking, as the garage elevator has an early closing time. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Hub for Fort Wayne's Arts Scene

The Arts United Center is more than just a venue; it's a cornerstone of Fort Wayne's cultural landscape. It serves as a home for various performing arts organizations, including the Fort Wayne Ballet and the Fort Wayne Civic Theatre. This collaborative environment fosters a vibrant arts community, offering a diverse array of programming throughout the year. Instagram+1

Historically, the building has been a significant part of the city's arts district. While it has undergone renovations to modernize its facilities, its legacy as a central hub for creativity and performance remains. Visitors can expect a wide range of events, from classical ballet and theatrical productions to contemporary music concerts and touring shows. Instagram+1

Its location in the heart of downtown Fort Wayne makes it easily accessible and walkable to other attractions, further cementing its role as a cultural anchor. The center aims to inspire creativity, build connections, and foster a sense of belonging for all who visit. InstagramReddit

Navigating Your Visit: Parking and Amenities

When planning your visit to the Arts United Center, understanding the parking situation is key. The venue offers on-street parking and a parking garage located across the street. However, it's important to note that the garage's elevator closes at 10 PM, meaning you'll need to use the ramps to access your vehicle after that time. Reddit

Inside the venue, the downstairs lounge has become a popular spot for patrons to gather before shows. Reviews indicate that it's a great place to relax and socialize, and the venue is responding to its popularity by adding more seating. This area contributes to the overall welcoming atmosphere of the center. Reddit

Beyond parking and lounges, the Arts United Center is situated within the Arts District, making it a convenient location for exploring other downtown Fort Wayne attractions before or after your event. This walkability enhances the overall visitor experience. Reddit

Experiencing Performances: Views and Tips

The Arts United Center hosts a variety of performances, and understanding the seating can enhance your experience. While specific seat numbers vary by event, TikTok videos offer glimpses into the seat views from different sections. Some users have shared their perspectives from higher vantage points, noting that they still provide a good overview of the stage and the entire venue. TikTok+2

For concert-goers, securing pit tickets is often highlighted as a worthwhile investment for an immersive experience, though these can be pricier. TikTok Regardless of your seating choice, the venue aims to provide an engaging experience. For popular shows like 'The Nutcracker' or major concerts, booking tickets well in advance is strongly advised to ensure you get the best available seats. Instagram+1

When attending, remember that photography and videography are typically restricted during performances to ensure an enjoyable experience for all attendees. TikTok Always check the venue's specific policies for each event. Instagram

You may also like