For those who, or whose families, want to explore beyond the Grand Wayne Convention Center, we will have a variety of opportunities to get out into the surrounding areas. We are working on several tours that will meet a variety of interests and time commitments. The tours will carry fees that will be able to be paid as part of your registration and that will include transportation to and from the venue and any entry fees.

Descriptions of the tours, as well as locations and costs, will be listed on this page as they are confirmed. We will also share information on the convention Facebook page. Leave times and locations will be posted here and on the Schedule on this site.

We also plan to list a few sites and events you can explore on your own, such as a Tin Caps baseball game. Fort Wayne's minor league team, which has a stadium adjacent to the Hampton Inn & Suites, is currently scheduled for home games every day of the convention.

Looking forward to meeting some of you and hitting the road with you.

John Figueroa
Tours Coordinator/Convention Chair
2026_chair@ipmsusa.org

Events and Tours

Tours

Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg Museum (ACD) and the National Auto & Truck Museum (NATMUS)

This tour will be for both the Auburn, Cord, Duesenberg Museum (ACD) and the National Auto & Truck Museum (NATMUS), co-located in Auburn, IN, about 30 minutes north of the Convention Center. We will have a food truck, Who Cut the Cheese, on site for our guests to purchase lunch. NATMUS will open a covered bay with tables and chairs for our guests to enjoy their lunch out of the sun.

Two 56-person buses are scheduled to leave the convention center at 8:30 AM on Thursday August 6, 2026, and return to the convention center at 4:30 PM.

The ACD Museum offers a unique opportunity to experience automotive history firsthand. These classic vehicles not only showcase stunning Art Deco design and innovative engineering, but they also tell the stories of American ambition and craftsmanship during the golden age of motoring. Visiting the museum allows you to appreciate the elegance, luxury, and technological breakthroughs that set these marques apart, making it a must-see for car enthusiasts and history lovers alike.         

NATMUS showcases an impressive collection of vintage trucks, automobiles, and commercial vehicles, offering visitors a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of transportation. You’ll discover beautifully restored vehicles from different eras, including rare models and classic cars that highlight American ingenuity and craftsmanship. Its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff ensure an enjoyable visit for all. 

Among the highlights of NATMUS is Futureliner No. 10. General Motors built 12 Futurliners, out of which four are in unknown hands. At least 3 of the remaining 8, including No. 10, are restored to their original condition.

Introduced by General Motors for its Parade of Progress in the 1940s and 1950s, the Futureliner featured a striking, streamlined Art Deco body, massive chrome grille, and a futuristic bubble cockpit. It served as a mobile stage, showcasing cutting-edge technology and GM’s vision for the future, making it both a rolling exhibit and an icon of automotive history. It is an unusual coincidence that in the original Parade of Progress, Futureliner No. 10 showcased the “Opportunity for Youth” exhibit, which included winning model cars from the Fisher Body Craftsman's Guild contest. We are also excited to announce that NATMUS has agreed to allow our tour guests the opportunity to ascend into the cockpit for a photo op.

The Who Cut the Cheese Food Truck, a popular mobile eatery based in Fort Wayne, will be on site for at least two hours, from 11 AM to 1 PM, to offer our guests a chance to enjoy a unique lunch. Celebrated for its creative and delicious takes on classic comfort food and specializing in gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches, the truck offers a variety of cheesy delights from traditional melts to inventive combinations featuring local ingredients. Customers rave about the rich flavors and generous portions, while the truck’s playful branding adds to its charm. Nora’s favorite is the Three Little Pigs sandwich. John's go-to sandwich is the Momma Mia. Whatever is that you order, we are sure you will be pleasantly surprised at how yummy the offerings.

Event Date(s)
-
Cost
Paid
Amount
$ 55.00
ACD

Historic Embassy Theater

Touring the Embassy Theatre in Fort Wayne is a must for anyone interested in history, architecture, and the performing arts. This iconic venue, originally opened in 1928, is a stunning example of early twentieth century theater design, featuring intricate murals, ornate chandeliers, and lavish décor that transport you back to the golden age of entertainment. Embassy Theater

The theater hosts a wide range of events, from Broadway shows and concerts to community gatherings, making it a vibrant cultural hub for the city. Guided tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at the stage, dressing rooms, and historic pipe organ, providing insights into the technical and artistic aspects of live theater production. 

Each tour will last about 45 minutes and provide a "behind the scenes" look at the theatre that will be unforgettable.

Whether you're a history buff, an architecture enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique experience, the Embassy Theatre's rich heritage and grand ambiance make it an unforgettable destination during your visit to Fort Wayne.Embassy Theater lobby

Event Date(s)
-
-
-
-
Cost
Paid
Amount
$ 10.00
Embassy Theater

Sweetwater Sound

If you're a music lover, our Sweetwater tour should be high on your list. Sweetwater is not just a massive music store, it's an experience. The campus features an incredible selection of musical instruments, audio gear, and recording equipment, all housed in a state-of-the-art facility. Beyond shopping, you can immerse yourself in interactive demo rooms and expert workshops. The staff are knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely passionate about helping you find the perfect gear for your needs.Sweetwater Sound

Sweetwater also boasts a café, beautiful outdoor spaces, and a recording studio, making it a perfect spot for both seasoned musicians and curious newcomers. Whether you're looking to upgrade your setup, learn something new, or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, Sweetwater offers a welcoming environment with something for everyone. A visit here is sure to inspire creativity and spark your musical journey.

The Drum Store

The bus leaves the convention center on Friday, August 7, at 9:30 AM. The guided tour will begin at 10 a.m. and last about 45 minutes. There will be an optional drum circle at 11 a.m. You can spend your time exploring the campus, shopping, or grabbing a bite to eat at one of the three restaurants (not included in the tour fee). The bus will return to the Convention center at 2:30 p.m.

Food is not included in the tour price, but there are three options for dining:

Downbeat Diner: A cafeteria-style restaurant featuring made-from-scratch specialties. It includes several food stations offering entrees, pizza, sandwiches, and soups.

Salad Bar: Highly regarded by visitors, the salad bar is generally open for lunch every day except Sunday.

Crescendo Café: An on-campus coffee shop offering lattes, local baked goods, chocolates, and ice cream.

Event Date(s)
-
Cost
Paid
Amount
$ 20.00
Sweetwater Sound

TinCaps baseball game

If you’re looking for an unforgettable baseball experience, you should definitely catch a TinCaps game at Parkview Field. The TinCaps, a Minor League Baseball team, offer an exciting game day atmosphere that’s perfect for family fun. Parkview Field itself is a modern, beautifully maintained stadium located directly across the street from the convention center. The TinCaps will be playing the West Michigan Whitecaps (Grand Rapids) on Friday, which is also “Star Wars” day at the park and they will have post-game fireworks for the family to enjoy. We have secured 50 seats in section 112, right along the third base line, between home plate and third base. Seat location

Parkview Field is known for its welcoming environment, affordable tickets, and excellent amenities, including delicious concessions and fun between-inning entertainment. The stadium features great views from every seat, so you’re never far from the action. TinCaps baseball

Visiting a TinCaps game is more than just watching baseball, it’s about creating lasting memories while enjoying one of the best minor league experiences in the country. Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement!

Event Date(s)
-
Cost
Paid
Amount
$ 14.00
Parkview Field