Lafayette IN is a college town with deep historical roots. It offers a wide variety of fun things to do, from outdoor attractions to museums and galleries.
The Art Museum of Greater Lafayette is northwest Indiana’s premier art repository. It features a varied collection of paintings, sculptures, and jewelry. You’ll also find amazing Inuit carvings and intriguing Mexican art.
Wildcat Creek Park
Wildcat Creek Park on Eisenhower Road is a good place to launch kayaks for trips on the south fork of the river. This is a popular destination for families as well as experienced paddlers. There are 2 handicap-fishing pads on the northwest lake and a paved walkway from the parking lot to the water.
A wide variety of wildlife can be seen in the Park, including deer and raccoons by day and coyotes at night. Beavers, squirrels and rabbits are often spotted in the forest and meadows. There are also foxes, gopher snakes and western racers. The paved Nimitz Way is popular with hikers, mountain bikers and equestrians.
People’s Brewing Company
People’s Brewing Company was founded with a simple mission: “Beer for the People.” This mantra can be seen everywhere, from their logo to the weekly music acts they host. They also sponsor local baseball, biking, and recreational hockey teams.
This brewery has a cosy atmosphere, and its staff are energetic. Its beer is delicious, and the prices are low. The place is recommended by many reviews.
Lafayette is a quiet town with Purdue University and a few other businesses, but it has a unique vibe that shines with Hoosier hospitality. It’s a place that welcomes everyone, from college students to retirees. Its residents have a strong sense of community pride and are proud of their city.
Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art
Located in the historic Ninth Street Hill Neighborhood, Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art is a non-profit organization that offers exhibits and educational activities throughout the year. The museum features collections of 19th and 20th century American art with a focus on Indiana artists.
The museum houses a collection of paintings, ceramics and antique furniture. It also has an impressive sculpture garden and a nature trail. Guests can view the largest collection of Hoosier Group and Indiana Regionalism artwork in the world here including paintings by T.C Steele and Brown County Art Colony artists.
The museum is open Wednesday to Saturday from 1-4 PM. It is free to visit.
Tippecanoe Battlefield Park
One of the most important locations in American military history is a short drive from downtown Lafayette. This National Historic Landmark commemorates the November 7, 1811 Battle of Tippecanoe fought between Indiana Territorial Governor William Henry Harrison’s forces and Tecumseh’s Shawnee-led Native American confederation under the temporary leadership of Tenskwatawa.
A towering white obelisk monument marks the site of the battle and a museum offers an interpretive focus on the battle, early settlement and nineteenth century Native American life styles. The museum also provides a deeper context for the American Indian resistance movement that led to these conflicts and the War of 1812. Programming is provided by the Tippecanoe County Historical Association.
Wea Creek Orchard
The Wea Creek Orchard is a family-owned farm that provides apples, peaches and pumpkins for U-pick as well as jellies, butters, apple cider, and honey from their bees. It also hosts weddings and other community events!
They have a great variety of apples and the owners are very friendly! They stay current on their Facebook page with a list of what is ripe for picking. Once you finish your pick, they weigh your bag and you’re done!
They also have a peach lemonade slushy and apple cider in their shop and sell preserves. They host field trips and educational opportunities too! They recently added a lavender field for guests to enjoy.
Monster Mini Golf
Monster Mini Golf is a unique indoor entertainment center that offers a thrilling experience for all ages. It features an 18 hole golf course with a monster theme, a high-tech arcade, laser tag, and a zombie paintball arena. The place also offers various party packages that include mini golf, arcade tokens, pizza, and drinks.
The facility is decorated with imaginative sculptures and murals of monsters, aliens, and other creatures. The holes are surrounded by black lights, creating an atmosphere that is both spooky and fun.