If you take the time to wander off campus, the city of Lafayette offers a few things that might be of interest. If you are lucky enough to have a car (or a friend who has a car), here are some things you can do to get away from campus.
Riverside Skating Center – In the winter months, this ice rink is a popular spot for college students. Grab a friend or a date and $3 for skate rentals and brave the ice. Although small, this ice rink is very well maintained and will gives off Sweden vibes. Afterwards, grab some hot chocolate from the nearby Starbucks.
Trampoline Park – If you are feeling sporty, you can go to one of Lafayette’s indoor trampoline parks and bounce for 1- or 2-hour sessions. Jumping is great exercise and in turn can be a great way to relieve ENGR team member frustrations or exam stress. You get to keep the snazzy socks too.
Tippecanoe Mall – This shopping mall is the best (and only) place to get your name brand fashions in Lafayette. While this mall is rather lackluster compared to most, it does have many stores and all the brands you are familiar with. Also, they have a Cinnabon.
Columbian Park – This park has it all! If you want a day at the park, this is your spot. It has multi level playgrounds, picnic tables, a nice pond, and a train that goes around the park. There is free parking all the way around the park.
Columbian Park Zoo – Columbian Park also has a small Zoo. And better yet, it’s free! You can enter into the Wallaby enclosure, pet goats, and see the mini butterfly garden. They also have a Zoo gift shop so you can buy something to remember your trip.
Tropicanoe Cove – This waterpark is located in Columbian Park and has three waterslides and a lazy river. Bring sunscreen and some quarters for the lockers and cool off at the pool. This waterpark has two brand new water slides so go check it out between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Happy Hallow – This Park is located just off of Purdue and River Road and has a few paved trails you can enjoy. People often walk their dogs or go for their morning runs here. They also have a playground if you are feeling young again.
Hike the Wabash Heritage Trail – If you enjoy walking or biking, you can follow this paved trail around West Lafayette and Lafayette. The trail starts, or ends, at Happy Hallow Park and goes all the way along the Wabash River.
Merlin’s Beard – Calling all board game players. At this spot in Downtown Lafayette, you can pay $5 and have access to 100+ popular board games! And if you don’t know how to play, the staff loves to give demonstrations to get you going. They also serve snacks and sandwiches.
Exploration Acres – If you are willing to drive 25 mins, this large farm will give the perfect Indiana autumn experience. They typically have a themed corn maze, pumpkin patch, hot apple cider, pumpkin related games, hay rides, and a farm gift shop where you can buy pumpkin rolls, maple candy, homemade candles, and more. Check out their website in the fall to learn more about their hours and annual events.
No comments:
Post a Comment