Hidden Gems of Purdue and Greater Lafayette
When people first imagine Indiana, they tend to picture a very flat, corn-filled landscape. Though much of the landscape surrounding Purdue and the Greater Lafayette region is agriculture-focused, the heart of the region has much more to offer. From ice cream parlors and classic diners to relaxing walking trails and forests, there are many nearby treasures for students to experience during their time here.
At Purdue, there are tons of amazing restaurants that students often visit, especially on Sunday evenings since the dining courts are closed. The Silver Dipper is a must if you are an ice cream lover. They have TONS of flavors to try and a fun atmosphere. Triple XXX is also a Purdue classic, famous for their historic root beer. Greater Lafayette is home to a unique downtown atmosphere filled with quaint restaurants of any cuisine you can imagine.
Closer to campus, there is the Farmer’s Market that typically visits Purdue every Thursday during the fall. Local vendors bring their goods and services to Purdue for students to enjoy. Also nearby, Von’s Bookstore is a must-visit. You can spend HOURS looking through all of the books and cards, beads and trinkets, records, and more. It is a favorite among many students. Chauncey Hill, where Von’s is located, is brimming with beautiful artwork and murals along walls that are great spots to take pictures!
If you want to escape into the outdoors, then the region surrounding campus has that, too! Close to Purdue, the Horticulture Park and Celery Bog offer trails with plenty of trees and nature to delve into. The bog even has a wetland where birds, deer, and other wildlife are often seen. Happy Hollow Park and Prophetstown State Park are a bit further off campus, but the extensive trails and scenery that they both offer are worth the 10 to 20 minute drive.
For activities and outings off-campus, the Greater Lafayette region has plenty to offer. During the fall, Exploration Acres offers Northwest Indiana’s largest corn maze and pumpkin patch. There is also the Wea Creek Orchard for apple-picking and delicious apple cider slushies. If you enjoy art, the Haan Museum of Indiana Art has extensive collections of pieces from Indiana artists along with a nature trail littered with sculptures. Lafayette also has a Frank Lloyd Wright house, called Samara House, that is open for public tours. Lastly, the Columbian Park Zoo is a favorite for many students. They have a variety of smaller animals, and many students go to pet and feed the goats!
Purdue and Greater Lafayette offer students many places and activities to enjoy and experience. There is something for everyone to love, so make sure to take a study break and visit one of them when you come to Purdue!
Written by: Brittany Kent (Agricultural Engineering 2021) and Anjali Pursai (Computer Engineering 2022)
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