Lafayette IN has a lush natural environment, an exciting culture, a rich history and delicious food. It is also home to the famous Purdue University.
Downtown offers a wide variety of bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Moreover, it is also the home to Columbian Park Zoo.
Haan Mansion
Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art, a stunning home and museum, showcases the art of Indiana artists. It is located in a historic building that originally served as the Connecticut Pavilion at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. It is one of only 15 buildings that survived the World’s Fair and was designed to be dismantled and moved after the fair. The collection consists of ceramics, furniture, and paintings. The museum also houses the largest collection Hoosier Group paintings of TC Steele.
Bob and Ellie Haan bought the mansion in 1984 and began collecting art from Indiana artists. Soon, they realized they had an extensive collection of Indiana art and began to offer tours. In 2014, they expanded the collection to include Indiana ceramics. Visitors can enjoy the ceramics and paintings, as well as a sculpture garden and a nature trail. This is a must-see place for any Indiana art lover.
Art Museum of Greater Lafayette
Art Museum of Greater Lafayette’s mission is to use collections, exhibitions and programs to demonstrate the power of art in inspiring, challenging and educating our community. Founded in 1909, the Museum began as the Lafayette Art Association with the purpose of “stimulating and encouraging interest in art by giving annual exhibitions and establishing and maintaining permanent collections.”
The Museum’s main gallery is home to rotating exhibitions, while a selection of works are always on view. Permanent collection galleries include Prisker Ceramics, Alice Baber Midwest Modern Art and Edward Stowe Akeley Collection. On the premises, there is also a Children’s Activity area and a Museum Store.
Small but fun to explore, multiple galleries to view, and staff was friendly. Love the Indiana items in their gift shop. Also, they have a cute pig and frog in their parking lot. Great resource for the community!
Fort Ouiatenon
In 1717, the French established a fur trading outpost along the Wabash River four miles southwest of Lafayette. The French named it Ouiatenon – a transliteration from the Wea tribe name for the village located across the river.
The site became a center of commerce and helped the French hold sway in what would become Indiana. The site was also used to prevent violence between Europeans and tribes.
Today, a reconstructed fort marks this spot. It is open for tours and hosts the Feast of the Hunter’s Moon each early autumn, a reenactment of a gathering between Native Americans and the French.
The Fort Ouiatenon Park also features a replica blockhouse. The architecture of the fort is based not on records but on what was actually there. It is a National Historic Landmark and the park’s curator says “it finally has the recognition it deserves.” The fort was rediscovered in 1967 when a farmer tilled a field and uncovered a charred outline of a palisade.
Murdock Park
Whether you’re moving to Lafayette to study at Purdue University or visiting on a weekend getaway, staying in one of the apartments for rent in the area will give you access to plenty of fun activities. Some of them are free while others will require a minimal fee.
The Greater Lafayette Museum of Art, located on 10th Street, has some amazing pieces. There are also a variety of free events held at the museum.
Those with kids can head over to Munger Park on Greenbush Street and take advantage of the park’s free annual Kids Fishing Day. This event allows kids three to 14 years old to go fishing at a special pond in the park. There is also a 1 mile paved path, a grill, a multi-age playground and an open green area with wildflowers. There’s a pond for those who wish to cast their line (fishing license required). The park also has public restrooms.