Located 125 miles southeast of Chicago, Lafayette, Indiana, is a bustling city that is rich in national history and a wide array of cultures. Named for the famous French general and revolutionary war hero Marquis de Lafayette, the city was founded in 1825 on the bank of the Wabash River.
Lafayette is the birthplace of Guns N’ Roses lead vocalist Axl Rose and was the city where the chicken nugget was invented in 1963. Nearby West Lafayette is the location of Purdue University, which is home to nearly 35,000 undergraduate students.
From historical culture to education, music, and American foods, Lafayette is a city worth visiting for these reasons and many more.
As you set out to plan your trip, be sure to refer to this post with all the best things to do in Lafayette, Indiana. From historic parks, the Indiana art scene, hiking trails, and an exciting downtown area, here’s what to do in Lafayette.
TLDR
- Most significant landmark – Tippecanoe Battlefield Park
- Best park – Columbian Park
- Best free activity – Clegg Memorial Garden
- Best activity for kids – Tropicanoe Cove
- Best activity for adults – Climb Lafayette
- Best food – People’s Brewing Co.
- Best nightlife – Wildcat Creek Winery
- Best all-around accommodation – The Whittaker Inn
Best & Fun Things to do in Lafayette, IN
From fun attractions to nature trails, the historic Wabash River, and Purdue University in West Lafayette, the sights in Lafayette offer both a scenic natural space and a busy downtown area. Here are the best things to do in Lafayette, Indiana.
1. Columbian Park Zoo
Address: 1915 Scott St, Lafayette, IN 47904
Founded in 1908, the Columbian Park Zoo is home to a large number of animals and city history. What began as a public park in the 1870s has become an important landmark in Lafayette, Indiana.
Explore the various exhibits at the zoo based on the animals’ location; the Americas feature wildlife like bald eagles, river otters, a tortoise, and prairie dogs. Visit the Australian outback and interact with wallabies, emus, kookaburra, and singing dogs.
Walk through the Butterfly Garden Party (open Memorial Day through Labor Day) and experience the beauty and wonder of all the different species in one place. Hop aboard the Columbia Park Zoo Express and enjoy a ride through Columbian Park! The train runs from mid-April through mid-October, and tickets are $2 per rider. Want to stay near Columbian Park, the zoo, trails, and more?
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