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Discovering West Lafayette, Indiana: A 5-Day Itinerary

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West Lafayette, Indiana is a vibrant city located in Tippecanoe County, Indiana. It is home to Purdue University, which is known for its academic excellence and research programs. West Lafayette has a rich history, and there are many attractions that visitors can enjoy while exploring the city.

Discovering West Lafayette, Indiana: A 5-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration


Upon arrival in West Lafayette, check into your hotel and spend the day exploring the city. Start your day with a visit to Purdue University, which is one of the main attractions of West Lafayette. Take a guided tour of the campus and learn about the history of the university and its academic programs. Visit the Purdue University Libraries, which is one of the largest academic libraries in the world.

Next, head to the Lilly Nature Center, which is a beautiful park located in the heart of West Lafayette. Take a stroll along the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. The park is home to several species of birds and animals, and it is a great place for birdwatching.

In the evening, head to the Wabash Landing, which is a popular entertainment district in West Lafayette. The area is known for its restaurants, bars, and shops. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area and then head to a bar for a drink.

Craving Chinese food? They have an abundance of Chinese restaurants. One of my favorites is Sichuan House.

Flying High Tea

Love drinking tea? Unrivaled in the Midwest, Flying High Tea has become the go-to downtown destination for delicious food and a vast selection of international teas. No reservation is required! With 108 different kinds of teas, you’re bound to find one you like. Not only can you enjoy tea from their tea bar, but you can also purchase a blend from their tea wall. They also have gift-worthy teapots, tea infusers, and other items for sale to make the tea experience even more special.

The area is lively and bustling, and there is always something to see and do.

Day 2: Museums and History


Start your day with a visit to the Tippecanoe County Historical Association Museum. The museum is located in a historic mansion and features exhibits on the history of the area. Learn about the Native American tribes that once lived in the area and the early settlers who founded West Lafayette.

Next, head to the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, which is located in downtown Lafayette. The museum features a collection of American art, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.

In the afternoon, head to the Columbian Park Zoo, which is located in Lafayette. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. The zoo also has a petting zoo and a playground, making it a great place to visit with children.

In the evening, head to the Long Center for the Performing Arts, which is a beautiful theater located in downtown Lafayette. The theater hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, including plays, concerts, and dance performances. Like murals? They have plenty of interesting murals. Some murals are located in the most unlikely places!

Day 3: Outdoor Activities


Start your day with a visit to the Celery Bog Nature Area, which is a beautiful park located in West Lafayette. The park is home to several species of birds and animals, and it is a great place for hiking and birdwatching. The park also has a nature center, which features exhibits on the natural history of the area.
Next, head to the Prophetstown State Park, which is located in Lafayette. The park is home to several hiking trails, a campground, and a water park. Take a hike along the trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

In the evening, head to the Wolf Park, which is located in Battle Ground, just outside of West Lafayette. The park is home to several species of wolves and other animals, and it offers tours and educational programs. The park also hosts special events throughout the year, so be sure to check the schedule before your visit.

Day 4: Shopping and Dining


Start your day with a visit to the Purdue Farmers Market, which is held on Saturdays from May to November. The market features locally grown produce, handmade crafts, and artisanal food products. Take a stroll through the market and pick up some souvenirs to take home with you.

Next, head to the Wabash Riverfront, which is a beautiful area located along the Wabash River. The area features walking trails, a playground, and a splash pad, making it a great place to spend an afternoon. The area is also home to several restaurants and shops, so you can grab a bite to eat or do some shopping while you’re there.

In the evening, head to the Lafayette Brewing Company, which is a popular brewery located in downtown Lafayette. The brewery features a variety of craft beers and delicious pub food. Take a tour of the brewery and learn about the brewing process, or simply relax with a cold beer and enjoy the atmosphere.

Day 5: Day Trip to Indianapolis


If you have an extra day to spare, consider taking a day trip to Indianapolis, which is located about an hour and a half from West Lafayette. Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana, and it is home to several attractions that are worth visiting.

Start your day with a visit to the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which is a world-class art museum located on a beautiful 152-acre campus. The museum features a collection of over 54,000 works of art, including paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.

Next, head to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, which is home to the famous Indy 500 race. Take a tour of the speedway and learn about the history of the race and the track. You can also visit the Hall of Fame Museum, which features a collection of race cars and other memorabilia.

In the afternoon, head to the Indianapolis Zoo, which is home to over 1,200 animals from around the world. The zoo features several exhibits, including a dolphin show and a butterfly garden. The zoo also has a petting zoo and a playground, making it a great place to visit with children.

In the evening, head to the Fountain Square Cultural District, which is a vibrant area located in downtown Indianapolis. The area is known for its restaurants, bars, and live music venues. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants in the area, and then head to a bar or music venue for a drink and some live entertainment.

Overall, West Lafayette, Indiana, and the surrounding area offer a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, you’re sure to find something that appeals to you in this charming city.


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Lesha

HilLesha O'Nan resides in Newburgh, Indiana with her husband and 3 children. She's a lifestyle blogger that enjoys photography, fashion + beauty, traveling + adventure, gardening, and interior decorating.

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Hello! I’m HilLesha, and I live in Newburgh, Indiana, with my husband and 3 children. I love photography, fashion, beauty, home improvement, traveling, cooking, and wellness. Additional info. Please get in touch with me at Lesha@tothemotherhood.com.

I’m also the founder of The Beauty Counter.

 



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