Lafayette in Indiana, which is appreciated for its contribution to manufacturing, often gets underappreciated as a tourist spot. Though the city’s historic downtown, Purdue University, and Columbian Zoo got some attention as tourist spots, these places aren’t what only Lafayette offers. Apart from this, this city has many iconic and stunning hidden gems.
Because the city itself is not famous as a tourist spot, these hidden gems are even more challenging to find. But don’t worry—I have done enough homework to share the best 14 hidden gems in Lafayette, which also includes lesser-known restaurants that you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.
Table of Contents
1. The Haan Museum of Indiana Art
Address: 920 State St, Lafayette, IN 47905
I personally think that starting your Lafayette tour by visiting the Haan Museum of Indiana Art should be ideal because it’s not just another museum where we’ll see some artifacts, but is a complete package that deserves much more recognition than it gets in Lafayette.
This museum is a historic mansion built in 1904. As you enter, you will see historically preserved furniture and artwork around. The furniture includes sofas, bedroom sets, music boxes, and clocks, which date back to the late 1800s. Just like the furniture, the artwork by famous Lafayette artisans is also something you would definitely appreciate.
Most of the paintings are made by the famous Lafayette artist T.C. Steele. Some of his work is displayed for the long term, while the museum has saved some to display only in the exhibit. This museum also has paintings and sculpture work of many other local artisans that you will surely like.
Moreover, it’s not only about the mansion, but there is also a green area behind it, which spans over 3 acres and is known as the Haan Sculpture Garden. This garden has 27 sculptures along well-curated trails that are perfect for walking and hiking. Along the trail, you will see trees and plants that are native to Indiana with signs with other non-native ones. While hiking and trails can be challenging as they go over the rocks, they are not for beginners.
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2. Art Museum of Greater Lafayette
Address: 102 S 10th St, Lafayette, IN 47905
Another place that is ideal for getting to know more about the culture of Lafayette is the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette, which was founded in 1904.
Though it is not a very big art museum, as other city art galleries are, it’s known for its active local presence and participation from the very beginning. As you enter, you will see various art forms around you, including paintings, ceramic art, jewelry, woodwork, sculptures, and others. Give yourself enough time to carefully appreciate each item in front of you. Almost every piece of art you’ll see in this museum is made by locals, and these artists also take great pride in their work.
However, the most exciting thing about this museum is its exhibits and events. They always come up with something new in their exhibits, which is really interesting, alongside the events they host, which also include public art installations. In addition to that, if you want to learn more, they also offer art classes where professionals will guide you through the art-making process. They also host different artist talks as well.
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3. Imagination Station
Address: 600 N 4th Street, Lafayette, Indiana 47901
Imagination Station is a perfect place to spend some time with your children. It is a science, engineering, mathematics, and technology (STEM Center) that kids will surely love.
There are many activities related to STEM and others, like a science room, a Lego building area, and other hands-on experiences for kids. The volunteers and staff are also super friendly and offer diverse activities for kids to enjoy and learn.
They also keep coming up with new events, and if you are a local and become a member of the center, they also arrange field trips for kids, which can be a good learning point for them.
Also Read: 15 Off-the-beaten Tourist Spots in Arlington
4. Tippecanoe County Courthouse
Address: 20 N 3rd St, Lafayette, IN 47901,
If you enjoy visiting historical landmarks and architectural buildings, this hidden gem in Lafayette is ideal for you. Tippecanoe County Courthouse is not just a government building but a piece of architectural beauty. It’s easy to avoid this building mistakenly because it’s in downtown. (But I hope you won’t miss it after reading this)
It’s a classic building that has been carefully preserved to its actual state, with the 99-foot dome that can be seen from different points of the city. It served as a courthouse and is a historical landmark for many visitors because of its architecture. Seeing this building from the outside will surely give you the feeling of being in a 1970s movie set because its architecture is rare.
If you enter the building, you will see stonework, ornate woodwork, grand staircases, stained-glass window statues, and different paintings that make this place beautiful from the inside. This building’s beauty from the outside peaked at night when different lighting systems come into play. So, whenever you are heading downtown, give this building a check. Even if it is closed, the outside part will make your visit memorable.
5. The Arts Federation
Address: 638 North St, Lafayette, IN 47901
If you want to see the work of local Lafayette artists and are a fan of different art forms, the Arts Federation should be on your list. It is an art council whose main purpose is to support art and artists through various means in 14 counties in Indiana.
As you enter the Wells Community Cultural Center, where TAF is housed, you will see three galleries displaying the work of different artists in various art styles. Give yourself time to examine the paintings on the wall, which are accompanied by display art in a different gallery, where different sculptures created by the city’s locally talented artists are placed on pedestals.
6. Historic Five Points Fire
Address: 1511 Main St, Lafayette, IN 47901
Historic Five Points Fire is an interesting and a very rare type of museum that even some locals in Lafayette need to learn about it. It’s a small fire station that was turned into a museum in the early 2000s. The museum reminds us of the tragic incident that happened in Lafayette in 1967 when a fire destroyed several homes and businesses.
It looks like an old garage-type area that has been renovated. As you go there, you’ll see a very old fire truck (smaller or equal to a car). Inside, is the iconic 1924 Athens-Fox Pumper Model J-S-4, which was considered the Rolls Royce of fire engines back in the day. The fire station had a total of five fire trucks, which were used during the days when this place was a fire station. Overall, this is a one-of-a-kind museum that surely deserves appreciation.
7. Inspired Fire Glass Studio & Gallery
Address: 2124 IN-25, Lafayette, IN 47909
A must-visit for glass art lovers, Inspired Fire Glass Studio & Gallery is a hidden gem that offers quality glass art and classes by professionals that will make the visit twice as productive.
Upon entering, you will be welcomed by the glass pieces displayed on pedestals of different sizes. The glass art on display has various sizes and purposes, like jewelry, showpieces, kitchen sets, and many more. You can just visit the gallery and purchase any piece you like.
But the best thing about this place is the art glass classes, where a professional artist will teach you how to make a glass art piece. These artists are very friendly and knowledgeable, and they are also keen to share so that we can make our desired piece.
8. Lyboult Sports Park
Address: C4H4+H6X, 1300 Canal Rd, Lafayette, IN 47904
Lyboult Sports Park is a perfect place for a family or couple’s outing. It lies alongside the Wabash River, which makes it even more stunning.
As you go there, you’ll see carefully maintained walking trails with green grass on both sides and plenty of trees. This park spans over 52 acres and is connected with other parks and similar green areas like Lafayette Cloud Jackeys North Field, McAllister Park, and so on.
As the Wabash River is connected to this park, you can spend some quality time near the river and should also snap some photos as well, especially at sunset, when this place looks way more beautiful. You can also come with your fishing rod if you like fishing. In addition to that, not far away is a bridge where you can go to have the best views of the river.
9. Murdock Park Disc Golf Course
Address: 2100 Cason St, Lafayette, IN 47904
Another place that is ideal for both families and individual golf lovers is the Murdock Park Disc Golf Course, which is not only a golf course but also a complete park.
Upon reaching the destination, you’ll see an 18-hole disc golf course featuring a semi-wooded front 9 and a more wooded back 9, which make golfing more fun in this place. After that, head to the other side of this area, as this gold course is in the famous Murdock Park.
This park is one of the best tourist destinations in Lafayette. It offers stunning natural beauty featuring different plants, trees, and flowers. The park spans over 39 acres and is covered with green grass, which makes it even more beautiful and a must-visit after golfing.
10. Fairfield Lakes Park
Address: County Roads 200 S & 750 E, Lafayette, IN 47905
If you are looking for a picnic spot to spend some time with your family, then head to Fairfield Lakes Park, as it is the best off-the-beaten picnic spot destination.
This place is close to the city area but far enough to escape the typical day-to-day hustle. Upon reaching, you will witness a green area covered with grass and trees, with 4 lakes close to each other, making this place one-of-a-kind, along with South Fork Wildcat Creek, which also flows close to the lakes.
If you like fishing, there are 2 handicapped fishing pads available, and access to a canoe is also possible. These lakes reportedly have a variety of fish, like bass, crappie, and bluegill. Don’t forget to bring your fishing license if you want to fish. For those who just want to navigate the lake and the creek, you can use a canoe.
This park also has restrooms, pavilions, and its own parking lot, which can make your picnic less stressful.
Lesser-Known Restaurants in Lafayette, Indiana
11. Sushi Don
Address: 3338 Main St, Lafayette, IN 47905
1110 Sagamore Pkwy W, West Lafayette, IN 47906
As the section on hidden gems in Lafayette is over, let’s visit some hidden gem restaurants in Lafayette that are worth visiting. If you are a fan of Japanese food, start your visit with Sushi Don, which has two locations in Lafayette.
As you enter, you will be welcomed by the warm and cozy atmosphere inside, with wooden chairs and tables like in a traditional Japanese restaurant. Their menu has unique Japanese options available, which include golden spicy tuna & cucumber, magic mushroom, sashimi deluxe, Korean style boneless chicken, gyoza, spring rolls, kimchi fries, salad, cooked and raw sushi rolls, along with vegetarian options for vegan customers, and much more to eat in an all-in Japanese restaurant. Another thing that makes this place special is its pricing, as you will find the price very reasonable for every option.
12. Sweet Revolution Bake Shop
Address: 109 N 5th St, Lafayette, IN 47901
Head to the Sweet Revolution Bake Shop if you ever crave sweet and sour bakery items. Here, you can find tasty bakery items in a variety of flavors to please customers.
As you enter the shops, you’ll feel coziness in the environment. There is a variety of freshly baked items, which include pretzels, bagels, cupcakes, cheesecakes, cookies, apple and blueberry pie, cookies, and pastries.
For those who want something savory, there are also savory pie options like corn and smoked brisket tacos. In addition, if you are vegan and like your food gluten-free, they also have this option available, so just tell them your preference.
13. Ripple & Company
Address: 1007 Main St, Lafayette, IN 47901
If you are looking for an American restaurant, then Ripple & Company is among the ideal choices. They offer food for lunch, brunch, and dinner.The interior of this restaurant is very simple yet compelling. You won’t see a lot of style work in there, but the tables and clean dining area with glass windows make the eating experience unique.
They have a variety of food items to complement each customer, which includes different taco options like cajun shrimp tacos, Korean brisket tacos, and adobo chicken tacos, which got company of various sandwiches and healthy bowls like smoked wings, bazinga, smokehouse nachos, roadhouse sandwiches, roadhouse mushroom pita, Southern fried chicken sandwich, and many other vegan-friendly options for vegetarians.
14. The Tick Tock Tavern & Family Eatery
Address: 1816 N 9th St Rd, Lafayette, IN 47904
The last on our list of hidden gem restaurants in Lafayette is the Tick Tock Tavern & Family Eatery. It is a family-owned restaurant that has been around for the past three decades.
This restaurant has two dining sections: one is outside, under the roof, with steel tables and chairs and a big LED TV, and the other is inside, with a typical American restaurant interior. The atmosphere in the restaurant is excellent, the staff is friendly and will also recommend their specialties if you want.
Don’t forget to try their tenderloins, which are among the best in the area. They also serve burgers, chicken wings, and tenders, seafood options like shrimp and filet, and a variety of other food options with good portion sizes.
FAQ’s
1. What is Lafayette, Indiana, famous for?
Lafayette is generally famous for its manufacturing rather than for travel, which helps this city’s many tourist spots to remain a hidden gem.
2. What are some must-visit attractions in Lafayette for tourists?
Lafayette’s historic downtown, Columbian Zoo, Tippecanoe battlefield, and industry areas are among the must-visit attractions for tourists.
3. What is the best month to visit Lafayette?
Summer season (especially June, July, and August) is considered the best month for visiting Lafayette.
4. Is Lafayette expensive for tourists?
No, Lafayette is typically not an expensive city like Miami or New York type cities, but how you plan your visit also matters a lot.
