I was thrilled to receive an email from a community member (Big thanks to Jason!) sharing all the cool things there are to do in Bloomfield. Everyone always wants to go to the big cities, but these small communities are so worth a visit. 

If you’re already in Indianapolis or the immediate surrounding area I encourage you to consider taking the short drive to Bloomfield to spend the day or longer.

10 Things To See and Do in Bloomfield, Indiana

America’s Longest Railroad Trestle (aka the Tulip Trestle)

This is an amazing structure that now has an observation area with lots of great views. The trestle is 2,307 feet long and 157 feet tall steel-girded railroad trestle and is one the longest of this type of bridge in the world still in use today by the Indiana Railroad Company. Located near the Tulip Community.

World’s Largest Jack

This was a gift to the Bloomfield Jack Factory from their supplier in Europe. The cast iron replica jack is 20 ft. tall and weighs in at 2,980-pounds. Located at West Spring St. in Bloomfield outside the factory.

Gnome Village

A local artist creates sculptures from junk and has a full gnome village to see. Located at 2740 N Harshman Rd Bloomfield IN 47424

Outdoor Metal Sculpture Museum

Sculpture Trails Outdoor Museum is located deep in the woods amongst the rolling hills of Solsberry, Indiana. Founded in 2002, it displays over 166 large-scale sculptures by artists from around the world along a 3-mile trail. This might be the best thing, in my opinion.

The Goose pond

Goose Pond Fish & Wildlife Area in Greene County is the perfect place for my wildlife and birder friends. The “pond” is a huge expanse of wetlands that includes over 30 miles of earthen dikes, 1,400 acres of prairie, and nearly 4,000 acres of shallow water.  

The area is becoming a significant destination for Midwestern birders and hunters; and home to many migrating bird species, attested by the impressive Sandhill Crane fly-in each spring, as well as many endangered species such as the Bald Eagle, Northern Harrier, Short-Eared Owl, Wilson’s Phalarope, King Rail, Sedge Wren, Henslow’s Sparrow, Whooping Crane, and American and Least Bitterns. Located Southwest of Linton.

Shawnee Summer Theatre

Indiana’s longest, continuously-running summer stock theatre. Since opening its doors in 1960, it has become a favorite Indiana summer tradition. This is closed for the season but is a good reason to come back. Located south of town in Bloomfield

Greene-Sullivan State Forest (not in Bloomfield, but worth the visit)

Fish, camp, or just rest and relaxation at Greene-Sullivan State Forest. This is one of the most beautiful and serene places to visit in the area.  Nearly 9,000 acres of wooded rolling hills dotted with more than 120 easily accessible lakes, making It one of the most unique areas in Southern Indiana.  

Many of the lakes are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill and red-ear sunfish offering some of the finest fishing in the State.  With over 100 family campsites available between Narrow Lake, Wampler Lake, and Reservoir #26 and an additional 20 sites in the Horseman’s Campground near Ladder Lake, there is something for everyone including picnicking, mushroom hunting, horseback riding, photography, and wildlife viewing.

Redbird Off-Road State Recreation Area

This 1400-acre property contains approximately 50 miles of “marked” Off-Road Vehicle Trails.  From gentle slopes to technically difficult trails, “Redbird” (as it is known locally) delivers trails for all skill levels as they twist through the spoil piles left by early-era mining in the region.

Redbird has something for every off-road enthusiast, whether pick-up truck, dirt bike, SUV, ATV, UTV, or dune buggy. Located in Dugger this is a fun way to spend the day.

Richland-Plummer Creek Covered Bridge

This is a historic Burr Arch Truss wooden covered bridge located in Greene County, it was built in 1883 measuring 102’ long, 14’ wide, and 16’ tall. Located 2 1/2 miles south of downtown.

Largest Sycamore Tree (not quite Bloomfield, but nearby)

If you’re a fan of odd roadside attractions like us than make the 15-minute drive north to the town of Worthington to see the Largest Sycamore Tree. 

This is a monument containing one of the surviving remnants of this tree, the western limb (23 ft. 2 in. in circumference) and smaller of the two, was moved to this location in 1925 after it succumbed to a storm.

Estimated at 500 years old, the Oxford Journal of Heredity reported in September 1915 that the tree was the largest “Broad-Leaf Tree in the United States” measuring 42 feet 3 inches in circumference. In its heyday, the shady tree was a popular place young lovers because the tree was so hollow one could have picnics inside the trunk and so large that a horse and buggy could easily be hidden behind it.

Where To Shop in Bloomfield, Indiana

Persimmon Tree Foods and Gifts

A great place in Bloomfield to get unique items and foods. It’s a fun store to visit and the perfect place to find your next treasure. The store is located on Bloomfield’s Southside.

Second Times the Charm

An amazing thrift store that sells clothing, furniture and everything in between, not to mention their outreach programs that help the community. Second Times the Charm is located on Bloomfield’s Southside.

Season’s Greetings

This toy store is super cute and has high quality toys for every child that will last for generations. The store is located just off the square in Bloomfield.

Blue Barn Hill Farm

This small family farm has produce, plants, handcrafted items and homemade foods, they are online and have a self-serve roadside stand located 3 miles East of Bloomfield.

Where to Eat and Drink in Bloomfield, Indiana

Feed Store Beer Co

This watering hole brews beer and often has a food truck to serve dinner parked outside. They do trivia nights and other events. Located on the West side of Bloomfield.

Yoho’s General Store 

This is a wonderful little store and gas station that has a long history in the county. They have ice cream and pork tenderloins and other lunch foods. IYKYK, but in the South gas station eats are suprisingly delicious. I’m think the same can be said for Yoho’s. Located in Solsberry.

Belly & Kecky’s Pizzeria

Sit down, carryout or delivery. More than just pizza this family owned and operated restaurant is delightful. Find them on the Eastside of Bloomfield.

Mill Street Pizza

Carrying on a pizza tradition that has lasted over 40 years in the same location! The Home of the Square Pizza, located on South Seminary St. in Bloomfield.

Small-town festivals and Community Events

May – Bloomfield Town Wide Yard Sales

May – Barbecue, Blues, & Brews

July – 4th of July Celebration at Bloomfield Town Park & Fireworks Show

July – Bloomfield Downtown Revitalization Street Fest

October – Bloomfield Apple Festival – The perfect fall season activity 

December – Hometown Christmas

April 8th, 2024 – Bloomfield Indiana will be a prime view location for the solar eclipse!

Where To Stay In The Bloomfield Area

Hotels

Sleep Inn Newberry – Crane

Mainstay Suites Newberry – Crane

BnB Style Accommodations

Pleasant Grove Farm

Goose Pond Lodge and Retreat

Camping

Greene – Sullivan State Forest – Located about 30 minutes wests of Bloomfield. Primitive campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis PLUS 15 RENT-A-CAMP CABINS available for rent year round. Each cabin has a front porch with a swing. Inside there are two small rooms.

The front room offers a small table with bench seats, a corner shelf, a chair, a rocking chair, and a loft. The backroom offers a bunk bed (single) and a double bed (NO LINENS or MATTRESS PROVIDED). Air or cushioned mattress recommended. The cabins feature ceiling fans with light, a heating/cooling unit, and electrical outlets. While there isn’t a national park this is a good place for a great time outdoors. 

2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE IN BLOOMFIELD, INDIANA

Bloomfield will be centered on the path of the 2024 Total Solar Eclipse. The eclipse, as seen from Bloomfield, will have a duration of 4 minutes and 4 seconds. During a total solar eclipse, the moon blocks the sun’s bright face called the photosphere, briefly revealing our sun’s outer atmosphere.

You’ll definitely want to book your stay now. I did a little research already and as of the date of publication, these accommodations still have very limited availability for April 7-9, 2024:

Sleep Inn Newberry – Crane

Mainstay Suites Newberry – Crane 

Greene-Sullivan State Forest. For my hard-core camping friends. There are 100+ PRIMITIVE camping sites BUT the sites are first come, first serve. Honestly, I’d arrive on Friday to try for a spot and make an entire long weekend of it. In our opinion this is always a fantastic way to spend a weekend.

More Information on Bloomfield & Surrounding Area

Bloomfield is located in Greene County, Indiana. You can find more information about visiting here.

How To Make The Most of Your Visit to French Lick, Indiana 1 hour southeast

Things To Do In Southern Indiana – Corydon 2 hours southeast

10 Reasons You Need To Visit Buffalo Trace Park In Southern Indiana 1.5 hours southeast

The Charm of Bloomington Indiana 45 minutes northeast

Reasons To Visit Santa Claus, Indiana This Holiday 1.5 hours south 

Outdoor Adventures in Hendricks County, Indiana You Don’t Want To Miss 1.5 hours north

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However, touring the Daytona International Speedway in Daytona Beach had me rethinking my stance of watching some races.

THE DAYTONA INTERNATIONAL SPEEDWAY TOUR AND NASCAR RACING EXPERIENCE

NASCAR fans and non-fans are going to love this tour of the Daytona International Speedway.

Once arriving at the speedway you’ll hop on a truck-pulled tram. 

Over the course of the next hour you’ll hear stories of NASCAR and ride around the track. There will be opportunities to actually walk on the track and if you’re really lucky and their is a missile launch from the nearby Kennedy Space Center your guide will help find the best viewing area.

I’m always amazed at the size of racing tracks and grounds, but Daytona took it to a whole new level for me. Of course, I don’t have a ton of experience with tracks, but it just felt bigger than Atlanta and Indianapolis. 

The guides are really knowledgeable about all things NASCAR and, if you ask nicely, will even give you some insider tips on attending a race. 

The highlight of the tour for me was signing the finish line!

After the track tour you’ll end at the museum that has the winning Daytona 500 car (held together with duct tape) as well as memorabilia from all types of racing. 

Tours run daily and leave every thirty minutes beginning at 9:30 AM with the last tour of the day running at 3:00 PM.

If time allows sign up for a NASCAR racing experience where you can drive a race car by yourself or take a ride along. 

I took a ride along at the Atlanta Motor Speedway and it. was. incredible!!!

I would love to drive a car at some point, but riding along with a pro allows you to go high on the wall and as fast as possible. It’s one of my favorite memories!

The tour is fun and informative and, most likely, will make you at least want to experience.

After the tour it did have me wanting to go watch a race maybe it will do the same for you.

More about visiting Daytona Beach can be found here:

The Ultimate Guide to The Best Things To Do At Daytona Beach

Visiting Daytona Beach? You’ll Want To Stay At One of These Unique Hotels

13 Fun Things To Do Around Daytona Beach On A Rainy Day

The Perfect Getaway At The Shores Resort and Spa in Daytona Beach

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I don’t know about you guys but I love reading, I’ll admit that I mostly read on my kindle because its convenient, but I love browsing and visiting a good bookstore.

These bookstores hit the mark for being some of the best in each region. 

If you have a bookstore you love drop us a line and we’ll add it to our list.

A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the US-East

Photo From The Montague Bookmill Website

CONNETICUT

Jack And Allie’s – Vernon, CT “Delightful.” Brett Martin

PENNSYLVANIA 

Baldwin’s Book Barn – West Chester, PA “I adore Baldwin’s Book Barn which is a HUGE barn full of books. It’s an amazing place. Simply magical.” Kelly Whalen

MASSACHUSETTES 

The Montague Bookmill – Montague, MA

Edgartown Books – Edgartown, MA

Porter Square Books – Cambridge, MA

NEW JERSEY

River Road Books – Fair Haven, NJ “…is like a flashback to when bookstores were community gathering places. The owners/staff are the best mix of literary knowledge and friendly neighbor. Love it there.” Cristie Ritz King

NEW YORK

The Book Corner – Niagara Falls, NY “One of Niagara Falls’ oldest and most beloved businesses – and celebrated 90 years of business this year!” Elizabeth Anne

A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the US-Midwest

Photo From Bookbug Website

IOWA

Prairie Lights – Iowa City, IA

River Lights Bookstore – Dubuque, IA

Dragonfly Books – Decorah, IA “Large selection of books, special orders, select books for gifts, gif wraps, delievers, book readings, actively involved in the community and CVB.” Charlene Corson Selbee

Book Vault – Oskaloosa, IA

INDIANA

Indy Reads Books – Indianapolis, IN

The Two Sisters: Books and More – Richmond, IN “2800 square feet of one of a kind finds. They have a Harry Potter room too! They craft their own tea blends… very tasty.” Nancy Sartain

ILLINOIS

Anderson’s Bookshops – Naperville, IL “Nice selection of books and educational toys.” Kathy Rodeghier

Lake Forest Bookstore – Lake Forest, IL “My home town favorite!” Kirsten Maxwell

City Lit Books – Chicago, IL

Women and Children First – Chicago, IL

KANSAS

Watermark Books & Cafe – Wichita, KS

Rainy Day Books – Fairway, KS

MICHIGAN

McLean and Eakin – Petoskey, MI One of my favorite “Up North” bookstores in Michigan! Deb

Bookbug – Kalamazoo, MI

Archives Book Shop – East Lansing, MI “I’ve always loved the Archives in East Lansing.” Becky FIxel

Battle Creek Books – Battle Creek, MI “Owned by a local and has regular book signings and authors in. I love that they are great with encouraging locals to write, and have poetry reading nights!” Katie Hale

The Dawn Treader Book Shop – Ann Arbor, MI “Super Eclectic!” Kimberly Williams

Curious Book Shop – East Lansing, MI

The Cottage Book Shop – Glen Arbor, MI

John K. King Used & Rare Books – Detroit, MI “An amazing place.” Renee Monforton

Reader’s World – Holland, MI “Their supply of magazines is mind-boggling. They regularly stock hundreds and hundreds of mags alongside their books.” Amy S. Eckert

MINNESOTA

Magers & Quinn Booksellers – Minneapolis, MN “…is amazing! They mix new and used books and have a friendly and helpful staff.” Kelly Whalen

Once Upon A Crime Mystery Books – Minneapolis, MN

MISSOURI

Dunaway Books – St. Louis, MO

OHIO

The Book Loft of German Village – Columbus, OH “32 rooms filled with books!” Megumi Robinson

Loganberry Books – Shaker Heights, OH

WISCONSIN

Renaissance Book Shop – Milwaukee, WI

A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the US-South

Photo From Avid Bookshop Website

FLORIDA

Sundog Books – Seaside, FL

Bookstore 1 Sarasota – Sarasota, FL

Key West Island Books – Key West, FL “Quaint little place with new, used, original print editions, signed copies, and more!” Stephanee Barnes

GEORGIA

A Cappella Books – Atlanta, GA

Avid Bookshop – Athens, GA

Atlanta Vintage Books – Brookhaven, GA If you’re looking for a cool place to visit in addition to a stop at the bookstore be sure to visit Brookhaven.

Horton’s Books & Gifts – Carrollton, GA “The oldest independent bookstore in Georgia.” Ruth Birch Sykes

Underground Books – Carrollton, GA

MISSISSIPPI

Square Books – Oxford, MS

NORTH CAROLINA

Malaprop’s Bookstore/Cafe – Asheville, NC

Park Road Books – Charlotte, NC

Main Street Books – Davidson, NC

Quail Ridge Books – Raleigh, NC

Hudson Booksellers – Raleigh, NC

SOUTH CAROLINA

Blue Bicycle Books – Charleston, SC

VIRGINIA

Fountain Bookstore, Inc. – Richmond, VA

WEST VIRGINIA

Taylor Books – Charleston, WV “Amazing!” Keryn Means

Four Seasons Bookshop – Shepherdstown, WV (recommended by LitsyApp member @MuddyPuddle)

A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the US-Mountain

Photo From The Poisoned Pen Bookstore Website

ARIZONA

Changing Hands Bookstore – Phoenix, AZ

The Poisoned Pen Bookstore – Scottsdale, AZ

NEW MEXICO

Page 1 Books – Albuquerque, NM

TEXAS

Recycled Books – Denton, TX

A Guide to the Best Bookstores in the US-West

Photo From A Great Good Place For Books Website

CALIFORNIA

The Last Bookstore – Los Angeles, CA

Mysterious Galaxy – San Diego, CA “Specializes in sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and mystery. Been shopping with them for years.” Kari Embree

City Lights – San Fransisco, CA

Green Apple – San Fransisco, CA

A Great Good Place for Books – Oakland, CA

OREGON

Powell’s City of Books – Portland, OR

WASHINGTON

Village Books – Bellingham, WA “One of the best in Bellingham, WA. 300 singings a year!” Max Hartshorne

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And that’s what I’m here for: to help you know just where to look.

Be sure to use the map below to book a stay for your visit to Indiana.

Top 10 Places To Visit in Indiana

Grabill

First on the list of musts is to visit Grabill Indiana! Did you know that Indiana has the third highest Amish population in the nation?

Grabill is one of those quaint Amish towns that will leave you appreciating the simpler things in life while wowing you with the skills of the Amish.

Spend the day shopping the incredible craftsmanship as well as fresh and delicious food.

French Lick

Soak up some Indiana history with a visit to French Lick.

Enjoy a luxurious stay at the French Lick West Baden Resort, then spend time at the French Lick West Baden Museum where you’ll feast your eyes on the largest circus diorama in the world.

For animal lovers, Wilstem Ranch is a must. Be sure to grab a bite at one of the cute cafes in French Lick.

Story Inn

A stay at the Story Inn is not for the convenience. In fact, its locale is anything but.

Why is it a must visit? Because it’s one of the most haunted places in Indiana!

That’s more than enough for me, but the Story also has a great history and is certainly a fascinating place to stay.

Wolf Park

Located in Lafayette, Indiana, Wolf Park is the place to visit on a summer weekend.

Learn from the experts about wolves and their behaviors while admiring these amazing creatures.

You’ll even have the opportunity to join in a wolf howl chorus!

Bloomington

Home to Indiana University, Bloomington is full of places to see, things to do, and food to eat!

Kayak Lake Monroe, cozy up at the Starlite Drive-in Theater, shop the weekend farmer’s market, visit the exhibits at the Lilly Library, or walk the beautiful IU campus.

Corydon

Coined “Indiana’s Hometown,” Corydon in Southern Indiana is proud of its historical heritage as well as its system of caves and caverns.

You can visit these caves or learn about them above ground at the Harrison County Discovery Center.

Shop local crafts and sip and relax at local wineries.

Grant County

Grant County is loaded with unique experience opportunities. Hop on the Garfield Trail (yes, the cat!) where you’ll spot 11 statues of the snarky orange cat.

Admire the quilts of the Quilters Hall of Fame.

And, of course, grab some of the best ice cream from Ivanhoe’s where you’ll choose from a menu topping 200 options!

Santa Claus

Are you the kind that would love to celebrate Christmas year-round? Santa Claus, Indiana is just the place!

Of course, the best time to visit is in December when the celebration turns way up.

Enjoy a plethora of events like dinner with Santa, craft shows, a fruitcake eating competition, and lots of lights!

Indianapolis

The capital city of Indiana is brimming with things to do for the whole family.

Take a walk through history at Connor Prairie or visit the animals of the Indianapolis zoo.

You know that I’m going to recommend the Historic Indiana Ghost tours.

There are museums all over the place as well as all the best kind of eats.

World’s Largest Ball of Paint

Alexandria, Indiana is the home of the world’s largest ball of paint. Really! Contact the owners to see if you can add yet another layer to this massive ball.

Where to Eat in Indiana — All the Best Places

Where to Eat in South Bend

Home of Notre Dame, South Bend has some fantastic places to dine whether it be high end at Tippecanoe Place. Be sure to grab some mouth-watering chocolate at the South Bend Chocolate Company in downtown.

Where to Eat in Peru

Grab a cup of joe and a muffin at Aroma Coffee in this tiny but surprising town of Peru, Indiana. You’ll also love East End Double Dip is the cutest little ice cream shop, too.

Where to Eat in Hendricks County

Just south of Indy is Hendricks County where you’ll find, in my opinion, the best fried pickles around at Oasis Diner in Plainfield. The Bread Basket Cafe & Bakery in Danville is a sweet, family-run cafe that’s perfect for breakfast or lunch.

Where to Eat in Hamilton County

On the north side of Indy, you’ll find Hamilton County, the home of Eggshell Bistro. It’s a European style bistro that offers international flavors to delight your palette. An egg is included with every menu item.

Where to Eat in Northeast Indiana

Finally, if you’re in Northeast Indiana, you won’t want to miss out on Homestretch Steakhouse in Anderson. Bet on a pony and watch the race all while sinking your teeth into delectable steak.

Winchester, Indiana is the home of Mrs. Wick’s Pie Shop which is a full-service restaurant that isn’t complete without a delicious slice of pie! Find so much more in Northeast Indiana.

PIN PLACES TO VISIT AND WHERE TO EAT IN INDIANA

These extraordinary gatherings serve as fundraisers to

Your date night adventure helps support the conservation efforts for animals within the zoo and across the globe.

Join one of these unique events and contribute to the preservation of wildlife while enjoying an immersive experience tailored for adults.

7 Midwest Zoo Events For A Perfect Date Night

June 9 – Indianapolis Zoo Zoobilation

Join the Indianapolis Zoo for a night of music, gourmet food, and wildlife at Zoobilation, considered to be the hottest ticket in town!

During the evening, the familiar landscape of the zoo will be transformed into a magical wonderland of incredible animals, exhibits, live music, great food and beverages.

What is Zoobilation?

It is an experience like no other offering samples from over 70 different restaurants/bakeries around Indianapolis.  Below is just a sampling of the restaurants that will be at this years event.

• 1830 Chophouse
• Boba & Everything
• Convivio Italian Artisan Cuisine
• Garrett’s Smokehouse Barbeque
• Los Arroyos Mexican Restaurant & Bar
• Nothing Bundt Cakes*
• Schakolad Chocolate Factory – Zionsville

In addition to great food there will be an offering of premium wines and specialty cocktails from Republic National Distributing Company .

But Zoobilation isn’t just a party – this is a black-tie event with a purpose.

As the Midwest’s largest animal conservation fundraiser, Zoobilation supports the zoo’s mission to protect and care for its nearly 1,400 animals and 48,000 plants, as well as fund global conservation initiatives around the world.

Mark your calendar for this incredible event and join us in supporting the zoo’s vital conservation efforts!

Jun 9 – Grand Rapids John Ball Zoo Rendezoo

Experience one of the wildest parties in Grand Rapids, MI at John Ball Zoo’s Rendezoo!

Get ready to embark on an adventure on Saturday, June 9th, as the zoo comes alive with excitement, food, drinks, and entertainment, in an effort to support conservation.

Rendezoo Events

Rendezoo will be happening from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., guests will be treated to an extraordinary event that combines the love for animals with the joy of celebration. 

Including live entertainment from Mac Daddy  several animal appearances, and  viewing of the Grand Rapids Lantern Festival experience.

As you mingle with fellow animal lovers, take the opportunity to explore the zoo’s diverse habitats and encounter animals from around the world.

Food and Beverage

Enjoy a strolling dinner provided by  Donkey Taqueria and Applause Catering while siping on speciality cocktails and other beverages.

Every ticket purchased helps protect endangered species and create a better future for our planet.

• Enjoy 50 Days of Michigan Summer Fun

June 10 – Louisville Zoo Zoofari

Experience the excitement of the 42nd annual Zoofari! presented by Brown-Forman, happening on Saturday, June 10, 2023 with this years theme “Cool Island Breezes.”

Attendees can encounter amazing creatures such as Sumatran tigers, Little Blue penguins, orangutans, siamangs, Malayan tapirs, and colorful birds while enjoying tasty specialty appetizers and cocktails.

What is Zoofari?

Zoofari! is a remarkable philanthropic event hosted by the Friends of the Louisville Zoo board, celebrating the Zoo’s status as a cherished gem in the state and region.

By attending, you’ll contribute to the renovation of the MetaZoo education facility and support the Animal Ambassador Program.

Zoofari Ticket Options

Tickets for Zoofari! are now available, offering a range of options to suit your preferences.

For a more exclusive experience, consider the Mix & Mingle cocktail reception.

This special event from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. includes animal encounters, cocktails, and appetizers in the Islands area of the Zoo.

Enjoy live music by Cover Me Badd, late-night bites, and dancing in the Oasis event field area.

Zoo Summer Event Series Pass

If you’re looking for a way to extend the summer fun, the Friends of the Zoo Summer Event Series Pass is the perfect choice.

This pass grants you access to both Zoofari! and Brew at the Zoo, Wine and Food, Too! (taking place on August 26, 2023) at a special early bird rate.

Brew at the Zoo offers a delightful array of beer and wine tastings, appetizers, animal encounters, live entertainment, and unique culinary treats.

• More Louisville Date Night Ideas

June 17 – Columbus Zoo Zoofari

Get ready for an unforgettable evening at Zoofari, one of central Ohio’s most highly anticipated summer events!

This year, the proceeds will support the restoration and revitalization of the North America region within the zoo.

What is Zoofari?

Zoofari promises an exciting blend of familiar favorites and thrilling surprises.

Starting at 7:00 PM, guests will embark on a journey through various regions of the zoo.

Indulge in bite-sized culinary creations, sip on inventive cocktails, and get up close with captivating animals through special encounters.

Plus, enjoy a range of entertainment options that will keep you entertained throughout the evening.

Events

At 9:00 PM, it’s time to choose your own adventure! Laugh the night away with nationally renowned comedian Pete Lee at Lakeside Theater, or dance to the rhythm of live musical entertainment at Water’s Edge Events Park.

So doing forget to support the Columbus Zoo and enjoy a wild and unforgettable night. 

• Why You’ll Fall Madly in Love with Columbus, OH

June 16  – Cincinnati Zoo La La

Zoo La La takes center stage at Cincinnati Zoo on June 16, 2023, and is one of the most anticipated events of the summer.

It’s the wildest party with a purpose in the region, supporting the Zoo’s programming, including the Living Classroom Education Access Fund, which provides free educational experiences to children in need.

Prepare for up-close and personal encounters with fascinating animals that will leave you in awe.

Restaurants 

Indulge in food sampling from restaurants around Cincinnati offering a variety of options to please everyone,

Below is some of the restaurants offering food samplings this year.

• BIBIBOP
• Fiona’s
• Krueger’s Tavern
• 80 Acres Farms
• Mazunte
• The Cracked Pot

Entertainment

Live entertainment for the evening will include 3 Piece Revival Ben Lavin and Pickin’ Pear will take the stage.

And of course, a delightful selection of beverages to enhance your Zoo La La experience.

This party with a purpose is not to be missed, so mark your calendars and prepare for a night of endless adventure, and unforgettable food and fun.

June 23 – Detroit Zoo Sunset at the Zoo 

Save the date for an extraordinary evening on Friday, June 23, as the Detroit Zoological Society (DZS) presents the highly anticipated Sunset at the Zoo: Leap into Conservation gala.

From 7 to 11 p.m., this spectacular fundraising event will take place at the iconic Detroit Zoo.

Sunset at the Zoo promises an unforgettable experience for guests. Indulge in a culinary samplings of signature dishes from restaurants and food trucks around Metro Detroit. 

In addition to great food the zoo will be offering specialty zoo themed drinks. 

Entertainment

The evening will include live performances include   The Jerry Ross Band which will take the main stage. 

Also the Detroit Mosaic Youth Choir, Devyn Mitchell, Louis Jones III and Jesse Medawar will be preforming throughout the Zoo.  

Sunset at the Zoo

One of the highlights of Sunset at the Zoo is the unique opportunity for guests to explore the zoo’s extensive animal habitats after hours.

As the sun sets, the zoo takes on a whole new ambiance, providing an enchanting and intimate experience. With exclusive nighttime access, attendees can witness the wonders of the animal kingdom, observing their natural behaviors under the starry sky.

Rain or shine, Sunset at the Zoo is an event not to be missed. 

August 19 – Brookfield Zoo HOWL

Mark your calendars for a night of fun and conservation the 3rd Annual HOWL event!

The Chicago Zoological Society (CZS) is set to HOWL on Saturday, August 19, 2023, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Brookfield Zoo for a spectacular evening.

What is HOWL?

At HOWL, you’ll enjoy a fantastic lineup of activities throughout Brookfield Zoo’s Great Bear Wilderness and Hamill Family Wild Encounters.

Sip on cocktails, savor hors d’oeuvres, and immerse yourself in an evening that celebrates wildlife and the crucial efforts to protect it.

Tickets for HOWL will be available starting June 9, 2023.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of this exceptional event that supports the Chicago Zoological Society’s mission.

Events

The night will kick off with a VIP Hour from 6:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., featuring exclusive animal experiences, delectable hors d’oeuvres, and cocktails at the Hamill Family Wild Encounters.

Then, from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., the main event will take place at Great Bear Wilderness Underwater Viewing, where you can enjoy more hors d’oeuvres and cocktails.

By attending HOWL, you’ll be supporting the vital work of the Chicago Zoological Society Associates and contributing to the advancement of leading zoological institutions in the 21st century.

When we made plans to go to the zoo I thought we would only spend about 2 hours there. As we were leaving the zoo I was shocked to realize that we had spent almost 4 hours exploring the zoo.

(I couldn’t resist flower photos. Things were still dreary & under snow at home…I was THRILLED to see spring flowers.)

We arrived at the zoo as soon as they opened and we were able to park right next to the entrance. Arriving that early also meant that we didn’t wait in line to buy tickets. Of course, it helps that we visited on a weekday when things tend to be a bit slower.

Walking into the zoo the Oceans aquarium is immediately in front of you. This building houses fish tanks, penguins, and a shark touch tank. The shark touch tank is really cool. Yes, I touched a couple of sharks, they are very gentle creatures and small.

The sharks actually feel very silky. No worries about wet hands from touching the sharks. There is hand washing and drying stations available.

After our shark experience we ventured over to the dolphin show. The show is housed in a nearby building. We were early to the show so we decided to check out the Forests area while we waited. The Forests area has monkeys, tigers and bears, oh my.

We enjoyed watching the brown bear. He was very active while we were there. Usually when we go to a zoo the bears are sleeping so it was nice to see one up and moving.

The dolphin show is worth watching (unlike the Dolphin show at the Atlanta Aquarium, which I highly recommend you skip…I digress). Informative information about the dolphins is shared as well as the dolphins showing off their tricks and splashing the audience.

The show lasted about 20 minutes. During busy months you’ll want to request a timed ticket to the dolphin show when you arrive at the zoo.

After the dolphin show it was time to make tracks to the Plains region and one of my favorite animals, the giraffes! During certain times of the year you can feed the giraffes. I have done that at other zoos and it’s a lot of fun.

As we slowly made our way back to the car we noticed a Budgie Aviary that we had missed on our first pass through the zoo. I’m so glad we didn’t miss it on our way out.

We both LOVED the aviary. You are actually in the building with the birds flying all around. Budgies are so stinking cute. It kind of feels like being plopped into the middle of a Disney movie.

I’m thinking of Beauty and the Beast or Snow White, not Thor or Iron Man, lol. And no, we didn’t get pooped on during our visit…yep, I knew you were wondering.

We spent so much time watching the budgies fly around. They land right next to you so you are able to see all their color variances and little details. You can even buy budgie sticks and feed them. We had so much fun. I think kids of all ages will enjoy it.

After the aviary it was time to make our exit from the zoo. Surprisingly, more time had passed than I scheduled which meant missing other activities, but it was completely worth it. It is definitely a zoo we would visit again.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

TIPS

• Buy tickets online to save money
• Reusable water bottles are allowed in the park. You can refill them at drinking fountains to save money on drinks.
• Go early in the morning when animals are usually the most active

COST AT GATE
Adults: $32.75
Seniors (over 62): $30.75
Children (2-12): $28.75

*Can save on tickets if you buy online.*

CHECK HOURS HERE

PARKING
Available on site. Cost is $10.

LOCATION
1200 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46222

Learn more at https://www.indyzoo.com

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Many authors, including everyone’s favorite John Green, call the Hoosier state their home.

Most of them may not boast their own museum, but those from Indiana are still proud to claim them.

Literary Finds Beyond Indianapolis

A trip to the state capital, Indianapolis, will give you the most rewarding literary experience. But on your way, stop by a few cities and towns where some of your favorites spent much of their growing up years.

You may recognize some of these Indiana Literary names

• James Alexander Thom is from Gosport, Indiana, and graduated from Butler University in Indianapolis. He’s known for his historical fiction and nonfiction works including Long Knife, Panther In The Sky, and Follow The River.
• Meg Cabot is from Bloomington, Indiana and attended Indiana University. She’s best known for The Princess Diaries, Boy Meets Girl, Heather Wells, and several others.
• Bill Peet was from Grandview, Indiana. He was a children’s book author, best known for his work with Disney Studios. He was involved in the creation of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves, Pinocchio, Fantasia, Dumbo, Cinderella, and many more. He also wrote Kermit the Hermit and The Caboose Who Got Loose.
• Marilyn Durham was from Evansville, Indiana. She authored only three novels: The Man Who Loved Cat Dancing, Dutch Uncle, and Flambard’s Confession. You can find a collection of her papers at the University of Southern Indiana library.

Further Reading: The Charm of Bloomington, IN

In Indianapolis, celebrate the life of Kurt Vonnegut, Jr.

Kurt Vonnegut Jr. is best known for his works, such as Breakfast of Champions and Cat’s Cradle, that was not only written in but based on, the city of Indianapolis. Another claim to fame is the fact that his father and grandfather were both Indy architects. He was a Hoosier to the core.

Beyond his satirical literature, Vonnegut has also received all sorts of praise for his artwork – which also had a tendency to be satirical.

Don’t just take my word for it. Head down to Indy and get to know the late cantankerous Kurt Vonnegut Jr.

The Kurt Vonnegut Museum and Library holds a myriad of mementos shared by Vonnegut’s family. You’ll find his Purple Heart, typewriter, reading glasses, drawings and doodles, and even a pack of his favorite Pall Mall cigarettes. Browse a collection of his first edition works, films, magazines, short stories, and more.

You can even read through his stack of rejection letters if you can stand to. Enjoy free admission, ask the library curator for a tour, type away at a replica of Vonnegut’s typewriter, and grab a souvenir. Be sure to check out the occasional event featuring writers, musicians, and artists.

Find a 38-foot-tall Vonnegut in the form of a mural on the side of the Massala Building on Massachusetts Ave. The artist, Pamela Bliss, calls it My Affair with Kurt Vonnegut.

Bernard Vonnegut, Kurt’s grandfather, and his partner Arthur Bohn designed the L.S. Ayres department store, including the eight-foot-tall clock that hangs 29 feet above the sidewalk. The clock allows for you to check the time from every street. It was built in 1936, weighing in at 10,000 pounds.

Grab a bite to eat at the Bluebeard located on Virginia Ave. It’s named after one of Vonnegut’s novels. The whole place has a library feel to it, even serving your bill in an old library book.

When you’re ready for a drink, stop into Red Key Tavern where Vonnegut was known to frequent.

Further Reading: 6 Reasons You Should Visit Grant County, IN Soon

More famous Indianapolis novelist

Dan Wakefield not only grabbed the occasional drink at the Red Key Tavern, the novel-turned-movie he is best known for, Going All the Way, had several scenes shot right inside the hole-in-the-wall bar. It’s clearly the ideal watering hole for the literary fan. Just look for the glowing sign in the South Broad Ripple neighborhood.

For the poetry buff, be sure to visit the James Whitcomb Riley Museum Home in the historic Lockerbie Square. It is the only late-Victorian preservation open to the public in all of Indiana. It was here that James Whitcomb Riley spent the last 23 years of his life.

For $4 you’ll take a tour of this early 20th century American home where “the Hoosier Poet” penned many of his famous verses.

John Green fans will love strolling through The Virginia B. Fairbanks Art & Nature Park. Along the way, you’ll find the basketball court and the Funky Bones Sculpture mentioned in his book, The Fault in Our Stars.

If you’re not following John Green on TikTok or IG you are missing out. Highly recommending hitting that follow button on his social pages.

And finally, there’s something for Washington Irving fans.

The far-eastside Irvington neighborhood celebrates their namesake with the Historic Irvington Halloween Festival every year. It’s been called the oldest and largest Halloween street festival in the country.

See, Indiana can boast some pretty incredible humans.

Go ahead and binge read some books and then hit the road for some literary fun.

Further Reading: Day Trip To The Amish Community of Grabill, IN

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I did have to talk up the area a bit to get her to agree. It helped that I did some advanced research on Indy and shared a list of activities and ideas with her. I then let her choose a few of her favorites.

In my opinion, that is what makes traveling with teens so much easier. Giving them some say in where you go and/or what you do can make a world of difference.

Now, I’m not saying they run the entire show. I’m just saying they get a few choices throughout the trip.

Our first stop in Indy was downtown. We parked near Monument Circle and explored the area. Em’s favorite find was Rocket Fizz; a unique candy and soda shop.

I actually visited a Rocket Fizz in Denver and loved it so it was nice to find one a little closer to home.

Don’t Miss: More Things To Do with Teens in Indy!

Artistically designed pianos dotted Monument Circle. These pianos, created by local artists, reminded me of the cows in Chicago, cars in Pontiac, IL, and moose in Toronto.

The monument itself is a beautiful piece of art with different scenes on each side. It’s just so huge it’s hard to fit it into the camera frame.

Next stop, Dallara Car Factory in Speedway, IN.

Awesome fun wrapped up in a very reasonable admission price. None of us are race fans, but we aren’t going to pass up the opportunity to explore the foundation of the Indy 500.

We took a tour, learned about the history of Dallara and formula 1 cars, drove very, very fast (in the safety of a virtual world) and saw some incredibly beautiful cars.

I’ll be adding a post just about Dallara soon. You’ll want to come back and read it. It’s pretty darn awesome!

A stop by the Indy Speedway was a must as well.

There are times when Em wants nothing to do with any more photos of herself, but that doesn’t stop me.

I’ll take the photo opps. Half the time I look like a knucklehead, but I stopped caring about that years ago…I just want the moment captured.

After visiting Dallara and stopping by the Speedway we all decided that attending a race, which I kept calling a game (doh), might be a lot of fun.

After a day packed with fun we grabbed a to-go order from The Tamale Place (awesome, fantastic food….highly recommend!!!) and headed to our hotel.

After the drive to Indy and the day’s events, we were ready for some R&R.

Our second and final day in Indy was just as much fun as day one. Although, I quickly realized that there wasn’t nearly enough time to see and do everything that we wanted to.

Day 2 was spent at the zoo, an arcade (hey, when you don’t have an arcade near you this is a big deal for teens), discovering some fun shops and lunch.

We overspent our time at the zoo which meant that we didn’t have time to go to either the Children’s Museum for the SuperHero Exhibit or the Eiteljorg Museum for the guitar exhibit.

I guess that means we just need to plan another getaway to Indy.

Lunch at Rock Bottom Brewery—so good. I caved and had loaded mac & cheese.

The late afternoon was spent at Great Times Family Fun park.

There is putt-putt, arcade games, food, and fun. We love putt-putt, but often times use the “Thompson bumper golf” method.

Otherwise, we could be hours and hours playing because our putting isn’t the greatest.

Although I am proud to say, I did get two holes in one without the bumpers! That’s right TWO! Maybe my putting is finally improving.

Thompson “bumper” golf

Sadly, our fun times in Indy ended around 6 p.m. School work and my work waited back at the hotel for us and I try to make sure to build in at least 3 hours of work time on travel days.

I usually save it for the evening, but sometimes we switch it up and work in the mornings.

We did steal out for a bit that night to grab some donuts at the highly recommended Long’s Bakery on the west side of Indy.

Yes, they were worth the effort. The yeast donuts are melt in your mouth good and very inexpensive. I think they were right around 65 cents each.

Overall, we had a fantastic time in Indy and look forward to going back. I would highly recommend Indy as a teen-friendly destination. Stay tuned for my list of top things to do with teens in Indy.

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Sometimes the best reason to visit a destination is to experience the foodie scene and Kansas City gives you five good reasons to do just that. Sara (road trip partner extraordinaire) and I swung into Kansas City for a quick visit and discovered many things about Kansas City, but our favorite was finding the best foodie reasons to visit Kansas City, MO.

First stop on our tour was Port Fonda in the ever popular Westport District. The restaurant has a fun ambiance with plenty of window seating. The special drink of the day was a Hibiscus Infused Tequila Margarita. Yes, please. It was refreshing and delicious! The ordered appetizers were pretty darn good as well.

Afterwards we strolled around the Westport District and spotted a sign that said Doughnut Lounge. You know we had to step in and see what it was all about, right? I mean, a doughnut lounge??? HELLO. Stepping inside we find a doughnut shop and a cocktail lounge with fun conversational areas all rolled into one.

The doughnut choices were amazing and delicious, plus the Doughnut Lounge has a nice long list of cocktails. This is definitely my kind of place. It would be the perfect date night location for Alan and I. He could have a doughnut, I could have a cocktail and we’d both leave very happy. Now if they would just open one in Cadillac.

The next day found us indulging in even more great Kansas City foodie finds. For coffee lovers you absolutely MUST go to The Roasterie. Take a tour to see how they roast their coffee beans and at the end enjoy a coffee tasting of some of their best roasted beans.

If you visit on a Sunday be sure to enjoy the Food Truck Brunch from 10a-2p under the plane.

You can’t come to Kansas City without trying some good ‘ole Kansas City barbeque. We decided to go to the original and oldest barbeque in the city. Arthur Bryant’s is the most renowned barbequer in history and has been feeding diners since 1930 which is reason enough to stop in for lunch or dinner.

There will most likely be a line when you arrive, but it moves fairly quickly. The line gives you time to decide what to order. When you get to the window place your order and continue to move down the line. I say grab a plate of burnt ends and fries.  Pay the cashier, grab your food and find a table to enjoy some of the best BBQ Kansas City has to offer.

The burnt ends alone are worth a return trip to Kansas City. Sarah and I shared this and couldn’t finish it so there is definitely plenty for two, not very hungry, people.

Finish off your foodie visit with a stop at Glace Artisan Ice Cream. Their ice cream is “made from Midwest milk and all natural ingredients, our ice cream is churned in small batches to ensure a deliciously smooth and creamy experience every time.”

If you can’t decide on one flavor you can order 2-3 scoops of different flavors which can make for a very happy day.  They’ll also let you try the different flavors to help you make a decision. After trying more than a few it was still a hard choice, but I finally narrowed it down and picked a couple to enjoy.

Are you ready to pack your bags and head off to Kansas City? Be sure to take your stretchy pants because you may eat a little too much during your visit, but every bite will be well worth it.

If you need a place to stay overnight book a room at the Crowne Plaza on Wyandotte Street. It’s a great location to everything you want to do during your visit.

YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE

Studies have shown that if you liked this post you are going to love these.

We recently spent 2 days there and could easily spend 2 more and still not do and see everything.

If you are planning a visit to Indianapolis with teens here are some great suggestions for things to do.

FAMILY FUN IN INDIANAPOLIS

Indianapolis Zoo

Includes over 350 different animal species on its nearly 70 acres. The zoo’s Oceans exhibit features the world’s largest shark touch tank.

Eiteljorg Museum

Currently, there is a Dogs Faithful and True exhibit. LOVE

Conner Prairie

Travel through the outdoor historic areas, that include everything from a living pioneer village to a Lenape Indian camp, you’ll experience the thrills of time travel.

One of the park’s newest attractions, 1863 Civil War Journey: Raid on Indiana, puts you and your family in the middle of an Indiana brush with the Civil War. Through theatrical wizardry, including video, sound, staging and interpreters, you are drawn into the true story of General John Hunt Morgan’s cavalry raid on Indiana.

Or stop by the 1859 Balloon Voyage, a tethered balloon that simulates the nation?s first successful airmail flight by raising visitors 350 feet in the air and offering an excellent view of the surrounding countryside.

Great Times Family Fun Parks 

Located on a five-acre complex just minutes from downtown. Includes putt-putt, bumper boats, go-kart track, and indoor playland.

Indianapolis Art Center

The Indianapolis Art Center is a not-for-profit community arts organization that strives to make art accessible to all people and enhance people’s lives through art.

Duck Pin Bowling

A variation of 10-pin bowling, but uses small pins and balls.

Fountain Square

Just southeast of downtown, this funky Indianapolis neighborhood has vintage and antique shops, a world of restaurants, working artists and a vibrant arts scene, live music and performance, and one-of-a-kind stores that sell comics, musical instruments, home decor, fresh flowers, and so much more

Historic Indiana Ghost Walk/Tour

Tours are centered around cities and towns which are among the most haunted in the state. Offering year-round historic ghost walks and bus tours.

Imax Theater

Featuring academy award-winning IMAX technology and a six-story screen. Offers audiences both 2D and 3D IMAX films, as well as contemporary Hollywood movies.

Artisan Market

Brought to you by the Indianapolis City Market and the area’s most talented artisans. At the market, you can find edibles, wearables, and everything in between.

Rocket Fizz

A great candy and soda shop in Monument Circle, downtown Indy. We loved visiting here and it’s a great place for kids of all ages.

Things To Do In Indianapolis for Sports Fan

Lucas Oil Stadium Tour

Tours last approximately one hour and include visits to the playing field, an NFL locker room, Lucas Oil Plaza, the press box, and numerous other areas (depending on availability) that are generally inaccessible to the public.

The tours are typically conducted at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday. Tickets are available only on the day of the tour and are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Tickets can be purchased at the exterior ticket windows of the Colts Pro Shop located at the northeast side of the stadium, near the corner of South St. and Capitol Ave.

NCAA Hall of Champions

The Hall offers several interesting things to see and do such as a downhill skiing simulator, video games in which visitors throw real balls at moving targets and a theater video that provides interesting thoughts and experiences surrounding student-athlete academic and athletic life.

You can learn about all the NCAA championship sports through kiosks that share sport-specific trivia, past champions and much more.

Dallara Car Factory

Offers visitors the chance to explore 20,000 square feet of interactive and hands-on exhibits centered around the engineering and technology of the world’s fastest sport!

While you’re here, feel the rush of adrenaline as you strap on a helmet and slip into our Street-Legal IndyCar 2 seater and speed past the world-famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway!

Victory Field

“Best Minor League Ballpark in America”

Indy Motor Speedway Hall of Fame

The Hall of Fame is devoted to automobiles and auto racing. An extensive trophy collection, including the famed Borg-Warner Trophy, which honors the winner of each Indy 500 is also on display along with auto racing trophies, honors and awards from around the world.

Things to do in Indianapolis’ Parks and Outdoor Spaces 

Canal Walk

The refurbished Canal Walk is a waterside promenade for walkers, runners, bikers, and sightseers (plus pedal boats on the water which can be rented west of the Indiana State Museum)

White Pine River State Park

The only cultural urban state park in the U.S. You can tour the park by pedal, by boat, by Segway or by foot.

Monument Circle

The center of downtown Indy. The circle has great shops, restaurants and things to see and do.

In addition to the above, there are always lots of events and festivals taking place in the area. Be sure to click over to VisitIndy to learn more.

More fun things to do in Indianapolis with teens:

Visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indianapolis Zoo with Teens

Visiting Indianapolis

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