The Triple X Family Restaurant started serving Triple XXX root beer at a Thirst Station in West Lafayette back in 1932. During the height of popularity there were around 100 Thirst Stations in the U.S. and Canada. This Triple X Family Restaurant is the last remaining, original Thirst Station left and one of the few places that you can still buy the original, pure cane sugar Triple XXX root beer from 1895.

Thank goodness they are still serving up Triple XXX root beer because it is, hands down, fantastic. I’ve tried a lot of root beers and they are good, but Triple XXX somehow takes it up a notch. Of course, drinking it fresh out of the keg at the restaurant helped, but it was still good from the bottles I brought home.

The restaurant wasn’t added on to the thirst station until 2003, but they kept the vintage feel of an era gone by with decor reminiscent of vintage Route 66. Seating is around a U shaped counter as well as picnic tables outside.

Guy Fieri made an appearance at the Triple X Family Restaurant back in 2007 when he was brand new on the Food Network scene and tried a variety of menu items including the Duane Purvis burger.–“A burger for the more adventurous! A 1/4 lb. of 100% ground sirloin with thick,  creamy peanut butter served on a toasted sesame seed bun with melted  American cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and onion. A very special treat!” Apparently, he is quite the character and the staff had a great time filming the episode.

I tried it and really liked it. I know, I know, you are probably wondering how peanut butter on a burger could be good, but you’ll just have to trust me. It’s a little different but no different than peanut sauce for Asian dishes. This is definitely a burger I would order again. Of course, if peanut butter on a burger isn’t your thing the menu has many other options.

As always be sure to save room for dessert because the Triple XXX Family Restaurant makes THE best root beer cake and serves it with ice cream!

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO:

When I visited Triple XXX Family Restaurant was cash only. I don’t know if that has changed, but go prepared with cash just in case.

Hours: Wed-Mon | 7am – 10pm

CLOSED ALL MAJOR HOLIDAYS

Need a place to stay while in West Lafayette, IN? Book one of our recommendations today!

The Union Club Hotel – An Autograph Collection Hotel <<–This is our top pick!

Hampton Inn & Suites

Comfort Inn

Homewood Suites

THINGS TO DO IN GRABILL, INDIANA

H. Souder & Son’s General Store

Located in the heart of downtown Grabill, H. Souder & Son’s General Store is like stepping into a bygone era. Stocked with old-fashioned sodas, barrel candy, and nostalgic items, it’s a place that invites repeated visits. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular, the charm of this store never fades.

Country Shoppes of Grabill Antique Mall & Year Round Flea Market

With over 150 vendors across two floors, the Country Shoppes of Grabill offer a diverse shopping experience. From antiques to local handcrafted candles, you could easily spend hours exploring. Located on Main Street, it’s a mandatory stop for those who love to shop and discover unique finds.

Grabill Hardware

Directly across from Souder & Sons, Grabill Hardware offers a glimpse into Amish life with its range of products used by the local community. The Dutch Auction table adds an element of surprise to every visit, making it a popular spot not just for men, but for anyone interested in unique finds.

Catalpa Tree Grabill

A block south of the Country Shoppes, Catalpa Tree is a sanctuary for those seeking metaphysical books, unique gifts, and tranquil music. This store provides a peaceful retreat from the bustling antique mall and invites visitors to explore a different side of Grabill.

Katies’ Kountry Korner

On the corner of Schwartz & Witmer Roads, Katie’s Kountry Korner showcases beautiful Amish-made furniture, quilts, and canned goods. It’s a testament to the craftsmanship and tradition of the Amish community.

Grabill Country Sales

Enjoy the authentic taste of Amish country at Grabill Country Sales. This bulk food store offers a delightful deli, homemade baked goods, and a buffet. It’s an essential stop for anyone looking to sample or take home genuine Amish flavors.

Olde Church Shoppes

A short drive from Grabill, on the banks of the St. Joseph River in Leo, the Olde Church Shoppes offers a fun shopping experience. The scenic location adds to the charm of browsing through the various unique stores.

Common Grounds Coffee Shop

Situated on Main Street, Common Grounds is the perfect spot to recharge with a coffee and light fare. The welcoming atmosphere makes it a great place to relax and plan the next step of your Grabill adventure.

Schmucker’s Amish Farm Market

Located on Doty Road, Schmucker’s offers an array of fresh produce, Amish-made cheeses and butters, and other bulk foods. The market is ideal for those looking to experience the fresh, wholesome goodness of Amish farming.

Grabill Country Fair

An annual highlight, the Grabill Country Fair offers amazing food, music, and fun activities. It’s a chance to experience the genuine country fair atmosphere, rich with tradition and community spirit.

NEARBY AND WORTH THE DRIVE

Spencerville Covered Bridge

6 miles from Grabill, this is one of the region’s oldest, built in 1873, and most treasured covered bridges.

Olde Church Shoppes

Just a short drive from Grabill the Church shops are located on the St. Joseph river in Leo.

Leo Café 

Grab a drink and a bite to eat before heading home.

What Else Is There To Do Near Grabill, Indiana? It’s a short drive to Fort Wayne with lots to do!

It’s a short 30 minute drive from downtown Fort Wayne to the heart of  amish country.

Use Fort Wayne as a weekend destination with a visit to the quaint town of Grabill as a day trip. Fort Wayne offers a number of hotels with indoor pool and/or outdoor pool, making it a perfect place for families to stay. There are also luxury hotels if you want to indulge.

Enjoy an entire weekend of family fun! 

Get your culture and art fix

Visit the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo

Discover Fort Wayne’s Foodie Side (there are so many great places to eat!)

Visit the tropical gardens and botanical gardens

Finish your visit with a trip to DeBrand chocolate for some taste testing.

Attend the Annual Vera Bradley Outlet Sale

There are more tips for attending the Vera Bradley Outlet Sale here

This is a great restaurant with an Americana hometown feel.

About FARMbloomington

They are opened Tuesday – Sunday offering a seasonal menu, both in both food and drinks.

On Saturday and Sunday the restaurant offer brunch as well as their regular menu.

Everything on their menu is sourced as much as possible from the local farms and let me tell you it all looked good and I could have easily ordered one of everything, but I was good and only order the one dish that they are known for the Sweet Seasons French Toast.

Now, I am usually not one for French toast as it is too sweet for me, but this was a delicious burst of flavor in every bite.

Fresh homemade bread soaked with an egg and season mixture called Sweet Season Spice Blend created by chef and owner Daniel Orr, which gave it the right mixture of sweet and savory.

It was topped with a spiced caramel sauce, orange creme fraiche, and fresh fruit.

Oh my gosh, it was a melding of flavors that is just amazing.

In addition to the wonderful food they have to offer, there is a large list of signature cocktails, bourbons, bottled & draft beers.

FARMbloomington Cocktails

Many of their signature cocktails go wonderfully any time of the day, but from 3-5 they offer several options of snacks so that you can relax with friends and enjoy a cocktail.

In addition to the restaurant on the main floor, they also have the Root Cellar Lounge where you can finish off the night.

It is listed as one of Bloomington’s best-kept secrets. Offering a variety of music from local bands, DJ’s and karaoke.

A great place to unwind from a rough week or just to meet a friend for drinks.

If you looking for a place with fabulous food and an amazing atmosphere FARMbloomington is the place to go.

Pin Where To Eat in Bloomington, IN

ROAD TRIP TIME!!

ROADSIDE ATTRACTIONS ALONG I-80

We try to take a break every couple of hours during long road trips and we are always looking for odd roadside attractions.

I found these roadside attractions along I-80 that make a great place to stop and stretch your legs for a few minutes. Don’t miss these roadside attractions along I-80.

I’m sharing some of the best stops from New York to San Francisco.

Roadside Attractions I-80 Pennsylvania

The Boulder Field, Lake Harmony, PA

Get out and stretch at this boulder field in Pennsylvania.

There are different sized and shaped rocks, some up to 26-feet long in a field that was created by glacial action.

This is a great spot to get out of the car for a bit. Be sure to wear good shoes. 

Located at Hwy 534, Lake Harmony, PA.

T-Rex and Bigfoot, DuBois, PA

I found Bigfoot in Pennsylvania!!!! Now I can say I spotted Bigfoot. You can find him at DooLittles Station. In addition to Bigfoot, you’ll find his friend, T-Rex. Be sure to grab lunch or a treat while you’re there. 

Located at 1290 Rich Hwy, DuBois, PA.

Sharon, Pennsylvania: Daffin’s Chocolate Kingdom

Chocolate lovers are going to love this stop. A 400-pound turtle, frog, deer and other woodland creatures. So very sweet. 

Located at 496 East State St., Sharon, PA.

Roadside Attractions I-80 Ohio

Warren, OH: David Grohl Alley, World’s Largest Drumsticks

This is the PERFECT stop for music fans. An entire alley of art dedicated to David Grohl plus you’ll be able to see the World’s Largest Drumsticks.

Located at Near W. Market St & Main Ave SW.

Clyde, Ohio: Ice Cream Cone-Shaped Building

Stop for a tasty treat at this ice cream cone shaped building. How fun! 

Located at 314 W. McPherson Hwy, Clyde, OH

Roadside Attractions I-80 Indiana

Whiting, Indiana: Mascot Hall of Fame

Seriously, a great place to run off extra energy. This 25,000 square foot facility pays tribute to America’s furry freakish sports ambassadors. 

Located at 1851 Front St., Whiting, IN.

Gary, Indiana: Fusion: Steel Workers and Fairies

Pretty cool sculpture of fairies flying out of a massive molten pot!

Located at 440 Broadway, Gary, IN.

Roadside Attractions I-80 Iowa

Freedom Rock, Menlo, IA

Make a stop at this patriotic rock.

Located at 120th St., Menlo, IA.

Walcott, IA World’s Largest Truck Stop

This is a great stop to note on your road trip guide.

Plus, you can grab a bite to eat, fill up the car with gas and stretch your legs.

Located at 755 W. Iowa 80 Rd.I-80, Exit 284 Walcott, IA.

If you have some extra time, head over to Winterset, IA and visit the Bridges of Madison County. It’s about 20 minutes south of I-80 and worth the stop if there’s time. A fun stop to see the covered bridges.

Brayton, IA Tree In The Middle of the Road 

Might want to be careful taking the scenic route off I-80. Yikes.

Located at 2401-2449 350th St, Brayton, IA 50042.

Riverside, IA Future Birthplace of James T. Kirk

Just in case you need a refresher of the awesomeness that is Captain Kirk…I guess instead of a road trip planner, Captain Kirk would have used a space trip planner 😉

NOTE: Riverside, IA is about 25 minutes south of I-80, but for Trekkie fans it’s worth the detour!

Located at 350th St., Brayton, IA.

Alliance, NE Carhenge

Step aside Stonehenge there’s a more modern take on your historic display.

Roadside Attractions I-80 Nebraska

Bayard, NE

Chimney Rock National Historic Site

Lincoln, Nebraska: Giant Paper Airplane

A 32-foot long paper airplane replica that looks realistic. W. Adams St., Lincoln, NE

York, Nebraska: Marble Museum: World’s Largest Collection

Proof that there is a museum for everything. This one is all about marbles. If you’ve lost yours by this point on the road trip with the family this might be a good place to look for them.

Potter, Nebraska: 24-Hour Duckpin Bowling

Need a stop in the middle of the night. This is just the spot to try your hand at duckpin bowling.

Roadside Attractions I-80 Wyoming

Buford, Wyoming: Smallest Town In America

This used to be the smallest town in America with a population of 1, but that resident left over a decade ago and it’s now considered a ghost town.

Cheyenne, Wyoming: Giant Coffee Pot

Be sure to check out this coffee pot water tower when you stop for gas at Sapp Brothers fuel.

Pine Bluffs, Wyoming: Tee Pee House 

This home is shaped like a giant teepee with smaller teepee surrounding it. Definitely a unique home.

I-80 Service Rd., Pine Bluffs, WY

***Pin Odd Roadside Attractions Along I-80 Road Trip Guide To Pinterest***

Photo (c)ShowMeGrantCounty.com

1. Garfield Trail: Yes, Garfield the Cat. There is a trail to find fun statues of everyones favorite, snarky cat. There are 11 different statues spread around Grant County. Make it a fun day out and get a selfie with each one. Jim Davis, creator of the famous comic strip, is from Grant County and they embrace that fact with the Garfield Trail.
2. Ivanhoes: When I first met someone from Grant County the first thing they said was a visit to Ivanhoes was an absolute must! I haven’t confirmed this, but I’m thinking they have the largest selection of sundaes and shakes in the state, if not the U.S. They have 100 sundae options and 100 shake options. If you can think of a combo, I’m pretty sure they have it! Some interesting blends include Berry GRReat (Blueberry shake with frosted flakes, whipped topping and sprinkles), Sticks and Stones (Chocolate shake, pretzels and cookie dough pieces), Happy Birthday (Crushed Oreo’s blended into our vanilla shake. Topped with a scoop of hand-dipped strawberry ice cream and a cloud of whipped topping, adorned with a birthday calendar.) If you are in the mood for savory food Ivanhoes serves up salads and sandwiches.
3. Home of James Dean. Yes, this is where the famous Rebel Without A Cause and East of Eden actor was raised. A rising star whose light still shines on at the James Dean exhibit and James Dean Festival in Fairmount, Indiana. Fans will find a James Dean Trail, gallery, memorial and more.
4. Cumberland Covered Bridge. I love finding covered bridges and had no idea one was hiding in Grant County, Indiana. The bridge is 181 feet long and crosses the Mississinewa River. Built in 1877 it was washed downstream in a 1913 flood, but was returned to its original foundations. In 1999 it was restored to its original beauty. Definitely worth a stop if you are in the area.
5. Quilters Hall of Fame. Located in the Maria Webster House, a National Historic Landmark, visitors can see unique quilts, visit the hall of fame and enjoy the architecture and design of a restored Colonial Revival home. Be sure to walk through the gardens if you visit during the summer.  
6. Walkway of Lights. If  you are visiting Grant County during the holidays be sure to participate in the Walkway of Lights. The brilliant display is over a mile long and features more than 2.5 MILLION lights. Over 120 individual displays run side by side along the Mississinewa Riverwalk in Matter Park. The Walkway of Lights is one of the longest running and largest light displays in the Midwest.

Pin To Pinterest:

This lovely Bloomington hotel is neatly tucked on a side street just a short walk from the hustle and bustle of downtown and the campus of Indiana University.

Grant Street Inn is a 40-room bed and breakfast that provides luxuriously decorated rooms, a full, delicious breakfast, and personalized service.

Coffee is available all day and in the evening cookies are provided.

The Inn has two buildings; the main building where you check-in, have breakfast and also houses some of the rooms and a newly remodeled building across the street that has more rooms.

The landscaping around this Bloomington hotel is so pretty.

I loved all the flowers in bloom and the lush green grass. Each building has beautiful porches with white rocking chairs that provide a peaceful place to enjoy your morning coffee.

My room was in the building across the street on the second floor. It is one of the larger hotel rooms I’ve stayed in.

The huge king size bed was adorned with lush bedding that was so comfortable I wanted to pack it in my suitcase and bring it home.

The photo doesn’t really provide a good view, but there were also quite a few pillows on the bed.

Oh, how I love a bed with lots and lots of pillows.

I love the placement of the love seat in the room. It provided a great place to stretch out and plan the day.

The room had all the amenities that I’ve come to love at hotels: a large bathroom, comfortable seating and bed, and room to move around.

Activities To Do In And Near Bloomington IN

The Charm of Bloomington Indiana

Top 10 Places To Visit in Indiana & Where To Eat

Why You Should Go To The Bloomington Farmers Market

Things to do in Southern Indiana – Corydon(about 1:50 minutes away)

How To Make The Most of Your Visit to French Lick, Indiana(about 1:15 minutes away)

10 Reasons You Need To Visit Buffalo Trace Park In Southern Indiana(about 1:30 minutes away)

Pin Grant Street Inn Bloomington Indiana to Pinterest

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

Now, however, it’s best known for its caves and caverns. Cave and cavern stories are for another day because I need to tell you about all the things to do in southern Indiana above ground!

Our Suggestion For Things To Do In Southern Indiana – Corydon

Harrison County Discovery Center

Let’s start right downtown at the Harrison County Discovery Center. It is Corydon’s newest attraction, located in the historic Harrison County Jail. You and the kids can experience the history, science, and people of Harrison County through high-tech, interactive learning.

Explore the caves without actually leaving the building. Soak up some of the incredible history Corydon boasts, including one of the only Civil War battles fought north of the Mason-Dixon Line. It’s the perfect place to keep both kids and grownups engaged!

Zimmerman Art Glass

If you’re looking for some deep-rooted Corydon natives, look no further than Zimmerman Art Glass. This family-owned business is five generations strong.

They hand make a whole range of glass products from paperweights to olive oil bottles, and so much more. You can order something custom made, and even catch a glass blowing demonstration.

Say Cheers At Local Wineries

Corydon also boasts some award-winning wineries. Turtle Run Winery brings in tourists for more than just their wide array of wines. People also flock to Turtle Run because of the turtles! An abundance of turtles roam the area, adding to the incredible scenery.

The very knowledgeable owner, Jim, is known for his crazy tours that every wine lover will thoroughly enjoy.

O’Bannon Woods State Parks

If you have your RV, want to stay in a cabin, or just want to pitch a tent, O’Bannon Woods State Park is a great place to stay the night.

You’ll also enjoy spending the day hiking trails, horseback riding, fishing, visiting the Nature Center, and cooling off at the Family Aquatic Center.

There are also several events held at O’Bannon throughout the year to keep you coming back.

Southern Indiana Cave Trail

Don’t leave Corydon without visiting at least one of the famous caves. I recommend Marengo Cave. It’s great for families with its easy walking tours, but also caters to the more adventurous with their cave exploring trips. They even have what they call “The Crawl” for the caving experience without the muddy mess.

Jump over to Exploration America to read about the underground experiences you can have in Corydon.

Learn More Things To Do In Southern Indiana

There’s just so much to do in historic Corydon. The people of Corydon are proud of their heritage, calling Corydon “Indiana’s Hometown.” It has the small town feel we all crave while offering a wide range of entertainment.

Looking for more travel destinations?  Check out my list of things to do in Roswell, NM!

University towns are, generally, some of my favorite places to visit.

It is almost guaranteed that you will find worthy attractions, great food, and a fun, energetic vibe.

In the center of town, you’ll find the town square complete with a Beaux-Art architecture courthouse that rests on a small rise and is framed by manicured green grass and lovely flowers.

Just beyond the courthouse square lies Indiana University.

During the school year, Bloomington’s population swells as students from around the world arrive at IU.

This is good news since it allows full-time residents to enjoy a global culture without having to board a plane.

WHAT TO DO IN BLOOMINGTON, INDIANA

Lilly Library

Besides having a highly recognized research library the Lilly library also features special exhibits, and, if you are lucky, Oscar will be on display (as in “the academy award goes to” Oscar).

I was there with a group of writers and we had a special presentation that showcased some of the library’s most treasured books.

I was able to touch original work by Shakespeare, gaze lovingly at old world maps and even hold Oscar.

Walking Tour Indiana University

Pass through the gates to the University and take a self-guided tour to enjoy the architecture and building details as you wander around.

The landscaping is pretty outstanding as well. This is a great way to spend an afternoon.

Festivals and special events

Every weekend you’ll find a plethora of activities in Bloomington including a weekly farmer’s market, Arts Fair on the Square and more.

Tibetan Mongolian Buddhist Cultural Center

Located a short drive out of town you’ll find this cultural gem. Guided tours of the buildings and grounds are regularly available.

A number of cultural classes and workshops are available at the center.

This is the only place in the U.S. with two Tibetan Chortens. You’ll find some nice hiking trails here as well.

Starlite Drive-In Theater

When’s the last time you went to a drive-in theater?

This is an iconic Americana and definitely worth a visit. Two feature films for one low price.

Be sure to pack lawn chairs and bug spray and get ready to enjoy movies in the great outdoors.

Lake Monroe

If you want to spend some time on the water head over to Lake Monroe, Indiana’s largest lake.

Rent a boat or a kayak and float away an afternoon.

Oh, I don’t want to forget to tell you. If you love independent bookstores (swoon) you have to stop at the Book Corner.

WHERE TO EAT IN BLOOMINGTON

There are 100+ restaurants in the area.

Seriously, so many great choices AND a lot of ethnic choices. Asian foods have a heavy influence in the area: Chinese, Tibetan, Thai, etc.

You really won’t go hungry in Bloomington, but if you need help narrowing down your options these are some of my favorites.

Scholar’s Inn Gourmet Cafe

It is the place to go for an elegant meal while in town.

Located on the main street just a couple blocks from town square the Scholar’s Inn serves up gourmet food in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining, as well as a full-service bar.

The menus, located inside classical and popular books, have a nice selection of entrees that should whet most appetites.

FARMBloomington

A delicious farm to table establishment (have I mentioned my love of farm to table restaurants…). You can read the review here.

The Irish Lion

Two words: Blarney Puffballs. If you order nothing else, order those and enjoy them for me.

So very, very good.

The Irish Lion has a great pub feel. We sat in the balcony area and loved looking down at the activity below.

Food and service both get two great big thumbs up.

The Chocolate Moose

This famous ice cream establishment had people standing in the rain waiting for ice cream.

As soon as I saw the line during a rainstorm I knew it must be good so I looped back around and made an ice cream stop.

Yep, it’s worth a wait in a rainstorm.

Malibu Grill

Great ambiance, casual, yet a bit classy. Artichoke dip is delicious.

Definitely, another place I would visit again.

WHERE TO DRINK IN BLOOMINGTON

Bloomington also offers some delightful wine and beer options.

For the wine lovers, you’ll want to make tracks to Oliver Winery and Butler Winery. They both have downtown locations but try to make it out to their vineyards. I promise it’s worth the extra effort.

Beer connoisseurs need to stop by Upland Brewery and Bloomington Brewery.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that Bloomington is home to Indiana’s first craft distillery, Cardinal Spirits.

Offering tours, tastings, and cocktails. This is where you’ll find me when I’m in town.

NEARBY TOWNS WORTH A VISIT

COLUMBUS, IN

This small town is a mecca of modern architecture.

Everything from business buildings to homes you’ll find modern influences interspersed with old buildings making it a fascinating look at then and now.

Guided tours are available or you can take a self-guided tour.

For a special treat stop in a Zaharako’s, an old fashioned soda fountain shop.

This delightful establishment is not just a soda shop though, it’s also a museum showcasing the history of soda fountains and mechanical music.

NASHVILLE, IN

Nashville is a small, bitty town not too far from Bloomington, but it is packed with an exceptional amount of artisans and crafters.

Stroll the streets and step into numerous galleries and shops, talk to the artist and start checking items off your holiday shopping list.

If you’d like more information contact Visit Bloomington.

Pin the Charm of Bloomington to Pinterest

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

Pin Indianapolis Zoo To Pinterest