The best things to do in West Lafayette

“At The Busy Bee Play Cafe, kids burn energy in clean, imaginative play zones while you actually sip real coffee from comfy seating with open sightlines. Drop in or reserve, grab flexible passes or memberships, and consider their stress-free birthday parties with room for big family crews.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, September 18, 2026

“Built in 1927 with a Bill Diddel designed course, a recently renovated pool and junior swim program, and an event space with real historic charm, Hillcrest Country Club nails that community feel where you can chase a number, tire out the kids, then actually enjoy dinner.”

From the Columbus newsletter, September 8, 2026

“Brickyard Crossing has tee times waiting, a Golf Academy to tune up your swing, and a restaurant to celebrate whatever just happened out there. Call up your foursome and make this the week you trade scrolling for strolling fairways.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, August 3, 2026

“Tucked into the woods in the middle of town, Lafayette Country Club is that members-only spot where a well-kept 9-hole golf loop, a relaxing pool, and first-class dining turn ordinary weekdays into mini-vacations.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Between the links-style Kampen-Cosler and the parkland-style Ackerman-Allen, Birck Boilermaker Golf Complex gives you two Pete Dye championship tracks plus the Spurgeon Training Center & Range for practice, lessons, and fittings.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 8, 2026

“3rd Shot Pickleball Indy brings 15 indoor courts with climate control, divider nets, and replay cameras on every court, plus clinics, leagues, and open play that actually match your level. Reserve your own court, then debrief at the beer and wine tap wall or browse the pro shop curated by real pickleballers.”

From the Indianapolis newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Locally owned Hole In One Family Fun keeps things simple in the best way with an outdoor 18-hole course and batting cages, perfect for friendly rivalries, teen energy dumps, or quick weeknight decompression. Easy, upbeat, and just enough challenge to keep bragging rights interesting.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, September 15, 2026

“Monster-themed mini-golf chain featuring a glow-in-the-dark indoor course, plus arcade games & a DJ.”

“Tibbs Drive-In Theatre is still the city’s only drive-in, family owned since 1967, with four screens and crisp digital projection serving up first-run hits alongside retro favorites. Swap the couch for your car this week and make a night of it under the sky.”

From the Greenwood newsletter, August 12, 2026

“Landmark Keystone Art Cinema is a go-to for independent, foreign language, and documentary films, all presented on 7 DLP digital screens. Grab something from the full bar, relax in the Indie Lounge, or take your drink into the auditorium and enjoy something off the beaten path.”

From the Kokomo newsletter, September 6, 2026

“Upgrade your weekend with Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park at Eagle Creek Park, where you’ll soar on ziplines up to 305 feet, tackle 40 high-ropes obstacles, take the leap on Tarzan swings, then cool down with Forest EscAPE, a cryptid-themed, puzzle-filled romp through the woods.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 23, 2026

“Whether you're tuning up on the driving range or plotting your way through tree-lined fairways, Sahm Golf Course is a par-70 with big, well-kept greens that make your short game honest. Lessons, leagues, and a low-key snack bar keep it friendly for regulars.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Coyote Crossing Golf Club is a Hale Irwin designed, award-winning 18-hole track right here in West Lafayette, with scenic fairways, natural wetlands, and a layout that keeps you honest. Open to the public and playable for every skill level, it’s a perfect local reset with championship vibes.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Ravines Golf Course brings 18-hole championship golf to a serene, West Lafayette setting with bent grass greens, real-deal ravines, water that sneaks into play, and smartly placed bunkers.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Pirates Quest at Royal Pin Woodland brings backyard bragging rights with two outdoor 18-hole courses decked out in pirate-y sculptures and splashy water features. It’s an easy win for a low-stress weeknight hang, family smack-talk, or birthday crews, letting you trade errands for treasure-hunting putts.”

From the Lawrence newsletter, August 18, 2026

“Golfers can play at this public course just 2 miles from downtown Indianapolis.”

“In the heart of downtown Lafayette, History Center is freshly renovated and wildly flexible, with unique architectural character, a commercial kitchen, an auditorium that can sprout a dance floor, plus spaces for anything from trainings to weddings. They’ll even guide you from idea to event.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 11, 2026

“GQT Wabash Landing 9 keeps it simple, just the good stuff: first-run flicks, occasional Flashback Cinema throwbacks, and special Fathom Events that break the routine. Grab your favorite concessions this week and let someone else entertain you for two hours... your couch will forgive you.”

From the West Lafayette newsletter, August 17, 2026