Lafayette

Travel Guide

Photo provided by Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette
Lafayette which includes a pond
Lafayette featuring a pond
Lafayette which includes night scenes
Photo provided by Visit Lafayette-West Lafayette

A historic downtown, diverse outdoor attractions and a lively arts scene make the home of Purdue University one of Indiana’s most enticing cities.

Lafayette is a modern city that retains its historic charm. Once one of Indiana’s premier trade destinations in the 19th century, today Lafayette is a cosmopolitan university town with museums, galleries and parks.

West Lafayette is home to Purdue University, one of the United States’ preeminent research institutions. Visit the Neil Armstrong Hall of Engineering and admire its impressive atrium. Purdue Arboretum and Hort Park provide perfect outdoor settings to enjoy the mild Indiana climate.

Downtown is divided into three districts, all within walking distance of one another. Head to Chauncey Village for its nightlife and a college-town atmosphere. The Wabash Riverfront District spans both banks of the river and offers historic streets lined with shops and restaurants. Cross the Wabash River using the John T. Myers Pedestrian Bridge in Tapawingo Park. After crossing the bridge, make your way to Riehle Plaza, a waterfront public green that hosts festivals and performances throughout the year.

Near to Riehle Plaza is the Arts & Market District. Explore centuries of historic regional art at the Haan Mansion or admire modern pieces at the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette. Browse shops and galleries or grab a bite to eat at one of the neighborhood’s bistros. Sample fresh produce at the Lafayette Farmers Market, which has been a weekly tradition for over a century.

Bring the family to Columbian Park in the heart of downtown. Pet farm animals and stroll through the butterfly garden at the Columbian Park Zoo or cool off on the water slide at Tropicanoe Cove Aquatic Center. Drive 7 miles (11.3 kilometers) north to Prophetstown State Park, where more walking trails and a historic Native American village await.

Fly into Indianapolis International Airport, located 70 miles (112.7 kilometers) south of Lafayette. An Amtrak station is conveniently situated at Riehle Plaza downtown. Explore the outdoor attractions, cultural delights and rich history that Lafayette has to offer.

Where to stay in Lafayette

A Single Steakburger topped with melted American cheese, crispy bacon, French's French Fried Onions and zesty horseradish sauce.

Lafayette East

While Lafayette East isn't home to many top sights, Columbian Park Zoo and Elliott Hall Of Music are some notable places to visit nearby.

Lafayette East
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Downtown Lafayette Historic District

While visiting Downtown Lafayette Historic District, you might make a stop by sights like Elliott Hall Of Music and Lafayette Farmer's Market.

Downtown Lafayette Historic District
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Centennial

While there might not be top attractions in Centennial, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Elliott Hall Of Music and Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art.

Centennial
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Highland Park

While Highland Park isn't home to many top sights, Elliott Hall Of Music and Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art are some notable places to visit nearby.

Highland Park
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Perrin

When in Perrin, you can plan a visit to Columbian Park Zoo and Elliott Hall Of Music, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.

Perrin
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Vinton

While Vinton isn't home to many top sights, Columbian Park Zoo and Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art are some notable places to visit nearby.

Vinton
Drury Inn & Suites Lafayette, IN
Drury Inn & Suites Lafayette, IN
3 out of 5
4110 South Street, Lafayette, IN
The price is P5,995 per night from Jul 10 to Jul 11
P5,995
P6,714 total
Jul 10 - Jul 11
includes taxes & fees
Stay at this 3-star business-friendly hotel in Lafayette. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the breakfast and the helpful ...
9.6/10 Exceptional! (1,246 reviews)
"Nice, spacious and clean suites."

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025

Drury Inn & Suites Lafayette, IN
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lafayette IN
Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lafayette IN
2 out of 5
151 Frontage Road, Lafayette, IN
Fully refundableReserve now, pay when you stay
The price is P3,070 per night from Jul 13 to Jul 14
P3,070
P3,438 total
Jul 13 - Jul 14
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Lafayette. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the clean rooms in our reviews. ...
6/10 (1,000 reviews)
"Very unique and clean"

Reviewed on Jun 30, 2025

Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lafayette IN
Comfort Inn Lafayette I-65
Comfort Inn Lafayette I-65
2.5 out of 5
4701 Meijer Court, Lafayette, IN
The price is P5,005 per night from Jul 20 to Jul 21
P5,005
P5,606 total
Jul 20 - Jul 21
includes taxes & fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Lafayette. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and free parking. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean ...
8.2/10 Very Good! (1,000 reviews)
"This is a nice hotel. Will probably come back"

Reviewed on Jul 2, 2025

Comfort Inn Lafayette I-65
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Blue Door Cottages
Blue Door Cottages
2 out of 5
5312 N. West Shafer Drive, Monticello, IN
Stay at this cottage in Monticello. Enjoy free parking, a picnic area, and an outdoor pool. Popular attractions Indiana Beach Amusement Resort and Lake Shafer ...
9/10 Wonderful! (74 reviews)
"An event nearby and needed a comfortable place to stay."

Reviewed on Nov 8, 2024

Blue Door Cottages
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

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