Discover the Best Things to Do in Muncie, IN
Located in east-central Indiana, Muncie is a city that offers visitors a wealth of things to see and do. Whether you are interested in art, history, nature, or sports, there is something for everyone in this charming city.
One of the most popular attractions is the David Owsley Museum of Art, located on the campus of Ball State University. With more than 11,000 works of art from around the world, the museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in art and culture.
Visitors can explore galleries featuring everything from ancient artifacts to contemporary art, including works by famous artists such as Pablo Picasso, Rembrandt, and Andy Warhol.
Another great attraction in Muncie is the National Model Aviation Museum. The museum is located on the Academy of Model Aeronautics grounds and is the world’s most extensive collection of model aircraft and aviation memorabilia.
Visitors can see everything from early model planes to modern drones, as well as exhibits on the history of aviation and the pioneers who helped shape the industry. The museum is a fascinating and educational experience for anyone interested in aviation or engineering.
If you are looking for outdoor activities, Muncie has plenty of options. The White River Greenway is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and birdwatching, offering miles of scenic trails along the banks of the White River.
Meanwhile, Prairie Creek Reservoir is an excellent spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The reservoir covers over 1,200 acres and is home to various fish species, including largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie.
In addition, there are several public parks and golf courses throughout the city, as well as a skate park and BMX track for adrenaline junkies.
Overall, Muncie offers diverse activities and attractions for visitors of all ages and interests. So whether you are looking for culture, history, nature, or adventure, this city offers something. With its friendly atmosphere and welcoming community, it is no wonder that Muncie has become a popular destination for tourists worldwide.
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is a stunning cultural and natural heritage institution in the heart of Muncie, Indiana. The museum is a perfect blend of history, art, and nature, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of Indiana.
The museum features a wide array of exhibits and collections, highlighting the region’s history, the lifestyle of its inhabitants, and their contributions to the growth and development of Indiana.
The exhibits are housed in several historic buildings, each reflecting a unique architectural style and a particular period of the state’s history. The museum is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about history, art, and culture.
The gardens at Minnetrista are a delight to the senses. They are beautifully designed and impeccably maintained, featuring an extensive collection of native and exotic plant species. The gardens cover a vast area, encompassing a variety of habitats, from woodlands and prairies to wetlands and meadows.
The gardens offer visitors a tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of city life and provide a perfect setting for relaxation and contemplation. The gardens are also famous for outdoor events, such as weddings, concerts, and festivals.
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is an excellent destination for anyone seeking an enriching and enjoyable experience. The museum and gardens offer a unique opportunity to learn about Indiana’s history, art, and culture while enjoying nature’s beauty and serenity.
With its impressive collection of exhibits, well-manicured gardens, and commitment to education and community engagement, Minnetrista is a cultural gem not to be missed.
Tuhey Park
Tuhey Park is located in Muncie, Indiana’s Riverside/Normal City Neighborhood. It is situated along White River Blvd. and White River Greenway on the north side of the High St. Bridge.
The park is divided into two sections by North St. The northern section contains a parking lot, a picnic shelter, picnic tables, a playground, and an informal open space.
In contrast, the southern part features a formal open space lined with benches and trees, a historic bathhouse used for storage, a pool and splash pad, a new bathhouse with office space, snack bar, and locker-room facilities, new playground equipment known as Tuhey Towers and informal open space.
Over the years, Tuhey Park has undergone several transformations over the years, reflecting the Muncie community’s social, economic, and political atmospheres.
In the 1930s, it provided recreational relief from the economic and social stresses of the Great Depression. In the 1950s, it was an agent of social change surrounding the segregation controversy while embodying residents’ sentiments toward each other through social gatherings.
In the 1970s and 80s, Tuhey reflected the financial struggles of the Muncie community through the physical decay of its public facilities. Today, Tuhey struggles to form a generational identity due to a lack of attendance.
Despite its current struggles, Tuhey Park remains an important place in the hearts and minds of RNC residents. It has contributed to the community by becoming a place imbued with meaning through the embodied experiences of its visitors.
Plans are in place to redevelop Tuhey Park into a world-class venue known as “Tuhey Commons,” which aims to attract more visitors and enhance Muncie and Delaware County’s economic well-being and sense of place for its citizens.
As Tuhey Park continues to evolve and transform, it will undoubtedly remain a beloved community institution for generations.
The Bob Ross Experience
The Bob Ross Experience is a unique and engaging museum in Muncie, Indiana. The museum is dedicated to the life and legacy of Bob Ross, the beloved artist and television personality who rose to fame in the 1980s and 90s with his instructional painting show, “The Joy of Painting.”
The Bob Ross Experience features various exhibits and interactive displays, showcasing Ross’s artistic techniques, personal life, and enduring impact on popular culture.
One of the highlights of The Bob Ross Experience is the collection of Ross’s original paintings and artifacts. Visitors can view some of Ross’s most famous works up close, including his signature landscapes and seascapes.
The museum also features a replica of Ross’s television studio, complete with his easel, paint brushes, and palette. Visitors can step into the studio and try to paint along with a classic episode of “The Joy of Painting,” guided by Ross’s soothing voice and gentle demeanor.
The Bob Ross Experience is a must-visit destination for fans of Bob Ross and art enthusiasts. The museum offers a unique and immersive experience that celebrates Ross’s talent and passion for painting and his philosophy of embracing mistakes and finding joy in the creative process.
The museum’s interactive exhibits and hands-on activities make it an engaging and educational destination for visitors of all ages.
National Model Aviation Museum
The National Model Aviation Museum in Muncie, Indiana, is a fascinating tribute to the art and science of model aviation.
With over 11,000 square feet of exhibit space, the museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, models, and memorabilia that tell the story of the history and evolution of model aviation in America.
The museum showcases model aviation enthusiasts’ incredible creativity, skill, and dedication, from early hand-crafted model planes to the latest remote-controlled aircraft technology.
The National Model Aviation Museum exhibits are informative and engaging, allowing visitors to explore model aviation’s science, engineering, and artistry through various displays, interactive exhibits, and hands-on activities.
Visitors can learn about the pioneering aviators who laid the foundation for model aviation and the innovators and enthusiasts who have continued pushing this exciting field’s boundaries.
With diverse exhibits that appeal to adults and children, the museum is a must-see destination for anyone interested in aviation or model-making.
The National Model Aviation Museum is not just a museum but also a hub of activity for the model aviation community. With educational programs, workshops, and events throughout the year, a museum is a gathering place for model aviation enthusiasts nationwide.
David Owsley Museum of Art
Located on the Ball State University campus in Muncie, Indiana, the David Owsley Museum of Art is an impressive collection of over 11,000 works of art from around the world. The museum’s diverse collection spans centuries and includes art from ancient cultures and contemporary pieces.
Visitors can explore various mediums, from paintings and sculptures to ceramics and textiles. The museum also features rotating exhibits that showcase specific themes or artists, providing visitors with new and exciting experiences each time they visit.
The museum’s building is a work of art with a modern architectural design that seamlessly blends with the surrounding campus. Inside, the galleries are thoughtfully arranged, each room featuring a unique atmosphere that enhances the art on display.
The David Owsley Museum of Art is not just a place to admire the art but also a space for learning and community engagement.
The museum hosts various educational programs, including lectures, tours, and workshops, that allow visitors to learn about the art on display and engage with the museum’s staff and volunteers.
The museum also serves as a gathering place for the community, offering a variety of events and activities that bring people together to celebrate and appreciate art.
From its world-class collection to its commitment to education and community engagement, the David Owsley Museum of Art is a gem in Muncie, Indiana.