Global Ambassador Stories
Fun Things to Do Around Purdue
Story by Juliana Pereira
December 07, 2022
I know you are coming to Purdue to study; but, even the best students also need some free time to relax, reenergize, and get back to work, more inspired to reach your next giant leap! Purdue is a great place to both study and have fun! I do not need to mention the high international rankings Purdue reaches in academic excellence. However, you may be curious about what your life will look like when you move to Purdue’s main campus. Below is my list of favorite things to do at Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, and its surroundings:
Do you like working out or trying different sports? The multi-award-winning France A. Cordova Recreational Sports Center, well known as CoRec, is the Purdue gym. It is an incredible facility with five floors and has all sports you can imagine! From a huge climb wall (55ft/16.8m) to massage chairs - you will definitely find something that you love!
Talking about sports, you should watch a Purdue game! Any game, basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, etc. It is not only a game; for me, it is a show! My goal is to watch every single sport until I graduate! Check Purdue Sports for game times and dates along with ticket availability.
Do you like to connect with nature? West Lafayette has multiple parks for you to walk, bike, see various animals, have a picnic, and enjoy life!
Are you more of an urban person and like bars and restaurants? No problem! West Lafayette and the city next to it, Lafayette, have a great variety. My favorite bars (if you are 21 years and older) are Harry’s Chocolate Shop and Nine Irish Brothers. My favorite restaurants are not the cheapest ones, but for sure you have plenty of different places to eat with varying cuisines from around the world and price ranges from everyday meals to special occasion dinners. Check out my favorites - Bistro 501 and The Bryant.
The city has a couple of nice rivers. A great way to spend the day is going down the river by canoe or kayak! For more information check out Wildcat Canoe and Kayak Too.
Do you have more time available for a day trip? If you do not have a car, you can rent one with a couple of friends or take the shuttle for a fun day in Indianapolis-IN, Chicago-IL, or Michigan City-IN! All three places have an immense variety of fun things to do! Just Google it!
Winter tip: Get ready for lots of fun during winter too! The city has an ice-skating center near campus. And multiple ski and snowboarding areas are located less than 3 hours from Purdue! 
Spending the day with my mom in Michigan City, IN 
Walking at Happy Hollow Park in West Lafayette, IN
The views of the author are not necessarily those of the Grad School or Purdue University.