Home to Ball State University, Muncie might be best known as a vibrant college town, but it’s also a surprisingly rich destination for families looking for a mix of culture, hands-on fun and small-town charm. From interactive museums and lush gardens to nostalgic eateries, creative community spaces, and scenic outdoor trails, the city offers plenty of ways to fill a day — or an entire weekend.

What to See + Do in Muncie

Stop By the Muncie Visitors Center

Located in downtown Muncie, the Muncie Visitors Center is a great place to find more information about the city, and all of the things you can do, see and explore in Muncie and Delaware County. Talk to the friendly person at the front desk to get recommendations, peruse the wall of brochures and pamphlets, or purchase something from the gift shop, featuring art from local artisans.

Explore the Garfield Trail

Garfield is a big deal in Muncie! The lasagna-loving, Monday-hating cat was created by Jim Davis, who graduated from nearby Ball State University, and has kept Garfield’s headquarters and studio in Delaware County for decades. There are statues of the sarcastic cat all over Muncie and Delaware County, and a fun way to find them is by signing up for the Destination: Muncie Garfield Trail mobile passport to guide your experience. As you find each Garfield statue, you can check in and earn points to redeem for prizes.

Immerse Yourself in the Minnetrista Museum & Gardens

Part museum and part cultural campus, Minnetrista Museum & Gardens is where you will find artifacts dedicated to Delaware County history, beautiful gardens, a nature play area for children, historic homes, and walking paths that wind around White River Greenway. There’s something for all ages to enjoy at Minnetrista, and is a must-visit spot when you’re in Muncie.

One of the more popular permanent exhibits at Minnetrista is the Bob Ross Experience, where visitors can explore the life, philosophy and art of the iconic American painter. Step inside the historic home where The Joy of Painting was filmed, and stand where Bob Ross painted at his easel. There is also a rotating gallery of Ross’s original artwork, usually centered on a theme.

Have Fun at the Muncie Children’s Museum

The Muncie Children’s Museum is the place for families to play! Located in downtown Muncie, you’ll find a mix of interactive exhibits and educational exploration. Kids can climb around the Ant Wall, learn about animals in the barnyard, play pretend in the marketplace-style play zones, explore STEM concepts at the water table, and gaze at miniature trains as they make their way around a miniature Muncie landscape.

A fun place for hands-on play, the Muncie Children’s Museum is great for kids ages 12 and younger, but kids of all ages will find something engaging here.

See Priceless Art + Artifacts at the David Owsley Museum of Art

Located on the campus of Ball State University, the David Owsley Museum of Art (DOMA) is a hidden gem for art lovers and families alike. Housed in the university’s fine arts building, the museum offers visitors more than 11,000 art and artifacts from cultures all around the world. You will see everything from African masks and classical European paintings, to modern American works and Asian textiles, all located in a beautiful museum that’s free and open to the public.

Learn About Plants + Flowers at the Rinard Orchid Greenhouse

While you’re on the Ball State campus, stop by the Rinard Orchid Greenhouse, a lush, tropical escape right here in Muncie. This 3,400-square-foot greenhouse contains the largest university-based orchid collection in the United States, with more than 2,000 orchids! The greenhouse is organized into different climate zones — from warm, humid spaces where tropical orchids hang overhead, to a cooler mountain climate section where carnivorous plants thrive. You’ll also find banana plants, cacao, figs, and other edible tropical plants growing. Best of all, it’s free to visit!

Shop Local at the Muncie Makers Market at Madjax

If you happen to be in Muncie on the first Thursday of the month, make a point to visit the Muncie Makers Market at Madjax Maker Force. This indoor market brings together local artisans, growers and makers, all under one roof. You’ll find a variety of handmade crafts, locally grown produce, live plants, unique art and homemade treats, all perfect for browsing or gift-giving. While you’re at MadJax, explore the huge repurposed factory itself, which has been turned into a creative hub with studios, maker spaces and live entertainment.

Soar High at the National Model Aviation Museum

The National Model Aviation Museum is a one-of-a-kind destination for families who love aviation, history and hands-on discovery. Visitors will find an enormous collection of flying model planes spanning decades, from early free-flight aircraft to intricate radio-control and control-line models. Exhibits include engines, original model kits, accessories and memorabilia — even a recreated 1950s-style hobby shop. The museum is open seasonally (typically May through October), though its virtual-tour and digital-collection features are available year-round on the website.

What to Eat in Muncie

Cammack Station

Located in a restored 1931 building that once served as a grocery and gas station, Cammack Station is a must-visit when you’re in Muncie. Popular options at this family-friendly restaurant include burgers, loaded fries, breaded tenderloin sandwiches and hand-dipped ice cream and frozen treats — in a setting that feels like you stepped back in time.

1925 Pubhouse

The menu at 1925 Pubhouse is perfect for families because it appeals to a wide range of tastes: smash burgers, fish, pasta, salads, and kid-friendly staples make it easy to satisfy everyone in your group. The pub has cozy vibes, with plenty of TVs all around to catch a game, and an outdoor courtyard that’s open when the weather is warm.

Twin Archer Brewpub

The laid-back Twin Archer Brewpub has two entrances: one for adults only that leads to the bar area, and the other for families, with books and games available for kids. The menu offers comforting favorites, like patty melts, nachos and burgers, plus a fish fry on Fridays.

The Guardian Brewing Company

Located inside the creative-hub space MadJax MakerForce, The Guardian Brewing Company is one of downtown Muncie’s go-to places for good food and local brews. Guardian offers a menu of pizzas, subs, salads, and other pub-style fare (be sure to get the fried ravioli!).

Concannon’s Pastry Shop

Concannon’s Pastry Shop is a beloved Muncie bakery, known for its freshly made donuts, cakes, pies and cookies. You’ll find display cases loaded with tempting treats like glazed and frosted donuts, “tiger-tail” twists of chocolate-and-vanilla dough, fruit-filled pies, cream-filled pastries and caramel popcorn. The bakery also features a coffee bar, house-roasted coffee, and a selection of gourmet chocolates.

Where to Stay in Muncie

When traveling with kids, the Courtyard by Marriott Muncie at Horizon Convention Center is a great option. This hotel sits right in the heart of downtown Muncie, and is just steps away from the Muncie Children’s Museum and many great restaurants and local attractions.

Families will appreciate the room amenities, like a microwave, refrigerator and complimentary high-speed WiFi. The hotel also offers an indoor swimming pool and a fitness center, plus an on-site cafe. Attached to the hotel is 1925 Pub House, which serves family-friendly meals in a relaxed environment.

For more ideas about what to see, do and experience in Muncie, Indiana, visit the Muncie Visitors Bureau at destinationmuncie.org.