As college students, whenever the words “no class” are used, a fun adventure awaits. Purdue, along with probably many other universities, has quite a few breaks during both the fall and spring semesters. Between Labor Day, Fall Break, Thanksgiving, and Christmas in the fall, to Martin Luther King Day, Spring Break, and Easter weekend in the spring, there are plenty of times to visit a new place and do some exploring.
These five cities lie within the states surrounding Indiana, along with one mapped right in the middle of the state. They are perfect for those weekends you just want to get away from campus and do some traveling with your friends.
- Chicago, Illinois
Even though Chicago is nicknamed the Windy City, don’t let that discourage you from spending the weekend by this lakefront strip of beauty. Only two hours away from campus, the drive is always worth what awaits. Home of the Willis Tower (Sears Tower for all the Chicago lovers), the Cubs, pizza and a Magnificent Mile of shopping on Michigan Avenue; there is never a dull moment in this city. Millennium Park is beautiful in the winter with its ice rinks and stringed lights. And nothing beats catching a Bears game at Soldier Field in fall or seeing the Chicago River dyed green during St. Patrick’s Day in the spring. Whether you like deep dish or thin crust, make you make a stop at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s to munch on a hot slice of Chicago pizza, but don’t forget to grab a bag of Garrett’s popcorn on the way out (Make sure you get there early as the line is always out the door). A Chicago dog is always a good choice too.
2. Cleveland, Ohio
If you are into rock, roll on over to Cleveland. Home of rock and roll music, this city will always bring a good time. Located just West of the Pennsylvania border and about five hours from Purdue, Cleveland is a great place to go out and explore. Along with its music scene, the city is home to the Cleveland Browns, and some pretty spectacular restaurants, including Melt, where you can get anything from mac and cheese to lasagna on a grilled cheese sandwich. I don’t know about you, but that seems like a good enough reason to make the drive! And clearly Cleveland is not lacking in the arts department as it has tons of different museums to brush up on the history of the city. Don’t forget to make it to a show, as theatre is a prime attraction for Cleveland dwellers.
3. Nashville, Tennessee
Nashville, Tennessee, the music hub of the world. There is something iconic everywhere you turn. Between the street art, shopping, food and the music, you will never have a dull moment. Nashville is the longest of trips from Purdue, coming close to a five-and-a-half-hour drive. Luckily, it is a straight shot on the highway from campus. As far as music is concerned, you can go anywhere to experience the magic. Home of both Vanderbilt University and Belmont University, Nashville is a great place for college students to congregate. Lots of the shopping is trendy boutiques that any college girl would drool over. And in case you are in the mood for some chicken, Nashville is known for its hot chicken (spicy fried chicken) and Hattie B’s is the best place to get some. Make sure you also get your breakfast cravings at Biscuit Love. Bonuts, also known as biscuit doughnuts, are a can’t-miss delicacy.
4. Indianapolis, Indiana
Thank you Indy for being so close, yet so great. While it is smaller than the other cities, it’s still mighty. Located about 45 minutes from campus, Indianapolis is as a great city to have some fun in without leaving the state. Circle Center is the city’s hub for both shopping and city life. Indy also has a great music scene whether it is outside at White River State Park or inside at Old National Centre. You will never be disappointed. And don’t forget this city is the home of Lucas Oil Stadium where the Colts play. If you want to step outside of the inner city, make sure you check out The Fashion Mall at Keystone loaded with all the top of the line stores and restaurants that will make your mouth water. It is a perfect place to shop ‘til you drop.
5. Grand Rapids, Michigan
Oh the mitten state, how could you ever go wrong? The beautiful scenery that lines the highways of Michigan make you feel like you are in a dream land. It is a great place to pull over and just take in the scenery. Make sure to hit Holland, Michigan on the way there. The streets are lined with little shops and cafes that you will want to spend hours in. And plus, it is right by the beach. Grand Rapids is about three hours away, but don’t let that stop you from visiting for a relaxing weekend. Downtown Market, should be the first place you check out while exploring the city. It houses tons of different specialty food boutiques, and also a farmer’s market. Kick back at Slows Bar-B-Q and let your stomach do the talking. It serves up great barbecue along with Southern sides you just can’t get enough of. Be sure to check out the streets of the city afterwards for a great time at the pubs with your friends.
So hit the road and don’t look back. These cities are all different and unique, but they all have that one thing that doesn’t get old: greatness. Don’t hesitate to explore the cities and make a dull weekend one to tell when you’re dragging in class Monday morning. Nothing like some great memories to wake you up.