A glimpse of European living can be found through the streets of downtown Lafayette, Indiana. Nestled in the heart midwest America, Lafayette’s charms transport you on a cultured adventure across the pond. Take a day to stroll and soak up an adventure reminiscent of Europe’s most favored sights. Bon voyage!
Start your adventure later in the afternoon in true laid back European style to fully immerse yourself in the simple “je ne sais quoi” of life. Your first stop should be Réveille Coffee Bar for an espresso beverage to ease you into your excursion. Réveille, which means “to wake up” in French, truly embodies a cozy Parisian café. This café transforms into a wine bar at night, making it a quintessential stop on your European adventure.
Stroll through the storefronts of downtown Lafayette and imagine yourself wandering through the streets of a quaint European village. First, step inside Scones and Doilies, a simply adorable bakery owned by a family from Albania! Their impressive display case is filled with indulgent pastries, whose delicious scent wafts through the aesthetic lobby. Then wander by nearby storefronts, like Rose Market, Flora Candle Company, and Scout for the latest chic fashions. Rubia Flower Market is close by and modeled after European florist shoppes, which makes for an exquisite photo spot!
A short ride away from the hustle and bustle of downtown will bring you to the grand Haan Museum of Indiana Art. Nestled in a tranquil neighborhood, this historic mansion stands majestic on a calm grassy hill, much like the antique castles of the Old World. The estate boasts stone ionic columns, an outdoor art path, and sculpture garden. The museum inside features ornate furniture and decorations, including a Tiffany Crystal grandfather clock. The pièce de résistance, paintings from Indiana’s impressionist artists line the walls, giving a calming and cultured presence to the sophisticated walls. The Haan Museum encapsulates the historical charms and artifacts you might find on an escapade through Europe’s diverse destinations.
Bon appétit! For dinner, visit Bistro 501 for simple, rustic fare inspired by the countryside of France. They serve classic French cuisine, like steak tartare, pomme frites, and even escargot. This eatery is the perfect spot to soak in the energy and aesthetic of a relaxing European evening. La Scala is a slightly more upscale option, perfect for an elegant date night or just to enjoy a bowl of authentic Italian pasta. They grow and source their products locally, cultivating a little piece of Italy right here in Indiana. Slow down and unwind from your day by sipping a glass of wine on their outdoor patio and watching the people meander by.
And for the grand finale, finish your day with a morsel of “la dolce vita” at The Lobby by Greyhouse. The Lobby is a sophisticated coffee and cocktail establishment which presents a refined food and beverage menu. Enjoy an earl grey cocktail or a crème brûlée latte for a sweet nightcap. Their espresso and chai tea martinis pay homage to the classics while their food menu offers seasonal twists on traditional small plates. From an inspiring charcuterie spread, to a rustic burrata plate, to a fresh falafel and hummus platter, The Lobby’s menu takes your taste buds on a gastronomic trip around the world.
You don’t have to travel far to find classic European charm and culture. This can be found right here at home in Lafayette, Indiana! Discover a life like no other and enjoy the simple pleasures though every step, sip, and sight downtown Lafayette has to offer. Arrievederci!
