There’s something about fall that makes you want to slow down a little, grab a warm drink, find a colorful trail, wander through a few local shops and end the day somewhere cozy. And you don’t have to travel far to make a full fall getaway out of it.
Whether you’re visiting Lafayette-West Lafayette for the first time, coming back for a Purdue weekend or you live nearby and simply need an excuse for a staycation, this itinerary mixes some of my favorite parts of fall: local food, outdoor exploring, shopping, live entertainment and a peaceful overnight stay.
Start With Breakfast at North End Cafe
Every good fall day should start with breakfast, so begin at North End Cafe in Lafayette.
Grab breakfast and coffee, take your time and fuel up before heading outdoors for the morning. Today isn’t about rushing from one place to the next, it’s about enjoying the stops along the way.
Find the Fall Colors at Prophetstown State Park
Next, head to Prophetstown State Park for some fresh air and fall color.
Pick a trail and spend the morning hiking, walking and taking in the changing landscape. This is one of those stops where you can make the day as active or as relaxed as you want. Visiting during October? There’s an extra reason to go: Trail of Scarecrows. Wander the trail and see the creative scarecrows along the way before continuing your fall adventure.
Make a Sweet Stop at Sweet Revolution
After a morning outside, it’s time for something sweet.
Head into Downtown Lafayette and stop at Sweet Revolution Bake Shop. Choose from their changing selection of pies and pastries and pair your pick with coffee, tea or another seasonal drink.
Spend the Afternoon Shopping Local
Stay downtown for a while and wander through the locally owned boutiques and shops along Main Street or turn the afternoon into a little record hunt. Browse the shelves at JL Records and make a stop at Von’s to see what you can find.
There doesn’t have to be a strict shopping list. Part of the fun is giving yourself enough time to wander, discover something new and support a few local businesses along the way.
Check Into The Whittaker Inn
When you’re ready to slow down, head to The Whittaker Inn in West Lafayette.
This is where the itinerary starts to feel like a true getaway. Settle into your room, enjoy the peaceful surroundings and give yourself a little downtime before dinner. Even if you live in Greater Lafayette, an overnight stay can completely change the way you experience your own community. There are no chores waiting at home, no need to rush through dinner and no reason not to make an entire weekend out of it.
Stay In for Dinner
Another perk of staying at The Whittaker? You don’t have to go far for dinner. Enjoy dinner at The Whittaker Kitchen, giving yourself plenty of time to relax before heading back downtown for the evening.
End the Night With Live Theatre
Finish your fall night with a performance from Civic Theatre of Greater Lafayette.
Check the current season before choosing your weekend and turn the show into the grand finale of your day. There’s something particularly fitting about ending a crisp fall evening inside a theatre, experiencing a story performed right here in the community. Then it’s back to The Whittaker for the night, no long drive home required.
One More Slow Morning
Don't rush out the next morning. Enjoy breakfast at The Whittaker, you can have it delivered to your room or dine downstairs at their restaurant. Sip a cup of coffee and take in the peaceful fall setting before checking out.
And just like that, you’ve packed a little outdoor adventure, local food, shopping, theatre and relaxation into one Greater Lafayette getaway without making the weekend feel packed at all!
The best fall getaway doesn’t always require a long road trip.
Save Cozy Corners & Colorful Trails for your next fall weekend in Lafayette-West Lafayette!
