Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Muncie, Indiana

The seat of Delaware County in East Central Indiana originated as a Lenape (Delaware) village along the White River in the late 18th century.

It is challenging to discuss Muncie without referencing the Ball brothers, five industrialist siblings who relocated their glass factory here from Buffalo in the 1880s during the Indiana gas boom.

Renowned for manufacturing canning jars, the Balls significantly shaped local life and ultimately became benefactors of Ball State University, which remains a vital component of Muncie’s economy and culture, boasting over 21,500 students at the last count.

Among the notable alumni is Jim Davis, the creator of Garfield, who was born nearby in Marion, while during the 1980s and early 1990s, Bob Ross filmed his beloved show, The Joy of Painting, at a PBS station in Muncie.

1. Minnetrista

In the early 1890s, the Ball family acquired a substantial portion of land along the north bank of the White River for their estate.

This estate was named Minnetrista, a new term meaning “gathering place by the water.” Most of the brothers’ mansions remain intact, and their gardens and grounds provide an elegant setting for leisurely strolls.

Oakhurst (1895), the residence of George Alexander Ball, is accessible to the public for guided tours, featuring a first floor furnished as it was in the 1920s. The Minnetrista Cultural Center, funded by the Ball Brothers Foundation, opened in 1988 on the premises.

The main center building showcases engaging exhibitions on diverse topics, ranging from regional history to contemporary issues such as the opioid crisis.

During summer Saturdays, the campus hosts a popular farmers’ market and engages the community through glassmaking and painting workshops, one-off markets, lectures, performing arts, and seasonal festivities.

2. David Owsley Museum of Art

A highlight in Muncie is this outstanding art museum located on the Quad, which offers free public admission.

The David Owsley Museum of Art resides within the Collegiate Gothic Fine Arts Building, which was established in 1936.

The museum is named in honor of David T. Owsley, the grandson of Frank C. Ball, one of the five Ball brothers, and boasts an extensive collection of over 11,000 artworks, with a portion personally curated by the Ball family.

The collection spans various periods and styles, including Modern and Contemporary Art, Ancient art, and European fine art, along with numerous pieces from Africa, Oceania, and Asia.

Special emphasis is placed on the Hoosier Group of Impressionists and Ancient Greek and Roman coins. The museum also features notable temporary exhibits and maintains a busy schedule of tours and special events throughout the year.

3. Downtown Muncie

It can be confidently stated that Muncie’s central commercial district warrants your attention now more than ever.

Reflecting a trend observed in cities nationwide, the downtown area of Muncie has experienced revitalization over the past two decades, transforming into a welcoming community eager to narrate its history.

Set against a backdrop of elegant 19th-century architecture and enhanced sidewalks, the area boasts an array of bars and restaurants, an unexpected variety of entertainment venues, and nearly 30 unique retail shops not found elsewhere.

Downtown Muncie hosts 50 days of events annually, with “First Thursday” being a prominent occasion where visitors can explore the city’s vibrant arts scene.

4. Cardinal Greenway

Muncie is linked by Indiana’s longest rail trail, the Cardinal Greenway, which extends over 60 miles across five counties in East Central Indiana.

This trail utilizes the right-of-way of a former CSX freight railroad and has been opening in phases since the corridor was acquired by a non-profit organization from CSX in 1993.

The trail holds particular significance in Muncie, as the Cincinnati, Richmond, and Muncie Depot (1901) serves as the visitor center for the entire trail system.

This beautifully restored station contains an array of artifacts and photographs detailing the region’s railroad history. As it traverses from Richmond to Marion, the trail hugs the White River in Muncie, connecting with the White River Greenway Trail before veering north toward McCulloch Park.

5. Bob Ross Experience

Few are aware that the cherished PBS instructional art show, The Joy of Painting, was filmed in Muncie at the local PBS member station, WIPB.

From 1983 to 1994, Bob Ross became a beloved figure in countless American households, admired for his gentle demeanor, soothing voice, and artistic prowess.

The studio is located in the historic Lucius L. Ball House on the Minnetrista campus and has been transformed into a visitor attraction.

Visitors can explore a meticulously recreated studio, view a selection of Ross’s artwork, and examine personal items such as his hair pick, easel, palette, and brushes.

Additionally, there is a living room styled from the Reagan era, temporary art exhibits, and regular painting workshops that embody Ross’s signature positivity.

6. National Model Aviation Museum

Located in the countryside just east of Muncie, along State Road 67, is a vast complex dedicated entirely to model aviation.

This site, known as the International Aeromodeling Center (IAC), sprawls over 1,100 acres and features facilities catering to all elements of aeromodeling.

During the summer months, visitors can explore the National Model Aviation Museum, which boasts an impressive collection of over 11,000 artifacts.

Exhibits are well-arranged in display cases and suspended from the ceiling, showcasing numerous free flight, control line, and radio control aircraft, along with a comprehensive catalog of accessories and memorabilia, including event patches and antique literature.

The center also offers flying facilities for various types of aeromodeling, making it possible to witness demonstrations or competitions during your visit.

7. Muncie Children’s Museum

Founded in the 1970s by a philanthropic sorority, the Muncie Children’s Museum has been situated within a wing of the Horizon Convention Center downtown since 1996.

This expansive facility spans 24,000 square feet, providing ample room for hands-on and open-ended exhibits.

Among the many attractions, children can experiment with the dynamics of flowing water at Water Works, learn basic animal care skills in the Veterinarian Office, operate vehicles in The Big Rig, explore healthy eating choices in the Nutrition area, and simulate shopping experiences at Marsh Market.

There are plenty of opportunities for young visitors to be active, especially at the Tot Spot dedicated to toddlers and the Discovery Park, which contains live animals in terrariums.

8. Made in Muncie Pottery

Unleash your creativity at this studio and gallery located in downtown Muncie. Made in Muncie welcomes walk-ins, allowing you to comfortably begin crafting your unique piece.

The process begins with selecting from a range of molded or hand-thrown bisque (unglazed pottery that has been fired once), allowing you to create a custom design.

The staff is on hand to assist, providing brushes, stencils, sponges, and other materials, as well as expert design advice. Once you are satisfied with your creation, it will be glazed and fired a second time, with the finished piece available for pickup approximately one week later.

Made in Muncie also organizes workshops and private lessons for those interested in learning more about pottery-making techniques, including wheel work, glazing, and firing.

9. Muncie Civic Theatre

A cornerstone of Muncie’s arts community for over a century, the Muncie Civic Theatre is a cherished venue for showcasing local talent.

Situated in the elegant Boyce Block, constructed in 1880, the western section was sold in 1904 to create an 800-seat stage for vaudeville and burlesque performances. Notable performers of that era include the Marx Brothers and Red Skelton.

In 1961, this venue became home to the Muncie Civic Theatre, founded three decades earlier by William H. Ball, the son of William C. Ball from the Ball Brothers.

More than 60 years later, the recently renovated theatre boasts excellent facilities, ensuring that every seat offers a great view. Visitors can enjoy exceptional mainstage performances, from musicals to comedies and dramas, alongside a robust program of youth and children’s shows.

10. Emens Auditorium

Another cultural institution in Muncie is this spacious auditorium located on the Ball State campus, which was completed in 1964 and accommodates 3,581 spectators.

In addition to hosting university events, Emens Auditorium serves as a prominent performing arts venue for the eastern Indiana region.

The calendar is replete with Broadway productions, stand-up comedy acts, dance performances, notable speakers, and concerts featuring renowned touring artists, as well as the Muncie Symphony.

Notable performers who have graced the stage include Louis Armstrong, Igor Stravinsky, Simon and Garfunkel, Stevie Wonder, Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan, Dave Chappelle, George Carlin, Neil Young, and several political figures including Henry Kissinger, Gerald Ford, Jimmy Carter, and Ronald Reagan.

11. McCulloch Park

Situated on the northern bank of the White River, Muncie’s largest community park is only a few minutes from downtown.

McCulloch Park dates back to the 1890s and is named after George F. McCulloch, the newspaper publisher who donated these 118 acres to the city. His statue is located on the southern side of the park.

The park has a long-standing association with baseball, featuring a field that hosted two brief local professional teams, as well as serving as the spring training site for the Pittsburgh Pirates during World War II.

Among the numerous amenities available at the park are a hill suitable for soapbox derbies and sledding, an 18-hole disc golf course, playgrounds, picnic shelters, basketball courts, and a cabin available for rent.

12. Boulder Falls Mini Golf and Batzone

Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for summer activities in Muncie might consider this mini golf course and batting cage venue situated on the northwest side of the city.

As the name implies, the 18-hole course is set against rugged landscaping, featuring a waterfall that cascades down boulders, flowing into a creek that meanders through the course.

Without whimsical obstacles, the course offers well-designed holes that provide a challenge while maintaining an element of fun.

Throughout the season, which lasts until just after Halloween, various seasonal events unfold. The batting cages are also reasonably priced; as per the information available during the article’s writing, 144 balls could be hit for as little as $11.

For a delightful post-game treat, do not forget to visit the Frozen Boulder ice cream shop located conveniently across the parking lot.

13. Ball State Cardinals

Having a university nearby provides the community with a spectrum of high-quality sporting events.

During the academic year, Ball State University fields 18 Division I athletic teams, inviting the community to show support for the Cardinals.

The largest venue is the Scheumann Stadium, with a capacity of 22,500, which opened in 1967 and serves as the home ground for the football team.

The Cardinals have won four division championships in their history, with a notable peak in 2008 when they attained a national ranking of 12th, achieving an undefeated regular season record of 12-0.

You can also attend men’s and women’s basketball games at the Worthen Arena, which opened in 1992 and accommodates 11,500 spectators, featuring cutting-edge video screens and scoreboards installed in 2015.

14. Indiana Glass Trail

The Ball brothers bestowed Muncie a substantial economic boost in the 1880s when they moved their glass manufacturing company from Buffalo, NY, due to the region’s abundant natural gas.

Today, Minnetrista and the Ball family estates in Muncie are part of a tourism trail focused on glass-making that spans five states in Indiana.

For those interested in this history, a historical marker is located at the site of the Balls’ factory, at 1401 East Memorial Drive in Muncie.

Furthermore, the Marilyn K. Glick Center for Glass at Ball State University continues the legacy of glassmaking in Muncie, featuring viewing windows in the front atrium to observe artists at work in the hot shop.

Around 20 minutes from Muncie in Dunkirk, there exists an excellent museum dedicated to the area’s glass manufacturing history, housing 8,000 pieces of glassware.

At Minnetrista, visitors can also acquire exquisite pieces made by the Ball State Glass Guild at Minnetrista’s Orchard Shop.

15. Delaware County Fair

The expansive Delaware County Fairgrounds, located adjacent to Minnetrista, serve as a venue for numerous arts and crafts fairs, livestock exhibitions, swap meets, flea markets, and concerts throughout the year.

However, the most notable and eagerly anticipated event is the week-long Delaware County Fair, which has its origins tracing back to the 1830s.

In keeping with tradition, an All Horse Parade takes place in Muncie on the Sunday preceding the fair, featuring horses, ponies, marching bands, wagons, and carriages, representing one of the largest horse gatherings east of the Mississippi.

As has been the case since the early days, livestock and agriculture exhibits remain central to the fair, supplemented by carnival rides, games, and an extensive schedule of motorsport events alongside familiar fair foods.

Additionally, there are five days of harness horse racing set on a track considered the fastest half-mile in the world, culminating in the renowned Little Brown Jug race.