Picture a city with a riverfront like a neon-lit disco party thrown by Mother Nature, a mall with a vintage vibe, and a cat cafe where you can sip your latte while cuddling adorable adoptable kitties. That's Evansville for you.
Hike through lush forests at Wesselman Woods, kayak down the mighty Ohio River, or dig into ancient mysteries at Angel Mounds. Immerse yourself in art at the Evansville Museum, or tap your feet to live music at the lively Downtown Evansville Historic District.
1. Start Your Morning Fresh With A Magical Java
Before you actually start your Evansville Indiana to-do list, how does a kick of magical java sound? If that interests you, look no further than River Kitty Cat Cafe.
Their menu features coffee classics like lattes, cappuccinos, and smoothies, so expect decent caffeine satisfaction. However, the main draw is the chance to sip your drink surrounded by adorable, adoptable cats! It's a unique experience for cat lovers or anyone seeking a heartwarming ambiance.
2. Shop Till You Drop At Eastland Mall
This single-level mall houses over 100 stores. That means you'll find a decent mix of local gems and national brands like American Eagle and Bath & Body Works.
These things to do Evansville Indiana don't complete without refueling, and Eastland Mall delivers. From classic fast food chains to sit-down options, you'll find something to satisfy every carving. Plus, their carousel adds a touch of whimsy to your dining experience.
3. Walk Along The Evansville Riverfront
Breathe in the fresh air and soak up the sun as you meander along the Ohio River's edge. But here's the twist: towering neon signs from casinos paint the night sky, creating a unique blend of natural beauty and urban energy.
If you're lucky enough to visit during a festival, prepare to be swept away! From the lively Ribfest with its smoky aroma to the quirky Mesker Park Zoo Fest, there are always things to do in Evansville IN, to celebrate along the Riverfront.
4. Catch A Show At Victory Theatre
With 1,950 seating capacity, Victory Theatre hosts a diverse range of events, from live music and comedy shows to a classic theatrical production. The iconic rock band and tribute acts are their regular.
Need a good chuckle after tiring things to do Evansville IN? They've got your back covered! Stand-up comedians like Gary Owen and Etta May & The Southern Fried Chicks will have you rolling in the aisles.
5. Admire The Victorian Architecture At The Reitz Home Museum
This Victorian mansion is like a living time capsule, transporting you back to the opulent lifestyle of the late 19th century. Expect silk damask walls, hand-painted ceilings, and intricate woodwork – it's pure eye candy for architecture enthusiasts.
Designed in the French Second Empire style, the Reitz Home is one of the finest attractions in Evansville of the architectural movement in the country. Its mansard roof, elaborate ornamentation, and grand scale are sure to impress.
6. Try Your Luck At Bally's Evansville Casino
Feeling lucky? Bally's Evansville Casino is your spot if you're looking to try your luck. It's got a massive casino floor with over 900 slots and 28 table games, so you're sure to find something that tickles your fancy.
Make yourself at home in any of the lavish rooms in the luxury hotel if you get late while gambling. Each room features resort-inspired amenities to make your stay pleasant and memorable.
7. Admire The Old Evansville Courthouse
This grand structure opened in the 1890s stuns with its Second Empire style. Think towering columns, intricate brickwork, and a majestic dome dominating the skyline. It's like stepping into a scene from a historical novel.
Within its walls, trials, marriages, and countless stories unfolded. Today, the Old Courthouse is a vibrant community hub. It houses art exhibits, educational programs, and even weddings, breathing new life into its historic bones.
8. Catch A Match At Deaconess Sports Park
Owned and operated by the Evansville Convention and Vostotes Bureau, Deaconess Park boasts a field complex. Don't want to play on their turf? No worries, you can still watch a game.
Cheer on the Evansville Otters, a minor league affiliate of the St. Louis Cardinals, as they swing for the fences. Many local softball teams practice under the Indiana sun here. Or, you might get lucky to witness the match of future soccer stars with the Evansville Aces, a USL League Two team.
9. Meet The Animals At Mesker Park Zoo
Open 365 days a year, Mesker Park Zoo throws you into the animal kingdom with naturalistic exhibits like the interactive Lorikeet Landing. Go beyond just looking!
Meet a howler monkey in its treetop home or even get nose-to-nose with a friendly giraffe during a feeding experience. Besides the animals, there's a wildlife carousel featuring 30 endangered animals. The 2.5-minute ride costs $2 or two tokens.
10. Traverse Angel Mounds State Historic Site
Covering over 600 acres of land, Angel Mounds State Historic Site nourishes visitors with a thousand years old Native American cultures. Doesn't it sound among those absolute things to do Evansville?
Explore recreated Mississippian structures and imagine daily life in this ancient civilization. Capture stunning photos of the majestic mounds, the lush greenery, and the breathtaking river views. Your friends will be asking, "Where is this magical place?!"
11. Find Your Favorite Book At Willard Public Library
Welcoming all the bookworms and word nerds, Willard Public Library might be the most beautiful place you've ever been in Indiana. The grand architecture, with its Victorian Gothic flourishes and towering ceilings, whispers tales of times gone by.
Sink into a plush armchair bathed in warm sunlight streaming through stained-glass windows. Let the world melt away as you dive into a captivating narrative. The only sound is the gentle turning of pages and the distant hum of contented fellow bookworms.
12. A Round Of Golf At Walther's Golf & Fun
This all-weather amusement park features two dual mini golf courses, among which you can choose according to your preference. Both tropical indoor and outdoor adventure courses offer challenging and visually appealing holes.
Craving more variety? Head to the Lazer Tag arena for a futuristic battle, or challenge your friends to a mini-bowling game. The laser tag arena provides a competitive thrill, the arcade has plenty of challenging games, and the atmosphere is upbeat and dynamic.
13. Be The Part Of West Side Nut Club Fall Festival
Celebrating since 1921, this long-standing tradition brings generations together for a week of fun every October. Over 150,000 people attend, and over 137 food booths tantalize your taste buds with culinary delights.
Likewise, thrill rides, games of chance, and classic carnival attractions provide something for thrill-seekers. Mark your calendar for October 06, 2024. This year, the week-long gala along Franklin Street will come again with exceptional things to do in Evansville Indiana.
14. Inspire Your Kids At Children's Museum of Evansville
The Koch Family musuem aims to spark curious minds and kids' imaginations through dynamic exhibited. Since 1931, it has been following the learning-through-play policy.
They design exhibits that are not only educational but also incredibly fun, where kids can climb, crawl, create, and discover naturally. They dive into hands-on experiences, from building a city in "Construction Zone" to creating masterpieces in "ArtVille." Each exhibit sparks curiosity and encourages exploration.
15. Organize A Family Picnic At Wesselman Woods
You don't need to travel far for your family to cherish as long as Wesselman Woods is open to the public. Grab your picnic basket and choose your perfect spot, whether under the shade of a towering oak or near the babbling brook.
This nature preserve is a haven for little explorers, with climbing structures, water features, and natural materials to ignite their imagination. Moreover, they host events throughout the year. If you visit on March 2nd, attend the Maple Sugarbush Festival.
16. Ride Your Bike To Ohio Street Bridge
Begin your journey from Pigeon Creek Greenway's direct path via Garvin Park. If not, you can choose the scenic route that keeps you mostly on the freeway and riverfront trail until you reach the Ohio Street Bridge.
If you travel during the dusk, try to reach before the sun goes down the horizon. Witnessing the sunset from the bridge is something you won't want to miss. Don't forget to capture your next Insta feeds.
17. Go Fishing At Burdette Park
Get ready to cast a line and enjoy some peace on the water. Burdette Park is stocked with various fish species like bluegill, crappie, and largemouth bass.
Just make sure you have an Indiana fishing license. You can purchase it online or at various local sporting goods stores. Leaving the main attraction aside, paddle boat, splash pad, picnic ground, these things to do in Evansville are also possible here.
18. Take A Walking Tour Of Downtown Evansville
The central business district is a melting pot of fun activities to do in Evansville. Whether you're a history buff, an art fanatic, or a foodie on a mission, Downtown Evansville never disappoints!
From the Evansville Museum of Arts, History & Science's diverse collections to the Koch Center for the Arts rotating exhibits, find your artistic muse amidst stunning paintings, sculptures, and installations. Don't miss the lively atmosphere on Friday evenings when the town comes alive with live music and street performers.
19. Hours Of Fun At High Score Saloon
The trending video arcade in Downtown Evansville has been serving the community since 2017. The High Score Saloon features pinball, arcade, craft brews, and many more to keep you entertained for an hour or two!
For your information, this is the first adult arcade in the region boasting 45+ classic arcades, other amusement machines, and consoles. Making it a budget-friendly option, you can try every game in the house for $10 all day free play.
20. Go Wine Tasting At Winzerwald Winery
Relish small plates and luscious bites at Winzerwald Winery while tasting their award-winning wines. Not only the wines but the food are also inspired by the German ancestors.
Pinot Meunier, Riesling, and Mai Wein are some of the must-try. If you haven't tried any of them, visit the winery for their next event. They are hosting "Sip In The Eclipse" on April 8th Monday. Watch the celestial event from atop a hill with a glass of wine.
