The fall semester is here, and while the beginning of semester can bring forth a whirlwind of activities, everyone needs a break from classes every now and then to enjoy some time away from campus. So before the weather gets chilly, here are some fun outdoor activities close to campus you can try out when you need that break.

Indianapolis Indians Game
If you haven’t had the chance to enjoy a hotdog and cheer on the Indianapolis Indians at Victory Field, you are missing out. Is there any better way to spend a warm, sunny evening than at a baseball game? Victory Field offers a family-friendly atmosphere, excellent views, and a variety of concessions. You also can’t pass up on the great deals throughout the week, with $1 concession nights and half-off tickets for Wednesday’s games. Along with this, attend a game on a Friday and you will have the chance to enjoy fireworks.

Whether you are a die-hard baseball fan or just looking for something to do with friends, an Indianapolis Indians game promises a perfect outing. And good news–since Butler University is only five miles away from downtown Indianapolis, an Indians game is a short drive away!

Indianapolis Zoo
Located at the White River State Park, the Indianapolis Zoo is a great place to take advantage of when you are in need of a break. And better yet, the rhinos are officially back!

With over 1,400 animals, you can spend hours at the Indianapolis Zoo by observing primates at the International Orangutan Center, watching a dolphin show, or feeding a giraffe. And for plant lovers, you can take a scroll through White River Gardens and see a wide variety of plants, flowers, and landscapes. There’s also the carousel ride, which is fun no matter how old you are. Grab some food and a drink (available in environmentally friendly containers!) at the various cafes and you have a whole day planned out. The Indianapolis Zoo also has great opportunities for internships, volunteering, and post-college jobs, especially since it is not too far from campus. 

Drive-In Movie Theater
Looking for a way to spend an evening with friends? Time to go old-school with a drive-in! 

Grab some snacks, blankets, and your car and get cozy under the stars at a drive-in movie theater. The closest drive-in, Tibbs Drive-In Theater, is only a 20 minute drive from campus and is open Thursday-Monday. Operating since 1967, Tibbs Drive-In Theater features classic movies and current releases and has four screens, so you have plenty of movie choices. If you are wanting a fun date night, an inexpensive family outing, or are just a big movie buff, hitting up a drive-in would be a great fit for you. 

There are also other drive-ins within Indiana, including M.E.L.S at the Starlite Drive-In (a 35 minute drive from campus) and CenterBrook Drive-In (45 minutes from campus). 

Farmers Market
Take a trip to a local farmers market, the best place to buy fresh, quality produce and handmade goodies. You will also have the chance to support local small businesses!

The Broad Ripple Farmers Market is an easy bike ride from campus, so you can spend your Saturday mornings, rain or shine, strolling through the rows of vendors. The summer market is open May–September from 8 a.m. to noon, 9 a.m. to noon in October, and there is a winter market from November to April. The market features a wide variety of vendors, including small businesses that sell baked goods, pastries, flowers, pottery, coffee, tea and more. For pet owners, you can snag your dog some homemade treats (or better yet, just take your dog with you!) or you can buy some yummy food for yourself, such as breakfast pizzas, dumplings, and popcorn. 

Indianapolis Cultural Trail
Connecting to the city’s coolest neighborhoods and downtown landmarks, the Indianapolis Culture Trail is a convenient and fun way to explore Indy while getting your steps in. 

The trail is an 8-mile bike and pedestrian path in downtown Indianapolis and connects all six of Indy’s Cultural Districts–Broad Ripple (only a couple miles away from campus!), The Canal & White River State Park, Fountain Square, Indiana Avenue, Mass Ave, and The Wholesale District. These districts are homes to museums, theaters, shops, restaurants, and parks. You can enjoy the trail by biking, roller skating, or by simply walking. There is no official start or end to the trail, so you do not need to worry about where to begin or finish your journey. You can also partake in a guided tour. 

A new expansion just opened this summer, so the trail now connects to the Madam Walker Legacy Center on Indiana Avenue. An additional segment along South Street will open later this year.  Happy walking!