We’ve all been there: head under the covers, blinds closed and ready to not move an inch all day. However, there are many benefits to getting up, slipping on your favorite pair of shoes and stepping outside. According to the American Psychological Association, being outdoors in green spaces lowers risk of depression and leads to faster stress recovery. Whether you’re putting on headphones and going on a walk or playing mini-golf with friends, here are five activities Muncie has to offer when it comes to having fun in the sun.
Minnetrista Museum & Gardens
The Minnetrista Museum and Gardens offers plenty of outdoor and indoor activities for visitors. The Museum offers numerous exhibits ranging from art to history, such as a Bob Ross exhibit and several events from Imagine in Glass and multiple galleries. The Garden, however, is a different story, as there are plenty of outdoor activities offered for all ages. From several gardens and trails, a garden fair, farmers markets, and fun games at Betty’s Cabin, the garden area of the location is packed with things to do. Not to mention, there are several seasonal events as well, including the winter Enchanted Luminaria Walk and the Faeries Sprites & Lights event taking place during the summer. https://www.minnetrista.net/
Cardinal Greenway Muncie Depot Trailhead
For anyone looking for a nature-themed adventure, or simply a long-distance bike ride or walk, the Cardinal Greenway is the perfect location. As the longest rail-trail in the state of Indiana at 62 miles, Cardinal Greenway starts in Marion and runs throughout East Central Indiana. This free trail offers travelers opportunities to visit multiple surrounding cities, such as Gas City and Gaston. But for anyone who wants bragging rights, completing the entire trail is also an option. https://cardinalgreenways.org/
Tuhey Park
This Muncie recreational space offers visitors several separate playgrounds and a mini-waterpark. The most notable playground, Tuhey Towers, is a large structure with multiple slides, stories, and bright colors. Even though the playground is well secured and blocked off with several guard-like fences, there is a smaller, less intense playground off to the side for younger children. The aquatic side includes a pool with slides, a lap pool, and a kiddie pool with a small playground. Regardless of whether anyone prefers land or water activities, Tuhey Park has it all. https://muncieparks.com/tuhey-park/
Boulder Falls Mini Golf and BatZone
This seasonal double mini-golf and bat-and-ball location offers activities for all ages. The mini-golf section contains 18 holes with a rock waterfall decoration and a downpour stream flowing around the course. The batting cages offer 12 pitches per token and adrenaline-rushing, ball-hitting fun. They also operate at late hours, so there’s no need to rush the golf course. https://www.boulderfallsminigolfandbatzone.com/
Tom Leaird’s Underwater Service
For anyone looking to take scuba diving or snorkeling lessons, Tom Leaird’s Underwater Service is their best bet. Whether simply wanting to try out a new hobby or earn a worldwide certification that never expires, instructors will train students in classes to take aquatic activities to the next level. Snorkeling classes are for all ages, but anyone looking to be a diver needs to be of at least 15 years of age. While the actual training takes place in an indoor facility, students eventually travel to the Phillips Outdoor Center, which is a recreational Scuba diving training site. https://www.leaird-scuba.com/
Sources: Minnetrista Museum & Gardens, Cardinal Greenway Muncie Depot Trailhead, Tuhey Park, Boulder Falls Mini Golf and BatZone, Tom Leaird’s Underwater Service
