We had the opportunity to be in Frankfurt, IN so we decided to make a weekend of it. We stopped in for a quick beer at Taeys River, which had decent brews and wood fired pizza (which we didn’t try, but smelled delicious), before checking into our Airbnb that was conveniently located in downtown Lafayette above a comic book shop.

Our dinner reservations weren’t until 7:30, which wasn’t going to fly because we were both starving. So we called 501 Bistro and talked to Mary, who graciously set us up with the best table in the joint for 5:30. It was a weird night in town because unbeknownst to us Purdue was playing IU at Mackey Arena starting at 8:00.

501 Bistro is a local tradition and had the hand cut French fries and burgers to justify its reputation. And on top of the beautiful surroundings, fantastic food, and stellar service, the owner’s mother Mary was an absolute charm. She sat and shared the story of the restaurant’s current iteration of ownership and even invited us next door to see their East Coast deli, which is beautifully situated in a very grand former hotel lobby.

What a space! Lafayette, IN was definitely a surprise, full of unique shops, local restaurants, and fun, friendly bars.

We jetted out of town after a quick cappuccino at Wanderlust, which was the best since our travels in Europe, and bagel sandwiches among the artsy surroundings at Eleventh House.

Only 50 minutes south are two of Indiana’s most beautiful state parks. We spent an invigorating hour+ amongst the ravines and ridges of Shades. 42 and sunny in mid-February? Yes, please!

We stopped at Klooz Brewz in Lebanon, IN because it was both on our way home and we like beer. Let’s just say the giant pretzel and smash burger were both pretty spectacular. We’ll leave it there…

It’s Sunday and there’s a big football game going on tonight. We’re looking forward to the rugby 6 nations and a peach Old Hamer old fashioned, thanks to a quick stop en route. Enjoy!