Indiana One-Tank Trips: Part 1 (Holidays)

The kids are getting older, and the time together seems more fleeting. The memories created together during the holidays are nostalgic and full of fun. Here are a few of our current and past favorites! The best part—none is more than an hour from Greater Lafayette! And some are just down the street!

1) Christmas at the Zoo

Indianapolis Zoo | ~60 min

• Walk-through experience with animal encounters, lights, hot cocoa
• Feels more magical than a generic light display
• Go early so you see animals before they go to bed
  Est. Cost: $20–$30 per person
  Good for: Family or girlfriends who like strolling and photos

2) Winterlights at Newfields

Indianapolis | ~60 min

• Probably the most beautiful holiday experience in Indiana
• Gardens fully transformed with light art, tunnel walk, bar stations
• The mansion is decked out too
  Est. Cost: ~$30–$35 per person
  Good for: Date night, girlfriends, “this will look great on Instagram”

3) Holidays at the Haan

Lafayette  |  0 min

• Local Historic mansion decorated floor-to-ceiling
• Trees, lights and decorations in nearly every room!
• Look for the trains!
  Est. Cost: $12–$15
  Good for: A short, memorable holiday excursion

4) Christmas at the Seiberling Mansion

Kokomo | 45 min

• Historic Victorian mansion decorated floor-to-ceiling
• Holiday tour and usually Santa events
• Architecture alone is worth it
  Est. Cost: $10–$15
  Good for: A slower-paced, classy holiday vibe

5) Dull’s Tree Farm — Season of Lights & Holiday Fun

Thorntown | 35–40 min

• Hayrides, hot cocoa, the cutest farm vibes
• Tree cutting + kids activities
  Est. Cost: Free admission; pay for activities/tree
  Good for: Family tradition and photos that feel “Hallmark”

6) Frankfort Festival of Lights at TPA Park

Frankfort | 25 min

• Walk-or-drive-through light displays
• Shorter outing but easy, festive, nostalgic
  Est. Cost: Small donation
  Good for: Weeknight quick holiday fix

7) Local Winery Holiday Nights

Rabbit Ridge Winery (Rensselaer | 50 min)
Whyte Horse Winery (Monticello | 35 min)

• Tastings, lights, holiday events
• Live music nights here and there
  Good for: Adults only, cozy night out

8) Ice Skating & Lights at Tapawingo Park

West Lafayette | 0 min

• Ice rink + riverfront lights + cocoa downtown
• Easy “we’re home on time” holiday adventure
  Good for: Something festive on a busy week

9) Civic Theatre Holiday Show

Downtown Lafayette | 5 min

• Classic holiday musicals or plays done really well
• Dinner downtown + show feels like a whole occasion
  Good for: Date night or team event

10) Purdue Christmas Show

Elliott Hall of Music | 5–10 min

Choirs, full orchestra, production value is legit
Est. Cost: $20–$40 depending on seats
Good for: Multi-generation outing (bring the parents, or the kids)

What are your favorite holiday events in the area?