Muncie, Indiana began as a small Indian village but eventually grew into a large manufacturing center that included the Ball Corporation, an American company well known for producing glass canning jars. Downtown organizations and businesses have focused on rebuilding a vibrant and sustainable downtown to attract residents and tourists. The city prides itself on being home to Ball State University, an important part of the area's history, as well as its future. Muncie, in Delaware County, is about 60 miles northeast of Indianapolis in east central Indiana.
Lakes
- Boating, fishing and camping are the main attractions at two lakes within 10 miles of Muncie. Summit Lake anglers usually catch bass, crappie, yellow perch and channel catfish. Rental canoes, paddle boats and rowboats are available at the 2,680-acre lake, located in Summit Lake State Park. The park is also a popular bird watching and wildlife observation area. At Prairie Creek Reservoir and Campground you'll find 1,275 acres of water in addition to 750 acres of land. Bring your pontoon or rowboat for fishing or sightseeing; there is no power boating allowed. The site also features a campground and concession stand, as well as a playground and basketball and volleyball courts.
Artistic Pursuits
- The campus of Ball State University is home to many of the cultural offerings in the city. Take time to appreciate the David Owsley Museum of Art where the collection includes more than 11,000 works of art. If local artwork piques your interest, visit the Atrium Gallery on campus. The Emens Auditorium provides a performing arts venue with 3,581 seats; in addition there is the 410-seat University Theatre where both local and national works are produced. In downtown, there is a monthly art walk at local galleries where you can meet the artists, listen to live music and enjoy free refreshments.
Parks and Recreation
- There are 28 parks operated by the city where you'll discover plenty of room to play, including mini, neighborhood and memorial parks, and a dog park. The largest is McCulloch Park with a soap box derby track, playgrounds, ball fields and basketball courts, as well as picnic facilities including benches, shelters, tables and barbecue grills. While Muncie SportsPlex is not affiliated with the city, it's extremely popular with softball, baseball and soccer players because it has five ball diamonds and 11 soccer or football fields, as well as a regulation size cross-country course. Two concession stands serve hungry players and their fans.
Listen to the Music
- Pack a picnic and bring your lawn chair to the free, seasonal concerts in downtown where performances by national recording artists take place at Canan Commons, Muncie’s outdoor venue. You'll be treated to the sounds of folk, blues, jazz, bluegrass and heavy funk throughout the season. The city is also home to a community band, originally formed in the 1870s. The present band, called America's Hometown Band, formed in 1985 and gives public performances of concert and jazz band music. The Muncie Symphony Orchestra presents classical and chamber performances throughout the year, as well as educational and free concerts for the community, including the popular Picnic and Pops and Festival on the Green.
