21 Best & Fun Things To Do In Evansville (Indiana) | Travel Around (2024)

Evansville, Indiana is a county seat of Vanderburgh in the United States.

It is an awesome tourist destination that is known for its breathtaking and inspiring museums. Evansville is obviously a dream come true for outdoor enthusiasts and all adventure lovers.

Home to beautiful parks, delightful performing art studios, and great restaurants and cliffs, this city of Indiana is sure to make every adventurous vacation a memorable one.

From astounding views to incredible hiking trails to unique escape room houses, you will never be short of fun things to do in Evansville.

Notwithstanding, despite being a haven for adventure-seeker, there are equally several things to do in Evansville for visitors who’d prefer a more refined vacation experience.

So if you’d be planning a trip to Evansville, take a look at some of the best sites you can check out.

Things To Do In Evansville

1. Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden

Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden presents one of the best activities to enjoy your summer vacation in Evansville.

Of course, the clearest way into the Universe is by checking what nature has to offer!

At Mesker Park Zoo & Botanic Garden, you’d have the opportunity to see over 700 animals of about 200 species.

Beyond the numerous animals available here, this attraction also offers several fun programs for kids.

Obviously, no matter the age of such a visitor, this awesome park has a bit of something interesting for everyone.

Please note, that this site in the state of Indiana opens 365 days a year between 9 am through 4 pm and the admission fee is $11 per head.

During your voyage to this Indiana city, be sure to add this fun park to your itinerary.

Address: 1545 Mesker Park Dr, Evansville, IN 47720, United States

2. Angel Mounds State Historic Site

Having the knowledge of history is a great tool to understand what the future holds.

How were the earlier inhabitants lived? What was their predominant lifestyle? What led to their downfall? Of course, these people are no more in existence! So, you can only get answers to these forms of questions only when you have the knowledge of history!

Angel Mounds State Historic Site is an American Historical landmark that’s rich with insightful documentation about American history and more particularly, about the history of the state of Indiana.

This site has exhibits that’d give everyone on sight an opportunity to immerse himself or herself in the over 1,000-year-old Native American culture.

Beyond that, Angel Mounds situated on a 600-acre archaeological site doesn’t only provide a clear overview of the past, but it’s also a paradise for hikers and joggers.

There’s certainly a whole lot of things to be learned and enjoyed in this amazing tourist attraction.

In fact, you’d probably stay beyond your scheduled time, because it’s quite addictive and all activities here are so great.

Address: 8215 Pollack Ave, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

3. Wesselman Woods Nature Center

Another interesting place worthy of inclusion on our list of best and most fun places in Evansville is Wesselman Woods Nature Center!

This nature preserve is a dream come true for every adventurous that are conscious about nature.

It’s a point of interest that housed lots of seabirds and the woodland trails are one of the most enjoyable hiking trails in the state of Indiana.

Part of the delightful things that’d equally make your trip worthwhile to this destination is the presence of the oldest trees in the United States that’s right here.

Do you ever think of seeing a tree that has been in existence for nearly a century?

At Wesselman Woods Nature Center, you wouldn’t only see this aged long tree, but you’d equally have the privilege of seeing one of the tallest trees in the state of Indiana.

Not only that, you’d have the privilege of seeing a series of animals, including raccoons, squirrels, coyotes, and gray foxes.

Besides, Wesselman Woods Nature Center equally serves as a refuge for varieties of owls and woodpeckers.

There’s definitely no justification for excluding this 200-acre tract fun place from the list of places you should check out while in Evansville!

Address: 551 N Boeke Rd, Evansville, IN 47711, United States

4. Tropicana Evansville Casino

Are you a lover of casinos?

For every casino lover planning a trip to Evansville, the best way you can make yourself feel at home in Indiana is by checking out Bally’s Evansville Casino!

Essentially,Evansville Casino is an entertaining arena featuring an expansive gaming floor, resort-inspired amenities, and a side pool.

With the ‘no manipulation strategy’ here, you’d not only have loads of fun, but you might possibly end up winning big.

Remarkably maintaining 79,000 square feet of enclosed gaming space for over two decades, this enjoyable place is a must-visit forever lovers of casinos!

In addition to the awesome casino, there’s also a considerable dining room with free open access to Wi-Fi.

That suggests that you’d not only have a pleasurable moment, but you’d also be able to fill your stomach with amazing American dishes.

Obviously, Tropicana Evansville Casino is the best to the beat when it comes to Casino gaming!

The goal of embarking on any voyage is certainly to create memories and not dreams. With Tropicana Casino, you’re sure to leave this city of Indiana with incredible memories you’d stand to remember in years to come.

It’d be worthwhile including this fun site on your bucket list!

Address: 421 NW Riverside Dr, Evansville, IN 47708, United States

5. Evansville Museum Of Arts, History & Science

Evansville Museum of Arts History & Science is another point of interest and an interesting tourist destination in Evansville.

The museum’s mantra is to ‘enrich lives through its series of aged-long archeological artifacts and other exhibits.

Established in the year 1904, this museum is a must-stop destination for all lovers of history and cultural enthusiasts.

Besides, this pleasurable area situated along the beautiful riverfront in the south of Evansville also offers lots of exhibitions, educational events, family programs, and more.

Little wonder this impressive fun place was regarded as one of Southwestern Indiana’s oldest and most respected cultural institutions.

If you’d be in Evansville anytime, you need to check out this lovely place that house over 30000 artifacts which are quite insightful.

Importantly, take note that visitors can only visit here on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday.

Address: 411 SE Riverside Dr, Evansville, IN 47713, United States

6. The Eastland Mall

Opening 11 am to 7 pm daily, The Eastland Mall is the only super-regional mall in Evansville.

You’d have an incomplete vacation to this downtown city without checking out this shopping mall.

Not just a renowned shopping destination, this site is a single-level shopping complex with a food court & an old-fashioned carousel ride.

The food court is delightful with some great restaurants like Chick-fil-A, TGIF, Auntie Anne, some good Chinese places, and many more.

You can find great cakes, bread, ice cream, chocolate, and food in one place. Everything here is just so beautiful!

In fact, browsing through the store is one of the easiest things you could ever think of as everything is well-labeled.

Regardless of being one of the oldest shopping destinations in Evansville, food and every other offering here are so affordable beyond whatever you’d ever imagine!

Shopping is undoubtedly an amazing way of spending quality time, especially if you’re sure of leaving with beautiful memories.

When next you’d be at Evansville, plan to spend two hours or more navigating through the Eastland Mall and it’s sure you’d have beautiful memories afterward!

Address: 800 N Green River Rd, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

7. Children’s Museum Of Evansville

Two of the greatest gifts a child will appreciate are taking them to where they like or buying them what they will admire.

If you’d be out for your next summer holiday with your kids, the best form of gift you can give them is to take them to where they’d have plenty of fun moments.

Should Evansville be your next vacation destination, consider bringing them to the Children’s Museum of Evansville!

Just as the name suggests, this is a museum established for kids and it’s sure your kids will appreciate being here.

The museum presents exhibits and several programs that educate and entertain the children.

In addition, every child on sight will have access to all forms of exhibits, including a water exhibit that spans multiple floors and deconstructs objects.

If perhaps you have a child, that’s such a playful type, there’s also a kid playarea at the Children’s Museum of Evansville!

Although situated on less than 1 acre of land, this lovely region has a bit of something unique and fun to offer children.

Part of the galleries that are also available for kids’ perusal and enjoyment here include a Live Well, which provides the children with hands-on information about sun protection, the human body, and healthy eating.

Speak Loud exhibit is another gallery on this site that’s aimed at encouraging the children to dramatize a familiar play and create an artistic masterpiece.

With much certainty, your kids would love to be in this Evansville attraction because it’s obviously a place with so many possibilities!

Address: 22 SE 5th St, Evansville, IN 47708, United States

8. Burdette Park

Burdette Park is another recreational site that offers awesome fun activities.

Being the only municipal park in Indiana that’s not operated by the City of Evansville. Burdette Park provides unparalleled activities that are not so available elsewhere.

This recreational and educational environment consists of approximately 170 acres of wooded hills offering fishing endeavors, picnicking, and camping to tourists of all ages.

Despite being in existence since the year 1936, Burdette Park hasn’t stopped creating renewed visitor experiences for everyone on sight.

Expectedly, you might wish to swim all day without having to empty your wallet. The swimming opportunity at Burdette Park is what would surpass every visitor’s expectation because it’s not only fun but the entrance fee is inexpensive!

Certainly, no beautiful paths can be discovered without embarking on a voyage, but then, embarking on a voyage without a direction is an endeavor in futility!

With Burdette Park, your desire to discover a beautiful path will come to reality!

Address: 5301 Nurrenbern Rd, Evansville, IN 47712, United States

9. Reitz Home Museum

The Reitz Home Museum is a typical illustration of Indiana’s finest French Second Empire architecture.

Opened in 1871, this breathtaking site offers a fascinating local history to travelers and inhabitants alike.

Checking through this house is like looking through another world because the structure itself is enough to give you some thoughtful moments.

Everything is magnificent, and you’d particularly love the intricately laid wood flooring, the monuments, and the series of historical programs that are available here.

In fact, the tour guides are very knowledgeable and their eagerness to answer all forms of questions put to them is quite impressive.

Despite its huge pretty treats, the admission fee is absolutely free! And even at that, you can come with your pets.

If it’s about creating a beautiful vacation experience while in Evansville, Reitz Home Museum has a lot to contribute to your sweet narrations about your voyage to this downtown.

Address: 112 Chestnut St, Evansville, IN 47713, United States

10. Victory Theater

The Victory Theatre is a 1,950-seat entertaining location in Evansville.

Remarkably, the home to the Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra and an amazing spot that host local shows, comedy, and dance competition.

Besides, this excellent example of the 1920s movie palace showcases the most interesting and admirable cultural heritage of the people of the United States.

Even while seated, before the show commences, visitors will have access to snacks and drinks, and the most impressive attribute of this site is that the seats are comfortable!

Besides, the ticket fee is quite affordable!

With less than 30 dollars, you’re in for a lifetime of enjoyment!

There’s certainly no better way to enjoy a vacation than visiting an attraction where you’d have wonderful narrations after visiting.

Be it summer or winter, an evening period spent at Victory Theater is an evening that’d give you lots of interesting moments!

Address: 600 Main St, Evansville, IN 47708, United States

11. The Evansville Wartime Museum

Evansville Wartime Museum is another local history museum in Evansville.

Meanwhile, as distinct from other museums in Evansville, the focus of this museum is to provide enough information on the series of wars that occurred in the United States.

Evansville Wartime Museum is the place to visit for the surprising, interesting, and world-changing story of the United States’ involvement in WWII.

You’d be able to walk through galleries and check through the entire exhibits that will in no small way pass a meaningful message that’d leave you being thoughtful!

Filled with hundreds of fascinating artifacts, this museum will definitely present clear pictures of what’s in most of the literature.

Interestingly, adults’ entrance fee is just $11 while kids pay less, and oftentimes, kids do not even pay any entrance fee.

It’s, however, important to note that there’s no food truck available in this attraction of Evansville.

Nevertheless, there are parking lots plentiful!

Address: 7503 Petersburg Rd, Evansville, IN 47725, United States

Looking to explore something more thrilling while in Indiana? You can check out our list of the best and most fun things to do in Fishers, French Lick, Michigan City, Bloomington, and Fort Wayne!

12. Garvin Park

Do you plan to have a thrilling adventure while on a voyage to Evansville, Indiana?

Every visitor wouldn’t ever wish for a boring adventure!

Therefore, while on a voyage to this eventful city, be sure to add Garvin Park to the list of places you’d be checking out.

This fun place is precisely a historic public park that was opened in 1915.

Situated along Morgan avenue road, this over-a-century attraction is sure to give every visitor a blast.

Little wonder it was acknowledged in 1980 as one of the most fun and historic places in the United States.

Take note further that fun activities that you’d enjoy in this 80 acres attraction also include access to a large lake, tennis and basketball courts, and a swimming pool.

It’s such an attraction where you’d see desirable activities to engage in, irrespective of your interest.

Address: Garvin Park, Evansville, IN 47710, United States

13. The Evansville African American Museum

Evansville African American Museum is a must-visit attraction for any traveler that’s of African origin.

Evansville African American Museum is one of the few sites that’s dedicated to showcasing the rich history & traditions of the African-American community.

The mission of its establishment is to continually develop a resource and cultural center to preserve, collect, and educate the public on the history and traditions of African American people.

Note that it’s only opened on Tuesday–Friday between 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Meanwhile, it’s only accessible to visitors on Saturday between 12 p.m.–4 p.m.

This museum is such an insightful place that celebrates the struggles, successes, and experiences of African Americans through its series of exhibits.

If expanding your horizon is what’s so paramount to you, the Evansville African American Museum is a place worthy of visiting!

Address: 579 S Garvin St, Evansville, IN 47713, United States

14. Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra

As the largest arts institution in the state of Indiana, the Philharmonic Orchestra will undoubtedly make your stay in Evansville so interesting.

The Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra entertains guests through its ever-amazing movie shows.

Beyond being a fun galore destination, this destination is also an appropriate place where you’d enjoy a taste of the most delicious food you could ever think of.

Movie plus amazing bites, indeed, it couldn’t be better than that!

Though established in 1934, nonetheless, the way visitors kept coming to Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra is a clear reflection of its uniqueness.

It totally behooves you to make yourself happy. After all, happy life is a life that’s well spent.

Evansville Philharmonic Orchestra will not only make you happy, but it’d also equally entertain you beyond your expectations.

Address: 20 NW 3rd St #500, Evansville, IN 47708, United States

15. Old Evansville Courthouse

Evansville is filled with lots of historical landmarks! If you’re on a low budget while on a vacation to this city, Old Evansville Courthouse should be at the top of your itinerary.

Established in 1891, this spot is an admission-free attraction that offers amazing activities.

Beyond being a site where you’d see tons of birds and have access to hiking, the Old Courthouse is also one of the finest examples of Neo-Baroque architecture in the United States.

Different from that, this awesome arena is also a perfect place to celebrate your kid’s birthday or similar events.

Relatively small, regardless of its size, you’d have a whole lot of sweet reflections after your subsequent trip to this place.

However, be sure you come early, as they close by 4 pm every day.

Address: 201 NW 4th St #102, Evansville, IN 47708, United States

16. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse

Taking good wine with delicious food is one of life’s most civilized pleasures.

So, do you wish to check out an attraction that has amazing food and wine for you while in Evansville?

If you would, BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse wouldn’t just offer you good food and wine, but it’d be offered at considerably low prices.

Serving up a one-of-a-kind Brewhouse experience for over forty years in Evansville, BJ’s Restaurant apparently wouldn’t do less to meet up your expectations.

It’s a rare gem that prides itself in making Indiana more habitable and fun for every tourist and you’d surely love it.

The broad menu of what’s obtainable here includes a California spin on Chicago-style deep-dish pizza complemented with generously portioned salads, appetizers, sandwiches, and many more.

In fact, the pasta, entrees, and desserts you’d get here are top-notch, and you’d surely love them.

It’s not so surprising how this bar has won over 160 awards in the past years.

Apparently, the fact speaks for itself and only a trip down to this great bar and restaurant center will suffice!

Address: 1000 N Green River Rd, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

17. The Rumjahn Gallery And Framery

Since Evansville has loads of attractions for history enthusiasts, so also lovers of Arts and admirers of creative structures are not left out.

Being a favorite tourist destination since several decades ago, The Rumjahn Gallery and Framery have tons of creative structures that are sure to create interesting moments for you.

This Evansville’s largest art gallery features pottery and a series of watercolors that are quite appealing to children.

Accessibility to this place isn’t free, nevertheless, the $15 that’s payable by each visitor will worth it because, far beyond what you’d pay, you’d leave with a total sense of satisfaction.

Interestingly, you could also get home some nice customized creative things to beautify your interiors.

If you could, it’s advisable you have a stop here when next you’re in Evansville.

Address: 5901 Vogel Rd, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

18. Breakout Games – Evansville

Breakout Games – Evansville is an Escape room center in Evansville providing fun adventure to visitors of age 12 and above.

With its unique storylines, you and your associates will have up to 60 minutes to escape your adventure of choice by cracking codes and solving puzzles.

The puzzles appear so challenging but if you endeavor to escape them, it’d be so enjoyable and amazing.

Opening Monday through Friday between 10 am to 4 pm, this escape house wouldn’t only entertain you, but it’d also develop your sense of thinking and build your ability to work with a team.

If you consider yourself having what it takes to escape and solve puzzles, why not consider checking out Breakout Games – Evansville?

No matter what it is, there’s no reason too good to deprive yourself of access to an enjoyable vacation.

Thus, if you could, spare 60 minutes of your time to check out this awesome site during your subsequent travels to Indiana.

Address: 4903 Theater Dr, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

19. The Sky Zone Trampoline Park

Sky Zone Trampoline Park is an amusem*nt center that’s suitable for a family vacation.

This impressive center provides visitors the opportunity to jump, dodge, flip, bounce, and meet friends.

Besides, this location is the most suitable place to celebrate birthday parties and other special occasions.

The staff conducts is another beautiful attribute of Sky Zone Trampoline Park because they’re so knowledgeable and highly accessible.

With $20, if you’re in Evansville, don’t be hesitant to check out this amazing fun place.

It’d only take about three hours or less. Meanwhile, the memory will be that of a lifetime!

Address: 49 N Green River Rd, Evansville, IN 47715, United States

See also the list of things to do in Carmel and South Bend!

20. Howell Wetlands

Whatever time is spent appreciating nature is never wasted time.

From nature, everyone learns so many things which no book of literature or school will teach.

As much as you’d love to dedicate some of your time to appreciating nature while you’re in Indiana, Howell Wetlands is a place to be!

It essentially features 35 acres of cypress slough, marshland, bald, lowland hardwood, and oxbow lake.

With the series of wildlife animals such as muskrats, herons, beavers, wood ducks, geese, and deer, Howell Wetlands isn’t a place to exclude from places you should check out.

Being one of the few five urban wetlands parks in Indiana, the entertaining activities here are enough to give you reasons to plan a revisit to Evansville.

Note that, this rare ecosystem that’s appealing all year round also provides an educational adventure for kids and younger children.

Overall, we recommend that you check out Howell Wetlands anytime you’re in Evansville if your itinerary can still accommodate more fun places!

Address: 1400 S Tekoppel Ave, Evansville, IN 47712, United States

21. Gerst Haus Evansville, Indiana

When you admire doing what you are meant to do, everything will seem lighter, and you’d feel so happy.

If you prioritize your happiness and wish to enjoy lots of fun moments while on a vacation, Gerst Haus Evansville, Indiana is a place to be checkout!

It’s an awesome destination that has been serving Indiana and its neighboring state since 1999.

Providing the best German food in an authentic beer hall atmosphere, Gerst Haus Evansville, Indiana is indeed a top-notch to all lovers of good food.

The menu includes a variety of German and American food, as well as signature dishes that include bratwurst, fresh wiener schnitzel, corned beef, and cabbage.

Furthermore, this spot is noted to be the “Best” Reuben sandwich in Evansville.

It’s also a lovely tourist attraction that features giant frozen fishbowls. Different from that, there are 49 draughts and a large selection of imported beer here.

The operating period at Gerst Haus Evansville, Indiana is 10 am to 8 pm every day.

Address: 2100 W Franklin St, Evansville, IN 47712, United States

Final Remarks

It’s obvious that Evansville has lots of amazing sites to make your holiday vacation worthwhile.

From its numerous museums to its series of wonderful parks, you’d never be wrong to plan a vacation to this downtown city of Indiana.

The most interesting thing about this tourist destination is the fact that most of its numerous sites are quite affordable.

So, how soon will you be on a trip to this city?

Regardless of when it would be, winter or summer, it’s sure you’d have the best vacation experience like ever before here!

Therefore, get set for the most adventurous trip ever!

Remember, you can always make money. Meanwhile, you can’t make memories unless you’re out for it!

While we’re wishing you a fun-filled journey ahead, do ensure to make use of the attractions recommended above to narrow down your itinerary!

Safe trip!