Wolf Park

Wolves here live in a cross between a zoo and the wild in this park. Researchers study these wolves to see how they interact. Wolves are studied here in a relatively natural environment although they are not as free to roam as they are in the wild. The wolves can be seen at howl nights and attempting to hunt buffalo. The workers here assured me that the wolves are not actually skilled enough to successfully hunt the buffalo who have nothing to fear from wolves at this skill level.

At howl nights, the workers get the wolves to gather in front of viewing stands and explain their behavior. The wolves also demonstrate some tricks which the workers have taught them. Of course, you will also get the opportunity to lead the wolves in a howl. At the bison demos, the wolves are given a chance to hunt the bison living on the park until they give up.

Amenities

• There are bathrooms an in the visitor center
  
• There is a bookstore which sells memorabilia
  
• Plenty of parking is available in the lot outside the visitor center
  
• There are viewing stands to watch the wolves during shows and fences to separate you from the wolves
  

Links

• Facebook page
  
• Flickr group
• Myspace page
  
• Official website
• Twitter page
• Wikipedia
  
• Wolf Park kids site
• Wolf Park store
  

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Campuses

• Wabash College
  

Columbian Park Zoo

Columbian Park Zoo is located in Columbian Park in Lafayette. It has free admission so it is a great place to take a family, but unfortunately it is not a very large zoo. Even though there are not as many animals, the zoo makes up for this by allowing more interaction. You can go into a barnyard and pet some animals. You can also play in a mock prairie dog tunnels or walk amongst the butterflies. The staff/helpers there are friendly and helpful.

Amenities

• Admission is free
  
• There are bathrooms and drinking fountains available
  
• Parking is available on the surrounding streets and can be difficult to find depending on the time
  
• There are plenty of staff to aid you
  

Links

• City of Lafayette webpage
• Facebook page
  
• Purdue Epics webpage
  

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Vinton Pool

Vinton is a relatively small pool, but it is great for children and people who do not wish to lap swim or dive. The pool starts off very shallow and gradually gets deeper so that children can play in their optimal depth of water. Parents can either play with their children in the pool or watch from the deck chairs around it. There is a water slide and basketball hoop available for play as well.

Amenities

• There are bathrooms and showers in the changing rooms
  
• Deck chairs and umbrellas are available for sitting or laying around the pool
  
• Parking is available next to the pool

Links

• Lafayette Aquatics page
  

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