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There is always something going on in Indianapolis, and many of the events center around food and drinks. There are only a few months left in 2017, but that doesn't mean the fun is over; there are still many festivals and fun things to do before the year ends. Here are some delicious events still to come in 2017. The 5th Annual Pumpkin, Cider, and Fall Beer Festival On Saturday, Sept. 30th, Indianapolis will host the 5th Annual Pumpkin, Cider, and Fall Beer Festival in Opti-Park on East 66th Street. This fun event grows every year and features all kinds of food, beer, and fun. You can check out the more than 40 different pumpkin brews along with other fall beers, and make sure to get there to see the Elysian Great Pumpkin Road Show. You can also take part in the keg tosses, pumpkin painting, and even some pumpkin smashing along with many other activities. Tickets to the event are $35 in advance or $40 at the door, and designated drivers are just $5 at the door. The festival is for guests 21 years old and over. The Indianapolis Chinese Festival Experience Chinese culture at the 7th annual Indianapolis Chinese Festival. This event will take place in downtown Indianapolis at IUPUI's Wood Plaza. It takes place on Sept. 23rd, which is during the Chinese Moon Festival, one of the largest Chinese festivals. There will be all kinds of delicious Chinese food to eat along with music and dance performances. Visitors can watch or even take part in the famous lion and dragon dances, and explore the art exhibits. The festival runs from noon to 6 p.m. and ends with a beautiful lantern walk. more The Original and Fabulous GermanFest Celebrate everything German at the Original and Fabulous GermanFest on Oct. 14th starting at noon. This event takes place at the Athenaeum on East Michigan Street and has something for everyone. Try German food provided by the Indianapolis Sangerchor, and taste some German beer. There are also activities for the whole family, including live Wiener dog races, a strongman competition, and a 5K run/walk. The kids can head to ZwergenLand for fun activities designed just for them, or you can all browse through the Urban Flea market with over 100 vendors. Tickets range from $3 to $12, and you can buy them online or at the door. The Indy Winter Farmers Market You can still get your fresh fruit and vegetables in the winter at the Indy Winter Farmers Market. This market has over 40 vendors with locally grown and produced fruit, meat, dairy products, and vegetables along with herbs, flowers, and baked goods. It runs every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Circle City Industrial Complex from November through April. Make sure to check out these events and festivals to enjoy delicious food and drink along with fun activities. There is still time in 2017 to get out and enjoy Indianapolis and all it has to offer. Image via Publicdomainpictures.net

Whether you're taking a road trip or seeing a new part of town, driving on unfamiliar roads can be nerve-wracking. When you're in an unfamiliar place, consider the following tips to ensure you reach your destination safely. Slow Down Even if you're a speed demon on the highway, you should slow down on unfamiliar roads. Driving too fast can cause you to miss important road signs and landmarks. You could also come up too quickly on a speed bump and spill your beverage all over the interior cabin. No matter what, it's important that you maintain a safe stopping distance that's appropriate to your speed — the faster you drive, the longer the stopping distance. Consider the road's speed limit and maintain it or drive slightly slower so you won't miss anything. Use a Navigation System or Map Unless you've memorized the route ahead of time, having a GPS or handheld map on hand is essential in unfamiliar territory. Modern navigation systems like those found in many Chevrolet models are a great option because they provide turn-by-turn navigation. This feature helps you find out where to make your next turn without taking your eyes off the road. Having a backup printed map is also a smart idea if you're traveling in areas a GPS cannot locate, such as remote terrain. Activate OnStar If your vehicle is equipped with OnStar, now is the time to active it. OnStar provides an array of navigation and emergency services that can help you feel more confident while driving in unknown locations. The service calls for help when you need it, protects against vehicle theft, provides turn-by-turn navigation, and allows you to stay connected on the go with 4G LTE and a Wi-Fi hotspot. Even if you don't normally need OnStar, it's an essential tool for those long road trips where the chances of getting lost are greater than ever. more Listen to a Local Radio Station While you may have trouble switching over from your favorite satellite radio station, tuning into a local radio station can keep you updated on traffic conditions. Before your trip, research major radio stations along the route and note them in your phone or a small notepad. As you move from one city to another, you can switch over to the station with the most relevant traffic updates. Listening to the radio can also reduce stress while driving, so don't be afraid to turn up the volume and sing along! Bring a Friend Although this option isn't always available, the best driving tool to use in unknown territory is a friend who knows the route and can point the way. If neither of you have been on this road before and you don't have a GPS system, have your friend act as the navigator and a second set of eyes. Driving in unfamiliar territory can be intimidating, but it's also likely to create unforgettable memories of adventure. Consider your route ahead of time, take the proper precautions, and drive safely. Image via Wikipedia Commons used under Public Domain

The architecture in Columbus sets the city apart, with both historic and artistic modern buildings and structures. There are a number of enigmatic and practical designs spread all through the city, and anyone with a passion for how buildings are made will find these six places worth a visit. First Christian Church Constructed in 1942, this house of worship is one of the first churches in the United States built with a contemporary style. It features a perfectly rectangular clock tower over a building lined with columns of windows along the sides. The property is also home to Large Arch, a 20-foot-tall abstract sandcast bronze sculpture by Henry Moore. Across the street you'll find the Cleo Rogers Memorial Library, a charming brick building with many extended walls that first appear to be columns. Cummins Health Center Designed in 1973, this business was made to offer alternatives to common, industrial health care. The building was made with few interior walls, and much of the outer walls are designed in a special black glass that becomes transparent at night. This structure received an Honor award from the American Institute of Architects in 1976. Bartholomew County Jail Though few would expect it, this penitentiary for Indiana convicts with minimum sentences is downright beautiful. Lovely flower beds surround the jail, which has a criss-cross appearance with lots of white and tan topped by a transparent dome. While you'll never want to see the inside if you can help it, this structure sets an important precedent that care can go into the outward appearance of even the least desirable places to stay. more Inn at Irwin Gardens This Italianate home on stately property was built by Joseph I. Irwin, a Columbus businessman, in 1864. Though still one of the best examples of enduring historic architecture in the city, the Inn at Irwin Gardens also has an intriguing history of changes, since the building was enlarged and redesigned over the following decades. The site also houses a maze garden based on the Casa degli Innamorati. If you're after the most unforgettable hotel for a romantic getaway, look no further. North Christian Church Completed in 1964 by Eero Saarinen, this church has six sides and a sloped roof that joins to a 192-foot spire with a cross coated in gold leaf. The landscape and general site is also quite interesting, including a parking lot with rooms dedicated to sheltering vehicles. The Prall House In 1891, Charles F. Sparell designed this Queen-Ann-style home for dentist Will J. Prall, and it took until 1895 before the work was complete. The high brick chimney sticks out amid the cream-colored exterior and tower bedroom, and the ridges of the home's many roofs are lined with wrought-iron fencing, a fascinating touch that pulls the look together. These places should be a high priority for any Columbus visitor or resident in the architecture industry, or anyone with a general interest in the many ways buildings and properties can be designed, furnished, and landscaped. From churches to Columbus' towering post office, there's a lot to see if you go off your ordinary routine. Image "First Christian Church" via Flickr by hartjeff12 used under CC BY 2.0

The verdant landscape of Columbus can be enjoyed in many ways, particularly at one of the city's highly-rated golf courses. Whether you're interested in a long-term membership in a respected institution or just want a nice place to play the occasional game with friends, Columbus has just what you've been looking for. Take a look at each and you'll likely notice one that suits you best. Otter Creek Golf Course This 27-hole PGA championship course is designed to both challenge players and fully display the unimpeded beauty of southern Indiana, and has been one of the highest-rated public courses in the United States since opening in 1964. Otter Creek consists of one 18-hole course suited to experts, with a mix of wide, gently sloping hillsides. The course isn't too gimmicky with traps and obstacles, ensuring the players test their drive and swing to the fullest. There is also a nine-hole section that complements the 18-hole course and is excellent for a shorter game. Harrison Lake Country Club Popular for its fine dining restaurant, tennis courts, pool, card rooms, and banquet hall, Harrison Lake Country Club's main claim to fame is its classic 18-hole course. You'll swing over level terrain and mild inclines with terrific views of the lakeside and forested hills. Before or after the game make sure to stop by the pro shop, which provides various helpful services to members. The country club also holds private golf lessons by Nodjya Cook, a PGA training professional, and other experts, as well as junior golf camps. Greenbelt Golf Course For players interested in something more casual, Greenbelt is a 9-hole course set in less landscaped and more park-like land with very little incline. Repeat visitors praise Greenbelt for the pace of the game, as no hole is too long or too difficult to find after completing the prior hole. While the course is not difficult, it's a great place for first-timers to get the feel of swinging, putting, and more, or a good place for veterans to play casually with inexperienced friends. Rocky Ford Par 3 Golf Course For those unfamiliar, a par three course is generally less difficult than the typical championship 18-hole course, which has an average par of four when factoring each hole together. Though you'll see the occasional sandtrap and water hazard, you won't lose a ball at Rocky Ford Par 3 if you know what you're doing. However, with tees up to 2,100 yards you can expect a more intermediate challenge compared to Greenbelt. Rocky Ford Par 3 also has an 18-hole foot golf course, an extremely fun game that's just like gold, except with soccer balls, 21-inch cups, and no clubs. If you live in Columbus or are visiting the city soon and would like to play a great game of golf, any of these four places will do the job. Visit each one and you'll see photo-worthy nature and sharpen your skills. Image via Flickr by Krzysztof Urbanowicz used under CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Whether it's a trip to Mars or traveling through time to shake JFK's hand, very few life events can equal the magic of attending the annual Indiana State Fair! There's few things that can compete with the rush of a rollercoaster, Mars food has nothing on corn dogs, and JFK won't score you a gigantic plush panda bear from the Midway. Don't miss this year's Fair! Unforgettable Food State fairs are notorious for indulgent eats, and given Indiana's official theme for 2017 — The Wonderful World of Food — the chow will be off the proverbial hook. The classics will all be present of course, such as smoked and fried turkey legs, freshly dipped corn dogs, and tons of barbecue. For the more extreme eater, grab a bacon cheeseburger on a glazed doughnut bun (not kidding). The less brave should at least sample the grilled mac n' cheese sandwich, slightly less artery-clogging but no less tasty. The deep fryer is well-represented for 2017. The deep-fried offerings include corn on the cob with garlic lime butter and queso fresco, meatballs on a stick, and cheese fresh off the block. Healthy eaters and vegetarians won't risk starving to death at this year's Fair. Grab a black bean and spinach burrito with fresh pico de gallo, for example. The gigantic wok at Island Noodles is a spectacle in itself, but their buckwheat noodles with fresh veggies make it worth the trip. And even vegetarians can enjoy a S'Mores Shake with a genuine s'more garnish. Edible Education Going along with this year's theme, the featured exhibit will be "Our Global Kitchen: Food, Nature, Culture." Appropriately located in the Harvest Pavilion, it explores the various methods humans have used to shape the world to create the food we enjoy today. The exhibit features interactive digital displays, artifacts, models, and dioramas. This rich and immersive exhibit is sponsored by the American Museum of Natural History in New York. Free Concerts At the Chevrolet Silverado Stage, check out powerhouse performances by George Thorogood and the Destroyers, High Valley, Montgomery Gentry, Kiefer Sutherland, and Dashboard Confessional. Relive the glory of Motown with Patti LaBelle. Take a trip back in time with a groovy set featuring The Turtles, The Association, The Box Tops, and artists from Three Dog Night and The Archies. Radical Rides About fifty rides are to be found at the Midway. Ride the classics, including the Tilt-a-Whirl, Crazy Mouse Coaster, and giant slide. Hardcore thrill seekers should check out the Skater, Fireball, and FreakOut rides. Tots can enjoy their own dozen rides at Kiddieland. The MetroPCS Family Fun Park has more than petting zoos — you can enjoy the Go-Karts or a pony ride as well. New to the Fair this year is the Subaru Skyride. Similar to a ski lift, this 1,400-foot ride features 90 chairs and soars about 35 feet over Main Street. It's well worth the $5 ticket price, especially after dark. Opening day for the 2017 Indiana State Fair is on Friday, August 4. The fair runs until August 20, giving you plenty of opportunities to hit the party. Nearly a million visitors will share in the experience — make sure you're one of them! Image "Indiana State Fair Midway" via Flickr by xrayspx used under CC BY-SA 2.0 / cropped from original

At Chevrolet of Columbus, we truly care about each and every one of our customers. It’s been an incredible year of success in our brand new dealership facility, and to celebrate we are giving back to the community and our wonderful customers in big ways. This May is Customer Appreciation Month at Chevrolet of Columbus! We’re showing our thanks and our love to our customers in many ways this month. For starters, every single person who buys a vehicle this month gets the chance to spin our amazing prize wheel! Everyone who spins our prize wheel is a winner, from cash to car washes to gift card prizes, there’s a prize to please anyone! We’ll also be having a drawing for a chance to win a brand new 32” TV! Our drawing will be weekly, so there will be multiple winners throughout the month! Chevrolet of Columbus is also celebrating our customers by matching down payments up to $2,500, as well as offering great deals and savings on select Chevy models. Our appreciation celebrations don't stop there, either. Special dealership events will also be going on during the month, so be sure to stop by at Chevrolet of Columbus to experience customer appreciation month! Visit us today to learn more about our special events and prizes or visit www.chevyofcolumbus.com.

If you're like many frequent travelers, then your vacation just isn't complete until you've sampled the local cuisine. Although you might not realize it, one of the premier cities to visit if you want a great meal is Indianapolis. This city provides a wide range of restaurant options, whether you're looking for a world-class meal or a quick bite to eat. Before you take your next trip to Indianapolis, it's important that you learn about some of the city's best restaurants where you can have a one of a kind meal. St. Elmo Steak House When you're planning a night out on the town in Indianapolis, you want to make a part of that night a high-quality meal that you won't soon forget. If this is what you're looking for, the best restaurant in Indianapolis is the St. Elmo Steak House. Located in downtown Indianapolis, St. Elmo is the perfect location for a tasty drink and a delicious meal. Before dinner, you can enjoy a signature cocktail at the 1933 Lounge. When it comes time to eat, you'll be able to choose from a variety of mouth-watering options, including their famous St. Elmo Shrimp Cocktail, a selection of fine steaks, and excellent seafood options. Bru Burger Bar For many Indianapolis citizens, as well as visitors to this fine city, there is no better meal than an old-fashioned hamburger. Anyone in Indianapolis looking for a great burger and a good time needs to consider having a meal at the Bru Burger Bar. At Bru Burger Bar, located on Massachusetts Avenue, you'll be able to choose from a huge selection of high-quality burgers. If you want a fresh take on an old favorite, you should choose one of the signature Chef Burgers, which include options like an Ahi Tuna Burger, a Melt Your Face Burger, and The End Burger. Bru Burger Bar also offers sixteen rotating beers on tap, signature cocktails, and a wide variety of bourbon, scotch, and whiskey. more Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza Nearly everyone likes a slice of pizza every now and again. However, if you're a frequent pizza eater, then this popular dish may have gotten a little stale. Fortunately, if you're visiting Indianapolis, you can get a new twist on this dish by paying a visit to Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza. In addition to offering a wide variety of sandwiches, Jockamo provides five categories of pizza so that you can find your perfect meal. These categories include Meat, Cheese and Potatoes, Chicken, Seafood, Vegetarian, and Hangover. Whether you have a pizza delivered or visit one of their many locations throughout Indianapolis, Jockamo is a restaurant you need to experience for yourself. Café Patachou If you're looking for a fresh, farm to table meal in Indianapolis, the only restaurant that you should visit is Café Patachou. Described by its owners as a "Student Union for Adults," Café Patachou is the perfect place to get a flavorful, healthy meal made from local ingredients. Make sure to visit Café Patachou during breakfast, where you can choose items like custom-made omelettes, a vegan Cuban breakfast, and croissant French toast. The next time you visit Indianapolis, make sure to visit any of these restaurants for a delicious meal. Image via Flickr by gnutar used under CC BY 2.0 /cropped from original

The state of Indiana features over 600 festivals and events across 92 counties. From award-winning cook-offs to re-enactments of iconic childhood programs your children can enjoy, Indiana has something for each day of the week. Here are 6 must-see Indiana summer events. Indy 500 Dates: May 15–28 Location: 4790 West 16th St., Indianapolis, IN 46222 What makes it fun: Known as the " Greatest Month in Racing," The Indy 500 is a historic event that features a family friendly environment with world-class racing talent. Experience the Indy Two-Seater as a passenger with an elite driver pacing the track at an exhilarating speed or get a ground tour of the track and the Hall of Fame Museum. General admission: $35 Jasper Strassenfest Dates: August 3–6 Location: 302 W. 6th St., Jasper, IN 47546 What makes it fun: Take the family out to experience German culture up close and personal at Jasper Indiana's 39th annual Strassenfest. Festival staples like corn hole will make an appearance, but the Strassenfest Parade steals the show with a full-on display showcasing over 200 years of German immigration and culture. General admission: Free! Unless you decide to take part in an event, then you'll have to pay a fee that varies depending on the event. Asian Fest Date: June 11, 2017 Time: 12–5pm Location: Indiana State Museum, Indianapolis What makes it fun: Asian food, games, and activities right in your community. This year will be the 10th annual event with a focus on Japanese culture. General admission: Free! Art House in the Red Room Film Series Dates: May 23–June 27, July 25, August 22 Time: 6–9 p.m. Location: Bartholomew County Public Library, 536 Fifth St., Columbus, IN 47201 What makes it fun: Art House in the Red Room is a monthly community film series of artsy, rare, foreign, and important films that will satisfy any movie lover's thirst for new and interesting stories on the big screen. This event is hosted by Kyle Willey every Tuesday. General Admission: Free! Carmel Fest Dates: July 3–4 Time: 3–10:30 p.m. Location: Civic Square, Carmel, Indiana What makes it fun: This community-sponsored event celebrates Independence Day in true American fashion with great food, a petting zoo, and live music synchronized with a fireworks display. The Freedom run will quench your competitive spirit while the "Hats off to America" 2017 Parade will fill you with patriotic vigor. General admission: Free! BBQ Rib Fest Dates: June 15–18 Time: 11:30 a.m.–9:30 p.m. Location: Headwater Park, Fort Wayne, Indiana What makes it fun: Snack on unbelievably delicious award-winning barbecue up and down the strip. Rock & roll and blues bands from all over the country offer an upbeat, fun atmosphere for the annual 40,000 "rib feasters" that descend on the festival. This is definitely Fort Wayne's biggest summer event. General admission: Free every day until 5:30 p.m. and $3 all day Sunday. After 5:30 p.m. it's $6 for adults (14 and over), $5 for seniors, and $4 for students, military, police, and firefighters with ID. Image via Flickr by momentcaptred1 used under CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Located just about equidistant from Louisville and Indianapolis, many travelers speed right by Columbus, Indiana, on I-35 as they head from one city to the next. However, missing out on this town is leaving out an integral part of Indiana and the nation's history. If you're a history buff, it's a destination you can't afford to miss. Listed as the 11th most historic city in the country by National Geographic, Columbus really needs no introduction. Here are just a few of the highlights you'll get to see on your visit to this historic town. Bartholomew County Courthouse Designed by famed architect Isaac Hodgson, the Bartholomew County Courthouse is one of the most iconic and well-preserved examples of Second Empire architecture in the country. Upon its completion in 1874, it was instantly hailed as one of the finest buildings in the West. A 154-foot clock tower is the masterpiece of the structure, and it's still in operation today. The courthouse still stands as the seat of government for Bartholomew County, but you're free to explore during normal business hours. It's just one of many buildings in Columbus that are on the National Register of Historic Places. more Miller House and Garden Completed in 1957, the Miller House and Garden is one of the more modern buildings in the city, yet it's also one of the most intriguing. Designed by Finnish neofuturistic architect Eero Saarinen, the home was the residence of J. Irwin Miller, who founded the Cummins Corporation, which still produces engines for auto manufacturers around the world. Obsessed with the allure of modern architecture, Miller sought Saarinen to build his home, and along with landscape architect Dan Kiley, who would go on to work on the ground of the St. Louis Arch, they developed one of the coolest looking buildings ever. Today, the building and grounds are owned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art, and tours are available to visitors. When you head inside the home, most of the furnishings and furniture are part of the original layout, adding to the experience, and letting you see what it was like in the life of one of Indiana's richest businessman. Columbus Architecture Bus Tour If you don't want the hassle of planning your own trip, or you don't want to miss any of the most popular sites, book a tour with the Columbus Architecture Bus Company. This tour allows you to sit in comfort as you're driven across the city to see some of the most important sites in the city. Your tour guide will also explain how a town of just 45,000 people became a center of world-class architecture, and how the city functions today. Tours are $25 for each adult and $15 for students. The tour lasts 2 hours, and make sure to book early, as many of these tours sell out, especially during peak season. Although Columbus is often overlooked, it's contributions to art and architecture are immeasurable. Make sure to stop by the next time you're in the mood for some history and buildings that are truly out of this world.   Image via Flickr by amanderson2

Columbus, Indiana, is widely known as one the architectural marvels of the country. However, that's not all it has to boast. Throughout its storied past, there have been numerous residents that are famous for one reason or another. If you've ever wondered what individuals have called Columbus home, here's a list of the most notable residents of the Athens of the Prairies. 1. Jamie Hyneman There haven't been many television shows that were both educational and exciting, but "Myth Busters" proved to break the mold. During its 282 episode run from 2003 to 2016, the show proved that exploring urban myths and other ideas was indeed an entertaining idea. However, few know that the Jamie Hyneman, the beret-wearing, ill-tempered host called Columbus home. At 14, Hyneman left the town and hitchhiked across the country, growing up quickly, yet he never lost his thirst for knowledge, leading to the ideas that would eventually form "Myth Busters." 2. Chuck Taylor If you played basketball prior to the 1980s, or you were in the modern punk rock scene of the 1990s or early 2000s, chances are you've laced up a pair of Converse All-Stars. What you may not know is that Chuck Taylor, the creator of the famous shoe, made his own pair of kicks to play basketball at Columbus High School in 1917. Little did he know that he would become one of America's biggest shoe moguls. Today, his simple style isn't used for basketball, but it's a fashion statement that spans from high schoolers to celebrities. more 3. J. Irwin Miller One of the largest employers in Columbus, the Cummins Corporation is famous for creating engines for vehicles around the world. At the head of this international organization was J. Irwin Miller, who was one of the first CEOs of the company, running it for decades. After his retirement, Miller lived in his neofuturistic home that's now a tourist attraction owned by the Indianapolis Museum of Art. To this day, his legacy remains, and many of the employed people in the city owe their good fortunes to him. 4. Mike Pence As current Vice President, Mike Pence has etched his name into the fabric of U.S. politics. The former Indiana governor was born in Columbus in 1959 and graduated from Columbus High School in 1977. Though he no longer calls Columbus home, he does frequent the town where he lived during his youth. 5. Irving Howbert You may not know the name Irving Howbert, but he was one of the most influential figures in the Old West. Born in Columbus in 1846, Howbert moved with his father to the Colorado Territory in 1860. After serving in the U.S. Army, he was one of the founders of the city of Colorado Springs, which is now one of the largest cities in the state and home to the U.S. Air Force Academy. It's not every day that you find a city that's given birth to some of the most famous people in American history. Maybe Columbus, Indiana, is in a class all its own. Image "Jamie Hyneman" via Flickr by Genevieve used under CC BY 2.0 / cropped from original

Can't find a place to hang out with the family that everybody can agree on? This list has some of the most fun and affordable destinations for family night our or a free day. Give them a look when you've nearly given up, because there might be something here that you didn't try or never heard of until now. Zaharakos If you're done visiting a park, museum, or other interesting place and want a sweet treat to finish the day, Zaharakos is a dream for both kids and adults. This restored ice-cream parlor and old-fashioned soda fountain unites the generations with good food, charming atmosphere, and a self-playing multi-instrument pipe organ. The restaurant even has its own museum, dedicated to the soda fountain and mechanical music from the old days. Zaharakos is open every day of the week from 11 a.m. - 8 p.m. more The Commons Located along State Road 46 is a huge business center called the Commons, with an indoor playground and all sorts of events scheduled throughout the year. One of the best features of the indoor playground is a 35-foot-high climbing wall. If your kids are different ages, no worries, because the Commons playground is split into three separate zones with fun stuff geared toward toddlers, kids, and big kids. Mill Race Park If a picnic or nature walk is more your speed, consider spending a nice day at Mill Race Park. There are several walking trails suitable for all ages, an observation tower, a covered bridge, and more among the park's verdant landscape. There's also a beautiful lake and two rivers, with four separate fishing areas. Take note that Mill Race Park opens at 7 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m. every day, so it's great for staying a little late. Kidscommons If you're visiting the Commons or will be near it, consider visiting the Kidscommons Children's Museum, a three-story fun and educational building with high rock climbing walls, giant bubble wands, and a giant toilet and pipe system that kids can explore, "flushing" themselves through the complex pipes. Kidcommons is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. and on Sunday from 1 - 5 p.m., with certain Mondays open on school breaks. General admission is $7 without an annual membership, a ten-visit pass with no expiration date is $50, and using the climbing wall costs $3. Blue's Canoe Livery Take the gang for smooth, easy canoe trips as you paddle in sync through beautiful rivers. Set very close to Columbus, this canoe tour company has three options: the beginner's Seven Mile trip, the Nine Mile trip, and the Two-Day Overnight trip where you sleep overnight in a campground. Blue's Canoe Livery recommends arriving a half-hour before the departure time. You can see the different prices, shuttle times, and trip times on their website. It's not easy to get a large group of people to agree on where to go, but it's never hopeless. We hope these five destinations have something to convince everyone in your family to go out and have some fun. Indoors or outdoors, Columbus has plenty of cool stuff spread around the city. Image via Wikipedia Commons used under Public Domain

Columbus residents: ready for an exciting 2017? From huge conventions to casual tours and rare concert performances, this is looking to be a very fun year. All sorts of new and returning events await you, so check out the great examples below and mark down the ones you'd like to attend. You don't want to let these pass you by since several are rare and many are free to attend. Art House in the Red Room Held at the Bartholomew County Public Library on the last Tuesday of every month, Art House in the Red Room is a film-watching and discussion event. From 6-9 p.m. the room plays a foreign, rare, artistic, or socially important film. This is a smaller, quieter event fit for a more insightful evening. more No Tie Affair This casual and fun tasting tour has stops at several of the best restaurants in town. The evening is full of games like a 50/50 raffle, roulette, and a silent auction. Relax and don't dress fancy, because it's going to be a wild night. The initial meetup is at the Mill Race Center on April 16th, and the trip takes place from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Admission is $50 in advance. Columbus Farmer's Market Want some fresh ingredients for a special dinner? This gathering of farmers, artists, and other venders on Brown St. takes place on each Saturday from May 6 to September 16, from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. You can visit the Columbus Farmer's Market for locally grown and produced plants, produce, and foods, along with handcrafted items and artwork. It's also a place to see non-profit groups and potentially support a cause that interests you. Check the site soon, since there will be more information on the events taking place on each Saturday, such as live music and other performances. Salute! Provided by the Columbus Indiana Philharmonic, Salute! is a patriotic concert, free to the public and held in Bartholomew County Veterans Memorial. Salute! plays on Friday, May 26, starting at 7 p.m. The event will be on the grass, so some kind of portable chairs are recommended for yourself and anyone you bring along. New Kids on the Block + More A trio of enduring talents will be playing together at the Bankers Life Fieldhouse. New Kids on the Block, Paula Abdul, and Boyz II Men will be holding a concert together on Sunday, June 18 at 7:30 p.m. Ticket prices range drastically, from $29 to over $1800 depending on seat location. This is just one of many music events, and others coming to Columbus include Tom Petty, Foreigner, Cheap Trick, Neil Diamond, and Train. Check the listing at Bankers Life Fieldhouse and other nearby venues. This is just a sample of the many things to do in the middle and early parts of the year. Take the chance to try something new at a local event or gathering, and you might end up with a new annual tradition or regular activity. Image via Flickr by IIP Photo Archive used under CC BY 2.0 /cropped from original