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Are you just passing through?

We've asked some of our favorite people what they would do if they had only two hours to spend in our lovely little town. Here's what they said...

The Four Seasons of Culver

Culver is a wonderful 4 season area. Here are some favorite things to do in each of them!

Spring - Enjoy a drink from the Culver Coffee Company, then take a scenic three-mile walk along the lakeside trails from the Academy down to the boathouse and back into town. The route offers beautiful views of the lake and plenty of local wildlife.

A tour of the historic Culver Academies campus is also highly recommended. You’ll find a blend of old and new architecture, each building rich with stories and traditions unique to the Academy.

If you’re visiting on a Sunday, be sure to catch Culver’s military parade at noon — it’s a memorable experience and a true highlight of the community.

Summer - There’s no better time to head to the lake! The town park on the north shore of Lake Max offers a full day of fun for all ages. Enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming at the beach, or simply relax and take in the beautiful lakeside views.

The park’s amazing staff work hard to keep the grounds clean and welcoming, making it a perfect spot for picnics, beach days, and even special celebrations under the pavilions. Kids can sign up for swim lessons, and for a classic lakeside treat, you can dock your boat and stroll over to the Original Root Beer Stand for a burger and some ice cream.

Come make the most of everything Lake Max has to offer!

Fall - Fall is fantastic time of the year to do a “lake lap,” whether by car or by bike. Starting at the lighthouse in the park—where the view of the changing leaves is especially beautiful—the loop around the lake is approximately ten miles.

It’s also a perfect time to explore downtown. After an enjoyable lunch at Café Max, you’ll find plenty of great shops offering clothing, unique boutique items, and handcrafted goods. Be sure to stop by the Culver Academies Museum and Gift Shop on Main Street as well.

Winter - Take advantage of the sporting events at Culver Academies and Culver Community Schools, from exciting hockey and basketball games to the many performances and cultural programs offered on campus.

For great food and an inviting atmosphere, Papa’s on Lake Shore Drive is a must. Whether you’re in the mood for drinks, pizza, or prime rib, you can enjoy a delicious meal with a warm, scenic view of the lake. It’s our favorite family-run restaurant, and it never disappoints.

If you’re feeling adventurous in the winter, you can even walk out onto the frozen lake and watch the ice fishermen at work—a unique experience that captures the charm of the season.

Shop Small on Main Street

You are in Culver, Indiana, and you find yourself with a couple of hours of free time.  Perhaps you just finished lunch, or you are waiting to have supper, at one of our fine restaurants.  Whatever the case, Culver has a unique and entertaining experience waiting for you.  But first, you need to make your way to The Collective, an eclectic shopping and retail experience, located at 120 South Main Street.

In the back, right hand corner of the store, you will find Earthwerks Ceramics and Art, a walk-in studio offering ceramic painting and much more.  Earthwerks has an extensive selection of palates and colors and professional staff that can help the most novice artist.  In a short span of time and at a very affordable cost, ranging from $5 to $125, you can create a unique and worthy piece of art.

 Earthwerks is open to individuals, families and larger groups.  The studio is also available to rent for special events.  Call 574-356-6210 for hours and availability.  You should also check out some of the ‘themed’ events on Facebook. 

 …and don’t forget to pick up something from The Collective on your way out the door.