When gray skies roll in or temperatures drop, there’s still plenty to see, do, and enjoy indoors around Muncie and Delaware County. Looking to get lost in a gallery? See a show? Or just wanting a warm way to spend time with family? No matter the forecast, there’s something to do for everyone.
Minnetrista – Ball Stores Exhibit (and More!)
There’s always something happening indoors at Minnetrista, but the Ball Stores exhibit is one you truly don’t want to miss. This nostalgic display brings back the magic of one of Muncie’s most beloved shopping destinations, complete with its signature brown plaid, vintage artifacts, and heartfelt memories from generations of local shoppers. It’s a cozy step back in time that captures the charm of downtown’s golden era, and with a refresh planned for the holiday season, you’ll have the perfect excuse to come back again.
Other Minnetrista experiences to check out include:
- The Bob Ross Experience — Explore the L.L. Ball Home where The Joy of Painting was filmed, surrounded by original art and artifacts that bring Bob’s creative philosophy to life and the new Nestled Cabins exhibit.
- The Oakhurst Experience — Step inside the historic Ball family home to explore interactive exhibits on reading, nature, and home life through the eyes of Elisabeth “Betty” Ball.
Elm Street Brewing – Food & Drinks
Elm Street Brewing is one of those rare places that feels just right on a dreary evening. Its warm brick walls, live acoustic music, and hearty menu create the perfect backdrop for dinner or drinks with friends. The brewery hosts live music throughout the year, usually featuring local and regional singer-songwriters who bring an easygoing energy to the space.
It’s also a family-friendly spot during the day, with wood-fired pizza, burgers, and rotating specials that keep things interesting. Grab a table near the stage on a weekend night, order one of their seasonal brews or a cider, and settle in for a cozy night out that feels worlds away from the weather outside.
Muncie Civic Theatre — Miracle on 34th Street
Nothing lifts the mood like live theatre, and Muncie Civic Theatre has been delivering that joy to Delaware County audiences for more than a century. This fall, the theatre brings the holiday classic Miracle on 34th Street to its historic downtown stage.
Stepping into the Civic feels like entering another era: ornate architecture, the low hum of the audience, the anticipation as lights dim and the curtain rises. Tickets often sell quickly for holiday productions, so plan ahead and make a night of it, perhaps with dinner downtown before the show. This production is perfect for friends and families.
Dates: Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, November 28 through December 21.
📸 Creds: Muncie Civic Theatre & Kishel Photography
Aerial Annex – Silks Classes & More
If you’re looking for an activity that’s equal parts workout and adventure, Aerial Annex offers classes that will quite literally lift your spirits. This local studio teaches aerial silks, lyra, and other circus-inspired disciplines in a welcoming, supportive environment. Beginners are always welcome, and classes focus on strength, flexibility, and fun rather than perfection.
For anyone who’s ever wanted to try something completely new, aerial arts are an empowering way to challenge yourself and experience movement in a fresh way. Classes run year-round, making it a perfect way to stay active indoors through the colder months. Check their current class schedule online to find beginner sessions and workshops that fit your comfort level.
Madjax — Muncie’s Maker Hub
At the corner of Madison and Jackson Streets, Madjax is a creative ecosystem. Inside its 80,000 square feet of studios, classrooms, and maker spaces, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators work side by side to bring ideas to life.
There’s always something happening here: classes on making vinyl window clings, a stained-glass workshop, hands-on sessions in woodworking and carpentry, and more. Plus, every third Thursday the Maker’s Market brings local vendors and craftspeople together, turning the space into a lively hub of creativity and community connection.
Browse the event calendar to see what’s coming up. There’s a good chance you’ll find a workshop or class that sparks your curiosity and gives you something new to create!
Made in Muncie — Paint Your Own Pottery
Located in the heart of downtown, Made in Muncie is the perfect spot to spend a cozy afternoon getting creative. This bright, friendly studio invites guests to paint their own pottery: everything from mugs and plates to ornaments and keepsake gifts. Plus, no experience is needed; all supplies are provided, and the staff is happy to help you get started.
It’s a relaxing way to spend time with friends, family, or a date while staying warm and creative indoors. Pick a pre-made piece—anything from kitchenware to seasonal décor or fun knick-knacks—then choose your colors, grab a brush, and get creative! Once you’re done, Made in Muncie will fire your masterpiece in the kiln and let you know when it’s ready to pick up.
Clancy’s Village Bowl – Family Night Out
Gather the crew and make it a night of friendly competition at Clancy’s Village Bowl. Clancy’s offers 56 bowling lanes, a full snack bar, and fun event nights—think cosmic bowling, theme nights, or friendly tournaments.
Because weekends and themed nights can get busy, it’s smart to call ahead and reserve a lane if possible. That way you won’t be waiting when you’re ready to bowl, and you’ll make the most of your family evening out.
Gibson Arena – Roll into the Fun
Gibson Arena is one of Muncie’s nostalgic favorites and a perfect spot for gliding indoors when the weather isn’t cooperating. The rink offers public skating sessions for all ages and experience levels, along with skate rental and birthday party reservations. It’s located at 2610 S. Mock Ave. and has been a local mainstay since 1940, originally built as an ice arena.
The wooden floor gives that classic rink feel: smooth, inviting, and ideal for both new skaters and longtime fans. All around, Gibson offers that cozy, community-skate vibe that feels like a warm tradition when it’s cold outside.
DOMA at Ball State University — Explore Art and Culture
The David Owsley Museum of Art, located on Ball State’s campus, offers a quiet and inspiring retreat from busy schedules and gray skies. With more than 11,000 works spanning cultures and centuries, DOMA is a world-class museum in the heart of Muncie. Visitors can wander through galleries filled with European paintings, Asian sculptures, African artifacts, and contemporary American art, all for free.
DOMA frequently rotates its exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see, and art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike will find something to love.
Muncie Children’s Museum — Splash, Build, and Imagine
When the weather turns cold, the Muncie Children’s Museum is the perfect spot for hands-on indoor fun. One of its most popular attractions, the White River Water Table, lets kids splash, build dams, and watch rivers flow with features like raining clouds and a mini tornado simulator.
You can also explore the Muncie & Western Railroad Exhibit, a detailed model train setup inspired by local landmarks, complete with dress-up and cargo-sorting stations. Around every corner, there’s something new to discover, from the Ant Wall and Discovery Park to the Make Believe Theater and Barnyard. It’s a place where learning feels like play and curiosity takes center stage. Membership options are available to keep the fun going all year-round.
Charles W. Brown Planetarium — A Journey Through Space
Located on Ball State University’s campus, the Charles W. Brown Planetarium offers a breathtaking escape into the stars. As Indiana’s largest planetarium, it features a 360° dome, surround sound, and stunning 4K projections that make you feel like you’re drifting through space.
Free public shows are offered most Friday and Saturday evenings, covering everything from black holes to Big Bird’s adventures among the constellations. It’s an awe-inspiring indoor experience for all ages, no matter the weather outside.
Make It a Full Day
If you’re planning a weekend or staycation, mix and match a few of these experiences. Start your afternoon exploring Minnetrista or DOMA, stop for an early dinner and live music at Elm Street Brewing, then unwind in the evening with a show at Muncie Civic Theatre.
And if you still have time in between, follow our Thrift Trail and spend a few hours treasure-hunting through the area’s vintage and secondhand shops.
Rain or shine, there’s always something new to discover in Muncie and Delaware County.
