Muncie has a history that goes back almost two hundred and fifty years to when the Lenape first settled in the area. It has been a manufacturing hub since the late 1800s, and for much of that time, Ball Brothers was one of the largest employers in the city. The university, Ball State University, now enjoys that distinction. Ball State is an NCAA Division I school, and the Cardinals are supported with an intense passion by the locals. Muncie has a longstanding reputation of having an excellent art and music scene. In addition to great live music throughout the year, there are numerous festivals that draw extra visitors to the town in summer. Finding a place to live that close to the action is optimal, but the size of the city makes everything feel nearby, even if you have a small commute to contend with.
Life in Muncie
Transportation
Muncie is served by MITS. Students typically ride the #1 – Ball State University route, which runs through the center of the entire city. The Muncie Indiana Transit System is an efficient bus service, and as long as you don't need to go anywhere on Sundays, should be enough to meet your transportation needs.
Where to play
Muncie has a well preserved downtown that gives a glimpse into the city's past while letting modern residents enjoy themselves. Good shopping, a few museums and galleries, and the most concentrated collection of dining establishments in the city makes this the place to enjoy life in Muncie.
Attractions
One of the most popular attractions in Muncie is known as Minnetrista. The word actually means “gathering place by the water” according to the official Minnetrista website. What the facility actually is is a museum that commemorates the history of central Indiana. In addition, there are gardens and natural areas around the main building for you to explore for free. People with children will enjoy the Muncie Children’s Museum. Those who appreciate art should make a point of visiting the David Owsley Museum of Art. Finally, a great and quirky attraction for anyone who ever loved model airplanes as a kid, Muncie is home to the National Model Aviation Museum.
Dining
If you're more concerned about great food than you are about paying extra for atmosphere, then you need to go to Amazing Joe’s Grill, for some of the best American food in the city. On the other hand, if you love going out for an experience as well as for the food, you should go to the Domo Japanese Steakhouse. Not only is the food delicious here, but the décor is also impeccable and you can have the enjoyment of watching the hibachi chefs cook your food right before your eyes. Students are big fans of Thai Smile 2, a quick and affordable Thai restaurant that is very near to Ball University.
Bars
The Heorot Pub and Draught House is all about making sure that everyone who comes through the doors enjoys sitting down and having a pint. Even though there isn't a local microbrewery, there are several establishments who support the craft beer movement, and Savages Ale House is one of the best. In addition to having a very eclectic beer list, the bar also has food that is a cut above the standard pub fare.
Culture
Doc’s Music Hall is one of the best venues for live music in Muncie. It is a great place to come to if you like to enjoy a wide variety of acts, as they bring people in from the local area, as well as national performers. The David Owsley Museum of Art is home to a masterful collection of art that any art lover should take time to appreciate. It exhibits art from around the world from all major time periods, and also brings numerous travelling exhibitions to the people of Muncie. Live Theatre is also alive and well in Muncie, in the form of the Muncie Civic Theatre, which produces a large number of musicals, and the occasional play each year.
Events
First Thursday Art is an even that takes place throughout the summer months in Muncie, where galleries stay open late and people stroll the downtown to enjoy the opening of new art shows. The model airplane museum also hosts the National Model Aviation Day, which features displays and air shows for all enthusiasts of the hobby. The Festival on the Green is an annual event that is put together by the Muncie Arts and Culture Council and the Muncie Symphony Orchestra. The day features exhibits, food, hands on displays with musical instruments, and culminates in a concert at the end of the day.
Shopping
Simon is one of the largest companies that build shopping malls in the United States, and any time you visit a Simon mall you know you're going to get the quintessential mall experience. Simon has a presence in Muncie, with the Muncie Mall, anchored by a Macy’s, Sears, Carson’s and JC Penny. If you're looking to experience the complete opposite of the typical shopping mall experience, then head to the Caldwell Antique Mall & Flea Market. This unique destination on North Wheeling Avenue is home to more than 60 vendors selling all types of treasures, curios and antiques, and the experience of browsing through the eclectic mix of displays is worth the trip.
Sports
The Ball State Cardinals have been an athletic force to be reckoned with for many years, and the people of Muncie love to come out and support them in all sports, men’s and women’s. The football team participates in two intense rivalries. The first is with Indiana State University, and the other, is with Northern Illinois, whom they play for the Bronze Stalk Trophy each year. Blaine Bishop, four time Pro-Bowl safety, came out of the Cardinal program. The team plays it's games at Scheumann Stadium, located on Tillotson Avenue. The 22,500 seats are often packed, especially when one of the team’s hated rivals come to town.
Outdoors
If you're a golfer you won't have any troubles keeping yourself interested in Muncie. The Albany Golf Course, Crestview, and the Elks Country Club & Lodge are both excellent courses. White River is an excellent place to get out in a canoe or kayak and explore the local waterways. The Cardinal Greenway Trail is the crown jewel of the local area. This is a rail-to-trail project that spans 62 miles and 5 counties, and the paved trail is perfect for long-distance cycling. Mansfield Park on the southern side of the city has a lovely picnic shelter and horseshoe pit, as well as fishing and access to the Cardinal Greenway trail.