If you're traveling with the kids, don't miss the Muncie Children's Museum. It's jam-packed with interactive activities and exhibits that will keep the little ones engaged for hours. There's an animal education program if your children are interested in fauna, and the kids can dig for dinosaur bones in a simulated archaeological site. There's also a waterworks display that allows kids to learn how flowing water impacts objects and the environment.
Stop by the Attic Window if you're looking for antiques or vintage home decor. It's a treasure trove of found objects. You can also check out the Caldwell Antique Mall & Flea Market, which features more than 60 vendors in a 19,000-square-foot space.
If you're more interested in science, head on over to the Charles W. Brown Planetarium and Observatory. It's housed at the Ball State University and offers an immersive space experience. Even better, you don't have to pay for the privilege, but make sure you arrive early so you get a seat.
Regardless of your interests, you'll enjoy your time in Muncie. Just make sure you book a room at a hotel that will meet your specific needs.
Best Time to Visit Muncie, IN
Most tourists plan their Muncie vacations during the summer. The kids are out of school, so the whole family can enjoy the adventure. Plus, the warm temperatures and abundant sunshine make outdoor activities more enjoyable than they would be during the colder months. However, if you plan to visit between May and August, prepare to pay a premium for your hotel room thanks to the increased demand.
The shoulder seasons offer more reasonable hotel prices and less tourist traffic. Rainfall increases in spring and autumn, so you'll want to prepare for potential downpours, but the cooler weather might suit some travelers better. Additionally, autumn offers beautiful fall colors wherever you go in the city. Street festivals and other events sometimes take place during the shoulder seasons, as well, so consider researching them before you book your travel plans.
During the winter, highs in Muncie average around 33 degrees F, which means you'll need to pack plenty of layers to keep warm. Lows frequently dip into the teens or below, and snowfall occurs on a regular basis. While you'll get great hotel prices in winter, you might not enjoy yourself as much because of the frigid temperatures.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Muncie, IN:
Muncie by Star Rating
Below we've posted 3 graphs demonstrating mean nightly cost patterns by star rating class in Muncie, IN. You can use these charts to calculate the most cost effective months to make a reservation in Muncie during the year.
Best Luxury Hotel Options in Muncie, IN
4 Star Average Prices: $132.00
If you'd rather spend your Muncie vacation in style, consider an upscale establishment like the Hampton Inn & Suites Muncie. The rooms are a little pricey, but you'll get plenty of value in exchanged for your hard-earned cash. There are 88 rooms and suites in this large hotel, each of which comes with a pillowtop mattress, flat-screen television, premium toiletries, and handy laptop desks that you can use while you lounge in bed. The suites offer even more comfort, with full kitchens, separate seating areas, and dining tables.
You'll find a pool and a fitness center in this hotel making it easy to keep up your workout regimen even while you're on vacation. There's also a business center with a printer, copier, fax machine, and other equipment in case you need to take care of business while you're away. Rooms come with a free hot breakfast every morning and free coffee in the lobby all day. Plus, there are coin-operated laundry machines if you need to refresh your wardrobe or remove a stain from your favorite blouse.
You'll find your fair share of luxury at the Fairfield Inn Muncie. The elegant guest rooms and suites feature a subdued color palette and refined furnishings. The work desk comes with an ergonomic desk chair providing comfort while you catch up on email. There's a pillowtop mattress with each bed as well as premium linens, and the flat-screen television comes with expanded cable channels as well as HBO, so you don't miss an episode of "Game of Thrones."
The complimentary buffet breakfast will fill you up before you head out on your sightseeing adventures while nearby restaurants deliver food right to your hotel room, so you can eat in without having to go out. The fitness center offers cardiovascular equipment as well as free weights, and you'll love the massive indoor pool and spa that are surrounded by comfy lounge chairs.
Best Affordable Hotel Options in Muncie, IN
3 Star Average Prices: $122.73
If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodations, so you don't have to deplete your savings on one vacation, the basic but clean Cardinal Inn & Suites might fit the bill. It's slightly dated and features small baths, but you'll get a flat-screen television with cable access and a small dinette set for enjoying coffee or a meal in your room. Some rooms also come with microwaves and refrigerators, which can help you heat up leftovers and keep your beverages cold.
Your reservation comes with free wireless internet access, air conditioning, a fitness center, and an indoor pool. There are laundry facilities on site as well as a fitness room and a business center. While it won't win any awards for design, it offers plenty of bang for your traveling buck.
You'll also save a bundle at the Super 8 Muncie/Ball St. College Area. It's a two-story building with a plain but appealing facade. The hotel serves a complimentary continental breakfast every morning, so you don't have to spend money on the most important meal of the day. You also get free wireless high-speed internet, and you're allowed to bring a pet for a nominal nightly fee.
You can choose rooms with double or queen beds, each of which comes with a flat-screen television, refrigerator, and coffeemaker. In the bathroom, you'll find complimentary toiletries, plenty of fresh towels, and a hairdryer. There are also ice and vending machines on every floor, so you can stock up on snacks and beverages and then keep them cold in the in-room refrigerator.
