Talk of the Town - Whitley County

By Jennifer Zartman Romano

You’re not going to Florida. There’s no plans lounge in your swimsuit on the beach in California. In fact, you’re looking forward to a long week of unpredictable Indiana weather and hours upon hours of time to make interesting during Spring Break.

Talk of the Town has done a little legwork for you in hopes of making your Spring Break spectacular in and around Whitley County…

Merry Lea

Merry Lea Learning Center, located near the Whitley-Noble County line, just off SR 109, is gearing up for “Full-Time Recess” during Spring Break, March 31-April 4.

Full-Time Recess is a day camp opportunity for students in grades 1-5 and will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. each day. During the week, campers will participate in games, hikes, crafts, learn survival skills and all about nature.

“Each year we have different themes and activities also,” said Jane Lutwiller of Merry Lea.

Lutwiller said this year’s highlights include visits from two guest naturalists, Erik Vosteen and John Rowe. Vosteen will teach children about primitive skills and tool-making and Rowe will talk about amphibians.

“We have a lot of fun playing in nature and taking hikes,” Lutwiller said, adding that she’s very excited about this year’s activities.

Lutwiller said Merry Lea has been offering Full-Time Recess for seven years.

The cost to attend the full week of camp is $15, but space is limited and reservations should be made immediately. To reserve a spot, call Jane or Dana at 799-5869.

Whitley County Family YMCA

Another day camp opportunity awaits at the Whitley County Family YMCA this week for students in kindergarten through grade 8, from March 31-April 4.

“Keep us in mind when you start planning your summer schedule,” Miller added. “We offer a full-day summer camp program too.” 

For more information, contact the Whitley County Family YMCA at 244-9622.

Bones Theatre

Bones Theatre will open their doors throughout the week of spring break for matinee movies kids will enjoy. Their kids deal is a big hit – with the movie ticket, a drink, popcorn and candy for $10. Bones Theatre owner Chris Jones said he has several fun movies scheduled for the week. To check the latest movie lineup, access their website at www.bonestheatre.com

Whitley County Historical Museum

The Whitley County Historical Museum makes a great family activity. The museum is located at 108 West Jefferson Street.

According to new museum director Dani Tippmann, the museum is now offering some more family-friendly visiting hours. The museum is now open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and on Fridays from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.

Admission is free.

Paige’s Crossing

A real hot spot for family fun in Whitley County, Paige’s Crossing, just off US 30 east of Columbia City, will be opening up in time for spring break.

“We’re getting everything opened up,” said owner Tim Summers. The newly-expanded complex has expanded in the past year to include some new rides and a roller coaster.

“Everything should be open by spring break,” Summers added.

The facility will be open daily from 10 a.m.-9 p.m., with modified hours for the roller coaster and go karts during the spring months on weeknights.

Paige’s Crossing is offering a special that will help the pocketbook – visitors can purchase 10 ride tickets for $21 which is a savings of about $4. To get the special, ask for the “10 for 21” special at the ticket counter.

You can also visit Paige’s Crossing online at www.paigescrossing.

Do you have any additional spring break ideas families might enjoy in and around Whitley County? If so…e-mail them to jennifer@talkofthetownwc.com and we’ll post them here.