PLACES YOU SHOULD KNOW – Jess Exploring

The Press – New Bookstore in Valpo

Fuel your mind and your soul with a good book and a cup of coffee at the newest Bookstore in Valparaiso, IN! Locally owned and operated, this Bookstore and Coffeeshop combo is the perfect addition to an already unique downtown to visit.

The Press has an inviting atmosphere where you are greeted by the wonderful staff and the colorful spines of the great selection of books the shop has to offer. In a world where everything seems to be moving online, The Press offers a respite from screens and a chance to slow down and appreciate the tangible pleasures of reading. Whether you’re a seasoned reader or just starting out, a trip to the press is a worthwhile experience.

One of my favorite things (besides the coffee..we will get to that) is the cozy, vintage vibe of the shop. Once you pick out a new book from their great selection of genres, there are plenty of spots to sit and get lost in your new read. Don’t see what you are looking for in the store? You can check out there online selection or request a special order item! Browse The Press site here. Another thing I like is their loyalty rewards program. For every $100 you spend, you get a $10 gift certificate for your next purchase!

Ok, let’s get to the coffee.

Along with classic brews, they have a selection of seasonal creations. I tried out the Shake the Frost and highly recommend. Brown Sugar shaken espresso with cinnamon cold foam…yummm. Pair your locally roasted cup of joe with one of their locally made bagels or pastries.

I definitely will be back to try more of the seasonal creations like the Botanical Tonic. More of tea person? They have you covered too. See their coffee menu here.

With the warmer months approaching, you can also enjoy The Press patio. They will also be hosting wine nights at the shop featuring the local LambStone Cellars Winery. This just adds to the unique experience of this shop. Keep up to date with the events and The Press news by following them on Facebook here.

Whether I need a caffeine boost, new read, or cozy spot to work on my next blog post, The Press is going to be my new go to spot. Besides the shop itself, I love the local vibe that this business conveys and that they also support other local businesses. The downside of the The Press? Is a purely selfish reason. I can’t get my fix on Mondays, but everyone needs a day of right?

Thank you for reading and see you on the next blog!

-JessExploring

The Press

9 Lincolnway
Valparaiso, IN 46383
219-286-6079

Mon:	Closed
Tue:	7 AM – 6 PM
Wed:	7 AM – 6 PM
Thu:	7 AM – 6 PM
Fri:	7 AM – 6 PM
Sat:	8 AM – 5 PM
Sun:	8 AM – 5 PM

Coffee bar closes at 4 PM daily

https://valpopress.com/

Where the Bison Roam in Indiana – Ouabache State Park

This post contains affiliate links. I may receive commission at no cost to you.

If you want to catch a glimpse of Bison in Indiana, you actually have a couple options! One of my favorites is Ouabache State Park. This hidden gem one of 24 Indiana State Parks and is located in northeastern Indiana, near the town of Bluffton. It covers an area of over 1,100 acres and is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and beavers, and of course Bison. This park has roughly a 10 bison herd spread across a 20 acre viewing area with a walking path going around.

Bison, also known as American buffalo, were once plentiful in Indiana but were hunted to near extinction in the 1800s. Today, bison can be found in a few places in Indiana, including state parks and private farms. The Indiana bison population is estimated to be around 600 animals. At Ouabache, you can enjoy the roughly 1.8 mile Buffalo Pen Loop to view the parks herd. This is an easy trail and is kid and dog friendly.

The park has several hiking trails, including a trail that leads to a fire tower with views of the surrounding area. In the winter, the park offers cross-country skiing and snowmobiling. Ouabache State Park is known for its fall foliage, with the leaves on the trees turning vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow and is definitely on my list to check out this fall. Kunkel Lake located inside the park and is a popular spot for fishing and canoeing.

The park features a large campground with over 100 sites, including electric and and a youth campground. There is also a softball diamond, tennis and basketball court, or check out the Wildlife Exhibit! Check out their calendar of events to catch a session with a Park Naturalist! With variety of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, and swimming, this park is a must to add to your list to visit.

https://www.in.gov/dnr/state-parks/parks-lakes/ouabache-state-park/

See you on the next adventure!

Jess Exploring

It’s Tulip Time in Holland, MI

What to do this weekend? Visit Tulip Time in Holland, MI of course! Roughly a two hour drive from Northwest Indiana, this is a one of a kind Spring Celebration.

What is Tulip Time?

Back in 1927, a biology teacher, Miss Lida Rogers, suggested her idea of “Civic Beauty” for the town of Holland, MI which was largely founded and inhabited by Dutch Settlers. She suggested that the tulip should be adopted and planted as the cities flower due to the close ties to the Netherlands. In 1928, her vision came to life as the City Council approved to fly in and plant 100,000 tulips from the Netherlands that bloomed throughout the city in 1929. Now in its 94th year, you can experience over 5 million Tulips blooming every year!

Where to see the Tulips?

Everywhere, and I mean EVERYWHERE! The colorful flower is strewn across the city streets and parks but here are the best spots to stop and explore!

Windmill Island Gardens

One of the most popular locations is Windmill Island Gardens for a good reason as well. Located at 1 Lincoln Ave, Holland, MI you get to experience not only the over 125,000 tulips but explore the working Dutch Windmill and historic replica buildings that make you feel like you are in the Netherlands! As a plant lover, I highly recommend checking out the greenhouse on the grounds as well. Tickets are required -Adults $12: Kids 3-15 $6.

Centennial Park

This free park located at 239 River Ave, Holland, MI is another one of my go to spots. With the beautiful fountain and pathways, this is a perfect walk after dining at one of the downtown restaurants like The Windmill Restaurant, Curragh Irish Pub, or the New Holland Brewing Company. Tip: Make Reservations for anywhere in the vicinity of Holland if you plan on dining during Tulip Time!

Other Top Spots:

Veldheers Tulip Farm & DeKlomp Wodden Shoe Factory – 12775 Quincy St. Holland, MI – Tickets – Adults: $15, Kids: 3-13 $18

Nelis’ Dutch Village – 12350 James St, Holland, MI – Tickets – $17 Children under 2 – Free

Festival Events

You can also catch a concert this year or book a walking tour during the fest. Country Star Sara Evans will be performing May 12th or you can experience Elton Rohn, an Elton John Tribute! Don’t miss a Dutch Dance as well going on at Centennial Park! A full list of event & performance information can be found HERE

See you there!

If you were looking for plans this weekend Tulip Time day is absolutely worth the trip. I know I plan on being there with my camera! Happy Exploring!