Spring breakers find fun in own backyard

Spring break: the long-awaited opportunity to put away the books and bring out the bathing suits. This is the week-long retreat when the only things that matter are the beach, sand and partying. \nUnless, of course, you are one of the students who, for reasons varying from a depleted bank account to choosing a relaxing week at home, stay in Indiana. \n"I'm staying home (in Anderson) because I don't want to spend money," said freshman Emily Barr. "I'm just going to stay home and watch TV." \nAlthough Indiana cannot provide a beachside stay or a sun-kissed tan, the Hoosier state has some events that might just make this spring break worth talking about. \nFor those interested in shopping, Indiana has more options than someone might think. Aside from the large malls like Circle Centre, The Fashion Mall on 82nd Street in Indianapolis and the Scottsdale Mall in South Bend, new shops offering unique items are beginning to pop up. The newly opened Clay Terrace Mall in Carmel offers upscale stores such as White House Black Market, a store featuring black and white clothing and accessories, as well as Z Gallerie, a distinctive home décor store. \nDelaney's Boutique, open in Indianapolis and Fishers, sells clothing from places like Los Angeles and New York, as well as jewelry, makeup, purses and accessories. Broad Ripple is another option for shoppers looking for unique buys.\nFor those shoppers on a tighter budget, outlet malls could be a money-saving solution. Edinburgh Premium Outlet boasts Coach, Nike and Polo Ralph Lauren items at discount prices. \nIf shopping is not your idea of a great time, there are a number of camping sites across the Indiana. Though some of the major camping attractions remain closed until May, Brown County is open year round. Hiking, picnicking, swimming, fishing and horseback riding are all activities available to those who visit this site.\nLake Monroe, the largest lake in Indiana, is located in Bloomington and also is open all year. \n"It's fun to take a group of friends to (Lake) Monroe," said sophomore Rachel Amrhein.\nMounds State Park in Anderson is an alternative to the traditional camping experience. The site features 10 "earthworks" built by Adena-Hopewell Native Americans, and the White River is close by for fishing. \nBut for those who wish to stay in the social scene during spring break, local restaurants might get the job done. Fans of Irish food can enjoy the Claddagh in downtown Indianapolis, which offers traditional stew, fish and chips and shepherd's pie. Welliver's, a smorgasbord in Hagerstown, is known for a wide variety of foods such as homemade bread, seafood and dessert. Renowned for great-tasting Angus beef, Sondy's Sycamore Grill in Kokomo has raving customer reviews. H2O Sushi in Broad Ripple not only makes traditional Japanese food but also offers some non traditional ingredients. Its owners and chefs are all Indiana natives. \nIf all else fails, there are some out-of-the-ordinary places that could prove for an interesting visit. There is a toboggan run located in Pokagon State Park near Angola, where a refrigerated twin track is open to visitors wanting to ride. Skiers can enjoy 17 trails and a 400-foot vertical drop at Perfect North Slopes in Lawrenceberg. Exercise enthusiasts can go for a run or bike ride on the Monon trail, which stretches about 15 miles throughout the state. \nThe nationally recognized Indianapolis Zoo is open to the public, as is the Children's Museum of Indianapolis, where the newest exhibit, Dinosphere, is now open. Race enthusiasts can go on a tour of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway before visiting the Hall of Fame Museum located inside the track.\n-- Contact Staff Writer Kimberly Laughlin at kmlaughl@indiana.edu.