- Indiana Dunes
Transcription
- Indiana Dunes
Indiana ACTIVITIES Dunes Beaches & Beyond GUIDE E AT · P L AY · P O S H · Y A ST WELCOME TO THE DUNES Visitors are often surprised to discover... that the Indiana Dunes has a 15-mile Lake Michigan coastline with beaches for splashing, playing, bathing and relaxing. They’re even more surprised to discover the treasures that lie just beyond the sandy shore—great hiking trails, fantastic fishing spots and unique restaurants, hotels and shops. It will take more than a day to explore all the marvels of Indiana Dunes Country, so we invite you to make a weekend trip out of it. In this guide, we’ll fill you in on all the fun and exciting things just waiting for you and your family to discover. Find Indiana Dunes Tourism on social media... for insider access, quick answers, up-to-date information and helpful tips. Look for Indiana Dunes Tourism Look for @indianadunes “Top 10 Best Family Beach” —PARENTS MAGAZINE “Top 51 scenic hikes” —USA TODAY “Top 10 Urban Escape” —NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC “ONE OF 50 NATURAL WONDERS IN 50 STATES” —CNN “10 BEST STATE PARK” —USA TODAY 2 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | ACTIVITIES GUIDE KEMIL BEACH WHAT’S INSIDE Dunes 1014 Indiana Dunes Attractions 6 About Indiana Dunes State Park 10 About Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 11 Around Town 12 Must See & Do 14 Family Fun 16 History & Culture 20 Arts & Entertainment 22 Sports & Recreation 24 Kayaking, Fishing & Boating 24 Hiking & Biking 26 Golfing 27 Sporting, Disc Golf & Skateboard Parks 28 Bowling, Billiards & Skating 28 Swimming 29 Community Parks & Gardens 30 Where to Stay 32 Map 38 Day Trips 44 Dining & Nightlife 46 Shopping 60 Events 66 Fall Drives 68 Winter Activities 70 Visitor Information 72 Getting Here 74 Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 3 INDIANA DUNES ATTRACTIONS BEACHES & HIKING Central Avenue Beach Access This beach, which doesn’t have lifeguards, was closed in 2015 due to erosion. Call before visiting. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 151 Central Ave., Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .27 mile on paved road or .17 mile and 42 steps on wooded trail Parking spaces: 70 Cowles Bog This is where Henry Chandler Cowles did his landmark study of the dunes’ vegetation succession. Hike to the beach and back on 4.5 miles of trails. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 1618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu 6 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | INDIANA DUNES WEST BEACH Dunbar Beach Access Nice stretch of beach. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 300 W. Lake Front Dr., Michigan City, IN 46360 (Beverly Shores) Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .06 mile and 28 stair steps Parking spaces: 26 Kemil Road Beach Access Scenic beach. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 27 N. East State Park Rd. (State Park Road and Lake Front Drive), Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .24 mile Parking spaces: 81 Indiana Dunes State Park Hike 16.5 miles of trails. Find camping, picnicking, showers, a snack bar, a camp store, a gift shop, a swimming beach with lifeguards, and programs with rangers. Hours: 7am – 11pm Address: 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of U.S. 12) Phone: 219-926-1952 Cost: $7/car Indiana resident; $12/ car out-of-state; annual passes available; campsites additional; walkins and individuals on buses $2 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Distance from parking lot to beach: .05 mile Parking spaces: 1,800 Lifeguards on duty 11am – 6pm daily Memorial Day to Labor Day Handicap accessible Lake View Picnic Area & Beach Access Picnic shelter, beach. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise – 11pm Address: 50 W. Lake Front Drive, Michigan City, IN 46360 (Beverly Shores) Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .02 mile and 22 stair steps Parking spaces: 40 Handicap accessible (picnic/viewing area) Mount Baldy Open only for ranger-led tours. Hours: Call for next program Address: 101 Rice St. (U.S. 12), Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Beach, pavilion, handicapaccessible trail and pier. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 6150 U.S. 12 (100 Riverwalk Dr.), Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .14 mile Parking spaces: 125 Handicap accessible Porter Beach Access Swimming, beach sports. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 3057 Wabash Ave., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .08 (near lot) to .16 mile Parking spaces: 66 Handicap accessible West Beach Hiking trails, lifeguarded swimming beach and picnicking. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary, IN (Gary address, but property is in Portage, IN) Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: $6/car charged from Memorial Day to Labor Day; buses $30; walk-ins free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .34 mile Parking spaces: 596 Lifeguards on duty 10am – 6pm daily Memorial Day to Labor Day. Handicap accessible ACH WEST BE HIKING Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm Joseph Bailly, the first known nonnative area resident, set up a fur trading post here in 1822. After viewing the homestead, hike to nearby Chellberg Farm, which looks like it did in the 1800s. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 618 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Glenwood Dunes Trail This trail is used for hiking and horseback riding (and crosscountry skiing in the winter). Bring your own horse or skis. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 1475 N. Brummitt Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Great Marsh Trail Walk to the observation platform for wetland views. Birds are abundant. During fall and spring, see flocks of migrating ducks and geese. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: Broadway Ave., Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu LA P O RTAG E K L A RIVERW AND KEFRONT Heron Rookery Trail The 1.6-mile trail is no longer an active heron rookery, but is a prime location for bird watching, fishing and viewing spring wildflowers. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 1320 N. 600 East, Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Little Calumet River Trail This trail takes hikers past Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm and traverses a river, woods, wetlands and a prairie. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: Howe Rd., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Pinhook Bog Walk atop floating boardwalk to see Indiana’s only true bog. Open only during open houses. Hours: Call for next program Address: 700 N. Wozniak Rd., Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Tolleston Dunes This scenic trail leads over the high ridges of Tolleston Dunes and through wetlands and an oak savanna. Hours: Sunrise – 30 minutes after sunset Address: 5800 Dunes Hwy., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu PORTER BEACH Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 7 A LOOK BACK INDIANA DUNES, 1925 Indiana Governor Edward Jackson presents a check to the owner of the land in order to create Indiana Dunes State Park in 1925. The park just celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2015. In 2016, Indiana celebrates 200 years of statehood, the National Park Service and Indiana’s parks each celebrate 100 years, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore celebrates 50 years and Indiana Dunes Tourism celebrates 30 years. Celebrate with us by taking part in our “Take a Closer Look” scavenger hunt or attending one of the many anniversary events. Share your experience: tag @indianadunes and use #CloserLook2016. Learn more at IndianaDunes.com/2016 8 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | INDIANA DUNES PICTURE PERFECT The Indiana Dunes: No visit would be complete without your photo with Lake Michigan behind you. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond and you may just make it into next year’s guide! Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN UNIQUE WAYS TO EXPERIENCE THE DUNES HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM From The Air To enhance your Indiana Dunes trip, enjoy a relaxing one-hour flight over the dunes and the rest of Indiana Dunes Country. Begin your journey at: Porter County Regional Airport Address: 4207 Murvihill Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Eagle Aircraft Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 6pm, Saturday & Sunday 8am – 5pm or by appointment Address: 4001 Murvihill Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-0132 Cost: One hour flight for up to three people $189 ($325 with dinner and hotel stay). Fly where you want to go. Web: jseagle.com/discovery-flights/ Region Flyers Hours: Open 7 days a week by appointment Address: 4601 Murvihill Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 844-435-9694 Cost: One hour flight for up to three people is $150. Licensed pilots can rent and fly for $115 an hour. Web: regionflyers.com TIP: ARRIVE EARLY Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore beach access parking lots fill up quickly over Memorial Day weekend, the 4th of July and Labor Day weekend. So arrive before 10am in order to get a parking spot, and remember that the sites with the most parking (and the best chance you’ll find a spot) are Indiana Dunes State Park and the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s West Beach. It’s also a good idea to arrive before 10am or after 3pm on great-weather weekends in the summer. Parking is generally not an issue on weekdays year round, or on weekends in spring, fall and winter. Indiana Dunes Scavenger Hunt Ready for an adventure? Then do the Indiana Dunes Scavenger Hunt. Pick up the form and map at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (see listing on page 72). You’ll be guided to nine great sites in the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, where you’ll hunt for answers to a series of questions. Answer eight questions and return to the Visitor Center for a free poster and a tote bag. Discover a Shipwreck The J.D. Marshall Preserve, located in Lake Michigan, near Indiana Dunes State Park, was created to preserve the wreckage of the J.D. Marshall, which sank in 1911. SCUBA divers can dive the preserve, but are told to “take only pictures and leave only bubbles.” Information and artifacts are on display at the Indiana Dunes State Park Nature Center. Visit in.gov/dnr/ parklake/files/sp-JDM_FAQ.PDF for more information. Conquer the 3 Dune Challenge! The 3 Dune Challenge involves climbing the three highest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park (see listing on page 6). Do it and we’ll give you a commemorative sticker at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (see listing on page 72). Visit indianadunes.com/3dc to learn more. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 9 ABOUT INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK How do I get there? Take State Road 49 North from Interstate 94 or the Indiana Toll Road. It leads into the park. What are the hours/entry fee? Hours are 7am – 11pm daily. Entrance fee is $7 for in-state vehicles, $12 for out-of-state vehicles and $2 for people on buses or walk-ins. Annual passes are available. Admission is free weekdays November to mid – April. Is alcohol allowed? No. Are personal motorized watercraft, dune buggies or kayaks allowed? Kayaks can be put in at the far west side of the park. Personal motorized watercraft and dune buggies are not allowed. Are pets allowed? Pets are not allowed on the swimming beach. However, if they are on a six-foot leash, they can be on other parts of the beach and anywhere else in the park. SWIM SAFETY Do not swim when high waves are present. Even strong swimmers can be carried away by large waves. If a current is taking you away from shore, don’t try to swim against it. Instead, swim parallel to the shoreline until you are out of the current. Parents should keep close watch on their children. Do you close the beach when high waves are present or E. coli levels are high? If dangerous rip currents or high E. coli levels are present, Indiana Dunes State Park will bar people from entering the water, although they can still enjoy the beach. Signs alerting the public about closures are placed at the main gate at 11am on the day of the closure. In addition, the park advises people to visit ripcurrents.noaa.gov/forecasts.shtml (click on Chicago, IL and Northern Indiana, IN) for rip current conditions along Lake Michigan, and in.gov/ idem/4151.htm (click on BeachGuard Online Monitoring System) for E. coli closures and advisories. Can I climb the dunes? There are 16.5 miles of trails that traverse the dunes, and they are rated from easy to difficult. Be sure to get a trail map from the park’s gatehouse or Nature Center. Is there camping? Lodging? Dining? The park has a state-of-the-art campground with water and electrical hookups. Make your reservations as early as possible (call 866-622-6746 or visit camp.IN.gov). Food and snacks are sold at the pavilion during the summer and a campground store, but there are no lodging facilities or restaurants within the park boundaries. Can I bring my own firewood into the park? Campers and picnickers who live in Indiana can bring their own firewood as long as the bark has been removed (since the larvae of invasive insects live under the bark). Federal quarantines prevent people from other states from bringing their own firewood to Indiana. Firewood can also be brought in if it is purchased from a store and has a USDA compliance stamp; if it is purchased from a local firewood vendor with a state compliance stamp; if it is kiln-dried scrap lumber; or if it is purchased from an on-site vendor. Regardless of where it is obtained, people should burn all of the wood at their campsite and not leave it for the next camper. Visit firewood. dnr.IN.gov for more information. Can I grill at the beach? No grilling is allowed on the beach, but people can bring grills to use on the concrete near the beach, in picnic areas, and in the west lot. In addition, charcoal grills are provided in the picnic areas and shelters. Do you have regularly-scheduled education programs, and do you do special programs for groups? The park offers programs seven days a week in the summer, and on weekends the rest of the year. A schedule is posted at the park. For more information, or to arrange a private program for a group, call 219-926-1390. Can visitors earn a patch for completing activities? The park has a Pin Program, and people can earn a pin by completing different activities. For more information, call 219-926-1390. Where can I get more information? Visit in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm or call 219-926-1952. ABOUT INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE How do I get to the beach? The National Lakeshore’s 15 miles of beach are accessible from the following access points, most of which you can reach right from U.S. 12 (see map on 5). • • • • • • • Central Avenue Beach Access: On Central Avenue, north of U.S. 12 in Michigan City. Lake View Picnic Area & Beach Access: Lake Front Drive at Lake View in Beverly Shores. Dunbar Beach Access: Intersection of Lake Front Drive and Dunbar Avenue in Beverly Shores. Kemil Road Beach Access: North end of East State Park Road, at Lakefront Drive in Beverly Shores. Porter Beach Access: From U.S. 12, take Waverly Road north to Roskin to 3057 Wabash in Porter. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk: From U.S. 12, take State Road 249 South and follow park signs to site in Portage. West Beach: From U.S. 12, go north on Lake/Porter County Line Road in Portage. What are the hours and is there an enhanced amenity fee? The National Lakeshore is open from sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset at most sites. Lake View Picnic Area stays open until 11pm, and Pinhook Bog is open only during scheduled programs. The enhanced amenity fee is $6 at West Beach or $30 per bus. Walkins are free. Other sites are free. Is alcohol allowed? Alcohol is only allowed on beach sites from Kemil to Central Avenue. No glass bottles. Are personal motorized watercraft, dune buggies or kayaks allowed? The park does not have a boat launch and personal motorized watercraft and dune buggies are not allowed. Kayaks and other non-motorized watercraft can be launched at all National Lakeshore access points except West Beach. Are pets allowed? Pets on leashes are allowed on the beaches east of Indiana Dunes State Park and on all trails except Glenwood Dune, Great Marsh and Pinhook Bog. For people with horses, the Glenwood Dune Trail at U.S. 20 and Schoolhouse Road is open for riding March 16 through December 14. Do you close the beach when high waves are present or E. coli levels are high? No, but remember lifeguards are only at West Beach, and only during summer. Call 219-9267561, prompt #2, for E.coli levels. Can I climb the dunes? There are trails of varying difficulty, everything from the handicap accessible trail at Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk to the more challenging one-mile West Beach Succession Trail. Is there camping? Lodging? Dining? Dunewood Campground, located at U.S. 12 and Broadway near Beverly Shores, is open April 1 to October 31 and has 78 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis. The restrooms have showers. There are no electrical hookups, but there is a dump station (call 219-395-1882 or visit nps.gov/indu). Alcohol is prohibited. There are no lodging facilities or restaurants within the park boundaries. Can I bring my own firewood into the park? The National Lakeshore advises visitors to use firewood from local suppliers to prevent the spread of invasive insects. There is a general store near the Dunewood Campground which sells firewood and there is another firewood seller near the campground. Federal quarantines prevent people from other states from bringing their own firewood to Indiana. Can I grill at the beach? No, but grills are provided in designated areas (or you can bring your own to those spots) at Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm, Glenwood Dunes, West Beach, Tremont Picnic Area and Lake View Picnic Area. Burn charcoal or wood only. How do I reserve an environmental education program? Teachers and group leaders can call 219-395-1885 to arrange a free ranger-led program. Do you have a Junior Ranger program? Yes. Stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center on State Road 49, just south of U.S. 20, and ask a ranger to help you select the Junior Ranger program that best fits your visit. All programs are free. Children completing the junior ranger program earn a Junior Ranger patch. Program materials are available at the Visitor Center and are downloadable at nps.gov/indu/forkids Where can I get more information? Call 219-395-1882, visit nps.gov/indu or watch for informational park signs. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 11 AROUND TOWN Planning a visit is fun, but can be daunting. So we’ve asked our experts to answer your questions about what not to miss in each of the communities beyond the beaches. Burns Harbor “I’ve always been fascinated by the steel mill I see in the town. Can you tour it?” No, but you can do a virtual tour by watching this cool video: usa.arcelormittal.com/News-and-media/ Videos/ (click on Forging ahead: exploring the steelmaking process). But the town has great fishing at Lakeland Park and along the Little Calumet River. Chesterton “I’ve heard Chesterton has a nice downtown. What’s there to do?” ARBOR BURNS H Great dining, like Lucrezia, Popolano’s and Octave Grill, or fun, drive-in food at The Port Drive-In. Shoppers will find unique stores and, on Saturdays in the summer, the open-air European Market. Hebron/Kouts “Teddy Roosevelt used to come to the Kankakee River area to hunt. What goes on these days in the towns by the river?” There’s a restaurant – Marti’s Place in Hebron – that I visit to enjoy riverfront dining. I’ll also stop for a piece of pie at Country Kitchen in downtown Hebron. I get my fishing boat or kayak onto the river at Dunn’s Bridge County Park in Kouts. Kouts has a friendly downtown with some nice places to grab a bite to eat as well. CHESTERTON Lakefront Communities (Beverly Shores, Dune Acres, Ogden Dunes, The Pines) “What do the people lucky enough to live on or near Lake Michigan do when they leave the house?” HEBRON KO U T S 12 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | COMMUNITIES Work and go to school, I think. But seriously, they say you ought to check out the iconic Beverly Shores train station, which houses the Beverly Shores Museum and Art Gallery. They also say to get pizzas from Rolling Stonebaker pizza truck and eat gourmet roadhouse food from Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill & Tavern, both in Beverly Shores. And, of course, they walk the beach along Lake Michigan and hike the sand dunes. HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Portage “What’s the best way to enjoy the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore?” BEVERL Y SHOR E S The lakeshore site with the most parking, lifeguarded beaches and great views is West Beach in Portage. Another popular lakeshore site is the handicap-accessible and fishingfriendly Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk. “Any other insider tips?” Portage is home to Bass Pro Shops, an outdoorsman’s superstore. There’s a restaurant in the store, or people can eat along the marina at nearby Latitudes Waterfront Dining. Speaking of which, people can hire a charter boat or launch their own onto Lake Michigan in Portage. And on a rainy day, hit Portage 16 IMAX. Porter “I want to experience the Indiana Dunes like a local. What do I do?” P O RTAG E A fun place that locals gather to catch some rays and play beach volleyball is Porter Beach. Great hometown hangouts include the 21-and-older Leroy’s Hot Stuff (Mexican) and Wagner’s Ribs, and the family-friendly Santiago’s (Mexican) in downtown. The downtown, by the way, is a great place to watch the trains go by. And, if you didn’t get enough water fun at the beach, hit Seven Peaks Waterpark. Valparaiso “Isn’t Valparaiso the place with the big-city quality restaurants in a small-town environment?” PORT ER Yes, the city, and especially the downtown, is home to great spots like Don Quijote (Spanish) Restaurant and farm-to-fork Valley Kitchen & Bar, as well as dessert havens like Valpo Velvet ice cream and Designer Desserts cupcakes. “Can you spend a day in Valparaiso?” You can spend more than a day. The downtown also has cool shops and a downtown park that features a splash pad in the summer, ice skating in the winter and concerts and events throughout the year. Beyond the downtown, Valparaiso is home to great attractions like Taltree Arboretum & Gardens, 49er Drive-In Theatre, Zao Island amusement center and more. VA L PA R A I S O Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 13 MUST SEE& DO B R O K E N WA G O N B I S O N F A R M INDIANA DUNES The 3 Dune Challenge Do you have what it takes to climb the three highest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park? Learn more on pages 9 and 19. 50s Fun Experience a blast from the past at the 49er Drive-In Theatre in Valparaiso, a place that has been chosen one of the top drive-ins in the nation. Continue your journey down memory lane at the Port Drive-In restaurant in Chesterton, where you can enjoy a meal brought to your car by a carhop. There are also plenty of classic car shows happening! Learn more on page 18. Bass Pro Shops This 130,000-square-foot store has everything for outdoor enthusiasts. And if you get hungry, you can grab a bite to eat at the in-store Islamorada Fish Company. Learn more on page 16. 14 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | MUST SEE & DO MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE Broken Wagon Bison Farm Get up close and personal with our country’s largest native land mammal at this family-owned bison farm. Take a wagon tour to see more than 70 bison. Afterward, purchase a variety of bison meat products and gifts. Learn more on page 16. Chesterton’s European Market Chesterton’s European Market is a French-inspired artisans and farmers market located in historic downtown Chesterton. Vendors come from all over the Midwest to create a highquality eclectic marketplace featuring handmade art, artisan pastries, freshly prepared food, farm-grown produce, jewelry, accessories, clothing, fresh soap and more. Learn more on pages 60 and 64. Hoosier Bat Company Call ahead and set up a tour. You’ll see baseball bats being made right in front of you. And don’t forget to get your very own personalized mini-bat in the gift shop. Learn more on page 16. The Indiana Dunes Enjoy the Indiana Dunes, with its magnificent beaches that stretch for miles, towering sand dunes with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, wooded hiking trails and charter boat rides on the lake. Learn more on pages 4-11, and 25. Memorial Opera House The Memorial Opera House presents live community theater performances, national musical acts and a monthly lunchtime cabaret. Learn more on page 23. HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 5 TA LT R E E R A I LWAY G A R D E N ZAO ISLAND AMUSEMENT CENTER S E V E N P E A K S WAT E R PA R K Locally-made Ice Cream For more than 65 years, Valpo Velvet ice cream shop has been making and serving the rich, creamy ice cream that people come from all around to experience. Call ahead and you can take a guided tour and watch some of the 65 to 70 different flavors being made. Piggies and Cream at the Depot also makes its own ice cream using natural ingredients, like mint from a local field for the mint chocolate ice cream. Learn more on pages 17, 48 and 54-56. Portage 16 IMAX Sit back, relax and get blown away at the only place in Northern Indiana offering the sheer coolness of IMAX on a four-and-a-half-stories-high screen. The other 15 non-IMAX screens in the complex show just about every current blockbuster. Learn more on page 22. Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland Enjoy 15 water slides, including four 70-foot free fall slides, as well as a 650,000-gallon wave pool, kids areas with splash features and waterslides, group cabanas and more. Learn more on page 17. Taltree Railway Garden Be amazed by Taltree’s half-acre model railway garden. Its wonderful waterfalls, elaborate bridges, impressive 14-foot change in elevation and its more than 3,000 tiny trees and bushes are a hit with kids and adults. Taltree also has formal gardens and trails to explore. Learn more on pages 17, 23, 31, 50 and 71. Valparaiso University Home to the renowned Chapel of the Resurrection, an inspiring place to visit or experience an event. The chapel has been named one of the 30 most beautiful college cathedrals in the world. The university also welcomes visitors to the Brauer Museum of Art, and has a full schedule of happenings such as the Jazz Fest, dramatic productions and musical events. Learn more on pages 21, 23, 62 and 66. Zao Island Amusement Center It’s an adventureland for grown-ups and kids alike: two miniature golf courses, go-carts, bumper cars, game room, batting cages, a giant slide, laser tag and even an on-site pizzeria and a fully stocked bar. Be sure to check out the Gator Glades while you’re there. It’s the only place around where you can feed live baby alligators. Learn more on page 17. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 15 FAMILY FUN INMAN’S BOWLING A N D R E C R E AT I O N FAMILY ATTRACTIONS Bass Pro Shops This 130,000-square-foot store has everything for outdoor enthusiasts, including boats, fishing gear and hunting equipment. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm; Sunday 10am – 7pm Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-787-6800 Web: basspro.com Broken Wagon Bison Farm Take a wagon tour and meet a herd of more than 70 American Bison. Afterward, purchase a variety of bison meat products and gifts. Open tours: No group or reservation needed. One-hour tours start promptly at 11am and 2pm Saturdays from June to September. Group tours of 20 or more are available by appointment. Tour fee applies. Address: 563 W. 450 North, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-3523 Web: brokenwagonbison.com 16 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | FAMILY FUN Hoosier Bat Company Hoosier Bat Company is one of the nation’s oldest bat manufacturers, and their bats have been used by everyone from kids to major league sluggers. Arrange a free tour and see baseball bats being cut, sanded and painted. And be sure to pick up a bat or other souvenir. Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Address: 312 N. 325 East, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-1006 or 800-228-3787 Web: hoosierbat.com The Illiana Garden Railway Society at Samuelson’s Nursery Visit this outdoor model train garden on Saturdays from April to October. And be sure to check their website for special events throughout the season. Hours: Saturday 10am – 4pm Address: 295 N. State Road 2, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6924 or 219-462-2708 Web: illianaroad.com Inman’s Bowling and Recreation Experience 32 lanes of bowling, video game arcade with ticket redemption, roller skating rink, go-karts, 18-hole miniature golf, paddleboat soakers, billiards, air hockey, beanbags, bounce houses, saloon, pizza, monthly live pro wrestling, events rooms. Hours: Monday, Tuesday & Thursday noon – 11pm; Wednesday, Friday & Saturday noon – midnight; Sunday 11am – 10pm Address: 3201 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1300 Web: inmansvalpo.com Imagine Beads Kids and adults will enjoy picking out beads and turning them into a necklace, bracelet or other work of art. Hours: Monday, Wednesday 10am – 6pm; Tuesday, Thursday – Friday 10am – 5pm; Saturday 10am – 4pm Address: 103 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30), Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-299-2270 Web: imaginebeading.com HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM King Hobbies and Raceway This shop sells and services radio-controlled vehicles and aircraft. For a fee, drive your radiocontrolled vehicle around their indoor and outdoor tracks. Hours: See website for track and shop hours. Address: 413 E. Archer Way, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-299-2088 Web: kinghobbiesandraceway.com Midwest Sundowners Attend an open-to-the-public radio-controlled aircraft show or arrange to control an airplane yourself at this airfield. Hours: See website for hours and events. Address: County Road 650 West, just north of County Road 450 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Web: midwestsundowners.com Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland Enjoy 15 water slides, a 650,000-gallon wave pool, kids areas and more. Hours: Memorial Day weekend – Labor Day weekend, Monday – Saturday 11am-8pm Address: 1275 Waverly Rd., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-250-2490 Web: sevenpeaks.com/duneland Taltree Railway Garden An elaborate model railway garden that tells the story of America’s railroads. There’s also a 1920s-style railroad depot with a gift shop. Admission fees apply. Railway Garden Hours: April – Oct: 10am – 7pm daily Arboretum hours: April – Oct: 8am – 7pm daily Nov. – March: 10am – 4pm daily Address: 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Valpo Velvet ice cream has been made the same delicious way for generations. Call ahead for a tour. Hours: Monday – Saturday 11am – 10pm; Sunday 1 – 9pm Address: 55-57 W. Monroe St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4141 Web: valpovelvet.com Zao Island Amusement Center Two miniature golf courses, go-carts, bumper cars, game room, batting cages, a giant slide and laser tag. There’s even an on-site pizzeria and bar if you get hungry or just need a break from the action. Be sure to check out the Gator Glades while you’re there. It’s the only place in the entire Midwest where you can feed live baby alligators. Hours: Sunday – Thursday 10am – 10pm; Friday – Saturday 10am – 1pm Address: 1050 Horseprairie Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-1194 Web: zaoisland.net GEAR UP Camp Stop General Store This general store located in the heart of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore offers bicycle rentals. The store also rents paddleboards and sells camp supplies, food, wood, propane, souvenirs and more. Food truck onsite daily. Hours: Monday – Sunday 9am – 9pm Address: 2 W. Dunes Highway (U.S. 12), Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-878-1382 Web: Find us on Facebook Chesterton Bicycle Station This full-service bike shop offers bicycle rentals. They also sell a wide variety of bicycles, helmets, bicycle parts, clothing and more. They provide quality service if the need arises. Hours: Monday – Friday 10am – 6pm; Saturday 10am – 4pm Address: 116 S. 4th St., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219 -9 26-1112 CMS Marine Boat Rentals Make a reservation to rent a powerboat. Hours: Call for rentals Address: Portage Public Marina, 1200 Marina Way at State Road 249 and U.S. 12, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-508-3195 Diver’s Lair SLAND CENTER ZAO I T EMEN AMUS Diver’s Lair is your one-stop shop for scuba diving training, equipment, equipment repair and local or exotic travel. Hours: Tuesday – Friday 12 – 6pm; Saturday 10am – 4pm Address: 4405 N. Calumet Ave., Suite A, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3483 Web: diverslair.com Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 17 DRIVE-IN FUN 49er Drive-in Theatre The only remaining one of its kind in the region, the 49er shows first-run movies. Operating season: Generally open weekends during April, May, Sept. and Oct. Open 7 days a week from Memorial Day weekend until school starts (usually 3rd week in Aug). Call for movies/show times Hours: Show starts at dusk; box office opens 60-90 minutes prior Address: 675 N. Calumet Ave., CERAMICS Ceramix 101 This paint-your-own ceramics studio is fun for families or parties. Hours: Tuesday, Saturday Noon – 6pm Wednesday – Friday Noon – 8pm (hours may vary) Address: 908 Roosevelt Rd., Suite C, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-6536 Web: Find us on Facebook Imaginations Unlimited Paint ceramics, take classes, and buy supplies and gifts. Hours: Monday Noon – 5pm, 7 – 10pm Wednesday – Friday 10am – 4pm Saturday (Oct. 1 – May 1 only) 9am – noon Address: 612 Roosevelt Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4647 CRUISE-INS Best Bike Nite on the Planet Food and drink specials, outdoor patio, live music, different themes each week, bikes and cars. Hours: May – October: Every Wednesday (weather permitting) 5pm – midnight Address: Quaker Steak and Lube, 6245 Ameriplex Dr., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-9464 Web: quakersteakandlube.com 18 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | FAMILY FUN Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6122 Web: 49erdrivein.com Port Drive-in Restaurant Enjoy a meal brought to your car by carhops or dine inside. Open during the summer. Address: 419 N. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3500 Web: theportdrivein.net 49ER D RIVE-I N THEA TR E Chesterton Cruise Night Cars of all kinds — vintage, sporty, muscle and foreign. A night of true family fun! Hours: May – October: Last Saturday of every month 5 – 9:30pm Address: Thomas Centennial Park, Calumet Road and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Web: indianadunes.com/events Southpoint Cruise-In Live music, beer garden, food, cars and bikes. Hours: May – September: Friday 6 – 9pm Address: Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso, 1151 W. U.S. 30, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-476-0944 Web: hdvalpo.com Portage Cruise-In Come to Woodland Park every Tuesday from June to early September for a classic car cruisein. The park will also have a concert in the park on each cruise-in night. Hours: June to early September: Tuesdays 6 – 8pm Address: Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com/ programs-community-events Suzy’s Diner Cruise Night Enjoy cool cars, music and a special discount at the diner. Hours: April – October: Wednesdays (weather permitting) 4–8pm Wednesdays 4 – 8pm Address: 407 S. Main St., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-3463 Web: facebook.com/suzys.diner.1 Pav’s Summer Car Nites (trucks & bikes, too) A wide variety of rides, good food and music can be found at this cruise-in. Hours: April – August: Tuesday nights 5pm – close Address: Pav’s Restaurant, 642 N. Main St., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-7287 Web: facebook.com/PavsHebron Central Park Plaza Address: 70 Lafayette St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: centralparkplazavalpo.com SPLASH PADS Founders Square Park Address: Central Avenue and PFC Adam Harting Way/PFC Steven Sirko Way, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com GET READY TO CONQUER FAQ : HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM What is The 3 Dune Challenge? A test to see if you can climb the three highest sand dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park as part of a 1.5-mile course. By Ken Kosky Are you ready for a run or hike that will leave your legs screaming, sweat rolling down your face and your mind telling you that you should turn back? If so, The 3 Dune Challenge is for you. To complete The 3 Dune Challenge, a person must tackle a 1.5-mile course at Indiana Dunes State Park, climbing Mount Jackson (elevation 176 feet), Mount Holden (184 feet), and Mount Tom (192 feet). These are the three highest dunes at the park. Parts of the trail feature 40-degree slopes, making each step that much more challenging. On the sandy vertical climbs, I often took two steps forward and slid one step back. I found the 3 Dune Challenge to be tough, but I was rewarded with Lake Michigan views and, hey, not everybody can say they finished it. To learn more about The 3 Dune Challenge, visit www.IndianaDunes.com/3dc. Where is The 3 Dune Challenge? It’s at Indiana Dunes State Park, 1600 North 25 East, Chesterton, IN. The challenge starts at the park’s Nature Center. Finishers can pick up free stickers and can purchase commemorative shirts at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, located about a mile south of the state park at 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304. When is The 3 Dune Challenge? It can be done any day of the week. Is it guided, or do I do it on my own? Indiana Dunes State Park occasionally has guided hikes, but it is primarily to be done on one’s own schedule and at one’s own pace. The trail is marked with signs to guide users. Is there a cost? There is a fee of $7 per car (Indiana resident) or $12 per car (out of state) to enter the park. Once inside, there are no fees for parking or to do the challenge. How difficult is it? People of all ages — from children to seniors — have completed The 3 Dune Challenge. However, others have had to turn back. Be realistic about your ability. If you get tired, stop for a break or take a shortcut back to the starting point. There are plenty of easier trails to enjoy. Share your experience! Use #3Dune Challenge and it will appear at indianadunes.com/3dc MOUNT JACKSON HISTORY & CULTURE PORTER COUNTY MUSEUM HISTORIC TOURS Century of Progress Homes Originally constructed for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, these homes were built to show modern architectural design, experimental materials and new technologies like air conditioning and dishwashers. Drive or walk past them yearround or get a look inside during the annual tour in October. Hours: Annual tour is generally third weekend in October, with tickets on sale second Monday in September. See website for details. Address: Lake Front Drive, between Dunbar and Derby avenues Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu/historyculture/ centuryofprogress.htm Chaos Haunted & Historical Tours Join Mike McDowell and his crew on a historical tour of downtown Valparaiso or a hair-raising tour of sites of terror and tragedy in Indiana Dunes Country. Walking tours, bus tours, haunted overnights and special events offered. Hours: Scheduled tours only. Visit website or call for more information Phone: 219-714-3761 Web: chaostrips.com Chesterton and Porter Walking Tours Visit Westchester Township History Museum/The Brown Mansion to pick up walking tour guides for Chesterton and Porter. Among the historic structures you can walk past in Chesterton is an all-steel Lustron home. The museum also offers an excellent guide to area museums. Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 1 – 5pm; walking can be done at your leisure Address: 700 W. Porter Ave., Chesterton, IN 46304 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum 20 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | HISTORY & CULTURE Downtown Valparaiso Walking Tours Learn the architectural history of Valparaiso on one of eight walking tours. See elegant houses on Washington Street and marvel at the impressive courthouse square. Visit the website to print self-guided tour brochures. Hours: Do a self-guided tour at your leisure or watch for guided tour schedule Phone: 219-462-1161 Web: ci.valparaiso.in.us/ index.aspx?NID=224 Wolf Mansion Call to schedule a tour of this private residence, which is on the National Historic Register. The 7,800-square-foot mansion was built in 1875 by Josephus Wolf. Hours: Tours by reservation only Address: 453 W. 700 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-364-8102 HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM MUSEUMS Alton Goin Museum This museum houses cultural artifacts from the Portage region. Nearby are the historic Trager farmhouse and outbuildings. Hours: April – Nov: Saturday – Sunday 1 – 4pm; Friday by appointment (farmhouse open Saturday only); special Christmas hours Address: 5250 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8349 during museum hours or 219-762-1675 Web: inpchs.com Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm Bailly Homestead is named for Joseph Bailly, the first known nonnative region resident, who set up a fur trading post here in 1822. The restored Chellberg farm looks much as it did in the late 1800s. The sites are a short hike from one another. Hours: Homes open during programs and open houses only. Call or visit website for more information Address: Mineral Springs Road between U.S. 20 and U.S. 12, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Hour Glass House Museum The museum focuses on the history of Ogden Dunes and the art of local artists, including materials about Dale Messick, Dorothy Buell, the 1920s ski jump and a shipwreck. Hours: 3rd Sunday of the month 4 – 5:30pm; tours available by appointment through website Address: 8 Lupine Ln., Ogden Dunes, IN 46368 Phone: Please contact through website Web: odhistory.org MUSEUM A LTO N G O I N Porter County Museum Once the sheriff’s residence and local jail, the Porter County Museum is now home to Northern Indiana’s largest collection of area history and treasures. Exhibits are displayed throughout the building and change often. Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 9am – 5pm Address: 153 S. Franklin St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3595 Web: pocomuse.org Stagecoach Inn & Panhandle Depot The Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot are Hebron Historical Society museums. The Stagecoach Inn, built in 1849, features period items and community artifacts. The Panhandle Depot houses railroad memorabilia and an exhibit on military service. Hours: June – September: 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month Noon – 3pm or by appointment. Open by appointment only the rest of the year Address: 127 N. Main St., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-3192 The Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery Housed in the iconic Beverly Shores train station, this museum tells the community’s history and has an ever-rotating display of art in its gallery, as well as a gift shop. Hours: May – October: Friday – Sunday 11am – 3pm (reception 5 – 7pm second Friday of each month May to October); 4th of July to Labor Day Monday 11am – 3pm Address: 525 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-250-2290 PROGRESS CENTURY OF HOMES Westchester Township History Museum/The Brown Mansion This free museum offers tours of the restored 1885 home of a wealthy family, public programs, an exhibit of Indiana Dunes and community history and a gift shop. Hours: Wednesday – Sunday 1 – 5pm or by appointment Address: 700 W. Porter Ave., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9715 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum Valparaiso Fire Museum The museum offers a fascinating view of fire fighting from the age of leather buckets to the modern era of gasoline fire trucks. Guided tours of the museum and adjoining Task Force Tips fire suppression equipment company available. Call to reserve a group tour. Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 4pm (curator on site Tuesday – Wednesday) Address: 3701 Innovation Way, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6161 Web: tft.com Valparaiso University Brauer Museum of Art Browse seven galleries filled with selections from the museum’s permanent collection of more than 3,500 pieces, including the largest collection of Junius R. Sloan paintings, as well as world religious art and American art. Hours: Tuesday, Thursday – Friday 10am – 5pm; Wednesday 10am – 8:30pm; Saturday – Sunday Noon – 5pm Address: Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-5365 Web: valpo.edu/artmuseum EUM OF ART BRAUER MUS ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT MEMORIAL OPERA HOUSE MOVIE THEATERS 49er Drive-In Theatre Enjoy a blast from the past at this drive-in theatre, which was chosen one of the best in the nation. Get new-release movies and a concession stand with snacks and meals. Open weekends in April, May, September and October. Open every night Memorial Day weekend to third week in August. Call for movies/show times. Hours: Show starts at dusk; box office opens 60 – 90 minutes prior Address: 675 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6122 Web: 49erdrivein.com Cinemark 12 at Valparaiso Catch the latest movies on one of the 12 screens and grab your favorite treat from the concession stand. Address: 700 Porters Vale Blvd. (at State Road 49 and State Road 2), Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-0260 Web: cinemark.com 22 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Portage 16 IMAX Get blown away at the only place in Northern Indiana offering the coolness of IMAX on a four-anda-half-stories-high screen. The 15 other screens show just about all the other new movies. Address: 6550 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-7469 Web: gqti.com PICTURE PERFECT Valparaiso University Chapel: Chosen one of world’s most beautiful college cathedrals, be sure to get a photo of it if you’re in the area then tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond. Valparaiso University, 1600 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM THEATERS & LIVE PERFORMANCES 4th Street Theater At this award-winning community theater, see blockbuster musicals and more. Call or check website for schedule. Address: 125 N. 4th St., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-7875 Web: 4thstreetncca.org Chicago Street Theatre This intimate, award-winning venue offers comedies, dramas, musicals and family productions. Call or check website for schedule. Address: 154 W. Chicago St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-1636 Web: chicagostreet.org Concert Association of Valparaiso Providing the community with quality entertainment at affordable prices. Concerts: Check website for details. Address: Valparaiso High School, 2727 N. Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-5305 Web: valpoconcerts.com Front Porch Music The venue features a coffeehouse that brings in great musical acts and hosts an open stage night. Also find musical instruments, supplies for sale and a repair shop. Retail Hours: Monday –Friday 10am – 8pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm Open Stages: Thursday 7:30pm – close (sign-up starts at 7pm) Concerts: Check website for details Address: 505 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4700 Web: frontporchmusic.com Memorial Opera House Memorial Opera House presents live Broadway musicals and plays, national music acts, live comedy and a once-a-month cabaret series. Call or check website for schedule. Address: 104 Indiana Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-548-9137 Web: memorialoperahouse.com SUMMER CONCERTS PORTAGE Hours: Fridays 7pm June through mid – August Address: Thomas Centennial Park, Broadway and Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 (if it rains, event moves indoors to nearby Library Service Center, 100 W. Indiana Ave.) Phone: 219-926-7696 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum/ Hours: 6pm Tuesdays June to early September Address: Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-5025 and 219-762-3300 Web: portagemusic.com or inportageparks.com/programscommunity-events/ Portage Summer Music in the Park Series VALPARAISO Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Under the Stars concert series Visit indianadunes.com/events for the latest events Valparaiso Theatrical Company This traveling theatrical group raises money for a variety of charities. Call or check website for schedule. Address: Various venues, Valparaiso, IN Phone: 219-242-8005 Web: valparaisotheatricalcompany.org Valparaiso University Center for the Arts See live theater, music and dance. The center is also home to the Brauer Museum of Art. Call or see website for schedule. Address: 1709 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-6950 Web: valpo.edu/vuca Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy a summer concert in Indiana Dunes Country. CHESTERTON Chesterton Bandstand Concert and Family Film Series Portage Township Live Entertainment Association Bringing professional music, dancers, acrobats, magicians and more to the community. Events: Check website for details. Address: Portage High School East, 6450 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-5025 Web: portagemusic.com Hours: Thursdays June to September. Check website. Address: 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Summer Rhapsody Music Festival Hours: Select days and times. Check website for schedule. Address: Central Park, 68 Lafayette St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-8332 Web: valparaisoevents.com Zao Island Summer Concert Series Hours: Select days and times. Check website. Address: 1050 Horseprairie Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1194 Web: zaoisland.net Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 23 SPORTS & RECREATION LAKE MICHIGAN KAYAKING Dunn’s Bridge County Park This is a great spot to get onto the Kankakee River and see nature. Paddling against the current is a great workout. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 500 East and the Kankakee River, Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Indiana Dunes State Park Toss your kayak in the water on the west end of the park and get paddling to see mile after mile of majestic dunes from the vantage point of the water. Admission fee applies. Hours: 7am – 11pm Address: 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton (State Road 49, north of U.S. 12) Phone: 219-926-1952 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Valparaiso Chain of Lakes Check out Rogers-Lakewood Park (admission fee applies) or go north and follow the signs to the free public access site to enjoy the lakes’ calming beauty. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.com Public access site: Go north on Meridian Road to 600 North and follow the signs. FISHING Dunn’s Bridge County Park (Kankakee River) Address: South County Road 500 East, Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Fish caught: Northern pike, catfish, walleye, bass and bluegill 24 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SPORTS & RECREATION Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (Lake Michigan) Address: 6150 U.S. 12, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Fish caught: Salmon, trout, bass, perch, carp, catfish and sheephead Rogers-Lakewood Park (small lakes) Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Fish caught: Northern pike, bass, bluegill, crappie, bullhead, catfish and walleye HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM BOATING Bass Pro Shops Shop ‘til you drop at this 130,000-square-foot wonderland. Inside, you’ll find a marina, indoor waterfalls, intricate dioramas and every piece of equipment an outdoor enthusiast could ever want or need. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm; Sunday 10am – 7pm Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-787-6800 Web: basspro.com CMS Marine Boat Rentals On a hot summer day, nothing beats boating on Lake Michigan. Call ahead and arrange to rent a U.S. Coast Guard-equipped powerboat. Boat rental address: Portage Public Marina, 1200 Marina Way at State Road 249 and U.S. 12, Portage, IN 46368 Business address: 1027 N. State Road 149, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-508-3195 Web: facebook.com/CmsMarine Doyne’s Marine Offers boat storage, docks and a launch ramp. Address: 1340 N. Crisman Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-7622 Web: doynesmarine.com Marina Shores at Dune Harbor Seasonal and transient slips available, as well as gas and diesel, ice, snacks, pop and water. Hours: Monday – Thursday 8am – 4:30pm; Friday – Sunday 8am – 6pm Address: 5976 Dune Harbor Dr., Portage, IN 46368 (across from Portage-Ogden Dunes South Shore train station) Phone: 219-762-5700 Web: marinashoresin.com Miller’s Marine Center Provides sales, service and storage. Address: 1305 State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8767 Web: mwmarina.com Miller’s Westerman’s Marina There’s a slip waiting with your name on it at this family-owned marina. Located on Burns Waterway, with direct access to Lake Michigan, this marina provides boat slips, sales, service, storage and transport. Address: 1330 N. Crisman Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8767 Web: mwmarina.com Portage Public Marina This marina offers an affordable public boat launch and is a great spot to bring a fishing pole to catch a big one. Hours: April–Oct: 7am – 7pm daily Off-season: 8am – 4pm daily Address: 1200 Marina Way at State Road 249 and U.S. 12, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-763-6833 Web: ci.portage.in.us/ department/?fDD=4-0 Fee: $10 to launch Boat slips available CHARTER BOATING Hook up with one of our charter boat captains and head out on Lake Michigan for some great fishing or sightseeing. Brother Nature Fishing Adventures Phone: 877-725-6665 Web: brother-nature.com Captain Ralph Steiger Charters Phone: 219-688-3593 Web: captainsteiger.com Grab Your Fly Charters 708-403-1221 or 630-886-1964 Web: grabyourflycharters.com Pray Sportfishing Charters Phone: 219-314-0060 Rainmaker Charters Phone: 219-762-9336 or 800-762-9336 Web: lakemichigansportfishing.com Schellfish Sportfishing Charters Phone: 708-672-4454 or 708-372-8201 Web: schellfishcharters.com Triplecatch Charters Phone: 219-963-9204 or 219-588-5929 Web: amflyfishing.com Wild Dog Tackle & Good Guyde Service Phone: 847-420-3046 Web: wilddogguide.com Indiana Dunes Country is home to great fishing. Enjoy a oneof-a-kind fishing experience on Lake Michigan, try one of our smaller lakes or fish along one of the rivers that meander through the region. For more information, visit indianadunes.com/fishing World-class fishing year-round! Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 25 CALUMET TRAIL HIKING & BIKING Calumet Trail This crushed travel trail is adjacent to the Indiana Dunes and the South Shore Line tracks. Address: Access points include U.S. 12 and Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Glenwood Dune Trail Natural wooded trail, picnic tables and modern restrooms. Bring your horse and ride March 16 – Dec. 14. Address: 1475 North Brummitt Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Tolleston Dunes Hike along black oak savanna, dunes and marsh remnants. Address: 5800 Dunes Hwy., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Indiana Dunes State Park Seven natural trails for people of varying levels of ability. Look for ranger-led programming and seasonal events. Admission fee. Address: 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1952 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Outback Trail Mountain bikers can get their kicks on the Outback Trail at Imagination Glen Park, a professional-level, 10mile length of tight and twisting turns around logs, roots and jumps. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 2275 McCool Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: outbacktrail.org Prairie-Duneland Trail Twelve-foot wide paved trail with many access points and water fountains. Inline skates welcome. Address: Access points include Countryside Park, 5250 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46304 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com 26 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SPORTS & RECREATION GLE Steel Wheels BMX Track This outdoor track, which hosts ABA-sanctioned races, is open to the public Tuesday and Friday nights. Hours: Track open May – Sept. Tuesday and Friday 6 – 9pm Address: State Road 149, ¾ miles south of U.S. 20, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-406-9833 Web: steelwheelsbmx.com West Beach Trails Three trails offer different hiking experiences. Summer admission fee. Address: 376 N. County Line Rd., Gary, IN (Gary address, but property is in Portage, IN) Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu E D DUN NWOO TRAIL HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM THE BRAS SIE GOLF CL UB GOLFING The Brassie Golf Club An 18-hole championship golf course designed by architect Jim Fazio, and a snack bar and golf shop. Hours: Monday – Sunday 7am – 8pm (may vary) Address: 1110 Pearson Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1192 Web: thebrassie.com Central Park Lighted Driving Range This driving range open daily. Address: 5799 Central Ave., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-4653 The Course at Aberdeen Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, this 72-par course received a 5-star rating from Chicagoland Golf. Hours: 6am – 6pm Address: 245 Tower Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-5050 Web: golfataberdeen.com ASK A LOCAL Creekside Golf Course & Training Center Enjoy 12 holes of golf, a driving range, and indoor golf simulators. Hours: Monday – Friday 8am – 9pm; Saturday – Sunday 7am – 9pm Address: 2355 Clifford Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-531-7888 Web: valparaisogolf.com Duck Creek Golf Course The back nine of this 18-hole course kicks up the challenge a notch. Hours: Monday – Friday 7am – 6pm Saturday – Sunday 6:30am – 6pm Address: 636 N. 700 West, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-5870 Web: duckcreekgolfcourse.com Forest Park Golf Course This 18-hole course was named one of the “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest. Hours: June – Aug: Monday – Friday 6:30am – dusk; Saturday – Sunday 6am – dusk; opens 30 minutes earlier in May Address: 1155 Sheffield Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-531-7888 Web: valparaisogolf.com Mink Lake Golf Course This 9-hole walking-only course features hills and a lake. Hours: Monday – Sunday Dawn – dusk Address: 636 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-2585 Rio’s Indoor Golf Offering golf simulators, instruction and a retail shop. Hours: Monday – Sunday 8am – 8pm Oct. – June 1 Closed in the summer Address: 1555 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-465-5200 Web: Find us on Facebook Robbinhurst Golf Club & Driving Range In addition to an 18-hole course and a driving range, find club rentals, lessons, repairs and a pro shop. Hours: Summer: Monday – Sunday 6:30am – 7pm Spring: Monday – Sunday 7:30am – 6pm Address: 383 W. 875 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-762-9711 Web: robbinhurst.com Where is the best view in Indiana Dunes Country? Beth Rutherford of Beverly Shores says, “Top of the stairs at the West Beach Succession Trail looking over the beautiful stands of pines. I bet you would need to drive to upper Michigan before you’d see such a view. The view is as pretty in the winter as it is in summer.” Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 27 Flounder Skate Park at Rogers-Lakewood Park Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Portage Skate Park at Woodland Park Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 2100 N. Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com INMAN’S BO WLING AND R E C R E AT I O N SPORTING Blastcamp Paintball Built on a former Army base with 28 acres of bunkers, trenches and towers, this paintball range has open play on weekends, and groups can reserve it during the week. Hours: Monday – Friday by appointment; Saturday – Sunday 9am – 4pm Address: 563 W. 600 North, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-947-7733 Web: blastcamp.com Blythe’s Sport Shop Shooting Range Unleash your inner sharpshooter at this indoor gun range. Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 8pm; Saturday 9am – 5:30pm; Sunday Noon – 5pm Address: 2810 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-476-0026 Web: blythesgungear.com The Courts of NWI Basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor sand volleyball and batting cages. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 9pm; Sunday 1 – 9pm Address: 127 E. U.S. 6, Valparaiso, IN 46838 Phone: 219-465-1111 Web: thecourtsofnwi.com DISC GOLF Countryside Park Disc Golf Course Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: Countryside Park, 5250 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com Hawthorne Park Disc Golf Course Address: 500 Ackerman Dr., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-1042 Web: townofporter.com Rogers-Lakewood Park Disc Golf Course Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org SKATEBOARD PARKS Chesterton’s Skate Park Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 108 S. 15th St., Chesterton, IN 46304 (off Prairie-Duneland Trail) Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org 28 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SPORTS & RECREATION BOWLING, BILLIARDS & SKATING Hebron Lanes Bowling, pizza and a bar. Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 11am – 5:30pm; Wednesday 11am – 9pm; Fri. 11am – 5:30pm (with some lanes open after 5:30); Saturday 1 – 11pm; Sunday Noon – 8pm Address: 725 State Road 2, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-7271 Web: facebook.com/HebronLanes Inman’s Bowling and Recreation Bowling, miniature golf, go-carts, arcade, roller skating, billiards, saloon, pizza and more. Hours: Monday, Tuesday and Thursday noon – 11pm; Wednesday, Friday and Saturday noon – midnight; Sunday 11am – 10pm; Wednesday – Saturday 11am – midnight; Sunday 11am – 10pm Address: 3201 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1300 Web: inmansvalpo.com R-Way Skate Center A place for roller skating fun. Hours: Friday – Sunday nights plus weekend afternoons (hours vary, visit Facebook or call to confirm) Address: 3600 Scottsdale Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-759-2556 Find us on Facebook HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM SWIMMING Lakeland Park This park is one of the only places in the area where you can paddle away beneath the careful supervision of lifeguards. Rent row boats and paddle boats, take a stroll along the quarter-mile walking trail, play horseshoes or sand volleyball, burn off some energy on the playground or join in a game of softball, basketball or soccer. Hours: 9am – 9pm Address: 253 Haglund Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-787-8126 Web: burnsharbor.org Lake Michigan Most of Indiana Dunes Country’s best places to swim are at Indiana Dunes State Park and these Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore sites: West Beach, Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, Porter Beach, Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach and Central Avenue. Both Indiana Dunes State Park and West Beach have lifeguarded swimming beaches in the summer, and they are among the beach access points with the most parking. Learn more on pages 6 – 7. D U N E L A N D FA M I LY Y M C A Pleasant Township Pool Swim for the day at this outdoor pool, open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Hours: 12:30 – 8pm Address: 812 W. Sunset Dr., Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-766-3794 (during season) 219-766-3312 (off-season) Duneland Family YMCA This outdoor pool is open from June to August, and people can purchase a day pass. Hours: Monday – Friday 5:30am – 9pm; Saturday 7am – 5pm; Sunday noon – 5pm (open swim Monday – Saturday 10am – 5pm; Sunday noon – 5pm) Address: 215 Roosevelt St., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4204 Web: dunelandymca.org Valparaiso Family YMCA Enjoy this YMCA’s indoor swimming for the day. Hours: Monday – Friday 5am – 10pm; Saturday 7am – 6pm; Sunday 12:30 – 6pm Address: 1201 Cumberland Crossing Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-4185 Web: valpoymca.org PICTURE PERFECT Historic Clock in downtown Chesterton: Snap a photo of the old clock, the original way to timestamp a photo. Then share your experience back in time with @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond. Thomas Centennial Park, 2nd and Broadway, Chesterton, IN. Share your favorite swim spots with @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond H AW T H O R N E PA R K COMMUNITY PARKS & GARDENS Alyea Park Tennis and basketball courts, shelter. Address: Church and Adams Streets, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-4641 Web: visithebron.org Brincka Cross Gardens Once a private residence, this architecturally unique home and garden include a wide variety of trees and plants — some that don’t grow anywhere else. Hours: Gardens dawn – dusk; house by appt. only Address: 427 Furness Rd., Pine Township, IN 46360 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Butterfly Meadows at Foundation Meadows Park Playground with slides of all sizes. Address: 3210 Campbell St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Chesterton Park/ Friendship Land Park Baseball field, tennis and basketball courts, playgrounds, restrooms, shelter. Address: 5th Street, between Morgan Avenue and Porter Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chesteronin.org Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve A relaxing place to walk or picnic, with water features, trails and a shelter. Address: State Road 49 and Voyage Boulevard, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1842 Web: coffeecreekwc.org Countryside Park This park is home to Alton Goin Museum, disc golf course, fishing pond, trails, playground, shelter, sledding hill in winter. Address: 5250 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-167 Web: inportageparks.com Drazer Park Tennis courts, playground, sports field, shelter. Address: West end of Daumer Road, Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-766-3312 Web: koutsindiana.org 30 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SPORTS & RECREATION Fairgrounds Park Jogging track with exercise stations. Address: 704 McCord Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Founders Square Park This park features a splash pad, events and more. Address: Central Avenue and PFC Adam Harting Way/PFC Steven Sirko Way, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com Hawthorne Park Playground, community center, shelters, volleyball, basketball, baseball. Address: 500 Ackerman Dr., (off Franklin St.), Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-1042 Web: townofporter.com Imagination Glen Park Playground, soccer, softball and Outback Trail, a 10-mile mountain biking trail. Address: 2275 McCool Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Lakeland Park Lakeland has lifeguard-supervised swimming, as well as fishing and rentals of rowboats and paddleboats. There’s also a walking path around the lake, horseshoes, sand volleyball, basketball, playgrounds and sports fields. Entrance fee. Hours: 9am – 9pm Address: 1200 Lakeland Park Dr., Burns Harbor, IN 46304 Phone: 219-787-8126 Web: burnsharborpark.org Ogden Botanical Gardens Serenity abounds in this artistic delight of brick pathways, rose gardens and other plantings. There’s also a gazebo and a Japanese garden with a koi pond. Address: 451 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Rogers-Lakewood Park A disc golf course, skate park, trails, rowboat and paddleboat rentals, shelters, playground and sledding in the winter. Entrance fee. Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Sunset Hill Farm County Park Trails, picnic and play areas, amphitheater, events. Address: 775 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Valplayso Park Giant playground. Restrooms and picnic areas available. Address: 1400 Glendale Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Enjoy miles of walking trails and see woods, gardens, ponds and prairies. Taltree also features a large model railway garden and hosts events year-round. Entrance fee. Address: 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Valparaiso’s Central Park Plaza Farmers market, concerts and events, splash pad, Orville Redenbacher statue and, in the winter, ice skating. Address: 70 Lafayette St. (Lincolnway and Lafayette Street), Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: centralparkplazavalpo.com Thomas Centennial Park and Gazebo Gazebo, picnic tables, events. Address: Calumet Road and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org Woodland Park Skate park, playground, walking areas, dog park, community center. Address: 2100 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com 49er Drive-In Theatre Brassie Golf Club The Brassie Golf Club is a semi-private 18-hole championship facility open to the public that is considered by many to be one of the best golfing values in Northwest Indiana. Featuring gently rolling terrain, strategic bunkering, wide fairways and tall fescue rough areas, The Brassie has a very distinctive links style that offers a unique golf experience. Address: 1110 Pearson Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1192 Web: thebrassie.com Enjoy all the neato aspects of a 1950s drive-in merged with modern-day convenience. For the price of one ticket, you get a kids movie and a familyfriendly grown-up film. Unlike other drive-ins, many of the movies are just premiering in “regular” theatres. Come hungry, because you won’t want to miss the concession stand. Pick from Junior Mints to mini corn dogs to ice cream to hamburgers. They’ve even got mosquito repellent and wipes to clean your windshield. The 49er Driver-In Theatre is Northwest Indiana’s only drive-in theater and retains its original look and classic design. Address: 675 N. Calumet Ave. (Old S.R. 49) Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6122 Web : 49erdrivein.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT WHERE TO STAY 32 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | WHERE TO STAY S O N G B I R D P R A I R I E I N N A N D S PA AT HOME IN THE WOODS 898 N. 350 East Chesterton 219-728-1325 athomeinthewoodsbb.com BEST WESTERN INDIAN OAK 558 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton 219-926-2200 indianoak.com COMFORT INN & SUITES 1800 W. U.S. 20 Porter 219-787-1400 choicehotels.com DUNES VACATION RENTAL 4942 W. Dunes Hwy. Beverly Shores 312-933-3637 vrbo.com/295696 DUNESWALK INN 1491 N. Furnleigh Ln. Chesterton 219-728-6393 duneswalkinn.com DUNEWOOD CAMPGROUND (National Park Service) U.S. 12 & Broadway Beverly Shores 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu ECONO LODGE 713 Plaza Dr. Chesterton 219-929-4416 choicehotels.com HILTON GARDEN INN 501 Gateway Blvd. Chesterton 219-983-9500 chesterton.hgi.com INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK CAMPGROUND (Department of Natural Resources) 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton (866) 622-6746 camp.in.gov INSPIRATION WOOD COTTAGE INN & CONFERENCE CENTER 1199 N. 650 East Westville 219-983-9922 inspirationwood.com QUALITY INN 418 Council Dr. Chesterton 219-929-5549 qualityinn.com RILEY’S RAILHOUSE 123 N. 4th St. Chesterton 219-395-9999 rileysrailhouse.com SANDCREEK CAMPGROUND (Independently owned) 1000 N. 350 East Chesterton 219-926-7482 or 219-331-9805 smsccg.com SPRING HOUSE INN 303 N. Mineral Springs Rd. Porter 219-929-4600 springhouseinn.com WATERBIRD LAKESIDE INN 556 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton 888-957-3529 waterbirdinn.com Y N Key Accessible OP Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) 16 High Speed Internet (Y) Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) $$ Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) # Rooms/Campsites AL AND SALLY’S MOTEL 3221 W. Dunes Hwy. Michigan City (Pines) 219-872-9131 219-872-9132 Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Duneland Communities HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 3 OP FB Y N $$ 62 IP FB Y N $$ 70 IP FB Y N $$$ 1 Y PN $$$ 5 Y N $ 78 P $$ 41 Y PN $$$ 120 IP Y N P N $ 140 $$$ 7 $$ $$$ Y 49 CB 2 FB Y N Hotels/Motels Campgrounds Cottages/Homes ASK A LOCAL $$$ CB Bed & Breakfast Y N Y PN $ 150 OP $$ 50 IP CB Y N $$ 40 IP CB Y PN Any favorite hotels? Rafi Wilkinson of Beverly Shores says, “Hilton Garden Inn. Every time we recommend it to someone, they tell us they loved it.” Affordable Suites of America The Affordable Suites America is an all-suite hotel providing all the comforts and amenities that both longterm and nightly guests value most. Amenities include: • Spacious 550-squarefoot suites • Separate bedroom/ living room areas • Two queen bed or king suites • Pullout couch in every suite • Individually controlled climate systems • • • • • Fully equipped kitchen Full bath with bathtub Free Wi-Fi Expanded cable with HBO Free local and long distance phone Let their friendly staff help you feel right at home at the Affordable Suites America! Address: 1550 Olmstead Dr., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-734-6111 Web: affordablesuites.com/affordable-suites-portage-in ADVERTISEMENT DAYS INN 6161 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-762-2136 daysinn.com DOLLAR INN 6142 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-763-6601 HAMPTON INN 6353 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-764-1919 hamptoninn.com HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 2323 Willowcreek Rd. Portage 219-762-7777 hiexpress.com SUPER 8 MOTEL 6118 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-762-8857 super8.com TRAVEL INN 6101 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-841-9928 or 219-254-2934 WOODLAND VILLAGE RV LOTS (Within mobile home park) 5757 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-762-6578 wvmhp.com YOGI BEAR’S JELLYSTONE CAMP RESORT (Cabins and campsites) 5300 Old Porter Rd. Portage 219-762-7758 campjellystone-portage.com $$ 100 IP CB Y N $$$ 52 CB Y PN $$$ 100 IP CB Y N $$ 111 Y P $ 50 $$$ 60 $$ $$ $$ 76 IP IP IP 65 150 CB FB CB FB Y Y Y Y N PN PN PN $ 70 P $ 926 OP P 34 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | WHERE TO STAY FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES 2101 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) Valparaiso 219-465-6225 fairfieldinn.com/vrpfi HAMPTON INN & SUITES 1451 Silhavy Rd. Valparaiso 219-531-6424 hamptoninn.com HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS & SUITES 1251 Silhavy Rd. Valparaiso 219-464-9395 (888) 897-0084 hiexpress.com INN AT ABERDEEN 3158 S. State Road 2 Valparaiso 219-465-3753 innataberdeen.com MINK LAKE CAMPGROUND (Independently owned) 658 N. Calumet Ave. Valparaiso 219-462-9570 PIKK’S TAVERN (B&B ROOMS ABOVE) 62 W. Lincolnway Valparaiso 219-476-7455 pikkstavern.com QUALITY INN & SUITES 2301 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) Valparaiso 219-465-1700 qualityinn.com SONGBIRD PRAIRIE INN AND SPA 174 N. 600 West Valparaiso 219-759-4274 877-songbrd songbirdprairie.com SUNSET HILL FARM COUNTY PARK CAMPGROUND (County park; call for availability) 35 E. 700 North Valparaiso 219-465-3586 portercountyparks.org SUPER 8 MOTEL 3005 John Howell Dr. Valparaiso 219-464-9840 super8.com 59 $$$ Accessible COUNTRY INN & SUITES PORTAGE 1630 Olmsted Dr. Portage 219-764-0021 countryinns.com/portagein Y $$$ Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) COMFORT INN 2300 Willowcreek Rd. Portage 219-763-7177 choicehotels.com 49 53 High Speed Internet (Y) BEST WESTERN PLUS PORTAGE HOTEL & SUITES 6200 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) Portage 219-734-6727 bestwestern.com $$ $$ Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) COUNTRY INN & SUITES VALPARAISO 2020 LaPorte Ave. Valparaiso 219-476-0000 countryinns.com/valpoin Portage AFFORDABLE SUITES 1550 Olmstead Dr. Portage 219-734-6111 affordablesuites.com BEST WESTERN UNIVERSITY INN 760 W. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) Valparaiso 219-850-1100 bestwestern.com FB Y N IP CB Y N 63 IP CB Y N $$$ 77 IP FB Y N $$$ 85 IP FB Y N $$$ 11 OP FB Y PN $ 30 $$$ 2 $$ Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) # Rooms/Campsites Accessible P Valparaiso Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) High Speed Internet (Y) 75 Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) $ Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) # Rooms/Campsites DONNA JO CAMPGROUND (Independently owned) 1255 S. 350 East Kouts 219-766-2186 donnajocampground.com Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Kouts P 111 OP FB IP $$$ 5 $ 6 $$ 58 FB Y N Y N Y N P IP CB Key Bed & Breakfast Hotels/Motels Campgrounds Cottages/Homes Y N Inspiration Wood Be inspired from the moment you arrive. Beautiful surroundings inspire beautiful thoughts—and meaningful memories. From the moment you pass through the gates onto the 60 acres of Inspiration Wood, you will be surrounded by an atmosphere of peace and tranquility. This newly constructed cottage inn, filled with soaring pines, woodlands and grassy meadows, is a serene environment where businesses, families and organizations can come together to achieve common goals. It is open year-round and is the perfect place for corporate retreats, family reunions, graduations, confirmations, anniversary parties and any other joyful celebration of life’s milestones. You don’t need to host a gathering to seek out this restful corner of the wilderness. Lodging is available for a family vacation package or a couples’ retreat, or for just one person. Step into a fully furnished cottage and you will feel like you have your very own vacation home. Each cottage comes complete with full bathrooms, bed linens, towels, Wi-Fi and DirecTV, daily maid service and cookware and dishes in the full kitchen. Address: 642 E. Inspiration Rd. Westville, IN 46391 Phone: 219-983-9922 Web: inspirationwood.com Email: [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 35 Best Western Plus |Portage Hotel & Suites Offering that little something extra. It’s everything you love about the Best Western brand with a little something extra. From a comfortable stay to holding a special event in one of our banquet rooms which can hold up to 80 guests, Best Western Plus Portage has it all! The kid zone is a great treat for the kids while the adults relax in the hot tub nearby or spend some time in the arcade. Did you forget something at home or need a little snack? Visit our convenience center located in the lobby area. We also feature our lounge open from 5 – 11pm which serves appetizers and dinner items as well as fine beverages. Do not forget about our complimentary breakfast with extended hours for your convenience. Conveniently located off of I-94 exit 19 and only minutes from the Toll Road, Best Western Plus provides you everything you need where you need it. Just 20 minutes from the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park, there are plenty of activities that you and your family can enjoy. Address: 6200 Melton Rd. Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-734-6727 Web: bestwestern.com ADVERTISEMENT Country Inn & Suites by Carlson I love this Country! Enjoy the comforts of home at the Country Inn & Suites by Carlson, conveniently located in Portage just off of I-94 exit 19. This hotel—only ten minutes from the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore—provides convenient access to everything there is to do in the area. Spend some time in the Family Aquatic Center with its heated indoor swimming pool, whirlpool, kiddie pool and game room. There are also lots of perks, like complimentary breakfast, a coin-operated guest laundry facility, free high-speed Internet, a Read It & Return® library, free weekday newspapers and an on-site fitness center. If you’re looking for a bite to eat, the Country Inn & Suites is located within walking distance of several area restaurants. For outdoorsy types looking for some entertainment, Bass Pro Shops—the only one in Northern Indiana—is located right next door. Address: 1630 Olmsted Dr. Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-0021 Web: countryinns.com/portagein ADVERTISEMENT 36 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | WHERE TO STAY Comfort Inn in Porter Spring House Inn Old World charm with modern amenities! Nestled in the heart of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, the Spring House Inn is a charming hotel with lots to offer, including: • Large country-style rooms, each with a private balcony or patio, a microwave and refrigerator • Many rooms offer woodland views • Indoor pool • Complimentary continental breakfast • Exercise room • On-site guest laundry • Picturesque sitting rooms • Complimentary Wi-Fi Perfect for family gatherings, intimate getaways, or business retreats! Address: 303 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-929-4600 Email: [email protected] Web : springhouseinn.com Rested. Set. Go. With all the amenities you need, Comfort Inn will get you rested and ready for anything. Conveniently located off of Interstate 80-94, this hotel is just minutes from the Indiana Dunes and restaurants and shops in Portage, Porter and Chesterton. Address: 1800 W. U.S. 20, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-787-1400 Web : choicehotels.com ADVERTISEMENT Hilton Garden Inn ADVERTISEMENT Dunes Walk Inn You Can Count On Us! Retreat, relax, renew in a historic setting located in the Indiana Dunes. The Hilton Garden Inn offers a great location near Interstate 80-90 and Interstate 94, just 10 minutes from Valparaiso University and a five-minute drive from Indiana Dunes State Park. Enjoy your stay in a spacious guest room at Hilton Garden Inn Chesterton. We’ve got everything you need, from complimentary Wi-Fi to a large work desk to the comfortable Garden Sleep System® bed in our king rooms. Relax in the sitting area in your easy chair with ottoman and use great amenities like the in-room hospitality center with microwave, refrigerator, and Keurig coffee maker in every guest room. Enjoy a cooked-to-order breakfast at the Garden Grill Restaurant or dinner served nightly 7 days a week. We promise to do whatever it takes to ensure you’re satisfied! You can count on us. Guaranteed! Address: 501 Gateway North, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9500 Web : chesterton.hgi.com ADVERTISEMENT Located on nearly four acres and set in a mansion built in 1881, DunesWalk Inn delivers modern luxury in a historic setting with the quiet comfort of a boutique hotel. Sharing a border with the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, DunesWalk Inn is steps from hiking and biking trails and 3 minutes to Lake Michigan beaches. With your choice of two suites and three guest rooms, DunesWalk is a luxurious escape for a romantic getaway—as well as a family-friendly vacation rental. Address: 1491 N. Furnleigh Ln., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-6393 Web: duneswalkinn.com ADVERTISEMENT Want to enjoy great savings while you’re enjoying Indiana Dunes Country? Pick up a copy of the Dunes Deals coupon book at our Visitor Center (see page 72) starting Memorial Day weekend or print a copy at indianadunes.com/destinationguides/electronic-guides/ INDIANA DUNES DEALS VALUABLE COUP COUNTRY ONS INSIDE The Inn at Aberdeen Speakeasy at the Spa and Spa Special Events Center Country manor hospitality meets modern convenience. It’s not often you find a place that hosts everyone from honeymooners to business travelers to actors to federal Supreme Court justices to families with small children and their favorite pet—and also ensures everyone has an enjoyable time. The 11 rooms of this 1850s home-turned-inn feature in-room Jacuzzi for two, fireplace, DirecTV with Starz and ESPN, free Wi-Fi and an evening dessert and beverage bar. Enjoy the gazebo and gardens or host your wedding there. Wine tastings, dinners, showers, parties and mystery dinners—the Inn’s chefs make them special. Awaken to a three course served breakfast and lively conversation with the proprietors after a dreamy night’s sleep. More than a destination, the Inn at Aberdeen is an EXPERIENCE. Join us for the historic rebirth of our 1920s speakeasy and enjoy nightly entertainment, player piano and piano bar. Light fare will be served all day. Open daily. Our events center is the perfect location for weddings, anniversaries, company functions and parties that require a special touch. Nestled in the woods along the banks of the Calumet River, the setting is both private and romantic. Catering and event planning on site for parties up to 250. Hours: 7 days a weeks beginning at 11am Address: 333 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter, IN Phone: 219.841.6677 Web: SpaSpeakeasy.com, SpaSpecialEventsCenter.com Email: [email protected] Address: 3158 S. State Road 2, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219 -465-3753 Web: innataberdeen.com ADVERTISEMENT Quality Inn ADVERTISEMENT Waterbird Lakeside Inn Quality Inn® hotel in Chesterton, Indiana offers easy access to Indiana Dunes State Park. We are also close to the National Lakeshore and Seven Peaks Waterpark. We are minutes away from Interstate 94 Exit 26A and Indiana Toll Road Exit 31. Our amenities include a free full hot breakfast and free wireless high-speed Internet access. All guest rooms offer cable television, coffee maker, microwave, refrigerator, pillow-top mattress, hair dryer, iron and ironing board. Address: 418 Council Dr., Chesterton Phone: 219 -929 -5549 Web: qualityinn.com WaterBird Lakeside Inn is the perfect setting for relaxation. All of our oversize rooms include the following amenities: • • • • • • • • • Private lake view balcony Express checkout Microwave and refrigerators in all rooms 32” LCD TV’s In-room coffee makers Clock radio Extended cable & HBO In-room high speed wireless Internet access Whirlpool rooms include LCD HD TVs & DVD players Address: 556 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton Phone: 888-957-3529 Fax: 219-928-1503 Web: waterbirdinn.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT At Home in the Woods B&B Where every season is a masterpiece. Country Inn & Suites Valparaiso Experience the royal treatment in a Country setting. This National-Park-themed bed and breakfast combines the luxury of a hotel with the comfortable casualness of staying with family. Hosts Victoria and Scott Phillips create a cozy, one-with-nature atmosphere through their inspired decor, gourmet four-course breakfasts (complete with berries and herbs from their garden) and eco-friendly practices. Soak in the hot tub or pool, or steam in the sauna. Relax in the swing by the pond. “Victoria’s breakfast is unbelievably decadent and filling. You will not go away hungry!” “One of the best B&Bs we’ve ever been to!” “A quiet, secluded, woodsy, beautiful retreat.” Address: 898 N. 350 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-1325 Web: athomeinthewoodsbb.com This 100 percent non-smoking hotel is located within walking distance of Valparaiso University, and is only about a mile from downtown restaurants, entertainment and shopping. Visitors at this friendly hotel will revel in all sorts of perks. Every room is equipped with a 32” flatscreen TV, mini-fridge and microwave. Free, fresh-baked chocolate chip cookies are available in the lobby 24/7. A full hot and cold breakfast is served daily (with four different menus). There’s a pool, hot tub, free high-speed Internet, guest laundry services and much more. Address: 2020 LaPorte Ave. Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-476-0000 Web: countryinns.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Best Western Indian Oak Enjoy a welcoming experience in comfortable surroundings. You’ll find everything needed to sustain business travelers and large families alike: 39” LED TVs, microwaves and refrigerators in all rooms, a complimentary hot breakfast, a 50-foot indoor pool, whirlpool and sauna, a fitness facility that’s available 24/7, a guest laundry, meeting rooms, an on-site business center, wireless Internet and more. Guests will love the oversized lake view and standard rooms—some available with fireplaces and/or whirlpools. The picturesque lobby and extremely convenient location are also excellent perks. Address: 558 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-2200 Toll-free: 800-552-4232 Web: indianoak.com ADVERTISEMENT DAY TRIPS 1 2 3 4 5 The only thing better than vacationing in Indiana Dunes Country is staying longer at one of our hotels or B&Bs and adding a day trip to Chicago or other Northern Indiana Communities. 7 6 1 INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Chicago LaPorte County St. Joseph County Marshall County Elkhart County Kosciusko County LaGrange County 2 1. Chicago Stay at a relaxing hotel or B&B in Indiana Dunes Country and drive or take a South Shore Line train into Chicago for the day to see towering skyscrapers, professional sporting events, Navy Pier, a Chicago Architecture Foundation river boat tour, Lincoln Park Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute of Chicago, Skydeck Chicago, 360 CHICAGO or a theatre performance. Enjoy food from star chefs and great events. It’s all about an hour away from Indiana Dunes Country. South Shore Line Web: mysouthshoreline.com Chicago visitors bureau Web: choosechicago.com 44 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DAY TRIPS 2. Michigan City Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets Legendary brands at 25 to 65 percent savings every day. Address: 601 Wabash St., Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-879-6506 Web: premiumoutlets.com/ lighthouseplace Blue Chip Casino, Hotel & Spa 65,000 square feet of gaming. Address: 777 Blue Chip Dr., Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-879-7711 Web: bluechipcasino.com LaPorte County visitors bureau Phone: 219-872-5055 Web: michigancitylaporte.com 3. University of Notre Dame The Eck Visitor Center’s free public walking tour offers a historical and social overview of life at Notre Dame. Most tours include visits to the Grotto, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Golden Dome and “Touchdown Jesus.” Visit website for details, including times and wheelchair availability. Address: Eck Visitors Center, Notre Dame Avenue, Notre Dame, IN 46556 Phone: 574-631-5726 Web: nd.edu/visitors (click Eck Visitors Center) Visit South Bend Mishawaka Phone: 800-519-0577 Web: visitsouthbend.com HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 3 5 6 4 4. Barn Quilt Trail Indiana’s first Barn Quilt Trail features a series of large murals painted in a variety of quilt patterns on barns throughout the rolling countryside, as well as on businesses and in public spaces in downtown areas like Culver and Plymouth. There are four different barn trail loops, each taking about an hour or two to drive. Visit the website below to learn more and download the trail map, or call the number below for more information. As you explore, remember that barn quilts celebrate the history of agriculture, the time-honored tradition of quilting, the communities’ passion for art and Hoosier Hospitality. Marshall County visitors bureau Phone: 800-626-5353 Web: visitmarshallcounty.org 7 5. Amish Acres & Quilt Gardens Amish Acres offers guided tours of the historic house and farm, buggy rides, live theatre, shops and threshers dinner. And check out the Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail, featuring quilt-patterned gardens with millions of flower blooms. Quilt gardens viewable May 30–Oct. 1. Amish Acres Address: 1600 W. Market St. (U.S. 6), Nappanee, IN 46550 Phone: 800-800-4942 Web: amishacres.com Quilt Gardens Phone: 800-262-8161 Web: quiltgardens.com Elkhart County visitors bureau Phone: 800-262-8161 Web: amishcountry.org 6. The Village at Winona Enjoy shopping, dining and fun in this arts community on Winona Lake. Address: 700 Park Ave., Winona Lake, IN 46590 Phone: 574-268-9888 Web: villageatwinona.com Kosciusko County visitors bureau Phone: 800-800-6090 Web: koscvb.org 7. Shipshewana Flea Market Midwest’s largest flea market. Address: Trading Place America, 345 S. Van Buren St., Shipshewana, IN 46565 Phone: 260-768-4129 Web: tradingplaceamerica.com LaGrange County visitors bureau Phone: 800-254-8090 Web: visitlagrangecounty.org Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 45 DINING & NIGHTLIFE L AT I T U D E S WAT E R F R O N T DINING AND EVENTS Make our mouths water! Share what you’re eating: tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond 46 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE LD N Beverly Shores BARTLETT’S GOURMET GRILL & TAVERN 131 E. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. 12) 219-879-3081 eatatbartletts.com Gourmet food in a casual environment. Burgers, steaks, fish, craft beer LD N C C L N CD $ GURU AUTHENTIC INDIAN CUISINE 418 Roberts Road 219-929-5538 theguruindiancuisine.com Enjoy the creations of an experienced Indian chef LD N CD $$ HAPPY WOK 552-2 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-983-9755 A dine in or take out Chinese Restaurant LD N C $ HOT DIGGETY DAWG 119 S. Calumet Rd. 219-395-6136 hdiggitydawg.com Gourmet hot dogs, wraps, soups and Italian beef LD N C $ S N IVY’S BOHEMIA HOUSE 321 Broadway 219-929-4319 facebook.com/Ivysbohemiahouse Breakfast quiche and baked goods, sandwiches, soup B LD N CD $ KOUNTRY WILD SALOON 1050 Broadway 219-250-2461 facebook.com/KountryWILDSaloon Pizza, food specials and an array of drinks LD CD $ LEMON TREE MEDITERRANEAN GRILL 356 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-8733 lemontreegrill.com Chicken kabob, chicken shawarma, falafel, beer/wine LD N CD $ LUCREZIA 428 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5829 lucreziacafe.com Fine Northern Italian cuisine & wines. Alfresco dining. Martini bar LD N C $$ Chesterton (cont.) GOOD TO GO BY LUCREZIA 420 S. Calumet Road 219-926-3866 goodtogobylucrezia.com Sandwiches, box lunches, wine, olive oil, balsamic vinegar $ $$ HUNTER’S BREWING 1535 S. Calumet Rd. 219-728-6729 huntersbrewing.com Nanobrewery brewing beers by hand, focus on quality and flavor Burns Harbor BROWN BAG SANDWICH SHOP 229 Dunes Hwy. (U.S. 12) 219-787-8193 A bar style sandwich shop BL MILL BAR & GRILL 295 Melton Road 219-841-9475 Find us on Facebook Food, drinks and entertainment B LD N C $ C $ 3 3 Chesterton 3 AARON’S MORTGAGE INN 1400 Broadway 219-926-3113 219-728-6393 Serving pizzas and drinks LD C $ AJ’S PIZZA 3050 Matson Drive 219-464-8282 Find us on Facebook Pizza, wings, salads and sandwiches LD N CD $ APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR 791 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-921-0070 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world LD N C $$ MUSASHI JAPANESE RESTAURANT & SUSHI BAR 757 Indian Boundary Rd., Ste. 1 219-728-1529 Sushi, noodle dishes and hibachi favorites LD N C $ BOB EVANS 475 W. Gateway Blvd. 219-983-1575 bobevans.com High quality food and excellent hospitality B LD N C $$ NORTHSIDE DINER 100 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-9040 Find us on Facebook Breakfast or lunch anytime, any day. Open 5am daily B LS N C $ D N C $$ OCTAVE GRILL 137 S. Calumet Rd. 219-395-8494 Find us on Facebook Burgers, sandwiches, entrees, salads, drinks. Dinner only weekdays LD N C $ LD C $ BL N C $ D N PEGGY SUE’S DINER 117 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-8524 Find us on Facebook Homemade soups & daily specials C $ LD CD $ LD N N EL CANTARITO 709 Plaza Dr. 219-728-6962 elcantaritocuisine.com Food with the finest, freshest ingredients PIZZA HUT 754 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-5000 pizzahut.com Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts C $ LD $$ LD N N CD EL SALTO 757 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-395-9890 elsaltorestaurant.com Authentic Mexican cuisine POPOLANO’S RESTAURANT 225 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5552 Find us on Facebook Steaks, seafood, pastas, pizza, alfresco dining C $ PORT DRIVE-IN 419 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-3500 theportdrivein.net Chili dogs, root beer, car hops, open seasonally LD N C $ RED CUP CAFÉ 115 Broadway 219-929-1804 Find us on Facebook Local, organic, gluten-free offerings B LS N CD $ ROUND THE CLOCK RESTAURANT 1607 S. Calumet Rd. 219-983-9900 roundtheclockchesterton.com Voted #1 breakfast, lunch and family restaurant B LD N C $ L N C $$ SMOKEY’S SOUTHERN BARBEQUE 375 E. U.S. 20 219-878-1418 Find us on Facebook Pulled pork, ribs & BBQ LD N C $$ SUNRISE FAMILY RESTAURANT 475 Sand Creek Dr. 219-921-1488 Find us on Facebook Daily homemade specials/soups, open 6am-9pm B LD N C $ CRAFT HOUSE 711 Plaza Drive 219-929-5570 facebook.com/crafthousechesterton Craft beers, signature cocktails and a delectable menu DANNY O’S BAR & GRILL 1050 South Calumet Rd. 219-926-7530 Fish, steaks, pizza & sandwiches. Wi-Fi DUNELAND PIZZA 520 Broadway 219-926-1163 dunelandpizza.com Pizza with thin, thick, deep pan, wheat, corn meal crusts; sandwiches FLANNERY’S TAVERN 125 Calumet Rd. 219-926-2614 A popular downtown establishment. Food includes frozen pizzas and chips S $ BL N C BD N C GASTRO 49 PUB & EATERY 361 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-1814 Find us on Facebook Vibrant spot with great local beer and food LD N C $$ GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA & PUB 371 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-6363 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, banquet facilities, lunch, dinner & bar LD N CD $ GEORGE’S GYROS SPOT 325 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5435 georgesgyrosspot.com Gyros, Chicago Hot Dogs, Italian beef, and more. Wi-Fi LD N C $ FLYING MERMAID CAFÉ AND BOUTIQUE 206 Calumet Rd. 219-728-1691 Find us on Facebook Bagels, muffins, coffee, soup, sandwiches, salad, pie GARDEN GRILLE AND BAR 501 Gateway Blvd. 219-983-9500 chesterton.hgi.com Breakfast buffet, dinner, steaks, pastas, seafood. Wi-Fi $ $ 3 3 SCHOOLHOUSE SHOP 278 E. 1500 North 219-926-1551 schoolhouseshop.com Patio plate lunches, weather permitting 21 & Over $ $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) C C-Carry Out D-Delivery -Accessible, N-Non Smoking ROLLING STONEBAKER Home is 2 E. Dunes Hwy., Beverly Shores. Check website for schedule and other locations 219-246-0068 rollingstonebaker.com Wood-fired pizza served from old Studebaker fire truck B LD B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks Food Trucks HUNGRY, INC Home base is storefront at 539 Broadway, Chesterton, but check website for schedule and other locations 219-929-1615 hungrytruckinc.com. Sandwiches, soups, salads, potatoes. 21 & Over Café Ethnic Dining Pizza $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining C-Carry Out D-Delivery -Accessible, N-Non Smoking Key B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 3 Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 47 LD N CD $ Portage TAO CHEN’S 532 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-2542 taochenschinese.com Contemporary Chinese cuisine LD N C $$ THIRD COAST SPICE CAFE 761 Indian Boundary Rd. Suite 6 219-926-5858 Organic coffee, omelets, sandwiches thirdcoastspice.com LD N C $ ANDY’S RED HOTS 6220 Central Ave. 219-763-2333 Great hot dogs and more at an excellent price LD N CD $ TIGER LILY CAFE 1505-2 S. Calumet Rd. 219-921-0488 tigerlilycafe.net Sandwiches, flatbreads, barbecue, vegetarian/vegan L N C $ APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR 6211 U.S. 6 219-762-3243 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world LD N C $$ UPPER DECK LOUNGE 139 ½ S. Calumet Rd. 219-929-1040 Enjoy a variety of food, drinks and entertainment D C $ BAM PIZZA COMPANY 2596 Portage Mall 219-763-1767 bampizzacompany.com Pizza, sandwiches, wings, soup & salads LD N CD $ VAL’S FAMOUS PIZZA & GRINDERS 112 S. 11th St. 219-921-0056 valsfamouspizzaandgrinders.com Pizza, calzones, grinders, lunch specials, lunch & dinner VENICE PIZZA 1453 Broadway 219-728-6438 Find us on Facebook Chicago style deep dish, stuffed and traditional pizzas VILLA NOVA 213 Broadway 219-728-6648 Find us on Facebook Upscale pizza bistro, menu made from scratch w/ finest ingredients 3 LD N CD $ BUFFALO WILD WINGS 6530 U.S. 6 219-762-2121 buffalowildwings.com A sports bar feel and family restaurant serving wings and more LD N C $ D N CD $ CAPPO’S 6656 U.S. 6 219-762-5563 capposcasualdining.com Pizza, chicken & ribs LD N C $ LD N CD $ CICI’S PIZZA 6028 Central Ave. 219-764-8045 cicispizza.com Pizza, pasta, salad & desserts, large groups welcome LD S N C $ CLANCY’S OF PORTAGE 2542 Portage Mall 219-764-4995 Find us on Facebook Authentic Irish pub, pizza, wings, fish & chips, sandwiches DS CORNER BISTRO 6295 Ameriplex Dr. 219-762-8911 Find us on Facebook Sandwiches, burgers, soup, salads & weekend brunch L N C $ L DS C $ D N C $ C $ Hebron N $ COUNTRY KITCHEN, THE 120 N. Main St. 219-996-9221 Country cooking, pies B LD LIGHTHOUSE 425 Pratt St. 219-996-9040 Pizza, burgers, seafood, drink specials LD MARTI’S PLACE AT RAMSEY’S LANDING 17519 N. 700 W. 219-996-3363 martisplace.com Prime rib & seafood, overlooks the Kankakee River BL N PAV’S 642 N. Main St. 219-996-7287 Find us on Facebook Pizza, gyros, burgers, beef and more LD N CD $ SUZY’S DINER 407 S. Main St. 219-996-3463 Find us on Facebook 50’s diner serves breakfast all day, lunch, dinner, pizza, ice cream LD S B LD N DEPOT HOT DOGS 5016 Melton Road (U.S. 20 and County Line Road) 219-406-0900 Open April-September. Find us on Facebook C $ LD N C $ TRES AMIGOS MEXICAN CUISINE 816 Country Square Plaza 219-509-3011 tresamigosmex.com Enjoy a variety of Mexican favorites. B LD N EL AMIGO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3380 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-3833 Authentic Mexican cuisine C $ LD N C $ D N EL CANTARITO MEXICAN CUISINE 6291 Central Ave. 219-762-1900 elcantaritocuisine.com Food with finest, freshest ingredients, smoking on outdoor patio C $ EL PUEBLO RESTAURANT 5350 U.S. 6 219-764-8226 Find us on Facebook Mexican restaurant where everybody goes home happy LD N N CD $ C FIRST WOK 2555 Willowcreek Road 219-762-8858 firstwokportage.com Szechuan, Hunan and Cantonese Chinese food. No MSG LD LD N $$ $ N C C FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT 5942 U.S. 6 219-763-4131 Japanese specialties and sushi LD B N D $ $ N C C GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA 5023 U.S. 6 219-763-1545 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, dinner only LD $ C $ N C N GREAT WALL BUFFET 5920 U.S. 6 219-763-7776 greatwallportage.com Chinese and Japanese cuisine LD N C $$ $ ISLAMORADA FISH COMPANY 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr. 219-787-1800 fishcompany.com Enjoy seafood and other dishes in setting featuring large aquariums LD N C $ $ JADE GARDEN 6222 Central Ave. 219-762-2388 Cantonese cuisine: Large variety menu, authentic Chinese atmosphere J&J’S PIZZA SHACK 6275 Central Ave. 219-763-6767 jjspizzashack.com Pizza, dinner & lunch LD N CD $ LATITUDES WATERFRONT DINING & EVENTS 5987 Dune Harbor Drive (U.S. 12, across from Ogden Dunes) 219-841-9570 latitudesatmarinashores.com Enjoy culinary favorites with a waterfront view LD N CD $$ WANA PIZZA 618 A Front St. 219-996-9262 wanapizza.com Pizza, sandwiches, wings and calzones Kouts BAUM’S BRIDGE INN 1092 S. Baum’s Bridge Rd. 219-766-0515 Find us on Facebook Daily specials, full dinner menu, steaks & chops BIRKY’S BAKERY & MARKET 205 S. Main St. 219-766-3851 birkyfarms.com Homemade baked goods, packaged home-grown pork CRONIES CHARHOUSE & GIN MILL 310 S. Main St. 219-766-3172 Prime rib & lake perch Find us on Facebook LD GEORGE’S KOFFEE KUP 105 S. Main St. 219-766-2414 facebook.com/koffeekup Country cooking & homemade soups and pies BL MAIN STREET PIZZA PLUS 201 S. Main St. 219-766-2298 Find us on Facebook Pizza, sandwiches, dinner only, closed Monday PIGGIES AND CREAM AT THE DEPOT 104 Railroad St. 219-766-0263 birkyfarms.com Sandwiches, pizza, salads and ice cream treats D N LD N C $ C $ 3 DENNY’S 6171 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-764-0311 dennys.com Around the clock breakfast and casual family dining $$ C $$ 3 Pines DARK STAR OF THE DUNES BAR & GRILL 3860 W. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. 12) 219-874-7330 Find us on Facebook Chef-driven menu, weekend brunch, craft beer, live music DS N C $ JOE’S BAR & GRILL 2958 W. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. 12) 219-879-9336 Wings, pizza, cool salads, burgers, Italian beef LD S N CD $ 48 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE CURLEY JO’S BAR AND GRILL 2528 Portage Mall, Portage 219-763-0195 Find us on Facebook A neighborhood bar 3 21 & Over $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) 3 GREEKS GYROS, CHICKEN & RIBS 3378 Willowcreek Rd. 219-945-9974 Find us on Facebook Gyros, chicken, ribs. Quality food served fast -Accessible, N-Non Smoking C-Carry Out D-Delivery B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks 21 & Over Chesterton cont. $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) Café Ethnic Dining Pizza C-Carry Out D-Delivery Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining -Accessible, N-Non Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks Key $$ 3 Lucrezia Take your taste buds on a tour of Northern Italy. Within the walls of this trattoria, portions are large, service is impeccable and you’ll fit in whether you’re sunburned and sandy or dressed for a romantic evening on the town. Lucrezia has been awarded consecutive titles of #1 Italian Restaurant for Best of the Region, numerous Neighbors’ Choice Awards, and was selected as one of the top restaurants in the region in the Midwest Living Culinary Tour. The restaurant has also been featured on Chicago TV shows Check, Please! and 190 North. Although it would be easy to fill up on signature dishes like chicken vesuvio, osso buco, veal limone or stuffed eggplant, you’ll want to save room for the sinfully delicious homemade desserts—like stuffed strawberries or the droolworthy zuccotto filled with pistachio and white chocolate mousse. Visiting in the summer? Don’t miss dining alfresco on the brick-paved outdoor patio. It’s shielded from the street by a wall of topiary-like bushes— you’ll feel like you’ve been invited to relax in the private garden of a wealthy contessa. Don’t forget to visit us at our second location in Crown Point! Hours: Sunday–Thu 11am–10pm Friday–Saturday 11am–11pm Address: 428 S. Calumet Rd. Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-LUCY (5829) Web: lucreziacafe.com ADVERTISEMENT Good to Go By Lucrezia VALPARAISO Gourmet delights for when you’re on the go. Great meals begin with great ingredients, and Good to Go prides itself on providing the highest quality delicacies to please your palate. This deli/specialty market/wine shop carries everything from imported cheeses and meats to fine breads, gourmet foods and a selection of prepared food from Lucrezia Café— their next-door sister. Their wine assortment is sure to astound, boasting everything from affordable sippers to impressive, special-occasion masterpieces. Be sure not to miss Good to Go’s tasting emporium, which sports a plethora of ultra premium extra virgin olive oils, flavor-infused olive oils and aged balsamic vinegars from around the world. Heading off for a picnic lunch on the beach, or merely looking for a fast, highquality meal? Each of Good to Go’s boxed lunches contain a premium deli sandwich (made with only the finest Boar’s Head® meats and cheeses), a dailychanging side salad and a dessert, all packaged in an eco-friendly box. Visit us at our new Valparaiso location with extended hours at 54 W. Lincolnway for wine and craft beer flights, while enjoying our gourmet cheese & charcuterie boards, flat breads, small plates and pastas. Address: 420 S. Calumet Rd. Chesterton, IN 46304 Monday-Friday 10am-6pm Saturday 10am-5pm or 54 W. Lincolnway Valparaiso, IN 46383 Monday-Thursday 11am-9pm Friday-Saturday 11am-10pm Phone: Chesterton: 219-926-EVOO (3866) Valparaiso: 219-286-7668 Web: goodtogobylucrezia.com ADVERTISEMENT WINES & BREWS Indiana Dunes Country is home to a growing winery/craft brewery scene. Find your new favorite and share your experience with @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond. WINERIES BREWPUBS Aftermath Enjoy a variety of ciders with food pairings. Hours: See website Address: 454 S. Greenwich St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-390-9463 Web: aftermathcidery.com Figure Eight Brewing Pick a favorite among the 11 handcrafted beers on tap and pair it with something delicious from the healthier-than-pubfood menu. Call for a tour. Hours: Wed-Sat 11am10pm Sun 11am-9pm Address: 150 S. Washington St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 29-477-2000 Web: figureeightbrewing.com Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery Enjoy free estate wine tastings. Call for group tours. Hours: April 15 – Dec 31: 10am – 6pm daily; Jan 2 – April 14: Thursday and Friday 11am – 5pm; Saturday and Sunday 10am – 6pm Address: 430 E. U.S. 6, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4936 Web: andersonswinery.com Butler Winery Sample and purchase wines from the Indiana Uplands viticultural area. Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm; Sunday noon – 6pm Address: 401 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-929-1400 Web: butlerwinery.com Misbeehavin’ Meads Enjoy made-onsite mead (honey wine) and food platters. Hours: See website Address: 65 Franklin St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: See website Web: misbeehavin.com Running Vines Winery Explore wines for the entire palate and excellent food pairings. Hours: Tuesday – Thursday noon8pm; Friday noon –10pm; Saturday 10am –10pm; Sunday noon – 5pm Address: 119 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-390-9463 Web: runningvines.com Four Fathers Brewing Producing revolutionary beers that, like our founding fathers, follow a slightly different path. Hours: Mon, Thu & Fri 4-9pm; Sat noon-9pm Sun 11am-6pm Address: 1555 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-464-9712 Web: fourfathersbrewing.com Hunter’s Brewing A nanobrewery that focuses on hand-brewed beers ranging from the traditional to the creative. Hours: Wed-Fri 4-9pm Sat noon-9pm Sun 11am-6pm Address: 1525 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-6729 Web: huntersbrewing.com Ironwood Brewing Co. Find true-to-style beers with an occasional twist, and brews made with local ingredients. Hours: Tue-Wed 4-9pm FriSat 2-10pm Sun 1-6pm Address: 6 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-405-4644 Web: ironwoodbrewing.beer 50 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE BUS TOURS Illiana Brew Bus Phone: 219-595-9633 Web: illianabrewbus.com South Shore Brew Bus Phone: 219-477-8284 Web: southshorebrewbus.com EVENTS Corkscrew & Brew Festival – March Celebrating local wineries and breweries. Web: dunelandchamber.com Dark Lord Day - April Famous Dark Lord brew released. Web: darklordday.com Valparaiso Wine Festival - July Sample 80 wines at downtown fest. Web: valparaisoevents.com Brew Athlon - August Northwest Indiana breweries shine at this event. Web: brewathlon.com Valpo Brewfest - September Sample 150 brews at downtown event. Web: valpobrewfest.com Rock & Brews/Blues & Brews/ OAKtoberfest–July, September, October Great beers, food and entertainment. Web: taltree.org Porter’s Perfect Pint Festival - October Sample 40 craft beers. Web: patsliquors.com -Accessible, N-Non Smoking C-Carry Out D-Delivery $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) BL D N C $ LEROY’S HOT STUFF 333 W. U.S. 20 219-926-6211 facebook.com/leroyshotstuff Mexican & American cuisine BL DS N CD $ SANTIAGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANTE 124 Lincoln St. 219-926-6518 Find us on Facebook Authentic Mexican food LD N D $ VILLAGE TAVERN 128 Lincoln St. 219-926-5002 Food specialties (21 & older) specialty burgers LD C $ 3 WAGNER’S RIBS 361 Wagner Rd. 219-926-7614 wagnersribs.com Full menu, specialty-pork ribs (21 & older) LD N C $ 3 WHISTLE STOP BAR AND GRILL 206 E. Lincoln St. 219-921-0100 A historic building where good friends, good drinks and good food meet. Find us on facebook! BL D C $$ 3 PEPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 809 McCool Rd. 219-762-7666 pepes.com Tasty Mexican food with all its authentic flavors LD N C $$ ROSEWOOD FAMILY RESTAURANT 367 W. U.S. 6 219-763-2282 rosewoodfamilyrestaurants.com Greek & American dishes BL D N C $ $ SALVORAS PIZZA 786 McCool Rd. 219-759-5333 salvoraspizza.com Pizza, pasta & more; carry out or delivery only LD N CD $ LD $ 3 N CD $ SANTINI’S PIZZA & WINGS 385 W. US 6 219-762-2113 santinisportage.com A favorite of people who love pizza, wings and more D C $ 3 SPORTSMAN’S LOUNGE 381 W. U.S. 6 219-762-4099 Find us on Facebook Known for fresh, brick-baked pizza, entertainment LD N C $$ D N CD $ LD N C $ LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE 1650 Olmstead Dr. 219-762-5911 longhornsteakhouse.com Fresh steaks, fish, chicken ribs and more LD N MARK O’S 2385 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-3779 markosbarandgrill.com Cold beers and delicious food LD N C $ MOODS PUB & EATERY 2548 Portage Mall 219-762-7305 Burgers, chicken strips, pizza, beer garden LD C $ NICKY’S GRILL 6315 U.S. 20 219-850-4188 Gyros, tacos, chili dogs, sandwiches and more LD N CD $ NICKY’S GYROS 5455 U.S. 6 219-734-6744 Gyros, burgers, hot dogs LD N CD $ ON THE ROX 2522 Portage Mall 219-763-7300 ontheroxxbar.com Food, drinks, music, pool, darts BL DS N C $ PIZZA HUT 6159 U.S. 6 219-762-9554 pizzahut.com Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts LD N CD $ PORTAGE HOUSE OF PANCAKES & RESTAURANT 5900 U.S. 6 219-762-9588 Omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, soup and salads BL N C $ QUAKER STEAK & LUBE 6245 Ameriplex Dr. 219-764-9464 quakersteakandlube.com Wings LD S N CD RED CARPET LOUNGE 6481 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-762-7485 Tacos & steak sandwiches (21 & older) LD ROSEWOOD FAMILY RESTAURANT 2606 Portage Mall 219-763-3297 rosewoodfamilyrestaurants.com Greek & American dishes BL D N RUSTY NAIL SPORTS BAR & GRILL 2420 Dombey Rd 219-850-4675 facebook.com/RustyNailSports Food, drinks, entertainment, activities and more BL D RYAN’S TAVERN 6340 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-763-7771 Drinks, cheeseburgers, tacos and more LD N C $ SCHOOP’S HAMBURGERS 3285 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-1410 schoophamburgers.com Hamburgers & full-service breakfast. President Obama ate here BL D N C $ SHENANIGANS 6121 Melton Rd. (U.S. 20) 219-762-0509 Find us on Facebook Offering a variety of food, including Mexican and Italian BL D STEAK ‘N SHAKE 6231 U.S. 6 219-762-0545 steaknshake.com Steak burgers, chili, milkshakes and more BL D N C $ STONE QUARRY LOUNGE 2596 Portage Mall 219-762-5812 Enjoy a variety of bar food and drinks LD C $ 3 D C $ 3 TACO LOCO 5455 U.S. 6 219-734-6744 Mexican restaurant that will deliver LD N CD $ TATE’S PLACE 3051 Willowcreek Rd. 219-764-8283 Find us on Facebook Family restaurant, homemade specialties BL D N LD N TEXAS ROADHOUSE 6130 E. U.S. 6 219-762-5900 texasroadhouse.com Steak, chicken, ribs, seafood, salads. Lunch added on weekends D N VERONA PIZZA & WINGS 3365 Willowcreek Rd. 219-764-6464 veronapizzaportage.com Specializing in great pizza and the best beef sandwiches LD N SUNSET LOUNGE 5844 U.S. 6 219-762-6065 sunsetofportage.com Pizza, burgers, wings, drink specials, entertainment TEXAS CORRAL 5880 U.S. 6 219-764-7515 texascorral.net Steaks, burgers, seafood, ribs and pasta CD $$$ 3 3 21 & Over B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks COUNTRY PRIDE RESTAURANT 1600 W. U.S. 20 219-926-8566 tatravelcenters.com Homestyle food, complimentary seconds, healthy eating options 21 & Over Porter $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) C-Carry Out D-Delivery -Accessible, N-Non Smoking Portage (cont.) B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 3 South Haven $$ $ C 3 3 Valparaiso C $ $ C APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR 670 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-477-3868 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world $$ AURELIO’S PIZZA 265 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-462-9700 aureliospizza.com Chicago-style pizza, salads, chicken, sandwiches BARADA KABOB 55 University Dr. 219-299-2247 baradakabob.com Kabobs, falafel, hummus, tabbouleh Key Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining Café Ethnic Dining Pizza $$ CD $ Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 51 $ BOB EVANS 2201 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-464-9201 bobevans.com High quality food and excellent hospitality LD C $$ FRANKLIN HOUSE 58 S. Campbell St. 219-462-2533 franklinhousevalpo.com Porter County’s oldest pub. Burgers, live music Thu. – Sat. LD BON FEMME 66 W. Lincolnway 219-531-0612 bonfemme.com French cuisine in an elegant setting LD N $$ GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA 2605 La Porte Ave. 219-477-4255 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, banquet facilities, lunch, dinner LD N CD $ BROADWAY CAFÉ ICE CREAM PARLOR 1805 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-464-0112 broadwaycafevalpo.net Amer., Greek, Ital. & Mex. BL D N C $ GOOD TO GO BY LUCREZIA 54 W. Lincolnway 219-286-7668 goodtogobylucrezia.com Sandwiches, cheese boards, wine, craft beer LD N C $ BUFFALO WILD WINGS 212 E. Lincolnway 219-548-9464 buffalowildwings.com A sports bar feel and family restaurant serving wings and more LD N C $$ D N CD $ BURGERHAUS 3304 Calumet Ave. 219-286-3296 burgerhausvalpo.com The most creatively delicious burgers around LD N CAMPBELL ST. CAFÉ 4245 Meridian Woods Dr. 219-531-1800 Enjoy delicious breakfasts and lunches pinesvillage.org/campbell_st.html BL CASA DEL MAR MEXICAN BAR & GRILL 157 S. Franklin St. 219-850-1414 Enjoy Mexican favorites in a lively atmosphere LD CASTEEL’S CASUAL DINING & COCKTAILS 210 Aberdeen Drive 219-531-7427 Find us on Facebook Ribs, steaks, pasta, seafood, sandwiches CHILI’S GRILL AND BAR 250 Silhavy Rd. 219-465-7344 chilis.com Fajitas, ribs, burgers, seafood and more CHINA HOUSE 120 E. Lincolnway 219-462-5788 Chinese cuisine COLADA’S PIZZERIA 1050 Horseprarie Ave. 219-464-0075 zaoisland.net/coladas-pizza (Inside Zao Island) N 21 & Over FOUR FATHERS BREWING 1555 W. Lincolnway, Suite 105 219-464-9712 fourfathersbrewing.com A new twist on traditional brews GREEK’S PIZZERIA 59 Indiana Ave. 219-464-7102 greekspizzeriavalparaiso.com Pizza, salads, sandwiches, appetizers 21 & Over C Valparaiso (cont.) $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) N Café Ethnic Dining Pizza C-Carry Out D-Delivery C-Carry Out D-Delivery BL D Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining -Accessible, N-Non Smoking -Accessible, N-Non Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks BLACKBIRD CAFÉ 114 E. Lincolnway 219-548-2811 blackbirdcafevalparaiso.com Bakery items, coffee, Wi-Fi Key CD $ 3 $ 3 $ ICEHOUSE LOUNGE 4 W. U.S. 6 219-462-8415 Food, drinks and pool tables (21 & older) LD N C $ INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION EATERY & GRILLE 1084 Linwood Ave. 219-465-1801 industrialrevolutioneatery.com Pot roast, brick oven pizza, perch, tacos, red, white & blue cheesecake LD N N C $ IRONWOOD BREWING CO. 6 Roosevelt Rd. 219-405-4644 ironwoodbrewing.beer A craft brewery for people looking for good beers S N LD LD N C N BL LD N C N J&J’S PIZZA SHACK 1454 W. Lincolnway 219-476-1616 jjspizzashack.com Lunch & dinner LD N CD $$ JOHNNY BOYS 2007 Calumet Ave. 219-548-8400 Find us on Facebook Sandwiches, hot dogs, gyros, burgers and breakfast. BL D N CD $ D N C $$$ KING GYROS 1610 E. Lincolnway 219-464-2010 Huge gyros and sandwiches, and other filling, inexpensive food LD N C $ LA CABANA 807 E. Lincolnway 219-510-5587 Mexican food with great ambiance inside or on outdoor patio LD N C $$ LA PATRONA AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE 657 Washington St. 219-707-5597 Find us on Facebook Authentic Mexican favorites. Outdoor seating. BL D N C $ LE PEEP 3800 N. Calumet Ave. 219-242-8968 lepeep.com Legendary breakfasts & lunches BL N C $ N C $$ C $ CD $$ C $$ LD N LD N DISH RESTAURANT 3907 N. Calumet Ave. 219-465-9221 dishrestaurant.net Gourmet salads, sandwiches, pastas, steaks & sweets, prv. din. rm. LD DOG HOUSE, THE 2802 N. Calumet Ave. 219-464-4018 costascompanies.com Vienna beef drive-through with dining patio LD CD CD N C N C JADE GARDEN 3022 N. Calumet Ave. 219-464-9860 Chinese cuisine $$ JIMMY’S CAFÉ 55 S. Michigan Ave. 219-462-9167 Breakfast & daily specials $$ $ $ KELSEY’S STEAK HOUSE 2300 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-465-4022 kelseyssteakhouse.com Prime rib & steaks $$$ $ N C L DS N C $ DYNASTY BUFFET 1805 E. Lincolnway 219-548-8817 Chinese cuisine in a buffet style atmosphere LD N C $ LD EL AMIGO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 3032 N. Calumet Ave. 219-531-5606 Authentic Mexican cuisine LD N MAIN + LINCOLN 210 E. Lincolnway 219-510-5548 mainandlincoln.com Traditional and new cuisine from all America’s cultures C $ BL D EL SALTO 3530 N. Calumet Ave. 219-462-0100 elsaltorestaurant.com Authentic Mexican cuisine LD N MALDEN OASIS 394 State Road 49 219-462-2337 Serving burgers and other tasty food for lunch and dinner, plus breakfast on weekends C $ L DS FIGURE EIGHT BREWING 150 S. Washington St. 219-477-2000 figure8brewing.com Eleven different craft brews, root beer, family-friendly food menu LD N MARGARITA’S BAR & GRILL 21 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8160 margaritasbarandgrill.com Warm hospitality, mouthwatering cuisine and tasty margaritas C $ MARTINIS 1004 Calumet Ave. 219-464-0801 martinisinvalpo.com Steak & Seafood, live entertainment DON QUIJOTE RESTAURANT 119 E. Lincolnway 219-462-7976 donquijotevalpo.com Authentic Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine LD DUFFY’S PLACE 1154 Axe Ave. 219-462-1057 duffysplace.com Bar & grill, entertainment, just west of Valparaiso University 52 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE $$$ 3 $ C $$ $ C 3 3 $ $ 3 3 Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille Born out of a passion to create a bold, unique and exciting restaurant theme, the Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille fuses the finest handcrafted comfort cuisine with an atmosphere that pays tribute to the American spirit of innovation and greatness. • • • • All-American starters Gourmet Industrial burgers Brick oven pizzas Sandwiches • • • • Soups & salads Revolutionary originals Desserts Bar list Hours: Sunday - Thursday: 11am - 9pm Friday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm Address: 1084 Linwood Ave., Valparaiso, IN 4638 Phone: 219-465-1801 Web: industrialrevolutioneatery.com ADVERTISEMENT Round The Clock Restaurant Restaurante don Quijote Fall in love with the cuisine and hospitality of España. Since 1985 Voted #1 Breakfast, Lunch and Family Restaurant! What panache! What sheer dining joy! Restaurante don Quijote, an area staple since 1985, is often hailed as Indiana’s best Spanish restaurant. The menu overflows with Iberian specialties like paella, pinchos morunos and cordero asado. Add an unhurried atmosphere, flawless service and the warm hospitality of chefs Carlos Rivero and Elena Jambrina for a dining experience that will make you feel like a culinary conquistado. Find us on the web: roundtheclockrestaurants.com Find us on Facebook. Address: 1607 S. Calumet Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9900 Address: 217 E. Lincolnway Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6339 ADVERTISEMENT Address: 119 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 (downtown Valpo) Phone: 219-462-7976 Web : donquijotevalpo.com ADVERTISEMENT SWEETS TOP 10 1. Designer Desserts: draws people from all around for the dozens of delicious daily cupcake flavors. 56 W. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, 219-465-0008, designerdessertsbakery.com 2. Valpo Velvet Ice Cream: The 70 different flavors are made onsite and are famous far and wide. 55-57 Monroe St., Valparaiso, 219-464-414, valpovelvet.com 3. Essential downtown Valparaiso: Kernels and Kones/Kim’s Specialty Chocolates: Stock up on popcorn, ice cream and candy. 56 Indiana Ave., Valparaiso, 219-299-2940, on Facebook Pat’s Ice Cream Parlor serves super-premium Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream from Wisconsin. 222 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, 219-462-5613, on Facebook South Bend Chocolate Company sells individual chocolates and gift boxes. 57 Franklin St., Valparaiso, 219-477-4418, sbchocolate.com Little Chocolates has made-from-scratch turtles, caramels, truffles and more. 113 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, 219-369-6430, on Facebook P I G G I E S A N D C R E A M AT T H E D E P OT 54 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE E LV E T VA L P O V AM ICE CRE 4. Simply Amazing Market: Gourmet popcorn and fudge made here is delicious and the proceeds help the disabled. 2801 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, 219-476-1907, simplyamazingtreats.com 5. North of downtown Valparaiso: Evolution Artisan Confections has chocolates, pastries and desserts that are as beautiful as they are delicious. 901 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, 219-707-7013, evolutionartisanconfections.com Henze’s Bakery is the place for doughnuts, pastries and pies. 2105 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, 219-464-1511, on Facebook Nancy’s Cake Appeal has cupcakes, cookies, brownies and mini pies. 4405 Calumet Ave., Valparaiso, 219-464-9880, facebook.com/nancyscakeappeal THE FLO WER CART HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM SWEETVILLE BY DESIGNER DESSERTS 6. Molly Bea’s Ingredients: Featuring an extensive selection of chocolate and other candy. 761 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton, 219-983-9401, mollybeas.com 7. Downtown delights in Chesterton: Sweetville featuring Designer Desserts has the awesome cupcakes from Designer Desserts as well as cookies, candy and fudge. 201 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, 219-728-6154, on Facebook Dog Days Ice Cream Parlor has gelato, sorbetto and super-premium ice cream. 123 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, 219-707-6093, dogdaysicecream.com Chesterton Cake Shoppe makes great cakes, as well as cupcakes and cookies. 139 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, 219-921-0303, chestertoncakeshoppe.com The Flower Cart has tasty fudge and candy. 145 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, 219-926-8615 EVOLUT ION AR TISA N CONF ECT M O L LY B E A’ S I N G R E D I E N T S 8. Perfection in Portage: Dari-Dip has delicious soft-serve cones and shakes. 5469 Central Ave., Portage, 219-763-7002, on Facebook Marsha’s Sweet Stuff delights with cupcakes, muffins, cookies, tarts and more. 2612 Portage Mall, Portage, 219-789-0723, marshassweetstuff.com 9. Deliciousness in Kouts: Piggies and Cream at the Depot makes its own ice cream, often with local ingredients. 104 Railroad St., Kouts, 219-766-0263, birkyfarms.com Birky’s Market & Bakery has baked goods and, when Piggies and Cream closes in the winter, sells pints of their ice cream. 205 S. Main St., Kouts, 219-766-3851, birkyfarms.com 10. Frozen Yogurt: YoAmazing Yogurt Shop features a dozen flavors and countless toppings. 2620 LaPorte Ave., Valparaiso, 219-462-9696 FRO PLAY Frozen Yogurt offers gourmet yogurts and toppings. 605 McCord Rd., Valparaiso, 219-229-6113, on Facebook IONS S I M P LY AMAZIN G MARK ET -Accessible, N-Non Smoking C-Carry Out D-Delivery $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) SOUTH BEND CHOCOLATE COMPANY 57 S. Franklin St. 219-477-4418 sbchocolate.com Great coffee, food and, of course, chocolate BL DS N C $ $ STACKS BAR AND GRILL 175 Lincolnway 219-462-0553 Find us on Facebook Great food, craft beers, wine, outdoor dining D N C $$ BLD N C $ CD $$ N C $$ NEW DRAGON 1615 N. Calumet Ave. 219-476-9222 Chinese take-out LD N C NOODLES & COMPANY 71 Silhavy Rd. 219-548-0921 noodles.com Delicious noodle dishes, soups, salads and sandwiches LD N C Café Ethnic Dining Pizza Valparaiso (cont.) NORTHSIDE BAR & GRILL 712 N. Calumet Ave. 219-465-0885 Neighborhood Bar & Grill Find us on Facebook D Valparaiso (cont.) $ 3 STEAK ‘N SHAKE 1251 Strongbow Center (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-465-4014 steaknshake.com Steak burgers, chili, milkshakes and more $$ 3 SUREFIRE SMOKEHOUSE RESTAURANT 2103 N. Calumet Ave. 219-465-8810 surefirefoodgroup.com Barbeque specialties, pizza, sandwiches, salads LD N $$ SUZIE’S CAFÉ & CATERING 1050 Southpoint Dr. 219-462-5500 Find us on Facebook Great breakfast, lunch and baked goods BL N $$ T.G.I. FRIDAY’S 81 Silhavy Rd. 219-462-0302 tgifridays.com Enjoy ribs, shrimp, steaks, burgers, pasta & more LD N C $$ $$ THE MARKET 2405 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-531-0162 themarketvalpo.com An amazing eatery, bar and event venue LD N C $$ OLD STYLE INN 5 Lincolnway 219-462-5600 oldstyleinn.com Steak, seafood, pasta (kids can dine on patio, 18 with adult inside) LD N PAREA 69 S. Franklin St. 219-510-5428 parearestaurant.com Steak and seafood LD N PEPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT 1058 S. State Road 2 219-465-0205 pepes.com Tasty Mexican food with all its authentic flavors LD N PESTO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3123 Calumet Ave. 219-462-0993 pestos.net Italian entrées & desserts, full bar, meeting room LD N PETEY’S CITY GRILL 255 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-548-2233 peteyscitygrill.com Gyros, burgers, wings and salads LD N CD $ TOMATO BAR PIZZA BAKERY 2310 LaPorte Ave. 219-462-7499 tomatobarpizza.com Stone-baked pizza, calzones, salads, hoagies, craft beer LD N C $ PHIL B’S CAFÉ 908 Roosevelt Rd. #E 219-548-3100 Breakfast and lunch Find us on Facebook BL N C $ TOMMY B’S CLUBHOUSE 210 Aberdeen Drive, Unit B 219-299-8936 Find us on Facebook Spirits, sports, sandwiches and pizza LD N C $ PIKK’S TAVERN 62 W. Lincolnway 219-476-7455 pikkstavern.com Steaks, chops, dinner only, lunch Fri..-Sun. LD N TOMMY B’S STEAKHOUSE 13 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8093 Find us on Facebook Steaks, sushi, pasta. Modern fine dining LD N C $$ PIZZA HUT 2510 LaPorte Ave. 219-465-6500 pizzahut.com Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts LD N C $ TONY’S PLACE 218 E. Lincolnway 219-464-1018 tonysplacepizza.com Italian cuisine and pizza. Family owned since 1955. Unique decor D N C $ RED ROBIN 3004 John Howell Dr. 219-531-7337 redrobin.com Serving gourmet burgers since 1969 LD N C $ UPTOWN CAFÉ 1400 Lincolnway 219-246-2526 uptowncafevalpo.com Specialty coffee, tea, soda bar BL DS N CD $$ ROOTS ORGANIC JUICE CAFÉ 108 E. Lincolnway 219-510-0002 rootsorganicjuicecafe.com Organic juices, smoothies, soups, salads and bakery items BL DS N C $ D N C $$ ROLLING STONEBAKER 54 Lafayette St. 219-246-0068 rollingstonebaker.com Renowned pizza truck’s brick and mortar site LD N VALLEY KITCHEN & BAR 55 S. Franklin St. 219-531-8888 eatvalley.com A farm to fork kitchen and bar using natural, local food to make fresh, delicious meals C $ N C $ BL D N LD S ROUND THE CLOCK RESTAURANT 217 E. Lincolnway 219-462-6339 roundtheclockrestaurants.com American, Greek, Italian, cuisine & homemade pastries VALPO VELVET ICE CREAM 55-57 W. Monroe St. 219-464-4141 valpovelvet.com Locally-made gourmet ice cream (60+ flavors), sandwiches & soups C $ LD N C $ RUDY’S BBQ SHACK 1305 N. Calumet Ave. facebook.com/RudysAppleMountainBBQ Enjoy Texas BBQ with Carolina/St. Louis influences LD N VALPO VIENNAS 3 Napoleon St. 219-299-2592 Find us on Facebook Hot dogs, Polish, brats, Italian beef, homemade potato chips CD $$ VERONA PIZZA 1689 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-465-3737 veronapizza7.com Great pizza and the best beef sandwiches LD N CD $ SCHOOP’S HAMBURGERS 2816 N. Calumet Ave. 219-464-2996 valposchoops.com Hamburgers & full-service breakfast. Non-smoking BL DS C $ VIKING CHILI BOWL 105 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30) 219-462-0800 Breakfast & lunch Find us on Facebook BL N C $ SEMENTO’S NAPOLI CAFÉ 1200 West St. 219-548-9046 sementos.com Ribs, prime rib, dinners, big sandwiches LD C $$ WINGS ETC. RESTAURANT & PUB 501 N. Silhavy Rd. 219-464-7250 wingsetc.com Sports, beer and jumbo wings, burgers, wraps, seafood & salads LD N C $ SERRANO’S MEXICAN GRILL 3125 N. Calumet Ave. 219-286-6996 serranosmexgrill.com A Mexican grill featuring south of the border favorites LD N C $ LD N C $ SHOE’S PIZZERIA 3300 N. Calumet Ave. 219-476-7463 shoespizzeria.com Pizza, toasted subs, salads, appetizers & wings LD N 56 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE C C $$ C $$ 3 21 & Over B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks $ LD S Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining 21 & Over $$ $($1-10) $$($10-20), $$$($20+) C C-Carry Out D-Delivery N -Accessible, N-Non Smoking BL D B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner S-Snacks SILVER SPOON, THE 15 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8035 silverspoonvalpo.com Intimate restaurant & bar, outdoor dining, weekend entertainment. MEDITRINA MARKET CAFE 24 N. Washington St. 219-707-5271 meditrina-market-cafe.com Mediterranean/ethnic cuisine Key $ Wheeler SECOND STREET BAR & GRILL 201 Railroad Ave. 219-759-0011 Hometown bar & grill favorites 3 HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM ASK A LOCAL Beth Rutherford of Beverly Shores knows her stuff when it comes to dining in Indiana Dunes Country. She lets you in on her recommendations for any occasion. Where do you go for a girl’s night? Valley in downtown Valparaiso. O C TAV E GRILL When your friends come to town, what are the top three places you take them? • Rolling Stonebaker for pizza near the corner of 12 and Broadway, then soft serve ice cream at Janssen’s Marathon Market. • To get a coffee and sandwich at Red Cup. • A late dinner or glass of beer/wine at Stacks. Best single dish or drink? • Sacchetti (little purses) at Lucrezia… I CAN’T get anything else! • Dirty Goose Martini at Bartlett’s. No explanation needed. BARTLET T’S GOU RMET GRILL & TAV E R N What are your favorite restaurants, and why? • Lemon Tree in Chesterton, fun to have a “Mediterranean style” Chipotle. • Musashi Japanese, truly exceptional sushi and sake, good noodle dishes for those who don’t want sushi. • Octave Grill, tiny space but good drinks and food. • Le Peep, wonderful for breakfast and brunch. • Sunrise Café for breakfast, just don’t go on Mother’s Day! Best fine dining place? Meditrina, the ambiance is lovely and every dish is a treasure. MEDITRI NA MARK ET CAFE Latitudes Waterfront Dining & Events Overlooking the harbor at Marina Shores, Latitudes offers indoor and outdoor fine and casual dining and events. Enjoy the laid-back ambiance of dining along the water in our formal dining room, the casual sense of our Starboard room or the kick-your-feet-up casual feel of the Beach House, all hosting full-service bars. Featuring Catch & Cook Bring in your fresh, cleaned catch of the day and the chef will cook it for you personally. Hours: Hours and menus change seasonally Open year round–Open to the public Address: 5987 Dune Harbor Dr. Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219 -841-9570 Web: LatitudesAtMarinaShores.com ADVERTISEMENT Butler Winery Located in a charming bungalow at the corner of 4th and Broadway, Butler Winery’s Chesterton Tasting room offers wine for tasting, purchase or enjoyment in tranquil outdoor garden or intimate indoor table space. The quaint shop also features gifts and wine accessories. Address: 401 Broadway Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-929-1400 Web: butlerwinery.com ADVERTISEMENT PIZZAS TOP 10 Local pizzerias duked it out to see who reigned supreme in the “Pizza Wars.” Here are our winners. Now that’s amore! (Locate these pizzerias through the listings starting on page 47) 1. Duneland Pizza, Chesterton: Chesterton’s oldest, family-owned pizzeria specializes in five styles of crusts and 25 different toppings, sure to please all types of pizza lovers. 2. Rolling Stonebaker, Beverly Shores & Valparaiso: Operating out of antique Studebaker trucks and a storefront, they offer farm-to-table freshness, creative recipes and thin crusts lightly charred by a wood-fired oven. 3. Tomato Bar Pizza Bakery, Valparaiso: They use world-class Grande cheeses, San Marzano tomatoes and house-made dough. All of their pies are tossed in an openair kitchen and baked to order in a stone oven. 4. Greek’s Pizzeria, Valparaiso: For over 40 years, they have served up hand-tossed traditional and gourmet pizzas in flavors such as the bruschetta, Calabrese and Texas BBQ. 58 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | DINING & NIGHTLIFE HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 5. AJ’s Pizza, Chesterton: Unique offerings include the Hawaiian Delite, the Chicken Fajita Pizza and a delicious Italian beef pizza. All ingredients are prepared daily. 6. Shoe’s Pizzeria, Valparaiso: They feature New York-style pizza, hand tossed with fresh dough made in house and baked to bubbly perfection in a stone-deck oven. 7. Tony’s Place, Valparaiso: With origins in Naples, Italy, their menu features Tony’s original and deep dish pizzas, and the finest Italian dishes. Thousands of guests, including celebrities, have enjoyed Tony’s. 8. Gelsosomo’s Pizzeria, Portage: Born into an Italian family, Tom Gelsosomo has always loved great Italian food. He takes great pride in offering delicious pizzas. 9. Cappo’s Casual Dining, Portage: Its gourmet pizzas include the unique spinach alfredo, sweet BBQ pork and Dolly’s favorite (with a seasoned olive oil base, pepperoni, onions, pepperoncini and pineapple). 10. Salvoras Pizza, South Haven: This family-owned carryout and delivery pizzeria uses fresh ingredients and doesn’t skimp on the toppings. Check out the area’s top restaurants in the Midwest Living Culinary Tour. www.indianadunes. com/destination-guides/ electronic-guides/ SHOPPING CHESTERTON‘S EUROPEAN MARKET MARKETS Central Park Plaza Market Produce, sweets and more. Tuesdays and Saturdays, June – October Hours: Tuesday 8am – 2pm; Saturday 8am – 12pm Address: Lincolnway and Lafayette Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone 219-464-8332 Web: valparaisoevents.com Chesterton’s European Market Produce, treats, jewelry, art. Saturdays, May – October Hours: 8am – 2pm Address: Broadway and Third Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5513 Web: chestertonseuropeanmarket.com COUNT Y LINE ORCHA RD County Line Orchard U-pick apples, pumpkin patch, hayrides, petting zoo, corn mazes. Hours: 8am – 6pm daily in Sept. and Oct. Address: 200 S. County Line Rd., Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-947-4477 Web: countylineorchard.com Johnson’s Farm Produce Berries, sweet corn and more. Hours: See website Address: 718 W. U.S. 30, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-759-6359 Web: johnsonsfarmproduce.com Sanders Farm Raw milk, eggs, honey, cheese, meat, pumpkins and corn stalks. Hours: Daily, 8 – 10am (except Sunday mornings) and 3 – 5:30pm; closed holidays Address: 3 E. 900 North (Meridian and 900 North), Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3230 CENTRA L PA R K PLAZA M ARKET ANTIQUES Dune Antiques Find vintage cottage and cabin furnishings, including rustic hickory furniture, as well as art, lighting and interior design. Hours: April to November Friday – Sunday 10am – 5pm Address: 4944 W. U.S. 12 (Dunes Highway), Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-879-2368 Web: duneantiques.blogspot.com Goodbyes This business acquires entire estates and brings antiques, furniture, and more to its store. Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 10am – 5pm Address: 104 S. Main St., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-3312 Web: Find us on Facebook Green Garage Rescued furniture, housewares and surprise finds abound in this shop. Hours: Tuesday – Thursday 10am – 5pm; Friday 10am – 6pm; Saturday 9am – 4pm; Sunday noon – 4pm Address: 209 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-545-6768 Web: facebook.com/ greengaragechesterton HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Kathy’s Antiques An upscale dealer of fine antiques and jewelry. Appraiser on staff. Hours: Tuesday – Saturday 10am – 4pm Address: 1599 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1400 Katie’s Antiques This antiquing destination, housed in a historic mansion, features furniture, porcelain and ivory. Hours: Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am – 4pm; Sunday 12 – 4pm Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday by chance or by appointment (off-hours number 219-464-2566) Address: 219 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5559 Marc T. Nielsen Interiors and Antique Shop Find antiques from many cultures, including Asian and European items, art, light fixtures and more. Hours: Monday – Thursday 9am – 4:30pm; Friday – Sunday by appointment Address: 734 Old Suman Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-9812 Web: marctnielseninteriors.com O’Gara and Wilson Ltd. Antiquarian Booksellers This shop buys and sells books, and deals in book-related collectibles and antiques, autographs, art and photos. Hours: See website for hours Address: 223 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-1326 Web: ogaraandwilson.com Old Farm House Antiques This store has furniture, clocks, glassware, flow blue, pottery, primitives, china, vintage clothing and collectibles. Hours: Monday and Thursday – Saturday 10am – 2:30pm; Sunday noon – 2:30pm; Tuesday and Wednesday by chance Address: 409 S. Main St., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-5329 Ransomed Blessings Repurposed furniture, decor, upscale gifts and seasonal gifts. Hours: 10am – 5:30pm Wednesday-Saturday Address: 256 W. Indiana Ave., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-286-2848 Web: facebook.com/ Ransomedblessings Resawn Relics Taking vintage and antique pieces to create original pieces, they also recover barn and bowling alley wood to make furniture. Hours: 10am – 3pm Tuesday-Saturday Address: 1505 Calumet Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-552-1870 Web: resawnrelics.com Russ & Barb’s Antiques Discover jewelry, art, pottery, china and decorative glass. Winter Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 4:30pm Summer Hours: Monday – Sunday 10am – 5pm Address: 222 Lincoln Ave., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4937 Society Vintage antiques, artisan goods, industrial furniture and accessories, clothing, jewelry. Hours: See Facebook page Address: 109 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-476-0744 Web: Find us on Facebook Spill the Milk Vintage Features vintage do-ityourself materials, furniture, salvage and home décor. Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 6pm; Saturday 10am – 5pm; Sunday 11am – 5pm Address: 3152 W. Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30), Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-286-3955 Web: spillthemilkvintage.com The eState The spot for high-end collectibles, WW II and Civil War memorabilia, pottery, crystal, and jewelry sales and repair. Hours: Monday – Friday 10am – 5:30pm; Saturday 10am – 2pm Summer and holiday hours may vary Address: 3101 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-4316 Web: Find us on Facebook Yesterday’s Treasures Antique Mall & Artisan Gallery Enjoy 20,000 square feet of heirloom antiques, furniture, hand crafted artisanship, books, jewelry, glass, pipes, watches and vinyl records from 70 vendors. Hours: Monday, Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm; Sunday noon – 5pm Address: 700 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-2268 Web: chestertonantiquemall.com URES ERY TREAS ISAN GALL S ’ Y A RT RD YESTE E MALL & A U Q I ANT Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 61 ART GALLERIES Air One Photography Aerial and panoramic photos of the Indiana Dunes, Chicago and more, plus posters and gifts. Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 5pm Address: 23 Washington St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1182 Web: aironephoto.com Chesterton Art Center Art on exhibit and for sale, arts classes and gift shop. Hours: Monday – Friday 11am – 4pm; Saturday – Sunday 1 – 4pm Address: 115 S. 4th St., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4711 Web: chestertonart.com Framing Concepts Gallery Custom framing and magnificent pieces for sale. Hours: Tuesday – Friday 10am – 5pm; Saturday 10am – 3pm Address: 219 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-6000 Web: framingconceptsonline.com Holly Jackson Studio Find lively, innovative and colorful works inspired by the Indiana Dunes area. Hours: Wednesday – Saturday 10am – 5pm or by appointment Address: 103 S. 2nd St., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-8290 Web: facebook.com/ HollyJacksonArtist Show us the unique things you found. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond 62 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SHOPPING Lifestyles On the ground floor, find jewelry, toys, kitchenware, gourmet foods, garden items, greeting cards and collectibles. Upstairs, find wall art, sculptures and furniture. Hours: Monday – Saturday 9am – 7pm Address: 122 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-9167 Web: valpolifestyles.com The Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery Housed in the iconic Beverly Shores train station, this museum tells the community’s history and has an ever-rotating display of art in its gallery, as well as a gift shop. Hours: May – Oct. Friday – Sunday 11am – 3pm (reception 5 – 7pm second Friday of each month May to Oct.) 4th of July to Labor Day Monday 11am – 3pm Address: 525 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-250-2290 The Ellen Firme Gallery The exhibits include photography, paintings, sculptures and prints. Purchase handmade greeting cards and the various works of art. Opening reception is 5 – 8pm on the second Friday of each month. Gallery shares the building with the Glenn L. Firme art supply store. Hours: Monday – Friday 10 – 5pm; Saturday 10am – 4pm; call for Sun. hours Address: 92 W. U.S. 12, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-874-4003 Web: facebook.com/leo.firme.33 or firmeartofficesupply.com Valparaiso University Brauer Museum of Art Wander through seven galleries filled with selections from the museum’s permanent collection of more than 3,500 paintings, photographs, sculptures and more. The museum owns the largest known collection of works by Junius R. Sloan (1827-1900), a Hudson River School painter who lived and worked in the Midwest, and also owns a fantastic array of world religious art and American art from the 19th, 20th and 21st centuries. Hours: Tuesday, Thursday – Friday 10am – 5pm; Wednesday 10am – 8:30pm; Saturday – Sunday 12 – 5pm Address: Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-5365 Web: valpo.edu/artmuseum White Key Gallery The gallery, located in a more than 125-year-old Victorian building, features everything from paintings to wood, glass, paper and metal art. Several different artists’ works are featured. Hours: Tuesday – Wednesday 1 – 5pm; Thursday – Friday 1 – 7pm; Saturday 10am – 2pm Address: 404 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-221-8461 Web: whitekeygallery.com CKSON H O L LY J A STUDIO Dune Clothiers at the Schoolhouse Shop The essence of Dune Clothiers at the Schoolhouse Shop is to present affordable, quality clothing and accessories for both women and men who appreciate the lifestyle indigenous to coastal Lake Michigan. Hours: Monday–Friday 10am–5pm; Sunday 11am–5pm (closed Tuesdays and closed every February, all month) Address: 278 E. 1500 North (at Furnessville), Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5001 Web: duneclothiers.com Molly Bea’s Ingredients We enhance your culinary experience with our exceptional quality bulk foods. Prepare to get recipe ideas as soon as you step foot in the store. At Molly Bea’s INGREDIENTS, whether you love to cook, bake, or eat, you’ll find 600 ingredients in bulk bins, from flours to pastas, spices, nuts, seeds and trail mixes. Not to mention exotic coffees and teas, soups and a fantastic licorice selection. Those with a sweet tooth will be entranced by the enormous assortment of chocolates and sugary snacks. There is everything you need for gluten free baking. They carry organic, kosher, vegan and gluten free items. ADVERTISEMENT Seasons on the Square Women’s clothing and accessory boutique in vibrant downtown Valparaiso. We invite you to shop Seasons on the Square, for unique fashion and personalized attention, in a welcoming atmosphere. Let us put the “WOW” in your wardrobe! Featuring Joseph Ribkoff, Frank Lyman, Eileen Fisher, Brighton, and much more. Like us on Facebook! Hours: Monday–Thursday 10am–6pm, Friday – Saturday 10am–5pm, Sunday noon –4pm Address: 761 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9401 Web: mollybeas.com ADVERTISEMENT Hours: Monday–Friday 10am– 5:30pm; Saturday 10am–4pm Address: 1 Lincolnway (downtown) Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 Phone: 219-465-0165 Web: seasonsonthesquare.com ADVERTISEMENT Chesterton’s European Market Yesterday’s Treasures Antique Mall & Artisan Gallery Our European Market provides a strong tradition of quality shopping, live entertainment and a festive community experience in the heart of historic downtown Chesterton. Our artists, chefs, merchants and farmers travel to our market from across Indiana, Michigan and Illinois to offer visitors an extraordinary collection of products and services. Follow us on Facebook! Come get lost in 20,000 square feet of unique and vintage items. Our 70+ vendors are constantly updating their wares. Whether you are looking for heirloom antiques, mid-century furniture and accessories, hand crafted artisanship, vintage jewelry, quality used and rare books, vinyl records, glassware, vintage pipes and watches, or just a walk down “memory lane”—make Yesterday’s Treasures your destination. Just 2 miles from I-94 & IN-49! Like us on Facebook. Address: 220 Broadway Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5513 Web: chestertonseuropeanmarket.com Hours: Monday–Saturday 10am–5pm Sunday noon-5pm (closed Tuesdays) Address: 700 Broadway, Chesterton, Indiana 46304 Phone: 219-926-2268 Web: ChestertonAntiqueMall.com PHOTO: JULIE BRAVEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT LOCALLY MADE 3 1. Popcorn and fudge at Simply Amazing Market, 2801 Evans Ave., Valparaiso, 219-464-9621, simplyamazingtreats.com 2. Produce, honey, treats, jewelry, art at Chesterton’s European Market, Broadway and Third Street, Chesterton, 219-926-5513, chestertonseuropeanmarket.com 64 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SHOPPING Find affordable, one-of-a-kind souvenirs and gifts made right here in Indiana Dunes Country. 2 1 4 3. Aerial and panoramic photos, posters at Air One Aerial Photography, 23 Washington St., Valparaiso, 219-4621182, aironephoto.com 4. Baseball bats at Hoosier Bat Company, 312 N. 325 East, Valparaiso., 219-5311006, hoosierbat.com Visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center (page 72) or Camp Stop (page 17) for more great souvenirs! HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM 5 7 5. Doll clothes and accessories at Ciao Bambino, 501 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, 219-617-4345, ciaobambinobaby.com 6. Concrete statues and décor at Saylor Basket Place, 1300 W. U.S. 20, Porter, 219-926-1599, Find us on Facebook 8 7. Bison hides, leather items, jerky at Broken Wagon Bison Farm, 563 W. 450 North, Hobart, 219-7593523, brokenwagonbison.com 8. Purses, jewelry, blankets, home décor, art, dishes at She’s Crafty Unique Boutique, 18 E. Jefferson St., Valparaiso, 219-617-0773 6 MORE GREAT LOCAL STUFF: • Beach glass jewelry at stephanieswanson.biz • Beautifully unconventional furniture at dustfurniture.com • Soaps and candles at scentedseasons.com • Dunes photos at dunelandpizza.com Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 65 EVENTS There’s always something to do in Indiana Dunes Country. Take a look at these event highlights for 2016. Make sure to pick up a copy of our Calendar of Events at the Visitor Center or download yours now at: indianadunes.com/ destination-guides/ MARCH 28 – APRIL 2, 2016 Valparaiso University Jazz Fest Enjoy nationally-renowned entertainers and local performers in a week-long tribute to jazz. Show times vary. Valparaiso University Harre Union 1509 Chapel Dr., Valparaiso, IN 219-464-5415 or 877-698-8849 valpo.edu/union/events Ticket prices vary by concert. Some free concerts available MAY 5 – 8, 2016 Indiana Dunes Birding Festival Celebrate the amazing spring migration with bird watching, live bird programs and young birder activities. 6am – 8pm Indiana Dunes area sites 219-926-1390 indunesbirdingfestival.com See website for registration SATURDAYS, MAY 7 – OCT. 29, 2016 Visit indianadunes.com/events for the latest events. 66 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | EVENTS Chesterton’s European Market At this open-air market, you’ll find artisan breads and pastries, gourmet foods, fresh produce, jewelry, art, clothing, gifts, onthe-go lunches and more. Enjoy live entertainment 10am-1pm. 8am – 2pm Downtown Chesterton Third Street and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 219-926-5513 chestertonseuropeanmarket.com Free admission JULY 9, 2016 Sand Sculpture Contest Carve your best sand sculpture or see others’ creations. 9am – 1pm Indiana Dunes State Park 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of U.S. 12) 219-926-1390 in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Participation/viewing free after paying standard park gate fee JULY 21 – 30, 2016 Porter County Fair Enjoy grandstand and grounds entertainment, livestock, food and more. Mon. – Fri.: 1–10pm; Sat – Sun: 10am – 10pm Porter County Fairgrounds 217 E. Division Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 219-462-0321 portercountyfair.com $5 adults/children 9 and under free/ 10-punch pass $40 AUG. 6 – 7, 2016 Chesterton Art Fair Juried art fair with 100 artists from 15 states, children’s booth and music. 10am – 5pm Hawthorne Park 405 Waverly Rd., Porter, IN 46304 219-926-4711 chestertonart.com $5 adults/children 12 and under free AUG. 27, 2016 Kouts Pork Fest This pork-centric event includes 5K run, parade, entertainment, food, arts & crafts booths and more. 8am – evening Downtown Kouts State Road 8 and State Road 49, Kouts, IN 46347 219-766-0720 koutsevents.com/porkfest Free admission AUG. 27 – 28, 2016 Aukiki River Festival Step back in time to a day filled with events unique to this spot and set from the mid 1700s through the 1930s. French voyageur and Native American re-enactors. Learn about equipment used to hunt, trap and trade along the Kankakee River. 9am – 4pm Kankakee Valley Historical Society Grounds 1099 Baums Bridge Rd., Kouts, IN 46347 219-766-2302 kankakeevalleyhistoricalsociety.org Free admission SEPT. 10, 2016 Popcorn Festival Honoring native son Orville Redenbacher, this festival offers more than 200 food and arts & crafts booths, kids’ games, the five-mile Popcorn Panic race and the Popcorn Parade. 7am – 6:30pm Downtown Valparaiso 219-464-8332 valparaisoevents.com Free admission OCT. 1 – 31, 2016 Amhurst Asylum Haunted Attraction Prepare to be frightened in this 23,000 square foot, all-indoor haunted house designed by two people who have a combined 20 years of experience in haunted houses and horror movies. Sun, Thu & Halloween: 7-10pm Fri. & Sat: 7 – 11pm Amhurst Asylum 228 South 500 West, Valparaiso, IN 46385 888-813-4571 amhurstasylum.com $20 general admission OCT. 8 – 9, 2016 Elvis Fest Bop it up at the sock hop, meet special guests who once worked with Elvis, cheer on Elvis tribute artists and eat like Elvis. Woodland Park Community Building 2100 Willowcreek Rd., Portage, IN 46368 317-844-7354 elvisfantasyfest.com Ticket prices vary DEC. 3 – 4 Annual Kouts Christmas Open House Visit about 40 homes, churches and restaurants in the Kouts area and find unique crafts and homemade baked goods for sale. Sat: 8:30am – 4:30pm; Sun: 10am – 4:30pm Various locations in and around Kouts Locations vary—maps available at intersection of State Road 8 and State Road 49 219-766-3791 koutsevents.com Free admission Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 67 FALL DRIVES These drives are enjoyable year round, but are especially beautiful in the fall. One takes drivers past the dunes and lake, while the other features charming downtowns and winding country roads. THE DUNES & LAKE Drive tree-lined roadways and then watch as Lake Michigan and the sand dunes appear before you. You’ll also pass historic homes, marshland that explodes with color and great places to stop for a scenic hike. Start at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN Turn right onto State Road 49 North .8 mi DOWNTOWNS & COUNTRY ROADS This drive takes you through the charming downtowns of Chesterton and Valparaiso, both lined with great restaurants and shops. You’ll also pass several parks where you can enjoy a fall stroll. Then wind your way back on fun, scenic country roads. Start at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN urn left to take the U.S. 12 exit, then T bear right and take eastbound US 12 3.2 mi Turn left onto State Road 49 South Turn left onto East State Park Road/300 East 1.2 mi Turn right onto Indian Boundary Road .4 mi Turn left on Calumet Road (Stop at Thomas Centennial Park and the historic downtown at Calumet and Broadway for shopping and dining or continue to the next turn) .7 mi Turn right on Porter Ave, on which you will see the historic Brown Mansion/Westchester Township History Museum .7 mi urn right on Lakefront Drive (Parking available on T East State Park Road and Lakefront Drive if you want to stop for a walk on the beach, a picnic at Lake View Picnic Area & Beach Access or walk past the Century of Progress Homes) .8 mi Turn right on Broadway .5 mi Turn left on Beverly Drive Turn right on Lake Shore County Road (Merrivale) urn right on U.S. 12 West T You’ll pass Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill & Tavern (great food and drinks) and Campstop (bike rentals) 1.2 mi .7 mi 5.4 mi Turn left and get onto the ramp to State Road 49 urn left onto State Road 49 North to go to Indiana T Dunes State Park for a fall hike or drive the scenic road from the entrance to Wilson Shelter r turn right on State Road 49 South and return to O the Visitor Center or continue on State Road 49 South and enjoy a walk at Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve or see its beauty from your car 68 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SEASONS .7 mi 4.7 mi 1.2 mi Turn left on 11th Street/Meridian Road/ Campbell Street. You’ll pass Sunset Hill Farm County Park, Rogers Lakewood Park and Ogden Gardens, all of which are great places for a fall walk 9.5 mi Turn left on Lincolnway and enjoy downtown Valparaiso, with the Orville Redenbacher statue in Central Park, shopping and dining. Continue straight at the roundabout to take LaPorte Ave./ State Road 2 east out of the city 4.6 mi Turn left on 400 East 2.3 mi Turn left on 600 North 1.0 mi Turn right on 300 East/Old Suman/350 East (Note that halfway along this winding road, you come to U.S. Highway 6 and can turn right and travel for .8 mile on U.S. Highway 6 to visit Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery and then backtrack,or you can continue straight on the county road 4.8 mi Turn left on 1050 North Follow the sign to State Road 49 South to visit Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve or turn right onto State Road 49 North to return to the Visitor Center 3.4 mi TAKE THE TRAIN By Ken Kosky If you’d like to enjoy an Indiana Dunes getaway but don’t want to drive (or don’t have a car), why not hop on the South Shore train? The train makes three stops in Indiana Dunes Country, each of which is about a mile walk to the beach. HERE’S WHAT TO DO AT EACH STOP Portage/Ogden Dunes Station Walk the Midwest Steel access road on the north side of the tracks for about a mile to Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (see page 6), which has a Lake Michigan beach and pier fishing. Or, go south, carefully crossing U.S. 12 to dine at Latitudes Waterfront Dining (see page 48) or hike the 2.6-mile Tolleston Dunes Trail (see page 7). Both are a short walk away. Dune Park Station Walk or ride your bike from the train station to Indiana Dunes State Park (see page 6). There, you can hike, swim, relax on the beach and get food at the concession stand. There is a $2 per person fee to enter the park. Beverly Shores Station This is a flag stop, so alert the conductor to stop or he’ll continue to the next station. And when it’s time to leave, press a button at the station so the train stops for you. If you’re at the station when The Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery is open (see page 21), stop in to learn some local history and see artwork and a gift shop. Across the street is Camp Stop General Store (see page 17), where you can rent bikes and get snacks and souvenirs. There is often a food truck in the parking lot. The Rolling Stonebaker pizza truck (see page 47) is often parked just east of the train station, and you’ll find gourmet food in the roadhouse setting at nearby Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill & Tavern (see page 47) And, about a mile north of the train station, you’ll find Lakeview Picnic Area and a nice stretch of beach (see page 6). FAQ : Can I take a bike on the train? The South Shore Line is launching a pilot program in 2016 allowing bikes on select (not all) Saturday and Sunday trains from April thru October. Bikes will be permitted to be taken on and off the train at the following stations: South Bend, Dune Park (in Chesterton, a mile from the beach); East Chicago, Hammond, Hegewisch, 57th Street, McCormick Place, Museum Campus/11th Street, Van Buren Street, and Millennium Station. Is there an extra cost? No. Where do I find more information? nictd.com. What about times when I can’t take a bike on the train? You may take the train to the Portage/Ogden Dunes, Dune Park or Beverly Shores station, each of which is a mile walk to the beach. Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 69 WINTER ACTIVITIES TOLLESTON DUNES When the cold winds blow and the snow falls, a whole new world of adventure opens up in Indiana Dunes Country. Follow us on Facebook to find out when the conditions are right for all your favorite winter activities. Central Park Ice Skating Rink Enjoy ice skating in a covered pavilion. Open each November for a four-month season. Hours: Skating Monday – Wednesday 4 – 8pm; Thursday – Friday 4 – 10pm; Saturday 8:30am – 10pm; Sunday 10am – 7pm; open hockey Sunday 8:30 – 10am; Monday – Wednesday 8 – 10pm Address: 70 Lafayette St., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-548-4888 or 462-5144 Web: centralparkplazavalpo.com Cost: $5 per person; $3 skate rental; group rates available Activities: Ice skating, hockey B Coffee Creek Park Downtown Chesterton sledding hill. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 246 E. Morgan Ave., Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing 70 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | SEASONS Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve With five miles of winding trails, this preserve has plenty of adventures in store for a cross-country skier. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: State Road 49 and Voyage Boulevard, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1842 Find us on Facebook Cost: Free Activities: Skiing B Countryside Park The hills offer great sledding and tubing, and its fishing pond is always dotted with ice fishers, even in the coldest months. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 5250 U.S. 6, Portage, IN 46868 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Ice Fishing B Forest Park This popular sledding hill is part of the Forest Park Golf Course. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 851 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing B Hebron Ice Rink Strap on your blades and twirl around this outdoor skating rink. It opens for the season as soon as the ice has frozen to a minimum of 4 inches, and stays open as long as weather permits — call the town hall or visit the website to find out if the rink will be open during your stay. Hours: Dawn – dusk, weather permitting Address: 199 Professional Ct., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-4641 Web: visithebron.org Cost: Free Activities: Ice skating HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Cross-country skiing is available on all of the park trails. The Glenwood Dunes Trail, with its warming shelter and loops ranging from 1 to 6.4 miles long, is definitely the can’tmiss spot — although the Tolleston Dunes trail is a close second. Hours: 7am – dusk Address: Glenwood Dunes Trail (U.S. 20, just west of 275 East, Chesterton, IN 46304), Tolleston Dunes (U.S. 12, two miles west of State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368) Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Cost: Free Activities: Skiing, Snowshoeing B Indiana Dunes State Park Hiking trails transform into crosscountry skiing and snowshoeing paths once the snow falls. If you enjoy sledding, hit Devil’s Slide, a sand dune that becomes a fun sledding and tubing hill. And be sure to view the majestic mountains of ice that form along Lake Michigan in the winter. Hours: 7am – 11pm Address: 1600 N. 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of U.S. 12) Phone: 219-926-1952 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Cost: Free on weekdays during winter. Other days, $7/car Indiana residents; $12/car out-of-state; annual passes available; campsites additional; walkins and individuals on buses $2 Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Skiing, Snowshoe rental B Imagination Glen Park Once the snow falls, winter enthusiasts can set off on three miles of crosscountry trails that loop through this 256-acre park. The trails are clearly marked, and are divided into difficulty from beginner to advanced. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 2275 McCool Rd., Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: inportageparks.com Cost: Free Activities: Skiing Rogers-Lakewood Park The park has nearly four miles of cross-country skiing trails and a huge sledding hill. Atop the hill, there’s a winter shelter and concessions stand. There’s also ice fishing on the park’s lakes. Hours: Dawn – dusk Address: 5320 N. Meridian Rd., Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Skiing, Ice Fishing B Santa’s Holiday Forest Cut down a fresh Christmas tree for your home (or pick up a freshcut one), go on a wagon ride, enjoy hot chocolate and hot dogs, and generally get into the Christmas spirit at this tree farm. Everyone who comes through the door gets a free gift from Santa’s helpers! Hours: 7am – 7pm, Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve Address: 95 E. 700 North, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1068, 219-916-5973 or 800-624-1068 Web: santasholidayforest.info Cost: Free; cost of trees vary Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Taltree’s quiet, gently-sloping woodlands, fascinating wetland views and huge expanse of prairie make the nearly four miles of trails perfect for cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and bird watching. Hours: Nov. – March 10am – 4pm Address: 450 W. 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Cost: $10/free for members and children 4 and under Activities: Snowshoeing (free rentals offered), skiing, gardening classes. B WRF Nursery and Garden Center In the fall, take a hayride to the pumpkin patch and pick your own, and give the corn maze a try. When winter rolls around, you can cut your own Christmas tree. Hours: March 1 – Dec. 24 Monday – Saturday 9am – 6pm Address: 255 E. 150 South, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-8733 Web: wrfnursery.com Cost: Cost of pumpkins and trees varies B Sunset Hill Farm County Park Enjoy cross-country skiing, see the holiday lights and enjoy snowshoe and workout classes (fee applies and equipment is provided; call to register). Hours: Dawn – dusk Holiday light festival: Friday – Sunday, Thanksgiving through Christmas Address: U.S. 6 and Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: indianadunes.com/ parks-and-recreation Cost: Free; $5 for festival; $5 to snowshoe Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowshoe Rental B Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 71 VISITOR INFORMATION Start your trip at the Visitor Center with: • • • • • • Helpful advice from our destination concierges Guides and brochures A short film in our theater An exhibit hall that’s fun for kids A gift shop Restrooms and drinking fountains Available at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center TT’S ILL BARTLE T GR GOURME & TAVERN way-12, way through pily ate our burger TORS hap best restaurants, t LIVING EDI mos r the MIDWEST Indiana to uncoves. We selected the ugh the Northwest a places and cafe culinary tour thro the towns a joints, pizz to guide you on -earth eateries in and le down-to Beverly Shores memorab . elegant and ton, , ntry ster iting Cou exc , Porter, Che ana Dunes of Portage that make up Indi Valparaiso S O L E L I T T Art – E, T I M SO M U C H TO D From the O Guide to IndIana dunes country FE IRD CA so BLACE.KB ay, Valparai Lincolnw CulinTaoruyr Beache es High 131 E. Dun res t Beverly Sho c restauran l at this rusti It’s retro-coo is the motto. The fort pub e elevates like where com roadhous es throwback met status in dish ked grub to gour Hardwood Smo oldature in ed sign the coat rined and Wings—b e (219/879-3081; school sauc .com). eatatbartletts untry Dunes Co Birding Kids Guide Y COUNTR DUNES INDIANA 2016 R Indiana CALENDA s e n u D s & Beyond OF EVENTS ked on ton – Hoo tival Chester et Art Fes Live Stre , Sept. 24 Saturday Indiana 114 out of this rs coming t The big flavoen garner a steadfas kitch come for closet-size t regulars a free . Breakfas following lox, then linger over tea. At bagels and e and 60 kinds of zesty refill of coffe h, locals line up for read lunc gh a throu b f es then thum ered bookshel clutt sandwich Wi-Fi pleasantly e with the from the productiv -2811; (219/548 or try to be o.com). cafevalparais blackbird g 66 W. Linc oach to dinin of Parisian apprunder a canopy Adopt a t to mpagne and sip Cha e fabric. You’ll wan whit l of French- a billowing gh a mea up in amble throu s here, so cozy in the inspired fooduette and indulge ds over leather banqes. Chat with frien ood in a robust entre swirling with seaf the isse a cue from a Bouillaba h, and take e and saffron brot linger over coffe e.com). and 2; bonfemm Parisians /531-061 cordial (219 ® nes.com ® IndianaDu1 log0 shadow The official fishin g guide of Porter County, Indiana DEAL INDIA FÉ MMEaraiCA so BON FE Valp olnway, Editor’s of Indiana Dunes Co ry Fishing Guiuntde NA D VALU A BLE C A collection of the best kid-friendly activities in Indiana Dunes Country! UNES OUPO COUN NS IN TRY S SIDE DINING * SWEET TREATS * INDOOR * OUTDOOR Whether you enjoy hiking, bicycling, bird watching, festivals or things to do with your kids, we have a guide for you. Pick up a copy at our Visitor Center, or visit IndianaDunes.com/destination-guides/ to view our guides electronically or to download them. You Can Find Us At Address: 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter IN 46304 (Just north of the Indiana Toll Road and Interstate 94. Just south of Indiana Dunes State Park and U.S. 20) Phone: 219-926-2255 or 800-283-8687 Web: IndianaDunes.com Email: [email protected] Summer hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day 8am-6pm seven days a week Off-season hours: Labor Day to Memorial Day 8:30am-4:30pm seven days a week 72 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | VISITOR INFORMATION The Activities Guide project manager is Ken Kosky of Indiana Dunes Tourism (IDT). Photography by IDT’s Christine Livingston and Ken Kosky. Smith Donovan Marketing & Communications and other photographers. Design by Smith Donovan Marketing & Communications in Chesterton, IN. This publication is produced by IDT in cooperation with area attractions and companies. Every effort was made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of printing. IDT is not liable for damages arising from errors, omissions or outdated information. No endorsement of products or services described is implied. IDT welcomes information about new travel-related businesses and attractions in Indiana Dunes Country, feedback about this publication and corrections/updates. Comments can be sent to [email protected]. INDIANA DUNES VISITOR CENTER Emergency Time Zone Phone Number 911 Call on a landline or cell phone for emergency purposes. CST Indiana Dunes Country is on Central Standard Time and observes Daylight Savings Time. Porter County is only one of 12 counties in Indiana that are not on Eastern Standard Time. Alcohol The legal drinking age is 21 Alcohol can’t be sold at retail stores on Sundays, but is available Sundays for consumption at restaurants or for consumption/carry-out purchase at wineries and brew pubs. Temperatures By Season LOW HIGH Spring Summer Autumn Winter 58° 81° 64° 29° 35° 60° 44° 10° Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 73 GETTING HERE Detroit Madison Chicago From Indianapolis, IN (south) Take Interstate 65 north to Interstate 94 east. Then, take State Road 49 north (exit 26B) into Indiana Dunes Country. From Toledo, OH (east) Take Interstate 80/90 west toward Chicago (portions toll) and cross into Indiana, then merge onto Interstate 94 west toward Chicago. Then, take State Road 49 north (exit 26B) into Indiana Dunes Country. 100 150 Indianapolis 200 Want to know a secret about traveling to the hidden gem of the Midwest? Half the population of the United States is located within a 12-hour drive of us. BY CAR Cleveland 50 250 BY RAIL The South Shore Line from Chicago runs approximately every hour and offers multiple stops within walking distance of Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore sites and Indiana Dunes State Park and, on Saturdays and Sundays from spring to fall, has train cars that accommodate bikes. South Shore Line: mysouthshoreline.com From Chicago, IL (west) Take Interstate 90/94 east from Chicago towards Indiana. Then, take State Road 49 north (exit 26B) into Indiana Dunes Country. From Grand Rapids, MI (north) Take Interstate 196 west towards Holland. Merge onto Interstate 94 west towards Chicago/Niles and cross into Indiana. Then, take State Road 49 north (exit 26B) into Indiana Dunes Country. Porter County Regional Airport Touch down in style at the area’s finest general aviation airport. BY AIR Midway International Airport (MDW), O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and the South Bend Regional Airport (SBN) are each about an hour away from Indiana Dunes Country, and are together serviced by most of the major airlines. Or, if you’ve got your own set of wings, do the easy thing and fly in to the Porter County Regional Airport (VPZ). It’s open 365 days a year and has no landing fees. MDW & ORD: flychicago.com SBN: sbnair.com VPZ: vpz.org BY BUS For those who want to minimize their carbon footprint (or want someone else to do the driving), Greyhound and Coach USA bus lines run regular services to Indiana Dunes Country. Greyhound: greyhound.com Coach USA: coachusa.com Cozy in size but grand in convenience, this two-runway airport is open 365 days a year, has no landing fees, and rent-a-cars are available on-site. Plus, it’s conveniently located within a mile of some of Valparaiso’s best hotels and restaurants. If you’re flying in, PCRA has on-field maintenance facilities, along with full fuel and line services for your aircraft. Scenic rides are also available to see the Dunes from the air—an exciting opportunity to make your visit even more memorable. Address: 4207 Murvihill Rd. Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 800-462-6508 Hours: Monday–Friday 6am–10pm Saturday–Sunday 7am–7pm Web: vpz.org ADVERTISEMENT 74 | INDIANA DUNES TOURISM | VISITOR INFORMATION PICTURE PERFECT @INDIANADUNES HOP ONLINE TO EXPLORE MORE INDIANADUNES.COM Tag @indianadunes on Instagram and Twitter! Take your best shot of (or selfie with) these and other Indiana Dunes Country attractions, then tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond so we can like and share our favorites. We may even use your pictures in next year’s guide! 1 2 3 4 5 6 1. Howie the Cow: This 10-foot tall cow has been outside Kelsey’s Steak House since 1994. Kelsey’s, 2300 Morthland Dr. (U.S. 30), Valparaiso, IN. 2. Orville Redenbacher statue: Grab a seat next to the popcorn king who built his empire in Valparaiso. Central Park, 70 Lafayette St., Valparaiso, IN You can also find Indiana Dunes Tourism on Facebook, Pinterest, and Google+ 3. Lunchtime Atop a Skyscraper statues: These statues are based on a famous photo and were originally displayed at the site of the World Trade Center after 9/11. Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille, 1084 Linwood Ave., Valparaiso, IN 5. Dunn’s Bridge: Legend has it that this bridge over the historic Kankakee River was made with steel from the world’s first Ferris Wheel, which was at the 1904 World’s Fair. Approx. 1500 S. 500 East (at Kankakee River), Kouts, IN 4. Zao Island’s Dragon: Named one of the most unique mini-golf courses in the nation, Zao Island’s signature spot is under the three-story mountain and giant dragon. Zao Island, 1050 Horseprairie Ave., Valparaiso, IN 6. Bass Pro Shops: Immortalize your visit to this amazing store with the giant aquariums, the waterfall, the moose outside and other photo opportunities. Bass Pro, 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr., Portage, IN Tag @indianadunes and use #BeachesAndBeyond | INDIANADUNES.COM 75 Indiana Dunes TOURISM Indiana Dunes Tourism 1215 N. State Road 49 Porter, IN 46304 800-283-8687 Franciscan St. Anthony Health Chesterton Health & Emergency Center Average wait time less than 15 minutes! Your visit to the Indiana Dunes should be fun and worry-free – which includes knowing you’ll have easy access to excellent emergency care if and when it’s needed. The Chesterton Health & Emergency Center is the region’s only full-service, 24/7 freestanding emergency center. It offers faster, personalized service coupled with the high-quality emergency care associated with Franciscan St. Anthony Health–Michigan City. DRIVE LESS. GETAWAY MORE. northern indiana Our Emergency Center is staffed with board-certified emergency physicians and nurses specially trained in emergency care. And, our on-site paramedics are available 24/7 to transfer you to the hospital if the need arises. The center also includes primary care and specialist physician suites, as well as outpatient laboratory and imaging services, including mammography and Open MRI. The Chesterton Health & Emergency Center is conveniently located just east of the intersection at State Road 49 and Indian Boundary Road—only a few short miles from Indiana Dunes State Park—with shorter wait times to get you treated and on your way. Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year Address: 770 Indian Boundary Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-2000 Web: FranciscanAlliance.org/Chesterton ADVERTISEMENT
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