View - Indiana Dunes
Transcription
View - Indiana Dunes
These are the INDIANA DUNES Nature’s Masterpiece Indiana Dunes State Park Visitors are often surprised to discover 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. Aerial cover photo by Air One Aerial Photography 2 Indiana Dunes State Park Table of Contents THE INDIANA DUNES Indiana Dunes State Park 2 INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY 10 Cities and Towns 10 Must See & Do 12 Family Fun 14 History & Culture 18 Arts & Entertainment 22 RECREATION 24 Hiking & Biking 24 Kayaks, Boating & Fishing 26 Golfing & Sporting 28 Bowling, Billiards, Skating, Sporting & Swimming 30 Community Parks & Gardens 31 ACCOMMODATIONS 37 DINING 46 MARKETS & SHOPPING 54 CALENDAR OF EVENTS 60 FALL DRIVES 61 WINTER ACTIVITIES 62 GETTING HERE 64 “Top 10 Best Family Beach” —PARENTS MAGAZINE “Top 51 scenic hikes” —USA TODAY “Top 10 Urban Escape” —NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC Indiana Dunes State Park INDIANADUNES.COM 3 INDIANA DUNES AND LAKE MICHIGAN 101 When we talk about the Indiana Dunes, we’re talking about a more than 2,000-acre state park surrounded by an even larger national park. In all, the Indiana Dunes is 15,000 acres of beaches, prairies, wetlands, savannas and forests; more than 70 miles of trails; and a Lake Michigan coastline stretching for 15 glorious miles. WEST BEACH PORTER BEACH AREA North 0 The dunes, which are basically massive mounds of sand reaching nearly 200 feet in height, were formed when glaciers passed through long, long ago. PORTAGE LAKEFRONT AND RIVERWALK 0 1 2 Kilometers 1 2 Miles The state park offers easy access (Indiana 49 North ends at the park—and that’s the only entrance). The state park features Mount Tom, a 192-foot tall sand dune, a great stretch of beach for supervised swimming and great hiking trails, including Trail 9—which was featured as the best place to hike in Indiana by USA Today. It offers easy access and ample parking. There is a gate fee. The national park features Mount Baldy, a 123-foot moving sand dune. The national park was chosen as one of the Top 10 Urban Escapes in the Nation by National Geographic and its West Beach was chosen as one of the Top 10 Best Family Beaches in the nation by Parents Magazine. West Beach, the only national lakeshore site with a gate fee, offers the largest parking area. Check out this map and pages 4 and 5 to see the various points to enter the national park and learn more about each site. Lake Michigan provides a great place for water fun, whether it’s kayaking, scuba diving, swimming or renting a boat for some fishing or sightseeing. Or, you can just hang out on the beach. The beauty and majesty of the Indiana Dunes can’t be experienced in just a day, so we recommend you stay overnight in one of our many great hotels, inns or campgrounds. Then, read about the dunes sites and pick the ones that sound most interesting to you. To get the full Indiana Dunes experience, shake off the sand south of the dunes in one of our communities, like Chesterton, Portage or Valparaiso. You’ll find great restaurants, shops and attractions waiting for you in Indiana Dunes Country. Visit www. indianadunes.com, call 800-283-8687 or stop by our Visitor Center (see page 64) to learn more. Find out more! Watch our Dunes 101 Video Series. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=85uLjU 8r7l0&list=SP43169F6DB84BF137 4 You can learn more about each of these sites, as well as get information on hours, fees and activities, on pages 6–7. TOLLESTON DUNES COWLES BOG LITTLE CALUMET RIVER TRAIL INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK KEMIL ROAD BEACH DUNBAR ACCESS POINT LAKE VIEW PICNIC AREA CENTRAL AVENUE BEACH MOUNT BALDY GREAT MARSH TRAIL HERON ROOKERY TRAIL PINHOOK BOG Pets allowed on trails. Pets allowed on trails or beach. BAILLY HOMESTEAD AND CHELLBERG FARM INDIANA DUNES VISITOR CENTER GLENWOOD DUNES TRAIL INDIANADUNES.COM 5 Indiana Dunes Attractions Portage Public Marina Cowles Bog Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm Joseph Bailly, the first known non-native resident of Northwest Indiana, set up a fur trading post here in 1822. After viewing the homestead, take the short hiking path through a ravine and beechmaple forest to Chellberg Farm. The farmhouse looks much as it did in the late 1800s. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304 GPS: Lat: 41.6239 Long: -87.0926 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Central Avenue Beach Access A unique beach you can access by paved road or wooded trail. Here, you can see a buried forest created by wind-blown sands. Nearby, you can access the Calumet Bike Trail. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: Central Avenue, Michigan City, IN 46360 GPS: Lat: 41.4208 Long: -86.5691 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 THE J.D. MARSHALL PRESERVE INDIANA’S FIRST SHIPWRECK PRESERVE 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. This is the site where Henry Chandler Cowles pioneered his landmark study of the Dunes’ vegetation succession—thus cementing his place in the history of ecology. The bog contains a marsh with a small fen, where a stand of tamaracks and white pines grow on a floating mat of peat moss. Hike out to the beach and back on 4.5 miles of interconnecting trails. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: North Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304 GPS: Lat: 41.6453 Long: -87.0846 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Dunbar Beach Access Parking is limited at this prime spot near the Lake View Picnic Area and the historic Century of Progress homes. A nice stretch of beach. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: Lake Front Drive, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 GPS: Lat: 41.4092 Long: -87.0017 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .06 mile and 28 stair steps DO THE 3 DUNE CHALLENGE! Think you have what it takes to climb the three tallest sand dunes in the entire Indiana Dunes? Then take the 3 Dune Challenge! Hike Trail 8 at Indiana Dunes State Park, where you’ll be challenged by Mt. Jackson (elevation 176 feet); Mt. Holden (elevation 184 feet); and Mt.Tom (elevation 192 feet). Finish it (visit IndianaDunes.com/3Dune for details) and we’ll give you a special keepsake at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center. Starts May 31, 2014. Indiana Dunes State Park See listing on page 7 Indiana Dunes Visitor Center See listing on page 64 6 Lake Michigan Glenwood Dunes Trail Grab your boots, your skis or your horse and strike off on this all-season trail. Throughout the year it’s open for hiking or horseback riding, and in the winter it becomes a cross-country skiing trail through wooded dunes and wetlands. (You’ll need to bring your own horse or skis.) Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: US Highway 20, just west of 275 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 GPS: Lat: 41.3891 Long: -87.0089 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Great Marsh Trail The newest trail of the National Lakeshore is a bird lover’s paradise. Take a short stroll to the observation platform for a breathtaking view of this recently restored wetland. Wading birds and songbirds are abundant. During the fall and spring, you’ll see flocks of ducks and geese winging through on their annual migration. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: Broadway Avenue, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 GPS: Lat: 41.4038 Long: -86.5918 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Heron Rookery Trail For more than 60 years, herons have nested here along the Little Calumet River. Although the rookery is no longer active, it’s still a prime location for bird watching and fishing. In the springtime, the woods along the 1.6-mile trail are carpeted with wildflowers, including trillium, Dutchman’s breeches and May apple. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: North County Road 600 East, Michigan City, IN 46360 GPS: Lat: 41.6269 Long: -86.9523 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Indiana Dunes State Park Mount Baldy West Beach Welcome to more than 2,000 acres of beach, marshes, forests and dunes. Hike to the top of Mount Tom, a sand dune that towers 192 feet above Lake Michigan. Hike some of the park’s 16.5 miles of trails. You’ll also find camping, picnicking, showers, a snack bar, a camp store, a gift shop and a swimming beach with lifeguards. Rangers have programs daily between Memorial Day and Labor Day, and on weekends the rest of the year. See the view of the Chicago skyline on the largest moving sand dune in the National Lakeshore. Mount Baldy is 123 feet tall and is a popular location for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking and kite flying. TEMPORARILY CLOSED. CONTACT PARK TO SEE IF IT HAS REOPENED. A bathhouse, a huge swath of sand and a stationed lifeguard make this beach one of the most popular spots for enjoying Lake Michigan. If you’re looking for inland fun, strike out from the beach and hike the Dune Succession Trail—it includes a boardwalk and 250 stairs to a spectacular overlook of the lake. The beach also has covered picnic shelters and grills. Hours: 7am–11pm Address: 1600 North 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of US Highway 12) GPS: Lat: 41.6624 Long: -87.0633 Phone: 219-926-1952 Cost: $5/car Indiana resident; $10/car out-of-state; annual passes available; campsites additional Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Distance from parking lot to beach: .05 mile Lifeguards on duty 11am-6pm daily Memorial Day to Labor Day Handicap accessible Kemil Road Beach Access You’ll enjoy one of the most scenic drives in Porter County getting to the Kemil Road Beach parking lots. Then you can enjoy a nice stretch of beach or walk down to Lake View Picnic area to have a picnic or use the restroom. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: Kemil Road and Lake Front Drive, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 GPS: Lat: 41.4066 Long: -87.0057 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .24 mile Lake View Picnic Area & Beach Access Enjoy a picnic overlooking Lake Michigan from the shade of a picnic shelter. It’s a picture-perfect place to watch the sun set over the lake, or view migrating birds such as ducks, loons, grebes and gulls in the spring and fall. No lifeguards and limited parking. Hours: Sunrise-11pm Address: Lake Front Drive, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 GPS: Lat: 41.6820 Long: -87.0065 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .02 mile and 22 stair steps Handicap accessible (picnic/viewing area) Little Calumet River Trail Follow the trail from the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm along the river, cross over into wetlands, hardwood and pine forest and finally into the Mnoke Prairie—a recently restored, 120-acre tallgrass prairie that’s a great spot for enjoying summer and fall wildflowers. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: Howe Road, Porter, IN 46304 GPS: Lat: 41.6203 Long: -87.0933 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: US Highway 12, Michigan City, IN 46360 GPS: Lat: 41.7069 Long: -86.9301 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .36 mile and 52 steps via beach trail Pinhook Bog Pinhook Bog is Indiana’s only true bog. Walk atop its floating boardwalk and you’ll see insect-eating plants, tamaracks, blueberry bushes and an impressive patch of spaghum moss. You can only visit the bog through a scheduled tour with a park service ranger, but it’s an effort well worth making. Hours: Call for next scheduled program Address: 227 North Wozniak Road, La Porte, IN 46350 GPS: Lat: 41.6150 Long: -86.8484 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: North County Line Road, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6226 Long: -87.2086 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: $6/car charged from Memorial Day to Labor Day Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .34 mile Lifeguards on duty 10am-6pm daily Memorial Day to Labor Day. Handicap accessible DO THE INDIANA DUNES FROM THE AIR Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk Formerly an industrial site, this 57-acre lakefront site features an enclosed pavilion with seasonal food service, restrooms, a handicap-accessible trail and fishing pier. A breakwater with handrails provides easy access for fishing, bird watching and sightseeing. You can also launch your canoe or kayak onto Lake Michigan. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: 6150 US Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6310 Long: -87.1777 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .14 mile Handicap accessible Porter Beach Access A popular gathering spot for splashing in the water, playing beach sports and catching some rays. No lifeguards. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: 3057 Wabash Ave., Porter, IN 46304 GPS: Lat: 41.3956 Long: -87.0415 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu Distance from parking lot to beach: .08 (near lot) to .16 mile Handicap accessible Tolleston Dunes This scenic trail leads over the high ridges of the Tolleston Dunes, formed about 10,000 years ago when Lake Michigan was 25 feet higher than it is today. The trail passes through wetlands and an oak savannah. It’s a favorite spot for bird watchers and plant enthusiasts. Hours: Sunrise–30 minutes after sunset Address: US Highway 12, two miles west of State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6157 Long: -87.1928 Phone: 219-395-1882 Cost: Free Web: nps.gov/indu 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, where both DonnAir Aviation and Eagle Aircraft offer one-hour flights. DonnAir Aviation Hours: Mon.–Fri. 9am–6pm Sat. 9am–5pm Sun. 10am–4pm Address: 4601 Murvihill Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 GPS: Lat: 41.4489 Long: -86.9997 Phone: 219-548-8866 Cost: One hour flight for up to two people is $160 Web: donnairaviation.com Eagle Aircraft Hours: Mon.–Fri. 8am-8pm (7pm in the fall; 5pm in the winter) Sat. & Sun. 8am–5pm Address: 4001 Murvihill Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 GPS: Lat: 41.4490 Long: -87.0126 Phone: 219-464-0132 Cost: One hour flight for up to three people is $189 ($239 with dinner; $325 with dinner and a hotel stay) Web: jseagle.com/discovery-flights/ INDIANADUNES.COM 7 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, and is there an entry fee? The park is open 7am-11pm daily and the entrance fee is $5 for in-state vehicles and $10 for out-of-state vehicles. Annual passes are available. Admission is free weekdays between November and mid-April. 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. 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—that is the time closure decisions are made. Are personal motorized watercraft, dune buggies or kayaks allowed? 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. Kayaks can be put in the far west side of the park. Personal motorized watercraft and dune buggies are not permitted. Can I climb the dunes? Do all trails involve steep climbs? Is alcohol allowed? No. BEACH AND SWIMMER 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. 8 Are pets allowed? There are various trails that involve climbing the dunes and others that are easy. The park has 16.5 miles of trails and is home to Mount Tom, which is the tallest sand dune in Indiana, towering 192 feet above Lake Michigan. Trail 8, which is rated a rugged trail, takes hikers to Mount Tom, as well as Mount Jackson (elevation 176 feet) and Mount Holden (elevation 184 feet). Trail 2 is rated an easy trail. And Trails 3,4,7, 9 and 10 are moderate trails. Be sure to get a trail map from the park’s gatehouse or Nature Center. Is there camping? Lodging? Dining? Can I bring my own firewood into the park? The state has a new policy which states 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. 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. 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). There is a concession stand in the pavilion during the summer and a campground store, but there are no lodging facilities or restaurants within the park boundaries. Dunewood Campground Indiana Dunes State Park About the 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 US Highway 12 (see map on pages 4-5). Mount Baldy On US Highway 12, east of Porter/La Porte County Line Road in Michigan City. Central Avenue Access On Central Avenue, north of US Highway 12 in Michigan City. Lake View Picnic Area Lake Front Drive at Lake View in Beverly Shores. What are the hours and is there an enhanced amenity fee? The National Lakeshore is open from 7amdusk. The enhanced amenity fee is $6 at West Beach. Other sites are free to enter. Is alcohol allowed? Alcohol is allowed only on the beach sites from Kemil east to Mount Baldy, but remember that glass bottles are prohibited. Alcohol is not allowed from West Beach to Indiana Dunes State Park. 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? Kemil Access North end of East State Park Road, at Lakefront Drive in Beverly Shores. Pets on leashes are allowed on the beaches at the access points 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 US Highway 20 and Schoolhouse Road is open for riding March 16 through December 14. Porter Access From US Highway 12, take Waverly Road north to Roskin to 3057 Wabash in Porter. Do you close the beach when high waves are present or E. coli levels are high? Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk From US Highway 12, take State Road 249 South and follow park signs to site in Portage. No. The National Lakeshore does not close its beach regardless of water conditions. Risks are inherent in all natural areas. During summer months, lifeguards are stationed at West Beach. Lifeguards are not present at other access points. Call 219-926-7561 followed by prompt #2 for information regarding E. coli levels. Dunbar Access Intersection of Lake Front Drive and Dunbar Avenue in Beverly Shores. West Beach From US Highway 12, go north on Lake/ Porter County Line Road in Portage. West Beach has the largest parking capacity and generally only fills on holiday weekends. The other access points have limited parking, so utilize them on weekdays, arrive early on weekends or use off-season. If parking is full, you can always head into one of our communities for a great meal and a little shopping, them return to the beach later in the afternoon when the early crowds start to clear out. Can I climb the dunes? Mount Baldy is the only National Lakeshore dune where climbing is allowed (lake side only). However, West Beach offers a spectacular overlook on the one-mile West Beach Succession Trail. Do all trails involve steep climbs? There are trails of varying difficulty at various spots that people can use. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is one place where people enjoy Lake Michigan views on a handicap-accessible trail. For suggested hiking places, see the hiking page of this guide (page 27) or see even more options on pages 6 and 7. 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, firstserved 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. 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. How do I reserve an environmental education program? Teachers and youth group leaders should call Christy Gerlach at 219-395-1885 to arrange for a free ranger-led program. These programs are conducted at the park’s Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education located in Gary/ Miller, Indiana, and focus on the park’s resource issues. Do you have a Junior Ranger Program? Yes. Stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center on State Road 49, just south of US Highway 20, and ask a ranger to help you select the junior ranger program that best fits your visit. A Beachcombers program is popular with families spending just a few hours on the beach. A more comprehensive program is a favorite among those camping in the park. 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. INDIANADUNES.COM 9 Communities Chesterton Discover the charm of our distinct communities as you pursue your passions along quiet streets and bustling avenues. CHESTERTON HEBRON You’re sure to find what you’re looking for, whether it’s the fine dining, shopping and entertainment that Valparaiso is known for; some lakefront fun in Portage; or Chesterton’s charming downtown with its festivals and outdoor summer market. And to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life, look no further than our smaller towns, like Porter, Hebron and Kouts. Do it in Chesterton: Do it in Hebron: ii Enjoy great food and a relaxing dining atmosphere at Lucrezia, Popolano’s and Octave, three restaurants located near one another in the heart of Chesterton Each stop has a different vibe and feel that together forms a rich tapestry of daily life here in Indiana Dunes Country. Here are some great things you’ll find only in our communities: BURNS HARBOR The Art of Green Living Do it in Burns Harbor: ii Play sports like volleyball and basketball or enjoy swimming and fishing at Lakeland Park ii Catch salmon, trout and other fish along the Little Calumet River ii Check out The Village in Burns Harbor, the first community in the nation awarded the National Green Building Standard ii Drive past ArcelorMittal for a glimpse of how industry coexists with Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes Learn more at BurnsHarbor.org or ChestertonChamber.org 10 An Artcentric Community ii After a long hike at the Indiana Dunes State Park, let the carhops at The Port Drive-In, a 1950s-style drive-in restaurant, bring favorites like root beer floats, chili dogs and Green River soda to your car ii Take a scenic hike or enjoy fishing, picnicking and bird watching at the 151-acre Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve ii Learn about the Chesterton area’s history by touring Brown Mansion and checking out the interesting exhibits at the adjoining Westchester History Museum, then purchase a piece of history at one of the many antique shops in town ii Shop at some of the most unique stores around for food lovers, like Molly Bea’s INGREDIENTS ii Sample artisan cheeses, indulge in freshbaked goods, select the freshest fruits and vegetables, or shop for one-of-a-kind jewelry, clothing, art and gifts from May to October at Chesterton’s European Market ii Shop downtown at unique stores like The Flower Cart, Indian Summer Boutique, Ashley’s Jewelry By Design and Ella’s Bella Learn more at ChestertonIn.org or ChestertonChamber.org Valparaiso Pioneering Spirit ii Enjoy a piece of pie at The Country Kitchen or relax with friends at The Heritage Inn ii Enjoy great prime rib, seafood or pasta dishes at Hebron’s restaurant along the Kankakee River—Marti’s Place at Ramsey’s Landing ii Visit the Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depot to view community artifacts, railroad memorabilia and an exhibit on military service ii Celebrate each fall and winter at the Hebron Block Party and Hebron Winterfest Learn more at VisitHebron.org or HebronChamber.org KOUTS Country Living Do it in Kouts: ii Launch your boat or kayak or toss a fishing line into the Kankakee River from Dunn’s Bridge County Park ii Shop for locally raised pork and other meat, as well homemade pies, local fruits and vegetables, at Birky Family Farms Country Market, located just north of town ii Grab a bite to eat at one of the great restaurants or pizza parlors along Main Street—like Cronies Charhouse & Gin Mill, Country Folks Pizza, George’s Koffee Kup, Main Street Pizza Plus or Brieli’s, or head out to Baum’s Bridge Inn ii Celebrate everything pig-related at the super-fun Kouts Pork Fest each August ii Relive the history of the Kankakee River at the Aukiki River Festival each August PORTAGE VALPARAISO Do it in Portage: ii See baseball bats—destined for use by major league baseball players—made right in front of you at Hoosier Bat Company. You can even purchase a bat or other baseball gifts at their gift shop Lakeside City with a Nautical Touch Vibrant and Visionary Do it in Valparaiso: ii Experience a great expanse of nature at sites like West Beach, Tolleston Dunes and Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk ii Sit back, relax and then get blown away at Portage 16 IMAX—the only place in Northern Indiana offering the coolness of IMAX on an eight-story screen ii Recharge and have fun at Quaker Steak & Lube, a restaurant with a real working NASCAR, three Corvettes and eight motorcycles hanging from the ceiling—or enjoy other great restaurants, like Cappo’s, Fuji Japanese Restaurant, Kelsey’s Steakhouse and Topperz ii Shop in an outdoorsman’s paradise— Bass Pro Shops—and be sure to enjoy a seafood dish at the in-store Islamorada Fish Company restaurant Chesterton Art Fair ii Shop for unique, handmade crafts by visiting all the homes, businesses and organizations that sell their wares during the Kouts Annual Christmas Open House each December ii Get all shook up at Elvis FANtasy Fest each October ii Get onto Lake Michigan and see the Indiana Dunes from a unique vantage point Learn more at Ci.Portage.In.US or PortageInChamber.com Learn more at KoutsIndiana.org or Kouts.info LAKEFRONT COMMUNITIES (Beverly Shores, Dune Acres, Ogden Dunes, The Pines) Do it in the Lakefront Communities: ii Check out the iconic Beverly Shores train station, which is also home to the Depot of Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery ii Enjoy great hiking and birdwatching along the Great Marsh Trail in Beverly Shores ii Have a picnic along Lake Front Drive at the Lake View Picnic Area, then walk onto the beach and see nothing but sand and water for miles ii Learn the history of the Century of Progress Homes, which were built for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, then were transported to Beverly Shores ii Feast on five-hour braised pot roast, parmesanencrusted whitefish and gourmet macaroni and cheese in the funky, totally casual Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill & Tavern in Beverly Shores ii Have a pizza made just for you by the Rolling Stonebaker, a restored antique truck that serves as a pizza parlor on wheels and which can be found parked at the entrance to Beverly Shores (find them on Facebook to see their schedule) Learn more at BeverlyShoresIndiana.org, DuneAcres.org or OgdenDunes.org PORTER Front Porch to the Dunes Do it in Porter: ii Splash in Lake Michigan, play beach volleyball and soak up the sun’s rays at Porter Beach ii *Enjoy 15 water slides, a 500,000 gallon wave pool, a lazy river and more at Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland. ii Feast on the ribs at Wagner’s Ribs or enjoy your favorite Mexican dish at Santiago’s in downtown or Leroy’s Hot Stuff on US Highway 20 ii Stop by Biggs Violin Shop (where Richard Biggs, one of only 200 master luthiers in the world, makes and restores fine instruments and their bows) and Sleepy Hollow Leather ii Hang around downtown and watch trains chug through town Learn more at TownOfPorter.com or ChestertonChamber.org ii Cut loose and have fun at Zao Island, the home of two miniature golf courses, go-carts, a game room, laser tag, batting cages, a giant slide, real alligators and a pizzeria ii Wander through seven galleries filled with more than 3,000 pieces of art at Valparaiso University’s Brauer Museum of Art. While at the university, be sure to visit the inspiring Chapel of the Resurrection, named one of the 30 most beautiful college cathedrals in the world. ii Get your fix of nature and railroad fun at Taltree Arboretum, which features hiking trails, formal gardens and a huge, nationally-recognized model railway garden ii Be entertained—whether you’re enjoying a movie experience straight out of the 1950s at the 49er Drive-In Theatre; catching a live play, listening to music or viewing an independent film at the Memorial Opera House; or enjoying a great production at Chicago Street Theatre ii Dine at one of the city’s fine downtown restaurants, like the eclectic Bistro 157, popular Restaurante Don Quijote or Chicago-style Pikk’s Tavern, or try the casual fine dining experience at dish Restaurant. Don’t forget to save room to indulge in a creamy scoop of locally made ice cream from the famous Valpo Velvet ice cream shop or a creation from Designer Desserts ii Pop into town during Popcorn Festival each September and celebrate the city’s link to popcorn legend Orville Redenbacher ii Shop at one-of-a-kind downtown stores like Lifestyles, David’s Mens Clothier, Piper Children’s Boutiques, Seasons on the Square, Boutique in Bloom, Martin Binder Jeweler, The Welcome Mat, Bangles, Sheep’s Clothing Knitting Supply and She’s Crafty ii Find Indiana Dunes Country artists’ work at great places like Air One Aerial Photography, The Artists’ Den and Lifestyles Learn more at Ci.Valparaiso.In.US or ValparaisoChamber.org TRAIN YOUR SIGHT ON PORTER: Go to downtown Porter to watch numerous trains go by. It’s one of the best spots around for train enthusiasts. INDIANADUNES.COM 11 Must See & Do 12 Taltree Arboretum Railway Garden Zao Island Amusement Center Be amazed by Taltree’s 2.5-acre model railway garden. The railway garden’s wonderful waterfalls, elaborate bridges, impressive 14-foot change in elevation and its more than 3,500 tiny trees and bushes are a hit with both kids and adults. Taltree is also a great place to walk and enjoy gardens, woods, a pond and prairies. Learn more on pages 19, 31, 37 and 63 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 pages 19 and 20 Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland Hoosier Bat Company The Indiana Dunes Enjoy 15 water slides, including four 70-feet free fall slides, as well as a 650,000-gallon wave pool, a quarter-mile lazy river, two kids areas with splash features and waterslides, group cabanas and much more. Learn more on pages 19 and 21 Call ahead and set up a tour. You’ll see baseball bats for major league players 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 18 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 3–9 50s Fun Broken Wagon Bison Farm 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 pages 17 and 24 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 100 bison. Afterward, purchase a variety of bison meat products and gifts. Learn more on page 12 Valparaiso University Valpo Velvet Bass Pro Shops 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 a full schedule of happenings such as the annual Jazz Fest, dramatic productions and diverse musical events. And don’t forget the university’s Division I athletics teams. Learn more on page 25 For 65 years, Valpo Velvet ice cream shop has been serving the rich, creamy, old fashioned ice cream that people come from all around to experience. The five simple ingredients in the mix haven’t changed, but Valpo Velvet now makes 65 to 70 different flavors. Call ahead, and you can take a guided tour behind the scenes and watch ice cream being made. Learn more on page 19 Shop until you drop at this 130,000-square-foot wonderland for lovers of the outdoors. Inside, you’ll find boats, waterfalls and every piece of equipment an outdoor enthusiast could ever want or need. And if you get hungry, you can grab a bite to eat at the in-store Islamadora Fish Company. Learn more on pages 16, 29 and 30 Memorial Opera House Portage 16 IMAX Chesterton’s European Market At the Memorial Opera House, you’ll find oldschool charm (like the stained-glass windows) and top-notch modern amenities (like a brand-new sound system). The Memorial Opera House presents live community theatre performances, brings in national musical acts, holds a lunchtime cabaret series once a month and screens independent films. Learn more on page 25 Sit back, relax and get blown away at the only place in Northern Indiana offering the sheer coolness of IMAX on an eightstories-high screen. The other 15 non-IMAX screens in the complex show just about every current blockbuster you can think of, and the concession stand offers free pop and 50-cent popcorn refills. Learn more on page 24 Chesterton’s European market is a Frenchinspired artisans and farmers market located in historic downtown Chesterton. Vendors are brought together from all over the Midwest to create a high quality eclectic marketplace featuring handmade art, fresh artisan pastries, fresh prepared foods, farm grown produce, jewelry, accessories, clothing, fresh soap and much more. Learn more on page 55, 58 and 60 INDIANADUNES.COM 13 Family Fun Indiana Dunes State Park Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World This 130,000-square-foot store has everything for outdoors lovers, including boats, fishing gear and hunting equipment. Try the in-store restaurant— Islamorada Fish Company. Hours: Mon.–Sat. 9am–9pm Sun. 10am–7pm Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham Drive, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6035 Long: -87.1680 Phone: 219-787-6800 Web: basspro.com Broken Wagon Bison Farm Get up close and personal with our country’s largest native land mammal at this family-owned farm. You can 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. Onehour tours start promptly at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. each Saturday from June through September. Group tours are also available by appointment. Tour fee applies. Closed June 4-8, 2014. Address: 563 West 450 North, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-3523 Web: brokenwagonbison.com 14 Ceramics Ceramix 101 BEHIND THE SCENES: This paint-your-own ceramics studio is fun for families or parties. Hours: Tue., Sat. Noon-6pm Wed.-Fri. Noon-8pm (hours may vary) Address: 908 Roosevelt Road, Suite C, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-6536 Web: ceramix101.net Imaginations Unlimited Paint your own ceramics, take classes, buy supplies or buy unique gifts. Hours: Mon. Noon-5pm, 7-10pm Wed.-Fri. 10am-4pm Sat. (Oct. 1-May 1 only) 9am-noon Address: 612 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4647 Request a tour at great attractions like the Broken Wagon Bison Farm in Hobart, Brown Mansion in Chesterton, and these Valparaiso sites: Memorial Opera House, Valpo Velvet ice cream, Hoosier Bat Company and the Valparaiso Fire Museum. Classic Car and Motorcycle Cruise-Ins and Shows Best Bike Nite on the Planet Food and drink specials, outdoor patio, live music, different themes each week, bikes and cars. Hours: May-Oct Every Wednesday (weather permitting) 5pm-midnight Address: Quaker Steak and Lube, 6245 Ameriplex Drive, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-9464 Web: quakersteakandlube. com Car Show Series Check out these three great car shows at the Porter County Expo Center. Swap meets on May and September dates; fireworks show on June date. Hours: Sunday, May 19 9am-2pm; Friday, June 28, 6-10pm (June 30 rain date); Sunday, Sept. 8, 9am-2pm Address: Porter County Expo Center, 215 East Division Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-9918 Chesterton Cruise Night Cars of all kinds—vintage, sporty, muscle and foreign. A night of true family fun! Hours: May-Oct: Last Saturday of every month 5-9:30pm Address: Thomas Centennial Park, Calumet Road and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Web: chestertonin.org Midwest Corvette & Chevy Show Car show, auction and swap meet, beer garden and live entertainment. Dates: Aug. 10-11, 2013 Address: Porter County Expo Center, 215 East Division Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-617-8388 Web: midwest-carshows.com Pav’s Summer Car Nites (trucks & bikes, too) A wide variety of rides, good food and live DJ Billy D playing 50s and 60s classics. Hours: Apr-Aug Tuesday nights 5pm-close Address: Pav’s Restaurant, 642 North Main Street, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-3663 Web: pavsonline.com Southpoint Cruise-In Live music, beer garden, food, cars and bikes. Hours: May-Sep: Fri. 6-9pm Address: Harley-Davidson of Valparaiso, 1151 West US Highway 30, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-476-0944 Web: hdvalpo.com Valpo-Fest Bike & Car Show Motorcycle and car show, swap meet, live music, food and beer garden. Date: May 26, 2013 Address: Porter County Expo Center, 215 East Division Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 800-800-6034 Web: valpo-fest.com Gear Up Chesterton Bicycle Station This full-service bike shop will rent vacationers a bicycle for $15 a day. They also sell a wide variety of bicycles, helmets, bicycle parts, clothing and more. They provide quality service if the need arises. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm Address: 116 South 4th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1112 Web: chestertonbicycle.com Campstop General Store This general store located in the heart of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore offers bicycle rentals for $5 an hour or $20 for a day. The store also sells camp supplies, food, wood, propane, souvenirs and more. Hours: Mon-Sun 9am-9pm Address: 2 West Dunes Highway (US Highway 12), Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-878-1382 Web: campstopgeneralstore.com Diver’s Lair Diver’s Lair is your one-stop shop for scuba diving training, equipment, equipment repair and local or exotic travel. Hours: Tue-Fri 12-6pm Sat 10am-4pm Address: 4405 North Calumet Avenue, Suite A, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3483 Web: diverslair.com 49er Drive-in Theatre INDIANADUNES.COM 15 Hoosier Bat Company King Hobbies and Raceway Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Arrange a tour and see baseball bats being made for major league players, and be sure to pick up a souvenir in the gift shop. This hobby shop sells and services radio controlled vehicles and aircraft. For $8 a day, you can drive your radio controlled vehicle around their 80- by 180-foot outdoor racetrack. They also have an indoor Kyosho dNaNo track. For more than 60 years, Valpo Velvet ice cream has been the stuff sweet-lovers’ dreams are made of. Join the tradition at their colorful and funky shoppe (you can’t miss it—it’s the building painted with the multicolored cows), which serves not only ice cream, but made-on-site sandwiches, soups and lunches that are utter deliciousness. Call ahead, and you can take a guided tour behind the scenes and watch ice cream being made. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Address: 4511 East Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-1006 or 800-228-3787 Web: hoosierbat.com The Illiana Garden Railway Society at Samuelson’s Nursery Train enthusiasts will enjoy the 2,000-squarefoot model railway featuring 600 feet of train and several trains. Open Apr–Oct Hours: Sat 10am–4pm Address: 295 North State Road 2, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6924 or 219-462-2708 Web: illianaroad.com Inman’s Bowling and Recreation Head to Inman’s for indoor fun like bowling, shooting pool and the game room, or enjoy outdoor attractions like miniature golf and go-carts. Hours: Mon-Tue 11am-11pm Wed-Sat 11am-midnight Sun 11am-10pm Address: 3201 Evans Avenue, 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: Mon., Wed 10am–6pm Tue, Thu–Fri. 10am–5pm Sat 10am–4pm Address: 103 East Morthland Drive (US Highway 30), Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-299-2270 Web: labeadalocabeads.com DRAGON AND GATORS: Hours: See website for track and shop hours. Address: King Hobbies and Raceway, 413 East 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, which features a 465-foot grass runway, a shelter and portable toilets. 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, including four 70-feet free fall slides, as well as a 500,000-gallon wave pool, a quarter-mile lazy river, two kids areas with splash features and waterslides, group cabanas and much more. Hours: Memorial Day weekend–Labor Day weekend, Mon-Sat 11am-8pm Address: 150 East US Highway 20 Phone: 260-627-4484 Web: sevenpeaks.com/duneland Hours: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm Sun 1-9pm Address: 55-57 West Monroe Street, 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: Sun-Thu 10am-10pm Fri-Sat 10am-11pm Address: 1050 Horseprairie Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-1194 Web: zaoisland.net Taltree Arboretum Railway Garden The Taltree Arboretum Railway Garden is a 2.5-acre model railway garden that engages visitors in the amazing story of America’s railroads. There’s even a 1920s-style railroad depot with vintage-style benches, panoramic views of the garden and a gift shop. Taltree is also a great place for a nature walk. Admission fees apply. Railway Garden Hours: April-Oct: 8am-7pm daily Arboretum Hours: April-Oct: 8am-7pm daily Nov-Mar: 10am-4pm daily Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org 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 Apr, May, Sep 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 North Calumet Avenue, 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 North Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3500 Web: theportdrivein.net Want some fun? Visit Zao Island amusement center for mini-golf, laser tag, go-carts, batting cages and, if you can believe it, a three-story tall dragon and live alligators. 16 Sweet Treats Indiana Dunes Country the place to satisfy your ice cream and dessert cravings By Ken Kosky When you order an ice cream cone at Piggies and Cream at the Depot in Kouts, you can be sure that it wasn’t manufactured with artificial flavors by some large corporation hundreds of miles away. That’s because Piggies and Cream makes its own ice cream -- just as they make many of the other menu offerings. “We just like to do a lot of unique, homemade things,” owner Chris Birky says. What that means is that the mint chocolate chip ice cream has real mint grown in a field in nearby North Judson. And it means Piggies and Cream can create new flavors when a customer comes up with a great idea. Piggies and Cream makes more than 25 flavors, a dozen of which are available at any one time. When in Kouts, try “The Mustang,” a chocolate and peanut butter ice cream. Birky also welcomes people at his bakery, Birky’s Bakery & Coffee Shop in Kouts. Indiana Dunes Country’s most famous ice cream is at Valpo Velvet in Valparaiso, which was named one of the Top 10 Places for Ice Cream in Indiana. People who’ve traveled the world have told Cathy Brown there is no finer ice cream than the rich, creamy, old-fashioned kind Designer Desserts that’s made and sold at Valpo Velvet. Although the five simple ingredients in the basic mix haven’t changed over the years, unique new flavors have been added. They now make 65 to 70 different kinds. Valpo Velvet also offers tours. Other local shops serving up frozen goodness include DariDip in Portage, Dog Days Ice Cream Parlor in Chesterton, and, in Valparaiso, Kernels and Kones, Pat’s Ice Cream Parlor and YoAmazing Yogurt Shoppe. Cupakes, candy, popcorn and more... Indiana Dunes Country is known for more than ice cream. People come from all around to enjoy the famously beautiful and delicious cupcakes and other desserts from Designer Desserts in Valparaiso. It’s hard to pick a favorite among the 80 flavors of cupcakes with flavors such as key lime pie, dark chocolate raspberry, and creme brulee -- and seasonal flavors such as root beer float, watermelon fizz, and peppermint mocha. Another Valparaiso favorite is Simply Amazing Market, where gourmet popcorn and fudge is made and packaged by some pretty remarkable people -- the clients at Opportunity Enterprises. Your purchase will leave you satisfied and will benefit adults with disabilities. Valparaiso is also home to Kernels and Kones/Kim’s Specialty Chocolates, a shop next to Piggies and Cream downtown’s Central Park where people can get popcorn, ice cream cones and handmade candies. Across from the same park is the bright and cheery Sticky Fingers Candy Co., which sells candies, chocolates and fudge. Downtown Valparaiso is also where you’ll find South Bend Chocolate Company’s fine chocolates and cafe offerings. Head to Chesterton and indulge at Sweetville, a fudge factory and candy shop, or enjoy beautiful and tasty cakes, cupcakes and cookies from Chesterton Cake Shoppe. Another popular Chesterton eatery is Tonya’s Patisserie, a bakery cafe with awesome desserts and pastries, fresh breads and daily lunches. Visit www.IndianaDunes.com to learn more about all the great places to find ice cream and other sweet treats in Indiana Dunes Country. INDIANADUNES.COM 17 History & Culture Valparaiso University Historic Tours Century of Progress Homes The Century of Progress Homes, originally constructed for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair, were built to demonstrate modern architectural design, experimental materials and new technologies like air conditioning and dishwashers. Drive or walk past them year-round, or take a look inside during the annual architectural tour in October. Hours: Hours: Annual tour is generally third Saturday in October, with tickets on sale second Monday in September. See website for details. Address: Lakeshore 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. Not only are the haunted tours informative—you may also get to experience your own brush with paranormal activity. 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 18 Chesterton and Porter Walking Tours Visit Westchester Township History Museum/The Brown Mansion to pick up walking tour guides for Chesterton ($1) or Porter (free; east and west side guides available). 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: Wed–Sun 1–5pm; walking can be done at your leisure Address: 700 West Porter Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum Downtown Valparaiso Walking Tours Take a spin through the architectural history of Valparaiso on one of eight walking tours. See elegant and unique houses on Washington Street, linger at the boutiques and bistros on Lincolnway and marvel at the impressive Courthouse Square. Visit the website to print selfguided tour brochures—the Courthouse Square brochure is especially informative. Guided tours are generally done once a month in the summer. 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 Memorial Opera House Wolf Mansion Several times each year, Wolf Mansion, a private residence on the National Historic Register, opens for tours. And throughout the year, the home hosts parties and events. The 7,800-square-foot mansion was built in 1875 by Josephus Wolf. Hours: Call or see website for events and tours Address: 453 West 700 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-364-8102 Web: wolfmansion.net Museums Alton Goin Museum This museum, located inside Countryside Park and operated by the Portage Community Historical Society, houses many cultural artifacts from the Portage region. Nearby stands the historic Trager farmhouse and outbuildings. Enjoy a walk through the park after learning about the area’s history. Hours: Apr-Nov: Sat-Sun 1-4pm; Fri. by apppointment (farmhouse open Sat only); special Christmas hours Address: 5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8349 during museum hours or 219-762-1675 Web: rootsweb.ancestry.com/~inpchs/ Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm Bailly Homestead is named after Joseph Bailly, the first known non-native resident of Northwest Indiana, who set up a fur trading post here in 1822. The Bailly Cemetery is a 0.8 mile hike from the homestead. The restored Chellberg farmhouse looks much as it did in the late 1800s and features a barn and other carefully restored outbuildings. These two historic sites are located just 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 US Highway 20 and US Highway 12, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Brauer Museum of Art Wander through seven galleries filled with selections from the museum’s permanent collection of more than 3,000 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. Depot of Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery Stagecoach Inn & Panhandle Depot This tiny, pink stucco museum pays homage to the town’s history and groundbreaking architecture. It’s also the spot where you can catch the only inter-urban train line in Indiana Dunes Country. While you’re waiting for your train, check out the intimate gallery—an everrotating display of paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, woodcarving and fiber art. Gallery features local artists and gift shop features local products. Groups may call to schedule visits. 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: May-Oct: Fri-Sun 11am-3pm (wine and cheese reception 5-7pm first Friday of each month during season); 4th of July to Labor Day Mon. 11am-3pm Address: 525 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-878-1517 Web: bevshrshistsoc.org Hour Glass House Museum The museum focuses on the history of the people, homes and organizations of Ogden Dunes and the art of local artists. Included are materials about Dale Messick, Dorothy Buell, the 1920s ski jump and the wreck of a 19th-century lake schooner. Hours: 3rd Sun of the month 4–5:30pm; tours available by appointment through website Address: 8 Lupine Lane, Ogden Dunes, IN 46368 Phone: Please contact through website Web: odhistory.org Hours: Jun–Sep: 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month Noon–3pm or by appointment. Open by appointment only the rest of the year Address: 127 North Main Street, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: (219) 996-3192 Westchester Township History Museum/The Brown Mansion This free, family-friendly museum offers tours of the restored historic 1885 home of a wealthy area family. Monthly public programs, an exhibit tracing the history of the Indiana Dunes and surrounding area from the Ice Age to 1981, temporary exhibits and a museum store are located in the same building. Hours: Wed–Sun 1–5pm or by appointment Address: 700 West Porter Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9715 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum Valparaiso Fire Museum Porter County Museum of History 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—because they’re always finding new artifacts, every trip is a fresh adventure. Hours: Wed, Fri-Sat 9am-5pm, Thu 9am-8pm Address: 153 South Franklin Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3595 Web: portercountymuseum.org The museum offers a fascinating view of firefighting 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: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm (curator on site Tue-Wed) Address: 3701 Innovation Way, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6161 Web: tft.com Hours: Tue, Thu–Fri. 10am–5pm Wed 10am–8:30pm Sat–Sun Noon–5pm Address: Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-5365 Web: valpo.edu/artmuseum AHEAD OF THEIR TIME The Century of Progress Homes on Lake Michigan in Beverly Shores were originally constructed for the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair to demonstrate new design and materials, and new technology like air conditioning. People can walk past the homes year round, or sign up for the annual tour in October. INDIANADUNES.COM 19 The Place For Kids Enjoy Kid-Friendly Activities! By Ken Kosky Indiana Dunes Country is the perfect place for kids to burn off some energy running up and down sand dunes or building giant sand castles. But it’s also a place where they can drive go-carts, splash at a water park, tour a bison farm, see one of the nation’s best model railway gardens, catch an IMAX movie or enjoy the experience at an old-fashioned drive-in theater. There are also numerous kid-friendly restaurants and ice cream parlors. Here’s the scoop on fun for kids... Sand And Splashing The top reason families bring their kids to Indiana Dunes Country is to experience the Indiana Dunes and all it has to offer -- sand dunes that reach nearly 200 feet into the sky, 70 miles of hiking trails and 15 miles of glorious Lake Michigan coastline for playing in the sand or splashing in the water. Dunes visitors can check out Indiana Dunes State Park or one of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore access sites. Indiana Dunes Country is also home to another place to splash in the water -- Seven Peaks Waterpark Duneland in Porter. Seven Peaks is one of the largest water parks in Indiana, with 15 water slides -- everything from 70-foot tall free fall drop-slides to kiddie slides. In addition to the water slides, Seven Peaks features a 500,000-gallon wave pool, a quarter-mile Lazy River, kids areas with splash features, group cabanas and food choices ranging from fast food to health food. Other Great Attractions Indiana Dunes Country is home to two amusement centers -- Zao Island Amusement Park and Inman’s Bowling and Recreation, both in Valparaiso. Inman’s features go-carts, mini-golf, bowling and more. Zao Island is home to mini-golf, go-carts, laser tag, batting cages, a baby alligator feeding area and an onsite pizzeria and bar. Another great spot is the Taltree Arboretum Railway Garden in Valparaiso, where the train master has seen visitors leave amazed and impressed. The railway garden’s wonderful waterfalls, elaborate bridges, impressive 14-foot change in elevation, and its more than 3,500 tiny trees and bushes 20 Learn more about all the fun things for kids to see and do by checking out our Kids Guide at indianadunes.com/destinationguides are a hit with both kids and adults. The trains currently run daily from April to October. Kids will recognize Thomas the Tank Engine chugging around the bend. Another popular spot is Broken Wagon Bison Farm, located west of Valparaiso. Groups can arrange a tour, or individuals can take part in the open tours at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturdays from June through September. Visitors can see bison up close and purchase bison jerky and other products in the farm store. And if you love movies, you’ll be blown away by the coolness of IMAX on an eight-stories-high screen at Portage 16 IMAX. Or, for a touch of nostalgia, why not watch movies under the stars at 49er Drivein Theatre in Valparaiso? 49er co-owner Steven Cotton says a trip to the drive-in movie theatre means arriving early to run around and play. It means getting to see two movies instead of one. And it means eating something delicious from the concession stand. “To me, it’s a much nicer experience and it’s a lot more fun,” Cotton says. “It’s an experience.” Grab a bite to eat After a day of playing, there are plenty of places to eat or grab a snack. The locals know to grab a frosty mug of root beer and a chili dog at The Port Drive-In in Chesterton. Another fun spot for kids is Quaker Steak & Lube in Portage, where full-size cars and motorcycles decorate the restaurant. Or enjoy ice cream from Valpo Velvet in Valparaiso or Piggies and Cream in Kouts. For more ideas about fun things to do and places to eat, view the complete Kids Guide to Indiana Dunes Country at www.indianadunes.com/destination-guides/ electronic-guides/. 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. Cost: Free. Events: Ice Skating Rink, Winter Fest, Soapbox Derby Fireworks: July 3rd, 4th of July Parade & Activities - July 4th Town wide Yard Sale, Annual Town Block Party: Sept. 13th Mr. & Mrs. Clause Address: 199 Professional Ct., Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: (Town Hall) 219-996-4641 Web: www.visithebron.org Hours: Dawn-dusk, weather permitting ADVERTISEMENT Hoosier Bat Company Broken Wagon Bison Farm Call ahead and set up a tour. You’ll see baseball bats for major league players being made right in front of you. And don’t forget to get your very own personalized mini-bat in the gift shop. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Address: 4511 East Evans Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-1006 or 800-228-3787 At this family owned farm, you can take a wagon tour and meet a herd of more than 100 American Bison. Afterward purchase a variety of Bison meat products and browse the gift shop. Group tours are available by appointment. Tour fee applies. Address: 563 West 450 North Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-3523 Web: brokenwagonbison.com Web: hoosierbat.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Porter County Parks and Recreation Brassie Golf Club The Brassie Golf Club is a semi-private The Brassie Golf Club 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. Enter a gateway to the beauty of Indiana Dunes Country through the unique parks and trails of Porter County Parks and Recreation. There’s something for everyone: breathtaking landscapes, trails and gardens, enriching wellness programs, inspirational art classes, engaging field trips, extraordinary summer camps and much more. Follow us on Facebook! Address: 1110 Pearson Rd, Chesterton, IN 46304 Address: 155 Indiana Avenue, Suite 304, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-921-1192 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: portercountyparks.org Web: www.thebrassie.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 21 Arts & Entertainment W atch a world-class performance on an internationally acclaimed stage, get engrossed in a big blockbuster or enjoy fantastic live music. Schoolhouse Shop Movie Theaters 49er Drive-In Theatre Enjoy the neat-o aspects of a 1950s drive-in and modern convenience. For the price of one ticket, you get a kids movie and a grown-up film—many just premiering. Be sure to check out the concession stand, with everything from Junior Mints to pizza and burgers. Operating season: Generally open weekends during Apr, May, Sep 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 North Calumet Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-6122 Web: 49erdrivein.com 22 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 Boulevard (at State Road 49 and State Road 2), Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-0260 Web: cinemark.com Portage 16 IMAX Get blown away at the only place in Northern Indiana offering the coolness of IMAX on an eightstories-high screen. The 15 other screens show just about all the other new movies. Address: 6550 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-7469 Web: gqti.com Theaters and Live Performances 4th Street Theater At this award-winning community theater, see blockbuster musicals and more. Call or check website for schedule. Address: 125 North 4th Street, 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 West Chicago Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-1636 Web: chicagostreet.org Front Porch Music Memorial Opera House The main floor has the area’s largest selection of music supplies and the upstairs contains a full-service repair shop. On the lowest level is a 72-seat coffeehouse that brings in local, national and international artists on a regular basis. Every week, the owners hold an open stage night where artists of all talent levels can jam. 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. Retail Hours: Mon.–Fri. 10am–8pm Sat 9am–4pm Open Stages: Thu 7:30pm–close (signup starts at 7pm) Concerts: Check website for details Address: 505 East Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4700 Web: frontporchmusic.com Address: 104 Indiana Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-548-9137 Web: mohlive.com Valparaiso Theatrical Company This group travels to different venues to put on plays that raise money for a variety of charities. Their mission is to offer professional theater at an affordable price while giving to charitable causes. Call or check website for schedule. Address: Various venues, Valparaiso, IN Phone: 219-242-8005 Web: valparaisotheatricalcompany.org Valparaiso University Center for the Arts MADE IN INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY: Valpo U’s performing arts program is internationally known for its excellence, and its epicenter is in their gorgeously designed Center for the Arts. Any time of the year, you’ll be wowed by stellar on-stage performances and exhibitions of music, theater and dance. The Center is also home to the world-renowned Brauer Museum of Art. Call or check website for schedule. Address: 1709 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-6950 Web: valpo.edu/vuca Valparaiso Concerts in the Park Summer Outdoor Concerts Bring a blanket or a lawn chair and enjoy an outdoor summer concert in Indiana Dunes Country. In Chesterton, enjoy Friday evening concerts followed by movies in Thomas Centennial Park or one of the concerts at Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve. Valparaiso is home to concert events downtown, as well as concerts at Taltree Arboretum. Portage has a concert series at Woodland Park. CHESTERTON Chesterton Bandstand Concert and Family Film Series Hours: 7pm Fridays in June, July and through mid-August Address: Thomas Centennial Park, Broadway and Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 (if it rains, event moves indoors to nearby Library Service Center, 100 West Indiana Avenue) Phone: 219-926-7696 Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum/ and click on Library Calendar of Events Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve concerts Hours: Select days and times. See website for schedule. Address: Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve, State Road 49 and Voyage Boulevard, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1842 Find us on Facebook Stephanie Swanson Jewelry Design in Chesterton makes and sells beach glass jewelry, and Stephanie is just one of many local artists and artisans. See page 54 for more locally-made items. Memorial Opera House PORTAGE Portage Summer Music in the Park Series Hours: 6pm Tuesdays on about 12 nights during the summer (see website for schedule) Address: Woodland Park, 2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 (outside, but moved inside if weather is inclement) Phone: 219-762-5025 Web: portagemusic.com VALPARAISO Taltree Arboretum Concert Series Hours: Select days and times. Check website. Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Valparaiso Concerts in the Park Hours: Select days and times. Check website. for schedule. Address: Central Park, Lincolnway and Lafayette Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-8332 Web: valparaisoevents.com INDIANADUNES.COM 23 Recreation Imagination Glen Park Indiana Dunes State Park Hiking & Biking Calumet Trail Crushed gravel, adjacent to Indiana Dunes State Park, National Lakeshore and South Shore Line tracks. Various parking areas along trail, camping nearby. Address: Access points include US Highway 12 and Mineral Springs Road, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: indianadunes.com/parks-and-recreation Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore—Glenwood Dune Trail Natural wooded trail, picnic tables, modern restrooms, parking at both trail heads. Bring your horse and share the trail. Address: Brummitt Road and US Highway 20, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu Seven natural trails for people of all levels of ability. Parking, picnic tables, modern restrooms, ranger-led programming and seasonal events. Cross-country skiing on 3 in. base—bring own equipment, camping area. Admission charge applies. Address: 1600 North 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1952 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Outback Trail at Imagination Glen Park Mountain bikers can get their kicks at the Outback Trail at Imagination Glen Park, a professional-level, 10-mile length of tight and twisting turns around logs, roots and jumps. Imagination Glen also has soccer and softball fields and much more. Hours: Dawn-dusk Address: 2275 McCool Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: outbacktrail.org Prairie-Duneland Trail Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore—Tolleston Dunes Description: This trail traverses a number of different, beautiful and wildlife-rich habitats, including black oak savanna, Tolleston Dunes and remnants of the Great Marsh. Address: US Highway 12, two miles west of State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu 24 12 ft. wide paved trail with many access points, picnic tables, water fountains, bike racks, strollers and in-line skates welcome. Parking at various locations including Countryside Park, Willowcreek Road, Airport Road and Imagination Glen Park. Address: Access points include Countryside Park, 5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46304 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/department/division. php?fDD=8-114 Indiana Dunes State Park Steel Wheels BMX Track Check out the fun indoors on the dirt-racing track in Hobart. Or head to Portage at their outdoor track, which hosts ABA-sanctioned races. The track is open to the public Tuesday and Friday nights, and the staff hosts clinics. Hours: Portage track open May-Sep Tue, Fri. 6-9pm; Hobart track open only in winter Address: State Road 149, ¾ miles south of US Highway 20, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-406-9833 Web: steelwheelsbmx.com West Beach Trail Natural trails, some sand covered, parking near beach. Cross-country skiing on 3 in. base—bring own equipment. Parking fee applies. Address: North County Line Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: nps.gov/indu For more hiking, biking and birding information, go to IndianaDunes.com/ destination-guides and request our Biking Guide, Birding Guide and Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail Guide. Blastcamp Paintball Butler Winery Come play Paintball on a decommissioned Army base! We cater to first time players and provide everything you need for a safe and fun day of play. On-site pro-shop, concessions, indoor restrooms and parents area available. 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. Hours: Memorial Day - Labor Day thur/ fri. 10-5 sat/ sun 9-4 Labor Day - Memorial Day sat/ sun 9-4, weekdays by appointment Address: 563 West 600 North Hobart, IN 46342 Address: 401 Broadway Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-947-7733 Phone: 219-929-1400 Web: www.blastcamp.com Web: www.butlerwinery.com ADVERTISEMENT Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Your escape awaits… This beautiful 360-acre oak preserve of formal gardens, woodlands, wetlands and prairies offers a variety of events, classes and exhibits. Guests can escape into its diverse landscape via hiking trails, beautiful vistas and quiet corners. This dog-friendly, green space initiative is home to 112 unique taxa of oaks, many rare plant and animal species and a railway garden of miniature steam engine trains and trees. Admission: $10 (13 to 54 years old), $8 (55+ years old) $5 (5 to 12 years old) and free (4 years old and under). Members are free. ADVERTISEMENT Seven Peaks Duneland Waterpark Seven Peaks Duneland Waterpark brings on the fun and excitement with 15 water slides, including 70ft free fall drop slides, kid areas with splash features, 650,000 gallon wave pool and so much more! Come see how the Fun Never Ends with Seven Peaks! The Chicagoland Pass of All Passes is not your average waterpark season pass, it includes access to multiple entertainment and sport venues throughout the Chicagoland Area providing year round enjoyment for everyone! Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Address: 1275 North Waverly Road, Porter, Indiana 46304 Web : Taltree.org Web : www.sevenpeaks.com/duneland Phone: 260-627-4484 Phone: 219-462-0025 ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 25 Kayaking KAYAK AND CANOE RENTALS Miller’s Marine Center Dunn’s Bridge County Park Rent kayaks, canoes, small fishing boats and powerboats at this marine center near Lake Michigan. 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: indianadunes.com/parks-and-recreation/ 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 North 25 East, Chesterton (State Road 49, north of US Highway 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 North Meridian Road, 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. Address: 1305 State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8767 Web: mwmarina.com Rogers-Lakewood Park (small lakes) Address: 5320 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 GPS: Lat: 41.5194 Long: -87.0656 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Fish caught: Northern pike, bass, bluegill, crappie, bullhead, catfish and walleye Fishing Dunn’s Bridge County Park (Kankakee River) TIP OF THE DAY: Address: South County Road 500 East, Kouts, IN 46347 GPS: Lat: 41.2215 Long: -86.9690 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: indianadunes.com/parks-and-recreation/ Fish caught: Northern pike, catfish, walleye, bass and bluegill Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk (Lake Michigan) Address: 6150 U.S. Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6310 Long: -87.1777 Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: ci.portage.in.us/department/division. php?fDD=8-192 Fish caught: Salmon, trout, bass, perch, carp, catfish and sheephead Cowles Bog Remember bug spray if you’re hiking at the Indiana Dunes in the summer. 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. Hours: Sunday - Thursday: 11am - 9pm Friday - Saturday: 11am - 10pm All American Starters Gourmet Industrial Burgers Brick Oven Pizzas Sandwiches Soups & Salads Revolutionary Originals Desserts Bar List Address: 1084 Linwood Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 4638 Phone: 219-465-1801 Web: www.industrialrevolutioneatery.com ADVERTISEMENT 26 Dunn’s Bridge Country Park Boating Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World 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: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm Sun 10am-7pm Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham Drive, Portage, IN 46368 GPS: Lat: 41.6035 Long: -87.1680 Phone: 219-787-6800 Web: basspro.com CMS Marine Boat Rentals On a hot summer day (or really any day at all), nothing beats power boating out onto Lake Michigan for an afternoon of watery fun. Sound good? Hit up CMS Marine—they’ll rent you a United States Coast Guard-equipped powerboat and get you on your way. Just make sure you have a reservation. Boat rental address: Portage Public Marina, 1200 Marina Way at State Road 249 and US Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368 Business address: 1027 N. State Road 149, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-508-3195 Portage Public Marina If you’ve brought your boat for a spin on Lake Michigan, here’s one of the places in the area to launch it. Portage Public Marina offers a public boat launch onto the lake (and it’s extremely affordable—bonus!). It’s also a great spot for you to bring your fishing pole and catch a big one. Hours: Apr-Oct: 7am-7pm daily Off-season: 8am-4pm daily Address: 1200 Marina Way at State Road 249 and US Highway 12, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-763-6833 Web: ci.portage.in.us/department/?fDD=4-0 Fee: $10 to launch Boat slips available South Shore Marina Offering boat slips, storage and service. With its knowledgeable and dedicated personnel, South Shore Marina, Inc. strives to provide its customers with the best products and services possible while maintaining a valued level of customer service. Address: 1700 Marine Drive, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-2304 Web: southshoremarinainc.com Charter Boating Hook up with one of our charter boat captains and head out on Lake Michigan for some great fishing or sightseeing. American Guide Service Phone: 219-331-4977 Brother Nature Fishing Adventures Phone: 877-725-6665 Web: brother-nature.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: charterfish.org/a_schellfish.html Triplecatch Charters Phone: 219-963-9204 or 219-588-5929 Web: amflyfishing.com Doyne’s Marine This boat storage facility has more than 55 years of experience in the area. Besides storage, they also offer docks and a launch ramp. Address: 1340 North Crisman Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-7622 Lefty’s Coho Landing Offers a variety of services for boaters, including boat launching onto Lake Michigan and a full-service boat marina. Address: 6161 Burns Waterway, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-7761 Marina Shores at Dune Harbor Seasonal and transient slips available, as well as gas and diesel, ice, snacks, pop and water. Hours: Mon-Thu 8am-4:30pm Fri-Sun 8am-6pm Address: 5976 Dune Harbor Drive, Portage, IN 46368 (across from Portage-Ogden Dunes South Shore train station) Phone: 219-762-5700 Web: marinashoresin.com Indiana Dunes Country is home to great fishing. Enjoy a one-of-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. Here are just a few of the many fishing spots. For a comprehensive guide to fishing, pick up a copy of our Fishing Guide at our Visitor Center or read it online: indianadunes.com/destination-guides Miller’s Marine Center Rent kayaks, canoes, small fishing boats and powerboats at this marine center, which also features 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 North Crisman Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8767 Web: mwmarina.com Lake Michigan INDIANADUNES.COM 27 The Course at Aberdeen Golfing The Brassie Golf Club Tee off at this semi-private, must-play 18-hole championship course. Designed by architect Jim Fazio, the link-style greens require accurate reading, a steady hand and laser-sharp focus. After you’ve played the back nine, relax at the patio of the snack bar or pick up some new equipment in the fully stocked golf shop. Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-8pm (may vary) Address: 1110 Pearson Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1192 Web: thebrassie.com Central Park Lighted Driving Range Practice your stroke at this open-day-or-night facility. Bring your own clubs, get a bucket of golf balls (small or medium) and swing, swing, swing away. The facility is open every day, weather permitting. Address: 5799 Central Avenue, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-4653 Golf enthusiasts, take note: this is currently the only public-play golf course in Northwest Indiana to receive a 5-star rating from Chicagoland Golf. Designed by Dr. Michael Hurdzan, this 72-par course has been designed so that every hole is distinct and unique—which means every tee-off presents a brand new challenge. Hours: 6am-6pm Address: 245 Tower Road, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-5050 Web: golfataberdeen.com Creekside Golf Course & Training Center Whether you’re a beginning golfer or a veteran hitter looking for a more intimate green experience, Creekside Golf Course has two different courses perfectly suited to your needs. Each pristine, manicured course has different tee boxes for different skill levels. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you can still swing away at the indoor golf simulator. Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-9pm Sat-Sun 7am-9pm Address: 2355 Clifford Road, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-531-7888 Web: creeksidegolfcourse.com Duck Creek Golf Course This 18-hole, par-70 course has a sneaky secret: the front nine play like many public courses, but the back nine kick it up a notch with an extremely challenging group of greens. It’s definitely worth the trip south to play this hidden gem of a course. Hours: Mon-Fri 7am-6pm Sat-Sun 6:30am-6pm Address: 636 North 700 West, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-5870 Web: duckcreekgolfcourse.com Forest Park Golf Course Forest Park Municipal Golf Course Forest Park Golf Course is a challenging 18-hole golf course with vistas, woods and a layout that players of all abilities will enjoy. The course has been consistently honored as one of the best public courses in Northwest Indiana. Hours: Jun-Aug: Mon-Fri 6:30am-dusk Sat-Sun 6am-dusk; opens 30 minutes earlier in May Address: 1155 Sheffield Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-531-7888 Web: forestparkgolfcourse.com Mink Lake Golf Course Built in 1930 on the Valparaiso Moraine, this 9-hole, regulation length, walking-only golf course prides itself on being the “sportiest course in Northwest Indiana.” Take heart, enthusiasts of all levels—this short layout has three sets of tee boxes so even the most wee of your group will have a fun golf experience. Hours: Mon-Sun Dawn-dusk Address: 636 North Calumet Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-2585 Rio’s Indoor Golf When the weather turns frightful, golfers will find Rio’s Indoor Golf to be delightful. Rio’s has a retail shop where you can pick up clubs and apparel. It also has two golf simulators, so you can call for a tee time and play golf in the winter. Instruction is also available. Hours: Mon-Sun 8am-8pm Oct 1-June 1 Closed in the summer Address: 1555 West Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-465-5200 Robbinhurst Golf Club & Driving Range Built on a pioneer estate that was settled in 1833, this full-service golf facility offers club rentals, lessons, club fitting, on-site repair, a pro shop and a fantastic 18-hole course with mature woodlands. Those who wish can hone their skills at the top-of-the-line driving range. Hours: Summer: Mon-Sun 6:30am-7pm Spring: Mon-Sun 7:30am-6pm Address: 383 West County Road 875 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-762-9711 Web: robbinhurst.com 28 Sporting Bases Loaded This indoor sports practice facility can accommodate individuals and teams with batting cages, an open practice area for several sports, lessons, and strength/conditioning classes. Hours: Mon-Fri 3pm-9pm Sat 10am-8pm Sun noon5pm (extended hours during school breaks) Address: 884 North 100 West, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-678-4487 Web: basesloadedllc.com Blastcamp Paintball Built on a former army base with 28 acres of bunkers, trenches, buildings and radar towers, this is hands-down the best paintball range in the Chicagoland area. There’s open play on weekends, and during the week, groups can make reservations and rent the whole place for a private game. And here’s a sweet deal—buy a new gun from them at their store on 318 Main Street in Hobart (open Mon-Fri 10am-5pm), and you’ll get a free one-year camp membership. Hours: Mon-Fri by appointment Sat-Sun 9am-4pm Address: 563 West 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. Everyone on staff is a hard-core enthusiast, so they’ll be able to answer any and all questions you shoot their way. Ammunition, targets and hearing protection are available on site. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-8pm Sat 9am-5:30pm Sun Noon-5pm Address: 2810 North Calumet Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-476-0026 Web: ihuntishoot.com The Courts of NWI Skateboard Parks Keep your game skills on the cutting edge at the biggest gym center in the area. Basketball courts, tennis courts, outdoor sand volleyball, batting cages, a concession stand—it’s the best place to be if you want to burn off energy playing your favorite game. Boarders, get ready to shred. Indiana Dunes Country has some pretty wicked parks with everything an enthusiast needs to show off: quarter pipes, street spines, fun boxes, grind rails and more. Grab your board and hit these gems. Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm Sun 1-9pm Address: 127 East US Highway 6, Valparaiso, IN 46838 Phone: 219-465-1111 Web: thecourtsofnwi.com Gump’s Dugout Practice America’s favorite sport at this handson facility. Get private lessons in hitting, pitching, throwing or catching for baseball and softball. You can practice as an individual, or sign up your entire team for some group instruction. Hours: By appointment only. Reservations required. Address: 1130 South 500 East, Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-766-3109 Hawthorne Park Disc Golf Course A disc golf course is new to Hawthorne Park, a peaceful, well-maintained place to stop, stretch, and enjoy a picnic. In the developed portion of the park, you’ll find picnic shelters, sports fields, playground and a community center. Address: 500 Ackerman Drive, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1687 Web: townofporter.com Rogers-Lakewood Park Disc Golf Course This challenging course lets players toss a couple dozen holes—over a lake, through trees, across wide-open spaces and even up and down large hills. Rogers-Lakewood is also home to a skate park (Flounder Skate Park; see listing below), running trails, rowboat and paddleboat rentals and more. CHESTERTON’S SKATE PARK Hours: Dawn-dusk Address: 108 South 15th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 (off Prairie-Duneland Trail) Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org FLOUNDER SKATE PARK Hours: Dawn-dusk Address: 5320 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org PORTAGE SKATE PARK AT WOODLAND PARK Hours: Dawn-dusk Address: 2100 North Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/parks Triple Crown Valparaiso Baseball & Softball Training Center Teams or individuals can work out, hone their baseball and softball skills and receive private lessons at this facility. Private hitting, pitching or catching instruction provided by instructors who have played at either the college or professional level—like Lloyd McClendon. Hours: Walk in hours for cage rental Tue 4-6pm Thu 6-8pm Sat 10am-12pm; call to reserve cages at other times Address: 2902 Cascade Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-3927 Web: triplecrownvalpo.com Hours: Dawn-dusk Address: 5320 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org West Beach INDIANADUNES.COM 29 Bowling, Billiards & Skating Camelot Bowling Center Get ready for some high-octane, adrenalinefueled fun at this tricked-out sportsplex. Go bowling, shoot some pool at the billiards tables, play games in the arcade or grab some grub at their on-site pizzeria. Hours: Mon-Wed 9am-11pm Thu-Fri 4-11pm Sat-Sun Noon-4pm open bowl Address: 5201 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-8558 Web: camelotbowlingcenter.com Hebron Lanes Tie on your bowling shoes, grab a ball and hit the alleys at this 16-lane bowling alley in Hebron. Hebron Lanes has been in the area for generations, so you’ll see all ages hitting the lanes. Enjoy a slice at the attached Bronko’s Pizza, and for the 21-and-older crowd, the bar serves good (and inexpensive) beer. Hours: Mon., Tue & Thu 11am-5:30pm Wed 11am-9pm Fri. 11am-5:30pm (with some lanes open after 5:30) Sat 1-11pm Sun Noon-8pm Address: 725 State Road 2, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-7271 Inman’s Bowling and Recreation For a family-friendly, fun-filled adventure, head to Inman’s Fun and Party Center. Knock down pins on one of their 32 bowling lanes, tee up at their putt-putt course or take a spin on their go-cart track. If you want to jazz it up, do their glow-inthe-dark Cosmic Bowl, complete with laser lights and music. 100% smoke-free facility. Hours: Mon-Tue 11am-11pm Wed-Sat 11am-midnight Sun 11am-10pm Address: 3201 Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1300 Web: inmansvalpo.com Seven Peaks Bowling and Fun Center Lake Michigan The folks that operate Seven Peaks Waterpark keep the fun going year round with Seven Peaks Bowling and Fun Center. Enjoy a day of family fun with both league and open bowling, arcades, redemption prizes, great tasting food, party packages and so much more. They offer the best in family entertainment with something for everyone. Most of Indiana Dunes Country’s best places to swim are in the State Park and National Lakeshore: West Beach, Porter Beach, Kemil Beach, Dunbar Beach, the State Park Beach, Central Avenue and the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk. Check out pages 4–7 for more information on these sites. Hours: Mon-Thu 3-9pm Fri. 3-11pm Sat noon-11pm Address: 124 North 8th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-2523 Web: sevenpeaks.com Pleasant Township Pool TJ’s Pocket Billiards TJ’s is the only billiard parlor in the area, and its 13 tables are definitely worth a trip if you’re handy with a cue and chalk. Bring your own accessories or snag ‘em there—there’s a great rental shop that sells stuff, too. It’s a perfect spot for a lazy evening hang-out and an inside complement to an outdoor day in Indiana Dunes Country. Hours: Mon-Fri 2pm-close Sat-Sun 12pm-close Address: 6510 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46868 Phone: 219-762-5275 Web: tjspocketbilliards.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 on the available fields. Hours: 9am–9pm Address: 253 Haglund Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-787-8126 Web: burnsharbor.org/park.htm Stop in and swim for the day, or ask about swimming lessons or private swimming parties. The daily admission is $3.50; $2.50 after 5pm. Children under 3 years old are free. The pool, which is outdoors, is open seven days a week (weather permitting) from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Hours: 12:30–8pm Address: 812 West Sunset Drive, 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 for $2 (senior), $5 (youth), $8 (adult) or $15 (family). Hours: Mon-Fri 5:30am-9pm Sat 7am-5pm Sun Noon-5pm (open swim Mon-Sat 10am-5pm Sun Noon-5pm) Address: 215 Roosevelt Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4204 Web: dunelandymca.org Valparaiso YMCA Enjoy this new YMCA’s indoor swimming and other activities for the day for $7 (youth), $10 (high school), $15 (adult) or $20 (family). See the website or call for the open swim and pool schedule. Hours: Mon.–Fri. 5am–10pm Sat 7am–6pm Sun 12:30–6pm Address: 1201 Cumberland Crossing Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-4185 Web: valpoymca.org R-Way Skate Center It’s a blast from the past to the days when roller rinks were the spot to be and everyone gathered to show off their sweet wheel skills. Open only on the weekend, this is one of the only places in the area for the simple joy of rink skating. Ankles tired? Hit the arcade or grab some chow from the snack bar. Hours: Fri-Sun nights plus weekend afternoons (hours vary, call to confirm) Address: 3600 Scottsdale Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-759-2556 “Like” them on Facebook West Beach 30 Community Parks & Gardens Drazer Park Rogers-Lakewood Park This park has tennis courts, a large playground, a field for soccer, softball and baseball, a shelter and picnic areas. Alyea Park Address: West end of Daumer Road, Kouts, IN 46347 Phone: 219-766-3312 Web: koutsindiana.org You can’t beat Rogers-Lakewood for variety—a disc golf course, skate park, trails, rowboat and paddleboat rentals, shelters, playground and sledding in the winter. Entrance fee. Alyea Park features playground equipment, tennis and basketball courts, a shelter and picnic tables and a gazebo. 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: By appointment only Address: 427 Furness Road, Pine Township, IN 46360 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: indianadunes.com/parks-and-recreation Central Park A downtown community green space where visitors can enjoy year-round activities, like a farmers market, concerts and summer evening movies. The park features a performance pavilion, a splash pad for kids of all ages and more. Butterfly Meadows at Foundation Meadows Park Designers from Little Tykes created this play area to combine fitness and learning. You’ll see butterfly migration paths on an interactive map and push buttons to hear birdcalls on-demand on a colorful playground slide. Address: Campbell Street and Bullseye Lake Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Hawthorne Park Enjoy a playground, gazebo, community center, picnic shelters, sand volleyball court, basketball courts and a baseball field. Address: 775 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3586 Web: indianadunes.com/parks-and-recreation Taltree Arboretum Enjoy miles of walking trails and see woods, gardens, a pond and prairies. Taltree also features a large model railway garden and a summer concert series. Entrance fee. Imagination Glen Park This park has a gazebo and picnic tables, and is home to many festivals and events like summer movies. Chesterton Park/Friendship Land Park Address: 2275 McCool Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/parks Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve Find several miles of trails, picnic and play areas, an amphitheater and scheduled events. Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Address: Lincolnway and Lafayette Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Address: 5th Street, between Morgan Avenue and Porter Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chesteronin.org Sunset Hill Farm County Park Address: 500 Ackerman Drive (off Franklin Street), Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1687 Web: townofporter.com Imagination Glen features a playground, picnic areas, soccer and softball fields and more. Mountain bikers can get their kicks on the Outback Trail, a professional-level, 10-mile challenge. These two parks, located next to each other, feature a baseball field, tennis and basketball courts, a large playground, restrooms and a shelter. Address: 5320 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org 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. Thomas Centennial Park and Gazebo Address: Calumet Road and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org Valplayso Park A great playground where kids can spend hours climbing, sliding, crawling and running. Restrooms and picnic areas available. Address: Glendale Boulevard, just east of Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Woodland Park Address: State Road 49 and Voyage Boulevard, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1842 Find us on Facebook Hours: 9am-9pm Address: 1200 Lakeland Park Drive, Burns Harbor, IN 46304 Phone: 219-787-8126 Web: burnsharbor.org/park.htm The center of the Portage Parks, Woodland Park features a skate park, playground, boulder play area, natural areas for walking, places to play sports, a dog park, picnic areas, a war memorial and a community center. Countryside Park Ogden Gardens Address: 2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/parks A relaxing place to walk or picnic, with water features, trails and a shelter. This park is home to the Portage Historical Society and the Alton Goin Museum, and it also features a fishing pond, nature trails, a playground, a shelter and a sledding hill in the winter. Address: 5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46304 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/parks 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: Campbell Street and Harrison Boulevard, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Dogwood Park This is the park to enjoy softball, volleyball, soccer, basketball and horseshoes. There is also a playground, restrooms and shelters. Address: 23rd Street and 1100 North, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chesteronin.org Hawthorne Park Kankakee Sands INDIANADUNES.COM 31 Indiana Dunes Birding Dunes area one of top birding spots in Midwest By Ken Kosky For an avid birder like Brad Bumgardner, the best thing about working at Indiana Dunes State Park is that his binoculars never have to collect dust -- even if it’s not the busy spring and fall bird migration times. “There’s something going on every month. Any time of year, you can see something,” says Bumgardner, an interpretive naturalist for Indiana Dunes State Park. “The Indiana Dunes, for birdwatching, is the top spot in Indiana. We’re one of the best spots on Lake Michigan and one of the top three sites in the Midwest or Great Lakes for birding.” Just like in real estate, good birding is all about location, location and Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area location.The Indiana Dunes’ location at the southern tip of Lake Michigan creates a “funnel effect,” funneling birds along the shoreline as they migrate. And even in the winter, when birders put up their binoculars in other parts of the Midwest, dunes birders are rewarded with sights like snowy owls. Bumgardner says there are at least 369 species of birds identified in the dunes area. Not only does the dunes area boast a variety of birds, but it also shows higher numbers of them than in other Midwest locations. 32 “People come from several states to bird the dunes,” Bumgardner says. “We have gotten folks from all over the world.” Indiana Dunes State Park is a popular stop for birders because it has so many habitats, so it attracts many species. He says the opening of the bird observation platform on the west side of the park is just one more way to enhance the birdwatching experience. The park offers regularly scheduled hikes that are good for birdwatching, bird-related events and a field trip to see the tens of thousands of sandhill cranes that come to Jasper-Pulaski Fish Kankakee Sands and Wildlife Area. There is also plenty for birders to see at the nearby Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore sites as well, Bumgardner says. National Lakeshore Supervisory Park Ranger Bruce Rowe says the Great Marsh Trail is a great trail for waterfowl, and Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk has become a popular spot when birds are migrating. The Heron Rookery is another great birding spot, he says. To enhance the birding experience, Bumgardner recommends people pick up a birding field guide and Kenneth J. Brock’s book Birds of the Indiana Dunes. For more information about birding in Indiana Dunes Country, visit www.indianadunes.com/beyond-the-beach/ birding or read the Indiana Dunes Country Birding Guide at www. indianadunes.com/destination-guides/electronic-guides/. Visit www.in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm to see Dunes State Park’s monthly calendar. INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY PULL OUT MAP INDIANADUNES.COM 33 E 1 8 1 s t Av e Randolph St County Line Rd W Division Rd er 2 Hills Southport Dr Sagers Lake Porter County Porter County Regional AirportAirport Regional r Rd Valparaiso University Mo rthla n d Dr Valparaiso University Sage PORTER COUNTY W 550 S W 750 S 8 Sunset Dr 49 E 100 N E 900 S E 400 S Murvihill Rd Innovation Way E 3 00 S M al d e n E 550 S E 600 S I n d i a n a Av e K o ut s 49 Daumer Rd S 150 E W 100 N Lake Eliza Riv 30 E Division Rd E 100 S E 200 N E 200 S State Hwy Stream State Line County Line Local Rd Secondary Rd Freeway US Hwy S 600 E Toll Freeway Interstate S 500 E W 100 S kee Main S t Big Bass Lake 2 W 650 S W 700 S W 900 S H e b ron W 725 S Professional Ct L ak e s of t h e Fou r S e as on s 231 Pr att St Church St Dog Lake Adams St 2 231 nka S 450 E US or State Hwy W 1600 S W 500 S La Cro ss e 421 Wana tah San 34 N 500 W S 500 W Ka E 1200 S S 350 E Sm ok e Rd S Smoke Rd d eR ms Bri dg B au S 225 W S 250 W N 600 W S 600 W S 625 W Main St S 400 W N 350 W Av e INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY Dune Ac re s Du 12 Lak eF ron tD r Be ver ly D r E 1500 N Town o f P ines River E 1400 N alumet rl R d E Coolspring Ave Greenwood Ave Mi chi gan City an ichig W M lvd B St 8th Ea 421 South Lake W S n y d e r Rd vil k W J oli et Rd le ee Cr 421 W 800 S 421 es lt W 300 S W 400 S lm 0N ica St go Ch Wes tvi ll e Ho 95 Clear Lake F r a n k l in S t N E E 400 N E 900 N E 1275 N N County Line Rd Bev erl y Sho res 20 Little C E Fu rn e s s Rd 94 E 1300 N Rd E 1200 N Burdick Rice Lake N 600 E d 6 ve Furnleigh Lane rR E 1225 N de a Sum E 600 N E 500 N 2 al A Furnessville Rd Indiana Dunes State Park y es un hore s a D ian ake Ind nal L tio Hw Na nes In dian Bou nd ar y Rd s Rd r Av e r a t eb a 49 E 400 N Carlson Pond E 750 N ET E Porte Schneider Lake 49 Che st e r t o n W Porter Ave Woodlawn Ave Porter Oak Hi l l R d W 1100 N W 1050 N 80 Wav erly Rd W 900 N E Vale Park Rd E 300 N ntr Sa 6 W 700 N 90 Lake Michigan wy B ur ns H a r bo r D u nes H 20 orter Old P Rd C roc k e r W 550 N 600 N Long Lake Loomis Lake Flint Lake B u r l i n g t o n B e a c h Rd Bullseye Lake Rd Silver Lake E v a n s Av e Va l p a r a i s o N 500 E 500 E ay ad w 35 INDIANADUNES.COM Ce O gd e n Du n e s Ameriplex Dr Little Calumet River 249 W 875 N 149 So ut h Haven W 500 N lnw Ranso m Rd co LaPorte Ave N 550 E Po rt o f India na 12 Stagecoach 94 Melton Rd P o r t a g e Av e W 600 N 130 W heeler W 450N W 400 N Lin ay E Lincolnwa y 450 E N 450 E Hit chc ock S t S 1100 W N 250 E Bro N 400 E N 400 E E Stat e P ark Rd Rd Br u m m i t t n Min er al S pr ings Rd Joli e t Rd Li n c ol n N 350 E nR d Babcock Rd N 200 W Veden Rd Ma Portage Sam ue lson Rd Hadenfelt Rd N C a l u m e t Av e N 50 W N 75 W C e n t r a l Av e S t o n e Av e W 700 N Swa ns o n R d N 300 E Old N 325 E Lo Lakeng Rd e t Av ume Cal E 10th St o r th Rd N 325 E N Mer idian Rd M eridian Rd Campbell St N 500 W Pearson Rd N 150 W Willowcreek Rd W 300 N 30 Tower Rd N 2 50 W O a k Av e Ainsw 73r O l d L d Av e incol n High way N 700 W Rd N 625 W McCool Rd N 400 W k Cr ee Sa lt N 450 W N 475 W PULL OUT MAP Coun ty LIne Rd Christine Livingston, Indiana Dunes Toursim 36 Gray Goose Inn Hampton Inn & Suites Valparaiso Turn off the bustling Route 49 and the bright lights of fast food eateries off exit 26A and you enter a secluded, woodsy hideaway. That sudden transformation is one of the many charms of the Gray Goose Inn, a former country manor on the shore of Lake Palomara that’s been entertaining guests for more than 29 years. Whether you stay at Hampton Inn & Suites Valparaiso for business or pleasure, you can count on our team to meet your needs. Fresh brewed coffee just as you like it in your room, and Hampton’s free hot breakfast in our dining area. Grab a free Hampton On the Run® Breakfast Bag on your way out the door, available from Monday to Friday. Free high-speed internet access, refrigerator and microwave. Select rooms with a whirlpool or sofa bed. Use the handy lap desk to relax with a good book or work on your laptop. Exercise in our fitness room or relax in the indoor pool and hot tub. Our event space holds up to 75 people. Escape into the tranquility of another time at a country home-turned-inn. Relax in the various sitting rooms or the luxurious privacy of your room (or Jacuzzi and fireplace, if you nab one of their deliciously decked-out suites). Get your blood pumping with a refreshing walk through the 100 acres of woods on the grounds, or daydream by the lake in the screened-in gazebo. Address: 350 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Address: 1451 South Silhavy Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-926-5781 Toll-free: 800-521-5127 Phone: 219-531-6424 Fax: 219-531-6423 Web : www.valparaiso.hamptoninn.com Web : graygooseinn.com ADVERTISEMENT Hilton Garden Inn ADVERTISEMENT DunesWalk Inn You Can Count On Us! Retreat, relax, renew in a historic setting located in the Indiana Dunes. Each of our well-appointed guest rooms features a refrigerator, microwave and Keurig coffee maker. Come sleep deep in a garden sleep system bed and stay fit in our workout center or indoor pool and sauna. Once here, you can work smart in our business center and stay connected with complimentary wireless. Lastly, why not treat yourself to room service or eat well in the Great American Grill for breakfast or dinner. Set in a 131-year-old mansion only three minutes from the beach, this boutique inn pairs modern amenities with historic touches. It’s a luxurious escape for a romantic getaway—as well as a familyfriendly vacation rental. The Hilton Garden Inn is located three miles south of I-80/94, and is only an hour away from Chicago’s Midway Airport. Guests will enjoy our location near the universities of Valparaiso and Notre Dame, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, casinos, and major corporations. Golfing, fishing and walking trails are also available near by. Address: 501 Gateway North Chesterton, IN 46304 Address: 1491 North Furnleigh Lane, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9500 Phone: 219-728-6393 Web : chesterton.hgi.com Web: duneswalkinn.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 37 Stay & Relax Find something more with unique, local lodging By Ken Kosky Tim Wilk has eaten at every restaurant around so when one of his guests at Gray Goose Inn in Chesterton asks for a dining recommendation, he can guide them somewhere that will suit their tastes perfectly. It’s that type of service and expertise that draws people to unique, local lodging. Indiana Dunes Country is known for it’s excellent inns, cottages, and bed & breakfast facilities. Each one is different, but they are united by personal service and unique settings. Here’s a snapshot of some of the great, local places. Valparaiso INN AT ABERDEEN The 11 rooms of this 1850s home feature Jacuzzis and fireplaces, and guests are treated to a three-course breakfast as well as an evening dessert and beverage bar. “It’s not a vanilla box you can see anywhere in the country,” Dr. John Johnson, the owner, says of the inn. He says guests love the peacefulness and the privacy. “We get quite a few repeat customers. It’s their retreat.” The inn also does wine tasting dinners, mystery dinners and other events. SONGBIRD PRAIRIE The worries of everyday life start to fade the moment you head up the long, winding driveway toward this stately red inn, nestled on six acres of woods and prairie. It is even more relaxing inside, with fireplaces and whirlpool tubs in each guest suite, and available spa services. But perhaps the guests’ favorite room is the dining room, and that’s not just because of the inn’s famous three-course breakfasts. The dining room’s nearly full-length windows offer great views of the birds visiting the feeders hung outside the windows. “Most people appreciate the peaceful and quietness at Songbird,” says owner Barbara Rivera. Duneland Communities AT HOME IN THE WOODS This National Park-themed bed and breakfast combines the luxury of a hotel with the comfortable casualness of staying with family. This home in the woods features gourmet four-course breakfasts (with berries and herbs from the owners’ garden), a hot tub, a pool, and a sauna. Guests enjoy sitting on the swing near the pond or strolling the nature trails of the four-acre woods. “People say they like the personal attention and homey feeling when staying,” says owner Victoria Phillips. 38 DUNESWALK INN Set in a restored mansion just one mile from the beaches of Lake Michigan, this boutique inn pairs modern amenities with historic touches -- all set on spacious grounds. It has become a favorite spot for couples enjoying one of the five rooms or families renting the entire inn. “Our location a mile from the lake...we feel that makes DunesWalk Inn extremely unique,” says owner Ari Killian. “And the inn offers a feel like you’re at home. We didn’t want to give it a hotel feel.” GRAY GOOSE INN The inn, set on 100 wooded acres and overlooking a small lake, was summed up best by a guest who says, “This could be a writer’s paradise.” Owner Tim Wilk says the setting is “very peaceful.” But he says the service is what ensures the inn has a lot of regular customers. “Here, we’ll spend time with them and explain everything to see and do. They enjoy that,” Wilk says. INSPIRATION WOOD Nestled among 60 acres of pines, woodlands and grassy meadows, guests of Inspiration Wood have plenty of room to relax both indoors and outdoors. The accommodations consist of seven beautiful, new cottages. “I think people seek us out because they want an environment that helps them reconnect with each other and to grow,” says owner Ron Van Sessen. “I see the same results whether we have a corporate group, church group, university group, family reunion or any other kind of group. There is a dramatic change in our guests between the time they arrive and the time they leave Inspiration Wood.” RILEY’S RAILHOUSE You need not be a train enthusiast to enjoy staying the night at Riley’s Railhouse bed & breakfast. But if you do appreciate trains as much as the establishment’s owner, Richard Riley, you’ll get a kick out of the decorations, like old train oil cans, a telegraph and an old railroad scale. Riley’s Railhouse opened in 2011 in a former railroad freight station in Chesterton. It features guest rooms in the freight station and in the train cars outside. But it’s more than interesting ambiance. “We say people come as guests and leave as friends,” Riley says. To view the Indiana Dunes Tourism lodging video series, visit youtube. com/user/IndianaDunesCountry. Best Western Portage Hotel & Suites Offering that little something extra. It’s everything you love about the Best Western brand with a little something extra. This great hotel is located right next to the new Portage Bike Trail and within close proximity of businesses, the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the State Park. Since this is a Best Western Plus Hotel, visitors will find a ton of great perks—upgraded bath amenities, a spacious pool, hot tub, continental breakfast, in-room work areas and more—all with an ultra-mod touch that makes it both business friendly and family friendly. And here’s something of note: this location is the #1 ranked Indiana Dunes Country hotel on TripAdvisor. Address: 6200 Melton Road 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 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 outdoorsytypes looking for some entertainment, Bass Pro Shops—the only one in Northern Indiana—is located right next door. Address: 1630 Olmsted Drive Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-0021 Web: countryinns.com/portagein ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 39 A Place to Stay 40 Inspiration Wood Y N Accessible Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) AL AND SALLY’S MOTEL $$ 16 OP 3221 W. Dunes Highway Michigan City (Pines) 219-872-9131 or 219-872-9132 alandsallysmotelinc.com High Speed Internet (Y) Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) # Rooms/Campsites Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Duneland Communities Songbird Prarie AT HOME IN THE WOODS $$$ 3 OP FB Y 898 North 350 E. Chesterton 219-728-1325 athomeinthewoodsbb.com N BEST WESTERN INDIAN OAK $$$ 62 IP FB Y 558 Indian Boundary Road Chesterton 219-926-2200 indianoak.com N BLACKHAWK MOTEL $$ 20 OP 3651 W. Dunes Highway Michigan City (Pines) 219-872-8656 blackhawkmotel.webs.com N COMFORT INN & SUITES 1800 W. US 20 Porter 219-787-1400 comfortinn.com N N P $$$ 70 IP CB Y DUNESWALK INN $$$ 5 1491 N. Furnleigh Lane Chesterton 219-728-6393 duneswalkinn.com Y DUNEWOOD CAMPGROUND $ 78 (National Park Service) US 12 & Broadway Beverly Shores 219-395-1882 nps.gov/indu ECONO LODGE $$ 41 713 Plaza Drive Chesterton 219-929-4416 choicehotels.com CB Y PN GRAY GOOSE INN $$$ 8 350 Indian Boundary Road Chesterton 219-926-5781 800-521-5127 graygooseinn.com FB Y PN Songbird Prairie Inn, Spa and Boutique HILTON GARDEN INN $$$ 120 IP 501 Gateway Boulevard Chesterton 219-983-9500 chesterton.hgi.com Y N INDIANA DUNES STATE PARK CAMPGROUND $ 140 (Department of Natural Resources) IN-49 North of US 12 Chesterton (866) 622-6746 camp.in.gov P INSPIRATION WOOD $$$ 7 Y 1199 North 650 E. Westville 219-983-9922 inspirationwood.com N Key One of Midwest Living’s “25 Favorite B&B’s” Serving gourmet breakfast. Address: 174 N 600 W Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-759-4274 219-743-2096 Web: Songbirdprairie.com ADVERTISEMENT The Inn at Aberdeen 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 then 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 & 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. Address: 3158 South State Road 2, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Bed & Breakfast Hotels/Motels Campgrounds Cottages Phone: 219-465-3753 Web: innataberdeen.com ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 41 Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) N RILEY’S RAILHOUSE 123 N. 4th St. Chesterton 219-395-9999 rileysrailhouse.com FB Y N $$$ 5 SANDCREEK CAMPGROUND $ 150 OP (Independently owned) 1000 North 350 E. Chesterton 219-926-7482 219-331-9805 smsccg.com Y PN SPRING HOUSE INN $$ 50 IP CB Y N 303 N. Mineral Springs Rd. Porter 219-929-4600 springhouseinn.com WATERBIRD LAKESIDE INN & SPA $$$ 22 IP CB Y PN 556 Indian Boundary Rd. Chesterton 888-957-3529 waterbirdinn.com Bed & Breakfast Campgrounds Hotels/Motels Accessible Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) CB Y Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) QUALITY INN $$ 49 418 Council Dr. Chesterton 219-929-5549 qualityinn.com Duneland Communities # Rooms/Campsites High Speed Internet (Y) Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Key Cottages Check out the area’s top restaurants in the Midwest Living Culinary Tour. Quality Inn 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, Seven Peaks Water Park and Indiana Dune State Park. We are minutes away from Interstate 94 Exit 26A and Indian 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, pillow-top mattress, hair dryer, iron and ironing board. WaterBird Lakeside Inn is the perfect setting for relaxation. All of our oversize rooms include the following amenities: • Private Lakeview Balcony • Express Checkout • Free Continental Breakfast • Microwave and Refrigerators in all rooms • In-room Coffee Makers • Clock Radio • Extended Cable & HBO • In-room high speed Wireles Internet Access ·• Whirlpool Rooms include LCD HD TVs & DVD players Address: 556 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton Address: 418 Council Dr., Chesterton Phone: 888-957-3529 Fax: 219-928-1503 Phone: 219-929-5549 Web : waterbirdinn.com Web : qualityinn.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Hampton Inn 42 At Home in the Woods – Bed and Breakfast Country Inn & Suites Valparaiso Where every season is a masterpiece. 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. 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: 898 North 350 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 Address: 2020 La Porte Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383 Web : athomeinthewoodsbb.com Web : countryinns.com Phone: 219-476-0000 Phone: 219-728-1325 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: 32” LCD 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 Lakeview 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 Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-2200 Toll-free: 800-552-4232 Web: indianoak.com ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 43 DONNA JO CAMPGROUND $ 75 (Independently owned) 1255 South 350 E. Kouts 219-766-2186 donnajocampground.com P Portage BEST WESTERN PORTAGE HOTEL & SUITES 6200 Melton Road Portage 219-734-6727 bestwestern.com $$ 100 IP CB Y COMFORT INN $$$ 52 2300 Willowcreek Road Portage 219-763-7177 choicehotels.com N CB Y PN COUNTRY INN & SUITES PORTAGE $$$ 100 IP CB Y 1630 Olmsted Drive Portage 219-764-0021 countryinns.com/portagein N DAYS INN $$ 111 IP CB Y 6161 Melton Road (US 20) Portage 219-762-2136 daysinn.com P P DOLLAR INN $ 50 6140 Melton Road (US 20) Portage 219-763-6601 HAMPTON INN $$$ 60 IP CB Y N 6353 Melton Road (US 20) Portage 219-764-1919 hamptoninn.com HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS $$ 76 IP CB Y PN 2323 Willowcreek Road Portage 219-762-7777 hieportage.com SUPER 8 MOTEL $$ 65 6118 Melton Road Portage 219-762-8857 super8.com WOODLAND VILLAGE RV LOTS (Within mobile home park) 5757 U.S. 20 Portage 219-762-6578 wvmhp.com $ CB Y PN 70 P YOGI BEAR’S JELLYSTONE $ 926 OP CAMP RESORT 5300 Old Porter Road Portage 219-762-7757 campjellystone-portage.com P FB Y N COUNTRY INN & SUITES VALPARAISO $$$ 59 IP CB Y 2020 LaPorte Avenue Valparaiso 219-476-0000 countryinns.com/valpoin N BEST WESTERN UNIVERSITY INN $$ 53 760 W. Morthland Drive Valparaiso 219-850-1100 bestwestern.com COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT $$$ 111 OP FB Y PN 2301 E. Morthland Drive Valparaiso IP 219-465-1700 courtyard.com/vrpcy 44 Hotels/Motels Campgrounds Cottages FAIRFIELD INN & SUITES $$$ 63 IP CB Y 2101 E. Morthland Drive Valparaiso 219-465-6225 fairfieldinn.com/vrpfi N HAMPTON INN & SUITES $$$ 77 IP FB Y 1451 Silhavy Road Valparaiso 219-531-6424 hamptoninn.com N HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS HOTEL & SUITES $$$ 85 IP CB Y PN 1251 Silhavy Road Valparaiso 219-464-9395 888-897-0084 hiexpress.com INN AT ABERDEEN $$$ 11 OP FB Y PN 3158 S. State Road Valparaiso 219-465-3753 innataberdeen.com PIKK’S TAVERN $$$ 2 (B&B rooms above) 62 W. Lincolnway Valparaiso 219-476-7455 pikkstavern.com SONGBIRD PRAIRIE $$$ 5 174 North 600 W. Valparaiso 219-759-4274 877-songbrd songbirdprairie.com Y N FB Y N SUPER 8 MOTEL $$ 58 IP CB Y N 3005 John Howell Drive Valparaiso 219-464-9840 super8.com Key Bed & Breakfast Accessible Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) High Speed Internet (Y) Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) # Rooms/Campsites Valparaiso Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Accessible Pets Allowed (P) Non-Smoking (N) High Speed Internet (Y) Full/Continental Breakfast (FB/CB) Indoor/Outdoor Pool (IP/OP) # Rooms/Campsites Price Range: $-less than $50, $$-$50–$100, $$$–$100+ Kouts Inn at Aberdeen 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. Catering and full-planning services are included in your retreat package—so all you have to do is show up and be inspired. If you prefer to make your own meals, each cottage is complete with a full kitchen. This newly constructed retreat center, 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 East Inspiration Road Westville, IN 46391 Phone: 219-983-9922 Web: inspirationwood.com Email: [email protected] ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 45 Wine & Brew Leave the kids at home for some grown-up fun By Ken Kosky If it’s been awhile since you’ve had a weekend just to yourselves, now is the perfect time to enjoy a relaxing, adults-only getaway. Indiana Dunes Country -- in addition to being known for breathtaking Lake Michigan beaches and towering sand dunes -- is home to a renowned winery and an emerging craft brewery scene. Uncork a bottle of great wine The staff at Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery enjoys uncorking their 21 different wines and telling customers a little bit about each variety while the customers enjoy tasting each one. Invariably, people leave with a bottle of wine that’s a new favorite. Anderson’s has been producing unique, quality wines -some of which have gone on to win awards -- since 1994. Winery Manager Tammy Carmichael says a visit to a local winery gives people a chance to find something unique and local. Visitors to Anderson’s can also purchase wine by the glass or bottle and enjoy it with crackers and Fair Oaks Farm cheese. People can hang out in the scenic sculpture garden and shop the market. The winery offers wagon rides and tours for a nominal fee at 2 p.m. each Saturday from August to October. Anderson’s is located at 430 E. U.S. 6 in Valparaiso. Visit www.andersonswinery.com or call 219-464-4936 for more information. Anderson’s is not the only place in Indiana Dunes Country to enjoy wine tasting. If you’re in Chesterton, check out the Butler Winery tasting room. Butler Winery’s actual vineyard and winery are located in the Bloomington area, which is within the northern boundaries of the Indiana Uplands viticultural area -- a region in south central Indiana produces wines of distinctive character. Their Chesterton tasting room is located at 401 Broadway. Visit www.butlerwinery.com or call 219-929-1400 for more information. Something great is brewing In a world where the big box retailers and chain restaurants are the same from town to town, Tom Uban believes people are yearning for something unique, something better. Uban, brewmaster and owner of Figure Eight Brewing in Valparaiso, has developed 46 a growing legion of fans who regularly stop by to enjoy their favorites among the 11 hand-crafted beers he and Figure Eight’s other brewmaster make and put on tap at any one time. “Here, they can drink something with flavor versus something mass marketed,” Uban says. Figure Eight’s spacious downtown Valparaiso location -- at 150 S. Washington St. -allows Uban to have a kitchen to create healthier-than-pub-food choices. Visit www.figure8brewing.com or call 219-477-2000 for more information. Indiana Dunes Country is also home to Hunter’s Brewing, a Chesterton-based nanobrewery. This brewery, located at 1525 S. Calumet Road, focuses on hand-brewed beers that range from the traditional to the creative. Owner-brewers Justin Reisetter and Amy Gentry use the one-barrel system to bring high-quality, small-batch boutique brews to the Duneland region. Visit www.huntersbrewing.com or call 219-728-6729 for more information. The newest craft brewery on the scene is Ironwood Brewing Co. in Valparaiso. Owner Barb Kehe, after brewing as a hobby for many years, decided to open a brewery and tasting room at 6 Roosevelt Road in Valparaiso. Find Ironwood on Facebook or call them at 219-405-4644 for more information. Opening in 2014 is Four Fathers Brewing, located at 1555 W. Lincolnway in Valparaiso. They produce beers that nod at traditional beginnings but, like the revolutionary ideas that founded this country, follow a slightly different path to new territory. Visit www.fourfathersbrewing.com for more information. The premier event for craft beer enthusiasts is Valpo Brewfest, which each September allows people the opportunity to sample more than 150 different styles of beer from America’s best craft brewers. Valpo Brewfest is always the last Saturday in September, but it generally sells out long before that. People are encouraged to visit www.valpobrewfest.com to secure VIP tickets or regular tickets. Bon Femme Café American Cuisine with a French Accent. “Elegance in a casual setting” is the motto that drives our succulent cuisine at Bon Femme Café. One of Chicago-land’s most gifted industry leaders, Executive Chef Eddie Luick has prepared an exquisite menu blending American and Continental European with a French accent. Treat yourself to a selection of exquisite dishes guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds. Our featured steaks and chops alone will keep you coming back for more. Or enjoy quiche that melts in your mouth, all cooked to perfection and sure to please. Relax and take pleasure in the elegant French décor as we create a chic dish presentation assuring a memorable dining experience. Address: 66 E Lincolnway Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-0612 Web: www.bonfemme.com ADVERTISEMENT Round The Clock Restaurant Restaurante don Quijote Fall in love with the cuisine and hospitality of España. 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. Voted #1 Breakfast, Lunch and Family Restaurant! Find us on the web: www.roundtheclockrestaurants.com Find us on Facebook. Address: 1607 S. Calumet Address: 217 E Lincolnway Chesterton, IN 46304 Valparaiso, In 46383 Phone: 219-983-9900 Phone: 219-462-6339 Address: 119 East Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-7976 Web : www.donquijotevalpo.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 47 Dining Octave Grill The following chain restaurants are also available throughout Indiana Dunes Country: Arby’s (C,P,V) Ben’s Soft Pretzels (V) Burger King (C,H,P,SH,V) Chipotle Mexican Grill (V) Culver’s (P,V) Dagwood’s (V) Dairy Queen Grill & Chill (C,H,P, SH,V) Dickey’s Barbecue Pit (P,V) Domino’s (V) Dunkin’ Donuts (C,P,V) Fazoli’s (V) 48 Firehouse Subs (P) Five Guys Burgers (V) Fox’s Pizza Den (P) Godfather’s Pizza (C) Hardee’s (P) Hungry Howie’s (V) Jimmy John’s (C,P,V) KFC (C,P,V) Little Caesars (C,P,V) Long John SIlver’s (C,V) McDonald’s (BH,C,P,SH,V) Panera Bread (V) Panda Express (P) Papa John’s (C,V) Popeyes (PR) Qdoba Mexican Grill (V) Quiznos (V) Rios Premium Mexican Cuisine (P) Starbuck’s (P,V) Subway (BH,C,H,K,P,PR,SH,V) Taco Bell (C,P,PR,V) Wendy’s (C,P,V) White Castle (C,V) Yats (V) KEY: Burns Harbor=BH Chesterton=C Hebron=H Kouts=K Portage=P Porter=PR South Haven=SH Valparaiso=V BARTLETT’S GOURMET GRILL & TAVERN 131 E. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. Hwy. 12) 219-879-3081 Local gournet burgers, martini bar, “deer gear” eatatbartletts.com ROLLING STONEBAKER LD 2 W. Dunes Hwy 219-246-0068 rollingstonebaker.com Wood-fired pizza served from old Studebaker fire truck C N $ BL N C $ LD APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR LD C $$ BOB EVANS BLD C $$ DANNY O’S BAR & GRILL LD C DUNELAND PIZZA D DUNES GRILL LD C $ EL CANTARITO LD C $ EL SALTO LD C $ 791 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-921-0070 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world 475 W. Gateway Blvd. 219-983-1575 bobevans.com High quality food and excellent hospitality 520 Broadway 219-926-1163 dunelandpizza.com Pizza with thin, thick, deep pan, wheat, corn meal crusts; sandwiches 757 Indian Boundary Rd., Suite 1 219-250-2060 Seafood, steak, ribs, sandwiches, wraps and salads 709 Plaza Dr. 219-728-6962 elcantaritocuisine.com Food with the finest, freshest ingredients 757 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-395-9890 elsaltorestaurant.com Authentic Mexican cuisine 125 Calumet Rd. 219-926-2614 A popular downtown establishment. Food includes frozen pizzas and chips N N N N N $ $ 3 3 CD $ C $ OCTAVE GRILL LD C $ PEGGY SUE’S DINER BL N C $ PIZZA HUT LD CD $ POPOLANO’S RESTAURANT LD CD $$ PORT DRIVE-IN LD 117 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-8524 peggysuediner.com Homemade soups & daily specials 419 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-3500 theportdrivein.net Chili dogs, root beer, car hops, open seasonally N C $ N RED CUP CAFÉ BLS N CD $ ROUND THE CLOCK RESTAURANT BLD C $ N 115 Broadway 219-929-1804 redcupcafeanddeli.com Local, organic, gluten-free offerings 1607 S. Calumet Rd. 219-983-9900 roundtheclockchesterton.com Voted #1 breakfast, lunch and family restaurant SAGE LD C $$ SCHOOLHOUSE SHOP L N C $$ LD N C $$ 425 Sand Creek Dr., Suite B 219-926-6500 sagerestaurant.net Contemporary American/Italian cuisine with fresh, local ingredients N 278 E. 1500 N. 219-926-1551 schoolhouseshop.com Chicken salad, tuna salad, salmon salad, quiche SMOKEY’S SOUTHERN BARBEQUE 375 E. US Hwy. 20 219-878-1418 Pulled pork, ribs & BBQ smokeyssouthernbarbecue.com TAO CHEN’S LD C $$ THIRD COAST SPICE CAFE BL TIGER LILY CAFE L C $ TONYA’S PATISSERIE BL N C $ UNCLE JOE’S BAR AND GRILL LD UPPER DECK LOUNGE D CD $ VAL’S FAMOUS PIZZA & GRINDERS LD N CD $ C $ N VENICE PIZZA D VILLA NOVA LD N CD $ C $ GREAT AMERICAN GRILL BD C $ HAPPY WOK LD C $ HOOLIGAN’S LD HUNTER’S BREWING S LEMON TREE MEDITERRANEAN GRILL LD LOCAL FLAVORS LD 1505 S. Calumet Rd. 219-921-0488 eatatlocalflavors.com Sandwiches, sweet or savory waffles, ice cream and more for vegans and meat lovers. Local, natural ingredients CD $$ 356 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-8733 lemontreegrill.com Beef kabob, chicken shawarma, falafel, beer/wine 225 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5552 popolanosrestaurant.com Steaks, seafood, pastas, pizza, alfresco dining N LD 1535 S. Calumet Rd. 219-728-6729 huntersbrewing.com Nanobrewery brewing beers by hand, focus on quality and flavor pizzahut.com LD 3 GEORGE’S GYROS SPOT 711 Plaza Dr. 219-929-5570 hooliganspubandgrub.com Variety of food, sports bar w/lg screen TV, ent. Wed. only N TASTE OF INDIA $ 552-2 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-983-9755 A dine in or take out Chinese Restaurant N LD 501 Gateway Blvd. 219-983-9500 chesterton.hgi.com Breakfast buffet, dinner, steaks, pastas, seafood. Wi-Fi 21 & Over BLS BLD GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA 325 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5435 georgesgyrosspot.com Gyros, Chicago Hot Dogs, Italian beef, and more. Wi-Fi $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking NORTHSIDE DINER C $$ N SUNRISE FAMILY RESTAURANT N S 317 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-6363 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, banquet facilities, lunch, dinner & bar C-Carry-out, D-Delivery 754 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-5000 Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts AARON’S MORTGAGE INN FLANNERY’S TAVERN LD 137 S. Calumet Rd. 219-395-8494 Find us on Facebook Burgers, sandwiches, entrees, salads, drinks. Lunch on weekends Chesterton 1050 South Calumet Rd. 219-926-7530 Fish, steaks, pizza & sandwiches. Wi-Fi LUCREZIA 100 N. Calumet Rd. 219-926-9040 Find us on Facebook Breakfast or lunch anytime, any day. Open 5am daily 229 Dunes Hwy. (U.S. Hwy. 12) 219-787-8193 A bar style sandwich shop 1400 Broadway 219-926-3113 Italian Beef, cheeseburgers, daily specials Café Ethnic Dining Pizza 428 S. Calumet Rd. 219-926-5829 lucreziacafe.com Fine Northern Italian cuisine & wines. Alfresco dining. Martini bar Burns Harbor BROWN BAG SANDWICH SHOP Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks LD C $$ N 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks Beverly Shores Key CD $ N N N N C $ N $ 3 N N 475 Sandcreek Dr. N. 219-921-1488 Find us on Facebook Daily homemade specials/soups, open 6am-9pm 418 Roberts Rd. 219-921-1900 tasteofindiachesterton.com Indian cuisine served as lunch buffet, dinners 532 Indian Boundary Rd. 219-926-2542 taochenschinese.com Contemporary Chinese cuisine 761 Indian Boundary Rd. Suite 6 219-926-5858 Organic coffee, omelets, sandwiches thirdcoastspice.com 1505-2 S. Calumet Rd. 219-921-0488 Find us on Facebook Sandwiches, flatbreads, barbecue, vegetarian/vegan C $ N N C $ N N 321 Broadway 219-929-1415 Fresh baked goods & quiches, coffeeshop facebook.com/people/Tonyas-Patisserie/ 361 N. Calument Rd. 219-926-1814 Best burgers in town, Friday night fish fry and live music on weekends C $ N C $ 3 139 ½ S. Calumet Rd. 219-929-1040 upperdecklounge.com Enjoy a variety of food, drinks and entertainment 112 S. 11th St. 219-921-0056 valsfamouspizzaandgrinders.com Pizza, calzones, grinders, lunch specials, lunch & dinner CD $ 1453 Broadway 219-728-6438 N Chicago style deep dish, stuffed and traditional pizzas 213 Broadway 219-728-6648 Find us on Facebook! Upscale pizza bistro, menu made from scratch w/ finest ingredients INDIANADUNES.COM 49 BLD S 3 BUFFALO WILD WINGS LD $$ N CAPPO’S LD CICI’S PIZZA LDS C $ N CLANCY’S OF PORTAGE DS COACHES PIZZERIA D CORNER BISTRO L DENNY’S BLD DEPOT HOT DOGS LDS LIGHTHOUSE LD MARTI’S PLACE AT RAMSEY’S LANDING LD PAV’S LD SUZY’S DINER BLD TRES AMIGOS MEXICAN CUISINE BLD WANA PIZZA D C-Carry-out, D-Delivery C $ 425 Pratt St. 219-996-9040 Pizza, burgers, seafood, drink specials 17519 N. 700 W. 219-996-3363 martisplace.com Prime rib & seafood, overlooks the Kankakee River 642 N. Main St. 219-996-3663 eatatpavs.com Pizza, gyros, burgers, beef and more 407 S. Main St. 219-996-3463 Find us on Facebook 50’s diner serves breakfast all day, lunch, dinner, pizza, ice cream 816 Country Square Plaza 219-509-3011 Enjoy a variety of Mexican favorites. 121 N. Main St. 219-996-9262 wanapizza.com Pizza, sandwiches, wings and calzones CD $ N C $ N C $ N CD $ N BAUM’S BRIDGE INN LD C $$ BIRKY’S BAKERY & COFFEE SHOP B C 1092 S. Baum’s Bridge Rd. 219-766-0515 Find us on Facebook Daily specials, full dinner menu, steaks & chops 205 S. Main St. 219-766-3851 birkyfarms.com Breakfast wraps, espresso, flavored gourmet coffees, homemade baked goods. BLD 404 S. Main St. 219-766-0079 Home cooked comfort food: burgers, fries, desserts N N N C $ $ COUNTRY FOLKS PIZZA D N CD $ CRONIES CHARHOUSE & GIN MILL LD 401 S. Main St. 219-766-3877 Pizza, sandwiches and more Find us on Facebook C $ 310 S. Main St. 219-766-3172 Prime rib & lake perch Find us on Facebook GEORGE’S KOFFEE KUP BL N C 3 $ 105 S. Main St. 219-766-2414 facebook.com/koffeekup Country cooking & homemade soups and pies MAIN STREET PIZZA PLUS D N LD 104 Railroad St. 219-766-0263 birkyfarms.com Sandwiches, pizza, salads and ice cream treats Pines JOE’S BAR & GRILL 2958 W. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. Hwy. 12) 219-879-9336 Wings, pizza, cool salads, burgers, Italian beef PINES RESTAURANT AND LOUNGE LDS D Portage LD 3378 Willowcreek Rd. 219-945-9974 3greeksgyros.com Gyros, chicken, ribs. Quality food served fast ANDY’S RED HOTS LD 6220 Central Ave. 219-763-2333 Great hot dogs and more at an excellent price 50 6656 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-5563 capposcasualdining.com Pizza, chicken & ribs 6028 Central Ave. 219-764-8045 cicispizza.me Pizza, pasta, salad & desserts, large groups welcome 2596 Portage Mall 219-762-6224 coachespizzeria.com Pizza, wings, sandwiches and salads 6295 Ameriplex Dr. 219-762-8911 Find us on Facebook Sandwiches, burgers, soup, salads & weekend brunch C 5016 Melton Road (U.S. Hwy. 20 and County Line Road) 219-406-0900 Open April-October. Find us on Facebook! C C $ N 3 3 C $ N $ 3 C $ N C $ N $ N N CD $$ C $ C $ N C $ C $ EL CANTARITO MEXICAN CUISINE LD C $ EL PUEBLO RESTAURANT LD N FINDERS MALL FOOD COURT LD FIRST WOK LD FUJI JAPANESE RESTAURANT LD GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA D GREAT WALL BUFFET LD ISLAMORADA FISH COMPANY LD JADE GARDEN LD N J&J’S PIZZA SHACK LD KELSEY’S STEAK HOUSE D KING BUFFET LD LONGHORN STEAKHOUSE LD 6291 Central Ave. 219-762-1900 elcantaritocuisine.com N Food with finest, freshest ingredients, smoking on outdoor patio $$ 5350 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-764-8226 pueblovalpo.com Mexican restaurant where everybody goes home happy 5935 US Highway 6 219-762-1138 Enjoy the food court along with fun video games, mini golf 2555 Willowcreek Road 219-762-8858 Find us on Facebook Szechuan, Hunan and Cantonese Chinese food. No MSG 6425 Daniel Burnham Dr. 219-787-1800 fishcompany.com Enjoy seafood and other dishes in setting featuring large aquariums C $ N CD $ N C $$ N C $ N $ N C $ N C $ 6222 Central Ave. 219-762-2388 Cantonese cuisine: Lg. variety menu, authentic Chinese atmosphere 6275 Central Ave. 219-763-6767 jjspizzashack.com Pizza, dinner & lunch 5630 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-2242 kelseyssteakhouse.com Prime rib & steaks CD $ C LD N $ $ 3380 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-3833 Authentic Mexican cuisine 5920 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-7776 Chinese cuisine C $$ N EL AMIGO MEXICAN RESTAURANT 5023 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-1545 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, dinner only N 2542 Portage Mall 219-764-4995 Find us on Facebook Authentic Irish pub, pizza, wings, fish & chips, sandwiches $ 3860 W. Dunes Hwy. (U.S. Hwy. 12) 219-874-7330 Italian beef, fries, mozzarella sticks and more served during the summer 3 GREEKS GYROS, CHICKEN & RIBS 6530 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-2121 buffalowildwings.com A sports bar feel and family restaurant serving wings and more 5942 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-4131 Japanese specialties and sushi 201 S. Main St. 219-766-2298 Find us on Facebook Pizza, sandwiches, dinner only, closed Monday PIGGIES AND CREAM AT THE DEPOT 2522 Portage Mall 219-763-7300 Find us on Facebook Sports & music bar & grill - home of all UFC fights 6171 Melton Rd. (U.S. Hwy. 20) 219-764-0311 dennys.com Around the clock breakfast and casual family dining Kouts BRIIELI’S CAFE 6211 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-3243 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking LD 215 N. Main St. 219-996-4020 AYCE crab legs 5-8pm Sat., outdoor dining & drinks on upper deck C 21 & Over BOOMERS PUB & GRUB HERITAGE INN, THE N $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) CD $ N -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks LD BLD 120 N. Main St. 219-996-9221 Country cooking, pies 21 & Over APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR COUNTRY KITCHEN, THE $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) $ B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks Portage Hebron 5600 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-7878 Chinese buffet 1650 Olmstead Dr. 219-762-5911 longhornsteakhouse.com Fresh steaks, fish, chicken ribs and more CD $ N C $$$ N C $ N C $$$ N NICKY’S GYROS LD PIZZA HUT LD PORTAGE HOUSE OF PANCAKES & RESTAURANT BL QUAKER STEAK & LUBE LDS RED CARPET LOUNGE LD ROSEWOOD FAMILY RESTAURANT 6315 U.S. Hwy. 20 219-850-4188 Gryos, tacos, chili dogs, sandwiches and more 5455 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-734-6744 Gryos, burgers, hot dogs 6159 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-9554 pizzahut.com Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts 5900 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-9588 Omelets, pancakes, sandwiches, soup and salads 6245 Ameriplex Dr. 219-764-9464 quakersteakandlube.com Wings 3 LEROY’S HOT STUFF 333 W. U.S. Hwy. 20 219-926-6211 facebook.com/leroyshotstuff Mexican & American cuisine LD VILLAGE TAVERN LD WAGNER’S RIBS LD C $ N WHISTLE STOP BAR AND GRILL BLD South Haven PEPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT LD ROSEWOOD FAMILY RESTAURANT BLD SPORTSMAN’S LOUNGE D SUREFIRE SANDWICH SHOP LD 124 Lincoln St. 219-926-6518 santiagosrestaurante.com Authentic Mexican food CD $ N 361 Wagner Rd. 219-926-7614 wagnersrestaurantandbar.com Full menu, specialty-pork ribs (21 & older) 206 E. Lincoln St. 219-921-0100 A historic building where good friends, good drinks and good food meet. Find us on facebook! CD $$ N BLD $ RUSTY NAIL SPORTS BAR & GRILL BLD $ 3 RYAN’S TAVERN LD $ 3 SANTINI’S PIZZA & WINGS LD 3 809 McCool Rd. 219-762-7666 pepes.com Tasty Mexican food with all its authentic flavors 6481 Melton Rd. (U.S. Hwy.20) 219-762-7485 Tacos & steak sandwiches (21 & older) C C 6340 Melton Rd. (U.S. Hwy. 20) 219-763-7771 Drinks, cheeseburgers, tacos and more 3287 Willowcreek Rd. 219-762-2113 santinispizzaandwings.com A favorite of people who love pizza, wings and more SCHOOP’S HAMBURGERS 367 W. U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-2282 rosewoodfamilyrestaurants.com Greek & American dishes N 2420 Dombey Rd 219-850-4675 facebook.com/RustyNailSports Food, drinks, entertainment, activities and more C BLD BLD 6231 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-0545 steaknshake.com Steak burgers, chili, milkshakes and more STONE QUARRY LOUNGE LD C $ 3 N C $$ 3 C $$ N C $ N $ 3 CD $ C AJ’S PIZZA LD N CD $ APPLEBEE’S NEIGHBORHOOD GRILL & BAR LD C $ N AURELIO’S PIZZA D CD $ C BISTRO 157 LD C $$$ C C 150 E. U.S. Hwy. 6 219-464-8282 ajspizzaco.com Pizza, sandwiches, dinner only. Lunch available on weekends $ 670 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-477-3868 applebees.com The largest casual dining chain in the world $ 2596 Portage Mall 219-762-5812 Enjoy a variety of bar food and drinks SUNSET LOUNGE D TACO LOCO LD TATE’S PLACE BLD TEXAS CORRAL LD TEXAS ROADHOUSE D $ 5844 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-6065 sunsetofportage.com Pizza, burgers, wings, drink specials, entertainment 5455 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-734-6744 Mexican restaurant that will deliver 3 Valparaiso $ 6121 Melton Rd. (U.S. Hwy. 20) 219-762-0509 Find us on Facebook Offering a variety of food, including Mexican and Italian STEAK ‘n SHAKE $ 385 W. US Highway 6 219-841-9698 surefirecatering.com N Sandwiches with slow roasted meats and homemade sauces 3285 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-1410 schoophamburgers.com Hamburgers & full-service breakfast. President Obama ate here SHENANIGANS C 381 W. U.S. Hwy. 6 219-762-4099 myspace.com/sportsmansloungevalpo Known for fresh, brick-baked pizza, entertainment CD $ N BLD N D $ N 128 Lincoln 219-926-5002 Food specialties (21 & older) specialty burgers CD $ N $ C $ BLD CD $ 3 S N SANTIAGO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANTE CD $ N 2606 Portage Mall 219-763-3297 rosewoodfamilyrestaurants.com Greek & American dishes 21 & Over LD $ BLD 1600 W. U.S. Hwy. 20 219-926-8566 tatravelcenters.com N Homestyle food, complimentary seconds, healthy eating options $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) NICKY’S GRILL C C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking LD COUNTRY PRIDE RESTAURANT C $ N 2548 Portage Mall 219-762-7305 Burgers, chicken strips, pizza, beer garden B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks MOODS PUB & EATERY 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) LD 2385 Willowcreek Rd. 219-763-3779 facebook.com/pages/Mark-Os-Bar-Grill Bar & Grill C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks MARK O’S Porter 265 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-462-9700 aureliospizza.com Chicago-style pizza, salads, chicken, sandwiches 3 157 W. Lincolnway 219-462-0992 bistro157.net Fresh dishes—sushi to lamb—artfully presented C $$ N N N 3 CD $ N $ 3051 Willowcreek Rd. 219-764-8283 N tatesplace.us Family restaurant, homemade specialties 5880 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-764-7515 texascorral.net Steaks, burgers, seafood, ribs and pasta 6130 E. US Highway 6 219-762-5900 texasroadhouse.com Steak, chicken, ribs, seafood, salads. Lunch on weekends C $$ N $$ N TOPPERZ LDS VERONA PIZZA LD 6652 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-763-9674 facebook.com/pages/Topperz/ Salads, wraps and panini made fresh for you 5479 U.S. Hwy. 6 219-764-6464 veronapizzaportage.com Specializing in great pizza and the best beef sandwiches CD $ N Key Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining Café Ethnic Dining Pizza CD $ N INDIANADUNES.COM 51 BLD 114 E. Lincolnway 219-548-2811 Find us on Facebook! Bakery items, coffee, Wi-Fi BOB EVANS BLD 2201 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-464-9201 bobevans.com High quality food and excellent hospitality BON FEMME LD 66 W. Lincolnway 219-531-0612 bonfemme.com French cuisine in an elegant setting BROADWAY CAFÉ ICE CREAM PARLOR BLD 1805 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-464-0112 valparaiso.com/dining/pages/braodway/ Amer., Greek, Ital. & Mex. BUFFALO WILD WINGS LD 212 E. Lincolnway 219-548-9464 buffalowildwings.com A sports bar feel and family restaurant serving wings and more BURGERHAUS LD 3304 Calumet Ave. 219-286-3296 burgerhausvalpo.com The most creatively delicious burgers around CAMPBELL ST. CAFÉ 4245 Meridian Woods Dr. 219-531-1800 Enjoy delicious breakfasts and lunches pinesvillage.org/campbell_st.html CASA DEL MAR BL LD 157 S. Franklin St. Opening in 2014 to serve Mexican cuisine downtown CHILI’S GRILL AND BAR LD 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 210 E. Lincolnway 219-477-1000 cornucopiacoffee.net Special drinks, sandwich menu, avocado, BLT, beer & wine DESIGNER DESSERTS N C C $$ N $$ $ N N C C $$ N N N $ LD $ C $$ N N CD $ BL CD $ DS N S CD $ 56 W. Lincolnway #1 219-465-0008 designerdessertsbakery.comN Cupcakes, custom cakes, wedding cakes, dessert catering DISH RESTAURANT LD 3907 N. Calumet Ave. 219-465-9221 dishrestaurant.net Gourmet salads, sandwiches, pastas, steaks & sweets, prv. din. rm. DON QUIJOTE RESTAURANT LD 119 E. Lincolnway 219-462-7976 Authentic Spanish and Mediterranean cuisine donquijoterestaurantandimports.com DRAGON EXPRESS C $$$ N C $$$ N LD N C $ 2266 W. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-531-5821 Chinese take-out DUFFY’S PLACE LDS C $ 1154 Axe Ave. 219-462-1057 duffysplace.com Bar & grill, entertainment, just west of Valparaiso University DYNASTY BUFFET LD 1805 E. Lincolnway 219-548-8817 Chinese cuisine in a buffet style atmosphere EL AMIGO MEXICAN RESTAURANT LD 3032 Calumet Ave. 219-531-5606 Authentic Mexican cuisine EL SALTO LD 3530 N. Calumet Ave. 219-462-0100 elsaltorestaurant.com Authentic Mexican cuisine C $ N C $ N C $ N C FOUR FATHERS BREWING C FRANKLIN HOUSE LD 150 S. Washington St. 219-477-2000 figure8brewing.com N Eleven different craft brews, root beer, family-friendly food menu 1555 W. Lincolnway, Suite 105 219-464-9712 fourfathersbrewing.com Opening Spring 2014 N LD 3 FIGURE EIGHT BREWING $ 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) GAUCHO’S BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE D $$$ N GELSOSOMO’S PIZZERIA LD GOOD TO GO BY LUCREZIA LD GREENWICH TERRACE CAFÉ LD N C $$ GREEK’S PIZZERIA D CD $ HOOKAH LOUNGE OF VALPO, THE D INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION EATERY & GRILLE LD IRONWOOD BREWING CO. S JADE GARDEN LD JD’S CREPE COMPANY BLD JIMMY’S CAFÉ BL J&J’S PIZZA SHACK LD JOHNNY BOYS BLD KELSEY’S STEAK HOUSE D KING GYROS LD C LA CABANA LD C $$ LA PATRONA AUTHENTIC MEXICAN CUISINE BLD C $ LE PEEP BL C $ MAIN + LINCOLN LD 597 W. U.S. Hwy. 30. 219-759-1100 gauchosvalpo.com Upscale All-U-Eat Brazilian steakhouse, twisted martini 2605 La Porte Ave. 219-477-4255 gelpizza.com Pizza, pasta, sandwiches, banquet facilities, lunch, dinner 54 W. Lincolnway 219-286-7668 goodtogobylucrezia.com Sandwiches, cheese boards, wine, craft beer $$ N CD $ N C $ N 607 Lincolnway 219-465-0100 greenwichterracecafe.com/htdocs Open April-Dec. w eclectic, homemade food, outdoor dining $ 3 N C $$ 1084 Linwood Ave. 219-465-1801 industrialrevolutioneatery.comN Pot roast, brick oven pizza, perch, tacos, red, white & blue cheesecake $ 3 6 Roosevelt Rd. 219-405-4644 Find us on Facebook! N A craft brewery for people looking for good beers 3022 N. Calumet Ave. 219-464-9860 Chinese cuisine 3125 Calumet Ave. 219-242-8611 BBQ Caribbean, Mediter. & Veggie Crepes, dessert crepes, facebook.com/pages/JDs-Crepe-Company 55 S. Michigan Ave. 219-462-9167 Breakfast & daily specials 1454 W. Lincolnway 219-476-1616 jjspizzashack.com Lunch & dinner 2007 Calumet Ave. 219-548-8400 Find us on Facebook Sandwiches, hot dogs, gyros, burgers and breakfast 2300 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-465-4022 kelseyssteakhouse.com Prime rib & steaks C $ N N C $ $ N CD $$ N CD $ N C $$$ N $ 1610 E. Lincolnway 219-464-2010 N Huge gyros and sandwiches, and other filling, inexpensive food 807 E. Lincolnway 219-510-5587 Mexican food with great ambiance inside or on outdoor patio 657 Washington St. 219-707-5597 Find us on Facebook Authentic Mexican favorites. Outdoor seating. 3800 N. Calumet Ave. 219-242-8968 lepeep.com Legendary breakfasts & lunches 210 E. Lincolnway 219-477-1000 mainandlincoln.com Traditional and new cuisine from all America’s cultures N N N C $$ N MALDEN OASIS BLD C $ 394 St. Rd. 49 219-462-2337 Serving burgers and other tasty food for lunch and dinner, plus breakfast on weekends $ 3 MARGARITA’S BAR & GRILL LDS $ 3 MARTINI’S LDS 58 S. Campbell St. 219-462-2533 franklinhousevalpo.com Porter County’s oldest pub, 1858. Live music Thur.-Sat. 21 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8160 margaritasbarandgrill.com Warm hospitality, mouthwatering cuisine and tasty margaritas 3 CD $$ N C $$ 3 1004 Calumet Ave. 219-464-0801 martinisinvalpo.com Steak & Seafood, live entertainment T.T. & S. 52 C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking LD 454 S. Greenwich St. 219-477-2490 Find us on Facebook! American, Mexican, Italian cuisine 65 Valparaiso St. 219-476-8844 Find us on Facbook! Smoke hookah pipes & enjoy drinks, hummus, hot dogs, nachos GABRIELLA’S 59 Indiana Ave. 219-464-7102 greekspizzeriavalparaiso.com N Pizza, salads, sandwiches, appetizers CD $ C B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) $ LD N CD $ 1050 Horseprarie Ave. 219-464-0075 coladaspizza.com (Inside Zao Island) CORNUCOPIA COFFEE COMPANY C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks BLACKBIRD CAFÉ LDS 24 N. Washington Street 219-707-5271 meditrina-market-cafe.com Mediterranean/ethnic cuisine MIKE’S PREMIER GRILL/PIZZA KING BLD 2103 Calumet Ave. 219-476-1800 mikespremiergrill.com Greek specials, Friday fish specials, Hannon’s root beer NEW DRAGON LD 1615 Calumet Ave. 219-476-9222 Chinese take-out NOODLES & COMPANY LD SILVER SPOON, THE SOUTH BEND CHOCOLATE COMPANY C $ N PARKSIDE URBAN BISTRO LD 1305 N. Calumet Ave. parksideurbanbistro.com Contemporary comfort cuisine PEPE’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT LD 1058 S. St. Rd. 2 219-465-0205 pepes.com Tasty Mexican food with all its authentic flavors STRONGBOW INN LD SUZIE’S CAFÉ & CATERING BL T.G.I. FRIDAY’S LD C $ N TOMATO BAR PIZZA BAKERY LD C $$ N TOMMY B’S STEAKHOUSE LD TONY’S PLACE D $ $ C $$ 3 3 LD PHIL B’S CAFÉ BL PIKK’S TAVERN LD N $$ N CD $ N C $ N $$ 62 W. Lincolnway 219-476-7455 pikkstavern.com Steaks, chops, dinner only, lunch Fri..-Sun. PIZZA HUT LD 2510 LaPorte Ave. 219-465-6500 pizzahut.com Pizza, pasta, wings & desserts RED ROBIN LD LD 4 W. U.S. Hwy. 6 219-462-9381 D.J. and bands (21 & older) ROOTS ORGANIC JUICE CAFÉ 108 Lincolnway rootsorganicjuicecafe.com 219-707-5655 Organic juices, smoothies, soups, salads and bakery items ROUND THE CLOCK RESTAURANT BLD C $ $ 3 N C $ N SEMENTO’S NAPOLI CAFÉ LD SHOE’S PIZZERIA LD C $ N C $$ 1200 West St. 219-548-9046 sementos.com Ribs, prime rib, dinners, big sandwiches Key Bar with Food Casual Dining Fine Dining Café Ethnic Dining Pizza 3 C $$ N N 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) C $$ C $ N N CD $ $ N C $$ N N C $ C $$ N C $ 218 E. Lincolnway 219-464-1018 tonysplacepizza.com N Italian cuisine and pizza. Family owned since 1955. Unique decor UPTOWN CAFÉ 1400 Lincolnway 219-246-2526 uptowncafevalpo.com Specialty coffee, tea, soda bar BL CD $$ DS N VALLEY KITCHEN & BAR D VALPO VELVET ICE CREAM LDS VALPO VIENNAS LD VAPS RESTAURANT LD VERONA PIZZA LD VIKING CHILI BOWL BL WINGS ETC. RESTAURANT & PUB LD BLD LD 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 BLD 3300 N. Calumet Ave. 219-476-7463 shoespizzeria.com Pizza, toasted subs, salads, appetizers & wings 13 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8093 Find us on Facebook! Steaks, sushi, pasta. Modern fine dining 3 Napoleon St. 219-299-2592 Find us on Facebook! Hot dogs, Polish, brats, Italian beef, sandwiches, homemade potato chips CD $ N SCHOOP’S HAMBURGERS 2816 Calumet Ave. 219-464-2996 schoophamburgers.com Hamburgers & full-service breakfast. Non-smoking 2310 LaPorte Ave. 219-462-7499 tomatobarpizza.com Stone-baked pizza, calzones, salads, hoagies, craft beer BLD N C $ S 217 E. Lincolnway 219-462-6339 roundtheclockrestaurants.com American, Greek, Italian, cuisine & homemade pastries 81 Silhavy Rd. 219-462-0302 tgifridays.com Enjoy ribs, shrimp, steaks, burgers, pasta & more 55-57 W. Monroe St. 219-464-4141 valpovelvet.com locally-made gourmet ice cream (60+ flavors), sandwiches & soups 3004 John Howell Dr. 219-531-7337 redrobin.com N Serving gourmet burgers since 1969 ROADHOUSE BAR & GRILL 1251 Strongbow Center (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-465-4014 steaknshake.com Steak burgers, chili, milkshakes and more 1050 Southpoint Dr. 219-462-5500 Breakfast and lunch items, gift shop Find us on Facebook $$ N PETEY’S GYROS 175 Lincolnway 219-462-0553 Great food, craft beers, wine, outdoor dining 2405 E. Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-462-5121 strongbowinn.com Turkey, fresh bakery, rustic decor & full continental menu 908 Roosevelt Rd. #E 219-548-3100 Coffee and sandwiches Find us on Facebook C-Carry-out, D-Delivery LD 255 E. Morthland Drive (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-548-2233 peteysgyros.com Gyros, sandwiches, chili and more BL C $ DS N BLD C PESTO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 3123 Calumet Ave. 219-462-0993 pestos.net Italian entrées & desserts, full bar, meeting room 57 Franklin St. 219-477-4418 sbchocolate.com Great coffee, food and, of course, chocolate STEAK ‘n SHAKE LD N LD C $$ D 69 S. Franklin St. 219-510-5428 parearestaurant.com Steak and seafood D 5 E. Lincolnway 219-462-5600 oldstyleinn.com Steak, seafood, pasta (kids can dine on patio, 18 with adult inside) PAREA BLD 15 E. Lincolnway 219-242-8035 silverspoonvalpo.com N Intimate restaurant & bar, outdoor dining, weekend entertainment. STACKS BAR AND GRILL C $ N 712 Calumet Ave. 219-465-0885 Neighborhood Bar & Grill Find us on Facebook OLD STYLE INN -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking C $$ N 71 Silhavy Rd. 219-548-0921 noodles.com N Delicious noodle dishes, soups, salads and sandwiches NORTHSIDE BAR & GRILL B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks 21 & Over $ ($1-10) $$ ($10-20) $$$ ($20+) C-Carry-out, D-Delivery -Accessibility, N-Non-Smoking B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dineer, S-Snacks MEDITRINA MARKET CAFE 22 N. Washington St. Serbian fast food, burgers and hot dogs 1689 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-465-3737 veronapizza7.com Great pizza and the best beef sandwiches 105 Morthland Dr. (U.S. Hwy. 30) 219-462-0800 Breakfast & lunch vikingchilibowl.com C $$ N C $ N C $ N C $ N CD $ N C $ N C $ 501 N. Silhavy Rd. 219-464-7250 wingsetc.com N Sports, beer and jumbo wings, burgers, wraps, seafood & salads Various locations HUNGRY, INC Food truck. 773-398-0613 hungrytruckinc.com See website for info or to GPS track where this food truck is. Sandwiches, soups, salads, potatoes. Wheeler SECOND STREET BAR & GRILL 201 Railroad Ave. 219-759-0011 Hometown bar & grill favorites N CD $ C $ INDIANADUNES.COM 3 53 Locally Made Sawgrass Marketplace Chestnut Creek Pottery Sawgrass Marketplace Watch Chris Harnung show you how pottery is made, then shop for these functional creations. Features local vendors who sell naturally raised meat and vegetables, hand-made goods and more. Hours: Mon. 2:30-5pm Tue-Fri 3-5pm Sat 10am-3pm Address: 2556 Portage Mall, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-331-5411 Air One Aerial Photography Shoots and sells aerial and panoramic photographs. Offers photography services, corporate photo gifts. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Address: 64 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1182 Web: aironephoto.com Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery They make more than 20 wines and also sell baked goods and gifts. Hours: Apr 15-Dec 31: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Sun 10am-5pm Jan 1-Apr 14: Tue-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm Address: 430 East US Highway 6, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4936 Web: andersonswinery.com Biggs Violin Shop Richard Biggs, one of only 200 master luthiers in the world, makes and restores fine instruments and their bows. Hours: Tue-Sat 10:30am-5pm Address: 106 Lincoln Street, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1033 Web: biggsviolin.com Broken Wagon Bison Farm The shop features bison hides, leather items and bison meat. Shop Hours: Mon-Sat 8am-5pm Sun 2-5pm Address: 563 West 450 North, Hobart, IN 46342 Phone: 219-759-3523 Web: brokenwagonbison.com Chesterton’s European Market Locally made treats, honey, jewelry, art, woodworking and more. Hours: Saturdays May-Oct 8am-2pm Address: Broadway and Third Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5513 Web: chestertonseuropeanmarket.com 54 Cloudmaker Glass Studio This studio makes original stained glass doors, windows and other glass masterpieces. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat 10am-4pm Address: 4987 West US Highway 20, Michigan City, IN 46360 Phone: 219-879-1724 Web: cloudmakerstudio.com Duneland Pizza and Dunes Photography This pizza restaurant has a local photographer’s Indiana Dunes photographs for sale as greeting cards and matted enlargements. Hours: Tue-Sun 4-8:30pm Address: 520 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1163 Web: dunelandpizza.com Hoosier Bat Company Makes baseball bats for major league players. Also offers tours and has gift shop where public can buy bats. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Address: 4511 East Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-531-1006 Web: hoosierbat.com Lampshades by Delores They make custom lampshades for your decor or hard-to-match bases. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pm Address: 324 North 325 East, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-477-4991 Saylor Basket Place This iconic dunes area shop has made its own concrete statues since 1947 and offers 1,000 different designs. Also find wind chimes, clay pottery, wicker baskets and clothing for concrete geese. Hours: Mon-Sat 9:30am-5pm (also closed Tuesdays Jan 1-Mar 31) Address: 1300 West US Highway 20, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1599 Hours: Fri-Sat 9am-5pm Address: 1505 South Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-5409 She’s Crafty Unique Boutique Talented local residents fill this shop with handmade jewelry, hair bows, purses, blankets, furniture, home decor, candles, art, children’s clothing, bird houses, dishes and more. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-3pm Address: 18 East Jefferson Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-617-0773 Web: facebook.com/shescraftyvalpo Simply Amazing Market This shop makes and sells gourmet popcorn and fudge, employing and benefitting adults with disabilities. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Address: 2801 Evans Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-9621 Web: simplyamazingtreats.com Sleepy Hollow Leather This small shop stocks high-quality leather products and will custom make leather items and do repairs. Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat 9am-3pm Address: 108 Lincoln Street, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1071 Stephanie Swanson Jewelry Design Hand-crafted jewelry, including originals from beach glass. Hours: Tue-Fri 9:30am-5pm Sat 9:30am-2pm Address: 206 South Calumet Road, Suite C, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone : 219-926-2444 Web: stephanieswanson.biz Shop Till You Drop Find quaint downtowns, antique shops and products made right here By Ken Kosky Take one step onto the Saylor Basket Place property and you’ll instantly be surrounded by hundreds of mermaids, lions, angels, frogs, aliens and Bigfoot creatures -- all made of concrete. “We make our own statuary...possibly 1,000 different things,” says owner Judy Wilson. Inside the building, you’ll find even more whimsical gifts, like wind chimes, clay pottery, wicker baskets and clothing for concrete geese. Saylor Basket Place, located on U.S. Highway 20 in Porter, is just one of the many great, unique places to shop in Indiana Dunes Country. From the great downtown shopping in Valparaiso and Chesterton, to mammoth Bass Pro Shops in Portage, Indiana Dunes Country is the place to go for a wonderful shopping experience. Portage With its 2 1/2-story indoor waterfall, massive aquariums and intricately arranged scenes featuring animals like a bear and deer, it doesn’t take visitors long to realize Bass Pro Shops is more than a store -- it’s an experience. Store general manager Jim Osborne says there are 56,000 different products for outdoors enthusiasts. “We have everything from fishing tackle to hunting items and firearms, clothing, footwear, a nice camping department, nice gifts, home decor and food,” Osborne says. “We also have a full boat dealership and a restaurant (Islamorada Fish Company) at the store.” People from across the world have visited the 135,000-square-foot store. Chesterton Chesterton is known for its one-of-a-kind downtown stores -- like Ella’s Bella, Indian Summer Boutique, Flower Cart, Holly Jackson Art Studio and Gallery, and Chelle’s -- and its numerous antique shops. “I think it’s the small town shopping that people enjoy,” says Chelle’s owner Machelle Blount, adding that people are looking for something different, something of better quality. Chelle’s, for example, focuses on eco-friendly products, including clothing made of cotton, hemp and silk. The store also sells fair trade headbands, art and decorations made of recycled olive oil barrels and car windshields, purses made of pop tops, and wash cloths made of the remnants of the rugmaking process. Valparaiso Downtown Valparaiso is home to great stores like Lifestyles, Seasons on the Square, Renaissance Gallery, Bangles, Martin Binder Jeweler, David’s Mens Clothier, and Piper Children’s Boutique. Lifestyles owner Renee Blosky says people enjoy shopping in downtown Valparaiso because of the one-on-one service they receive -and because there are great restaurants, ice cream parlors and a cupcake shop to fuel people for their shopping adventure. The 10,000-square-foot Lifestyles features home decor, jewelry, art, cards, garden items, toys, kitchen gadgets, novelties and more. Seasons on the Square owner Donna Phelps says people come downtown because it’s a vibrant spot with lots of events, restaurants and shops. She believes women return to her store time and time again because of the welcoming, personal service and the “casual to cocktail” apparel and accessories -- including frequent new arrivals. For more information about shopping in Indiana Dunes Country, visit www.indianadunes. com/things-to-do/shopping. Chesterton’s European Market INDIANADUNES.COM 55 Shopping David’s Mens Clothier Markets Anderson’s Vineyard & Winery Unwind and enjoy a free tasting of more than 20 varieties of estate wines. Or pick up delicious baked goods, gift items and beer and wine making supplies at the adjoining country market. If you have a group of 25 or more, call ahead and schedule a tour for $15 per person. Wagon rides and tours are available for a nominal fee on weekends during the summer at noon, 2pm and 4pm. Hours: Apr 15-Dec 31: Mon-Sat 10am-6pm Sun 10am-5pm, Jan 1-Apr 14: Wed-Sun 11am-5pm Address: 430 East US Highway 6, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-4936 Web: andersonswinery.com Birky Family Farms Country Market The motto of this family-owned farm is, “It’s what we feed our own family!” After you’ve tasted their delicious, locally raised pork and other meat products, you’ll become a convert. Birky Family Farms also sells homemade pies, local produce and ready-to-eat-meals. Hours: Tue-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-3pm (hours shortened in winter) Address: 506 South State Road 49, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-4150 Web: birkyfarms.com Farmers’ Markets Summertime is the season of gardens bursting with the fruits and veggies of the land. Which means that farmers’ markets are practically just around every corner—where you’ll find locally made treats, local honey, artisan jewelry, fine art and handmade items. 56 CHESTERTON’S EUROPEAN MARKET Saturdays, May-Oct Hours: 8am-2pm Address: Broadway and Third Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5513 Web: chestertonseuropeanmarket.com PORTAGE COMMUNITY MARKET Sundays, Jun-Sep Hours: 11am-3pm Address: Founders Square Park, Central Avenue and PFC Adam Harting Way/PFC Steven Sirko Way, Portage, IN 46868 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us/parks VALPARAISO’S CENTRAL PARK PLAZA MARKET Tuesdays and Saturdays, Jun-Oct Hours: Tue & Sat 8am-3pm Address: Lincolnway and Lafayette Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone 219-464-8332 Web: valparaisoevents.com Johnson’s Farm Produce Johnson’s grows a lot of their own produce, so stop in for berries, sweet corn and more. Hours: Hours vary depending on the month. Visit the website and click on “Contact Us” for hours and contact information Address: 718 W US Highway 30, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-759-6359 Web: johnsonsfarmproduce.com Saylor Basket Place Peterich’s U-Pick Raspberry Farm Spend a morning or afternoon picking fresh, delicious berries. Also find honey and bee’s wax. Open June only Hours: Depends on availability, please call Address: 3 East 900 North (Meridian and 900 North), Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3230 Sanders Farm Experience good, old-fashioned, farm-fresh deliciousness. Sanders Farm sells fresh raw milk, eggs, honey, cheese, jams and frozen meat. In the fall, get in the spirit of the season and decorate your home with farm-grown pumpkins, gourds and corn stalks. Hours: Daily, 8-10am (except Sun mornings) and 3-5:30pm; closed holidays Address: 3 East 900 North (Meridian and 900 North), Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3230 Schoolhouse Shop Besides being a destination shopping experience housed in the heart of the dunes, this magnificent store—housed in a historic schoolhouse—also hosts a farmers’ market during the summertime. Come for the fresh produce, stay for a delicious lunch and discover unique treasures. Store Hours: Mon-Sat 10am-5pm (closed Tue) Sun 11am-5pm Farmers’ Market Hours: May–Sep: Fri.–Sat 10am–4pm Address: 278 East 1500 North, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1551 Web: schoolhouseshop.com Antiques Dune Antiques A unique shop in the heart of the Indiana Dunes that specializes in vintage cottage and cabin furnishing, including rustic old hickory furniture. They also have artwork, lighting and interior design. Hours: May-mid Nov Fri-Sun 10am-5pm Address: 4944 West U.S. Highway 12 (Dunes Highway), Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-879-2368 Web: duneantiques.blogspot.com Estate Collection This unique shop specializes in vintage and estate jewelry, art, furniture and collectibles. Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-4pm Address: 2109 LaPorte Avenue, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-476-0077 Web: greatestatecollections.com Fourth Street Emporium This cozy emporium specializes in antiques, uniques and consignment. Uncover treasures like vintage clothing, dolls, toys, baseball cards, furniture, jewelry, lamps and china. Hours: Mon.–Sat 10am–5pm Sun 12–5pm Address: 402 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-1238 Junk and Disorderly Antiques and Resale You never know what you’ll find at this shop, since they get new items in quite often. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-3pm Address: 203 Broadway, Suite A, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-805-7328 Web: facebook.com/JunkAndDisorderlyAntiquesandResale Kathy’s Antiques Russ & Barb’s Antiques An upscale dealer of fine antiques and jewelry. They’ve got a licensed appraiser on staff if you have questions about particular items. Stop in and find unique jewelry, art, pottery, fine china and decorative glass of all styles. Hours: Tue–Sat 10am–4pm Address: 1599 South Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1400 Winter Hours: Mon.–Sun 10am–4:30pm Summer Hours: Mon.–Sun 10am–5pm Address: 222 Lincoln Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4937 Katie’s Antiques Shop on the Corner Shoppers will find an ever-changing selection of antiques, collectibles, resale and home decor. This antiquing destination, housed in a historic mansion, features room upon room of items like fine furniture, porcelain and ivory. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-5pm Sat & Sun 11am-5pm Address: 427-B South Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-250-2087 Web: facebook.com/ShopOnTheCorner Hours: Thu, Fri. & Sat 11am-4pm Sun 12-4pm Mon., Tue & Wed by chance or by appointment (off-hours number 219-464-2566) Address: 219 South Calumet Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-5559 The eState Marc t. Nielsen Interiors and Antique Shop In the huge Tudor-style barn, you’ll find antiques from many cultures, including Asian and European items, art, one-of-a-kind light fixtures and lamps. The shop also specializes in interior decorating and has an array of options for drapery, upholstery, custom furnishings, fabric, wall coverings and furniture. Hours: Mon.–Thu 9am–4:30pm, Fri.–Sun by appointment Address: 734 Old Suman Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-9812 Web: marctnielseninteriors.com O’Gara and Wilson Ltd. Antiquarian Booksellers This downtown shop buys and sells used books, and also deals in book-related collectibles and antiques, autographs, artwork and photographs. If you’re looking for high-end collectibles, WW II and Civil War memorabilia, pottery, crystal or jewelry—this is your destination. The friendly and professional staff also repairs jewelry and buys gold. Hours: Mon.–Fri. 10am–5:30pm Sat 10am–4pm Summer and holiday hours may vary. Address: 3101 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-764-4316 Find them on Facebook Yesterday’s Treasures With more than 100 dealers and two floors of treasures, this is definitely the area’s largest and most eclectic antique mall. You’ll find items in all price ranges—and if you’re looking to do consignment or sell an estate, they can help you with that, too. Hours: Mon., Wed–Sat 10am–5pm, Sun Noon–5pm Address: 700 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-2268 Find them on Facebook Hours: See website for hours Address: 223 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-728-1326 Web: ogaraandwilson.com Old Farm House Antiques This charming store on Hebron’s Main Street contains distinctive furniture, clocks, glassware, flow blue, pottery, primitives, china, vintage clothing, collectibles and gifts. Hours: Mon. & Thu–Sat 10am–2:30pm Sun Noon–2:30pm Tue & Wed by chance Address: 409 South Main Street, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-5329 Schoolhouse Shop Hidden Garden INDIANADUNES.COM 57 Art Galleries Depot of Beverly Shores Museum & Art Gallery Air One Photography Looking for just the right glistening skyline, breathtaking vista, architectural vignette or sweeping landscape to hang on your wall? Stop at Air One—one of the country’s best aerial and panoramic photographers. They have a magnificent range of professional photography services, canvas prints and corporate photo gifts. Hours: Mon.–Fri. 9am–5pm Address: 64 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-1182 Web: aironephoto.com Brauer Museum of Art Wander through seven galleries filled with selections from the museum’s permanent collection of more than 3,000 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: Tue, Thu-Fri 10am–5pm Wed 10am–8:30pm Sat–Sun 12–5pm Address: Valparaiso University Center for the Arts, 1709 Chapel Drive, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-5365 Web: valpo.edu/artmuseum Chesterton Art Center This collaborative, made up of more than 500 Indiana Dunes Country arts fans, is dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of Northwest Indiana by exhibiting the works of emerging and established regional artists. It also offers art classes for everyone from preschoolers to senior citizens. This tiny, pink stucco museum pays homage to the town’s history and groundbreaking architecture. It’s also the spot where you can catch the only inter-urban train line in Indiana Dunes Country. While you’re waiting for your train, check out the intimate gallery—an everrotating display of paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramics, woodcarving and fiber art. Gallery features local artists and gift shop features local products. Groups may call to schedule visits. Hours: May-Oct: Fri-Sun 11am-3pm (wine and cheese reception 5-7pm first Friday of each month during season); 4th of July to Labor Day Mon. 11am-3pm Address: 525 Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301 Phone: 219-878-1517 Framing Concepts Gallery This gallery specializes in custom, archivalquality framing services. Not only will they mat and frame anything you bring to them (and we mean anything—from art to wedding gowns and more), their design professionals will also work with you to create a specific “look” for your home—they’ll even come out to your place for a free consultation. While you’re there, be sure to check out all the magnificent pieces of work they have for sale. Hours: Tue–Fri. 10am–5pm Sat 10am–3pm Address: 219 Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-6000 Web: framingconceptsonline.com Hours: Mon.–Fri. 11am–4pm Sat–Sun 1–4pm Address: 115 South 4th Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-4711 Web: chestertonart.com Hazel Hannell Collection at Pines Village The paintings of Hazel Hannell, longtime Indiana Dunes Country resident, are on permanent display at Pines Village Retirement Communities, as are works by other regional artists. People are invited to tour. Hours: Mon-Fri 8am-4pm Address: 3303 Pines Village Circle, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-1591 Web: pinesvillage.org Holly Jackson Studio Holly Jackson is one of Indiana Dunes Country’s most famous artists, and at her studio in downtown Chesterton, you’ll get to experience her genius firsthand. Browse her lively, innovative and colorful works inspired by the Dunes and the Lake Michigan area: abstracts, impressionistic paintings, dunescapes, florals and more. Hours: Wed–Sat 10am–5pm or by appointment Address: 103 South 2nd Street, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-8290 Web: hollyjacksonart.com Lifestyles Discover treasures everywhere you look in this eclectic, 10,000 square foot shop located in a 150-year-old renovated livery stable. On the ground floor, find glassware, jewelry, kids toys, kitchenware, gourmet foods, garden items, greeting cards, frames, candles and collectibles. Upstairs, you’ll be entranced by the kaleidoscope of wall art, sculptures, lamps and furniture. Hours: Mon.–Sat 9am-7pm Sun 12am–5pm Address: 122 East Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-464-9167 Web: valpolifestyles.com Renaissance Gallery Marvel at the variety of artwork available at this downtown Valparaiso gallery. Find oil paintings and metal wall art, blown glass, beautiful and unique jewelry and more. You can also pick up unique items like solar wind chimes, greeting cards, watches, lamps, handbags, scarves and kaleidoscopes. Hours: Tue-Wed 10am-7pm Thu-Sat 10am-8pm Address: 19 Lincolnway, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-465-3222 Northern Indiana Art & Earth Trail features over 150 studios, galleries, farmer’s markets, quaint lodging and specialty shops throughout Northern Indiana. Visit ArtAndEarthTrail.com for more information or pick up the guide at our Visitor Center. 58 Lifestyles Molly Bea’s INGREDIENTS Dune Clothiers at the SchoolhouseShop Prepare to get recipe ideas as soon as you step foot in the store. At Molly Bea’s INGREDIENTS, you’ll find 600 ingredients in bulk bins, from flours to pastas to seeds to spices, not to mention exotic coffees and teas, soups and the largest international licorice selection in Northwest Indiana. Those with a sweet tooth will be entranced by the enormous assortment of sugary snacks: candy buttons, gummies, chocolate-covered nuts and more. 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. Enter a paradise for bakers, cooks and anyone who loves to eat. Hours: M-F 10-5 – Sun 11-5 (Closed Tuesdays) Hours: Monday – Thursday 10am – 6pm, Friday – Saturday 10am - 5pm, Sun Closed Address: 761 Indian Boundary Road, Chesterton, IN 46304 Address: 278 E. C.R.1500N (at Furnessville) Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-983-9401 Phone: 219-926-5001 Web: www.mollybeas.com Web: www.duneclothiers.com ADVERTISEMENT ADVERTISEMENT Seasons on the Square Contemporary clothing, accessories & gifts for women.Customers tell us they appreciate our personalized service, unique selection and welcoming atmosphere. We invite you to shop at Seasons on the Square, so you can experience the WOW in your wardrobe! Hours: Monday - Friday: 10am - 5:30pm Saturday: 10am - 4pm Address: 1 Lincolnway (Downtown) Valparaiso, Indiana 46383 Phone: 219-465-0165 Yesterday’s Treasures Web: seasonsonthesquare.com Antique Mall & Artisan Gallery ADVERTISEMENT Come get lost in 20,000 square feet of unique and vintage items. The 75+ vendors are constantly updating their wares. Whether you are looking for heirloom antiques, mid-century furniture & accessories, hand crafted artisanship, vintage jewelry, quality used & rare books, vinyl records, glassware, vintage pipes & watches, or just a walk down “memory lane”-- make Yesterday’s Treasures your destination. Just 2 miles from I-94 & IN-49! Chesterton’s European Market 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! Hours: Monday - Saturday 10-5, Sunday 12-5 (Closed Tuesday) Address: 700 Broadway, Chesterton, Indiana 46304 Address: 220 Broadway Chesterton, IN 46304 Web: www.ChestertonAntiqueMall.com Phone: 219-926-5513 Phone: 219-926-2268 Web: chestertonseuropeanmarket.com ADVERTISEMENT Photo: Julie Braveman Photography ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 59 Events Sand Sculpture Contest Scan this code to check out our comprehensive listing of events online. August 2–3, 2014 Chesterton Art Fair Saturdays, May 3–October 25, 2014 Chesterton’s European Market At this open-air market, you’ll find artisan breads and pastries, gourmet foods, fresh produce, jewelry, art, clothing, gifts, on-the-go lunches and more. Enjoy live entertainment 10am-1pm. 8am–2pm Downtown Chesterton 219-926-5513 3rd Street and Broadway, Chesterton, IN 46304 chestertonseuropeanmarket.com Free admission July 12, 2014 Sand Sculpture Contest at Indiana Dunes State Park Come and carve your best sand creation or just watch to see what magnificent creations others come up with. Prizes awarded. 9am-1pm Indiana Dunes State Park 219-926-1390 1600 North 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of US Highway 12) in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Participation/viewing free after paying standard park gate fee July 17–26, 2014 Porter County Fair The ten best days of summer! A wide variety of both grandstand and grounds entertainment, livestock, food and competitions. Mon.–Fri.: 1–10pm Sat–Sun: 10am–10pm Porter County Expo Center and Fairgrounds 219-462-0321 215 East Division Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 portercofair.org $5 adults/children 9 and under free/ 10-punch pass $40 60 A juried art fair with over 100 artists from 15 states. The fair now features a children’s booth, music and a public art project. 10am–5pm Hawthorne Park 219-926-4711 405 Waverly Road, Porter, IN 46304 $5 adults/children 12 and under free August 23, 2014 Kouts Pork Fest This pork-centric event includes 5K run, parade, entertainment, food, arts & crafts booths and more. 8am–evening Downtown Kouts 219-766-0720 State Road 8 and Highway 49, Kouts, IN 46347 koutsporkfest.com Free admission indianadunes.com/events/ October 2-31, 2014 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 888-813-4571 228 South 500 West, Valparaiso, IN 46385 amhurstasylum.com $20 general admission October 10–12, 2014 Elvis FANtasy Fest August 23–24, 2014 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 219-766-2302 1099 Baums Bridge Road, Kouts, IN 46347 kankakeevalleyhistoricalsociety.org Free admission Bop it up at the sock hop, meet special guests who once worked with Elvis, cheer on Elvis tribute artists, eat peanut-butter-and-banana sandwiches and feel the collective love from hundreds of fellow fans. Fri.: 5:30pm–close Sat: 10am–close Sun: 10am–close Woodland Park Community Building 317-844-7354 2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage, IN 46368 elvisfantasyfest.com Ticket prices vary December 6–7, 2014 Annual Kouts Christmas Open House September 6, 2014 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 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 219-766-3791 Locations vary—maps available at intersection of State Road 8 and State Road 49 koutsevents.com Free admission Falls Drives State Park We’ve picked the “best of the best” fall drives for the Indiana Dunes and Indiana Dunes Country, along with some highlights to enjoy along the way. INDIANA DUNES COUNTRY LOOP INDIANA DUNES DRIVING LOOP This drive takes you along the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan shoreline. Bring sturdy hiking shoes and enjoy autumn the way the earliest settlers experienced it—in all her glowing, natural beauty. Start at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at 1215 North State Road 49, Porter, IN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. Turn right onto State Road 49 North .4 mi Take ramp to US Highway 20 West for .2 mile, then merge onto US Highway 20 West 1.7 mi Turn right onto Mineral Springs Road .8 mi Turn right onto US Highway 12 East 4.4 mi Turn left onto 300 East/East State Park Road 1.2 mi Turn right on Lakefront Drive .8 mi (Parking available on East State Park Road and Lakefront Drive if you want to interrupt your driving for an autumn stroll on the beach. Century of Progress Homes are along Lakefront Drive) 7. Turn right on Broadway .5 mi 8. Turn left on Beverly Drive 3.5 mi 9. Turn right, head back west on US Highway 12. If you’re looking for great food and drinks, stop at Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill & Tavern, 131 East US Highway 12, Beverly Shores 3.5 mi 10. Continue west on US Highway 12 1.6 mi 11. Turn left at 300 East/East State Park Road .7 mi 12. Turn right on Furnessville Road (unmarked road immediately before US Highway 20) .9 mi 13. Turn left on Veden Road/200 East 1.0 mi 14. Turn right on 1400 North .3 mi 15. Turn left onto US Highway 20 .1 mi 16. Turn right on Hadenfelt Road .9 mi 17. Turn left on Furnessville Road .1 mi 18. Turn left on US Highway 12 West 1.3 mi 19. Turn left and get onto the ramp to State Road 49 Turn left onto State Road 49 North to go to Indiana Dunes State Park for a fall hike or drive the scenic road from the entrance to Wilson Shelter .7 mi 20. Or, turn right on State Road 49 South and enjoy a walk at Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve or see its beauty from your car 4.7 mi Fall colors aren’t limited to the state and national parks—all throughout Indiana Dunes Country, the autumn leaves are a beautiful backdrop to our activities. Take this driving loop to experience the fun that fall brings to our towns south of the Dunes. Start at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center at 1215 North State Road 49, Porter, IN 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. Turn left onto State Road 49 South 4.4 mi Turn left onto North Calumet Avenue 1.0 mi Turn left onto Tratebas Road, bearing right at Mount Jackson and left at Mander to stay on Tratebas2.2 mi Turn right onto County Road 350 East/Old Suman Road 3.0 mi Turn left on 600 North .9 mi Turn left on 400 East 2.0 mi Turn right on US Highway 6 to stop at Anderson’s Vineyard .2 mi & Winery, 430 East US Highway 6, Valparaiso 8. Exit Anderson’s by turning left onto US Highway 6 3.6 mi 9. Turn onto southbound State Road 49 8.4 mi 10. Turn right onto Division Road .9 mi 11. Turn left at Sager Road (when the road forks, stay to the left). Continue south; road becomes 150 East (road jogs to left, then continues south at 600 South) 7.2 mi 12. Turn right on Baums Bridge Road 2.4 mi 13. Turn left on 900 South 4.9 mi 14. Turn right on 500 East, proceed to Dunn’s Bridge County Park, which is on your right. There is no sign, and if you cross the Kankakee River, you’ve gone too far. If you have a boat, you can launch it here and enjoy the fall colors from the water 5.5 mi 15. Turn left on County Road 500 East 6.5 mi 16. Turn left on State Road 8 (at intersection with State Road 49, you can dine and shop in Kouts) 2.9 mi 17. Turn right on State Road 49, return to Visitor Center 22.3 mi 18. Or, to dine and shop at a variety of unique, local establishments, turn right on State Road 49 9.2 mi 19. Exit onto west US Highway 30 (ramp is .2 mile) 2.0 mi 20. Turn right on Washington Street, take to Lincolnway in Valparaiso .6 mi 21. To return to Visitor Center, turn right on Lincolnway and take it through the traffic circle as it becomes LaPorte Avenue. Continue to State Road 49 North exit 2.1 mi 22. Take State Road 49 to Visitor Center 11.9 mi INDIANADUNES.COM 61 Winter Activities Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore W hen the cold winds blow and the snow falls, a whole new world of adventure opens up in Indiana Dunes Country. Coffee Creek Park Countryside Park Hawthorne Park In the wintertime, this park becomes a prime spot for sledding. It’s located right next to the historic Chesterton business district, so after a day of hurtling down the hill, you can warm up at one of the nearby restaurants or coffeehouses—they’re just a short walk away. Tromp along 33 acres of history at this park, home to the Alton Goin Museum and the Portage Historical Society. The hills offer great sledding and tubing, and its fishing pond is always dotted with ice fishers, even in the coldest months. The area near the north side of the community center is transformed into an outdoor ice rink when the weather cooperates. The rink is lighted, and the community center will open during skating times for a warming area and restrooms. Check website for times. Park is also site of cross-country skiing and a small sledding hill. Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.6086 Long: -87.0489 Address: 246 E. Morgan Avenue, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-3000 Web: chestertonin.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.5506 Long: -87.2115 Address: 5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46868 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Ice Fishing Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve Forest Park With five miles of trails winding through prairies, creeks, wetlands and woodlands, this preserve has plenty of adventures in store for a cross-country skier. If you start to feel a bit chilly, take a break and warm up at the fireplace in the public shelter. Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.5850 Long: -87.0421 Address: State Road 49 and Voyage Boulevard, Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-1842 Find us on Facebook Cost: Free Activities: Skiing B 62 B This popular sledding hill is part of the Forest Park Golf Course. In the winter, the hills along Harrison Boulevard are open for tubing and sledding. It’s one of the most popular hills in Valparaiso—be prepared for lively crowds. Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.4808 Long: -87.0718 Address: 851 Harrison Boulevard, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing B Hours: Vary depending on activity; see website GPS: Lat: 41.62103 Long: -87.06625 Address: 500 Ackerman Drive, Porter, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-1687 Web: townofporter.com Cost: Free Activities: Skating, Skiing, Sledding 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 GPS: Lat: 41.333 Long: -87.1997 Address: 199 Professional Court, Hebron, IN 46341 Phone: 219-996-4641 Web: visithebron.org Cost: Free Activities: Ice skating 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’t-miss spot—although the Tolleston Dunes trail is a close second. Hours: 7am-dusk GPS: Glenwood Dunes Trail (Lat: 41.3891 Long: -87.0089), Tolleston Dunes (Lat: 41.6150 Long: -87.1927) Address: Glenwood Dunes Trail (US Highway 20, just west of 275 East, Chesterton, IN 46304), Tolleston Dunes (US Highway 12, two miles west of State Road 249, Portage, IN 46368) Phone: 219-395-1882 Web: www.nps.gov/indu Cost: Free Activities: Skiing, Snowshoeing B Indiana Dunes State Park Hiking and biking trails transform into cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paths once the snow falls. Spend an afternoon swishing through the landscape, catching glimpses of wildlife in this serene setting. If sledding is your thing, be sure to hit the Devil’s Slide—once winter comes, this sand dune transforms into a wicked fun tubing and sledding hill. Hours: 7am-11pm GPS: Lat: 41.6566 Long: -87.0626 Address: 1600 North 25 East, Chesterton, IN 46304 (State Road 49, north of U.S. Highway 12) Phone: 219-926-1952 Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm Cost: Free on weekdays in winter During the year and weekends: Indiana resident: $5/car Out of state: $10/car Camping: Seven days a week: $17.34 per night winter rate Annual Entrance Passes: Indiana resident: $36.00; Out of state: $46.00; Golden Hoosier: $18.00 Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Skiing, Ski Rental B Imagination Glen Park Once the snow falls, winter enthusiasts can set off on three miles of cross-country 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 GPS: Lat: 41.5853 Long: -87.1439 Address: 2275 McCool Road, Portage, IN 46368 Phone: 219-762-1675 Web: ci.portage.in.us Cost: Free Activities: Skiing Rogers-Lakewood Park Taltree Arboretum and Gardens The park has nearly four miles of cross-country skiing trails, and a huge sledding hill—it’s got three chutes for sledding and tubing and one chute for tobogganing. Atop the hill, there’s a winter shelter and a concessions stand. There’s also ice fishing atop the park’s lakes. 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. Or come indoors for one of many gardening classes. Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.5166 Long: -87.0659 Address: 5320 North Meridian Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Cost: Free Activities: Sledding, Tubing, Skiing, Ice Fishing Hours: Nov-Mar: 10am-4pm GPS: Lat: 41.4489 Long: -87.1533 Address: 450 West 100 North, Valparaiso, IN 46385 Phone: 219-462-0025 Web: taltree.org Cost: $10/free for members and children 4 and under Activities: Skiing, snowshoeing (with own equipment), gardening classes B B Santa’s Holiday Forest Cut down a fresh Christmas tree for your home (or pick up a fresh-cut 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! Tower Park Hours: 7am–7pm, Thanksgiving through Christmas Eve GPS: Lat: 41.5354 Long: -87.0482 Address: 95 East 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 Hours: Dawn-dusk GPS: Lat: 41.4769 Long: -87.0597 Address: 1000 North Franklin Street, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-462-5144 Web: valparaisoparks.org Cost: Quarters for lighting Activities: Ice Skating B WRF Nursery and Garden Center Sunset Hill Farm County Park 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. This former dairy farm transforms into a crosscountry skiing trail that winds its way through 286 acres. Don’t miss the park’s holiday lights festival that kicks off November 19 and continues to glow all the way through Christmas. Enjoy snowshoe workout classes Saturday mornings in winter ($5; equipment is provided; call to register). Hours: Dawn-dusk Holiday light festival: Fri-Sun, Thanksgiving through Christmas GPS: Lat: 41.5499 Long: -87.0662 Address: US Highway 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 Indiana Dunes State Park This park (named because it resides in the shadow of the town’s water tower) has open skating and hockey on its ice rink. The rink is lighted (coin-activated), and there’s a warming shelter and restrooms available. Hours: Mar 1-Dec 24 Mon-Sat 9am-6pm Sun 10am-4pm GPS: Lat: 41.4125 Long: -87.0222 Address: 253 East 150 South, Valparaiso, IN 46383 Phone: 219-548-7229 Web: wrfnursery.com Cost: Cost of pumpkins and trees varies Indiana Dunes Country is great to explore in the winter. Use this code or visit IndianaDunes.com/winter to learn more. INDIANADUNES.COM 63 Getting here INDIANA DUNES VISITOR CENTER Start your trip here with: • Helpful advice from our destination concierges, who are Indiana Dunes Country experts. • Guides and brochures detailing all the great attractions, restaurants, lodging and more in Indiana Dunes Country. • A short film in our theater about the history of The Indiana Dunes. • An exhibit hall featuring Indiana Dunes artwork from the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s Artist-inResidence program, wildlife displays and interactive displays for children. • A gift shop operated by the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore featuring clothing, books, stuffed animals and other great merchandise. • Display cases highlighting local businesses and attractions. • Restrooms and drinking fountains. • An after-hours lobby with 24/7 access to brochures and a phone that people can use to call directly to local lodging facilities. Directions: The Visitor Center is conveniently located at 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304. This is just north of the Indiana Toll Road and Interstate 94, and it is just south of Indiana Dunes State Park and US Highway 20. GPS: Lat: 41.6337 Long: -87.0539 W ant 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. Summer Hours: Memorial Day to Labor Day: 8am–6pm Central Standard Time (CST), seven days a week Off-season Hours: Labor Day to Memorial Day: 8:30 am–4:30 pm CST, seven days a week Local telephone number: 219-926-2255 Toll-free number: 800-283-8687 Email: [email protected] 64 Web: IndianaDunes.com …By Car …By Air …By Rail From Indianapolis, IN (south) 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. The South Shore Line from Chicago runs approximately every hour, and offers multiple stops near the National Lakeshore on weekdays, holidays and weekends. 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. 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. MDW & ORD: flychicago.com SBN: sbnair.com VPZ: vpz.org Need a place to stay while you’re visiting Indiana Dunes Country? …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 South Shore Line: nictd.com Check out our Accommodations listings on page 37–45 to find a hotel, motel, bed and breakfast or campground just right for you. Photo: Daniel E. Dombrowski Porter County Regional Airport Touch down in style at the area’s finest general aviation airport. 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 Road Valparaiso, IN 46383 Hours: Mon.–Fri. 6am–10pm Sat–Sun 7am–7pm Phone: 800-462-6508 Web: vpz.org Photography by Christine Livingston, Ken Kosky, Angela Pasyk and Lorelei Weimer of Indiana Dunes Tourism. Other photographs provided. This publication is produced by Indiana Dunes Tourism in cooperation with area attractions and companies. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information as of January 2014. Indiana Dunes Tourism is not liable for damages arising from errors, omissions or outdated information. No endorsement of products or services described is implied. Indiana Dunes Tourism 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]. ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 65 Visit IndianaDunes.com to plan your trip. Trip Planner Check out our suggested Indiana Dunes Country itineraries, or use our tools to create one for your trip. Available at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center Whether you enjoy hiking, bicycling, birdwatching, 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. Calendar of Events Art & Earth Trail Guide Beyond the Beach Discovery Trail Guide Video Podcasts Get an entertaining insider look at our standout attractions, restaurants and sights. Biking Guide Birding Guide Indiana Dunes Country Culinary Trail Specials & Packages Find special deals on hotels, dining, shopping, attractions and more to stretch your travel dollars even further. Indiana Dunes Tourism is the official destination marketing, planning and development organization for Indiana Dunes Country/Porter County, IN. We operate the Visitor Center in partnership with the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. 66 Event Planner Fishing Guide Kids Guide Visit us online to view all of our guides electronically. indianadunes.com/destination-guides/electronic-guides/ 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 Neighbor’s Choice Awards, and 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 home made 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: Sun–Thu 11am–10pm Fri.–Sat 11am–11pm Address: 428 South Calumet Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-LUCY (5829) Web: lucreziacafe.com ADVERTISEMENT Good to Go By Lucrezia 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-slashspecialty-market-slash-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, high-quality 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 daily-changing 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 a wine or craft beer flight while noshing on a cheese & charcuterie board. Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-5pm Address: 420 South Calumet Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-926-EVOO (3866) Web: goodtogobylucrezia.com ADVERTISEMENT INDIANADUNES.COM 67 Indiana Dunes Tourism 1215 N. State Road 49 Porter, IN 46304 800-283-8687 indianadunes.com 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 worryfree – 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. Our Emergency Center is staffed with board-certified emergency physicians and nurses specially trained DRIVE LESS. GETAWAY MORE. northern indiana 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. Hours: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year 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 the State Park—with shorter wait times to get you treated and on your way. Web: FranciscanAlliance.org/Chesterton Address: 770 Indian Boundary Road Chesterton, IN 46304 Phone: 219-921-2000 ADVERTISEMENT
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