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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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