- BY: KATHERINE BULTEMA
- Aug 01 2023 1:34 PM
Along The Indiana Lakeshore
Northwest Indiana is home to a shoreline stretch on beautiful Lake Michigan. Though many travel to Chicago beaches or Michigan to experience the Lake, we have a piece right in our backyard! The lakeshore has abundant activities, sightseeing, and dining for the whole family to enjoy this last stretch of summer.
Adventurous and outdoor lovers will cherish the Indiana Dunes National Park 15-mile stretch along the lakeshore with several beaches to relax in the sun. The park also offers hiking trails, campgrounds, bird watching, and kayaking. After you’ve enjoyed a day in the sun, we recommend a lakefront dinner at Dunes Pavilion, where you can watch the sunset while you dine!
For historical and educational sightseeing, Beverly Shores lakefront showcases 5 futuristic homes from the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair Century of Progress Homes, one of which is a flamingo pink home! Take a step back in time by visiting the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm on the Little Calumet River. While visiting the 19th-century farm, you can see the original maple house used to collect maple syrup, enjoy the scenic hiking trails, and greet the farm animals. If you want to see even more animals, head to the local Washington Park Zoo, home to lions, a tiger, zebra, and many more exotic animals. The zoo is guaranteed fun for the whole family!
If you're looking to shop, every Saturday through October, downtown Chesterton offers a European Market featuring local food vendors, an artisan craft fair, farmer’s market, and live entertainment. Another local way to shop is the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, with over 80 outdoor outlet stores like Banana Republic, Nike, and Kate Spade!