Things to Do

There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana, the possibilities are endless! Discover a variety of outdoor adventures including hiking the majestic dunes, relaxing on the beaches along the southern shores of Lake Michigan, cycling more than 160 miles of paved trails and rugged terrain, or camping under the stars. 

Get in touch with your creative side through arts & culture opportunities! Create your own works of art at places like Beale Pottery or Gratefully Painted. Enjoy a play or musical at the local theaters or feel the excitement of a live music performance.

Find your next favorite craft beer or Indiana wine. Splash at the waterpark, grab your ice skates or pick apples, creating memories with family and friends. Go shopping to find unique treasures and gifts to take home. There's always something fun to do along the South Shore!

Things to Do

Attractions

We invite you to enjoy 30 of the South Shore's unique and can't miss attractions.

Indiana Dunes

Learn about the Indiana Dunes State and National Parks. Find things to do, camping and hotels.

Family Fun

Explore fun things your family can do including waterparks, beaches, farm adventures & more.

Beaches

There are miles of beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan's South Shore, including the Indiana Dunes. 

Biking & Hiking Trails

Northwest Indiana and parts of Eastern Illinois contain 125 miles of biking and walking trails.

Outdoor Recreation

Whether you like having fun in the sun or playing in the snow, there are always things to do outdoors!

Shopping

Shop at antique, gift and specialty stores, a discount outlet center and enclosed shopping malls.

Arts & Culture

Explore the arts along Lake Michigan's South Shore with museums, art galleries, theaters and more.

Nightlife

Enjoy the nightlife in Northwest Indiana with casinos, comedy clubs, pubs, theaters and great restaurants.

Farm to Fork

Discover many agricultural things to do, including farms, u-pick orchards, farmers markets & events. 

Casinos

The South Shore's lakefront casinos rival no other in the Midwest for excitement and action! 

Spas & Wellness

Time to rejuvenate your mind, body and soul along the South Shore! 

Sports

If you love sports, you'll be pleased to find a multitude of sporting opportunities along the South Shore.

Things to Do FAQ

What attractions are unique to Indiana's South Shore region?

Indiana's South Shore is home to many unique attractions. The Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources comprised of more than 15,000 acres of dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers and forests along Lake Michigan's South Shore. Further south at Kankakee Sands you can watch a herd of bison roam the prairie. Fair Oaks Farms offers the experience of modern day farming in a fun, interactive setting. Don't forget to stop at Albanese Candy factory for the freshest gummies you can find!

Find More Unique Experiences

What is there to do at the Indiana Dunes?

The Indiana Dunes has so much more to offer than just its beautiful beaches. Hike or bike more than 60 miles of trails through woods, marshes and dunes. Set up camp under the stars. Try to spy more than 350 different bird species. Canoe or kayak through streams and rivers. Feed the farm animals at Chellberg Farm.

Here are 61 Things to Do at the Indiana Dunes

Are there any free things to do in Northern Indiana's South Shore area?

There are many free things to do along Lake Michigan's South Shore. Travel by foot or bike along miles of trails or kayak through lakes and rivers. Take the kids to the many parks throughout the area. Journey through the Shrine of Christ's Passion or visit numerous art galleries. Watch vintage baseball with the Deep River Grinders or stroll through the farmers' markets. In the winter, sled down the hills at the region's parks and golf courses.

Discover 30 Free Things to Do

Where can I enjoy outdoor recreation in Northern Indiana?

The South Shore of Lake Michigan offers plenty of locations to enjoy the great outdoors in every season. Visit the Indiana Dunes for fishing, swimming, hiking, cross-country skiing, birding and camping. Book a fishing charter on Lake Michigan or kayak along miles of water trails. Play a round of golf at Lost Marsh or spend the day splashing at Deep River Waterpark. Stroll the public gardens at Friendship Botanic Gardens or Gabis Arboretum.

Find Outdoor Adventures Year-Round


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