With 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, winding trails, and welcoming towns, the Indiana Dunes is one of the most accessible outdoor destinations in the Midwest. First-time visitors can explore two parks: Indiana Dunes National Park, known for its quiet trails and diverse habitats, and Indiana Dunes State Park, which offers a central beach, nature center, and popular hikes. Each park has its own entrance and fees, but both are worth visiting to get the full dunes experience. This guide introduces you to the highlights, including beaches, hikes, local dining, and seasonal events, so you can make the most of your first trip!
Hike and Explore the Dunes
3 Dune Challenge
This short but demanding 1.5-mile loop covers three of the tallest sand dunes in the state park. Visitors climb Mount Tom, Mount Holden, and Mount Jackson, gaining over 500 feet of elevation. It's a great introduction to Indiana Dunes hiking and one of the park’s signature experiences.
Tolleston Dunes Trail
Located within the national park, the Tolleston Dunes Trail is a 2.9-mile loop that includes savanna, marshes and views of distant ridges. It’s a quieter trail that’s excellent for spotting native wildlife. Wooden boardwalks and packed paths make the area accessible most of the year.
West Beach
For swimming, West Beach has lifeguards in the summer, public restrooms, and nearby picnic shelters. It's also the location of the Dunes Succession Trail, which takes guests through different dune ecosystems to a high overlook. Signs along the way tell the story of Alice Mabel Gray, a woman nicknamed Diana of the Dunes after she moved from Chicago to live in the wilderness. It's a great choice for visitors planning to spend their day near the water.
For other outdoor adventures like paddling, mountain biking, and fishing, check out our complete guide to Exploring the Indiana Dunes
Local Bites & Breweries
Third Coast Spice Café
Third Coast Spice Cafe in Chesterton serves breakfast and lunch with a focus on fresh, regional ingredients. The menu has plenty of vegetarian and gluten-free options.
Lucrezia Café
Lucrezia offers Italian-American dishes in a cozy setting with outdoor garden seating. The menu includes seafood, pasta, and an extensive wine list. Reservations are recommended for weekend evenings.
Octave Grill
Octave Grill in Chesterton serves craft burgers made with grass‑fed beef, over 25 gourmet toppings, house‑made sauces, and rotating dessert specials. It’s perfect for winding down after a day out exploring nature.
Blockhead Beerworks
Located in Valparaiso, Blockhead Beerworks mixes inventive brewing techniques with a delicious menu of Asian fusion bar fare. It’s a great spot to try something unexpected. Think: noodles and smash burgers paired with Korean BBQ fries, sushi, and potstickers.
Hunter’s Brewing
Hunter’s Brewing is a small craft brewery in Chesterton that produces a creative range of beers. They also offer vegan and locally sourced food options like pizzas, salads, and sandwiches.
Unmissable Annual Events
Valparaiso Popcorn Festival
Celebrate Valparaiso’s most iconic crop at the annual Popcorn Festival, a lively downtown tradition honoring native son Orville Redenbacher. With a full day of music, food, games, and Popcorn Parade, it’s a fun-for-all-ages tribute to small-town charm and buttery goodness.
Elvis FANtasy Fest
Held each fall in Portage, the Elvis FANtasy Fest is a heartfelt tribute to the King of Rock 'n' Roll. Fans gather for a weekend of live performances, costume contests, and celebrations that honor Elvis’s legacy while raising funds for a good cause.
Duneland Fall Festival
This autumn celebration features artisan vendors, harvest foods, and live music in Chesterton. It’s an awesome way to experience the local community and enjoy fall colors in the dunes. Activities range from kids' crafts and food tastings to outdoor concerts and more.
Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival
This annual event, held over two weeks in September, brings together hikers, bikers, paddlers, and nature lovers for over 100 guided programs. Participants can explore lesser-known parts of the national and state parks with expert guidance.
Looking for more unique things to do near the Indiana Dunes? Our handy guide highlights local favorites worth checking out!
What to Pack for the Indiana Dunes?
Packing depends on the time of year and type of outdoor activity.
In the spring, waterproof shoes, layers, and a windbreaker are all practical for muddy trails and unpredictable weather. Summer calls for sunscreen, swimwear, insect repellent, and lightweight clothing to beat the heat and humidity. Fall visitors should bring layers, sturdy shoes for leaf-covered paths, and a hat for cool mornings. Winter at the Indiana Dunes calls for insulated layers, gloves, and boots that can handle snowy trails and cold lake winds. Before heading out, be sure to check the weather for both the National and State Parks.
Ready to plan your first trip to the Dunes? Stay in the loop on upcoming events, seasonal tips, and local highlights by keeping an eye on our calendar—and be sure to stop by the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center for maps, insider recommendations, and up-to-date info. Your next adventure starts here!
