The Indiana Dunes area really outdoes itself when it comes to outdoor dining experiences. Whether you're looking to relax on a cozy porch, eat brunch under shady trees, or party on a rooftop bar, we have just the outdoor dining spot you're looking for. With so many wonderful restaurants to choose from, it might be hard to decide which to visit. So we asked our locals what their favorite outdoor dining experiences are in the Indiana Dunes area. The restaurants with the most loved outdoor dining experience are (in alphabetical order):

(219) Taproom

(219) Taproom is a traditional yet unique taproom with a family-friendly area. They serve 16 different draft beers from 16 different breweries. The outdoor patio has umbrella-covered tables and bar-style seating with stools.

Outdoor patio at (219) Patio

Gastro 49 Pub & Eatery

Gastro 49 Pub & Eatery has tons of hometown charm and serves flavorful burgers and sandwiches. Locals can't say enough good things about Gastro 49. Few other restaurants in our poll garnered such enthusiastic comments. Lidia B. loves "absolutely everything. [The] food is delicious, the staff is super friendly and the outdoor seating is perfect!"

Gastro 49

Goblin and the Grocer

Goblin and the Grocer is a café, market, and pub all in one. Nestled in the surrounding trees, its laid-back patio is family and pet-friendly. It's the perfect spot to relax outdoors, have a great meal, and grab some market items for home.

Lucrezia Café

Lucrezia Café has a dreamy outdoor patio with stringed lights and the area's tallest Japanese Maple tree. Locals especially love the atmosphere on the patio describing it as "cool, calming, and beautiful". The front porch also offers a private table perfect for diners who like watching the world go by.

Lucrezia Cafe

Radius

Radius offers al fresco dining and live entertainment right in the heart of downtown Valparaiso. Radius' menu offers an array of creative burgers, sandwiches, and an extensive list of specialty cocktails. Several Keto-friendly meal options are also available.

A black sign reads Radius. Underneath is an Open sign.

Stacks Bar and Grill

Stacks Bar and Grill's rooftop has a small plate menu and cocktails and a view of Valparaiso that's hard to beat. Besides loving the cozy library theme of the restaurant, locals keep coming back for the food and wonderful staff.

An aerial view of diners on a rooftop bar. The sun is setting in the background

Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Shoppe

Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Shoppe has been serving ice cream to residents and visitors since 1947. Eating one of their almost 50 flavors of ice cream on their porch makes you feel right at home. Be sure to walk around the building and check out the cow murals before you leave!

Scooping ice cream at Valpo Velvet

Wagner's Ribs

Wagner's Ribs is known for its award-winning ribs, but the outdoor patio is just as impressive. Donna L. said Wagner's outdoor dining space is her favorite because "their outdoor deck is peaceful and cool even on a hot day". The patio has plenty of space and is shaded by mature trees. Wagner's is a 21 and over restaurant. 

Wagner's Ribs