Summer in the Indiana Dunes is wide open! For some, that means stretching out on the beach. For others, it’s the draw of a local festival or a slow walk through the woods. However you take in the season, this guide will help you shape your perfect summer getaway around the Dunes.
Summer Activities in the Indiana Dunes: What to Do?
The Indiana Dunes are home to nine swimmable beaches stretched across 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline. At Indiana Dunes National Park, you’ll find quiet spots like Central Beach and Kemil, plus wide-open favorites like West Beach and Portage Lakefront. Just east, Indiana Dunes State Park has a spacious beach backed by towering dunes—and it’s where you’ll find the start of the 3 Dune Challenge.
That challenge? A 1.5-mile hike that climbs the three tallest dunes in the park. It’s steep, scenic, and worth the bragging rights. If you’re after water activities, Lake Michigan delivers. Cast a line, launch a kayak, or set off along the Lake Michigan Water Trail, a designated paddling route with access points throughout the region.
The Indiana Dunes also draws birders year-round. Over 350 species pass through or nest here, and you can explore at your own pace with a self-guided route or join a local outing with groups like Indiana Audubon or Indigo Birding.
Local markets round out the experience. Chesterton’s European Market runs every Saturday through October with handmade goods, fresh produce, and baked treats. In Valparaiso, the downtown market features live music and food vendors on Tuesdays and Saturdays.
Summer Festivals and Events in the Indiana Dunes
Summer stays busy around the Indiana Dunes, with community events, outdoor concerts, and plenty of ways to make the most of the season.
Outdoor Movies in the Park
Tuesdays in June and July, head to Central Park Plaza in Valparaiso for a laid-back movie night under the stars. Pre-show activities start at 5:30 PM; the film begins at 7:00. For more information, read our blog on Movies in the Park!
Summer Concert Series
Live music fills Central Park Plaza every Thursday evening from July 17 through August 25. Pre-show entertainment begins at 5:30 PM; concerts run from 7:00 to 8:30 PM. Bring a chair or blanket and settle in!
Valparaiso Wine Festival
Downtown Valparaiso will host this popular tasting event on Saturday, July 19 from 5:00 to 8:00 PM. Expect live entertainment, a variety of vendors, and more than 100 wines to sample—many of them made right here in Indiana!
Porter County Fair
Running July 17–26, the fair brings concerts, bull riding, monster trucks, fair food, carnival rides, animal shows, and more to the heart of summer.
Ready to start planning your summer escape? Check out our events calendar for what’s coming up, explore more things to do around the Dunes, and book your stay now to lock in the best spots for the season!
