What to do when you have 18 people, 2 days, and want to see as much as possible in the Indiana Dunes? You do what the Brand USA MegaFam Tour did and follow our group itinerary. These 18 travel agents toured the dunes and Valparaiso before continuing to Chicago. But why tell you when we can show you? Check out their great social media posts from their visit!

 

#elementswinebar #amustgo #usamegafam #elegantwinebar #PS A post shared by Lucie Boreham (@flyingvirgo) on

 

 

Out on the Bison farm this morning #usamegafam #bison @visitindiana #indiana #ps

 

A post shared by Heather (@helloheathersworld) on

 

The largest university chapel in the world, holds over 2000 #usamegafam #ps #universityofvalparaiso A post shared by Cathie O'Dea (@cathieodea) on

Want to repeat the Brand USA itinerary? We thought so!

DAY ONE

Arrive at Indiana Dunes Visitor Center - 10am Central Time Stop at the Visitor Center to pick up printed guides, watch a short film about the dunes, shop in the gift shop and appreciate the landscaping of this National Certified Wildlife Habitat and certified Monarch Waystation.

Hike at Pinhook Bog - 11:00 am This true bog is a must-see adventure experience. Located several miles inland, away from the rest of the Indiana Dunes National Park, Pinhook Bog has a floating boardwalk where you can view carnivorous plants, sphagnum moss and blueberry bushes. You’ll walk above the sponge-like layer on the bog’s surface in the most unexpected environment in the dunes. Arrangements for tours must be made with the National Park Service.

Lunch from South Shore Ovenworks - 12:45 pm Wood fired pizzas with fresh local ingredients. Owner and pizza maker Jim bakes pizzas right on site.

Head to Indiana Dunes State Park - 1:30pm Spend time at the beach where you can see the Chicago skyline in the distance. Also explore the nature center. Adventure buffs can take on the 3 Dune Challenge - a 1.5-mile hike that takes you up the three tallest dunes. For those who might want a more relaxing experience, take a walk down trail 10 (birding is great on this trail!).

Check in to accommodations - Inspiration Wood Cottage Inn - 3:30 or 4:00 pm Inspiration Wood is owned and managed by Ron and Kim VanSessen, who might just be the perfect hosts. The peaceful location about ten minutes outside of town includes cottages with full kitchens and living space. The property has walking trails, a pond and a gathering space for groups.

Downtown Valparaiso dining - 5:30pm Enjoy a drink before dinner at Elements Wine Bar, then explore the dining in downtown Valparaiso.

DAY TWO

Breakfast at Third Coast Spice Cafe - 8:30 am Fresh, local ingredients are the number one goal at this restaurant. We recommend the omelets made from cage-free local eggs. Oh, and don’t forget the fresh-squeezed orange juice!

Broken Wagon Bison Farm - 10:30 am Get up close to bison at this local-owned ranch - so close that the bison eat hay right from the wagon you’re riding in! The owners conduct the tours themselves and provide a rich experience about rehabilitating the American Bison population. The shop features products and meat from bison on the farm.

Valparaiso Chapel visit with short tour - 12:00 pm Considered one of the beautiful collegiate chapels in the world. Take a short stop at the chapel to see its beauty and learn about its features. Valparaiso University attracts students from around the nation, so it’s a great look at what makes us special beyond the dunes.

Downtown Valparaiso Shopping - 1:00 pm Time for the group to browse in the shops of downtown Valparaiso. A competitive shopping game for those interested will also be available.

Dessert first! - Tour Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Shop - 2:30 pm Local ice cream handmade for three generations. Includes a tour of the facilities and an ice cream sample. We will also have lunch here, including great homemade soups and sandwiches.