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Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
Explore the Dunes Dunes 101Getting HereIndiana Dunes National ParkIndiana Dunes State ParkOutdoor Adventures 9Outdoor AdventuresVisitor Center
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Close
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Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes
Explore the DunesExplore the Dunes
Explore the Dunes Dunes 101Getting HereIndiana Dunes National ParkIndiana Dunes State ParkOutdoor Adventures 9Outdoor AdventuresVisitor Center
Things to DoThings to Do
Things to Do Must See & DoArts & EntertainmentAttractions & RecreationOur CommunitiesPet FriendlyPet FriendlyShoppingVolunteerWinter Activities
Eat & DrinkEvents
Places to StayPlaces to Stay
Places to Stay Bed & BreakfastsHotels & InnsRVs & CampgroundsVacation HomesVacation Homes
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Indiana DunesExplore the DunesIndiana Dunes National Park

Indiana Dunes National Park

Walk on glacial sands, pushed and pulled by time into dunes nearly 250 feet high. Paddle across a 300-mile-long lake with waves and scenery that rival the Atlantic. A place unlike anywhere else on Earth? We’re not just putting wind in your sails. It’s a haven for hikers. A beacon for birders. A tenement for tenters. With an unparalleled position along 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, 50 miles of rugged trails, and a diverse ecosystem of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and old-growth forest, Indiana Dunes National Park is a destination for outdoor adventurers of all kinds.

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Diana of the Dunes Dare

In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also know as Diana, a nearby sand hill has been named “Diana’s Dune.” You can now hike in Alice’s footsteps and explore the natural wonders of her beloved Dunes terrain.

Dunes 101

Join Ranger Matt in our Dunes 101 Series to explore everything you need to know about the Indiana Dunes including how to make the most out of your experience.

Drop-In Volunteering

We offer no-hassle volunteering through our drop-in program. Just show up — we provide the gear and training. Opportunities are available every day, so come lend a hand in preserving this beautiful place!

Indiana Dunes National Park Pass

Learn more about the Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park entrance fees as well as how to buy daily and annual passes.

Enjoy the Views

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National Park Listings

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Chesterton Toys

This shop is a wonderland of classic and wooden toys, as well as unique, modern playthings, all with a strong focus on “kid-powered”…

201 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton

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Country Inn & Suites by Radisson – Portage

Enjoy the comforts of home at the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, located just 10 minutes from the Indiana Dunes. This charming hotel has plenty of…

1630 Olmstead Dr., Portage

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Evexia Salt Cave

Evexia Salt Cave will take you back to the year 1839 when the first salt mine health resort was opened in Poland. We have created a simulated…

1583 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton

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Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

Want to create a personalized tour of the Indiana Dunes area? Stop by the Visitor Center where our front desk destination concierges will help you…

1215 N. State Road 49, Porter

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Lifestyles

You’ll feel like Alice in Wonderland in this eclectic, edgy store. Every inch of its 10,000 square feet is filled with one-of-a-kind gifts from…

122 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso

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Spring House Inn

It’s one part hotel, one part country retreat, and all parts comfort. With more than 50 rooms perfect for business travelers, families, and anyone…

303 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter

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The Flour Shoppe Bakery

Locally owned and operated gluten-free bakery. They offer sweet and savory options, bubble tea, and gourmet coffee.

540 Indian Boundary Rd., Chesterton

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(219) Taproom

They feature 16 taps shared with only a few carefully curated breweries Their beers are unique to NWI! Their menu is as creative and unique as their…

109 S. 3rd St., Chesterton

312 Cafe

Family-friendly, work-friendly, full bar, and espresso bar. Dine-in, catering, and todo. Kids menu available.

312 N. Madison St., Hebron

49’er Drive-In Theatre

Experience a blast from the past at a place that has been chosen as one of the top drive-ins in the nation. Open weekends in April, May, and…

675 N. Calumet Ave., Valparaiso

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Tales from the Dunes

The Indiana Dunes Blog

Did you know the Indiana Dunes has a 15-mile coastline with sandy beaches, more than 70 miles of hiking trails and more than 350 species of birds? Explore the latest and greatest tales from the dunes.

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Beaches

Dunes 101: How to Stay Safe in the Dunes

Check out these safety tips and guidelines about how to be a responsible visitor when enjoying the Indiana Dunes.

Beaches

Dunes 101: Where are the Indiana Dunes beaches?

The Indiana Dunes beaches get a lot of attention—and for good reason! Visiting an Indiana Dunes beach is a no-brainer, but which beach should you…

Communities

Main Streets TV visits the Indiana Dunes

John McGivern's Main Streets visited the Indiana Dunes to film an episode of their travel show about the main streets of Midwestern communities.…

Indiana Dunes National Park Events

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Art Exhibits

Art Blitz

September 17 - September 18, 2022

The annual Art Blitz event helps the Art Barn highlight its educational art offerings with live demonstrations and exhibitions of regional art.…

Food / Beverage

Group Bike Ride: Autumn Colors

Thursday, October 13, 2022

Grab your bike, get your friends and family together and join us for this FREE family-friendly community ride. A great way to meet new friends…

Historical

Wonders of Wildlife

Saturday, August 20, 2022

Join a ranger at the Paul H. Douglas Center and learn about an animal species that are native to the Indiana Dunes. Time 10:00 am-noon.

Community

Lake Michigan Boat Tours – Saturdays

August 13 - August 27, 2022

 Join a ranger for a guided 90-minute boat tour on Lake Michigan with Harbor Country…

Environment / Nature

4th Friday Open Mic Nights

August 12 - November 25, 2022

The PoCo Muse will offer a free, kid-friendly scavenger hunt activity! Put on your architect/designer cap and answer questions hidden throughout…

Exhibits

Gabis Arboretum Railway Garden Train

August 7 - September 30, 2022

Featuring dwarf plants and model steam engine trains, the exhibit showcases the impact steam engine trains had on early 19th century US railroads.…

Indiana Dunes Activities

Unplug from everyday stress and connect to nature with over 70 miles of hike-able trails, 15 miles of swim-able coastline, and over 350 species of migratory birds.

Volunteer in the Dunes

Be the change by getting more involved with the Indiana Dunes!

There are many no-hassle, volunteer drop-in opportunities available for everyone. Just show up, and the organization provides the gear and training.

More Things to See & Do

Beaches

Online Gift Shop
Pet Friendly 4

Pet Friendly
Arts & Entertainment

Arts & Entertainment
Volunteer Drop-In Program 6

Volunteer Drop-In
Outdoor Adventures 3

Outdoor Adventures
A woman shopping at an outdoor festival

Dunes Deals

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Book a Place to Stay

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Bed & Breakfasts

Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods to award-winning romantic getaways surrounded by gardens.

Hotels & Inns

A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or a place you can bring your four-legged friend? Your unique getaway deserves a distinct accommodation.