Plan Your Visit
Welcome to the Indiana Dunes
There is so much to see and do in the Indiana Dunes, it may be hard to know where to start. Here are some tools to help you make the most of your Indiana Dunes adventure. No matter what you choose to explore, we know you're about to have an unforgettable experience in one of nature's masterpieces.
Tools for the Perfect Vacation
Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
Start your trip at the Visitor Center and chat with our destination ambassadors. From activities and attractions to dining and shopping, they’ll help you curate the perfect vacation itinerary.
Digital Guides
Get immediate access to detailed information based on your interests, and start planning your vacation to the Indiana Dunes area today.
Printed Guides
Fill out our helpful online form to have an Indiana Dunes guide sent directly to your home.
Finding Your Way
How to Get to the Indiana Dunes
Before you lose yourself in the beauty of the Indiana Dunes, you’re going to want to find us. We’re perfectly positioned to give you more getaway and less getting here. In fact, half of the population of the U.S. lives within a 12-hour drive. We’re in the northwest corner of Indiana at the southern tip of Lake Michigan, just 45 minutes from Chicago, right off major interstates and highways. Of course, finding us is easy. The hard part will be leaving.
Area and Community Maps
Prefer the classic feel of a paper map or are you simply looking for more detailed information on the many communities and areas within the Indiana Dunes area? We’ve got you covered with a thorough collection of downloadable maps to get you to your vacation faster.
Porter County 50 Mile Radius – Download Map
Valparaiso & Vicinity – Download Map
Portage & Vicinity – Download Map
Chesterton & Vicinity – Download Map
Indiana Dunes Distance Map – Download Map
National Park Services Map – Download Map
![Fence along beach](https://assets.simpleviewinc.com/simpleview/image/upload/c_fill,f_jpg,h_640,q_65,w_640/v1/clients/porter/Photo1_HEADER_beach_in_Indiana_Dunes_768x512_700x500_83b71246-1b02-41ef-9f59-62f38a02703d.jpg)
Save Throughout the Dunes
Our Dunes Deals digital coupon book will help you make the most of your vacation. Discounts ranging from a free scoop of ice cream to savings on activities are like finding buried treasure.
Book a Place to Stay
Bed & Breakfasts
Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…
Hotels & Inns
A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…
Visit with Care
Each of us who visit the Indiana Dunes can also help protect natural heritage, biodiversity, and local culture by taking a few simple steps.
Tales from the Dunes
Read All StoriesBison Up Close: Guided Tours at Broken Wagon Bison
- 3 minute read
Have you “herd”?! You can see North America’s largest native land mammal grazing on fields in Northwest Indiana! Nestled in the Indiana Dunes region, and minutes from the…
Our Guide to the Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest
- 3 minute read
Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest is a serene escape for nature lovers, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful retreat. With its expansive trails, diverse gardens, abundant wildlife, and…
Top Things to Do in the Indiana Dunes Parks
- 4 minute read
Nestled along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, the Indiana Dunes are a national treasure. The Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park offer something for everyone—hiking scenic…
More Things to See & Do
Outdoor Adventures
Shaped by nature, made for adventure. In the Indiana Dunes, it’s all about fun times and tan lines—from…
Dunes Deals
Shake off the sand south of the Indiana Dunes! Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of…
Indiana Dunes Shop
Don’t just experience the Indiana Dunes; take it home with you. Find your new favorite T-shirt, hoodie, or…
Pet Friendly
There’s a reason Indiana Dunes National Park was named the #1 pet-friendly attraction in the state of Indiana…
Arts & Entertainment
It’s not all sand-fringed lakes and epic sunsets. Here, you’ll find a vibrant arts scene stoked by a…
Volunteer
Be the Change — Volunteer! Get more involved with the Indiana Dunes!