Sand + Steel: A Regional Project for Northwest Indiana
Imagine a journey that weaves the Indiana Dunes, industrial heritage, and local heritage along U.S. Highway 12. Together with regional partners, Indiana Dunes Tourism is unveiling an initiative to develop a Sand + Steel theme along U.S. Route 12 and throughout surrounding communities.
We aren't just blue skies and pretty beaches; we're sand and steel, fire and smoke."—Portage Mayor Austin Bonta
Celebrate the Region
Let’s celebrate our region by weaving together our industrial heritage, cultural stories, local communities, and the Indiana Dunes. This is an opportunity to build regional pride and share a unique and compelling experience with visitors.
The Indiana Dunes showcases breathtaking sand dunes, diverse ecosystems, and a rich history. As a nationally protected treasure, the dunes highlights the balance between nature and industry.
The industrial heritage of Northwest Indiana is rooted in steel. Its communities have been forged by the flame and grit of steel and other industries.
The Sand + Steel route will celebrate the region through art that tells its authentic story. It will create a sense of pride for residents and a compelling experience for visitors.
Informational and wayfinding signage along the route will connect and interpret natural, cultural, and artistic points of interest along the Southern Shore of Lake Michigan.
Regional Initiatives
This effort builds on the work of several regional initiatives, including:
- The Calumet Heritage Area
- The Marquette Greenway
- The South Shore Train "Discovery Hubs"
We are seeking support from INDOT, the State of Indiana, the Lilly Foundation, and local communities and businesses to create a unifying brand.
Sand + Steel
Style Guide
Indiana Dunes Tourism produced this style guide to start the conversation around the Sand + Steel theme. You are welcome to download and use these designs.
Click the link below to download the Style Guide. It is also available by clicking "More Assets" further down the page.
Download Sand + Steel Assets
For additional assets, including Illustrator files, click the button below or contact Dustin Ritchea at dustin@indianadunes.com.
Join the Conversation
The following organizations, corporations, and communities have started the conversation. Official partnerships are still being finalized.
Organization Partners
- Cleveland-Cliffs
- Field Museum
- Indiana Dunes National Park
- Indiana Dunes State Park
- Indiana Dunes Tourism
- Northern Indiana Commuter Transportation District
- Northwest Indiana Forum
- Northwestern Indiana Regional Planning Commission
- Ports of Indiana-Burns Harbor
- Regional Development Authority
- Shirley Heinze Land Trust
- South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority
- Visit Michigan City LaPorte
Community Partners
- Beverly Shores
- Burns Harbor
- Chesterton
- Gary
- La Porte
- Michigan City
- Portage
- Porter
Interested in learning how you can become involved? Contact us using the form below and we'll reach out.