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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
Search
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
Family Fun 1 Header Item 1
Indiana DunesThings to DoFamily Fun

Family Fun in the Indiana Dunes

What will your family love about Indiana Dunes Country?

It might be running or sledding down the dunes, building sandcastles, splashing in Lake Michigan, camping under the stars or viewing birds and wildlife you’ve never seen. Maybe you’ll leave Indiana Dunes Country as a Junior Ranger or earn a park patch. Whatever adventures you find, Indiana Dunes Country is a getaway the whole family can agree on.

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Kid-approved Adventure Spots

Indiana Dunes Country is a perfect getaway spot for the whole family! Enjoy towering sand dunes, Lake Michigan beaches, a water park, outdoor adventures, indoor wonderlands and comfy accommodations.

The 3 Dune Challenge

Conquer The 3 Dune Challenge together as a family! Climb the three tallest dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park, then get a free sticker or buy a shirt to commemorate your accomplishment at the Visitor Center.

Diana of the Dunes Dare

Don’t just read about history, experience it! In honor of the daring and free spirit of Alice Mabel Gray, also known 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.

Don't Miss These Family Fun Hot Spots

Plan your trip in advance! Download our Activities Guide or have one sent right to your front door. And for real-time information, connect with us on social media.

Download A Digital Guide
Arts & Entertainment

49er Drive-In Theatre: Family Fun With a 1950s Feel

The 49er Drive-In Theatre is Northwest Indiana’s only drive-in theater. Enjoy all the aspects of a 1950s drive-in merged with modern-day convenience.

Must See & Do

Bass Pro Shops

This 130,000 square-foot store has everything for outdoor enthusiasts, including boats, fishing gear, and hunting equipment. There is also a giant…

Must See & Do

Broken Wagon Bison

Get up close and personal with our country’s largest native land mammal at this family-owned bison farm. Take a wagon tour to see a herd of more…

Attractions & Recreation

Hoosier Bat Company

Hoosier Bat is the third-largest manufacturer of regulation-quality wood bats in the world—and probably the only place you can touch a bat destined…

Casual Dining

The Port Drive-In

A visit to the Indiana Dunes area isn't complete without a visit to The Port Drive-In—a Chesterton icon since 1957. Dine inside or let carhops come…

Sweets & Treats

Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Shoppe

People from all over have been traveling to Valpo Velvet Ice Cream for the same homemade, rich, creamy, old-fashioned ice cream treats made by The…

Attractions & Recreation

Zao Island Amusement Center

An adventureland for grown-ups and kids alike with two miniature golf courses, go-karts, bumper cars, a game room, batting cages, a giant slide,…

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Blue Point Oysters & Sushi Bar

Blue Point Oysters and Sushi Bar restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Valparaiso. Enjoy a fine-dining seafood experience or a…

13 E. Lincolnway, Valparaiso

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Chesterton Brewery

A veteran-owned brewery giving back to veterans and local heroes with every pour of custom-crafted microbrews. A place where you can feel comfortable…

1050 Broadway, Ste. 36, Chesterton

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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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Speakeasy at the Spa

Witness the historic rebirth of the 1920’s speakeasy. The Speakeasy at the Spa compliments their Spa Special Events Center located on the same…

333 N. Mineral Springs Rd., Porter

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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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Save on Family Fun

Shake off the sand south of the Indiana Dunes! Dig up real savings with Indiana Dunes Deals and make the most of your vacation. Discounts ranging from a free scoop of ice cream to savings on activities are like finding buried treasure.

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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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.