If you’re heading to Indiana Dunes National Park, you’re already in for some incredible outdoor adventures, but the fun doesn’t stop there! The surrounding area is packed with great spots to explore, from fascinating museums to peaceful gardens and a few surprises along the way. Whether you’re taking a break from the dunes or looking for something different to do nearby, here are 10 awesome things to check out in the surrounding counties. Ready to explore beyond the beach? Let’s dive in!
1. La Porte County Historical Society Museum
2405 Indiana Ave., La Porte, IN 46350
https://laportecountyhistory.org/
Hours: Tues-Sat 10am-4:30, guided tours available at 2:00 on Saturdays
Admission: Adults $5; Seniors $4; Children under 18 Free
It’s not on the website, but we visited on a Tuesday and they told us it was Two for Tuesday, so we only had to pay for one of us.
The La Porte County Historical Society Museum is definitely worth a stop if you’re exploring Indiana Dunes. It’s got a mix of quirky and fascinating exhibits that make it more than just a typical small-town museum. You’ll find everything from vintage cars to local history displays, but the real standout is the Belle Gunness exhibit, which dives into the life of one of America’s most infamous female serial killers. Whether you’re into history or just looking for something offbeat, this museum adds a unique twist to your trip.
Check out our two previous posts on the La Porte County Historical Society Museum at:
- A Step Back in Time at the La Porte County Historical Society Museum
- True Crime in the Heartland: Exploring the Belle Gunness Exhibit
2. Old Lighthouse Museum
100 Heisman Harbor Road, Michigan City, IN 46360
https://www.mchistorical.org/
Hours: April 3- Oct 31 Wed-Sun 1-4pm
Admission: Adults $10; Age 14 + Under Free; Military/Veterans/Police/Fire Free
The Old Lighthouse Museum in Michigan City is a must-visit if you’re in the Indiana Dunes area. It’s housed in one of the oldest lighthouses on the Great Lakes, and the museum is packed with local maritime history. You can climb the tower for great views of Lake Michigan and explore exhibits about shipwrecks, lighthouse keepers, and the area’s nautical past. It’s a fun, quick stop that gives you a glimpse into what life was like on the shores of Lake Michigan back in the day. While you’re there, visit Washington Park Beach and take a walk out on the current lighthouse pier.
3. Beverly Shores Depot Museum and Art Gallery
525 S Broadway, Beverly Shores, IN 46301
https://bsdepot.org
Hours: Fri 1-5pm, Sat 10am-5pm, Sun 11am-3pm
Admission: Free
The Depot Museum in Beverly Shores is a charming little spot that’s worth a visit if you’re exploring Indiana Dunes. Located in a beautifully restored 1929 train station, the museum focuses on the history of the town and its unique architectural past. You can learn about the famous Century of Progress homes that were relocated here from the 1933 Chicago World’s Fair and see exhibits on local rail history. It’s a small museum, but its historical charm and interesting exhibits make it a great stop, especially if you’re into architecture or trains! The Depot is also the starting point for the Beverly Shores Heritage Trail self-guided walking tour. This tour takes you around the town to various interpretive signs to learn more about the history of Beverly Shores.
4. Schoolhouse Shop
278 E CR-1500 N, Chesterton, IN 46304
https://schoolhouseshop.net/
Hours: Wed-Mon 10am-5pm
The Schoolhouse Shop in Furnessville is a cozy, off-the-beaten-path spot worth checking out while visiting Indiana Dunes. Housed in a charming 19th-century schoolhouse, this unique gift shop is filled with an eclectic mix of home décor, gourmet food items, and locally made crafts. Whether you’re looking for a special souvenir or just browsing for something fun, the shop has a little bit of everything. It’s a delightful stop, and the historical building adds a nostalgic touch to your shopping experience.
5. Chesterton European Market
220 Broadway Ave, Chesterton, IN 46304
https://www.dunelandchamber.org/european-market
Every Saturday beginning May- end of October 8am-2pm
The Chesterton European Market is a lively, must-visit spot if you’re around Indiana Dunes on a Saturday. It’s a bustling market with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce and baked goods to handmade crafts and art. There’s always a great mix of food trucks and live music, making it a fun experience for everyone. Plus, it’s the perfect excuse to explore the charming downtown Chesterton shops while you’re there, so you can grab some unique finds and enjoy the local scene. This was seriously one of the best markets we’ve been to in the Midwest.
6. Westchester Township History Museum
700 W Porter Ave, Chesterton, IN 46304
https://wpl.lib.in.us/westchester-township-history-museum/
Hours: Wednesdays, 2nd & 4th Saturdays 12-5pm. Tues/Thur/Fri by appointment
Admission: Free
The Westchester Township History Museum in Chesterton is a great place to learn about the local history while visiting Indiana Dunes. It’s located in a charming old Victorian home and offers exhibits on the area’s past, including the development of the dunes and local industries. The museum also has rotating exhibits and special events, so there’s always something new to see. In our two weeks staying near Indiana Dunes, we ended up at the museum 3 times. We went to trivia one night, took a tour of the historic house and checked out the exhibits another day, and then a third day for their history hunt program.
7. Ogden Gardens
451 Harrison Blvd, Valparaiso, IN 46385
http://valpoparks.org/692/Ogden-Botanical-Garden
Ogden Gardens in Valparaiso is a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy nature while you’re near Indiana Dunes. It’s a small but charming garden with colorful flower beds, tranquil ponds, and winding paths. The Japanese garden is a standout, featuring a peaceful koi pond and lovely landscaping. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to take a stroll or just want to snap some photos of the blooms, Ogden Gardens is a lovely, low-key stop that’s perfect for a relaxing afternoon. We visited a few gardens around the Indiana Dunes area, and Ogden Gardens was the best maintained one.
8. Porter County Museum
20 Indiana Ave, Valparaiso, IN 46383
https://www.pocomuse.org/
Hours: Tues-Sun 11am-5pm
Admission: Free
The Porter County Museum in Valparaiso may be small, but it’s packed with interesting exhibits that showcase the local history. You’ll find everything from artifacts from Porter County’s past to displays on local art and culture. They also have rotating exhibits and host special events, so there’s always something new to check out. It’s a quick but worthwhile stop if you’re curious about the area’s history, and the museum’s cozy size makes it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed. When we visited, they were running two different exhibit scavenger hunts which was a fun way to dive deeper into the objects on display- and we earned prizes!
9. Gabis Arboretum
450 W 100 N, Valparaiso, IN 46385
https://www.pnw.edu/gabis-arboretum/
Arboretum Hours: Daily 8am-Sunset
Model Train Hours: Fri-Sun May-Oct 10am-3pm
Admission: $10 per carload
Railroad Garden Additional Admission: $3/person, Kids 5 + Under Free
Gabis Arboretum is a hidden gem near Indiana Dunes, perfect for anyone who loves nature. One of the highlights is the amazing Railway Garden, where model trains chug along intricate tracks through detailed landscapes, complete with tiny buildings and bridges. It’s fun for all ages and a great way to appreciate a mix of gardening and craftsmanship. Beyond that, the arboretum offers beautiful walking trails, wildflower gardens, and peaceful spots to relax, making it an ideal escape from the beach crowds.
Check out our full post on the Gabis Arboretum (including lots more Railway Garden photos) here: A Day at Gabis Arboretum: The Magic of the Railway Garden and Beyond
10. 3 Pizza Challenge
https://www.indianadunes.com/explore-the-dunes/experiences/three-pizza-challenge/?bounds=false&view=list&sort=rankOrder
If you’re a pizza lover, the Indiana Dunes Tourism Board’s 3 Pizza Challenge is a fun way to add some flavor to your trip! The challenge is simple: sign up the challenge, visit three local pizzerias in the Indiana Dunes area and check in at each one on your phone. Once you’ve completed the challenge, you’ll earn a free Indiana Dunes Pizza Challenge sticker. It’s a great way to support local businesses, discover some great pizza, and enjoy a little extra fun on your visit! Our two favorite spots we visited for the challenge were AJ’s Pizza Co, which has fun monthly specials and Val’s Famous Pizza and Grinders, which is a classic old school spot with great tasting food.
More to Do at Indiana Dunes
If you’re looking for things to do within Indiana Dunes National Park, check out our post on the Top 5 things to do in the park.
Where to Stay near Indiana Dunes
Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana Dunes State Park both have campgrounds. But if you’re looking for full hook-ups or the public campgrounds are full, another option is Sand Creek Campground. Check out our full guide and review.
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