Casinos
Try your luck at one of the 5 casinos in Northwest Indiana: Horseshoe Casino Hammond, Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago, Majestic Star Casinos & Hotel in Gary or the Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City. Each casino features slots and table games as well as on-site restaurants and live entertainment.
The Dunes, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
Nothing defines the region quite like our #1 pick for top things to do in Northwest Indiana. If you haven’t experienced a blow-out…make it your top goal for 209. Paradise! From Chicago to Michigan… the Dunes are a special opportunity to experience life. More than 15,000 acres of wetlands, bogs, prairies, dunes, rivers, and forests make up the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Visitors can view rare birds and exotic flowers or hike and bike miles of trails.
The sandy beaches are the perfect spot to relax and enjoy beautiful Lake Michigan.
Fair Oaks Farms
Escape to the country with fun, food, and learning at Fair Oaks Farms. Family-friendly tours include the Dairy Adventure, Pig Adventure and Crop Adventure. Fair Oaks Farms has on-site restaurants and an outdoor play area. Don’t forget to grab some fresh ice cream before you leave!
Mascot Hall of Fame, Whiting
The much anticipated Mascot Hall of Fame is now open in Whiting! The 25,000 square foot facility is interactive and family-friendly with a wide range of exhibits, activities, and events that celebrate mascot fun.
Deep River Waterpark/Ice Skating, Crown Point
Cruise down dozens of waterslides and water rides for all ages at the waterpark or skate under the clocktower in the winter. The perfect family getaway in all seasons.
Albanese Confectionery, Merrillville
Stop in for roasted nuts, World’s Best Gummies, chocolates and other sweet confections at this candy factory. Take a video tour of the factory and enjoy an experience where you feel like a kid again! www.albanesecandy.com
South Shore Winery Trail
Enjoy sipping on handcrafted and small-batch wines at 11 wineries in the South Shore. From sweet whites to dry reds, ciders, meads, and more – you’ll find your favorite in the South Shore
Shrine of Christ’s Passion, St. John
This free interactive half-mile winding pathway begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsmane and features 40 life-size bronze sculptures depicting the Passion of Christ.
South Shore Arts/Theatre at the Center/NWI Symphony Orchestra, Munster
The Center for Visual and Performing Arts houses an art gallery, a theatre, gift shop and is the home of the NWI Symphony Orchestra. Catch a Broadway-style play or musical, view artworks by local and nationally recognized artists – all here in Northwest Indiana
Pierogi Fest, Whiting
Held the last weekend, Pierogi Fest brings thousands of visitors to 119th Street in downtown Whiting. The event kicks off with the wacky Polka Parade on Friday. More than 50 food vendors sell everything from roasted nuts to the infamous stuffed dumpling (the pierogi). Live entertainment, a beer tent and so much more are available at this kooky festival.
WhoaZone at Whihala Beach
Bounce, jump, run, play and splash your way through this floating waterpark and obstacle course at Whihala Beach in Whiting. 1561 Park Rd, Whiting, IN.