Adventures in Festival Country Indiana
It’s More Festive Here!
Just south of Indianapolis you’ll find the sovereign state of Festival Country. It’s not on most maps because its borders are primarily marked by a change in attitude, You see, in Festival Country the national pastime is having a good time. With 1,000 festivals, concerts and event, and an always festive vibe, you’re sure to find your fun.

Festivals and Concerts
What could be better than a day at the beach? Bring your own watercraft or rent one once you get here—there are so many ways to enjoy your days at the shore.

Freedom Springs/Water Parks
Known for the World’s Best Gummies, Albanese Candy Factory is the place to go for these chewy treats, plus chocolates, nuts and more. Browse the nostalgic candy section-you might find some of your childhood favorites!

Beer, Wine & Spirits Trail
Explore three floors of colorful, interactive fun as you check out some of the most famous professional and college sports mascots. See yourself on the big screen as a mascot, create your own and so much more.

Downtown Franklin
You’ll agree this large water park is “simply SPLASHtastic” after soaking up all the fun. Pictured is the first Double Dueling CannonBowl Ride in the world—just one of many thrilling water slides and rides at the park.

The Historic Artcraft Theatre and Artcraft Alley
You can run, jump, slide, bounce and splash for hours on this inflatable playground on water! The WhoaZone at Whihala Beach has four routes with different challenge levels, so it’s fun for all (must be age 7+ to play).

Flower Farms
Get ready to rock the region at the brand-new Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. Located near the South Shore of Lake Michigan, the Hard Rock brand will turn up the volume on the next level of style, service and signature hospitality.
Things to Do
Indiana Dunes State Park
- 1600 N. 25 East
- (219) 926-1952
Welcome to more than 2,000 acres of beach, marshes, forests and dunes. Hike to the top of Mount Tom, a sand dune…
Deep River Waterpark
- 9001 E Lincoln Hwy.
- (219) 947-7850
Indiana's premier water park. The perfect family escape! Wave pool, body slides, tube slides, river ride, play zone…
Indiana Dunes National Park
- 1100 N Mineral Springs Rd.
- (219) 926-7561
Indiana Dunes National Park is a treasure of diverse natural resources located within an urban setting. the park is…
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
- 5400 W 29th Ave
- (219) 228-2383
Get ready to rock the region at the brand-new Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana. Located near the South Shore of…
WhoaZone at Whihala Beach
- 1561 Park Road
- (866) 946-2966
WhoaZone at Whihala Beach, located in Whiting, offers a full day of family fun. Featuring our action-packed floating…
Mascot Hall of Fame
- 1851 Front St
- (219) 354-8814
A state-of-the-art children's museum with interactive exhibits, activities, and events that celebrate mascot fun…
Lodging
Home2Suites by Hilton Merrillville
- 8400 Indiana St
- 219-769-2620
This hotel is located minutes from many options for fun and food in Northwest Indiana. You can also enjoy the indoor…
Beachwalk Vacation Rentals
- 202 Beachwalk Ln
- (800) 814-7501
Professionally managed residential resort in greater Harbor Country, is perfect for family reunions, weekend…
The Brewery Lodge
- 5727 N. 600 W.
- (866) 625-6343
A boutique resort hotel located on 40 acres with peaceful views. Gourmet dining and a craft bee and wine lounge on…
Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago
- 777 Aldis Ave
- (219) 378-3000
This full-service luxury hotel features unmatched comfort and luxurious elegance, complete with world-class…
Miller Beach Vacation Rentals
- 12345 Miller Beach
- 219-292-3990
From beachfront villas to cozy cottages, our nine dog-friendly, year round, Smart homes border the Indiana Dunes…
Food & Drink
Prime Steakhouse
- 109 W Joliet St
- 219-663-7377
Located on the historic Crown Point Square, Prime Steakhouse is Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland's go-to steakhouse…
Goblin & the Grocer
- 1 W Dunes Hwy
- (219) 809-9047
Goblin and the Grocer. Gather. Sip. Savor. Destination dining in the Dunes!
South Shore Winery Trail
- 7770 Corinne Drive
- (219) 989-7979
Red or white, sweet or dry; you’ll find a wine to sip and enjoy along the South Shore Winery Trail. Northwest…
Asparagus Restaurant
- 7876 Broadway
- 219-794-0000
Enjoy a distinctive fine dining experience in an elegant, zen-like environment while savoring nouvelle cuisine…
The Lighthouse Restaurant
- 7501 Constitution Avenue
- 2193749283
Nestled on the shores of cozy Cedar Lake, the Lighthouse Restaurant welcomes residents, visitors and boaters with…
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Life is Better at the Beach IN Indiana
INDIANA INSIDER BLOG
Candy Lovers Flock To This Indiana Candy Factory
- 6 minute read
As my children get older and are now 11 and 14, I find that it's harder to find family outings that get them really excited. That is until we headed north to the Valparaiso/Merrillville area on a pilgrimage for candy. World's Best Gummies Ask anyone who has stopped at the Albanese Candy…