South Shore Indiana
Let’s Go to the Beach!
You can say “yes” to this enthusiastic request when you load up the car and head to Indiana’s South Shore, just a 30-minute drive from downtown Chicago and home to the Indiana Dunes National Park! Climb to the top of a soaring sand dune for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and then venture on out into the water. And the beach isn’t all! From water parks and baseball to shopping and casinos, the South Shore offers fun for all ages.

Indiana Dunes National Park
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.

Albanese Candy Factory
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!

Mascot Hall of Fame
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.

WhoaZone at Whihala Beach
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).

Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
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.

South Shore Brewery Trail
The South Shore knows about hops! Download their app as you check out more than 20 breweries and alehouses in the area.
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…
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…
Fair Oaks Farms Adventure Center
- 856 N 600 E
- (877) 536-1194
Escape to the country with outdoor fun, food and learning where you can explore family farms and reconnect with…
Harvest Tyme Family Farm
- 17904 Grant Street
- (219) 440-2386
Harvest Tyme Family Farm continues to add activities and attractions to the Farm, extending the season from Spring…
Lodging
Beachwalk Vacation Rentals
- (219) 879-7874
Professionally managed residential resort in greater Harbor Country, is perfect for family reunions, weekend…
Hampton Inn & Suites Crown Point
- 10850 Delaware Parkway
- (219) 661-8181
Come enjoy an elevated experience at our brand-new Hampton Inn! Our spacious rooms with a modern feel will have you…
Home2 Suites by Hilton - Hammond
- 2847 Carlson Drive
- (219) 230-8600
This dynamic and savvy brand is designed to make guests feel at home regardless of their length of stay, while…
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…
SpringHill Suites Munster
- 9651 Calumet Ave
- (219) 924-2700
Travel in style at SpringHill Suites by Marriott® Chicago Southeast/Munster, the all-suite hotel that seamlessly…
The Brewery Lodge and Supper Club
- 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…
Food & Drink
Asparagus
- 7876 Broadway
- 219-794-0000
Enjoy a distinctive fine dining experience in an elegant, zen-like environment while savoring nouvelle cuisine…
Council Oak Steaks & Seafood
- 5400 West 29th Avenue
Your dining experience will take you on a culinary journey that will exceed your palate's expectations. Your taste…
Culinary Misfits
- 208 S. Main St.
- (219) 281-2011
Crown Point, Indiana's newest dining experience is here and ready to impress! Bring your friends and family out to…
The Caribbean on Lake George
- 200 Main Street
- (219) 940-3232
The Caribbean is a quaint restaurant and bar located on Lake George’s Riverfront and offers amazing Puerto Rican…
The Lighthouse Restaurant
- 7501 Constitution Avenue
- 2193749283
Nestled on the shores of cozy Cedar Lake, the Lighthouse Restaurant welcomes residents, visitors and boaters with…
The Region Cat Cafe
- 281 W 80th Place
Looking for something new to try on your lunch break? Why not watch kitties while you eat? We have seats and a…
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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…