Did you know that the Indiana Dunes has only five fewer species than Yosemite? Discover what else makes the Indiana Dunes area so unique on the Discovery Trail. Visit places like sprawling wetlands, majestic dunes, and quaking bogs all while keeping an eye out for magnificent birds and witnessing…
The Indiana Dunes Deals Pass is a FREE digital coupon book with a wide selection of coupons and discounts on attractions, restaurants, shops, and more. Dunes Deals is your ticket to an affordable getaway near the south shore of Lake Michigan. Don't break the bank — grab the Indiana Dunes Deals…
The movement to protect the Indiana Dunes started back in 1899 and still continues to this day. Learn how to help protect the stunning scenery and thousands of acres of adventure-filled wilderness during your stay.
Make tracks for nostalgia in a vintage rail car turned B&B. Find yourself lost—and found—at an old-world, Tudor-style retreat in the middle of the forest. From unexpected digs to laid-back, beachside family getaways where shoes are optional, you’ll find a stay to suit every travel style tucked…
The 3 Dune Challenge
Climb up the three tallest dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park. It’s 1.5 miles of tough trail and 100% brag-worthy.
49er Drive-in
Load up the car and experience a blast from the past at one of the top drive-ins in the nation.
Chesterton's European Market
Check out this outdoor artisanal market held in historic downtown Chesterton every Saturday during the season.
Journeyman Distillery at the American Factory
Visit the iconic distillery's new location. Take a tour, eat at the Union Hall, or grab a beer at Sea of Monsters.
Memorial Opera House
Experience history at the Memorial Opera House, where President Roosevelt and the Marx Brothers performed on stage.
Diana of the Dunes Dare
Walk in the footsteps of Diana, a legendary dune advocate who lived in the wilderness, and walk away inspired.
Spring House Inn
Spring House Inn is one part hotel, one part country retreat, and all parts comfort. Find it just outside the Dunes.
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.
The Cypress Log Cabin Home
The upscale Cypress Log Cabin Home is a piece of history on the shores of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Valparaiso Inn Bed & Breakfast
With five suites just steps from downtown Valpo, you’ll find luxury in the heart of the Indiana Dunes area.
Where to Camp
There's no better way to truly immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Indiana Dunes than camping.
More hotels, inns, and B&Bs
Find a your perfect place to stay tucked somewhere between the dunes and our historic communities.
Indiana Dunes Coffee & Sweets Trail
Try some of the best roasters, grinders, and brewers in the Indiana Dunes area and win a special coffee mug.
The 3 Pizza Challenge
Try three pizzerias and win a limited edition sticker. Then complete The 3 Dune Challenge to spend those calories!
Wines and Brews
Not far from the Indiana Dunes, you'll find local communities with a vibrant craft beverage scene.
Outdoor Dining Experiences
Whether you want to relax on a cozy porch, eat brunch in the shade, or party on a rooftop, we’ve got just the spot.
Date night near the Dunes
Our stroll-able beaches and charming downtowns make for a date night unlike anywhere else in Indiana.
Birdie's Diner & Next Door at Birdie's
By day, Birdie’s Diner serves retro breakfast & lunch—by night, the swanky, speakeasy-style Next Door takes over.
Indiana Dunes Birding Festival
The Indiana Dunes Birding Festival celebrates this natural diversity and exceptional birding opportunities in the…
Valparaiso Popcorn Fest
Mark your calendars, and be sure to pop on over to Valparaiso for the annual Popcorn Festival in September.
Tour the American Factory at Journeyman Distillery
Visit the new distillery, brewery, and production floor to learn their process of grain-to-glass spirits.
Gigantic Indoor Garage Sale
Get a year's worth of garage sale shopping done in one day. The sale has over 32,000 square feet packed with…
Indiana Dunes Outdoor Adventure Festival
Over 100 events take place in ten days highlighting activities like hiking, paddling, birding, and photography.
Elvis FANtasy Fest
Elvis impersonators from all over the world compete to compete while raising money for the Special Olympics.
Dunes 101: Things You Didn't Know about the Indiana Dunes
- 5 minute read
Separate passes are needed for the Indiana Dunes National and State Parks. For more information, visit the Indiana Dunes Entrance Fees page. There's more to the Indiana Dunes than warm sand, blue water, and miles of hiking trails. For example, as of 2021, it's the fifth most biodiverse…