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.

Lake Michigan

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.

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Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville

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!

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Mascot Hall of Fame

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.

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WhoaZone

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).

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Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana

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.

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South Shore Brewery Trail

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.

More About the Brewery Trail

Things to Do

Indiana Dunes State Park

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…

WhoaZone at Whihala Beach

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…

Lodging

Beachwalk Vacation Rentals

Beachwalk Vacation Rentals

  • 202 Beachwalk Lane
  • (219) 879-7874

Professionally managed residential resort in greater Harbor Country, is perfect for family reunions, weekend…

Hampton Inn & Suites Crown Point

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…

SpringHill Suites Munster

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…

Food & Drink

The Lighthouse Restaurant

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

Gummi bears from Albanese Confectionery in Merrillville
50 Things Every Hoosier Must Do

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…

SEE WHAT PEOPLE ARE DOING AT THE SOUTH SHORE

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