Chesterton IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Chesterton, Indiana.
1. Indiana Dunes State Park
NATURAL BEACH PARADISE
Indiana Dunes State Park offers visitors a stunning natural beach experience along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore hiking trails like Calumet Dunes Trail and Glenwood Dunes Trail that showcase the unique dune ecosystem. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts looking for swimming, hiking, picnicking, and discovering the natural beauty of Indiana's 'Third Coast'.
2. Chesterton's European Market
VIBRANT LOCAL MARKETPLACE
Chesterton's European Market is a popular local attraction offering a unique shopping experience with vendors selling fresh produce, artisanal foods, and handcrafted goods. The market creates a vibrant community gathering place with a distinctly European feel in the heart of Chesterton. Visitors can browse locally made art, sample regional specialties, and experience the town's thriving cultural scene.
3. Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve
PEACEFUL NATURE SANCTUARY
Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve provides a serene natural setting with walking trails through preserved wetlands and prairie ecosystems. The preserve offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can observe local wildlife, native plants, and enjoy the calming sounds of flowing water. Nature enthusiasts appreciate this hidden gem for its ecological significance and the opportunity to connect with Indiana's natural heritage.
4. Cowles Bog
HISTORIC WETLAND TRAILS
Cowles Bog is a significant ecological site featuring diverse habitats including wetlands, beach, and woodland areas accessible via scenic trails. Named after the pioneering ecologist Henry Chandler Cowles, this area is renowned for its biodiversity and historical importance in the study of ecological succession. Hikers can experience the changing landscape as they travel from marshland to dunes, making it a favorite for nature photographers and birdwatchers.
5. Running Vines Winery
LOCAL WINE TASTING
Running Vines Winery offers visitors a chance to sample locally produced wines in a charming tasting room setting. This boutique winery combines the owner's passion for running and fine wine, creating unique varieties named after running terms. Guests can enjoy wine flights, purchase bottles to take home, and participate in special events that showcase the growing wine culture of Northwest Indiana.
6. Tethan's Candy & Confections
SWEET TREAT DESTINATION
Tethan's Candy & Confections delights visitors with its selection of handcrafted chocolates, candies, and sweet treats. This charming shop offers a nostalgic experience with both classic confections and innovative flavors created on-site. Families particularly enjoy watching the candy-making process and selecting from the colorful array of sweet souvenirs to take home.
7. Chesterton Art Center
CREATIVE ARTS HUB
Chesterton Art Center serves as the cultural heart of the community, showcasing works by local and regional artists in rotating exhibitions. The center offers classes and workshops for all ages, allowing visitors to create their own pottery, paintings, and other artistic pieces. Art enthusiasts appreciate this venue for its contribution to Chesterton's thriving creative scene and opportunities for hands-on artistic experiences.
8. Thomas Centennial Park
DOWNTOWN COMMUNITY SPACE
Thomas Centennial Park provides a picturesque green space in the center of downtown Chesterton, perfect for relaxation and community gatherings. The park features a gazebo, benches, and landscaped grounds that host concerts and special events throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy this charming spot as a break between shopping and dining experiences in the surrounding downtown area.
9. Indiana Dunes National Park
DIVERSE NATURAL LANDSCAPES
Indiana Dunes National Park encompasses 15,000 acres of diverse ecosystems including beaches, dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests along Lake Michigan. Visitors can explore over 50 miles of trails, discover rare plants and wildlife, and enjoy spectacular lake views and sunsets. The park has been recognized as the #1 pet-friendly attraction in Indiana, making it perfect for families traveling with four-legged companions.
10. Dunes Photo Tours
GUIDED PHOTOGRAPHY EXPERIENCES
Dunes Photo Tours offers specialized guided photography excursions through the most picturesque locations in the Indiana Dunes region. Professional photographers lead participants to optimal shooting locations and provide technical advice for capturing the area's stunning natural beauty. These tours are ideal for photography enthusiasts of all skill levels looking to document the unique landscapes and light conditions of the dunes area.
11. Westchester Public Library - Township History Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Westchester Public Library - Township History Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of Chesterton and the surrounding area through artifacts, photographs, and documents. Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the development of the region from its early settlement through its industrial growth and emergence as a tourist destination. The museum provides valuable context for understanding the cultural heritage that shapes the Chesterton community today.
12. Three Moons Fiberworks
TEXTILE ARTS SHOP
Three Moons Fiberworks invites visitors to explore the world of fiber arts through its selection of quality yarns, textiles, and handcrafted items. The shop offers classes for various fiber techniques including knitting, weaving, and felting for crafters of all experience levels. Creative travelers appreciate this unique destination for its cozy atmosphere and opportunity to connect with local artisans and the traditional craft community.
13. Lakeland Park
FAMILY RECREATION AREA
Lakeland Park offers families a complete recreational experience with playgrounds, sports fields, picnic areas, and walking paths around a scenic lake. The park hosts community events throughout the year, including concerts and festivals that showcase local culture and talent. Visitors appreciate this well-maintained facility for its balance of active play areas and peaceful natural settings ideal for relaxation.
14. Brookdale County Park
OUTDOOR SPORTS COMPLEX
Brookdale County Park provides extensive recreational facilities including baseball diamonds, soccer fields, basketball courts, and walking trails. The park's well-maintained grounds make it a popular destination for both organized sports and casual outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy the park's open spaces for picnicking, exercising, or simply appreciating the natural surroundings away from the busier tourist areas.
15. Chestertonopoly
UNIQUE LOCAL SOUVENIR
Chestertonopoly offers visitors a chance to take home a unique board game memento featuring local businesses and attractions. This creative adaptation of a classic game showcases Chesterton's distinctive character and community pride. Travelers can purchase this special souvenir from local shops as a fun way to remember their visit and share the Chesterton experience with friends and family at home.