Dune Acres IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dune Acres, Indiana.
1. Indiana Dunes State Park
SCENIC BEACHES AND TRAILS
Indiana Dunes State Park features tranquil beaches along Lake Michigan's shoreline and diverse hiking trails through stunning natural landscapes. Visitors can enjoy the 'Three Dunes Challenge' and take in spectacular views from the park's rooftop observatory that offers glimpses of the Chicago skyline on clear days. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of opportunities for bird watching and peaceful nature walks throughout the park's 2,000+ acres.
2. Indiana Dunes National Park
NATURAL DIVERSITY AND HISTORY
Indiana Dunes National Park encompasses over 15,000 acres of diverse ecosystems including dunes, oak savannas, swamps, bogs, marshes, prairies, rivers, and forests. The park offers a unique juxtaposition of natural beauty alongside industrial views, creating a fascinating landscape for exploration. Visitors can experience a working farm, historical exhibits, and nearly 500 guided tours and activities offered throughout the year.
3. Mount Tom
HIGHEST DUNE IN INDIANA
Mount Tom stands as the highest dune in Indiana at an impressive 192 feet above Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking panoramic views. On clear days, visitors can see the Chicago skyline in the distance while enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The dune is part of a challenging trail system that attracts hikers looking to conquer the famous 'Three Dunes Challenge' in the area.
4. Ogden Dunes Beach
PEACEFUL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Ogden Dunes Beach offers visitors a serene escape along the shores of Lake Michigan with beautiful sandy stretches and swimming opportunities. The beach is less crowded than some of the more popular destinations in the area, providing a more relaxed atmosphere for sunbathing and water activities. Visitors can enjoy magnificent sunset views over the lake while taking leisurely walks along the shoreline.
5. Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk
MODERN WATERFRONT EXPERIENCE
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk features a modern pavilion with spectacular views of Lake Michigan and surrounding dune landscapes. The site offers a fishing pier, accessible walkways, and a riverwalk that guides visitors through diverse habitats near the Burns Waterway. Nature lovers can explore the dune succession trail that showcases the unique ecosystem development process characteristic of the Indiana Dunes region.
6. Lake Michigan
GREAT LAKE SHORELINE
Lake Michigan, the only Great Lake entirely within the United States, offers stunning views and recreational opportunities along its southern shore in Indiana. With a surface area of 22,404 square miles, the lake provides the perfect backdrop for relaxing walks, especially beautiful before sunset. Visitors can enjoy swimming, beachcombing, and water sports during the summer months while taking in the natural beauty of this massive freshwater lake.
7. Cowles Bog Trail
HISTORIC ECOLOGICAL SITE
Cowles Bog Trail takes hikers through a National Natural Landmark where pioneering ecologist Dr. Henry Chandler Cowles conducted his groundbreaking studies on ecological succession. The trail winds through diverse habitats including wetlands, ponds, marshes, swamps, and dunes, offering a comprehensive view of the region's ecological diversity. Hikers are rewarded with beautiful views of Lake Michigan from the ridge of dunes at the northern end of the trail.
8. Beverly Shores Museum
LOCAL HISTORY AND CULTURE
Beverly Shores Museum chronicles the fascinating history of this unique community along Lake Michigan, including its development during the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. The museum houses exhibits on local architecture, natural history, and the story of the famous Century of Progress homes relocated to the area. Visitors can learn about the community's transformation from a planned resort town to the charming lakeside village it is today.
9. Chellberg Farm
HISTORIC WORKING FARM
Chellberg Farm offers visitors a glimpse into the agricultural history of the Indiana Dunes region through its preserved 1800s Swedish farmstead. The working farm features traditional buildings, livestock, and demonstrations of farming techniques that shaped the local landscape. Seasonal events including maple sugar time in spring and autumn harvest celebrations bring the farm's history to life for visitors of all ages.
10. Bailly Homestead
FUR TRADING HISTORIC SITE
Bailly Homestead preserves the residence and trading post of Joseph Bailly, one of the earliest European settlers in the region who established a fur trading empire in the early 1800s. The National Historic Landmark features the main house, outbuildings, and interpretive displays explaining the importance of the site to regional development. Visitors can explore the grounds and learn about the interaction between European settlers and the Native American populations during this pivotal time in American history.
11. Fair Oaks Farms
INTERACTIVE AGRICULTURAL EXPERIENCE
Fair Oaks Farms offers an immersive, educational experience showcasing modern farming techniques through interactive exhibits focused on dairy cows, pigs, and crops. Visitors can take specialized 'adventure' tours, taste award-winning cheeses in the on-site café, or enjoy farm-to-table cuisine at the Farmhouse Restaurant. Seasonal attractions include apple picking in the fall and the enchanting Forest of Lights display during winter months.
12. Kankakee Sands Bison
PRAIRIE RESTORATION PROJECT
Kankakee Sands Bison viewing area allows visitors to observe American bison roaming free on Indiana prairie land for the first time in nearly 200 years. The Nature Conservancy's reintroduction of these magnificent animals serves an important ecological purpose in the ongoing prairie restoration project. Visitors can learn about the decades of hard work that went into restoring this unique ecosystem while watching the bison herd from a designated viewing area.
13. Albanese Candy Factory
SWEET TREATS AND TOURS
Albanese Candy Factory delights visitors with its world-famous gummy candies and chocolates made on-site in their impressive production facility. Guests can watch the candy-making process through viewing windows and learn about the company's commitment to quality ingredients and innovative flavors. The expansive retail store offers samples, factory seconds at discount prices, and every variety of sweet treat imaginable for visitors to take home.
14. Shrine of Christ's Passion
SPIRITUAL WALKING JOURNEY
The Shrine of Christ's Passion presents a half-mile prayer trail featuring 40 life-sized bronze sculptures depicting the last days of Jesus Christ. Visitors follow a winding pathway through beautifully landscaped grounds with narration available at each station to enhance the contemplative experience. The shrine welcomes people of all faiths to enjoy this peaceful setting that also includes a gift shop with religious items and mementos.
15. RenArtWlk
PUBLIC ART EXHIBITION
RenArtWlk showcases an impressive collection of public art installations throughout Burns Harbor, creating an outdoor gallery experience for visitors. The walkable exhibition features works from local and regional artists that reflect the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Northwest Indiana. Visitors can enjoy these creative expressions while learning about the area's unique blend of industrial history and natural landscapes through interpretive signage accompanying each artwork.