Dunkirk IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Dunkirk, Indiana.
1. Glass Museum
HERITAGE OF GLASS MAKING
The Glass Museum in Dunkirk connects visitors to the city's rich industrial past through an impressive collection of 8,000 unique glass pieces from 110 factories around the world. Visitors can marvel at 25 leaded glass windows, 25 hanging lamps, and hundreds of hand-blown and hand-pressed glass creations that showcase America's oldest industry. The museum stands as a testament to Dunkirk's glass-making heritage that began in 1896 when gas was discovered and dozens of glass houses subsequently emerged in the area.
2. Frank Merry Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
Frank Merry Park offers Dunkirk residents and visitors a welcoming outdoor recreational space in the heart of the community. The park provides various amenities for families to enjoy leisure activities and community gatherings throughout the year. Visitors can experience the small-town charm of Dunkirk while relaxing in this beloved local green space.
3. Webster Depot Park
HISTORIC RAILWAY SITE
Webster Depot Park preserves a piece of Dunkirk's railway history with its historic depot building and surrounding grounds. The park commemorates the importance of rail transport in the development and growth of this small Indiana community. Visitors can explore the site while learning about the vital role that trains played in connecting Dunkirk to the wider region during its industrial heyday.
4. Crown City Lanes
COMMUNITY BOWLING CENTER
Crown City Lanes offers a classic American bowling experience in the heart of Dunkirk, providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike. The bowling alley serves as a social gathering place where friends and families can enjoy friendly competition and casual dining options. Visitors will appreciate the nostalgic small-town bowling atmosphere that has been a staple of Dunkirk's recreational scene for generations.
5. The Firehouse
HISTORIC EVENT VENUE
The Firehouse, built in 1900 and beautifully restored by Kathy and Rock Faqua, now serves as an impressive event center in downtown Dunkirk. The venue features original architectural elements including repurposed front doors and a magnificent custom bar created by a master woodworker named Stan. The upstairs houses an amazing art collection, while the versatile space hosts everything from weddings and book signings to funerals and other community gatherings.
6. Downtown Dunkirk Mural
PUBLIC ART INSTALLATION
The Downtown Dunkirk Mural, created by talented artist Pamela Bliss (who also painted the Reggie Miller mural in Indianapolis), brings the city's history to life through vibrant public art. The impressive mural features three-dimensional elements including a train that appears to emerge from the wall and an A&W root beer glass that seems to pour outward toward viewers. This artistic landmark celebrates Dunkirk's heritage while adding cultural vibrancy to the downtown area.
7. Glass Capital Grill
LOCAL DINING FAVORITE
Glass Capital Grill serves as a popular dining establishment in Dunkirk, offering hearty meals in a setting that pays homage to the city's glass-making heritage. The restaurant provides visitors with a taste of local cuisine while surrounded by decor that celebrates Dunkirk's industrial past. Travelers can enjoy classic American fare while experiencing the welcoming atmosphere that reflects the community's small-town charm.
8. Hudson Family Park
MODERN RECREATIONAL FACILITY
Hudson Family Park in nearby Portland offers extensive recreational facilities including a splash pad, playground equipment, and walking trails just a short drive from Dunkirk. The park features a picturesque pond with a fountain, gazebo, and wooden bridge that creates a tranquil setting for outdoor enjoyment. Visitors can take advantage of the shelter houses, basketball courts, and amphitheater that make this Jay County gem perfect for family outings and community events.
9. Jay County Historical Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE COLLECTION
The Jay County Historical Museum preserves and showcases the rich history of the region surrounding Dunkirk through an extensive collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents. Housed in a historic building in nearby Portland, the museum offers visitors insight into the agricultural, industrial, and cultural development of Jay County communities. Exhibits highlight notable local figures, industries like glass manufacturing, and the everyday life of generations past in this corner of Indiana.
10. Arts Place
REGIONAL CULTURAL CENTER
Arts Place serves as Jay County's premier cultural center, offering visual and performing arts programming for visitors from Dunkirk and surrounding communities. The facility hosts rotating art exhibitions, concerts, theater productions, and educational workshops throughout the year. Visitors can experience the creative spirit of east-central Indiana through this vibrant hub that nurtures artistic expression and appreciation in the region.
11. Jay County Fairgrounds
AGRICULTURAL EXHIBITION CENTER
The Jay County Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair and numerous other events throughout the year, drawing visitors from Dunkirk and beyond. The expansive grounds feature exhibition halls, grandstands, and livestock facilities that showcase the region's agricultural heritage and contemporary farming practices. Visitors can experience traditional fair activities, motorsports events, and community gatherings that highlight rural Indiana culture.
12. Portland Water Park
FAMILY AQUATIC CENTER
Portland Water Park offers refreshing summer entertainment for families from Dunkirk and throughout Jay County with its array of aquatic attractions. The facility features water slides, a zero-depth entry pool, and interactive play structures designed for visitors of all ages. Swimmers can enjoy the relaxing atmosphere while taking advantage of concessions, shaded areas, and well-maintained facilities that make this a popular warm-weather destination.
13. Salamonie River State Forest
NATURAL WOODLAND RETREAT
Salamonie River State Forest encompasses nearly 1,000 acres of woodland and wildlife habitat within driving distance of Dunkirk, offering a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts. The forest features hiking trails, hunting areas, and scenic vistas along the Salamonie River that showcase Indiana's natural beauty. Visitors can observe diverse plant and animal species while enjoying recreational activities in a tranquil setting far from urban distractions.
14. Bearcreek Farms Country Resort
RURAL TOURISM DESTINATION
Bearcreek Farms Country Resort offers a nostalgic rural experience near Dunkirk with its country-themed attractions and amenities. The resort features dining options serving homestyle cooking, shopping opportunities for country crafts, and seasonal events that celebrate agricultural traditions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the pastoral atmosphere while enjoying the warm hospitality that characterizes this beloved regional destination.
15. Minnetrista Cultural Center
INTERACTIVE MUSEUM COMPLEX
Minnetrista Cultural Center, located in nearby Muncie, presents an expansive campus with museums, gardens, and historic buildings that complement Dunkirk's glass heritage with broader regional context. The center's exhibits highlight the Ball family's significant contributions to Indiana's glass industry, featuring an impressive collection of glass artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can explore the beautiful grounds, participate in interactive programs, and gain deeper appreciation for the cultural forces that shaped communities like Dunkirk throughout east-central Indiana.