East Chicago IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near East Chicago, Indiana.
1. Jeorse Park Beach
LAKESIDE RELAXATION SPOT
Jeorse Park Beach offers visitors a quality beach experience with soft clean sand perfect for sunbathing or playing volleyball. Visitors can cool down in the clear Lake Michigan waters or let children enjoy the playground and splashpad facilities. The beach also features sheltered picnic tables, a breakwall with lake views, fishing opportunities, and hosts various events throughout summer months.
2. Marktown Historic District
UNIQUE PARKING TRADITION AREA
Marktown Historic District is known for its unusual parking revolution where residents park on sidewalks while pedestrians walk on the streets. This distinctive neighborhood offers visitors a glimpse into East Chicago's industrial heritage and architectural history. The district represents an important cultural landmark that showcases the unique community planning of the early 20th century.
3. Ameristar Casino East Chicago
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Ameristar Casino East Chicago offers visitors a chance to try their luck at various gaming tables and slot machines in a vibrant atmosphere. Beyond gambling, the casino features dining options and entertainment facilities for a complete night out experience. Situated near the lake, it serves as a central entertainment hub in East Chicago with convenient access to other nearby attractions.
4. East Chicago Marina
WATERFRONT RECREATION AREA
East Chicago Marina provides a scenic waterfront experience with spectacular views of Lake Michigan and facilities for boaters. During summer weekends, visitors can rent various watercraft from wave runners to kayaks or try thrilling water-powered flight experiences with jetpacks and flyboards. The marina also offers dining and bar options perfect for satisfying appetites worked up from exploring the harborwalk.
5. Harborwalk
SCENIC LAKEFRONT PATH
Harborwalk provides a lovely strolling path alongside East Chicago Marina with spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the harbor. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while watching boats come and go throughout the day. Located adjacent to dining options and water recreation rentals, it serves as a connecting pathway between various waterfront attractions.
6. Erie Lackawanna Trail
HISTORIC RAILWAY PATH
Erie Lackawanna Trail offers outdoor enthusiasts a converted railway path perfect for walking, running, or cycling through the East Chicago area. The trail provides a glimpse into the region's transportation history while connecting various communities and natural areas. Visitors can enjoy the changing scenery and accessible route suitable for various fitness levels and recreational activities.
7. Wolf Lake Boardwalk
NATURE VIEWING PLATFORM
Wolf Lake Boardwalk extends over wetland areas providing visitors with excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature photography. The elevated wooden pathway allows for exploration of sensitive ecosystem areas without disturbing the natural environment. Located near East Chicago, this tranquil spot offers a peaceful contrast to the more developed urban attractions in the area.
8. Calumet Beach
ALTERNATIVE LAKEFRONT DESTINATION
Calumet Beach presents visitors with another Lake Michigan shoreline option near East Chicago with sandy spaces for relaxation and water activities. The beach area features views of the Chicago skyline on clear days while providing a less crowded alternative to more popular beaches. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking in this lakefront setting.
9. Little Calumet River
WATERWAY FOR OUTDOOR RECREATION
Little Calumet River offers outdoor enthusiasts opportunities for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing in a natural setting near East Chicago. The river corridor provides habitat for various wildlife species, making it an excellent spot for nature observation and photography. Recreational access points along the river allow visitors to enjoy this waterway that has played an important role in the region's development and ecology.
10. McCormick Place
MASSIVE CONVENTION CENTER
McCormick Place stands as the largest convention center in both Chicago and the entire United States, an impressive architectural and engineering achievement founded over half a century ago. The vast complex hosts numerous major events, exhibitions, and conferences throughout the year, attracting visitors from around the world. Located within driving distance of East Chicago, this massive venue offers an opportunity to experience the incredible scale of Chicago's premier event space.
11. Navy Pier
ICONIC LAKEFRONT ATTRACTION
Navy Pier attracts more than 8.6 million visitors annually with its diverse array of rides, restaurants, shops, parks, and boat tours spread across a 50-acre pier extending into Lake Michigan. Open year-round, the pier becomes especially lively during summer months with open-air souvenir stalls and weekly firework displays lighting up the sky. This iconic Chicago attraction is accessible from East Chicago and provides entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
12. Millennium Park
URBAN CULTURAL OASIS
Millennium Park spans 25 acres in Chicago's central Loop district, serving as a gathering place for both locals and tourists year-round. Visitors can enjoy concerts, outdoor activities, and numerous sculptures including the famous Cloud Gate (The Bean) that has become a symbol of the city. The park's convenient location makes it an excellent day trip destination for those staying in the East Chicago area seeking cultural experiences.
13. Grant Park
CHICAGO'S FRONT YARD
Grant Park spreads across 319 acres between Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan, offering a diverse range of family-friendly attractions and activities in downtown Chicago. Visitors can stroll along wide tree-lined promenades that dissect the park while exploring museums, public art, statues, and well-groomed lawns. This expansive green space hosts major city events including music festivals and serves as a scenic respite from urban surroundings for day-trippers from East Chicago.
14. Soldier Field
HISTORIC NFL STADIUM
Soldier Field has stood as one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks since its construction in 1924 and holds the distinction of being the oldest NFL stadium in the country. Home to the Chicago Bears football team, the venue combines historic architectural elements with modern renovations that accommodate contemporary sporting events and concerts. Located within driving distance from East Chicago, this iconic stadium offers visitors a chance to experience a piece of American sports history.
15. Harrah's East Chicago Casino
GAMING AND ENTERTAINMENT VENUE
Harrah's East Chicago Casino provides visitors with gaming excitement through a variety of table games and slot machines in a lively atmosphere. Beyond gambling options, the casino features dining establishments and entertainment venues for a complete entertainment experience. Its location in East Chicago makes it a convenient destination for both locals and tourists looking for nightlife and entertainment options.