Cool Stuff Around Valpo
From lakefront dunes to neon drive-ins, discover the best family memories waiting to be made.
Things to Do & Attractions
Explore the top scenic spots, historic farm parks, open-air markets, and family entertainment options across Northwest Indiana.
Family Fun & Entertainment
49er Drive-In Theatre
A beloved Northwest Indiana tradition since the 1950s! Catch a classic double feature under the summer sky — bring lawn chairs, snacks, and the whole family for a night you won’t forget.
Albanese Candy Factory
Home of the World’s Best Gummi Bears! Watch behind-the-scenes videos of the candy-making process, then browse and sample thousands of gummies, chocolates, and treats.
Central Park Plaza & Splashpad
The heart of downtown Valparaiso! This beautiful outdoor space hosts live concerts, movies, markets, and events throughout the summer. Great splashpad for the kids.
County Line Orchard
A family-owned farm packed with seasonal fun. In July, enjoy u-pick berries, interactive farm animals, tractor hayrides, and fresh signature baked goods from their bakery.
Deep River Waterpark
Beat the July heat at one of the region’s most popular water parks! Featuring expansive slides, a lazy river, wave pool, and splash interactive zones for all ages.
Shrine of Christ’s Passion
An interactive, 1/2-mile winding mountain pathway featuring 40 life-sized statues that vividly depict the Stations of the Cross. Complete with music and audio it provides a peaceful, reflective, and deeply moving experience for visitors of all backgrounds.
ValPLAYso (Glenrose Park North)
This incredible community-built playground spans 17,000 square feet and is fully ADA-accessible. A triumph of local spirit and a ton of fun for kids of all abilities!
Zao Island
Valparaiso’s ultimate family entertainment center. Two award-winning mini-golf courses, go-karts, laser tag, batting cages, a game room, and more — hours of fun for every age. Janet & Joe recommend the life size Hungry Hungry Hippos game
Nature & Outdoors
Coffee Creek Preserve
A beautiful 157-acre nature preserve in Chesterton with scenic trails, boardwalks, a waterfall, covered bridge, and abundant wildlife. Dog-friendly and completely free.
Foundation Meadows Park
Beautiful Butterfly Park and a 30-acre park with an inclusive 5,230-sq-ft playground, 10 slides, sensory features, a StoryWalk path, Tri Kappa Gazebo, nature trails, and a peaceful botanical arboretum.
Gabis Arboretum
300 acres of themed gardens, wildlife trails, climbable sculptures, and a spectacular outdoor model Railway Garden. Open Fri–Sun; highly educational escape.
Indiana Dunes Parks
One of America’s crown jewels right in your backyard! Hike 200-foot sand dunes, swim on beautiful Lake Michigan beaches, and explore over 50 miles of historic trails.
New Buffalo, Michigan
A scenic beach and harbor town located just across the state line, known for its sprawling public lakefront beach, transient marina, local boutique shops, and waterfront dining.
Ogden Botanical Garden
A beautiful, picturesque public garden spot in Valparaiso featuring vibrant floral displays, a grand gazebo, and paved walkways perfect for a peaceful stroll or photography.
Portage Lakefront
Part of the Indiana Dunes National Park system, this gem offers stunning Lake Michigan views, an active fishing pier, sandy public beach, and a scenic riverwalk path.
Rogers Lakewood Park
A sprawling regional park featuring professional disc golf, group picnic shelters, designated fishing ponds, walking trails, and open space for lawn games.
* WHERE VIRGIL TOOK US FISHING
Sunset Hill Farm County Park
A charming county park set on a restored historic farm. Enjoy trails, picnic areas, and a peaceful rural setting ideal for a relaxing afternoon outdoors.
Breweries & Wineries
Anderson’s Winery
A historic and beloved Indiana winery with a relaxed atmosphere, live music on weekends, and a generous tasting menu. The cheese and charcuterie boards are a must!
Journeyman Distillery
A locally rooted outpost of the award-winning Journeyman brand, crafting small-batch whiskeys, gins, and vodkas from organic grains. A sophisticated stop for spirits lovers.
Markets & Shopping
Bookworm Bookstore
A charming and cozy local bookstore offering a carefully curated selection of reads, literary gifts, and a welcoming community space for book lovers.
Chesterton European Market
Every Saturday May–October (8am–2pm), this open-air market fills downtown Chesterton with artisan cheeses, fresh produce, crafts, art, baked goods, food trucks, and live music.
Bowling & Recreation
Creekside Bike Trail
Excellent multi-use trail paths optimized for off-road cycling. Features scenic wooded routes perfect for dirt riders and mountain bikers of varying skill levels.
Inman’s Recreation Center
Family-owned since 1941, featuring 32 lanes of bowling, active laser tag, billiards, retro arcade games, roller skating, mini golf, go-karts, bumper boats, and more.
Arts & Culture
Memorial Opera House
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this beautifully restored 1893 landmark hosts standard community theater performances, concerts, and elegant cultural events.
Porter County Museum
Award-winning and completely free to enter, PoCo Muse tells the fascinating story of Porter County’s history and unique culture through engaging, immersive exhibits. Open Tues–Sun.
Valparaiso University Campus
Stroll through one of Indiana’s most beautiful campuses, home to the stunning Chapel of the Resurrection — the largest collegiate chapel in the United States.
Entertainment & Gaming
Blue Chip Casino
A premier casino resort destination featuring non-stop slot and table gaming action, fine dining, a relaxing spa, luxury hotel accommodations, and vibrant nightlife.