Lake County Travel Guide

Plan a memorable trip to Lake County, Indiana with our comprehensive travel guide featuring things to do, places to visit, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Lake County

Lake County is a perfect destination for those looking for a mix of urban and natural experiences. Located in Northwestern Indiana, Lake County boasts a rich history, diverse cultural attractions, and stunning natural beauty. The county is also home to several small towns and cities, including Gary, Hammond, and Crown Point, which offer unique experiences for visitors.

List of Places to Visit in Lake County

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Lake County has something for everyone. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Lake County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Indiana Welcome Center: This is a great place to start your trip as it provides all the information about the region and what to do here.
  • John Dillinger Museum: Explore the life of the notorious bank robber at the museum based in the lakefront community of Crown Point.
  • Gary RailCats Baseball: Gary is home to the Gary SouthShore RailCats of the American Association of Independent Professional Baseball. Catch a game at U.S. Steel Yard
  • South Shore Arts: A non-profit regional arts organization in Munster that offers exciting exhibits, galleries, and performances.

Natural Attractions of Lake County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Indiana Dunes National Park: A 15,000-acre national park located on the southern shore of Lake Michigan known for its sandy beaches and huge sand dunes.
  • Wolf Lake Memorial Park: Known for its range of outdoor activities like jogging, hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. There’s also the Hammond Bird Sanctuary located here.
  • Lake Michigan: Take a walk on the beach and enjoy the Midwestern sunset while on the shores of Lake Michigan. You’ll never get enough of it!
  • Festival of the Lakes: A five-day event held in July which features live music concerts and the largest firework shows.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lake County

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, you will love the variety of hiking and biking trails Lake County has to offer. Here are some of the best routes:

  • Shoreline Trail: Running along the southern end of Lake Michigan, this 13.5-mile trail offers a mix of scenic views and urban sights.
  • Oak Savannah Trail: This 9.4-mile trail with a crushed limestone surface is an excellent option for hiking, bicycling and nature viewing.
  • Calumet Trail: A 10-mile trail that starts at the east end of Lake View Drive in Miller Beach neighborhood of Gary, and ends in Michigan City.
  • Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve: This 3.3-mile trail is located in the Whiting Park, featuring over 14 distinct habitats that host an array of different wildlife species.

Best Things to Do in Lake County: Activities and Tours

Exploring Lake County’s unique history, taking part in outdoor adventure, or admiring the arts and culture scene? Here are some of the best things to do that you should not miss:

  • South Shore Brewery Tours: check out the top breweries in the area by taking a tour and sampling their best offerings.
  • Cedar Lake Historical Association tours: Get an opportunity to explore the history of the region by visiting the iconic Cedar Lake Historical Association Museum and learning about its history.
  • Blue Chip Casino: Satisfy your entertainment cravings by taking some time out at the largest casino boat in Indiana.
  • Deep River Waterpark: One of the best water parks in the country, featuring family rides, extreme waterslides for the adventure seekers, and a lazy river for a relaxing day.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lake County

A week is enough time to explore the best Lake County has to offer. Here’s a sample itinerary we recommend:

  • Day 1: Indiana Dunes National Park
  • Day 2: South Shore Arts and Indiana Welcome Center
  • Day 3: Hiking and Biking Trails
  • Day 4: Downtown Crown Point and John Dillinger Museum
  • Day 5: Wolf Lake Memorial Park and Hammond Bird Sanctuary
  • Day 6: Beaches on Lake Michigan and Festival of the Lakes
  • Day 7: Food and Drink tour

Food and Drink Scene of Lake County

No trip to Lake County is complete without trying some local dishes and beverages. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Pierogi: A Polish dumpling filled with mashed potatoes, cheese, and onions
  • Square Pizza: This region has its style of pizza – square, flavorful, and crispy crust.
  • Strack & Van Til: Place to shop for your snacks before starting your day.

Local Beverages

  • Three Floyds Brewery: Known for the craft beers it serves, such as Hoppy Wheat Ale, Topless Wytch, and Robert The Bruce.
  • Shoreline Brewery: Try its signature beer, the Beltaine Scottish Ale
  • Green Helmet Liquors: Stock up for a picnic in one of Lake County’s beautiful parks

Where to Stay in Lake County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

From cozy guesthouses to luxurious resorts, Lake County has several options for travelers. Here are a few options for comfortable accommodation:

  • Majestic Star Hotel: A well-reviewed hotel in Gary which is conveniently located close to everything you might need.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott: A mid-range option situated in Merrillville favored by locals or tourists.
  • Crest Motel: A budget-friendly option located near State Road 30 E.

What to Buy in Lake County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When you visit Lake County, make sure to bring some of these things home with you:

  • Pierogi’s: Grab a few frozen pierogis from ‘Of Pierogi’s and Men’ in Hammond, homemade with love
  • Blueberries from Berry Best Farm: Stock up and use the fresh farm produce to cook up a scrumptious meal back home.
  • Tastee Top Grill: Take a road trip to Schererville and get your hands on this famous roadside stop, Tastee Top! It sells burgers and fries that everyone raves about.

Local Culture and Customs of Lake County

Lake County is home to a diverse population, and visitors are always encouraged to respect cultural diversity. It is courteous to greet people and ask for permission before taking photos of locals. Due to the presence of regional parks and attractions, it is also important to respect the environment and keep it clean.

Best Time to Visit Lake County

The perfect time to visit Lake County will depend on your taste and preferences, though the best time to visit Lake County is during the Summer months. From June to August, the weather is warm and sunny, making it an excellent time for exploring the outdoors, soaking in the sun, enjoying festivals, and indulging in water sports.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lake County

Do:

  • Respect the environment
  • Be polite to the locals
  • Explore the diverse food scene
  • Follow the local customs.

Don’t:

  • Litter in public places
  • Abuse the environment in any way
  • Disrespect people and their cultures
  • Be disrespectful to the local laws and regulations.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lake County

Like any other touristic spot, it is essential to keep safety in mind while visiting Lake County. Always lock your car doors and secure your valuables to avoid theft. It’s better to be cautious when moving around unknown places, particularly at night or in the less-populated areas.

Health in Lake County

Lake County has excellent health facilities and hospitals for any medical emergencies. It is recommended that visitors get vaccinated against diseases that might be prevalent in the region, such as Lyme disease.

Getting to Lake County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lake County

The nearest international airports to Lake County are O’Hare International Airport in Chicago (30 miles away) and Midway International Airport, also in Chicago (38 miles).

Bus Stations Near Lake County

The Lake County Transportation offers bus services throughout the county. Additionally, major bus stations within the region include the Greyhound Bus station and the Coach USA Terminal, both located in Gary.

Other Options

You can also use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, Take a train via the South Shore Line, or rent a car from the airport or downtown.

How to Get Around in Lake County

Buses are a convenient option for those who want to explore Lake County. However, a rental car or bike would be ideal for visitors who would like to explore the region at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from Lake County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore other destinations in the area, here are some nearby excursions:

  • Chicago: A city that is famed for its architecture, food, arts, culture, and shopping.
  • Michigan City: A city located just on the Indiana border that blends urban settings with a small-town vibe.
  • Michigan Wine Tours: After you’ve explored Lake County, why not give this famous wine region a chance?

Conclusion

Lake County is a region that should be on everyone’s list of places to visit in the United States. From the diverse cultural attractions and history to stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone here. With this comprehensive guide in hand, exploring Lake County will be a breeze!



    Crown Point
    East Chicago
    Gary
    Munster