Gary Travel Guide

Planning a trip to Gary, Indiana? This in-depth travel guide covers everything you need to know about the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Gary

Gary is a city located in Lake County, Northwestern Indiana. Founded in 1906, the city has a rich industrial history and is named after Elbert H. Gary, a prominent lawyer and Chairperson of United States Steel Corporation. Over the years, Gary has experienced ups and downs, but it still has a lot to offer to visitors who come to explore its attractions.

List of Places to Visit in Gary

If you’re planning a trip to Gary, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to visit. From cultural landmarks to natural attractions, here are some of the top things to do in Gary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Gary Aquatorium: This historic red-brick building on the Lake Michigan shoreline is dedicated to Percy L. Julian, a chemist who graduated from DePauw University in Greencastle and became famous for his research work on soybeans. The Aquatorium features an exhibition on Julian’s life and a collection of local artifacts and memorabilia.

  2. Paul H. Douglas Center: Located at the Indiana Dunes National Park, the Douglas Center offers educational exhibits and programs on the plants, wildlife, and geology of the region.

  3. Lake County Courthouse: This iconic building in the heart of Gary is known for its stunning architecture and was built in the Beaux-Arts style in 1908.

  4. Indiana Welcome Center: The Indiana Welcome Center is a great starting point for visitors to learn more about the city and the state.

Natural Attractions of Gary: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Marquette Park: This lakefront park is known for its scenic views of Lake Michigan and its adjacent beach. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, hiking, or picnicking at this popular attraction.

  2. Gary Railcats: Baseball fans will love taking in a game at the beautiful U.S. Steel Yard, surrounded by Lake Michigan and a train yard.

  3. Miller Beach: Miller Beach boasts a charming downtown area, with shops and restaurants, and beach access on Lake Michigan, with miles of bike trails and hiking to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gary

Gary is a great place for hiking and biking enthusiasts. If you love nature and exercise, then here are some of the top routes to explore:

  1. Marquette Park Trail: This 1.1-mile loop trail is perfect for hikers and is considered to be an easy and family-friendly hike.

  2. Dunes-Kankakee Trail: This 5.5-mile trail is a beautiful adventure in the woods, with some elevation changes and a loop option.

  3. Gary Timber of the City Parks Trails: The Gary Timber loop is perfect for any hiker, offering beautiful scenic views.

Best Things to Do in Gary: Activities and Tours

Visitors to Gary will find plenty of activities and tours to enjoy. From wine tasting to kayaking to ghost hunts, here are some of the best things to do in Gary:

  1. Local Wineries Tour: The nearby Valparaiso area features a number of wineries that offer tastings and tours.

  2. Ghost Hunts: Take a guided ghost hunt through the many allegedly haunted historic sites and buildings in Gary.

  3. Kayaking: Wade through the calm waters at Deep River Waterpark while observing turtles, herons, and other wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gary

If you have a week to spend in Gary, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all the city has to offer. Here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Explore Marquette Park and its trails. Day 2: Visit the Douglas Center and hike through the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Day 3: Check out the Blue Chip Casino and other area attractions like Deep River Waterpark and the Valparaiso University Campus. Day 4: Explore downtown Gary and enjoy lunch at one of the city’s many restaurants. Day 5: Visit the Gary Aquatorium and take a guided ghost hunt through the historic buildings in Gary. Day 6: Take a scenic drive along the Lake Michigan shoreline to Chicago, or spend the day shopping at the high-end retail center of Southlake Mall. Day 7: Enjoy a day of kayaking along the Little Calumet River and take in the natural beauty of the region.

Food and Drink Scene of Gary

Gary might not be the food capital of North America, but it has some culinary delights to offer to visitors. Let’s take a look at some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Giordano’s Pizza: This Chicago-style pizza joint has a location in Gary and offers savory deep-dish pies.

  2. Chicago Street Pub: This pub serves up hearty burgers, sandwiches, and comfort food, along with a cozy atmosphere.

  3. House of Kobe: The Japanese Hibachi grill’s chef-special home-style dishes, fresh sushi rolls, and fun drinks will have you ready to come back for more.

Local Beverages

  1. Three Floyds Brewing Company: Known for its popular Alpha King and Zombie Dust beers, this brewery is located nearby in Munster and is a destination for beer lovers.

  2. Shady Creek Winery: Sip wines from Shady Creek Winery in Michigan City, which is within an hour’s drive of Gary.

  3. Lakefront Taproom: The Lakefront Taproom is located in Hammond and offers an extensive collection of local and craft beers.

Where to Stay in Gary: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The city of Gary offers several accommodations to visitors, whether they prefer the comfort and convenience of a hotel or the affordability of a hostel.

  1. Majestic Star Casino & Hotel: Offering spacious rooms, a comfortable environment, and reasonably priced restaurants, this casino hotel is a great choice for a stay in Gary.

  2. Comfort Suites: Located near the city’s downtown district, the Comfort Suites offers a comfortable stay and easy access to the area’s main attractions.

  3. Motel 6 Merrillville: This budget-friendly option is just a short drive from the city of Gary, and its comfortable rooms make it an ideal choice for travelers on a budget.

What to Buy in Gary: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gary has some unique shops and stores where you can purchase souvenirs or products made locally. Here are some of the best places to shop in Gary:

  1. Southlake Mall: This shopping center features over 100 stores and restaurants and offers everything from fashion to electronics.

  2. Market Square: This shopping area features independently-owned shops, boutiques, and specialty stores selling locally-made products and souvenirs.

  3. Gary Aquatorium: The Aquatorium’s gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs, including postcards, T-shirts, magnets, and locally-made art.

Local Culture and Customs of Gary

The culture of Gary is diverse and vibrant, with a strong focus on community and an appreciation for the city’s history and industrial heritage. Visitors should be aware that the city has faced some economic and social difficulties over the years but remains proud and resilient.

Best Time to Visit Gary

The best time to visit Gary is during the summer months, from May to September. The weather is warm and sunny, and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Winter can get chilly and harsh, limiting the fun you can have outside.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gary

Do:

  1. Take the time to explore Gary’s rich history and culture, including its unique architecture and landmarks.

  2. Go wine tasting at the nearby Valparaiso wineries.

Don’t:

  1. Flash cash or walk alone at night.

  2. Ignore warning signs at the beach, especially during the warm summer months.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gary

As with any urban area, visitors to Gary should take care to avoid certain areas if they feel unsafe or uncomfortable. It is always advisable to avoid walking alone at night or flashing cash in public places.

Health in Gary

Gary is a safe place to get around, and the chances of getting infected by any disease or catching any infections is relatively low.

Getting to Gary: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Gary is relatively easy, as there are several transportation options available to visitors:

Airports Near Gary

  1. Chicago Midway International Airport: This airport is located approximately 37 miles from Gary and offers flights to many domestic and international destinations.

  2. O’Hare International Airport: This airport is located approximately 57 miles from Gary but provides a wide range of flight options to visitors.

Bus Stations Near Gary

  1. Gary Chicago International Airport: This airport is located within the city and provides bus services to nearby locations.

  2. Coach USA: This bus terminal located in Valparaiso offers frequent daily service to Chicago.

Other Options

  1. Train: The South Shore Line and the Amtrak have stations in Gary and Valparaiso and offer frequent service to Chicago.

  2. Taxi and Ride-share: Services like Uber and Lyft are available for visitors who prefer to travel in comfort and flexibility.

How to Get Around in Gary

Gary Transit provides regular bus services throughout the city, with stops at all major attractions and landmarks. Visitors can also use ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft or rent a car to explore the city and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Gary: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors to Gary can easily access many other interesting places in the nearby area, including:

  1. Chicago: This world-class city is less than an hour’s drive from Gary and is home to some of the best museums, parks, shopping, and dining in the country.

  2. Indiana Dunes National Park: The park is located along Lake Michigan and offers opportunities for hiking, sunbathing, bird watching, and more.

  3. Valparaiso: This charming town in Porter County has a vibrant downtown district, a thriving arts scene, and some of the best wineries and restaurants in the state.

Conclusion

Gary might not be the most glamorous city in Indiana, but it has a unique charm and plenty of interesting attractions that visitors will enjoy. From cultural landmarks to natural beauty, hiking and biking trails to the food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone in Gary. Plan your trip to the city by using our in-depth travel guide and start exploring all that this wonderful place has to offer.

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