Porter IndianaATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Porter, Indiana.
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
AMERICA'S NEWEST NATIONAL PARK
Indiana Dunes National Park hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan, offering visitors a stunning natural landscape. The park features diverse ecosystems including beaches, dunes, wetlands, and forests that provide habitat for unique plant and animal species. Visitors can enjoy hiking, swimming, bird watching, and learning about the region's rich natural and cultural history.
2. Indiana Dunes State Park
PRISTINE BEACHES AND DUNES
Indiana Dunes State Park consists of 2,182 acres of primitive, beautiful landscape, including more than three miles of beach along Lake Michigan's southern shore. The park's massive sand dunes, which rise nearly 200 feet above Lake Michigan, were formed over thousands of years and provide a unique recreational environment. Visitors can hike the challenging dune trails, relax on the sandy beaches, or explore the diverse natural habitats within this magnificent Hoosier landscape.
3. Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm
HISTORIC PIONEER SETTLEMENT
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm preserve the rich cultural heritage of Porter's early European settlers. The Bailly Homestead, built in the 1820s, belonged to fur trader Joseph Bailly, while the Chellberg Farm represents a typical Swedish immigrant farmstead from the late 19th century. Visitors can tour the historic structures, learn about traditional farming methods, and participate in seasonal living history demonstrations that bring the past to life.
4. Indiana Dunes Visitor Center
GATEWAY TO THE DUNES
The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center serves as the primary information hub for exploring both the National Park and State Park. Inside, visitors will find interactive exhibits explaining the unique ecology and geological features that make the dunes a natural wonder. Rangers are available to provide trail maps, activity recommendations, and educational programs to help visitors make the most of their dunes experience.
5. The "Hour Glass" House Museum
ARCHITECTURAL HERITAGE PRESERVED
The "Hour Glass" House Museum offers visitors a glimpse into Porter's architectural heritage with its distinctive design. Located at 8 Lupine Lane, this historical building showcases period furnishings and artifacts that tell the story of early life in the region. Visitors can explore the unique hourglass-shaped structure while learning about local history through carefully curated exhibits.
6. Porter County Regional Airport
AVIATION AND HISTORY
Porter County Regional Airport, located at 4207 Murvihill Road, offers aviation enthusiasts a chance to see aircraft up close in a smaller airport setting. The facility occasionally hosts aviation events and open houses where visitors can learn about flight and regional transportation history. Beyond functional travel purposes, the airport provides an interesting glimpse into the region's connectivity and development.
7. Memorial Opera House
HISTORIC PERFORMANCE VENUE
Memorial Opera House has offered the finest quality theatre in northwest Indiana for decades, with productions often compared to Chicago-level quality. This historic venue, built in 1893 as a memorial to Civil War veterans, combines architectural splendor with cultural significance. Visitors can attend award-winning plays, musicals, and concerts in this beautifully preserved building that continues to be the cultural heart of Porter County.
8. Porter County Museum
LOCAL HERITAGE SHOWCASE
Established in 1916, the Porter County Museum engages visitors with exhibits that connect the county's rich past with its evolving present. The museum's collections include artifacts, photographs, and documents that tell the story of Porter County's development from prehistoric times to the present day. Through rotating and permanent exhibits, educational programs, and special events, the museum works to educate, enrich, and inspire the communities it serves.
9. Porter County Expo Center
EVENTS AND GATHERINGS
The newly renovated Porter County Expo Center has been a community gathering place for over 30 years. This versatile venue hosts a wide variety of events throughout the year, including the popular Porter County Fair, trade shows, concerts, and private functions. Visitors can check the center's calendar for upcoming public events that showcase local culture, agriculture, and entertainment.
10. Washington Park
LAKEFRONT RECREATION AREA
Washington Park offers visitors a beautiful lakefront setting with sandy beaches and recreational facilities on the shores of Lake Michigan. The park features a historic carousel, a zoo, picnic areas, and a marina that serves as a gateway to lakeside activities. Visitors can enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, or simply relaxing while taking in the panoramic views of the lake and Michigan City's iconic lighthouse.
11. Running Vines Winery
LOCAL WINE EXPERIENCE
Running Vines Winery welcomes visitors to sample locally produced wines in a charming setting at 101 Broadway in Chesterton. The winery combines the owner's passion for running and wine-making, creating unique varietals with clever names that reflect both interests. Guests can enjoy wine tastings, learn about the wine-making process, and purchase bottles to take home as souvenirs of their visit to the Indiana Dunes region.
12. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
DISCOUNT SHOPPING DESTINATION
Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets offers shoppers a chance to find bargains on designer and name-brand merchandise. The outdoor shopping center features over 100 stores in a pleasant setting with landscaped walkways and comfortable rest areas. Visitors can spend hours browsing fashion, home goods, and specialty items while enjoying significant savings off retail prices.
13. Porter County Fairgrounds
AGRICULTURAL AND CULTURAL EVENTS
The Porter County Fairgrounds hosts the annual county fair and numerous other events throughout the year. During the fair, visitors can enjoy agricultural exhibits, carnival rides, concerts, and traditional fair food in a family-friendly atmosphere. The grounds also serve as a venue for craft shows, festivals, and community gatherings that showcase local culture and traditions.
14. 200 East Park
COMMUNITY RECREATION SPACE
200 East Park, located at 2501 McCord Road, provides recreational facilities for Porter residents and visitors alike. The park features athletic fields, playground equipment, and picnic areas where families can enjoy outdoor activities. Visitors can participate in organized sports events or simply relax in this well-maintained community green space.
15. Harbor Country
CHARMING LAKE MICHIGAN REGION
Harbor Country encompasses eight charming communities along Lake Michigan's shore just north of the Indiana border, easily accessible from Porter. This region offers visitors beautiful beaches, wineries, orchards, antique shops, and art galleries in a relaxed, scenic setting. Travelers can enjoy farm-to-table dining, outdoor adventures, and unique shopping experiences throughout this picturesque area that complements a visit to the Indiana Dunes.