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Michigan City is Indiana's lighthouse town, a Lake Michigan harbor where a red-roofed pierhead light marks the mouth of Trail Creek and sand dunes rise along the shore. Its beaches, marina and summer crowds from Chicago, about an hour away, give it the feel of a classic lakeside resort.
Founded in the 1830s as a port at the end of the Michigan Road, the city grew with railroads and railcar factories; the Barker Mansion recalls the fortune of one railcar maker. The 1858 lighthouse is now a museum, and Washington Park combines a broad beach, a hillside zoo and views of the catwalk leading out to the pierhead light. Downtown's Uptown Arts District mixes galleries, murals and cafes, while bargain hunters head to the outlet center by the harbor.
Just west of town, Mount Baldy in Indiana Dunes National Park is a moving sand dune with views over the lake, and the International Friendship Gardens bloom along Trail Creek.
Built in 1858, this brick lighthouse and keeper's home on the harbor is now a museum run by the local historical society. Exhibits include a Fresnel lens, shipwreck stories, local history displays and memories of keeper Harriet Colfax, who tended the light for over four decades. Hours are seasonal, so check ahead.
Completed in 1905 for railcar manufacturer John H. Barker, this English manor style mansion has dozens of rooms with carved woodwork, Italian marble and original furnishings. Guided tours explain the family and the city's industrial past. Holiday season decorations make December a popular time for a visit.
This white lighthouse with a red roof stands at the end of the east breakwater, linked by an elevated steel catwalk, a rare surviving example on the Great Lakes. Walk the pier for views of the lake and the city skyline, but stay off in high waves and wind. Sunset is the favorite time for photographs.
Michigan City's main beach stretches along Lake Michigan beside the harbor, with lifeguards in summer, a boardwalk, concessions and views of the pierhead light. Parking fees apply for non-residents on busy days, so arrive early on summer weekends. Watch for rip current warnings before swimming.
Set on a wooded dune beside the beach, this compact city zoo shows big cats, primates, bears and farm animals among historic stone buildings and an observation tower. Kids enjoy the farm animal area, and the tower gives views over the lake. Plan about two hours and combine it with an afternoon on the sand.
Close to the lakefront, this contemporary arts center presents changing exhibitions by regional and national artists, along with classes, talks and family workshops. Admission is free or low cost, and the gift shop sells work by local makers. Check the calendar for opening receptions and evening events.
At the eastern end of Indiana Dunes National Park, this tall living dune shifts inland several feet a year, slowly burying the trees in its path. A beach trail leads to the shore, while the summit is reached only on ranger-led hikes for safety. Bring water and sun protection, as the sand gets very hot in summer.
Founded in the 1930s, these gardens spread along wooded Trail Creek with themed plantings, ponds, bridges and walking paths. Spring bulbs, summer roses and autumn color each bring a different mood, and concerts and events are held in season. Paths are uneven in places, so wear comfortable shoes.
This volunteer-run museum displays uniforms, weapons, medals, vehicles and personal stories from American conflicts, from the Civil War to recent wars, with many items donated by local veterans. Guides often share firsthand insights. It is a good rainy day stop; check the opening days before visiting.
Centered on Franklin Street, the downtown arts district has galleries, studios, murals, cafes and restaurants in historic storefronts. First Friday style events and summer festivals bring music to the streets. Walk north from here to the harbor and beach, or catch the South Shore Line train at the 11th Street station.
An open-air outlet center a few blocks from the lakefront with more than a hundred brand stores, from clothing and shoes to kitchenware. It draws shoppers from Chicago and Indianapolis, especially on holiday weekends. Combine a morning of shopping with an afternoon at the beach, and look for coupon books at the information center.
This large casino hotel near the marina offers slot machines, table games, several restaurants, a spa and live entertainment on weekends. Even non-gamblers come for the dining and shows. Guests must be 21 or older to enter the gaming floor, and the hotel tower offers views over the lake.
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