Located close to Chicago, Michigan City is a small lakeside town in northern Indiana. The city’s wonderful array of attractions has something to appeal to every kind of visitor. There are beautiful parks, zoos, amazing historical buildings, beaches, and more. Many visitors also head here to explore the stunning Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, which is close by. Being on the shores of Lake Michigan provides ample scope to enjoy watersports and recreation activities such as fishing, boating, or paddling. The city is also well known as a cultural hotspot, with the Uptown Arts District being a prime destination for galleries, exhibitions, and boutiques. In this article, we have a list of the best things to do in Michigan City, Indiana. Keep reading to find out more.
1. Travel back in time at the Old Lighthouse Museum
Explore a slice of Michigan City’s history at The Old Lighthouse Museum. Found in the harbor of Michigan City, Indiana, this lighthouse, which dates back to 1858, was decommissioned in 1940. Today, the attraction has become a great place to learn about the history of the lighthouse as well as the history of the city. The museum housed inside has a wide collection of objects, such as artifacts related to the early Native Americans settlements, the maritime history of the region, as well as ship models. The highlight, of course, is climbing up the lantern tower for spectacular views.
Old Lighthouse Museum
Address: 1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN
Website: Old Lighthouse Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 1pm - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD
2. Go on a kayak adventure with Harbor Country Adventures
Trail Creek is a small stream that lies around 1.4 mi (2.2 km) from Michigan City. A popular fishing destination, the waterway is unique as it is among the few in the state that can support fishes like salmon and trout. The creek is also very popular as a place for watersports such as kayaking and paddling.
Kayaking on Trail Creek
Address: Michigan City, IN
Website: Harbor Country Adventures
Price: 45 USD for 2 hours
3. Meet the animals in Washington Park Zoo
A must-visit attraction for families in the city is Washington Park Zoo. Spread across 15 acres (6 ha), the zoo hosts over 200 animals from 90 species from around the world. Visitors will get a chance to see a remarkable range of animals displayed in a natural setting, that include Bengal tigers, grizzly bears, and Bald Eagles. Some of its exciting features include a see-through tunnel that offers the wonderful experience of seeing animals like otters up close; a walk-through aviary and an educational Rotary Castle. The zoo includes other interesting places of interest such as an observation tower that offers outstanding views, and a safari train for kids.
Washington Park Zoo
Address: 115 Lake Shore Dr, Michigan City, IN
Website: Washington Park Zoo
Opening hours: Jun 15 - Labor Day: 10am - 4pm; Labor Day - Oct 31: 10am - 4pm; Nov 1 - Mar 31: Closed for winter
Price: 8 USD
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4. Sample wines at Shady Creek Winery
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
With its delightful winery experience, Shady Creek Winery is a fantastic destination if you are looking for a relaxing place to unwind. At the winery, you can explore different wine varieties from the region and some West Coast states like California, in an elegant and friendly setting. The winery offers several welcoming spots where you can sit back and enjoy the wines: a beautifully done up tasting room hosted by knowledgeable staff, covered porches, patios, a mezzanine overlook, and also an outdoor section by a pond. Shady Creek Winery also offers a full menu that includes classic wine pairing such as cheeses.
Shady Creek Winery
Address: 2030 Tryon Rd, Michigan City, IN
Website: Shady Creek Winery
Opening hours:Wed - Sat: 11am - 7pm; Sun: 11am - 5pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
5. Join a painting class at Lubeznik Center for the Arts
Located just off Lake Michigan waterfront, Lubeznik Center for the Arts is a bustling cultural hub. The center boasts an active and ever-changing schedule of art exhibitions, featuring regional and national artists, held at its four large galleries. Lubeznik Center’s galleries also often host musical or theatrical productions. Those looking to learn a creative skill will find the center offering a large variety of classes across different crafts, both online and in person.
Lubeznik Center for the Arts
Address: 101 W 2nd St, Michigan City, IN
Website: Lubeznik Center for the Arts
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 11am - 4pm; Mon & Wed - Fri: 10am - 5pm (closed on Tue)
6. Shop at Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Posted by Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets on Tuesday, July 13, 2021
If you are in the mood for shopping, then the place to head to is Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. This open-air mall is a top shopping destination with over 100 stores. Featuring a village-style design, the mall offers stores across a vast range of categories, including designer clothing, fashion, home decor, shoes, and specialty items. Brands available here include Coach, Kay Jewelers, Tommy Hilfiger, Kate Spade, PUMA, Michael Kors and Under Armour. Stop by at one of the many eating establishments here, like Starbucks, Pepperidge Farm and Mama C’s Pizzeria, when you want a break.
Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
Address: 601 Wabash St, Michigan City, IN
Website: Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
Opening hours: 11am - 7pm (daily)
7. Unwind at the Friendship Botanic Gardens
Set amidst the verdant valley of Trail Creek, Friendship Botanic Gardens offers over 100 acres (40 ha) of woodlands, cultivated gardens and vast open spaces. You can explore all of its beauty and catch the garden’s wildlife through the network of walking trails. The Trail Creek, which cuts through the garden splitting it into two parts - the Symphony side and the Celebration side - offers an amazing setting to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Other notable features of the garden include Lake Lucerne, a children’s playground, and a maze.
Friendship Botanic Gardens
Address: 2055 East, US-12, Michigan City, IN
Website: Friendship Botanic Gardens
Opening hours: May - Oct: Tue - Sun: 9 am - 5pm (Closed on Mon); Nov: Sat - Sun: 10am - 4pm
Price: 9 USD (one-day Pass)
8. Enjoy seafood at Bartlett's Fish Camp
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Seared Artic Char with Mustard Seed atop butter & pork jus braised lentils
Posted by Fish Camp on Thursday, September 9, 2021
Enjoy wonderful lake views and scrumptious seafood at Bartlett’s Fish Camp. This restaurant is Michigan City’s only waterfront dining establishment. Renowned for its range of seafood dishes, Fish Camp is said to have the largest seafood menu in the region, including a raw bar. The restaurant also has a full bar with beers and cocktails on offer. The outdoor patio offers the perfect spot to enjoy great food and views. Guests can enjoy live music on Thursdays and Sundays.
Bartlett's Fish Camp
Address: 12 On the Lake, Michigan City, IN
Website: Bartlett’s Fish Camp
Opening hours: Sun: 11:30am - 8pm; Wed & Thu: 3pm - 8:30pm; Fri: 11am - 9pm; Sat: 11:30am - 8pm (closed on Mon & Tue)
9. Cruise on Lake Michigan with Harbor Country Adventures
Explore the stunning beauty of Lake Michigan on a sunset cruise. Go aboard the ship for an evening of relaxing fun as you take in the views from its open upper deck. Lasting about two hours, the cruise starts off with an introduction to Michigan City and its maritime history, and then as it moves further, you will find out more about Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes. You can enjoy live entertainment on the top deck and there are a full bar and snacks available.
Lake Michigan Cruise
Address: Michigan City, IN
Website: Lake Michigan Cruise
Price: 35 USD
10. Go swimming at Washington Park Beach
Take a break from your busy life with a lazy day at Washington Park Beach. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, this pristine beach is over 2 mi(3.2 km) long. You can go swimming, surfing, boating, fishing or simply sunbathe and have a picnic. You can also go kayaking from here into Lake Michigan Water Trail. There is even a splash pad available.
Washington Park Beach
Address: City Hall & 100 E. Michigan, Michigan City, IN
Website: Washington Park Beach
Opening hours: Dawn - Dusk
Price: 8 USD (for parking)
A bustling city with character
Though relatively small, Michigan City has no dearth of interesting sights. In addition to this list of the best things to do in Michigan City, Indiana, you will find that the city is known for its many festivals that are held throughout the year. So, be sure to check out the events calendar to enjoy all that the city has to offer!
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