Best things to do in Indiana Dunes National Park

Updated April 26th, 2022
Boy sitting on a dune at Indiana Dunes National Park, Chicago sk
Image credit: jlauriat / 123rf

Indiana Dunes is a 15,000-acre national park located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The park is famous for its diverse landscape of sand dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. Visitors can enjoy activities such as hiking, camping, fishing, swimming, and bird watching. Other top tourist attractions in Indiana Dunes include the Indiana Dunes State Park, the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education, and the Dunes National Lakeshore.

1. Visit the Indiana Dunes National Park

Visitors who visit the Indiana Dunes National Park in Indiana Dunes will find an incredibly beautiful and diverse landscape. The park is home to sand dunes, lakes, forests, and rolling hills, and it is a great place to hike, bike, and explore.

2. Visit the Indiana Dunes State Park

Visitors to the Indiana Dunes State Park may experience a variety of emotions while visiting the park. Some may be awe-inspiring by the natural beauty of the sand dunes, while others might be mesmerized by the vastness of the wilderness. Whatever the experience, visitors are sure to leave feeling inspired and refreshed.

3. Take a hike through the dunes

A visitor's experience when they take a hike through the dunes in Indiana Dunes is one of peace and tranquility. The sand dunes are a natural wonder and provide an incredible view. The dunes are a great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty.

4. Go for a swim at one of the many beaches

A visitor's experience when they go for a swim at one of the many beaches in Indiana Dunes will be filled with relaxation and pleasure. The sand is soft and the water is crystal clear, making it easy to get in and enjoy the sun and the water. The beaches are close to town, making it easy to get there and leave.

5. Take a scenic drive along the dunes

When someone takes a scenic drive along the Indiana Dunes, they will likely be awestruck by the natural beauty of the dunes. The sand will be cold and powdery under their feet, and the sun will be shining brightly overhead. The views will be breathtaking, with the dunes reaching as high as 100 feet in some places. The drive will be both relaxing and exciting, and the visitor will be able to feel the sand under their feet and the wind in their hair.

6. Visit the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

When someone visits the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, they will first be greeted by the staff. They will be given a map of the center and told about the different exhibits and programs that are available. The visitor can also purchase tickets for the various exhibits, tours, and programs. The visitor can also read about the history of the Indiana Dunes, or learn about the ecology of the dunes. There are also many books and maps available for purchase.

7. Go birdwatching at the Indiana Dunes

A visitor's experience when they go birdwatching at the Indiana Dunes is that they will see a variety of birds including sandhill cranes, pelicans, and bald eagles.

8. Take a horseback ride through the dunes

When someone takes a horseback ride through the Indiana Dunes, they will experience the natural beauty of the dunes and the quiet sounds of the horses' hooves on the sand. The ride will provide a unique and scenic experience that is not possible any other way.

9. Play a round of golf at one of the many courses in the area

The visitor's experience when they play a round of golf at one of the many courses in the area in Indiana Dunes is enjoyable. The course is well-maintained and the surrounding area is beautiful.

10. Enjoy a meal or a drink at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area

If a visitor enjoys a meal or drink at one of the many restaurants and bars in the area in Indiana Dunes, they may expect a cozy and relaxing atmosphere. The restaurants and bars may offer a variety of menu items, including Americanized and international cuisine. The visitor may also find a variety of beverages to choose from, including beer, wine, and cocktails.