Welcome to Valparaiso

- The Excel Center is now enrolling adult students for their Gary campus! The Excel Center is a FREE Indiana charter high school designed to help adult students earn their Indiana Core 40 diploma and either a workplace certification through WorkOne and/or a college dual credit. We are different than online, self-study GED programs as we offer face-to-face instruction by certified teachers and a flexible schedule. The Excel Center also offers free on-site childcare (children 7 years and under), free transportation passes (for those who qualify), and free tutoring. All of this at no cost to the student! Our next 4 week class starts Monday, February 25! Ready to apply? click for details Questions? Contact us at lpederson@excelcenterhs.org or (219) 980-6381.

The Excel Center - Gary

219.980.6381 lpederson@excelcenterhs.org

- Vote for PLAY on this holiday! Throw on your powdered wig and write a letter to the president, there’s plenty to do with the red, white, and blue! Pin a star on your jacket for providing your child play… a child’s best way to learn. Join us for Presidential Play at Bellaboo’s February 18.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Come experience the latest cars, trucks and SUVs, test tracks, test-drives, interactive technology and family fun at the 2019 Chicago Auto Show. click for details | #CAS19

McCormick Place

- Babies and toddlers, birth - 23 months of age, accompanied by their caregivers, will enjoy this program filled with rhymes, books, music, and movement designed to help early literacy skills at the Merrillville library. You must register to attend this program.

Merrillville Public Library Youth Services

Youth Services 2197693541ext360 juvenile@lcplin.org

- Need to get out of the house during these winter days but want to do something different? Join in a worldwide bird count right from the bird viewing room at Gibson Woods Friday February 15 through Monday February 18 from 11 AM-4 PM. Stop by any of these days and simply tally the numbers of the kinds of birds you see. We have tools for you to use on site. Help learn more about the birds of our neighborhood. Free and for all ages!

Gibson Woods Nature Preserve

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Come join the fun. Monday Nights Bingo Doors open at 5pm, Early Bird 6pm, Regular Games 7pm. Cash Prizes, Pull Tabs, Door Prize, Progressive Pots. Set up for regular games is $20.00. Patrician Banquets 410 E us Hwy 30 Schererville, IN. Enjoy the Patricians great food, an adult beverage all while supporting a really great cause(food and beverages at an additional cost). Call Jodi at 219-865-9600 for reservations or more information.

Patrician Banquets

Jodi Kobak 12198659600 admin@safetyvillage.us

- Lets Go Sledding!

BEECHER, IL:

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve
Dutton Road, north of Goodenow Road., Beecher
Times: 8 a.m.-Sunset
For current sledding conditions call: 708.946.2216.
Inner tubes for sledding are available for rental at Plum Creek Nature Center for use on the sled hill at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve when conditions allow after December 1. Renters must be 18 years old and bring a valid driver's license or state ID. Tubes may be limited to one tube per license/ID. Tubes are rented until 3 p.m. and must be returned to the Nature Center by 4 p.m.
Activity Fee: $2/tube
click for details
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CHESTERTON:

Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N. 25 E., Chesterton
219.926.1952
Adventure seekers can enjoy a thrilling 100-ft ride down Devil's Slide, the only location where sledding is permitted in the park. Hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing also are available on the 16 miles of trails along the lakeshore.
click for details
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CROWN POINT:

Lake County Fairgrounds
889 S Court St., Crown Point
219.663.3617
A longtime favorite among sledders, the hill at Fancher Lake offers fun for all ages.

Lemon Lake County Park
6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Lemon Lake will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty. Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Call Lemon Lake at 219-663-7627 or the Lemon Lake Ski Rental building at 219-663-2418.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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DYER:

Northgate Park
Calumet Ave. at Harrison Place, Dyer
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GRIFFITH:

Oak Ridge Prairie County Park
301 S. Colfax Street, Griffith
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Oak Ridge Prairie will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty.
Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Oak Ridge Prairie at 219-884-7238.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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HAMMOND:

Dowling Park
175th & Parrish Avenue, Hammond
click for details

Forsythe Park
119th Street and Calumet Avenue, Hammond
219.659.7678
Time: Dawn to dusk daily
Outdoor recreation isn’t only for the summer! Each winter, hundreds enjoy activities in and around the Hammond Port Authority properties.
click for details

Lost Marsh Golf Course
1001 129th St., Hammond
219.932.4653
click for details
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LAPORTE:

Red Mill County Park
0185 South Holmesville Road, La Porte
219.325.8315
click for details

Kesling Park
18th Street, La Porte
219.326.9600
click for details
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LEROY:

Stoney Run County Park
142nd and Union St., Leroy
219.996.6500
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
Looking for a great way to exercise in a beautiful setting? Then come out to your Lake County Parks and cross country ski. Each park that offers this activity has several miles of trails through wooded areas as well as open fields. The trails are designed for a beginner as well as the experienced skier, so don't worry if you have never tried cross country skiing before.
Cross country ski rentals open at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run on Fri, Sat, Sun and school holidays 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Weather and snow conditions permitting. All equipment must be returned by 4:30 p.m. Note: Closing times may vary due to darkness. The equestrian trail is clossed at Stoney Run from December through March. Ski trails are groomed at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run when there is at least a four inch snow base.
click for details
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LOWELL:

Liberty Park
W Main St & N Liberty St., Lowell
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MERRILLVILLE:

Hidden Lake Park
6355 Broadway, Merrillville
219.980.8790
click for details
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MUNSTER:

Centennial Park
901 N. Centennial Dr., Munster
219.836.6930
click for details
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PORTAGE:

Countryside Park
5250 U.S. 6, Portage
219.762.1675

Woodland Park
2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage
219.762.1675
click for details
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PORTER:

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
1100 N. Mineral Springs Road, Porter
219.926.7561
Time: Sunrise to sunset daily
Hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the wintertime. Visitors must bring their own snowshoes and cross-country skis, as there are no rentals available. A 4-6 inch snow base is recommended. Trails are not groomed.
click for details
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ST. JOHN:

Heron Lake Park
11960 Osage Dr., St. John
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VALPARAISO:

Forest Park Golf Course near Discovery Cottage
1158 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso
219.462.5144
Once the golf course closes for the season, families can bring their skis and sleds for some winter fun.

Rogers-Lakewood Park
3210 North Campbell Street, Valparaiso
219.462.5144
This popular sledding hill attracts families each year to this 122-acre park. Families must bring their own sleds.
click for details

Sunset Hill Farm
775 Meridian Road, Valparaiso
219.465.3586
Time: Dawn to dusk

 

- Northwest Indiana is the home to numerous walking and biking trails. Check out the details on each trail for uses and location.

LAKE COUNTY TRAILS

Erie Lackawanna Trail
Cities: Hammond, Highland, Griffith, Merrillville, Schererville, Lake County
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Total Length of all segments: 16 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, biking, wheelchairs, biking, rollerblading.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Tranquil fields, wetlands, neighborhoods.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Hammond Bus Station - Sibley St and Hohman Ave, Hammond - IN
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: West 93rd Avenue - Crown Point
click for details

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Marquette Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Dunes
Mileage: 2.10
Surface: crushed limestone
Uses allowed: walking, Cross Country Skiing,mountain biking, skating,wheelchairs.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Wetlands, dunes.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Grand Blvd at Ash Ave.
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: County Line Road going to beach
click for details

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Veteran's Memorial Bikeway
Cities: Crown point & Hebron
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9; 7 equestrian
Uses allowed: Horses on the parallel Equestrian Trail, rollerblading, walking, running, biking, hiking
Which uses NOT allowed: Motorized vehicles
Attractive Features: 6 miles of the Trail parallels with an Equestrian Trail, first trail in the US named after war veterans, eventually will connect to the American Discovery Trail running from Delaware to California, farmland and a quite beautiful, serene surrounding
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : State Road 231, Crown Point
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: N. Main Street, Hebron
click for details

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Wolf Lake - George Lake Trails
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: greenway
Mileage: 3.14 miles
Total Length of all segments: 6.5 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses Allowed: hiking, jogging, rollerblading, walking, biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Northern Entrance to the Forsythe Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: 119th Street
click for details

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Whihala Beach Bike Trail - Whiting Park
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: dune
Uses Allowed: Walking, jogging, biking
Mileage: 3886 ft.
North Endpoint – General: Lake Avenue - Whiting
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Park Road - Whiting
click for details

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Little Calumet River Levee Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of trail: River bank trail
Uses allowed: hiking, jogging, biking, rollerblading, skating, XC skiing, walking, wheelchairs
Mileage: 6
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Calumet Avenue Munster IN
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Martin Luther King Dr. - Gary In
click for details

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Pennsy North West Greenway
City: Schererville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, jogging, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
North Endpoint – General: E. Wilhelm Street - Redar Park Shererville IN
South Endpoint – General: Rohrman Park and Mockingbird Dr. - Shererville IN
click for details

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Munster Trail System
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: Jogging, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Green Link Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 3/4 of a mile
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Walking, biking, jogging, rollerblading, skating
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bridge Street
East endpoint – General: W. 2nd Ave and Roosevelt St.
click for details

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Monon Trail
Cities: Hammond/Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 3.64
Uses Allowed: Walking, rollerblading, skating, biking
Surface: Asphalt
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Pennsy Greenway
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Total Length of all segments: 4.10 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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St. John Trail
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 2.5 miles
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Homestead Acres Park, Heartland Park
click for details

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Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve Trail
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: Nature Preserve
Mileage: 0.8
Surface: Natural
Uses allowed: walking
Agency, Group Owned: Meadowbrook
Telephone: (219) 242 8558
click for details

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C&O Trail ( Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad )
City: Merrillville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 1.48
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Biking, Walking, Jogging
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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LAPORTE COUNTY


Lincoln Memorial Trails
City: Westville
INFO
Type of Trail: Various
Total Length of all segments: 3 miles
Uses allowed: Hiking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
E-mail: rbalsa@lincolntrail.info
click for details

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LaPorte County Bicycle Routes
City: Countywide
INFO
Type of Trail: 20 bike loops that connect our parks, communities, and other attractions
Total Length of all segments: 420 miles
Surface: asphalt
click for details

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PORTER COUNTY


Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
City: Valparaiso
Taltree has nearly just over six miles of trails. All provide plenty of room to comfortably walk or run by yourself, with a canine companion or your family and friends. The trail terrain is mostly grass and mulch.
Bluebird Trail 1.63 miles
Cardinal Trail .62 miles
Goldfinch Trail .63 miles
Heron Trail .28 miles
Owl Trail .51 miles
Woodcock Trail .96 miles
Pheasant Trail 1.11 miles
click for details

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Calumet Trail
City: Michigan City/Dune Acres
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9.2
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 9.2 miles
Surface: crushed limestone
Length of unpaved: 9.2 miles
Uses allowed: biking, walking, running
Which uses NOT allowed: horses,snowmobiles
Attractive Features: Wetland flowers, wildlife, fall foliage; close to parks.
Impediments: First three miles can be under water after rain; some damage to covered bridges.
West Endpoint – General: Near Porter
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Mineral Springs Road
East endpoint – General: Michigan City
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: U. S. 12 at the power plant road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Iron Horse Heritage Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 2.9
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 5.1 miles
Surface: dirt,some asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: wheelchair, rollerblading, biking
Attractive Features: Park, Mountain biking adjacent.
Impediments: rustic, muddy.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Portage Avenue
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: N. State Rd 149
Telephone: 219-762-1675
click for details

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Prairie Duneland Trail
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 10.40
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: all uses
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Connects to various trails, natural areas with abundant flora and fauna.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : SR51-Hobart
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: S. 15th Street
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Hobart Road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Outback Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: BMX
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 4 miles
Surface: dirt
Length of unpaved: 4 miles
Uses allowed: all levels of skill mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: restricted to mountain biking only.
Attractive Features: Circular dirt.
Impediments: dirt, steep slopes.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : circular,off Imagination Park,Portage
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: circular
click for details

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Hobart Trails
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: City
Total Length of all segments: 1.2 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Hiking, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Telephone: (219) 942-1940
click for details

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Ly-co-ki-we Trail System
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 6.4
Total Length of all segments: 9.4
Surface: Sandy
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking, horseback riding, cross country skiing
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: Trails are not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint – General: Calumet Interpretive Center
South Endpoint – General: US Hwy 20 & Brummitt Rd.
West Endpoint – General: Hwy 12 & 50 East
East endpoint – General: Dunewood Campground
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Little Calumet River Trail
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: River
Mileage: 1.2
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Howe Rd & oak Hill Rd.
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Hwy. 20 & Howe Rd.
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : at Bailly Cemetery near Hwy 12
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bailly Homestead
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Howe Rd
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Chellberg Farm
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Valparaiso walking & biking trail system
City: Valparaiso
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenways
Surface: Asphalt
click for details

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Brickyard Trail / Dunes Kankakee Bike Trail
City: Chesterton / Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Total Length of all segments: 4.1 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Indiana Dunes State Park, Little Calumet River, Connects Prairie Duneland with Calumet trail
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Indiana Dunes State Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Prairie Duneland Trailhead – Chesterton
click for details

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Cowles Bog Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Park
Uses Allowed: Foot traffic only
Surface: Natural
click for details

 

- Northwest Indiana hosts a variety of museums and other establishments offering tours to the public. Stop by or schedule a tour at one of the following locations!

ALBANESE CANDY FACTORY (guided group tours and self-guided tours)
5441 E Lincoln Hwy, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 947-3070
Every year, people from all over the country come to learn about our process of making the “World’s Best Gummies” and chocolates. What makes us unique is that we are the only candy company that offers a public tour for gummi manufacturing in the USA. You’ll get to view our Gummi Factory through 8 separate windows and see two videos explaining the creation of our gummies and one video featuring our Gold Label Chocolates. Albanese tours are a great way for people of all ages to add a little fun and knowledge to their day.
Our tours are designed for people of all ages and the tour is wheelchair accessible. We offer two types of tours – guided group tours or self-guided tours, geared toward the individual visitor. Both types of tours are FREE. From November – December and March-April, no tours will be given. Santa and the Easter Bunny visit us every year during that time.
click for details


BROKEN WAGON BISON (guided group tours and “walk-in-tours” with no minimum group size)
563 W 450 N, Hobart, IN 46342
(219) 759-3523
Come visit Broken Wagon Bison and have your own personal encounter with North America's largest native land mammal. Summer tours give you the opportunity to be "surrounded" by bison (in the safety of our Bison Tour Wagon) and watch the new-born calves nurse and run around. You'll get a true sense of the size, strength, and power of these remarkable animals as you watch the one-ton herd bull lumber by, and if the herd should break into a run, they can hit speeds of 35 to 50 mph and literally make the ground shake.
Private and open tours of Broken Wagon Bison Ranch are offered from June 1st through September 30th. All tours are $10 per person and include a stick of genuine bison jerky.
click for details


BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD COUNTY PARK (self-guided and guided group tours)
Farm & Barnyard open daily 7am - dusk
Buildings open seasonally
3606 Belshaw Road
Lowell, IN 46356
The historic traditions, culture and heritage of farming life during the 19th and early 20th centuries are re-created on this living history farm, where visitors learn about our local history or reminisce about their own childhood memories.
click for details


CEDAR LAKE HISTORICAL ASSOCIATION MUSEUM
7408 Constitution Ave, Cedar Lake, IN 46303
(219) 390-9423
The museum is housed in the 100-year old historic Lassen's hotel and features interesting exhibits from Cedar Lake's resort era and much more. It is open Thursday through Sunday afternoons from May-September with many special events throughout the summer. Admission is free. Special tours are available anytime from May-October with advance reservations.
click for details


CHALLENGER LEARNING CENTER (individual and group tours)
*Please call ahead for events open to the general public
Hours: 8am-4pm
2300 173rd St, Hammond, IN 46323
(219) 989-3250
The Challenger Learning Center of Northwest Indiana is Chicagoland's premiere Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education facility for field trips and more. From our famous simulated space missions to hands-on workshops, labs, summer camps and planetarium experiences, we offer unique learning opportunities for children of all ages as well as STEM resources and curricula for their teachers. The Challenger Center of Northwest Indiana has been called the “hidden gem” of NWI—find out why!
click for details


COMMUNITY VETERANS MEMORIAL (guided and self-guided tours)
Open daily from dawn - dusk
9710 Calumet Avenue,
Munster, Indiana
219-836-3392
Guided tours are a great way to experience the Memorial. Tours are free of charge and available April 1st - mid-November, weather permitting. We are honored to have four Veterans from the Munster VFW Post 2697 who have graciously volunteered their time to conduct the tours. Among them, they have actively served in WWII, Korea and Vietnam. They started leading the tours in May 2015 and have since hosted groups from high schools, elementary schools, Cub and Boy Scout troops, and Veteran service organizations. With guests ranging from 5 to 95 years of age, the Veterans are happy to tailor material to fit the group, class or curriculum.
click for details


FAIR OAKS FARMS (guided and self-guided tours)
856 N 600 E
Fair Oaks, IN 47943
(219) 394-2025
Fair Oaks Farms is an escape to the country with acres of great outdoor fun, food and learning where you can explore family farms and reconnect with nature, animals and our planet.
click for details


GRIFFITH HISTORICAL PARK AND RAILROAD MUSEUM (guided and self-guided tours)
201 S Broad St, Griffith, IN 46319
Open on Sundays from 2-4pm, from Mid-June to the end of August.


HESSTON STEAM MUSEUM (self-guided tours)
1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN 46350
(219) 778-2783
Three different railroads for your family to ride and huge machines working hard to entertain and educate your family. Each of our three railroads have their own story. The full size railroad is of very rare narrow gauge equipment from many counties which was used to haul freight and/or passengers for commerce. Our largest locomotive is a Shay type that hauled logs out of the mountains in the West. The medium sized vintage Kiddieland railroad provided entertainment as part of small amusement parks from the 1920s through the 1970s. One more small railroad (one-eighth scale) takes your family through the woods and on an under/over bridge route that is fun for “kids” of all ages. These trains are built by craftsmen and some even operate on steam power just like the full sized locomotives. These trains are quite an interesting hobby!
click for details


JOHN H. BARKER MANSION (guided and self-guided tours)
631 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 873-1520
The historic Barker Mansion lives as a monument of industry, charity, and turn-of-the-century life in Michigan City, highlighting the legacy of the Barker family through interpretive tours and special programs for kids and adults. Browse our site to learn more about venue rentals, scout sleepovers, and more.
click for details


JT SHRIMP LLC (Individual tours, technical tours, school tours and group tours)
4836 W 1450 N, Wheatfield, IN 46392
(219) 987-3809
Ever wonder how shrimp is raised on a farm? Come out to JT Shrimp and get a tour of our facility! Individual tours, technical tours, school tours and group tours are available.
click for details


MERRILLVILLE COMMUNITY PLANETARIUM
Clifford Pierce Middle School
199 East 70th Avenue, Merrillville, IN
(219) 650-5486
The Merrillville Community Planetarium is part of the Merrillville Community School Corporation, a K-12 public school system in Northwest Indiana. The Planetarium is located in Clifford Pierce Middle School. We provide programming for Merrillville classes, outside groups, and the public. Bring the family to explore the moon during our summer public show. Public programs start at 7:30 p.m. The planetarium opens for seating 30 minutes before show time. No one is admitted after the program starts. Programs last from 60 to 90 minutes. Admission to public programs is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children. Seating is limited and should be reserved by calling (219) 650-5486 or using the form on our web site. Tickets are sold at the door. Groups may arrange for a private show by calling the planetarium at (219) 650-5486.
click for details


PORTER COUNTY MUSEUM (guided and self-guided tours)
153 Franklin St, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-3595
Scheduled tours are consistently offered at the PoCo Muse and are tailored to the age group and focus of the patrons participating. Standard tours last about 45 minutes to an hour, traveling through the entirety of the Porter County Museum, detailing the history of the building as well as the exhibits on display. Tours given during regular public hours (Wednesday-Saturday from 10a-5p) are free of charge, but must be scheduled in advance. For school groups, PoCo Muse staff can provide scavenger hunts or other activities, and will work with educators to develop a Museum visit that highlights classroom topics.
To schedule a tour of the PoCo Muse, e-mail info@pocomuse.org or call 219.465.3595.
click for details


SOUTH SHORE CIVIL WAR MEMORIAL TRAIL (self-guided tours)
(Various Locations throughout Northwest Indiana)
This trail is a collection of the last known resting places, monuments and architectural icons related to the brave men and women of Lake and Porter counties who sacrificed during this most pivotal era in history. Indiana contributed more than 200,000 Union troops to the Civil War effort between 1861 and 1865, and hundreds of those veterans are buried in the cemeteries of Northwest Indiana along the South Shore of Lake Michigan. The South Shore Civil War Memorial Trail serves as a guide for visitors who want to see and pay respect to the veterans' historic burial grounds and learn the stories of humanity behind the Calumet Region men in blue.
click for details


TASK FORCE TIPS INC. (guided tours)
3701 Innovation Way, Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 462-6161
Task Force Tips, is a three-shift "around the clock" 7 day/week production facility. However it is open daily to visitors from 8 AM-5 PM, Monday through Friday. Your visit is sure to be memorable, as you are escorted by a TFT employee. Our new wide area broadcast presentation system can be used to allow everyone to easily hear as well as see many of the ongoing processes. This assures your visit will be a personal and individualized tour of this state-of-the-art manufacturing facility.
Special Note: Anyone arriving after these normal hours are STILL WELCOME. However due to the limited number of people available, we ask for at least 24 hours notice so that we can assure that a tour guide specialist will be available.
click for details


THE OLD LIGHTHOUSE MUSEUM (Self-guided tours, audio tours and docent-led tours)
1 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 872-6133
Built in 1858, the old lighthouse had a lantern with a light that could be seen from 15 miles. It is the oldest remaining lighthouse in Indiana. The museum is open for public tours from April through October, every day except Monday, from 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM Central Time. Self-guided and audio tours as well as docent-led tours are available. The last tour each day begins at 3:30 PM Central Time. Call the museum at (219) 872-6133 to check on special hours, closings, or to book tours. Strollers are not allowed in the museum. Admission: Adults/$5 and Children 14 and under/$2.
click for details


THE SHRINE OF CHRIST’S PASSION (guided and self-guided tours)
10630 Wicker Ave, St John, IN 46373
(219) 365-6010
The dramatic 6,000 sq. ft. Shrine Gift Shoppe/Visitor Center and Café are open year round. The Prayer Trail is also open year round weather permitting. There is no charge to experience The Shrine of Christ’s Passion. The Shrine of Christ’s Passion is a 501 (c) (3) not for profit and continues to exist from sales at our one of a kind Shrine Gift Shoppe and from the generous donations of our guests. All donations are much needed, welcomed and appreciated.
click for details


THOMAS CONWAY OBSERVATORY
19100 Chase St, Lowell, IN 46356
773-639-5491
The Calumet Astronomical Society operates the Thomas Conway Observatory, located just southeast of Lowell, Indiana. Like many good ideas, this one started small and just keeps growing. Conway Observatory is open to the public during specific dates and times. Unless otherwise noted, all programs are free. Programs may be cancelled due to inclement weather, call the CAS Hotline 773-639-5491 before visiting.
click for details


1933 WORLD'S FAIR HOMES AT BEVERLY SHORES, INDIANA (self-guided tours and guided tours)
Join National Park Service rangers at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore for a tour of five historic homes from the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. These tours offered by reservation only one day each in October between 8:00 am and 6:00 pm (Last tour begins at 4:00 pm) Each tour lasts two hours and includes an inside look at the Cypress Log Cabin, the House of Tomorrow, Florida Tropical, Armco Ferro, and the Wieboldt-Rostone houses.
click for details

 

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- SESSION INFORMATION
Games primarily played on Saturdays ♦Some games may be on Sunday♦
Individual & Team Registration (see links below)
Greenfield's SlideMax Elite XP Turf (FIFA Preferred Product)- Like Playing Outdoors!
-Wear Outdoor Cleats (clean!) or Turf Shoes
-Full Concessions with Gelsosomo's Pizza, Little Market Tamales, & I-PourIt
-Climate Controlled • USSF Certified Refs!
-Coaches/Mgrs manage teams online •Automatic game reminders
-NO DOOR FEE! NO REF FEE! NO LINE-UP FEE!
-Age/Birthyear
-US Soccer: 5 Things to Know About Birth Year Registration-click for details

AGE GROUP INFO
U5/U6 CO-ED $99/Player (+ Sparta member/Registration card*)
-3v3 no goalies
-42 min running clock
-Parent Coached
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Medals for each player on last Game
-In-House Teams Only

U07/U08 $749/Team $99/Individual (+ Sparta Member/Registration card*)
-5v5 ( 4 field players + goalie )
-42 min running clock
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Champions receive choice of Short or Long Sleeve Dri-Fit Champion Shirts
-Individual (In-House) & Team registration available

U10, U12, U14 and High School $899/Team $109/Individual (+ Sparta Member/Registration card*)
-7v7 (6 field players + goalie)
-42 min running clock
-Sparta League T-Shirt for each player
-Session Champions receive choice of Short or Long Sleeve Dri-Fit Champion Shirts
-Individual (In-House) and Team registration available
-Field size 67 x 33 yards (202' x 100')

* $20 Individual/$40 Family Annual (2017/2018) Sparta Member/Registration card required each player before playing. Birth Cert or US Youth Soccer Player card & Photo required.

Sparta Dome

Sparta Dome 219.224.3663 info@spartadome.com

Horseshoe Casino Hammond

Horseshoe Hammond 866711SHOE7463

- Come experience both the historic and modern-day journey of Soldier Field, dedicated to the men and women of the armed services and home of the Chicago Bears. Soldier Field is also host to world class concerts, college football, international soccer & rugby along with many other timeless events.

We invite you for a behind the scenes tour that includes the South Courtyard, Doughboy Statue, Field, Visitor’s Locker Room, Skyline Suite, and Colonnades. Start the tour with a historical video that takes you back to the years of Soldier Field’s Golden Age.

To purchase tickets, click for details

Soldier Field

Soldier Field 312.235.7000

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

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CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

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MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- President's Day observes the birthdays of George Washington (Feb 22nd) and Abraham Lincoln (Feb 12). With the adoption of the Monday Holiday Law (which moved the observance of George Washington's birthday from Feb 22 to the third Monday in February), some of the specific significance of the event was lost and added impetus was given to the popular description of that holiday as President's Day as a day to honor all former presidents of the US, though the federal holiday is still Washington's Birthday. Annually, the third Monday in February.

 

- The Excel Center is now enrolling adult students for their Gary campus! The Excel Center is a FREE Indiana charter high school designed to help adult students earn their Indiana Core 40 diploma and either a workplace certification through WorkOne and/or a college dual credit. We are different than online, self-study GED programs as we offer face-to-face instruction by certified teachers and a flexible schedule. The Excel Center also offers free on-site childcare (children 7 years and under), free transportation passes (for those who qualify), and free tutoring. All of this at no cost to the student! Our next 4 week class starts Monday, February 25! Ready to apply? click for details Questions? Contact us at lpederson@excelcenterhs.org or (219) 980-6381.

The Excel Center - Gary

219.980.6381 lpederson@excelcenterhs.org

- Storytime for children 2 & 3 years of age, with a caregiver, featuring stories, fingerplays, music and a craft, that teach early literacy skills. "Letter Q" is the theme at the Merrillville library. You must register to attend this program.

Merrillville Public Library

Youth Services 2197693541ext360 juvenile@lcplin.org

- Brookfield Zoo offers free admission to all guests on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays through February 28, 2019. Free Days are presented by Metro by T-Mobile.

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo 708.688.8000

Serviscape

Serviscape 219.872.9412

- PFLAG Crown Point, a nonprofit organization, is a newly formed chapter of PFLAG National, and provides support for family, friends, allies, and members of the LGBTQ community. We do this through support, education, and advocacy. Monthly support group meetings are open to the public, adults (and teens accompanied by an adult) are welcome. Please join us!

tbd (Crown Point, IN)

Elisabeth Menning 219.216.1356 info@pflagcp-nwi.org

- Beat those winter weather blues and join us for a hike at Oak Ridge Prairie Tuesday February 19 from 6:30-7:30 PM under the Full Snow Moon. Program recommended for ages 5 and up. Dress for weather.

Oak Ridge Prairie & Oak Savannah Trail

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- Discuss how the Chakra archetypes are working in your life. Open the Chakra with all 5 senses while we meditate and journal about our discoveries. Develop affirmations to heal the Chakra energy centers.

Tuesday, February 5th, 12, 19, and 26, 2019, 6:30 to 8:30pm
108 Washington AVE Chesterton, IN
Cost is $100
Contact Bonnie Thanos for registration and questions.

Bonnie Thanos bonnie.thanos@gmail.com

- There are numerous bowling alleys and indoor skating facilities in Northwest Indiana. Visit the individual websites for more information.

CITY LANES BOWLING CENTER
1901 S Woodland Ave
Michigan City, IN
(219) 872-9930
Whether rolling that ball for play or practice, you will be sure to love the new lanes. Our food is great as well! Bring the family, have lunch, dinner, or just a
snack while having fun and keeping the body in motion - play pool or games in the arcade - the lounge is a great place to meet friends after work for an adult beverage while taking advantage of one of our daily specials.
click for details


COUNTRY LANES INC
1900 Lucas Pkwy
Lowell, IN
(219) 696-1584
Our establishment deals in all different services related to bowling and family friendly get-togethers. Our services include: Banquet Hall, Bowling Balls, Bowling Equipment, Catering, Country Pub Bar, Grip n Rip Pro Shop, Martha’s Kitchen, and Wedding Receptions.
click for details


CRESSMOOR LANES
620 N Wisconsin St.
Hobart, Indiana 46342
(219) 942-6169
Open bowl, men’s leagues, women’s leagues, mixed leagues and lounge.
click for details


HOBART LANES
99 S Hobart Rd
Hobart, IN
(219) 942-0906
A family house with sixteen synthetic lanes. Whether you are looking for bowling fun or a challenging sport, we are the place for you and your friends! We offer men's, mixed and specialty leagues as well as birthday parties, fundraisers, and special events. Every Friday and Saturday, you can join us for Cosmic Bowling with lights, music and prizes. Also, be sure to have a cool one in Ten Pin Lounge or a hot tasty treat in Striker's Cafe.
click for details


INMAN'S BOWLING & FUN CENTER
3201 Evans Avenue
Valparaiso, IN 46383
219-462-1300
32 Lanes of Bowling, Video Game Arcade with Ticket Redemption, Roller Skating Rink, Go-Karts, 18 Hole Miniature Golf, Paddle Boat Soakers, 8 Billiard Pool Tables, Air Hockey, Bean Bags, Kids Bounce Houses, Empty Pockets Saloon, Panhandlers Pizza. We also have Meeting/Party/Banquet Rooms for your next Event!
click for details


MIDWEST TRAINING & ICE CENTER
10600 White Oak Ave.
Dyer, IN 46311
(219) 558-8811
Midwest Training & Ice Center is the region's largest state-of-the-art training facility for Ice Hockey/Figure Skating and Gymnastics. MTIC provides the highest quality instruction to athletes of all ages and abilities. Sport specific training is available in gymnastics, ice hockey, figure skating, and cheerleading. For the recreational athlete, Midwest Training & Ice Center offers public skate sessions, drop-in hockey and open gym.
click for details


OLYMPIA LANES
4150 Calumet Avenue
Hammond, Indiana 46320
(219) 933-6677
Open bowling, arcade, leagues, birthday parties and special events.
click for details


PLAZA LANES
8101 Kennedy Avenue
Highland, Indiana 46322
(219) 923-3800
Our friendly, family owned 60 lane state-of-the-art facility is dedicated to the service, sport and entertainment of every aspect of BOWLING . . . League Play, Recreational Bowling, Parties, Fundraisers, Cosmic Bowling, & Group Outings just to mention a few.
click for details


RAY'S LANES
3201 Central Ave
Lake Station, Indiana
(219) 962-1297
Ray's Lanes has several lanes of fun that's great for friends and family. We have group packages, or you can just stop by for a fun night out.
click for details


SET 'EM UP LANES & LOUNGE
135 N Broad Street, Griffith, IN
219.924.3181
Set 'Em Up Lanes & Lounge is located downtown Griffith and has many things to offer. As an eight lane bowling alley, this is the perfect place to hold fundraisers, private parties, or kids birthday parties. We offer a full restaurant menu (dine in or carry out) and a well-stocked bar.
In addition to live entertainment, we offer open mic night and karaoke. We also have a pool table, pinball machines and 13 TVs throughout the bar and bowling alley. Interested in leagues? Be sure to inquire about pool and bowling leagues.
click for details


SK8 World
3600 Scottsdale St.
Portage, IN
(219) 759-1999
Sk8 World is now open! Formally known to Porter County Indiana as R-Way, Sk8 World has been completely updated and remodeled to offer the latest amenities. Fresh floor, fun atmosphere, with amazing laser lighting and only the best DJs playing the hottest music. Sk8 World is proud to bring a fun family atmosphere back to the region. We will have open skating, overnights, and offer private parties to accommodate any special event. Our updated concession stand will offer a wide variety of snacks and food for all. Give us a call today for our latest grand opening information, specials and promotions!
click for details


STARDUST BOWL
1330 Sheffield Ave
Dyer, IN
(219) 322-3666
Open bowl, league play, special events and an arcade. Striker’s Arcade and Redemption room has over 30 games to test your skill and agility. Collect your redemption tickets so you can redeem them for some cool prizes.
click for details


STARDUST BOWL II
3925 E Lincoln Hwy
Merrillville, IN
(219) 942-0432
Open bowl, league play and special events.
click for details


SUPER BOWL INC
218 S East St
Crown Point, IN
(219) 661-9015
We are a sixteen lane bowling center certified by the ABC and WIBC, located one block east of Crown Point's historic courthouse and town square. In addition to our variety of bowling leagues, The Super Bowl, Inc. features a video arcade, cosmic bowling, party packages and endless good times in the Final Frame Lounge. We also have free wireless internet. While enjoying all of this, one can also enjoy some great food from our grill.
click for details

 

- Looking for horses? There are many stables and farms in Northwest Indiana offering horseback riding lessons, trail rides, birthday parties and more!


STATELINE STABLES
10411 N 200E, LaPorte
(219) 778-9020
Stateline Stables is a 30 acre horse farm. Our facility has a 50 stall barn with a large indoor and two big outdoor arenas with excellent footing. All disciplines welcome! Family environment. We offer riding lessons, boarding, camps, horse shows, trail rides and horse leasing.
click for details


FOREST VIEW FARMS
11750 W 117th Ave, Cedar Lake
(219) 365-1350
Forest View Farms offer horseback riding lessons for riders of all ages and skill levels. Forest View Farms also offers pony rides for small children. Pony rides can be offered as beginner pony lessons for children 5–7 years old, or can take place for a child's birthday party or other special event.
click for details


FOUR SEASONS STABLES INC
4613 E 109th Ave, Crown Point
(219) 663-5968
Four Seasons offers weekly riding lessons, home pony deliveries, pony parties and more!
click for details


GREEN ACRES RANCH
9330 Sheffield Ave, Dyer
(219) 776-8787
economyhomesinc@sbcglobal.net
Call to make your appointment for Horseback riding lessons, Hay Rides, Horse Driving Lessons, Trail Rides, Bon Fire, Camps, Afterschool Programs, etc.
click for details


SAYLOR'S END OF THE TRAIL RIDING STABLE
9562 E 750 N, Walkerton
574-586-2677
We have been in business for 25 years we offer hourly guided trail rides, pony parties, petting zoo, horse drawn carriage Rides, horse drawn Wagon rides, horse drawn sleigh rides and weekend camp trips with the horses.
click for details


SHILO RANCH
6900 Ainsworth Rd
Hobart, IN
(775) 691-7723
Shilo Ranch offers a variety of activities for the whole family. Whether it is a birthday party, an afternoon trail ride with friends, or you need some 1 on 1 instruction, Shilo Ranch can help!
click for details


TRANSITIONS EQUESTRIAN CENTER
2525 E. 850 N, La Porte
219-778-9592
Transitions Equestrian Center is a luxurious, full-service equestrian, multi discipline facility which provides horse boarding, lessons and training for the beginner to advance in all riding disciplines: English/dressage; western; hunter/jumper; natural horsemanship, trick training, driving and reining.
click for details


TRUE NORTH TRAINING STABLES
927 North 150 West, Chesterton
(219) 728-7490
True North provides a safe environment where at risk youth and their families come for training in life skills and spiritual awareness in an equine setting. This includes, but is not limited to, children who struggle with depression, autism, foster/adopted, ADD, ADHD, self-harm, bullied, addiction, sexual abuse, incarcerated parents, eating disorders, truancy, and other similar society issues. We instruct our students through an eight-week program covering the following character qualities: relationship building; teamwork and leadership; respect; patience, perseverance and strength; focus; communication; critical thinking, decision making, discernment, and conflict resolution; and trust. Byproducts of these character qualities are values such as honesty, gaining control, confidence, empathy, compassion, love, gratitude, forgiveness, grace, humility, contentment and care. Individual lessons plans are uniquely designed based on the needs of each young person. Each lesson is planned to connect the horse and student. It is our desire to bring hope to those in need.
click for details

 

- Looking for a place to take your furry friend? Here is a listing of dog parks around the region. Although most parks are open from dusk until dawn, please check websites for any closures before heading to your favorite park!

**Pictured: Perry Ferrini Dog Park, Schererville


LAKE COUNTY

Crown Point Dog Park
Jerry Ross Park, Center Ross Road, Crown Point
219-661-2271
For annual fees, click for details


Dogwood Run at Lemon Lake
6398 W 133rd Ave, Crown Point
Call 219-769-PARK to purchase annual passes or stop by the Lake County Parks corporate office at 8411 E. Lincoln Highway just west of Deep River Waterpark on U.S. 30. Office hours are M-F 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m.
For annual fees, click for details


Dyer Dog Park at Central Park
900 Central Park Boulevard, Dyer
Located at Central Park, the three acre facility includes a small dog area and a large dog area. Complete with benches, dog waste stations and a shelter in each section, the dog park is open daily from dawn to dusk, 365 days a year. Each area of the park includes its own water fountain for the dogs (but is only on seasonally during the warmer times of the year).
For annual fees, click for details


Centennial Park Dog Park
1010 South Centennial Drive, Munster
This 3-acre dog park is located on the east side of the park, just south of the formal gardens. The dog park is a gated park for members only and is sectioned in two divisions, one for small dogs and one for large dogs. The park is equipped with dog drinking fountains and dog play equipment. Munster Parks and Recreation hosts their annual doggie paddle the last day of pool season and the Pooch a Palooza Dog Fair in August each year. Registration begins in May.
For annual fees, click for details


Freedom Bark Park
17105 Cline Ave, Lowell
Freedom Bark Park is located in the southeast corner of Freedom Park on 5 acres of beautifully designed landscape. Membership is required and annual passes are available with proof of current vaccinations. Freedom Bark Park is a beautiful and functional dog park that both dogs and their owners will enjoy for many generations to come. Have fun, play safe, and enjoy the park!
For annual fees, click for details


Perry Ferrini Dog Park
5061 W 91st Ave, Schererville
Activities include equipment for obedience and agility activities. There is also open play areas for free activity such as frisbee and ball catching.
Additional amenities include benches, drinking fountains (for dogs and people), waste disposal area, earth berms, native planting, shelters, and a sign at entry detailing the rules and regulations of the park.
For annual fees, click for details


Riverside Bark Dog Park
Calumet Ave. & River Drive North, Hammond
For fee information call 219-853-6300.
click for details


Wicker Memorial Park Dog Park
8554 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland
Our dog park – upgraded in 2016 – features pet fountains, benches for leash holders and plenty of space for your pooch to run around. One of the best features of the new dog park: a plan to preserve the verdant green turf.
For fee information, click for details


Wiggly Field Dog Park
10051 Hedwig Dr., St John
The dog park is located at 10051 Hedwig Drive, St John, Indiana 46373. Users are required to purchase a permit each calendar year at the St. John Town Hall, 10955 West 93rd Avenue.
For fee information, click for details


LAPORTE COUNTY

Bluhm County Park (3 acres)
3855 South 1100 West, Westville
The "Bark Parks" are a great place to bring your dogs to exercise. The areas are fully fenced in. The "Bark Parks" at Bluhm and Creek Ridge feature many events for the dog to enjoy like; Tire Jump, Dog Walk, Window Jump, Rover Jump Over, Doggie Crawl, King of the Hill, and Pause Table.
For fee information, click for details


Creek Ridge County Park (3.25 acres)
7943 W. 400 North, Michigan City
The "Bark Parks" are a great place to bring your dogs to exercise. The areas are fully fenced in. The "Bark Parks" at Bluhm and Creek Ridge feature many events for the dog to enjoy like; Tire Jump, Dog Walk, Window Jump, Rover Jump Over, Doggie Crawl, King of the Hill, and Pause Table.
For fee information, click for details


Luhr County Park ( 1 acre)
3178 S. 150 W., LaPorte
The "Bark Parks" are a great place to bring your dogs to exercise. The areas are fully fenced in. The "Bark Parks" at Bluhm and Creek Ridge feature many events for the dog to enjoy like; Tire Jump, Dog Walk, Window Jump, Rover Jump Over, Doggie Crawl, King of the Hill, and Pause Table.
For fee information, click for details


Small Animal Shelter (1 acre)
2855 W State Road 2, LaPorte
The "Bark Parks" are a great place to bring your dogs to exercise. The areas are fully fenced in. The "Bark Parks" at Bluhm and Creek Ridge feature many events for the dog to enjoy like; Tire Jump, Dog Walk, Window Jump, Rover Jump Over, Doggie Crawl, King of the Hill, and Pause Table.
For fee information, click for details


PORTER COUNTY

Royal Acres Country Club
3554 Sturdy Rd., Valparaiso
Royal Acres Country Club is a privately owned dog park located at 3554 South Sturdy Road in Valparaiso, Indiana. The park is a five acre grassy area enclosed by a six foot fence. It provides a safe place to exercise and socialize for dogs and their people.
For fee information, click for details


Lakeland Park Dog Park
1200 Lakeland Park Dr, Burns Harbor, IN 46304
A dog park, a 200 ft. by 100 ft. fenced-in area, is located on the south end of Lakeland Park, 1200 Lakeland Park Dr. in Burns Harbor. Lakeland Park is available to all residents as well as any visitors. Dogs must be on a leash when outside of the dog park.
For fee information, click for details


Woodland Dog Park
2100 Willowcreek Rd, Portage
Free
For more information, click for details

 

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Over 20 Parks & Gardens to Visit in Northwest Indiana

LAKE COUNTY:

BUCKLEY HOMESTEAD
3606 Belshaw Road, Lowell
Astronomy Center, Gift Shop, Hayrides, Picnic facilities, Tours, Trails, and more.
click for details


DEEP RIVER PARK AND HISTORIC WOODS GRIST MILL
9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart
Fishing, Gift Shop, Hayrides, Historical Buildings, Picnic facilities, Playground, Trails and more.
click for details


GIBSON WOODS NATURE PRESERVE
6201 Parrish Avenue, Hammond
Gift Shop, Group Tours, Hiking Trails, Environmental Awareness Center, Wildlife Viewing Area and more.
click for details


GRAND KANKAKEE MARSH
21690 Range Line Road, Hebron
Boat and Canoe Launch, Fishing, Hunting, Picnic Facilities, Trails and more.
click for details


HIDDEN LAKE PARK
6355 Broadway, Merrillville
(219) 980-8790
Concessions, Clubhouse, Disc Golf, Fishing, Fitness Trail, Paddle boats, Picnic Facilities, Playground, Softball, Swimming and more.
click for details


LAKE ETTA COUNTY PARK
4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary
Fishing, Open Play Fields, Picnic Facilities, Playground, Recreational Equipment Rental, Swimming, Trails and more.
click for details


LEMON LAKE COUNTY PARK
6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point, Indiana 46307
Basketball, Cross Country Ski Rental (Dec-March/snow-permitting), 72 Hole Championship Disc Golf, Fishing, Food Concessions in Summer, Hayrides, Off Lease Dog Facility, Open Play Field, Picnic Facilities, Playground, Recreational Equipment Rental, Sand Volleyball, Soccer Field, Softball Diamonds, Tennis Courts, Trails and more.
click for details


MARQUETTE PARK
1 North Grand Boulevard , Gary
(219) 938-7362
Along with its signature landmarks and public beach access, Marquette Park offers sand dunes, two lagoons, an oak savanna that dates back more than 2,000 years, and Patterson Island -- areas popular with hikers, birdwatchers, fishermen, and photographers.
click for details


OAK RIDGE PRAIRIE & OAK SAVANNAH TRAIL
301 South Colfax Street, Griffith
Cross Country Ski Rental (Dec-Feb), Fishing, hayrides, Open Play Fields, Picnic Facilities, Recreational Equipment Rental, Trail Head of Oak Savannah Trail and more.
click for details


THREE RIVERS PARK
2800 Colorado Street, Lake Station
Fishing, Jon Boat and Trolling Motor Rentals (seasonally), Open Play Fields, Paddleboat Rentals (seasonally), Picnic Facilities, Trail and more.
click for details


TOLLESTON DUNES TRAIL
Hillcrest Road & Dunes Highway, Portage
The Tolleston Dunes Trail follows 10,000 year-old sand dunes that were formed when Lake Michigan was 25 feet higher than in recent years. Tolleston is the second youngest of four distinct dune systems found within the national lakeshore. Together these dune ridges provide a glimpse into the changing shoreline of Lake Michigan. You can hike the trail year-round, cross-country ski when snow permits, or walk to the accessible overlook point that has interpretive wayside exhibits.
click for details


WOLF LAKE PARK
121st at Calumet Avenue, Hammond
(219) 853-6437
Wolf Lake Memorial Park is home to boating, kayaking, fishing, windsurfing and a full host of outdoor recreational activities.
Visitors enjoy the Pavilion at Wolf Lake and the Aquatic Center, which are linked to the Hammond Marina and area amenities by way of a pedestrian trail.
click for details


LAPORTE COUNTY:


FRIENDSHIP BOTANIC GARDENS
2055 E. U.S. 12, Michigan City
(219) 878-9885
Welcome to Friendship Botanic Gardens, where forested woodlands, sprawling open spaces, and cultivated gardens spill over 100 acres of land that have been a tourist destination since 1936. Gardens are tucked throughout the beautiful valley of Trail Creek.
click for details


HERON ROOKERY
N. County Road 600 E., Michigan City
The Heron Rookery Trail follows along a portion of the Little Calumet River that once featured over 100 Great Blue Heron nests. After 60 years of nesting here, the herons have moved on to new nesting grounds. These woods remain alive with dozens of birds including kingfishers, woodpeckers and a wide variety of migrating and nesting warblers.
click for details


LUHR COUNTY PARK
3178 S. County Road 150 W., LaPorte
(219) 324-5855
Located on 89 acres just south of LaPorte, Luhr Park features four ecosystems: upland forest, wetland, prairie and stocked pond (fishing pole rental available at the Nature Center), paved trails, picnic shelter rental, picnic tables, restrooms, fishing pier, playground, boardwalks, observation tower, and a No-Leash Dog Exercise Area. There is also a geocache located in the park.
click for details


MICHIGAN CITY CAMPGROUND
1601 N US Highway 421, Michigan City
(219) 872-7600
Michigan City Campground is a privately owned family campground. It is nestled on 40 acres just 5 miles from Lake Michigan and open year round. We also have many monthly sites available with winter water, as well as seasonal and overnight spots. Michigan City Campground is a great place for fun and family gatherings.
click for details


PINHOOK BOG
856-902 N Wozniak Rd., Michigan City
The Pinhook Trail System features two very different habitats. The Upland Trail highlights a rich beech and maple forest growing on top of a glacial moraine formed about 15,000 years ago. The Bog Trail leads to a bog in a depression in the moraine created when a large piece of ice broke off the melting glacier. The bog features an incredible habitat with unique plants.
click for details


WASHINGTON PARK ZOO
115 Lakeshore Dr., Michigan City, Indiana 46360
219-873-1510
The Washington Park Zoo founded in 1928, encompasses 15 acres on a hilly sand dune and located near the southern shore of beautiful Lake Michigan. The zoo exhibits more than 90 species originating throughout the world. The animals are exhibited in natural settings, surrounded by botanical plantings. Among the exhibits are Bengal tigers, Cotton top tamarins, American alligators, Grizzly bear, Grey kangaroos, Ring-tailed lemurs, River otters, Bald eagles, and more.
click for details


PORTER COUNTY:


BRINCKA CROSS GARDENS
427 Furness Road, Michigan City
The gardens boast 400 different types of hostas, 450 varieties of daffodils, 25 kinds of crab apple trees, 40 cultivars of ornamental grasses and 25 varieties of forsythias. And that’s just for starters. You have to come out to the gardens and experience them for yourself to truly understand how special this property truly is.
click for details


COUNTRYSIDE PARK
5250 US HWY 6, Portage
This 33-acre park site is located in the southwestern part of the city, along U.S. 6, just east of County Line Road. Countryside Park features a playground, sledding hill, picnic shelter, softball field, and a fishing pond. The park also has access to the Prairie Duneland Trail which passes along the southern boundary of the park. Countryside park is most recognized as the home of the Portage Historical Society and the Alton Goin Historical Museum. The museum along with the restored structures of the Traeger Homestead create a farm-like setting for visitors to enjoy.
click for details


DUNN'S BRIDGE
500 E (over Kankakee River), Kouts
The bridge offers the only designated public access to the Kankakee River in Porter County, allowing fishermen and paddlers to launch their boat here and enjoy the beautify natural surroundings. Those who enjoy fishing can cast fro walleye, bass, crappie, bluegill and Northern Pike, among others.
click for details


HAWTHORNE PARK
500 Ackerman Drive, Porter
(219) 921-1687
Community Building, Open Play Area, Playground, Shelter and more
click for details


IMAGINATION GLEN PARK
2275 McCool Rd, Portage
(219) 762-1675
At 276 acres, Imagination Glen is the largest park in the City of Portage . Located along the eastern boundary of the city, between State Road 149 and McCool Road, Imagination Glen is home to the Park Department’s softball and soccer complexes, two sand volleyball courts, a BMX race track, and the 10-mile Outback Mountain Bike Trail. The park also contains a large nature preserve, two playgrounds, picnic shelters, open play space, access to fishing on Salt Creek and is bordered to the south by the Iron Horse Trail.
click for details


INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL LAKESHORE
Visitor Center
1215 N State Rd 49, Porter
(219) 926-2255
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore hugs 15 miles of the southern shore of Lake Michigan and has much to offer. Whether you enjoy scouting for rare species of birds or flying kites on the sandy beach, the national lakeshore's 15,000 acres will continually enchant you. Hikers will enjoy 45 miles of trails over rugged dunes, mysterious wetlands, sunny prairies, meandering rivers, and peaceful forests.
click for details


SUNSET HILL FARM COUNTY PARK
775 Meridian Road, Valparaiso
Sunset Hill Farm County Park is a hub of activity in Porter County. We offer a variety of events and festivals, hiking trails, camps, field trips and fitness programs year round. Whether you are a hiker or a birdwatcher, a runner or a gardener, a parent with active kids or an enthusiast of antique farm equipment, we have something for you at Sunset Hill Farm County Park.
click for details


GABIS ARBORETUM at PURDUE NORTHWEST
71 N 500 W, Valparaiso
(219) 462-0025
Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest is a 330-acre, dog-friendly oak preserve of formal gardens, woodlands, wetlands and prairies with more than 6 miles of hiking trails. Gabis Arboretum is open year round and offers a wide variety of events and classes for all ages. Proceeds received by the nonprofit organization power its conservation, restoration and education initiatives.
click for details


WOODLAND PARK
2100 Willowcreek Rd., Portage
This 64 acre park is the center of the City of Portage Park System. Woodland Park houses the Parks Department administrative offices, a community center featuring banquet halls, a multi-purpose gymnasium and access to the Iron Horse Trail. This picturesque wooded park is also home to Woodland Park Preschool, the Veteran’s Memorial, a playground, a skate park, a gazebo, picnic shelters, a sledding hill, an Oak Savanna habitat, the community garden and a dog park.
click for details

 

- Looking for a sophisticated atmosphere and world class sushi? Look no further, located above Prime Steakhouse on the Crown Point Square, Umi Sushi boasts the best sushi in the region.

Umi Sushi & Lounge

Umi Sushi & Lounge 219.262.7652

- EVENTS:

FREE OPEN HOUSE- St. Mary Medical Center's South Valpo PT Clinic
January 12
click for details

Latest Advances in Hearing Aids Seminar- FREE
January 31
click for details

Annual Senior Flower Show
May 8
click for details

Spring Senior Day in Cedar Lake
May 8
click for details

Fall Senior Day in Cedar Lake
October 10
click for details

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SENIOR CENTERS:

CHESTERTON

Duneland YMCA
215 Roosevelt St. Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 926-4204
Here at the Duneland Y, active older adults have a chance to keep active and grow in spirit, mind and body. Physical and mental activity is essential in maintaining a higher quality of life and independence sor seniors. Regular exercise provides many practical benefits, including risk of diseases and conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, coronary artery disease and high blood pressure. Social interaction is also a key part of staying active. Here active older adults have the opportunity to socialize and stay fit
click for details

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CROWN POINT

SOUTHLAKE FAMILY YMCA
1450 S. Court Street, Crown Point, IN 46307
219-663-5810
Please call or visit the website to view current activities and schedules.
click for details

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GRIFFITH

Griffith Senior Center
349 North Indiana Griffith, IN 46319
(219) 924-1405
The Griffith Senior Center offers recreational programs as well as information and referrals to other senior services. Regular and scheduled activities include free coffee and donuts, pinochle tournaments, a quilters group, a retired girl scout leaders group, a grandmother's group, and a scrabble group.
click for details

GRIFFITH FAMILY YMCA
201 N. Griffith Blvd., Griffith, IN 46319
219-750-1082
Please call or visit the website to view current activities and schedules.
click for details

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HAMMOND

HAMMOND FAMILY YMCA
7322 Southeastern Ave., Hammond, IN 46324
219-845-1507
Please call or visit the website to view current activities and schedules.
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Pruzin Community Center
5750 Tyler Street, Merrillville, IN 46410
(219) 980-5911
Please call or visit the website to view current activities and schedules.
click for details

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MICHIGAN CITY

Michigan City Senior Center
Washington Park, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 873-1505
We are here to help Senior's "Have More Fun" with different activities being offered. Mon-Fri 8am-4pm.
click for details

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PORTAGE

Portage Township Senior Center
5800 Lexington Avenue, Portage, IN 46368
219-762-1522
The Bonner Senior Center serves several vital roles in the Portage Township Community. As a nutrition site, the senior center provides lunch five days a week to seniors 60 years and older.
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

St. John Township Community Center - Senior Center
1515 W. Lincoln Highway, Schererville, IN 46375
The Senior Center is open Monday thru Friday to all seniors 60 years and older. Play cards, Bingo, have lunch, exercise, and socialize with your neighbors. Blood pressure checks and other health screenings are also available. For a $1.00 donation each day, transportation will be provided to and from the community center for the seniors of St. John Township. With a suggested donation of $2.25 each day, seniors can enjoy a catered hot lunch.
click for details

Primetimers (Schererville Parks & Recreation)
We have teamed up with Home Instead Senior Care, Residences at Deer Creek, primetimers_bunnySymphony of Dyer, & Symphony of Crown Point to bring you exciting afternoons to keep you busy this summer. Save the date as we fill up your social calendar with good food, company, and lots of fun! Please pre-register at 219.865.5530 ext 6103. All events are held at the Schererville Community Center (500 E. Joliet Street).
To view the events brochure, click for details

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VALPARAISO

Banta Senior Center
605 Beech St., Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 462-1301
The Banta Senior Center is Valparaiso's Senior Activity Center. We are dedicated to "Enriching lives beyond 50!"
click for details

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WHITING

WHITING FAMILY YMCA
1938 Clark Street, Whiting, IN 46394
219-370-5091
Please call or visit the website to view current activities and schedules.
click for details

 

- March 9

St. Pat's Booze Cruises in Chicago - Celebrate on a Yacht!- CHICAGO
MARCH 9, 15, 16, 17
click for details

St. Patti's Party Kids Night Out- DYER
click for details

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March 16

HC3 St. Patricks Day Parade 2019- HESSVILLE
click for details

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March 17

St. Pat's Pre-Parade One Miler | Hometown Happenings- CROWN POINT
click for details

CP St. Patrick's Day Parade- CROWN POINT
click for details

Corned Beef & Cabbage Dinner at CP Fire Station- CROWN POINT
click for details

Lucky Leprechaun Dash 5k- HAMMOND
click for details

 

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

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CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

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CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

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CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

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MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

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PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

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Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Moon enters New Moon phase at 10:53 AM, EST.

 

- So called by Native American Tribes of New England and the Great Lakes because this time of year sees heavy snow falls. Also called Hunger Moon because of the meager hunting at this time of winter.

 

- The Excel Center is now enrolling adult students for their Gary campus! The Excel Center is a FREE Indiana charter high school designed to help adult students earn their Indiana Core 40 diploma and either a workplace certification through WorkOne and/or a college dual credit. We are different than online, self-study GED programs as we offer face-to-face instruction by certified teachers and a flexible schedule. The Excel Center also offers free on-site childcare (children 7 years and under), free transportation passes (for those who qualify), and free tutoring. All of this at no cost to the student! Our next 4 week class starts Monday, February 25! Ready to apply? click for details Questions? Contact us at lpederson@excelcenterhs.org or (219) 980-6381.

The Excel Center - Gary

219.980.6381 lpederson@excelcenterhs.org

- Storytime for preschoolers and their families. Enjoy an evening storytime with books, finger plays, and music. Feel free to wear pajamas to the Merrillville library! You must register for this program.

Merrillville Public Library

Youth Services 2197693541ext360 juvenile@lcplin.org

- There are so many options for family fun in Northwest Indiana. Check out this list of places to visit!

BELLABOO’S PLAY AND DISCOVERY CENTER
Three Rivers County Park
2800 Colorado St
Lake Station., IN
(219) 963-2070
This colorful and imaginative facility features 23,000 square feet of hands-on activities, including a block play and construction zone, face painting and dress-up, an art studio, water table, climbing structure, slides, ball pit, a room for toddlers and infants, a Wi-Fi café and much more.
click for details

CEDAR CREEK FAMILY GOLF CENTER
10483 W. 109th Avenue
Cedar Lake, IN
(219)365-2902
This 18 hole miniature golf course is surrounded with a water fall and two creeks. It is used for group activities, birthday parties, and family outings. This golf course has something for every member of the family to enjoy and is lit outside for night games. Summer Months.
click for details

CROWN POINT FAMILY FUN CENTER
1301 Merrillville Rd.
Crown Point, IN 46307
(219) 663-3663
Grab your family and friends and head for Crown Point Family Fun Center! Find go-karts, mini golf, arcade, batting cages, soccer cages, and more in a family-oriented New Orleans Mardi Gras setting. Relax under a colorful umbrella and sip a cold soft drink after playing 18 or 36 holes of golf. Check out the latest games in our spacious arcade, including Deal or No Deal and Smokin’ Token. We also have classic games like Skee Ball and Basketball. Go home with a string of beads for each go-kart and mini golf ticket you buy. Arcade Games Available in the Winter.
click for details

Edge Adventures NWI Indiana - DEEP RIVER PARK
9001 E. Lincoln Highway
Crown Point, IN 46307
(800) 590-8347
Edge Adventures aerial parks are treetop trails ranging from 16-60 feet in the air. Participants choose their own self guided course and engage in a combination of obstacles and zip lines as they maneuver their way through different trails
with a progressive degree of challenges. There are thrills to satisfy all adventure types!
click for details

Fair Oaks Farm
856 N 600 E
(219) 394-2025
Fair Oaks, IN 47943
Fair Oaks Farms is an escape to the country with acres of great outdoor fun, food and learning where you can explore family farms and reconnect with nature, animals and our planet.
click for details

FIREFLIES
1505 S Calumet Road
Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 929-4300
Indoor park offering a large playground, laser tag, arcade, party rooms, and more!
click for details

FUNFLATABLES
Locations in Valparaiso, Merrillville, Michigan City, Dyer, and Hebron
DYER: (219)322-5333
VALPARAISO: (219)242-8432
MERRILLVILLE: (219)769-7707
MICHIGAN CITY: (219)809-0888
HEBRON: (219)696-6666
FunFlatables’ Party-n-Play centers are your #1 family entertainment center for indoor, climate-controlled, all-occasion parties and FUN. Visit one or ALL of our unique, year-round, soft inflatable playgrounds where the whole family can have continuous FUN Jumping, Bouncing, Climbing, Snaking through Obstacles and Soaring down Slides! Indoor.
click for details

INMAN’S FUN AND PARTY CENTER
3201 E Evans Ave.
Valparaiso, IN
(219)462-1300
inmans@inmansvalpo.com
Inman's Bowling & Recreation Center is Northwest Indiana's Premiere Entertainment Complex located in Valparaiso, Indiana. We have something for everyone at our facility offering many entertainment attractions. 32 Lanes of Bowling, Video Game Arcade with Ticket Redemption, Roller Skating Rink, Go-Karts, 18 Hole Miniature Golf, Paddle Boat Soakers, 8 Billiard Pool Tables, Air Hockey, Bean Bags, and Kids Bounce Houses.
click for details

JAK'S WAREHOUSE
221 US-41
Schererville, IN 46375
(219) 322-5257
Welcome to JAK'S Warehouse. We are Northwest Indiana's premiere Indoor Family Fun Center. We are here to provide great entertainment for the whole family. Come make it a day at JAK'S Warehouse.
Come and enjoy attractions like Laser Tag, Go-Karts, Bumper Cars, Urban Golf, Ballocity, and our amazing Sky Trail! Indoor Park.
click for details

SKY ZONE TRAMPOLINE PARK
1035 Eagleridge
Schererville, IN 46375
(219) 227-3777
Sky Zone is the world’s first indoor trampoline park. We’re the inventors of “fun fitness” and the makers of trampolines as far as the eye can see. We give you one of the greatest workouts ever combined with awesome, healthy fun. Indoor Park.
click for details

THE COURTS OF NORTHWEST INDIANA
127 East US Highway 6
Valparaiso, IN 46383
(219) 465-1111
Air conditioned indoor year-round sports complex - Basketball, Tennis, Batting Cages, Gymnastics Open Gym, Birthday Parties, and more!
click for details

ZAO ISLAND
1050 Horse Prairie Ave.
Valparaiso
(219)462-1194
Filled with fun, this location offers a game room, miniature golfing, go karts, batting cages, a wild wave slide and more. Indoor arcade games in the winter.
click for details

ZIG-E’S FUNLAND
8176 Wicker Ave
St John, IN 46373
(219) 558-0596
Let’s face it. It’s difficult finding a place that’s fun for both children and parents especially in NW Indiana. Zig-E’s Funland bridges the gap, and brings families together. For over 5 years we’ve provided a place for adults to join in on the fun! Race your kids in go-karts, hit a few balls in the batting cages or spend some quality time at the arcade.
click for details

 

- Sample some of the regions delicious local wine and microbrews! Please check brewery and winery websites for hours of operation before planning your trip!

BREWERIES

BACK ROAD BREWERY
308 Perry, La Porte
219-362-7623
Established in 1996 in the county of LaPorte, Indiana, Back Road Brewery is LaPorte’s first production craft brewery.
click for details


BULLDOG BREWING COMPANY
1409 119th St, Whiting
219-655-5284
There's no assembly line here, just a hardworking brew master and his skilled comrades mastering the craft of our quality driven brew.
click for details


BURN 'EM BREWING
718 Freyer Rd., Michigan City
219-210-3784
Burn ‘Em Brewing strives to bring our creativity in the way we brew and what we brew with to produce the finest and most unique brews in our region.
click for details


BYWAY BREWING
2825 Carlson Dr, Hammond
219-844-5468
Brewery of finely crafted ales and lagers in northwest Indiana.
click for details


CROWN BREWING
211 S. East Street, Crown Point
219-663-4545
The brewery was founded in 2008 by Tim Walsh and Dave Bryan of Crown Point, IN.
They both wanted to see great craft beer in their local community! The City of Crown Point was home to a large regional brewery(Crown Brewing) that closed in 1916. They brought back the Crown Brewing name and the brewery has grown and become a part of the Crown Point community again. The brewery participates in community events and has teamed up with the City of Crown Point to host an annual Oktoberfest celebration! The brewery is now owned by Dave Bryan.
click for details


FIGURE EIGHT BREWING
150 S Washington St, Valparaiso
(219) 477-2000
A family friendly restaurant and brewery, locally owned and operated since 2010.
click for details


FOUR FATHERS BREWING LLC
1555 W Lincolnway Ste 105, Valparaiso
219-464-9712
We pride ourselves on creating a constantly revolving list of unique beers to serve while supporting and honoring those who serve and allow us to live our dream.
click for details


HUNTER'S BREWING
1535 S. Calumet Rd., Chesterton
219-728-6729
Hunter's Brewing is a nano-brewery located in Chesterton, IN. Brewed by hand on our one-barrel or three-barrel systems, Hunter's Brewing beers focus on flavor and range from the traditional to the creative.
click for details


IRONWOOD BREWING COMPANY
6 Roosevelt Rd, Valparaiso
219-405-4644
Ironwood Brewing Company is considered a tasting room/bar facility (you must be 21 to be on the property) - a place where fans of craft beer can meet for stimulating conversation and a couple of great brews.
click for details


NEW OBERPFALZ BREWING
121 E Main St., Griffith
219-513-9341
We specialize in German ales and lagers but maintain a roster of esoteric beer styles.
click for details


OFF SQUARE BREWING
11000 Delaware Parkway, Crown Point
(219) 310-8898
Off Square Brewing is a brewery in Crown Point. We are convenient to I-65 and the patrons in Porter and Lake Counties.
click for details


POKRO BREWING COMPANY
311 N. Broad St., Griffith
219-924-7950
We are a family-owned microbrewery specializing in Belgian, English, and other European style beers brewed by Joe Pokropinski. You will often find our brew master visiting with customers in the tasting rooms, talking about his beer.
click for details


SAINT JOHN MALT BROTHERS, INC.
9575 Wicker Avenue, St. John
219-627-4294
malt brothers Dave, Jim, and Dan started SJMB as a way to share their passion and commitment to offering great tasting and consistent brews crafted with natural ingredients.
click for details


SHORELINE BREWERY
208 Wabash St, Michigan City
219-879-4677
Shoreline Brewery has been serving handcrafted beers at the edge of Lake Michigan since it’s opening in August of 2005. To this day Shoreline is family-owned and independently run by its original founder and Head Brewer, Sam Strupeck. With twelve beers always on tap everyone will find a beer to fall in love with, whether it be the award-winning Beltaine Scottish Ale, the fan-favorite Curse the Goat, or the seasonal Stellar Blue blueberry ale.
click for details


THE DEVIL'S TRUMPET BREWING COMPANY
8250 Utah Street, Merrillville
219-576-7118
At The Devil’s Trumpet Brewing Co., we take pride in brewing quality hand crafted beers. The Devil’s Trumpet Brewing Co.’s mission is to produce aromatic, clean and full flavor craft beer. Brewed with old world tradition and new world imagination, we craft our ales to meet our high standards.
click for details


THE SOUR NOTE BREWING
498 Fayette Street in Hammond
219-803-7917
click for details


WILDROSE BREWING COMPANY
1104 E. Main St., Griffith
219-595-5054
Four region dudes and a chick dedicated to making the best brews possible!
click for details


WINDMILL BREWING
2121 Gettler St., Dyer,
(219) 440-2189
Two words that describe who we are and what we do. Beer because we are first and foremost a brewery, a brewery dedicated to creating some of the finest ales and lagers around. Reformed because of our approach to beer. Beer isn't meant to just be consumed, it's meant to be enjoyed and shared.
click for details


3 FLOYDS BREWING CO.
9750 Indiana Parkway, Munster
219-922-3565
From our humble beginnings in 1996—armed with only a few hundred dollars, a five-barrel Frankenstein wok-burner-fired brew kettle, re-purposed open Swiss cheese fermenters (Hammond Squares) and an old Canfield’s Cola tank— ”It’s Not Normal” ales and lagers were born.
click for details


18TH STREET BREWERY
5725 Miller Ave., Gary & 5417 N Oakley Ave. Hammond
219-939-8802
We are currently the second largest brewery in Northwest Indiana. Our beers range from saisons, to double india pale ales, to double milk stouts, to pilsners and lagers. 18th Street is comprised of hard working, motivated individuals who strive to be the best. We love our jobs. We love our beer. We live and love what we do.
click for details


ZORN BREWS
605 E 9th St, Michigan City
219-243-7157
Welcome to a craft beer experience over 145 years in the making. Inspired by the historic and iconic Michigan City microbrewery…now reborn with the finest flavors of today. Come discover the all-new selection of expertly crafted beers. And savor the smooth, satisfying experience in every glass.
click for details

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WINERIES

AFTERMATH CIDERY & WINERY
15 North Washington Street, Valparaiso
(219) 299-VINE (8463)
click for details


ANDERSON'S VINEYARD & WINERY
430 E. U.S. Highway 6, Valparaiso
219-464-4936
On the southernmost tip of Lake Michigan, just south of the largest sand dunes in the Midwest, lies a ridge formed thousands of years ago by the glaciers as they crept south during the three great Ice Ages that covered the mid-western area and created the Great Lakes. This ridge is called the Valparaiso Moraine. It is the highest point in northwest Indiana, and home to one of Indiana's best kept secrets, Anderson's Vineyard and Winery.
click for details


BUTLER WINERY & VINEYARDS
401 Broadway, Chesterton
219-929-1400
Butler Winery is a special place for many reasons. It’s the topography. Grapes like to be high and dry; we sit 300 feet above the floor of the Bean Blossom Valley. Cold air settles down into the valley, protecting us from late spring frost. It’s also our thin, low nutrient soil that lets the vines struggle just a little to produce well-flavored grapes. And it’s the climate. Like Goldilocks, we’re neither too hot nor too cold to ripen mature fruit. We’re just right. Finally it’s our people, bring years of experience, innovation, and attention to detail, who make up the final piece of the puzzle. On your next visit, pause for a moment and soak in the special qualities of Butler Winery.
click for details


CARPENTER CREEK CELLARS
11144 Jordan Road, Remington
219-866-4334
Carpenter Creek Cellars, the original winery in Jasper County, Indiana, is a farm winery producing world-class wines which embody the best terroir and fruit the Midwest has to offer. Stop by today to experience a unique Hoosier winery and Midwestern winemaking at its finest!
click for details


FOUR CORNERS WINERY
294 E 600 N, Valparaiso
(219) 730-5311
Located in the the country, on 4 corners, you will find the perfect rustic, quaint and peaceful property to gather your family and friends and say "We do".
click for details


LAMBSTONE CELLARS
1555 West Lincolnway, Valparaiso
(219) 510-5673
Located on the edge of Valparaiso we are a family owned boutique winery specializing in hand crafted small batch wines from local and west coast grapes. Stop in and experience the relaxed atmosphere of our tasting room and find the wine that fits your day categories.
click for details


MANIC MEADERY
1003 E Summit St., Crown Point
Manic Meadery is a commercially licensed micro winery in Crown Point. We craft small batch mead, wine, and cider.
click for details


MISBEEHAVIN' MEADS
65 Franklin St, Valparaiso
(219) 242-8616
We release annually around 48 different meads, which explore different fruits and varietal honeys. Many of our meads are unconventional, featuring unusual ingredients and processes. We age lots of mead on wood or in barrels.
click for details


RUNNING VINES
119 S. Calumet, Ste 101-105, Chesterton
219-390-WINE
We feature wines for the entire palate. From the dry light bodied wines of our Fit Collection, to fruitier sweeter wines of our Race Collection. Click below for more details.
click for details


SHADY CREEK WINERY
2030 Tryon Rd, Michigan City
219-874-9463
A great winery experience on the southern Lake Michigan shore. Featuring custom crafted wines and a first class facility situated on nearly 20 acres of grounds with expansive views, comfortable patios, covered porches, fireplaces, tasting room, specialty foods, gifts and local artwork. All of this, about an hour from Chicago in Michigan City, Indiana! Conveniently located between the Blue Chip and Four Winds Casinos and close to Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, Indiana Dunes National Park, as well as New Buffalo, Michigan and Harbor Country on Highway 212 just south of U.S. Highway 12.
click for details


WHYTE HORSE WINERY
1510 S Airport Rd, Monticello
(574) 583-2345
We make a variety of dry, semi-dry, and sweet wines, reds and whites, all in a fruit-forward style. Our menu changes based on season and availability.
click for details

 

- Northwest Indiana is home to many public, semi-private and private golf courses. Call individual locations for course conditions and available tee times.


CEDAR LAKE


Cedar Creek Family Golf Center
10483 W. 109th Avenue, Cedar Lake
219-365-2902
Located on Route 231 1/4 miles east of Route 41. Exit Interstate 65 at Route 231 and go west toward Crown Point. Follow Rt. 231 around the Crown Point square then about four miles west. Park opens at 8 a.m. and has various season closing times.
click for details


Palmira Golf & Country Club
12111 W 109th Street, Saint John
(219) 365-4331
Located in Northwest Indiana convenient to Chicago and the South Suburbs, Palmira has undergone extensive construction in the last 10 years and is now regarded as one of the premier public courses in the area. The course has bent grass fairways, many elevated tees, numerous water hazards and a course design that features risk reward golf architecture. We have a state-of-the-art Practice Facility - Driving Range with grass tees, enormous undulating Putting Green with chipping and traps.
click for details


South Shore Country Club
14400 Lake Shore Dr., Cedar Lake
(219) 374-6070
Established in 1928, South Shore Country Club is located on the shores of Cedar Lake in Indiana. At one hour from the Loop and less from the south suburbs, the Club is convenient to all of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. Our well-manicured 18 hole course measures 5466 yards and features well trapped greens with par 3’s that everyone can enjoy. Our mobile website has GPS and flyovers for golfers to use out on the course. This spring, over 300 new trees are being added and the fleet is welcoming 10 new carts. Be sure to visit the Shore Club restaurant and bar after your round for a steak or one of our local favorite seafood offerings.
click for details


CHESTERTON


Brassie Golf Club
1110 Pearson Rd., Chesterton
(219) 921–1192
The best conditioned greens in the area are large and inviting yet present an interesting two-putt challenge. Stretching to 7,008 yards from the black tees with a slope rating of 130 and course rating of 73.4, The Brassie Golf Club has four very different sets of tees that provide a friendly golf challenge to some golfers and an extreme examination of your golf game to the highly skilled. Fun for all ability levels, the course plays very differently based on weather conditions and the time of year.
click for details


Sand Creek Country Club
1001 Sand Creek Dr., Chesterton, IN 46304
(219) 395-5200
From the moment you arrive at Sand Creek Country Club, you know you are in for something special. Ideally located in Northwest Indiana in the quaint town of Chesterton, near the southern shores of Lake Michigan and just a 50 minute drive from downtown Chicago. Resort-like style services and facilities, along with award winning world-class golf; have earned Sand Creek the reputation of being the Premier Family Oriented Country Club in the Midwest.
click for details


CROWN POINT


Four Seasons Country Club
1054 Sunnyslope Drive, Crown Point
(219) 988-2201
Located in Winfield, Indiana, Four Seasons Country Club is one of Chicagoland's hidden gems. Established in 1966 our 18 hole golf course located within the private gates of the Lakes of the Four Seasons community has proudly served the Northwest Indiana Region offering private membership experience at an extremely affordable price for over 50 years.
click for details


Oak Knoll Golf Course
11200 Whitcomb Street, Crown Point
(219) 663-3349
Built in 1925, Oak Knoll Golf Course in Crown Point Indiana has been a staple of Northwest Indiana golf for years. Located just west of the Crown Point Indiana, this 18-hole public golf course offers a great experience for golfers of all ages and abilities. If you’re new to the game of golf, you’ll find the wide fairways and relaxed play very enjoyable. For the experienced player, our smaller greens should provide a nice challenge for your short game. Our Clubhouse features a full-service bar area that offers a great place to relax before or after your round of golf. Our facilities also provide the perfect venue for your next golf outing. Make a tee time or book an outing, our staff will be happy to take care of the details.
click for details


Pheasant Valley Country Club
3838 W. 141st Ave., Crown Point
(219) 663-5000
Built in 1967, Pheasant Valley Country Club in Crown Point Indiana is a premier golf course that has always challenged the best players in the area. Pheasant Valley is also known as “The scenic nature course”. There are no home sites anywhere on the course. With 5 sets of tees to choose from, golfers of all skill levels can enjoy this Northwest Indiana masterpiece. If you haven’t played Pheasant Valley in a while, give it a try, you won’t be disappointed.
click for details


Summer Tree Golf Club
2323 E. 101st Ave., Crown Point
(219) 663-0800
Built in the early 1970’s, Summer Tree Golf Club in Crown Point Indiana is another Hegan masterpiece. The course offers natural beauty with rolling, tree-lined fairways, large greens, and 5 sets of tees for every skill level. Another feature is number 14 tee sits on the highest point in Lake County.
With its continuous cart paths, new irrigation and drainage, the course is always ready to play.
click for details


White Hawk Country Club
1001 White Hawk Dr., Crown Point
(219) 661-1300
White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point is a premiere golf course in Northwest Indiana. Located less than an hour south of downtown Chicago, this 36-Hole facility has four beautiful nines that present a fun and unique test of golf at every turn. White Hawk Country Club is beautifully carved out of 600 acres and surrounded by tranquil scenery that includes forests, prairies, streams and wetlands. Excellent course conditions await members, their guest, and public play at this championship facility.
click for details


Youche Country Club
2301 W 129th Pl, Crown Point
(219) 663-1418
Youche® Country Club is Northwest Indiana's premier golf and social club. Upon joining Youche, you will experience a tradition of friendly membership and excellent golf in a relaxed environment. Youche has maintained its membership at levels that preclude the need for tee times and keep its average 18 hole round under 4 hours. Youche’s fast greens and excellent conditions are legendary. A New Clubhouse was built in 2008, and boasts elegant dining rooms, locker room facilities, meeting rooms, Member Bar, and much, much more! The Club also has a Golf Shop for all of your equipment, shoes, and apparel needs. Youche is also a popular destination for weddings, showers, corporate events, class reunions and more, boasting fantastic gathering areas and enticing food and beverage packages.
click for details


GARY


South Gleason Golf Course
3400 Jefferson St, Gary
(219) 980-1089
18-hole Bent grass course with water in play.
Weekday green fees for non-members are $17 for 18 holes and $12 for 9 holes during peak season.
Weekend green fees for non-members are $19 for 18 holes and $13 for 9 holes during peak season.
click for details


HAMMOND


Lost Marsh Golf Course
901 E 129th St, Hammond
(219) 932-4046
Home to a world class 18-hole public golf course and a challenging 9-hold executive course, Lost Marsh is a shining example of brown-field reclamation, habitat restoration, and a satisfying golfing experience. The second floor of the clubhouse features a new restaurant and lounge complete with outdoor seating that offers stunning views of the course and marina. At just over 20 minutes from downtown Chicago and the Loop, it truly is one of Chicago's premier courses.
click for details


HIGHLAND


Wicker Park Golf Course
8554 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland
(219) 838-9809
Wicker Memorial Park Golf Course offers great golf at some of the lowest, most competitive rates in the region. The course is conveniently located just minutes from Interstate 80/94 on the corner of Ridge Road and Indianapolis Boulevard. This par 72 course offers tree-lined fairways, a practice green and driving range.
click for details


HOBART


Cressmoor Country Club
601 N Wisconsin St, Hobart
(219) 942-9300
This flat course is easy to walk, but accuracy is still important because of its narrow fairways. The signature hole is #7, a 370-yard, par 4, requiring a well-positioned tee shot, and then an approach around a lake to the green. Water hazards (lakes) come into play on at least three separate occasions.
click for details


Duck Creek Golf Course
638 N 700 W, Hobart
(219) 759-5870
We are a 18 hole golf course par 70. It is a great course to look around at. There are woods and water that come into play all around the course.
click for details


Indian Ridge Country Club
6363 Grand Blvd, Hobart
(219) 942-6850
Built in 1926, Indian Ridge Country Club in Hobart Indiana has provided Northwest Indiana golfers with a fun, challenging, and friendly place to enjoy the game of golf. The layout is a basic, old school golf course design. It has a variety of long and short holes with just enough trees and sand to keep it challenging. Due to the sand-based soil, the course drains very well. When other courses are too wet, Indian Ridge is most likely open for play.
click for details


LAPORTE


Beechwood Golf Course
2222 Woodlawn Dr, La Porte
(219) 362-2651
Beechwood Golf Course is a beautiful 18 hole championship golf course designed by William Diddle. Beechwood was built in the early 1930’s and donated to the City of LaPorte, Indiana by the Fox Family.
The course’s traditional layout and masterful design allows you to use every club in the bag. It is a must play for golfers of any skill level, and the low prices make Beechwood one of the best deals in the state!
click for details


Briar Leaf Golf Club
3233 IN-39, La Porte
(219) 326-1992
Built on a farm in the 1970s, our 35-year-old classical layout has been undergoing numerous improvements each year that have made Briar Leaf a favorite Michiana golf destination.
Briar Leaf offers four sets of tees allowing players to enjoy the course from wherever they choose to play. While the course is scenic and challenging from the forward and middle tees, the back tees (slope rating 133) will give the low handicapper all they want in a great test of golf.
click for details


Legacy Hills Golf Club
299 W. Johnson Road, LaPorte
(219) 324-4777
Legacy Hills Golf Club is in the unique position of being both one of Indianas oldest golf coures, and one of Indiana’s newest golf courses. The course was originally established in 1904, and has changed ownership several times. Most recently, the investment group Beacon Hills Golf Club, inc. purchased the course, along with a considerable amount of land across the street. This land has since been converted into the new back nine, and features many beautiful and scenic lots. The back nine is very well designed and features some of the finest in Indiana golf!
click for details


MERRILLVILLE


Turkey Creek Golf Course
6400 Harrison St, Merrillville
(219) 980-5170
The course offers hilly, tree-lined fairways with slightly sloping greens that provide the golfer with a feeling of a classic golf course. Turkey Creek also features a putting green to perfect that stroke, pro shop for those things you might have forgotten, a full-service restaurant, lounge, and snack bar facilities. Tee times are accepted up to 7 days in advance and the course is easily accessible off I-65.
click for details


Innsbrook Country Club
6701 Taft St, Merrillville
(219) 980-9060
Nestled on 130 acres, just 35 minutes from Chicago, is Innsbrook Country Club’s William Langford Preserved Original Design championship golf course. This legendary 18 hole course is unique with six Par-3, six Par-4 and six Par-5 holes.
click for details


MICHIGAN CITY


Michigan City Municipal Golf Course
4000 E Michigan Blvd, Michigan City
(219) 873-1516
The Michi­gan City Munic­i­pal Golf Course fea­tures two beau­ti­ful 18-​hole courses set in a tran­quil wooded set­ting. Rec­og­nized as one of the pre­mier pub­lic courses for lovers of golf in Indi­ana, the Michi­gan City Golf Course offers a chal­leng­ing day of play for every age and skill level.
click for details


Long Beach Country Club
2309 Larchmont Ave, Michigan City
(219) 872-0689
The Course opened in 1924 with renovations in 1975, 1989 and most recently in 2014, with continual upgrades to make your golfing experience the best it can be. A few features of the course include wonderful vistas from high atop sand dunes on the 1st, 10th and 17th tees, three par 3’s in the first five holes, three par 5’s in the last five holes, and century old stands of black and white oaks.
click for details


Pottawattamie Country Club
1900 Springland Ave, Michigan City, IN 46360
(219) 872-8624
You’ll enjoy challenging golf, friendly camaraderie with other members and organized golf and social events, and delicious dining. From early spring to late fall, Pottawattomie Country Club offers the best golf club experience around in Northern Indiana.
click for details


SCHERERVILLE


Scherwood Golf
600 E Joliet St., Schererville
(219) 865-2554
Scherwood is located in downtown Schererville, Indiana occupying 165 acres. The 27 hole facility consists of an 18 hole – par 71 – 6900 yard regulation course, and a 9 hole – par 30 – 1600 yard executive course. Both courses offer blue grass fairways and large penn cross bent grass greens. The course is generally flat with elevated greens and water coming into play on most holes.
Scherwood is semi-private and offers large men and ladies organizations. Yearly memberships, both weekday and full time, are available on a limited basis.
Updates to the course have been made to create extra challenges and maintain a fresh new look. One of the most recent updates was the addition of two new holes to create room for a new modern practice facility.
click for details


Briar Ridge Country Club
123 Country Club Dr., Schererville
(219) 322-3660
Briar Ridge prides itself on its warm and friendly atmosphere. We work hard to introduce new members quickly into the Briar Ridge lifestyle and all it has to offer. Our staff is tireless in maintaining the grounds and golf course, offering up the best cuisine, and hosting special events. Briar Ridge has an active social calendar, giving our members NUMEROUS opportunities to socialize, dine and make new friends. We also have a relaxing and inviting pool where families have a wonderful time.
click for details


VALPARAISO


Creekside Golf Course
2355 Clifford Road, Valparaiso
(219) 531-7888
Take a short drive to the outskirts of downtown Valparaiso, and you’ll find a very unique and challenging golf course that’s a hidden gem in the world of golf.
click for details


The Course at Aberdeen
245 Tower Rd, Valparaiso
(219) 462-5050
Consistently rated among the best golf courses in Northwest Indiana and Greater South Bend Michigan by Northwest Indiana Business Quarterly, the course at Aberdeen offers 18 player-friendly holes with top notch service!
click for details


Forest Park Golf Course
1155 Sheffield Drive
Valparaiso, IN 46385
(219) 531-7888
Nestled in the heart of Valparaiso, Forest Park has long been a golfer’s favorite place to play. With a somewhat wide open traditional parkland front nine, and a very challenging back nine that has several elevation changes and relatively small greens, Forest Park awakes the senses and challenges your skills.
click for details


Mink Lake Golf Course
636 N Calumet Ave., Valparaiso
(219) 462-2585
Mink Lake Golf Course~ Were old and new friends meet~ Built in 1922 as Wauhob Golf Club.In 1950 the Sella family bought it from the Morthland Family and put the par 5 in on #6 in the early 1960's The Sportiest Course in Northwest Indiana. Beautiful & Scenic,Hilly 9 hole course built on the Valparaiso moraine
click for details


Robbinhurst Golf Club and Driving Range
383 W. Co. Rd. 875 N., Valparaiso
(219) 762-9711
Robbinhurst is a full-service golf facility offering club rentals, lessons, club fitting, on-site repair and a pro shop.
click for details

 

- Pokagon State Park's refrigerated Toboggan Run near Angola, Indiana, has about 90,000 riders every season. With the 30-foot tower and dips and valleys, the total vertical drop is 90 feet over the course of a quarter mile. The top recorded speed is 42 mph. It's a 20 to 30 second thrill ride.

Schedule

It opens for the season, with or without snow at 10:30 a.m., Nov. 23. It operates through Feb. 24, 2019.

Hours
Friday: 5:30-9 p.m.
Saturday: 10:30 a.m.-9 p.m.
Sunday: 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Fees & General Information
Toboggan sled rental per hour: $13 (including tax).
Toboggan renters are guaranteed one ride per hour during peak times.
Friday Special: Rent three toboggans in the same hour, the third one is free (except during winter break).
Park entrance fees: $7 in-state vehicles, $9 out-of-state vehicles, $2 a person on a bus.
During winter, fees are collected Friday nights and on weekends when the run is open.
Park closes at 11 p.m. Opens at 7 a.m.
Driver’s license is required as deposit, rents up to four toboggans.
Must use park’s sleds. Rented on first-come, first-served basis.
Maximum of four people per toboggan (no exceptions).
Cash, check and Visa/MasterCard accepted.
No all-day rentals.
No group reservations or group rates.
There are no specific age or height restrictions, but children must be able to understand and abide by rules.
No cameras or video equipment allowed on ride.
Toboggan will close if temperature drops to 0 degrees F or below.
Warming Center concession available (carry-in food prohibited).
Nature Center is open noon-4 p.m. Wednesday-Friday; closed Monday and Tuesday; and open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday.
The park office, (260) 833-2012, is open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. every day, except Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

Pokagon State Park

260.833.2012

- Don't let the cold weather keep you on the couch. Northwest Indiana has over 10 ice skating facilities to choose from! There are indoor and outdoor options if the weather isn't quite cooperating.

Bulldog Park
183 S. West Street, Crown Point
219.661.2271
click for details

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DEEP RIVER SKATE PLAZA IN CROWN POINT
9001 E. US Hwy 30
(219)947-7850
Open skating hours of operation:
November 24, 2017- February 25, 2018
Thursday: 4pm - 9pm
Fridays: 4pm - 10pm
Saturday: Noon - 10pm
Sunday and Holiday periods: Noon - 9pm
Closed Monday - Wednesday, except during Holiday/School break periods and private rentals
click for details

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CROWN POINT SPORTSPLEX
1313 E North Street
Crown Point, IN 46307
Phone: 219.661.2271
The City of Crown Point has rinks for ice skating and hockey at the Sportsplex. These rinks are open when the ice is frozen solid.

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GRIFFITH CENTRAL PARK ICE RINK
698 N Broad St
Griffith, Indiana 46319
219-922-3078
The ice skating rink is available for use in Central Park ** pending temperatures allow for the ice to freeze **

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HAMMOND AREA PARKS

Edison Park
Madison Ave. & Mulberry Street

Hessville Park
173rd St. & Kennedy Avenue

Irving Park
Hoffman St. & Columbia Avenue

Pulaski Park
139th St. & Sheffield Avenue

Riverside Park
Calumet Ave. & River Drive North

Weather permitting. Contact the Civic Center at (219)853- 6378 or
click for details

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MACARTHUR GOLF COURSE
4000 Indianapolis Blvd
East Chicago, IN 46312
(219) 391-8362
Thursdays and Fridays: 3 to 8 p.m. through March.
Saturdays and Sundays: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through March.
$2 entry fee. Skate rental $3 per hour.

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MIDWEST TRAINING & ICE CENTER
10600 White Oak Ave.
Dyer, IN 46311
(219) 558-8811
Midwest Training & Ice Center is Northwest Indiana's largest state-of- the-art training facility. For the general public, Midwest Training & Ice Center offers open skate sessions and drop-in hockey.
For more information, click for details

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THE LAKE AT WASHINGTON PARK IN MICHIGAN CITY
115 Lakeshore Dr.
(219) 873-1506
Contact the Parks Department for specific dates and times.
For more information, click for details

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SOLDIERS MEMORIAL PARK IN LA PORTE
250 Pine Lake Ave.
Weather Permitting. Parks are open from sunrise until 10 p.m.
For more information, click for details

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WILLIAM E. URSCHEL PAVILION ICE RINK AT CENTRAL PARK PLAZA IN VALPARAISO
68 Lafayette St

For open skate dates/times, click for details

Open skate, skating specials, lessons, birthday parties and more! For more information and pricing please contact the Park Office at 219.462.5144 or click for details

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- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
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WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Increase your birding lists by enhancing your birding skills! Join us at Gibson Woods for this free program Wednesdays from November 7 through March 27 at 9:30 AM as we familiarize ourselves with the bird songs we hear in Northwest Indiana throughout the year. No program December 19, 26 or January 2. This program is designed for adults.

Gibson Woods Nature Preserve

Lake County Parks 219.769.7275 info@lakecountyparks.com

- March 24

Underwater Egg Hunt in Munster- MUNSTER
click for details

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April 6

Breakfast with the Bunny in Schererville- SCHERERVILLE
click for details

FAMILY BUNNIES N BOTTLES- SCHERERVILLE
click for details

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April 12

The Great Egg Chase- MUNSTER
click for details

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April 13

Breakfast with the Bunny at HCHS- CEDAR LAKE
click for details

HC Annual Egg Hunt- CEDAR LAKE
click for details

Bunny Hop Eggstravaganza Kids Night Out- DYER
click for details

Annual Easter Egg Hunt in Dyer- DYER
click for details

Annual Easter Egg Hunt- EAST CHICAGO
click for details

Breakfast with the East Bunny in Highland- HIGHLAND
click for details

Community & CSRI Egg Hunt in Munster- MUNSTER
click for details

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April 18

Flashlight Egg Hunt- SCHERERVILLE
click for details

 

- For musical dates & tickets, click for details

Oh, the Thinks you can think...when you think about Seuss! In this fantastical, magical musical, some of your favorite Dr. Seuss characters are lovingly brought to life with the Cat in the Hat, Horton the Elephant, Gertrude McFuzz, Lazy Mayzie and all of the Whos of Whoville. These classic, colorful tales are brought together by Jojo, a young "thinker of strange and wonderful thinks," in a special one-hour show that's perfect for kids (and parents) of all ages. All performances will be followed by a Q&A session with the cast, so stick around and ask your burning questions! It's a show the whole family can enjoy, so don't miss Seussical the Musical when it comes to Lincolnshire's Marriott Theatre.

Marriott Theatre

Marriott Theatre 847.634.0200

- *Please note the term "fish dinner" includes different varieties of fish meals (lake perch, salmon, fish tacos, etc.), please check the menu before going to eat! Enjoy!

CEDAR LAKE

Great Oaks Banquet
(219) 374-8000
13109 Wicker Ave., Cedar Lake IN
White Fish Dinner Every Wednesday 4p-8p!
click for details

Sandbar Grill
(219) 374-5777
13118 Lake Shore Dr, Cedar Lake IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

St. Michael the Archangel
219-374-7621
6629 W. 133rd Ave., Cedar Lake
Every Friday from 4-7:30pm
click for details

AMVETS POST #15 CEDAR LAKE FISH FRY- First Thursday of each month
click for details

Sons of American Legion Fish Fry- 3rd Friday of each month
click for details

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CROWN POINT

Culvers
219-663-2212
1800 E Summit St, Crown Point, IN
Offers a cod dinner.
click for details

Main Street Cafe
(219) 663-7466
111 N Main St. Crown Point IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

Prime Steakhouse
(219) 663-7377
109 W Joliet St., Crown Point IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

Twelve Islands Restaurant
(219) 663-5070
114 S Main St., Crown Point IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

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DYER

Casa Maria (St. Maria Goretti)
219-865-5482
500 Northgate Dr., Dyer
Fridays during Lent
click for details

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EAST CHICAGO

American Legion Post 369
1401 E. Chicago Ave.
First Friday of each month from 4p-7p.
For the legions Facebook page, click for details

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GARY

St. Mary of the Lake-
219-938-1373
6060 Miller Ave., Gary
Friday, March 8 3:30p-8p.
click for details

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GRIFFITH

VFW Post 9982
219-924-6102
301 E. Main St., Griffith
Every Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.

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HIGHLAND

Culvers
219-934-7900
3950 Ridge Rd, Highland, IN
Offers a cod dinner.
click for details

Theo's Steaks and Seafood
(219) 838-8000
9144 Indianapolis Blvd., Highland IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

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LAKE STATION

VFW Post No. 9323
219-962-3522
2750 Central Ave., Lake Station
Every Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.
click for details

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LOWELL

George's Family Restaurant
1910 E. Commercial Ave., Lowell, IN
219-696-0313
Menu offers fish dinners
click for details

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MERRILLVILLE

Culvers
219-736-2000
1579 E 79th Ave, Merrillville, IN
Offers a cod dinner.
click for details

St. Michael's Byzantine
219-980-0600
557 W. 57th Ave., Merrillville
Fridays year-round except holidays.
click for details

St. Elijah Serbian American Hall
219-769-4375
8700 Taft Street, Merrillville
Every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m.

Saint Sava
219-736-9191
9191 Mississippi St., Merrillville
March 3- April 14

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MUNSTER

Kitaro Surf & Turf & Sushi
(219) 301-5090
9625 Calumet Ave Suite A, Munster IN
Offering Fish Dinners.
click for details

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PORTAGE

American Legion Post 260
219-762-3541
5675 Mulberry, Portage
Every Friday 4p-8p.
click for details

The Portage Marquette Yacht Club
(219) 762-9961
1218 N. Crisman Road
Fridays from 5:30 to 8:45.
click for details

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PORTER

VFW Post 2511
219-926-4441
1290 Wagner Rd., Porter
Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For Facebook page, click for details

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SCHERERVILLE

Culvers
219-322-2266
980 W Lincoln Hwy, Schererville, IN
Offers a cod dinner.
click for details

Teibels
(219) 865-2000
1775 US Highway 41, Schererville IN
Offers fish dinners.
click for details

Descent of the Holy Spirit
219-864-1529
545 East 77th Ave., Schererville
Every Friday.
click for details

Halls of St. George
219-865-9411
905 E. Joliet St.
Every Friday from 4 to 8 p.m.

Scherwood Golf
219-865-2554
600 East Joliet St., Schererville
Every Friday.
click for details

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SOUTH HAVEN

The Knights of Columbus
219-962-8828
356 W. County Road 700 North
Fridays, March 8 to April 12 from 4:30p-7p.

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VALPARAISO

Moose Lodge 1357
219-462-2311
108 Indiana Ave.
Fridays from 4:30 to 7 p.m.
For Facebook Page, click for details

Morgan Township Volunteer Fire Department
291-2 S. Ind. 49
4 to 7 p.m. March 15.
click for details

 

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Veterans of all ages are invited to a complimentary breakfast the 3rd Thursday of each month. Meet and gather with other veterans over a hearty breakfast. Seating is limited - reservations required - call 219/465-1591.

This monthly breakfast is held at Pines Village Retirement Community located at 3303 Pines Village Circle in Valparaiso, IN.

Pines Village Retirement Communities

Amy Page 219.465.1591 a.page@pinesvillage.org

- The Excel Center is now enrolling adult students for their Gary campus! The Excel Center is a FREE Indiana charter high school designed to help adult students earn their Indiana Core 40 diploma and either a workplace certification through WorkOne and/or a college dual credit. We are different than online, self-study GED programs as we offer face-to-face instruction by certified teachers and a flexible schedule. The Excel Center also offers free on-site childcare (children 7 years and under), free transportation passes (for those who qualify), and free tutoring. All of this at no cost to the student! Our next 4 week class starts Monday, February 25! Ready to apply? click for details Questions? Contact us at lpederson@excelcenterhs.org or (219) 980-6381.

The Excel Center - Gary

219.980.6381 lpederson@excelcenterhs.org

- Brookfield Zoo offers free admission to all guests on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays through February 28, 2019. Free Days are presented by Metro by T-Mobile.

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo 708.688.8000

- Come jam with some of the funniest improv actors in Chicagoland. Curious first timers & long time vets are all welcome. Free admission to participate or to just watch.

East Wind Studios

- You don't have to travel into the city for the theater. Check out these various theaters and their productions in Northwest Indiana.


Acting Theatre of Michigan City
215 West 10th Street, Michigan City
(219) 872-4221
The Acting Theatre of Michigan city is a not-for-profit foundation dedicated to producing first-time theatre of all disciplines created especially for Michigan City area audiences and in cooperation with other arts organizations.
click for details


Beatniks on Conkey
418 Conkey Street, Hammond
219-852-0848
BEATNIKS was created by Rip and Bonnie Johnson as a place for creative minds to try out new material, for theater groups who need a place to perform, to offer the public a place to relax, have a cup of coffee, maybe a snack or two, and be entertained. Unless otherwise marked, shows on Friday and Saturday - doors open at 7:30 PM, show starts at 8:00 PM.
Sunday matinees - doors open at 1:30 PM, show at 2:00 PM.
Plan on being prompt... for complimentary beverages, snacks and pastries.
click for details


Chicago Street Theatre
154 W. Chicago Street, Valparaiso
(219) 464-1636
Our award-winning theatre company began a new chapter of its history in 1997 when we purchased the Chicago Street Theatre, located at 154 West Chicago Street in Valparaiso, Indiana. The theatre underwent an extensive renovation completed February 1, 2008. The intimate 130-seat theatre now features brand new stadium seating that makes it an incredible space to enjoy live theatre.
click for details


Dune Arts Foundation
288 Shady Oak Drive, Michigan City
(219) 879-7509
The Dunes Arts Foundation, Inc., which operates the Dunes Summer Theatre and The Dunes Youth Programs, was incorporated in the State of Indiana on January 17th, 1952. Located in Michiana Shores, the theatre is nestled on a scenic 20 acre wooded site, about a half mile from the Indiana Dunes and the Lake Michigan shore. It seats over 270 patrons, hosts 12 cabins for summer actors and interns, and has an outside pavilion.
click for details


Canterbury Theatre
807 Franklin Street, Michigan City
(219) 874-4269
Canterbury Winter Arts Series has something for everyone, with a season that includes theatrical productions for both adults and children, live music from the best of local artists, open mic nights and more!
Canterbury Summer Theatre celebrates its 50th anniversary season in 2018 as one of the Midwest's oldest professional summer companies, presenting an exciting slate of comedies, musicals and thrillers, produced by our talented Resident Company, hailing from throughout the country. Come see tomorrow's stars, today!
click for details


Foot Light Players
1705 Franklin St, Michigan City
(219) 874-4035
Northwest Indiana's award winning community theatre.
click for details


Gary Shakespeare Company
3401 Broadway, Gary
(219) 938-4565
Free Shakespeare for Northwest Indiana.
click for details


Highland Parks Performing Arts Group Summer Theatre
Performances are held at:
Main Square Gazebo
Fifth St. and Ridge Road
Highland, IN 46322
219.838.0114
The Highland Parks Performing Arts Group puts on a summer production on the lawn at Main Square.
click for details


LaPorte Little Theatre Club
218 A. St., LaPorte
(219) 362.5113
La Porte Little Theatre Club is family fun and friendly. We encourage everyone to take part in community theatre, whether you are on stage or part of the crew, you just can't beat live theatre for fun and excitement!
click for details


L’arc en Ciel Theatre Group
Performances held at:
Great Oaks After 4 Club
13109 Wicker Avenue, Cedar Lake
(219) 374-8000
The Region’s only full-time dinner theatre.
click for details


Marian Theatre Guild
119th St. and Lincoln Ave., Whiting
(219) 473-7555
The Marian Theatre Guild is Whiting's longest running community theatre, presenting a fall musical and spring drama/comedy annually. The Guild is associated with St. John the Baptist Catholic Church and performs in their Marian Memorial Auditorium located at 119th Street and Lincoln Avenue.
Please watch our calendar of events on Whiting's town page for upcoming shows.
click for details


Memorial Opera House
104 Indiana Avenue in Valparaiso
(219) 548-9137
Built in 1893 as a memorial to Civil War veterans, this historic landmark theatre continues a long tradition of opening its doors to local and national talent. With each season specifically selected to delight and entertain our patrons, we know even the most discerning theater enthusiast will be captivated.
click for details


Ross Music Theatre
In association with M & M Productions
227 Center St, Hobart
(219) 947-4922
If you enjoy theatre and have not experienced it in our intimate setting you owe it to yourself to check out a show here. We Think you will love it.
click for details


Theater at the Center
1040 Ridge Road in Munster
(219) 836-1930
The mission of Theatre at the Center, Inc. is to bring to The Center for Visual and Performing Arts disciplines of the performing arts that are at once appealing, educational, and accessible to the entire community.
click for details


Theatre Northwest on Grant
3660 Grant Street, Gary
(219) 980-6808
Theatre Northwest at the Arts & Sciences Building houses a state-of-the-art 500-seat proscenium theater and a more intimate 100-seat Studio Theatre. Newly opened in the Fall of 2017, both facilities are located on the 2nd floor. Read more about the new theatre here.
click for details


The Towle Theater
5205 Hohman Avenue, Hammond
(219) 937-8780
Towle Theater is conveniently located 1/2 block West of Dan Rabin Plaza and less than 1 mile from the South Shore Train Line for access to public transportation.
click for details


Valparaiso University Theatre
Valparaiso University Center for the Arts,
U.S. Highway 30 and Sturdy Road, Valparaiso
(219) 464-5162
Each year, the department presents an extensive season of theatrical performances featuring students of many majors.
click for details


4th Street Theater
125 N. Fourth Street, Chesterton
(219) 926-7875
Originally founded in 1990 as the North Coast Cultural Association and was located in the former St. Patrick's Catholic Church. In August of 1998, a devastating fire consumed the old church and the organization was left homeless. After spending the better part of a year on clean up, debt settlement and reorganization, NCCA was gifted with the use of a small building at 125 N. Fourth St. in downtown Chesterton. This empty building has now been converted into the intimate, 50-seat theater, which has been a performance venue for many artists in the Northwest Indiana region.
click for details


Genesius Guild
First United Methodist Church
6635 Hohman Avenue, Hammond
(877) 724-7715
The Genesius Guild is a community theatre troupe based in Hammond, Indiana. The Guild currently utilizes the facilities in the First United Methodist Church of Hammond. The Guild was founded in 1984 as an outgrowth of the summer Vacation Bible School at First United Methodist Church. Our name is taken from Saint Genesius, the Patron Saint of Actors.


Hammond Academy for the Performing Arts
6915 Grand Avenue, Hammond
(219) 989-7316 x 1889
The Hammond Academy for the Performing Arts (HAPA) is an institution of rigorous
programs committed to artistic and academic excellence.
click for details


Hammond Community Theatre
P.O. Box 394, Hammond
(219) 852-0848
Bringing theatre to the community!
click for details


Highland Theatre Company of HHS
9135 Erie Street, Highland
Highland Theatre Company is the student-run theatre organization of Highland High School.
click for details


Improductions, LLC
773-828-9117
A company founded to help push do-it-yourself productions in the Chicagoland area. This company is together as a place where people who produce their own theatre productions find skills and resources to help make their dreams a reality. Whether it’s team management, audio/video production, theatrical instruction, or graphic art production, we have the ability to help anyone seeking expertise and experience in putting the best production possible forward.
click for details


Munster Theatre Company
8808 Columbia Avenue, Munster
(219) 838-3200
The fully handi-cap accessible facility features an over 1000-seat theater, a fully functional proscenium stage with counter-weight fly system, shop, four dressing rooms, make-up room, DMX 512 lighting system and digitally-tuned sound system.
click for details


Seedlings Theatre
(219) 281-2829
We are planting the arts across Northwest Indiana and Chicagoland. We are inclusive in every sense, welcoming seasoned, first-time, and non-traditional actors, directors, designers, technicians, volunteers, and audience members to engage with the performing arts in new ways. Our productions inspire growth, engage discussion, and enrich the community.
click for details


Valparaiso Theatrical Company
1507 Glendale Blvd., Valparaiso
(219) 309-6794
The Valparaiso Theatrical Company is a non-profit group meant to focus on providing fund-raising opportunities for other non-profit organizations. The company’s performances have taken them to many venues. The theater is currently looking for a place to perform on a regular basis in the Porter County area until which time we find a permanent home for our performances in Valparaiso, Indiana.
click for details

 

- Looking for a fishing spot? Northwest Indiana has numerous lakes, ponds and creeks where you can cast a line.

LAKE COUNTY

Centennial Park- 900 N Centennial Dr., Munster

Cedar Lake- 2 miles east of US 41 at Cline Avenue in Cedar Lake (fishing by boat only)

Cedar Lake Chamber of Commerce Welcome Center- 7925 Lake Shore Drive, Cedar Lake

Deep River County Park- 9410 Old Lincoln Highway, Hobart

Fancher Lake- Lake County Fairgrounds, 889 S Court St., Crown Point

Grand Boulevard Lake- Grand Blvd and Marquette Rd Near Central Ave., Lake Station

Lake Etta- 4801 West 29th Avenue, Gary

Lake George- 111 E Old Ridge Rd., Hobart

Lake Hills Park- 8640 Lake Hills Dr., St. John

Lemon Lake- 6322 W. 133rd Avenue , Crown Point

Oak Ridge Prairie- 301 South Colfax Street, Griffith

Prairie West Park- 9359 West Oakridge Dr., St. John

Robinson Lake- 5250 Liverpool Rd, Hobart

Stoney Run County Park- 142nd and Union Street, Leroy

Three Rivers County Park- 2800 Colorado Street, Lake Station

Wolf Lake- 2324 Calumet Ave., Hammond


LAPORTE COUNTY

Bluhm County Park- 3855 South 1100 West, Westville

Clear Lake- From US 35 / 39, north 1 mile on Truesdale Avenue, then 0.25 miles east in LaPorte

Creek Ridge County Park- 7943 West 400 North, Michigan City

Fish Lake- Off SR 4, 3.5 miles east of SR 104

Fox Memorial Park- Fox Park Drive & Truesdell Avenue in LaPorte

Hog Lake- 2.5 miles north of Rolling Prairie on CR 700 North

Kankakee River- Off River Road, 2 miles south of Hupp Road at Kingsbury FWA

Luhr County Park- 3178 South County Road 150 West, LaPorte

Pine & Stone Lakes- LaPorte, off Lake Shore Drive

Red Mill County Park- 0185 South Homlesville Road, LaPorte

Soldiers Memorial Park- Grangemouth Road & Waverly road in LaPorte

Tamarack Lake- At Kingsbury FWA


PORTER COUNTY

Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve- 2401 Village Point, Chesterton

Countryside Park- 5250 US Highway 6, Portage

Burns Ditch- Portage Marina, 0.25 mi. S of US 12 off SR 249

Flint Lake- 2 miles outside of Valparaiso (Fishing by boat only)

Indian Springs Park (small pond)- West of Fire Department / Public Works Building at 550 Beam Street in Porter

Lake Charles Park (small pond)- Washington & Vine Streets in Porter

Long Lake- 1 mile north of Valparaiso on West Long Lake Drive

Loomis Lake- Rogers Lakewood Park, 4 miles north of Valparaiso on Campbell Road

Grand Kankakee Marsh- 21690 Range Line Road, Hebron

Salt Creek at Imagination Glen County Park- 2275 McCool Rd, Portage

 

- Top 20 Outdoor Dining Spots in the Dunes
published by Dig the Dunes


BEVERLY SHORES

Bartlett’s Gourmet Grill
click for details


CHESTERTON

Duneland Pizza
click for details

Lemon Tree
click for details

Lucrezia (there's a second location in Crown Point)
click for details


LA PORTE

Bistro on the Greens
click for details


MICHIANA SHORES

Stop 50 Wood Fired Pizzeria
click for details


MICHIGAN CITY

Bridges
click for details

Fiddlehead
click for details

Fire & Water (pictured above)
click for details

Overboard at the Marina
click for details

Tree House Cafe
click for details


MILLER

Wells Street Beach
click for details


NEW BUFFALO

Bentwood Tavern
click for details

Brewster’s
click for details

Casey’s
click for details

Stray Dog
click for details


PORTAGE

Bulldog on the Lake
click for details

Latitudes at Marina Shores
click for details


PORTER

Wagners Ribs
click for details


SAWYER

Greenbush
click for details


VALPARAISO

Sage
click for details


click for details

 

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Daily!

$5*/person til 5p (Trainers/Coaches $10*)

$10* 5p- close & on Sat/Sun 9a-2p (Sparta Sports Org League players & coaches $5 anytime)

See "Today's Schedule" for availability, click for details

Batting cages included when not reserved

Knockerballs Available $10 additional/person

*Annual Sparta Member/Registration required
($20 Individual/$40 Family) starting Nov 1st. Non-Member add $5. Make sure to upload your photo to your profile to have your member card printed! & Try the MemberMe+ available on your smartphone!

Sparta Dome

Sparta Dome 219.224.3663 info@spartadome.com

- CHECK BACK SOON!

Garage Sales Are Listed In Date Order!

 

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Albanese Candy
(855) 272-3227
5441 East Lincoln Highway
Merrillville, Indiana 46410

Factory Tours, Chocolate Waterfall, Candy, Tons of Gummies, and more!
click for details

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Barker Mansion

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Bellaboo's

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Brewery Trail

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Broken Wagon Bison

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Buckley Homestead

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Carmelite Shrine

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Cedar Lake Historical Museum

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Century of Progress Homes

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Challenger Learning Center

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Community Veterans Memorial

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County Line Orchard

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Cruises on the Lake

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Fair Oaks Farm

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Friendship Botanic Gardens

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Gabis Arboretum

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Gibson Woods Nature Preserve

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Historic Lake County Courthouse

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Hoosier Bat

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Indiana Dunes

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Indiana Welcome Center

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Kankakee Sands Bison

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Marquette Park

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Mascott Hall of Fame

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Pierogi Fest

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South Shore Civil War Memorial Trail

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The Shrine Of Christ's Passion

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Vintage Baseball Games & Deep River County Park

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WhoaZone at Whihala Beach

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Wolf Lake

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- The Work as Worship Retreat in Northwest Indiana is a local simulcast produced by RightNow Media & originates live from Dallas, TX. The Retreat brings together thousands of Christian business professionals from around the world to hear speakers like Jon Acuff (New York Times Bestselling Author), Steve Green (President of Hobby Lobby), and Megan Alexander (Correspondent at Inside Edition) & more explore the sacred connection between faith and work. For Christians who also happen to be business professionals, faith and work don’t often intersect. The connection between faith and work is not always obvious, but it is a God-given calling to make them connect. What if all Christians saw work as something holy? And what if work was actually an opportunity to worship God? The Bible is full of examples of people living their daily lives on an eternal mission, weaving together their faith and work in their everyday lives. Like the men and women of the Bible, God designed Christians to worship AND work together. Hillside Community Church is one of dozens of churches hosting a local simulcast site across the Chicagoland area in Illinois and Indiana, and is centrally located in Lake County, Indiana. Registration is $30 and includes morning refreshments and free lunch. Ticket website: click for details

Hillside Community Church

Pastor Tony Suitor 219.663.0312 info@hillsidecrownpoint.org

- Please join us for an evening of dinner and dancing on us as we celebrate 25 years of serving the youth and communities of Northwest Indiana. Meet our board members, staff, past program alumni and enjoy a brief but powerful video. The event is free but you must register at our Eventbrite link. (Click website)

Andorra Banquets

Crystal 219.254.2678 crystal@positiveteenhealth.org

- You don't have to travel to Las Vegas for quality casinos. Visit one these locations in Northwest Indiana:

AMERISTAR CASINO
777 Ameristar Boulevard, East Chicago
219-378-3000
With 56,000 square feet of gaming space on four levels, more than 1,750 slots and video poker machines, 58 table games and a dedicated baccarat room, we offer amazing gaming variety. Plus, guests enjoy our 288-room luxury hotel, which boasts a variety of amenities, our five exceptionally appetizing restaurants and a gift shop that's a destination it its own right. Located just 25 miles from downtown Chicago and conveniently located only minutes away from major interstates 90 and 80/94, we're easy to reach. And our 1,974-space covered parking garage makes it easy to stay.
click for details


BLUE CHIP CASINO, HOTEL & SPA
777 Blue Chip Drive, Michigan City
219-879-7711
We offer 65,000 square feet of gaming on a single luxurious and spacious level, with 44 table games, eight live poker room tables and more than 1,700 slots. Open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. Dine in our of our five restaurants on site, or enjoy live entertainment from local bands to A-list performers. Blue Chip also has a 10,000-square-foot spa, salon and fitness center and a hotel with 486 luxurious rooms and suites.
click for details


FOUR WINDS
11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo, Michigan
866-494-6371
Less than an hour's drive from Downtown Chicago, on the shores of Lake Michigan, Four Winds New Buffalo delivers an unparalleled experience of indulgence, exhilaration and endless winning possibilities.
Prepare to be swept up in the excitement as you experience our action-packed games, sizzling nightlife and one-of-a-kind entertainment. Lose yourself in our luxurious hotel, enjoy headliner entertainment, indulge in our sensational restaurants including southwest Michigan's only Hard Rock Cafe, and bask in the beautiful Lake Michigan setting while experiencing the region's most attentive service.
click for details


HORSESHOE CASINO HAMMOND
777 Casino Center Drive, Hammond
866-711-7463
Horseshoe Casino Hammond is open daily 24 hours. The casino's 108,200 square foot gaming space features 3,000 gaming machines and 189 table and poker games. The property has award-winning restaurants and entertainment at The Venue.
click for details


MAJESTIC STAR CASINO AND HOTEL
One Buffington Harbor Drive, Gary
888-225-8259
Enjoy 6 floors of gaming action at Majestic Star Casino! We’re bringing the ‘Win’ to the Windy City! Located just 35 minutes from Downtown Chicago, our casino features a huge selection of gaming options 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
You can also enjoy in a wide variety of dining options, including our award winning Steakhouse. With the latest slots and wide array of table games, Majestic Star has something for everybody! Plus enjoy all your favorite games on our new non-smoking level.
click for details

 

- We provide everything you need from the most popular games played on our state-of-the-art turf with "Party Coaches" to lead the way.

All of our party packages end with 30 minutes in our party area once the games have ended and most of the packages include pizza, plates, drinks, napkins and
event invitations to send out prior to the party!

We can accommodate an unlimited amount of parties, including:
birthday parties, team parties, family reunions, graduations,
corporate team building, and customer appreciation events.

Party Games!
*Dodgeball
*Kickball
*Wiffleball
*Flag Football
*Soccer
*Volleyball
*Capture the Flag and more!

SPARTA SPORTS PARTY
o Party guests will play a series of mini games of the Birthday
Child’s choice ran by Sparta Dome Party Coordinators.

 GLOW IN THE DARK PARTY
o Lights are out for this party! Party guests will enjoy a variety
of games with glow in the dark capability chosen by the
Birthday Child. Each child will receive a glow stick and
bracelet to stand out. Everyone is encouraged to wear neon
and florescent to enhance their experience.

 KNOCKERBALL PARTY
o Knockerball parties are unlike any other party you’ve ever
had! Jump inside our inflatable balls and have fun knocking
your friends down. Sparta Dome Party Coordinators will
conduct a series of fun Knockerball games.

Interested in hosting an event or party at the Sparta Dome that does not fall
under our party descriptions? Contact us!

For more information or questions on reservations, please contact: cathy@spartadome.com or call 219.224.3663

Sparta Dome

Cathy Witte 219.224.3663 cathy@spartadome.com

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Horseshoe Casino has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana since 2011, making our team legendary! Horseshoe Casino offers the best careers in the casino and hospitality industry. As part of Caesars Entertainment, you just can’t beat our winning combination.

Currently hiring for the following positions:
• Banquet Server (On Call)
• Beverage Server (Part-time)
• Cleaning Services Attendant (Full-time)
• Banquet Lead Cook (Full-time)
• Buffet Host (Part-time)
• EDR Cook (Full-time)
• Main Production Cook (Full-time)
• Noodle Bar Cook (Full-time)
• Pastry Cook (Full-time)
• Steakhouse Cook (Full-time)
• The Eatery Cook (Full-time)
• Count Room Representative (Full-time)
• Poker Dealer (Part-time/On Call)
• Poker Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)
• Security Ambassador (Full-time)
• SDS Administrator (Full-time)
• Slot Technician (Full-time)
• Table Games Dealer (Full-time/Part-time/On Call)
• Table Games Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)

To view job openings and apply:
CAESARSJOBS.COM, click for details
*Location: Hammond

Horseshoe Casino Hammond

Melissa Jones, Recruitment Specialist morr@caesars.com

- Come experience both the historic and modern-day journey of Soldier Field, dedicated to the men and women of the armed services and home of the Chicago Bears. Soldier Field is also host to world class concerts, college football, international soccer & rugby along with many other timeless events.

We invite you for a behind the scenes tour that includes the South Courtyard, Doughboy Statue, Field, Visitor’s Locker Room, Skyline Suite, and Colonnades. Start the tour with a historical video that takes you back to the years of Soldier Field’s Golden Age.

To purchase tickets, click for details

Soldier Field

Soldier Field 312.235.7000

- We've been busy planning our next pop-up experience, and this one is, by far, our most ambitious yet. We'll be turning the bar into a fantasy dreamscape! With dragons, thrones and epic fantasy.We're also partnering with Ommegang brewery, and will have limited quantities of their exclusive Arbor Gold and Fire & Blood brews on tap and plenty wine and mead and a signature Dothaquiri.

For the first time EVER, we're introducing a VIP ticket package for this pop-up! It's completely optional, and admission is still free, but $20 gets you a pint of either mead or one of our Ommegang brews in a keepsake goblet, a commemorative pin or print, and the ability to cut the line at entry to get out of the cold faster! It's a perfect holiday gift for the fantasy fan in your life.

#Fantasy #Winter #popup #popupbar #chicagopopup

Replay Lincoln Park

Replay Lincoln Park 773.665.5660

- Weekend Performances: February 15 Through March 3, 2019.

"Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the rousing fairy tale adventures of ogre turned likely hero that is coming to the Opera House stage to kick of our 2019 season. This Tony Award winning musical based on the Oscar Award winning Dreamworks Animation film features a wise cracking Donkey, a feisty princess, a short-tempered villain, a cookie with an attitude, and dozens of other fairy tale misfits that stir up muddled mayhem that calls for a real hero.

There's more than meets the ears in this ogre-sized, sidesplitting show that the whole family will love!

Admission Information
Adults: $21.00
Seniors - Students - Military: $18.00
Processing Fee Applied At Checkout

For tickets and more information, click for details

Memorial Opera House

Memorial Opera House Box Office 219.548.9137

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Are you ready to try something different?

Are you ready to challenge yourself?

Come to Sunset Hill on Saturday mornings to train for the Foot Pursuit 5K (held on Saturday, March 2nd).

You will be coached by a RRCA certified running coach and an experienced trail runner and we will have many seasoned "guest runners" joining us as well.
Training will take place on the trails at Sunset Hill Farm County Park on Saturday mornings (January 5th to February 23rd) from 8:30-9:30am.
Program fee includes race registration, weekly training schedule and emails, a private Facebook group and workout tips. After we have completed our last training run on a hard 5K trail course, we'll celebrate our accomplishments with breakfast on February 23rd. No prior running experience is necessary.

The Foot Pursuit 5K is put on by the Porter County Sheriffs Dept. Proceeds benefit the Porter County Chapter of the American Red Cross and The Timothy Hecht Scholarship Fun. If you have any questions please email bkreiger@porterco.org

Sunset Hill Farm County Park

B. Kreiger bkreiger@porterco.org

- Brookfield Zoo offers free admission to all guests on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays through February 28, 2019. Free Days are presented by Metro by T-Mobile.

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo 708.688.8000

- Baby & Me Time is a 1/2 hour program which includes songs, stories, and sensory play for babies 0 to 23 months and their caregiver at the Merrillville library. You must register to attend this program.

Merrillville Public Library

Youth Services 2197693541ext360 juvenile@lcplin.org

- Meet local experts and scientists who are conducting research in the national park. Examine the knowledge gained by researchers during a presentation on their work and a short hike afterward.

The Indiana Dunes Visitor Center is located at 1215 North State Road 49, about one mile north of Interstate 94. For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-395-1882 or click for details

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Bunco Fundraiser for Every Child Ministries (click for details) Sat., Feb. 23 from 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Kouts Christian Church, Kouts, IN. Doors open at 5:30. Bunco, a meal, raffle baskets & an evening full of fun! $25/person. Ages 12 and over.
Registration open through Thu., Feb. 21 at click for details

Kouts Christian Church

Sandi Enyeart 219.996.4201 info@ecmafrica.org

- The Indiana Dunes Birding Festival will be kicking off the upcoming spring migration with it's annual fine art poster release party on Saturday, February 23. The event takes place in the Pub at Gelsosomo's at 6pm. In addition to the annual fine art unveiling by artist Kristina Knowski, festival prizes and giveaways will take place. Festival staff will be on hand to help folks wishing to register for the May festival, which goes online the next morning.

 

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Sat. Feb 23rd 8pm
Bank Shots Bar & Grill
3285 Glenwood Dyer Rd, Lynwood, IL 60411

Domestic violence is a very serious issue that remains very prevalent in the United States. Places like Hammond’s Haven House provide emergency shelter for victims and their dependents. To raise funds to help the facility continue to provide safe housing the Illiana Derby Dames and the Illiana Women’s Rugby Club the Banshees are throwing a karaoke competition fundraiser. They are asking for either a $5 donation at the door or to provide some items from the Haven House wish list.
Voting will be determined by applause! So come out and show your support!

Event also includes drink specials and Guest bartenders from each club!
DJ services will be donated by "DJ C" (708-935-7008)

Donation items of need include: Conditioner, Deodorant, Washcloths, Bleach, Bathroom cleaning supplies, Toilet paper, Paper towels, Kitchen towels, Lotion, Notebooks, Folders, Toothpaste, Toothbrushes, Diapers - all 3-6, New toys, New socks (for adults and children), Baby wipes, Women's undergarments, Female hygiene products, Walmart Gift Cards for medicine and shoes

For more info about joining:

Rugby: click for details
Derby: click for details

#IllianaRugby #Derby #BansheeRugby #HavenHouse #StopDomesticViolence #PlayRugby #IllianaDerby #youdownwithIDD #TackleLikeABanshee #IDD #WomenInSports

Haven House: click for details

Other Event postings:
Facebook: click for details
Event Bright: click for details

Bank Shots Bar and Grill

Illiana Rugby 815.735.5499 IllianawomensRugby@gmail.com

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- Join fellow astronomy lovers and enjoy our night sky from one of the darkest spots in Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Members from the Chicago Astronomical Society, Michiana Astronomical Society, and Calumet Astronomical Society will be sharing their telescopes as they introduce the night skies to visitors at the national lakeshore’s Kemil Beach IN parking lot. This is an outdoor program, so please dress for the weather.

During this month’s stargazing program, the Milky Way stretches across the sky from southwest to northeast. The Andromeda Galaxy and companions are high up. The Double Cluster in Perseus is visible with color contrasting stars. The Stargazing Program is presented on the third Saturday of each month throughout the year. Times vary each month with the season.

The Kemil Beach parking lot is located one mile north of U.S. Highway 12 on East State Park Road (300E). For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-395-1882 or click for details

Kemil Beach

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Weekend Performances: February 15 Through March 3, 2019.

"Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the rousing fairy tale adventures of ogre turned likely hero that is coming to the Opera House stage to kick of our 2019 season. This Tony Award winning musical based on the Oscar Award winning Dreamworks Animation film features a wise cracking Donkey, a feisty princess, a short-tempered villain, a cookie with an attitude, and dozens of other fairy tale misfits that stir up muddled mayhem that calls for a real hero.

There's more than meets the ears in this ogre-sized, sidesplitting show that the whole family will love!

Admission Information
Adults: $21.00
Seniors - Students - Military: $18.00
Processing Fee Applied At Checkout

For tickets and more information, click for details

Memorial Opera House

Memorial Opera House Box Office 219.548.9137

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- Come experience beautiful Bluhm County Park in Westivlle, Indiana. Trails maybe muddy, wet or snowy so come prepare for the challenge. Course is three loops around the park with one aid station you hit twice. If you need more aid please carry a hydration pack. This race is low key all runners receive a winter and gloves and a finisher's medal. You have 4 hours and 30 minutes to complete the course. This race is part of the Crazy Legs Race Series click for details

Bluhm County Park

- Brookfield Zoo offers free admission to all guests on Saturdays, Sundays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays through February 28, 2019. Free Days are presented by Metro by T-Mobile.

Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo 708.688.8000

- Join Kate on Sunday morning for a 1 hour yoga session from 10-11am.


Individual class price is $10.

To register, click for details

Brincka Cross Gardens

Porter County Parks 219.465.3586

- Join a ranger for a hike through Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore’s exceptional Miller Woods, starting from the Paul H. Douglas Center. The hike is spectacular in its varied habitats including globally rare black oak savanna, interdunal ponds, wetlands, and towering sand dunes which offer incredible views of Lake Michigan and Chicago. Hike lengths can vary from a half-mile to just over three miles. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes and bring water, and insect repellent during the warmer seasons.

The Paul H Douglas Center for Environmental Education is located in the western portion of the national lakeshore at 100 North Lake Street, about one mile north of U.S. Highway 12.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-395-1882 or click for details

Paul H. Douglas Center

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Join a ranger in the Visitor Center's theater for a screening of a national park or outdoor-related documentary.

Meet at the Indiana Dunes Visitor Center located at 1215 N. State Road 49 just south of the intersection of 49 and U.S. 20 in Porter, Indiana. For more information about this program or other activities at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, contact the information desk at 219-395-1882 or click for details

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Join a ranger in the Douglas Center's theatre for a screening of a national park or outdoor-related documentary.

The Paul H Douglas Center for Environmental Education is located in the western portion of the national lakeshore at 100 North Lake Street, about one mile north of U.S. Highway 12.

For more information on this or other programs at Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, call 219-395-1882 or click for details

Paul H. Douglas Center

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore 219.395.1882

- Escape the cold and test your knowledge at a Trivia Competition fundraiser to be hosted by St. Elizabeth Orthodox Church in Chesterton, Indiana.

Tickets are $12 per person and both individuals and teams are welcome. A cash prize will be awarded to the 1st place table. Doors to the event open at 4:00 p.m., with the trivia competition kicking off at 4:30 p.m.

Spirits, food and dessert will be available, and a basket raffle will also be held.

Additional questions? Contact Lori at 219.628.1044
Tickets can be purchased online by clicking on the detail link below:
click for details

Moose Lodge

Lori 219.628.1044

- There is so much to do in Northwest Indiana! Some activities are seasonal and others are available year-round. Please check back to see new events added throughout the year!

YEAR-ROUND

Bowling and Indoor Skating
click for details

Breweries and Wineries
click for details

Casinos
click for details

Dog Parks
click for details

Family Fun Centers
click for details

Live Entertainment Venues
click for details

Museums and Tours
click for details

Parks and Gardens
click for details

Theaters
click for details

Walk, Bike, Skate or Run- Trails
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SPRING & SUMMER

49er Drive-In Theatre
click for details

Car Shows
click for details

Concerts in the Park
click for details

Farmers Markets
click for details

Festivals
click for details

Fireworks
click for details

Garage Sales
click for details

Garden Walks
click for details

Golfing
click for details

Horseback Riding
click for details

Movies in the Park
click for details

Public Beaches
click for details

Public Pools and Splash Pads
click for details

Blueberry Picking
click for details

Summer Sporting Events
click for details

Sail, Paddle, Float or Ride- Water Recreation
click for details

Strawberry Picking
click for details

Great Fishing Spots
click for details

Paintball and Laser Tag
click for details

Runs / Races / Walks
click for details

Waterparks
click for details
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINTER

Sledding
click for details

Ice Skating
click for details

 

- BREN-MARK WINDOW CLEANING
Lake, Porter, LaPorte Counties

PART-TIME AND FULL-TIME OPPORTUNITIES
Work 15-40+ hours per week. Monday-Friday availability between 6am-6pm. Occasional Saturdays.

No experience? No problem! We Will Train You!

We are hiring 10+ New Window Cleaners in the next year. Our company has grown every year we have been in business, 18 years and counting. Now we are adding new, cutting-edge technology in both window and gutter cleaning. Glass and gutters that were once unreachable can now be done more efficiently and safely. This will open up new opportunities without having to travel outside of our service area. Be part of our growing company and apply today!

Starting at $10/hour earning up to $16/hr after 90 days of Training.

• We provide complete training, equipment, uniforms
• Weekly performance bonuses!
• Direct Deposit
• Flexible Schedule--College students welcome!!!
• Year Round Work
• Appreciation for a Job Well Done
• FREE Keurig beverages, Gatorade, Fully Stocked Candy Bowl
• Monthly Breakfasts to celebrate Birthdays/Anniversaries
• Mileage Reimbursement

Required: Valid Driver's License, Vehicle to drive to jobsites, and Current Proof of Car Insurance

For the complete job description and to apply with our one page application.
click for details

 

Bren-Mark Window Cleaning 219.364.1118 customerservice@bren-mark.com

- Every Sunday, Chicago Magic Lounge relaxes its age restriction and opens the Blackstone Cabaret for a magic matinee suitable for younger ages. This show brings back the era of bar magic, bringing out the child in every adult. However, on Sundays, the Chicago Magic Lounge features a family-friendly magician that will fill both the adults and children full of wonder. This is a great post-brunch activity with many restaurants nearby.

To purchase tickets, click for details

Chicago Magic Lounge

Chicago Magic Lounge 312.366.4500

- Weekend Performances: February 15 Through March 3, 2019.

"Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek...." And thus begins the rousing fairy tale adventures of ogre turned likely hero that is coming to the Opera House stage to kick of our 2019 season. This Tony Award winning musical based on the Oscar Award winning Dreamworks Animation film features a wise cracking Donkey, a feisty princess, a short-tempered villain, a cookie with an attitude, and dozens of other fairy tale misfits that stir up muddled mayhem that calls for a real hero.

There's more than meets the ears in this ogre-sized, sidesplitting show that the whole family will love!

Admission Information
Adults: $21.00
Seniors - Students - Military: $18.00
Processing Fee Applied At Checkout

For tickets and more information, click for details

Memorial Opera House

Memorial Opera House Box Office 219.548.9137

- Our 10th annual dinner and live/silent auction fundraiser. Event takes place on Friday April 26th, 2019 at the Avalon Banquet Center 3550 E Lincoln Highway Merrillville, Indiana. Ticket sales start Sunday February 24th, 2019. Tickets are $40.00 per person. To order tickets or for more info please contact anoab@trinitycp.org or call (219) 663-1578 or on the web trinitycp.org/auction.

Avalon Banquet Center

ANOAB committee 219.663.1578 anoab@trinitycp.org

- Looking for something to do this weekend? Check out our list of things to do in Northwest Indiana February 22- February 24.

BEVERLY SHORES

Stargazing Through Telescopes- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CEDAR LAKE

Hanover Central HS Musical in Cedar Lake- February 24
click for details

Moto on Ice- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CHESTERTON

Trivia Competition- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

CROWN POINT

18th Annual Midwest Oldschool BMX Show & Swap- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

MICHIGAN CITY

Maple Sugar Time Demonstration at Friendship Botanic Gardens- February 24
click for details

Yoga at Brincka Cross Gardens- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

PORTER

Science in the National Lakeshore- February 23
click for details

*********************************************************************************

SCHERERVILLE

Indoor Beer Festival at Patrician Banquet- February 23
click for details

4th Annual Bridal Bliss Wedding Expo- February 24
click for details

*********************************************************************************

Fun Things To Do Around NWI All Year Long!
click for details

 

- We post job openings every week!

Associate Client Advisor
Centier Bank, Merrillville

The Associate Client Advisor (ACA) will begin the process of learning the Financial Services business, learn and develop sales skills, and be provided with a learning environment to study and potentially pass all required licensing exams. This person is responsible for contacting potential customers and scheduling appointments to discuss financial services. For the complete job description, qualification and/or to apply, click for details

(Posted: February 17, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Consumer Card and Loan Product Manager
Centier Bank, Merrillville

The Consumer Card and Loan Product Manager will be responsible for ensuring the competitiveness and awareness of Centier’s consumer loan products with particular emphasis on credit card products. Responsibilities include the management of assigned product(s); market research; financial analysis; product planning and coordination of sales and marketing strategies. For the complete job description and/or to apply, click for details

(Posted: February 17, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

TEAM MEMBER
Dan's Pierogies, Highland

We are looking for a responsible individual who can work in a fast pace environment. Great team player. Has flexible hours. Experience is a plus. This position is part-time. Any questions please ask. Apply in person. 2945 Jewett Ave, Highland.

(Posted: February 15, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

HIRING EVENT
Flex N Gate, Wicker Park Highland

February 28, 9a-12. For more information, click for details

(Posted: February 15, 2019)
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General Labor (Packer)
Calumet Carton, South Holland IL

We are looking to fill multiple full-time entry-level positions with hard-working reliable individuals who can accurately count, inspect and pack folded cartons and rigid mailing envelopes into corrugated boxes. Candidates must have a minimum of two years manufacturing experience, can work any production shift, can work overtime including Saturdays, can stand continuously 8-12 hours and have reliable transportation. Benefits include paid holidays, subsidized medical, dental and vision insurance and 401K. For a full job description, requirements and to apply, click for details

(Posted: February 14, 2019)
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FURNANCE OPERATOR
East Lake Metals, Whiting

Full Time. Must have molten metal & forklift experience. Bilingual a plus.
Send resumes to: Whiting Metals PO Box 482 Whiting, IN 46394 or jtemple@whitingmetals.com.

(Posted: February 11, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONALS
In-Pact, Crown Point

In-Pact is looking for dedicated and hard-working people to work as Direct Support Professional. You will be helping people with developmental disabilities with daily living skills, community involvement and leisure activities. We have several openings in Lake and Porter County. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent, good work ethic and a desire to help others. Must have a valid driver’s license and a clear criminal history. We offer opportunities for growth, flexible schedules and a good benefit package for F-T employees. If you’re ready to join a team doing important and interesting work, apply at 12300 Marshall St., Crown Point, IN. 46307 or click for details

(Posted: February 11, 2019)
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CLEANING CREW
World Gym-Great Lakes, Schererville

Do you love to clean? This position supports World Gym-Great Lakes in providing a clean and safe environment for its staff and members. The Cleaning Crew will maintain, clean and sanitize all areas, including such duties as mopping, dusting, and trash removal. May complete duties related to grounds keeping and other related responsibilities.

Responsibilities and Duties:

Ensures that the gym is clean by completing all duties listed on the daily schedule and maintains upkeep of all areas and equipment. May perform wet and dust mopping, dusting, trash removal, recycling, window washing, painting, vacuuming, seasonal activities, and general cleaning. Records and reports all needed repairs. Safeguards building and property security during shift and reports incidents and hazardous conditions to General Manager. Work at World Gym-Cedar Lake location up to two days per week.
Qualifications: 1-2 years or more of related experience; physical fitness industry experience is a plus. Ability to read and interpret instructions, procedures, manuals, and other documents. Understanding of cleaning compounds and chemicals, and their safe, efficient use. Must have reliable transportation.

Benefits: Fitness Club Membership (includes a family member), Flexible Work Hours, Big Discounts on Goods/Classes, Personal Training Discounts, Leadership and Career Opportunities, Cash Bonuses, and Fun Healthy /Fit Events.

Come in and fill out an application at 2300 Cline Ave Schererville or send a resume to hiring.wggl@worldgym.com.

(Posted: February 11, 2019)
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LIMO, SEDAN, AND BUS DRIVERS!
All Around Limousine & Party Bus Service

Now hiring part-time limo, sedan, and bus drivers! Must be professional, timely, and responsible. Make up to $600/week if you want to accept the runs. Indiana "for hire endorsement" or current PPL is a must - CDL required to drive 15 + passenger vehicles. We need drivers that can work Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Must be able to lift 40-50lb pieces of luggage. If interested call 219-980-3636. We will need a copy of your license, DOT physical, and copy of driving history. click for details

(Posted: February 10, 2019)
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ARCHITECT/ARCHITECTURAL DESIGNER
JMA Architects, South Holland, Illinois

JMA is looking to hire an architect/architectural designer with 5-7 years of experience in the healthcare field. The ideal candidate will not only have the required medical experience, but also be proficient in AutoCAD, Revit, and the Microsoft Office Suite. Originating in 1954, JMA is a medium size architectural design and construction management firm specializing in non-residential architecture. We offer a highly competitive salary, health and life insurance, IRA plan, and a friendly work environment. Please send all resumes to Allison Maciejewski at allison@jmaarchitects.com.

(Posted: February 8, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Now Hiring!
Corky’s Dogg House, Cedar Lake

Looking for a responsible person for small family owned business. Must be friendly and sociable. Full time, cook, cashier, food prep. Apply @ 12421 Wicker Ave. Cedar Lake. 219-374-9332.

(Posted: February 8, 2019)
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NOW HIRING!
Horseshoe Casino, Hammond

BECOME PART OF OUR LEGENDARY TEAM AND RECEIVE LEGENDARY PERKS! Horseshoe Casino has been voted as one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana since 2011, making our team legendary! Horseshoe Casino offers the best careers in the casino and hospitality industry. As part of Caesars Entertainment, you just can’t beat our winning combination.

Currently hiring for the following positions:

* Banquet Server (On Call)
* Beverage Server (Part-time)
* Cleaning Services Attendant (Full-time)
* Banquet Lead Cook (Full-time)
* Buffet Host (Part-time)
* EDR Cook (Full-time)
* Main Production Cook (Full-time)
* Noodle Bar Cook (Full-time)
* Pastry Cook (Full-time)
* Steakhouse Cook (Full-time)
* The Eatery Cook (Full-time)
* Count Room Representative (Full-time)
* Poker Dealer (Part-time/On Call)
* Poker Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)
* Security Ambassador (Full-time)
* SDS Administrator (Full-time)
* Slot Technician (Full-time)
* Table Games Dealer (Full-time/Part-time/On Call)
* Table Games Dual Rate Supervisor (Full-time)

To view job openings and apply, click for details

*Location: Hammond

(Posted: February 8, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

VIOLIN INSTRUCTORS & PIANO INSTRUCTORS
HGS Music, Crown Point or Highland

**Accepting resumes from college-students through seasoned musicians and educators.**
A successful candidate will have these qualities:
- proficiency on their instrument
- comfortable with all ages and personalities
- able to work 1-2 weeknights, and/or Saturday mornings
- comfortable in a professional environment

For more information about our school, click for details

Please be prepared to play two pieces for us during an interview.
Please EMAIL only. NO phone calls. Send resume or detailed info to info@hgsmusic.net. We look forward to hearing from you!

(Posted: February 8, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

WINDOW CLEANERS
BREN-MARK Window Cleaning...Lake, Porter, LaPorte Counties

FULL-TIME & PART-TIME OPPORTUNITIES

Starting at $10 to $18/hour after 90 days of Training.

Work 25-40+ hours per week. Monday-Friday availability between 6am-6pm. Occasional Saturdays.

No experience? No problem! We Will Train You!

Our company has grown every year we have been in business, 19 years and counting. Now we are adding new, cutting-edge technology in both window and gutter cleaning. Glass and gutters that were once unreachable can now be done more efficiently and safely. This will open up new opportunities without having to travel outside of our service area. Be part of our growing company and apply today!

• We provide complete training, equipment, uniforms
• Weekly performance bonuses!
• Direct Deposit
• Flexible Schedule--College students welcome!!!
• Year-Round Work
• Appreciation for a Job Well Done
• FREE Keurig beverages, Gatorade, Fully Stocked Candy Bowl
• Monthly Breakfasts to celebrate Birthdays/Anniversaries
• Mileage Reimbursement

Required: Valid Driver's License, Vehicle to drive to job site, and Current Proof of Car Insurance

For the complete job description and to apply with our one-page application, click for details

(Posted: February 8, 2019)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Teachers Wanted
Munster Parks and Recreation, Munster

Teachers wanted for Munster Parks and Recreation’s Summer Enrichment Program!
June 3—June 28, 2019. Our summer enrichment program provides hundreds of children
with fun and exciting ways to keep learning over the summer. Paid positions available in math, science, arts, reading, writing, music, language, history, cooking, coding, robotics, and more! Use your creativity to design the curriculum! No restrictions, just fun! (219) 836-7275.

(Posted: February 7, 2019)
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JOB FAIR
Serviscape, Michigan City

February 19 from 10a-2p. For more information, click for details

(Posted: February 7, 2019)
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NOW HIRING
Peoples Bank, Northwest Indiana

Peoples Bank has teller position available throughout Northwest Indiana. Qualified applicants need prior customer service and cash handling experience plus enjoy talking with people. Prior banking or retail experience is helpful. Responsibilities include acknowledging customers’ needs with suggestions of appropriate Bank’s products and services and processing financial transactions. Interested applicants may visit our website for more information. click for details

Email resumes to hr@ibankpeoples.com. Peoples is an Equal Opportunity Employer of women, minorities, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

(Posted: February 1, 2019)
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NOW HIRING
Centier Bank, Michigan City

Centier Bank is home to a unique tradition of service, we have a passion for service to each other and to our communities. We are currently accepting applications for Branch Manager, Assistant Branch manager and full and part time Universal Bankers for our new Michigan City location. For complete job descriptions, qualifications and/or to apply, click for details

(Posted: February 1, 2019)
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Director of Talent Management
Centier Bank, Merrillville

The Director of Talent Management will manage a team comprised of a Corporate Trainer, an LMS Administrator and an Instructional Design Team. This position is responsible for designing and executing a learning culture, overseeing the development of associates around the bank’s strategic objectives and division goals and needs, including the enhancement of core skills, business fundamentals, culture, motivation, team building, compliance and leadership development. Minimum Qualifications: 10+ years of leadership experience within Training or Organizational Development Master’s Degree in Organizational Development, Education, or comparable field. Learning Program Management, Instructional Design and Learning Management System experience. For a complete job description and/or to apply, click for details

(Posted: February 1, 2019)
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Senior Garden / Nursery Associate
Elzinga Farm & Greenhouse, Dyer

If you love working with flowers, getting a little dirty, fresh air and sunshine and a wonderful work environment, join our team at Elzinga Farm & Greenhouse in Dyer, IN. We are seeking an experienced garden associate to enrich our family-owned and operated seasonal greenhouse business.

Duties: Work with the owner and manager to plan, organize, direct, control, and coordinate activities of workers engaged in propagating, cultivating, and harvesting horticultural specialties, including annual and perennial flowers, and other plants.

Work with current manager to display and maximize presentation for retail sales. Oversee care and maintenance of all plants. Provide customer service to help customers plan their flower and/or vegetable gardens. Answer phone calls and customer questions regarding our products. Greet customers and make sales transactions. Follow all policies and procedures.

Skills needed:
Customer service strengths to represent a family-owned small business
Dedication to the detail of providing a high-end product
Deep knowledge to prune, water and care for plants
In-depth knowledge of annuals and perennials, vegetable and herb plants
Ability to identify diseased plants
Excellent teamwork skills
Good communication and coordination skills
The ability to assist customers with plant care questions and needs
This is a physical, outdoor position
2 years horticulture experience a plus
Salary based on experience

Send resume to elzingafarms@gmail.com or call or text 219-805-3254 for more information.

Elzinga Farm & Greenhouse - growing beautiful things since 1931

(Posted: January 31, 2019)
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SUMMER CAMP COUNSELOR
Munster Parks, Munster

Munster Parks and Recreation is now hiring for Summer Camp Counselor positions. Applicant must be over 18 and be able to work up to 8 hours/day, up to 40 hours/week for 10 weeks. Application must be able to facilitate group cooperation and have strong communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills to help decide, plan and initiate activities. Previous experience working with children required. To apply to this job posting, click for details. and download/fill out the Seasonal Application. Upon completion, send to jporento@munster.org or 1005 Ridge Road, Munster, IN 46321 by March 8.

(Posted: January 28, 2019)
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Check back with us regularly! We post job openings every Monday. New openings are added to the list as they come in, the most recent openings will be at the top of the list. Your job opening will be posted for three weeks.

If you are an employer or manager with a job opening, please send us a short job description (100 words or less), the town that the job is held, and the best way to apply for the position. Please email this information to Stacy Travis at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com. We accept up to 2 job openings at a time for free. If you would like to learn more about advertising an unlimited number of job openings every week, contact Stacy at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com.

Please note that beginning June 1, 2015, we will not be including job posts promoting direct sales businesses. If you would like to promote your direct sales business please feel free to email Stacy Travis at stacy.travis@nwi-townplanner.com for advertising pricing and information.

 

- Dolby Theatre, Hollywood and Highland Center, Los Angeles, CA. 91st annual Honoring film achievements of the previous year. Televised live on ABC, with Jimmy Kimmel scheduled to host.

 

- Come join the fun. Monday Nights Bingo Doors open at 5pm, Early Bird 6pm, Regular Games 7pm. Cash Prizes, Pull Tabs, Door Prize, Progressive Pots. Set up for regular games is $20.00. Patrician Banquets 410 E us Hwy 30 Schererville, IN. Enjoy the Patricians great food, an adult beverage all while supporting a really great cause(food and beverages at an additional cost). Call Jodi at 219-865-9600 for reservations or more information.

Patrician Banquets

Jodi Kobak 12198659600 admin@safetyvillage.us

- To register, click for details

Sunset Hill Farm County Park

Porter County Parks 219.465.3586

- Lets Go Sledding!

BEECHER, IL:

Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve
Dutton Road, north of Goodenow Road., Beecher
Times: 8 a.m.-Sunset
For current sledding conditions call: 708.946.2216.
Inner tubes for sledding are available for rental at Plum Creek Nature Center for use on the sled hill at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve when conditions allow after December 1. Renters must be 18 years old and bring a valid driver's license or state ID. Tubes may be limited to one tube per license/ID. Tubes are rented until 3 p.m. and must be returned to the Nature Center by 4 p.m.
Activity Fee: $2/tube
click for details
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CHESTERTON:

Indiana Dunes State Park
1600 N. 25 E., Chesterton
219.926.1952
Adventure seekers can enjoy a thrilling 100-ft ride down Devil's Slide, the only location where sledding is permitted in the park. Hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing also are available on the 16 miles of trails along the lakeshore.
click for details
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CROWN POINT:

Lake County Fairgrounds
889 S Court St., Crown Point
219.663.3617
A longtime favorite among sledders, the hill at Fancher Lake offers fun for all ages.

Lemon Lake County Park
6322 W. 133rd Avenue, Crown Point
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Lemon Lake will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty. Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Call Lemon Lake at 219-663-7627 or the Lemon Lake Ski Rental building at 219-663-2418.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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DYER:

Northgate Park
Calumet Ave. at Harrison Place, Dyer
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GRIFFITH:

Oak Ridge Prairie County Park
301 S. Colfax Street, Griffith
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
The sledding hill at Oak Ridge Prairie will be open December 1 through March when adequate snow base allows. The gate fee is charged when a gatekeeper is on duty.
Call after 9 a.m. to see if the hill is open before you come out. Oak Ridge Prairie at 219-884-7238.
There are no rentals, so bring your own tube or plastic sled. No wooden or metal runner sleds or snowboards are allowed for safety purposes.
click for details
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HAMMOND:

Dowling Park
175th & Parrish Avenue, Hammond
click for details

Forsythe Park
119th Street and Calumet Avenue, Hammond
219.659.7678
Time: Dawn to dusk daily
Outdoor recreation isn’t only for the summer! Each winter, hundreds enjoy activities in and around the Hammond Port Authority properties.
click for details

Lost Marsh Golf Course
1001 129th St., Hammond
219.932.4653
click for details
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LAPORTE:

Red Mill County Park
0185 South Holmesville Road, La Porte
219.325.8315
click for details

Kesling Park
18th Street, La Porte
219.326.9600
click for details
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LEROY:

Stoney Run County Park
142nd and Union St., Leroy
219.996.6500
Time: 7 a.m. to sunset daily
Looking for a great way to exercise in a beautiful setting? Then come out to your Lake County Parks and cross country ski. Each park that offers this activity has several miles of trails through wooded areas as well as open fields. The trails are designed for a beginner as well as the experienced skier, so don't worry if you have never tried cross country skiing before.
Cross country ski rentals open at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run on Fri, Sat, Sun and school holidays 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Weather and snow conditions permitting. All equipment must be returned by 4:30 p.m. Note: Closing times may vary due to darkness. The equestrian trail is clossed at Stoney Run from December through March. Ski trails are groomed at Lemon Lake and Stoney Run when there is at least a four inch snow base.
click for details
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LOWELL:

Liberty Park
W Main St & N Liberty St., Lowell
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MERRILLVILLE:

Hidden Lake Park
6355 Broadway, Merrillville
219.980.8790
click for details
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MUNSTER:

Centennial Park
901 N. Centennial Dr., Munster
219.836.6930
click for details
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PORTAGE:

Countryside Park
5250 U.S. 6, Portage
219.762.1675

Woodland Park
2100 Willowcreek Road, Portage
219.762.1675
click for details
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PORTER:

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore
1100 N. Mineral Springs Road, Porter
219.926.7561
Time: Sunrise to sunset daily
Hiking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular in the wintertime. Visitors must bring their own snowshoes and cross-country skis, as there are no rentals available. A 4-6 inch snow base is recommended. Trails are not groomed.
click for details
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ST. JOHN:

Heron Lake Park
11960 Osage Dr., St. John
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VALPARAISO:

Forest Park Golf Course near Discovery Cottage
1158 Harrison Blvd., Valparaiso
219.462.5144
Once the golf course closes for the season, families can bring their skis and sleds for some winter fun.

Rogers-Lakewood Park
3210 North Campbell Street, Valparaiso
219.462.5144
This popular sledding hill attracts families each year to this 122-acre park. Families must bring their own sleds.
click for details

Sunset Hill Farm
775 Meridian Road, Valparaiso
219.465.3586
Time: Dawn to dusk

 

- Northwest Indiana is the home to numerous walking and biking trails. Check out the details on each trail for uses and location.

LAKE COUNTY TRAILS

Erie Lackawanna Trail
Cities: Hammond, Highland, Griffith, Merrillville, Schererville, Lake County
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Total Length of all segments: 16 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, biking, wheelchairs, biking, rollerblading.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Tranquil fields, wetlands, neighborhoods.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Hammond Bus Station - Sibley St and Hohman Ave, Hammond - IN
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: West 93rd Avenue - Crown Point
click for details

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Marquette Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Dunes
Mileage: 2.10
Surface: crushed limestone
Uses allowed: walking, Cross Country Skiing,mountain biking, skating,wheelchairs.
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Wetlands, dunes.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Grand Blvd at Ash Ave.
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: County Line Road going to beach
click for details

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Veteran's Memorial Bikeway
Cities: Crown point & Hebron
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9; 7 equestrian
Uses allowed: Horses on the parallel Equestrian Trail, rollerblading, walking, running, biking, hiking
Which uses NOT allowed: Motorized vehicles
Attractive Features: 6 miles of the Trail parallels with an Equestrian Trail, first trail in the US named after war veterans, eventually will connect to the American Discovery Trail running from Delaware to California, farmland and a quite beautiful, serene surrounding
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : State Road 231, Crown Point
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: N. Main Street, Hebron
click for details

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Wolf Lake - George Lake Trails
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: greenway
Mileage: 3.14 miles
Total Length of all segments: 6.5 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses Allowed: hiking, jogging, rollerblading, walking, biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Northern Entrance to the Forsythe Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: 119th Street
click for details

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Whihala Beach Bike Trail - Whiting Park
City: Whiting
INFO
Type of Trail: dune
Uses Allowed: Walking, jogging, biking
Mileage: 3886 ft.
North Endpoint – General: Lake Avenue - Whiting
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Park Road - Whiting
click for details

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Little Calumet River Levee Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of trail: River bank trail
Uses allowed: hiking, jogging, biking, rollerblading, skating, XC skiing, walking, wheelchairs
Mileage: 6
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Calumet Avenue Munster IN
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Martin Luther King Dr. - Gary In
click for details

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Pennsy North West Greenway
City: Schererville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, jogging, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
North Endpoint – General: E. Wilhelm Street - Redar Park Shererville IN
South Endpoint – General: Rohrman Park and Mockingbird Dr. - Shererville IN
click for details

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Munster Trail System
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: Jogging, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Green Link Trail
City: Gary
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 3/4 of a mile
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Walking, biking, jogging, rollerblading, skating
Wheelchairs allowed: Yes
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bridge Street
East endpoint – General: W. 2nd Ave and Roosevelt St.
click for details

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Monon Trail
Cities: Hammond/Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 3.64
Uses Allowed: Walking, rollerblading, skating, biking
Surface: Asphalt
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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Pennsy Greenway
City: Munster
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Total Length of all segments: 4.10 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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St. John Trail
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Mileage: 2.5 miles
Surface: Asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, walking, hiking, skating, rollerblading
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Homestead Acres Park, Heartland Park
click for details

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Cressmoor Prairie Nature Preserve Trail
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: Nature Preserve
Mileage: 0.8
Surface: Natural
Uses allowed: walking
Agency, Group Owned: Meadowbrook
Telephone: (219) 242 8558
click for details

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C&O Trail ( Chesapeake and Ohio Railroad )
City: Merrillville
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 1.48
Part NOT open: yes
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Biking, Walking, Jogging
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
click for details

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LAPORTE COUNTY


Lincoln Memorial Trails
City: Westville
INFO
Type of Trail: Various
Total Length of all segments: 3 miles
Uses allowed: Hiking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
E-mail: rbalsa@lincolntrail.info
click for details

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LaPorte County Bicycle Routes
City: Countywide
INFO
Type of Trail: 20 bike loops that connect our parks, communities, and other attractions
Total Length of all segments: 420 miles
Surface: asphalt
click for details

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PORTER COUNTY


Taltree Arboretum & Gardens
City: Valparaiso
Taltree has nearly just over six miles of trails. All provide plenty of room to comfortably walk or run by yourself, with a canine companion or your family and friends. The trail terrain is mostly grass and mulch.
Bluebird Trail 1.63 miles
Cardinal Trail .62 miles
Goldfinch Trail .63 miles
Heron Trail .28 miles
Owl Trail .51 miles
Woodcock Trail .96 miles
Pheasant Trail 1.11 miles
click for details

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Calumet Trail
City: Michigan City/Dune Acres
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail Trail
Mileage: 9.2
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 9.2 miles
Surface: crushed limestone
Length of unpaved: 9.2 miles
Uses allowed: biking, walking, running
Which uses NOT allowed: horses,snowmobiles
Attractive Features: Wetland flowers, wildlife, fall foliage; close to parks.
Impediments: First three miles can be under water after rain; some damage to covered bridges.
West Endpoint – General: Near Porter
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Mineral Springs Road
East endpoint – General: Michigan City
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: U. S. 12 at the power plant road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Iron Horse Heritage Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 2.9
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 5.1 miles
Surface: dirt,some asphalt
Uses allowed: walking, mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: wheelchair, rollerblading, biking
Attractive Features: Park, Mountain biking adjacent.
Impediments: rustic, muddy.
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Portage Avenue
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: N. State Rd 149
Telephone: 219-762-1675
click for details

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Prairie Duneland Trail
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Rail-trail
Mileage: 10.40
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: all uses
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Attractive Features: Connects to various trails, natural areas with abundant flora and fauna.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : SR51-Hobart
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: S. 15th Street
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Hobart Road
Telephone: (219) 395-1882
click for details

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Outback Trail
City: Portage
INFO
Type of Trail: BMX
Part NOT open: no
Total Length of all segments: 4 miles
Surface: dirt
Length of unpaved: 4 miles
Uses allowed: all levels of skill mountain biking.
Wheelchairs allowed: no
Which uses NOT allowed: restricted to mountain biking only.
Attractive Features: Circular dirt.
Impediments: dirt, steep slopes.
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : circular,off Imagination Park,Portage
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: circular
click for details

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Hobart Trails
City: Hobart
INFO
Type of Trail: City
Total Length of all segments: 1.2 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: Hiking, Walking, Biking
Wheelchairs allowed: yes
Telephone: (219) 942-1940
click for details

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Ly-co-ki-we Trail System
City: Chesterton
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 6.4
Total Length of all segments: 9.4
Surface: Sandy
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking, horseback riding, cross country skiing
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: Trails are not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint – General: Calumet Interpretive Center
South Endpoint – General: US Hwy 20 & Brummitt Rd.
West Endpoint – General: Hwy 12 & 50 East
East endpoint – General: Dunewood Campground
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Little Calumet River Trail
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: River
Mileage: 1.2
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Wheelchairs allowed: No
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Howe Rd & oak Hill Rd.
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Hwy. 20 & Howe Rd.
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Bailly Homestead & Chellberg Farm Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Forest
Mileage: 2.1
Surface: Natural (dirt-bark-some sand)
Uses allowed: Hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Historic site-forest-marsh-wetlands
Impediments: some areas not wheelchair accessible
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : at Bailly Cemetery near Hwy 12
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Bailly Homestead
West Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Howe Rd
East endpoint (#1) – Specific: Chellberg Farm
Telephone: 219-926-7561
click for details

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Valparaiso walking & biking trail system
City: Valparaiso
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenways
Surface: Asphalt
click for details

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Brickyard Trail / Dunes Kankakee Bike Trail
City: Chesterton / Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Greenway
Total Length of all segments: 4.1 miles
Surface: asphalt
Uses allowed: biking, hiking, walking
Attractive Features: Indiana Dunes State Park, Little Calumet River, Connects Prairie Duneland with Calumet trail
North Endpoint (#1) - Specific : Indiana Dunes State Park
South Endpoint (#2) – Specific: Prairie Duneland Trailhead – Chesterton
click for details

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Cowles Bog Trails
City: Porter
INFO
Type of Trail: Park
Uses Allowed: Foot traffic only
Surface: Natural
click for details