Michigan City, located in northern Indiana, is a vibrant and dynamic city that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. From the pristine beaches of Lake Michigan to the historic landmarks, shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Michigan City has something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best things to do in Michigan City.
Explore the Beaches of Lake Michigan
If you’re looking for a fun day at the beach, Michigan City has plenty of options to choose from. Some of the best beaches in the area include:
Washington Park Beach: With over a mile of pristine shoreline, this beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking.
Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore: This beautiful beach stretches for 15 miles along Lake Michigan and offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, and bird-watching.
Mount Baldy Beach: This secluded beach is known for its towering sand dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Visit the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets
If you’re a shopping enthusiast, you won’t want to miss the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. With over 120 stores offering discounts of up to 65%, this shopping destination is a must-visit for bargain hunters. Some of the top stores include Nike, Coach, Michael Kors, and Polo Ralph Lauren.
Experience the Arts and Culture Scene
Michigan City has a rich arts and culture scene that is worth exploring. Some of the top attractions include:
The Lubezki Centre for the Arts: This contemporary art museum features rotating exhibitions, workshops, and events that showcase the work of local and regional artists.
The Michigan City Mainstreet Association: This organization is dedicated to preserving and promoting the historic downtown district of Michigan City. Be sure to check out the many festivals and events they host throughout the year, including the Taste of Michigan City and the Great Lakes Grand Prix.
The Barker Mansion: This historic mansion was built in 1905 and offers a glimpse into the luxurious lifestyle of the early 20th century. Guided tours are available.
Explore the Outdoors
Michigan City is surrounded by natural beauty, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Some of the top outdoor activities include:
Indiana Dunes State Park: This 2,182-acre park features towering sand dunes, miles of hiking trails, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
The Friendship Botanic Gardens: This 105-acre botanical garden features a variety of plant species, as well as a butterfly garden, a Japanese garden, and a pond.
The Marquette Park Lagoon: This peaceful lagoon is a great spot for fishing, boating, and bird watching.
Enjoy Local Dining
Michigan City has a thriving dining scene that offers a wide range of cuisine options. Some of the top restaurants include:
Fiddlehead Restaurant: This farm-to-table restaurant offers fresh, seasonal dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
Shoreline Brewery: This microbrewery offers a variety of craft beers, as well as a menu featuring pub-style fare.
Patrick’s Grille: This upscale restaurant features a menu of creative American cuisine, as well as an extensive wine list.
Visit the Zoo
If you’re traveling with kids, a visit to the Washington Park Zoo is a must. This family-friendly zoo features a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys.
Tour the Local Breweries
Michigan City is home to several microbreweries, making it a great destination for beer lovers. Some of the top breweries include:
Burn ‘Elm Brewing: This brewery offers a variety of creative, small-batch beers, as well as a rotating selection of food trucks.
Zorn Brew Works: This family-owned brewery specializes in Belgian-style beers, as well as unique flavor combinations like their popular Peanut Butter Porter.
Shady Creek Winery: Although it’s technically a winery, Shady Creek also offers a selection of craft beers and ciders.
Attend a Festival or Event
Michigan City is home to a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including:
The Great Lakes Grand Prix: This high-speed boat race takes place on Lake Michigan and attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The Michigan City Farmer’s Market: This weekly farmer’s market offers fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors.
The Blue Chip Briefest: This annual beer festival features over 100 craft beers from around the country, as well as food trucks and live music.
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Conclusion:
Michigan City is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a day at the beach, a shopping spree, a taste of local cuisine, or an outdoor adventure, Michigan City has it all. Be sure to add these top attractions and activities to your itinerary to make the most of your visit to this beautiful city.
FAQs
Q: What are the best outdoor activities in Michigan City?
A: Michigan City is home to several great outdoor activities, including hiking at Indiana Dunes State Park, fishing on Lake Michigan, and golfing at one of the many local courses.
Q: What are the best family-friendly activities in Michigan City?
A: There are several family-friendly activities in Michigan City, such as visiting the Washington Park Zoo, playing mini-golf at Zao Island, or taking a splash at the Washington Park Beach.
Q: What are the best places to shop in Michigan City?
A: Michigan City has several great shopping destinations, including the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, the Michigan City Farmer’s Market, and the Blue Moon Vintage Market.
Q: What are the best restaurants in Michigan City?
A: Michigan City has a variety of great restaurants, such as Bridges Waterside Grille, Fiddlehead Restaurant, and Shoreline Brewery.
Q: What are the best indoor activities in Michigan City?
A: Michigan City offers several indoor activities, including visiting the Barker Mansion, watching a movie at the AMC Showplace Michigan City 14, or exploring the exhibits at the Lubeznik Center for the Arts.
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