Indiana Dunes State Park

Things to do near Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park offers a delightful array of activities, including birdwatching and wildlife observation, making it a nature lover's paradise. Visitors can explore numerous hiking trails that meander through stunning landscapes. Additionally, the area boasts charming antique shops for those interested in a spot of shopping. With attractions aplenty, it’s a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

Shopping

The nearest shopping options include Dunes Plaza, located 12.9km away, offering a family-friendly atmosphere with various shops. Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets is 14.5km away and features a mix of entertainment and shopping. If you're up for a drive, Garwood Orchards, 20.9km away, provides a unique local experience.

Recreation

Marquette Park offers a tranquil retreat with scenic views, perfect for relaxation and mindfulness activities. Nearby, the Hanson Park provides a peaceful environment ideal for leisurely strolls and picnics. For a more active experience, the Disk Golf Course combines sport and nature, making it a delightful outdoor pursuit.

Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating hike at Cowles Bog Trailhead, located 3.2km from Indiana Dunes State Park, where stunning scenery and outdoor adventure await. For a splash of fun, visit Deep River Water Park, situated 25.7km away, offering thrilling water rides and family entertainment.

Nightlife

Enjoy a night out at Guy Foreman Bicentennial Amphitheater, where you can soak in culture and entertainment, only 14.5km away. Alternatively, catch a film at Cinemark Valparaiso, 20.9km away, or experience the charm of Chicago Street Theatre for a delightful family evening.

Find the best attractions near Indiana Dunes State Park

Indiana Dunes State Park offers a delightful mix of outdoor and family-friendly experiences, with its stunning beaches and picturesque landscapes. Visitors can enjoy a variety of attractions, including the expansive national and urban parks that surround the area. Whether you're seeking relaxation by the water or adventurous hikes through nature, this region caters to all travellers looking to embrace the great outdoors.

• Indiana Dunes National Park: Experience breathtaking scenery and a plethora of outdoor activities just 1.1km away. This national park is a haven for adventure enthusiasts, offering hiking trails, diverse wildlife, and stunning views of the dunes and Lake Michigan.
• Lake View Beach: Located 6.4km from the state park, Lake View Beach is a perfect spot to unwind. With its sandy shores and refreshing waters, it’s an ideal place for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the beach vibes.
• Indiana Dunes Visitor Center: About 3.2km away, this visitor centre is a gateway to adventure and family-friendly activities. Learn about the park’s ecology and history while enjoying outdoor programming and trails for all ages.

Best time to go to Indiana Dunes State Park

The best time to visit Indiana Dunes State Park can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Indiana Dunes State Park falls in July, when visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Indiana Dunes State Park falls in January, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	26.1°F (-3.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Slightly Low
February	27.5°F (-2.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	37.8°F (3.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	46.9°F (8.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	58.3°F (14.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
June	67.8°F (19.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
July	72.7°F (22.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
August	71.6°F (22.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Slightly High
September	66.0°F (18.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	54.5°F (12.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
November	42.1°F (5.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Slightly Low
December	33.3°F (0.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Low	Average

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Indiana Dunes State Park

For a budget-friendly visit to Indiana Dunes State Park, consider travelling during the cheaper months of January, February, or November, avoiding the peak season from June to August. Opt for a stay on a Monday for lower accommodation costs, and utilise Expedia’s search tool to filter options by your budget and preferences. Look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for additional savings. Make sure to explore free activities in and around the park to enhance your experience without overspending.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park is Monday. The most expensive day to stay around Indiana Dunes State Park is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of accommodation you seek. To uncover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation at Indiana Dunes State Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.