Getting to Know Michigan City IN
Located on the southern tip of Lake Michigan is Michigan City, Indiana. The city provides plenty of opportunities for fun with endless recreation, leisure, shopping, dining, and nightlife options. With its proximity to Indiana Dunes National Park the city receives a fair amount of tourism during the summer months, especially by residents of Chicago and of nearby cities in Northern Indiana. See what our New Buffalo chiropractor has to say about this often overlooked city.
The Lighthouse
The sprawling Washington Park Beach is most known for having the only public operating lighthouse in Indiana. Built in 1904, the lighthouse has become the most popular symbol of Michigan City. Washington Park and Beach is easily one of the most important hubs of activities in the city. From the sandy shore of Lake Michigan to a delightful zoo filled with animals from around the world, it is a must-visit for anyone traveling to or living in Northwest Indiana. With seasonable and year-round restaurants and concession stands, visitors are able to spend their whole day enjoying everything the park has to offer. Attractions inside Washington Park also include the Old Lighthouse Museum, Oasis Splash Pad, Millennium Plaza, and the Guy Foreman Amphitheater.
Not far from Washington Park is Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets. Set up as an outdoor village-like setting, the outlet center is home to over 100 stores. Lighthouse Place is the area's main shopping destination with stores ranging from designer fashion, housewares, shoes, gifts and specialty items.
Experience the Outdoors
If you're looking to have more of an outdoor experience, Friendship Botanical Gardens include 105 acres of trails through the woods and open spaces with gardens, a meadow, a lake, and Trail Creek.
Stateline Blueberries is a family run farm that has ten varieties of blueberries on 35 acres. The farm is maintained for the u-pick customer with the picking season running from the last week in June to the middle of August. They sell berries ready-picked for those that don't have time to engage in the picking process, also blueberry blossom honey, blueberry jam, and blueberry syrup.
Endless Entertainment
In the heart of downtown is the historic John H. Barker Mansion. Barker Mansion hosts many tours and special events throughout the year offering special programs for kids and adults alike. This historical landmark is sure to impress as you walk though 38 rooms lavishly decorated with fine European furnishings and intricately carved marble fireplaces.
Michigan City offers a plethora of choices when it comes to nightlife and entertainment, starting with the Blue Chip Casino and Hotel. Along with plenty of casino fun, visitors to the riverboat can enjoy a variety of dining choices and attractive accommodations. Get wild at It's Vegas Baby!, Blue Chip's all-night hotspot with the sights and sounds mimicking that of glamorous Las Vegas. It's Vegas Baby! hosts the best in live entertainment featuring an eclectic group of bands, singers and performers from across the country.
If you're looking for something a bit more laid back, Knuckleheads sports bar offers a full menu, a dozen hi-definition televisions, and a live music venue. Weather permitting, you can enjoy their beautiful outdoor deck with a full bar.
Shady Creek Winery features custom crafted wines and a tasting facility situated on nearly 20 acres of grounds. The winery offers expansive views, comfortable patios, covered porches, fireplaces, specialty foods, gifts and local artwork.
Burn 'Em Brewing microbrewery will serve you up their own pints, snacks, and to-go beer. Shoreline Brewery offers a relaxing atmosphere with twelve beers on tap and an extensive food menu.
Michigan City is located approximately 50 miles east of Chicago and 40 miles west of South Bend. The neighboring Michigan border with its closest town of New Buffalo is a mere 10 minute drive away, making it an accessible destination choice for travelers and vacationers alike.