South Shore Spring Getaway

Home of the Indiana Dunes

Spring is a beautiful time of year for a relaxing vacation with family and friends along the South Shore of Lake Michigan.

Make the most of your spring visit at places like the Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park, fish and wildlife areas and public gardens to see spring wildflowers, migrating birds and other wildlife. After a day outdoors, grab dinner at a local restaurant or try a new craft brew, wine, cider or mead.

Taking a spring break with the kids? You'll both love all the places to jump, climb, play and learn throughout the area.

Located in the northwest corner of Indiana - just 45 minutes from Chicago - the South Shore offers the perfect destination to get away! Check out the information below and start planning.

Spring Flowers - South Shore

Hidden Gems

If you're in need of a reboot, spend some time hiking through the outdoor world as it comes to life this spring. The Indiana Dunes, the true gem of the South Shore, is home to more than 1,400 species of ferns and flowering plants, including 28 species of orchids. That's more native orchid species than the state of Hawaii!

Another outdoor gem is Gabis Arboretum in Valparaiso, offering dog-friendly hiking trails, gardens and a children's adventure area. Their model train garden is a must-see and opens in May, as does Friendship Botanic Gardens in Michigan City. Stroll down 105 acres of trails through the woods and open spaces with gardens, a meadow and Lake Lucerne. Explore their historic Heritage Gardens commemorating cultures around the world and enjoy nature-based play experiences in the children's garden.

Discover more hidden gems along the South Shore here!

• Trails for Hiking and Biking

Fishing

Spring is a great time of year to fish in northwest Indiana. Whether you take a fishing charter out on Lake Michigan to catch coho salmon or prefer to fish from the shore, you'll find plenty of locations to choose from.

Best Fishing Spots

Indiana Dunes

The Indiana Dunes is well-known for its beaches and trails, but there are even more activities to enjoy throughout the year. Start your bucket list with our page: 61 Things to Do at the Dunes!

Dunes Activities

Golf

Tee off at the beautiful courses of Lost Marsh or White Hawk. When playing outdoors isn't an option, visit Net Par for their indoor golf simulator. Want to try something different the whole family can enjoy? How about disc golf or footgolf!

Go Golfing

• All Outdoor Things to Do

Dynamic Variation: