Michigan City Things to Do
Michigan City, Indiana, on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan, offers visitors a wide variety of interesting and exciting things to do, including arts and culture, shopping and outdoor activities.
Experience the Outdoors
Outdoor activities abound with Michigan City's beaches, parks, trails, gardens and more. A trip to Michigan City isn't complete without a visit to the picturesque lighthouse and pier at Washington Park. Built in 1904, the lighthouse is the only one publicly operated in Indiana. At the park, you'll find a beautiful beach, a splash pad, a lakefront park with shelters, plus the Washington Park Zoo that the kids will love! If you'll be there in the evening, make a reservation at Stop Zero at the park to watch the sunset from their rooftop patio.
Like to fish? Schedule a fishing charter with one of the Indiana North Coast Charter Association members to catch some salmon, stealhead and trout.
Bicyclists and hikers will appreciate the Calumet Bike Trail and the Heron Rookery Trail, both of which are excellent spots for birding and wildlife watching. Beach lovers will soak up the sun at Central Avenue Beach, part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
Wander through the beautiful Friendship Botanic Gardens or Brincka Cross Gardens. Find a variety of locally grown foods and artisan goods at the Michigan City Farmers Market or visit the u-picks and orchards. Golfers will enjoy Michigan City Municipal Golf's North and South Courses.
Take in the Arts
Indulge your artistic side, admiring the artwork at a gallery or enjoying a live concert or theater production. Patrons of the arts will enjoy all that the Lubeznik Center for the Arts offers, including art galleries, exhibitions, art education and an annual art festival. Visitors can take in concerts and shows featuring nationally known entertainers at the Blue Chip Casino, or watch productions at Dunes Summer Theatre or Footlight Players.
Sip on a Drink
Michigan City has options for both the wine and beer connoisseurs. Wine lovers can not only find fabulous regional wines at Shady Creek Winery, but they can also enjoy live entertainment on Sundays. Craft beer enthusiasts should stop by Zorn Brew Works or Shoreline Brewery to try their newest brews. Both breweries have live music nights.
Go Shopping
Which do you prefer - outlet shopping or antiquing? Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets offer 120 outlet stores for the discriminating shopper, such as Vera Bradley, Under Armour, Nike, Michael Kors, Kate Spade, and Levi's. Michigan City also has a wide variety of locally owned and nationally known stores, as well as the popular Antique Market.
More Things to Do
History buffs can travel back to the Gilded Age and explore the 38 rooms and beautiful garden at Barker Mansion or learn more local history at the Old Lighthouse Museum. Blue Chip Casino provides excellent gaming opportunities, a variety of delicious restaurants and year-round entertainment.
Savor a delicious meal indoors or out at one of the many restaurants, then make a stop at Bubbles or Cabo's ice cream shops for delicious frozen treats, perfect for hot summer days.
Need a place to stay nearby? Find Michigan City hotels and rentals here.
