Valparaiso Things to Do

Visitors to Valparaiso, Indiana, will find a wide variety of things to do and events to enjoy, no matter what the season. Check out our suggestions below or just spend the day strolling through the walkable downtown, stopping in at the various shops, finding a restaurant for lunch or dinner and taking a selfie on the bench next to the Orville Redenbacher statue.

Festivals and Events

Events and festivals occur year-round in Valparaiso. Immerse yourself in a world of creativity at Art Barn's Art Blitz. Pick up handcrafted treasures, fresh bakery items and produce at the farmers' market or catch a band at an outdoor summer concert. Listen to an orchestra concert and browse art vendors at Sand and Steel Art Fest. Watch the parade floats go by at Popcorn Festival or take a spin on the carnival rides at Porter County Fair. 

Sample local craft beers at Valpo Brewfest and find your favorite wine at the winery festival. Take the kids to paint pumpkins and drink apple cider at Fall Harvest Festival or check out the ice sculptures and holiday lights during Holly Days. More information on these exciting events and more can be found in our events section.
 

Attractions

In addition to the great events they host, there are all kinds of fun things to do in Valparaiso. Gabis Arboretum is a perfect place to take the family and hike the trails and explore themed gardens year-round. Their popular Railway Garden, open from spring through fall, has model trains winding throughout. Spring is a great time to visit Ogden Botanical Garden with its beautiful floral displays and a Japanese garden.

In the summer, 49er Drive-In Theatre is a family-friendly way to catch a double feature while enjoying the great outdoors. At Rogers Lakewood Park, rent kayaks to take out on the lake, fish or play disc golf. During winter, sled at the park or go ice skating at Central Park Plaza. 
 

Food and Drink

Visit Journeyman Distillery at the American Factory to enjoy cocktails, a tour and a delicious meal. If you prefer wine, stop by Four Corners Winery or Anderson's Vineyard & Winery for local favorites. If you're looking for something sweet, Parlor Doughnuts has delicious layered doughnuts or stop in Cold Stone Creamery for an after-dinner treat. Find more places to eat in Valparaiso here.
 

Arts and Culture

Chicago Street Theatre and Memorial Opera House both have local theater troupes that put on popular productions and they also host music concerts. Visit the Porter County Museum, aka PoCo Muse, to learn about the county's rich history, take a tour and check out the latest exhibits.
 

Need a place to stay during your visit? Find nearby hotels here.