Shop Local

Support local businesses by shopping small! In many of our downtown areas, you’ll discover a variety of independently-owned shops, many of them carrying products from local vendors and artisans. Chesterton, Valparaiso, Crown Point, Highland, Hobart and Rensselaer all have downtowns with stores as well as restaurants to try.

In the Miller Beach neighborhood of Gary, visit shops like Miller School Shops & Spaces and Lake Street Gallery for thoughtful gifts and home decor.

Stroll through the unique shops in the basement of the Historic Lake County Courthouse in Crown Point. Nearby, Antiques on Main is a fun place to treasure hunt for antiques or find handmade bakeware and dishware at More Polish Pottery. In St. John, the Shrine of Christ's Passion carries more than 10,000 products including inspiring religious items along with gift items for any occasion.

Find a large variety of fine spices, handcrafted seasonings, loose-leaf teas, salts, sugars, gifts, and more at The Spice & Tea Exchange in Valparaiso. Explore the works of local makers and artists as well as vintage goods at Over Yonder! Dunes Gift Shop in Beverly Shores.

Pick up some candy treats at Tethan's Candy and Confections in Chesterton or, in Cedar Lake, stock up on handcrafted chocolates at Morkes Chocolates.

The South Shore Gift Shop inside the Indiana Welcome Center in Hammond carries Indiana-made products, souvenirs, one-of-a-kind “A Christmas Story” items, and the largest selection of the famous South Shore Posters.