Top 10 Spring Activities at the Indiana Dunes

Pack your bags, turn on your radios, and pop some popcorn for a night under the stars that you won't forget. Spring is in the air, and The 49'er Drive-In is more than a movie night; it is an adventure to far-off places with friends and family while sitting in your car. Enjoy a double-feature and create memories that linger long after the credits roll.

Spring is a time of new life, new adventures, and new animals. Go see the baby bison at Broken Wagon Bison, a family-owned bison farm with over 100 bison, all from the comfort of a wagon moving across the open pasture. Seeing these animals up close creates a rare experience you won't find just anywhere in the Midwest.

Wake up early on Saturday morning for a tradition that gathers talented artists, chefs, merchants, and farmers with a welcoming atmosphere and lovely entertainment. The Chesterton European Market is one of the coziest places where you can find gourmet foods, locally crafted art, fresh meats, spices, and oils, handcrafted jewelry, farm-fresh produce, and more. With nearby local boutiques and restaurants just steps away, it’s the kind of place where you’ll want to stay a while.

Spring is the perfect time to wander over to Gabis Arboretum. With trees and flowers in bloom, there are very few places to be more perfect or beautiful than nature. In the railway garden, model trains pass waterfalls and bridges, creating miniature scenes that invite you to pause a little longer. Around nearly every turn, there’s a view worth capturing.

When spring hits, nothing tastes better than beautifully distilled whiskey at the Journeyman Distillery. This historic American Factory distills and ages whiskey in beautiful American white oak wooden barrels. Take a tasting tour and get a behind-the-scenes look at the craft. This is a place where spring comes alive.

This spring, get to the Memorial Opera House for some amazing shows and productions that are sure to inspire and wow. From Broadway-style musicals to concerts and community performances, creativity takes center stage in its intimate historic setting. Check out the Memorial Opera House, see what’s playing, and make it part of your spring vacation this year.

Nothing says "classic roadtrip" like an old-style drive-in and sodas delivered to your window. Take a step into a simpler time at The Port Drive-In, where the smell of corndogs and fries, the sight of carhops whipping between parked cars, and the feeling of a cold root beer in hand will having you feel like its the 1960's. The Port Drive-In has been serving up classic American fare in a setting that hasn’t lost its nostalgic charm. Pull in, roll down the windows, and enjoy the classics this Spring.

Just steps from the Valparaiso downtown square, the Porter County Museum offers a closer look at the stories that shaped this region. Thoughtfully curated exhibits highlight local history, culture, and community in a way that’s engaging and easy to explore. It’s a quick family-friendly stop that adds a little learning to your Indiana Dunes adventure.

After a hot day on the beach, nothing hits the spot quite like a cold scoop of ice cream. For generations, Valpo Velvet has been the local spot to get your ice cream and relax. Its rich, old-fashioned ice cream has been part of some of the sweetest spring and summer memories, and you will not want to miss it during your trip.

There is no shortage of things to do at Zao Island. This entertainment complex has minigolf, go-karts, laser tag, and more. Kids and adults alike will find days worth of fun and entertainment. The time spent together and the smile on your kids' faces will be priceless. It’s an easy place to get moving, make memories, and capture perfect moments together.