Explore the best of Michigan City and LaPorte
Explore the best of Michigan City and LaPorte, two destinations offering a blend of outdoor adventure, history and vibrant events.
Located just 60 minutes from Chicago, Michigan City boasts sandy beaches, the only working lighthouse in Indiana and scenic views of Lake Michigan. History buffs will love the Old Lighthouse Museum which offers tours and artifacts showcasing maritime life on Lake Michigan.
Visit Washington Park, home to the historic Washington Park Zoo built in 1928, perched on a sand dune on 15 acres of land with its 90+ species to discover. Enjoy dining with a view from Sunset Grille Rooftop Cantina and Beach Concessions, shop or wind down at Blue Chip Casino Hotel & Spa. Plus, don’t miss the Indiana Dunes National Park, just minutes away.
The nearby City of LaPorte offers outdoor recreation on its many inland lakes ideal for fishing, jet-skiing and boating. Don’t miss LaPorte’s exciting events like LakeFest, the LaPorte County Fair celebrating its 179th year and the 4th of July Parade. Explore history at the LaPorte County Historical Society Museum, with its impressive car and weapons collection, or visit the fascinating Hesston Steam Museum, where vintage steam trains and engines come to life.
Annually during the first week of August, Visit Michigan City LaPorte proudly hosts the XINSURANCE Great Lakes Grand Prix powerboat race. Race week events thrill audiences of all ages. Saturday 8/2 features an all-day block party (noon–11pm), next at 7 pm there is a downtown boat parade with boats traveling down our main street while fans applaud as the crowd grabs for beads, candy, trinkets, etc. Afterwards there is free entertainment and a free kids zone. Two days of dynamic racing occurs on 8/2 and 8/3 and spectators enjoy watching the various class of boats racing against each other for the winning spot.
Whether you’re drawn to beaches, outdoor activities or cultural events, Michigan City and LaPorte offer something for everyone.
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