West Beach
A long beach with dune trails. The park's entrance fee applies.
Indiana Dunes National Park
Tall sand dunes and Lake Michigan beaches, with the Chicago skyline in the distance, an hour from the Loop by train.
Fifteen miles of beach sit among steel mills and bogs, a mix that gives this park a surprising range of plants. Climb the big dunes, try the 3 Dune Challenge at the state park, and see the houses left from the 1933 World's Fair.
- Best Time
- May–September
- Time Needed
- 1 day
- Cost Level
- $$$$
- Open
- Check before you go; hours vary by season
- Getting There
- About an hour from Chicago, by South Shore train or car.
What to See
0 of 3 are free3 Dune Challenge
A hard 1.5-mile climb in the state park next door, which charges a separate fee.
Century of Progress Homes
Five futuristic houses from the 1933 Chicago World's Fair, shipped here by barge.
Know Before You Go
- Lake Michigan can have dangerous rip currents.
Where to Stay
A day trip from Chicago, or stay in Chesterton.
Where to Eat
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Last checked 2026-11-02. Part of the Midwest list.