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![Indiana Dunes 5-Day Adventure](https://storage.googleapis.com/bd-app-dev-375714.appspot.com/itineraries/018bf77e-9e23-71d0-9880-47191f834d48/location356.jpg)
Indiana Dunes 5-Day Adventure Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14Dunes Discovery and Local Eats
Morning
Start your Indiana Dunes adventure with a hearty breakfast at Octave Grill, known for its delicious omelets and pancakes. Afterward, head to the Indiana Dunes State Park to explore the diverse ecosystems and pristine beaches. Take a morning hike on the trails, and if you're up for it, climb the iconic dunes for a stunning view of Lake Michigan.
Afternoon
For lunch, enjoy the casual atmosphere and gourmet sandwiches at Bartlett's Gourmet Grill & Tavern. Post-lunch, visit the Chesterton's European Market (open on Saturdays) to experience the local flavors, artisan crafts, and live music. Spend the afternoon browsing the market's unique offerings and interacting with the friendly vendors.
Evening
As the day winds down, savor a fine dining experience at Lucrezia Cafe, known for its Italian cuisine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the Shoreline Brewery and Restaurant to enjoy craft beers and the laid-back ambiance. Reflect on your first day in Indiana Dunes with the sound of the waves in the background.
Bedtime
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![Visit Ahwahnee Hotel in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ae/ea.jpg)
4.24Indiana Dunes State Park
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![Visit Ahwahnee Hotel in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ae/ea.jpg)
Indiana Dunes State Park
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![Visit Ansel Adams Gallery in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/50.jpg)
4.39Chesterton's European Market
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![Visit Ansel Adams Gallery in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/50.jpg)
Chesterton's European Market
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![Visit Bridalveil Fall in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/af/e8.jpg)
4.45Shoreline Brewery and Restaurant
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![Visit Bridalveil Fall in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/af/e8.jpg)
Shoreline Brewery and Restaurant
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Historic Sites and Culinary Delights
Morning
Begin with a breakfast at Third Coast Spice Cafe, where you can enjoy a variety of morning flavors. Afterward, immerse yourself in history at the Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm (open on Fridays and weekends). Explore the historic buildings and learn about the early settlers of the region.
Afternoon
For lunch, indulge in the wood-fired pizzas at Duneland Pizza. Post-lunch, take a scenic drive along the Indiana Dunes National Park and make stops at the various overlooks and beach access points. Capture the beauty of the dunes and the lake, and if the weather permits, take a refreshing dip.
Evening
Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Wagner's Ribs, a local favorite for barbecue. Afterward, if you're in the mood for some entertainment, head to The Port Drive-Inn for a classic drive-in movie experience. Snuggle up with blankets and enjoy a film under the stars.
Bedtime
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4.82Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm
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![Visit Rafting Classe 3-4 "Jungle Run": Rio Sarapiquí, Costa Rica in Indiana Dunes](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/5da4b07d55ea4.jpeg/21.jpg)
Bailly Homestead and Chellberg Farm
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![Visit Ballard Park in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ae/83.jpg)
Indiana Dunes National Park
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![Visit Ballard Park in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ae/83.jpg)
Indiana Dunes National Park
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![Visit El Capitan in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ac/a9.jpg)
4.61The Port Drive-Inn
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![Visit El Capitan in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ac/a9.jpg)
The Port Drive-Inn
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Nature's Wonders and Ethnic Flavors
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at El Salto Mexican Restaurant, where you can enjoy traditional Mexican dishes. After breakfast, spend the morning at the Cowles Bog, one of the most ecologically diverse areas in the dunes. Take a guided hike to learn about the unique plant and animal species that call this bog home.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Sage Restaurant for a farm-to-table experience with a focus on local ingredients. Post-lunch, visit the Mount Baldy area. Take a ranger-led tour to learn about the history of the dune and the efforts to preserve this ever-shifting landscape.
Evening
Conclude your day with dinner at Don Quijote Restaurante & Imports, offering a taste of Spain in the heart of Indiana. Afterward, take a serene evening walk at Marquette Park and Pavilion, where you can enjoy the sunset over Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline in the distance.
Bedtime
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![Visit Glacier Point in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ab/a3.jpg)
4.68Cowles Bog
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![Visit Glacier Point in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ab/a3.jpg)
Cowles Bog
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![Visit Half Dome in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/4c.jpg)
4.68Mount Baldy
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![Visit Half Dome in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a5/4c.jpg)
Mount Baldy
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![Visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a8/08.jpg)
4.85Marquette Park and Pavilion
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![Visit Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/a8/08.jpg)
Marquette Park and Pavilion
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Artisanal Eats and Outdoor Escapades
Morning
Enjoy a breakfast at Pikk's Tavern, known for its cozy atmosphere and morning delights. Post-breakfast, gear up for an adventurous morning at the Indiana Dunes Zip Line Adventures. Soar through the treetops and experience the dunes from a different perspective.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Gelsosomo's Pizzeria & Pub - Chesterton, IN for a taste of their famous thin-crust pizza. After refueling, spend the afternoon at Porter Brickyard Bike Trail. Whether you prefer a leisurely ride or a challenging mountain bike trail, the scenic route will take you through the historic brick-making area and the natural beauty of the dunes.
Evening
Dine at Flamingo Pizza of Miller Beach, where you can enjoy a variety of pizzas and a laid-back atmosphere. After dinner, take a twilight hike at Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education. The center offers guided night hikes to explore the nocturnal life of the dunes, providing a unique and educational experience.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Indiana Dunes.
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Indiana Dunes Zip Line Adventures
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Indiana Dunes Zip Line Adventures
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4.90Porter Brickyard Bike Trail
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Porter Brickyard Bike Trail
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4.90Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
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![Visit Mist Trail in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ad/1f.jpg)
Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
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Serene Sendoff and City Excursion
Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast at The Port Drive-Inn, where you can savor classic diner fare. After breakfast, take a morning walk at Ogden Dunes Beach, a serene and less crowded spot. Reflect on your trip as you listen to the gentle lapping of the waves.
Afternoon
For a change of pace, take a day trip to the vibrant city of Chicago, just an hour's drive away. Explore iconic attractions such as the Willis Tower Skydeck, The Art Institute of Chicago, or take a relaxing Chicago Architecture River Cruise. Indulge in the diverse culinary scene of the city for lunch and enjoy the urban energy.
Evening
Return to Indiana Dunes for a farewell dinner at a local favorite, Shoreline Brewery and Restaurant. Raise a glass to the memories made and the adventures shared. As the evening winds down, take a quiet stroll on the beach, letting the sound of the waves carry you into the night.
Bedtime
Find amazing hotels in Indiana Dunes.
![Visit Tuolumne Meadows in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/ae/52.jpg)
4.96Ogden Dunes Beach
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Ogden Dunes Beach
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4.46Willis Tower Skydeck
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![Visit Tunnel View in Indiana Dunes](https://media.tacdn.com/media/attractions-content--1x-1/0b/27/aa/0e.jpg)
Willis Tower Skydeck
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![Visit From Cairns Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour in Indiana Dunes](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/59d5c23e0091c.jpeg/21.jpg)
4.57The Art Institute of Chicago
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![Visit From Cairns Daintree Rainforest & Cape Tribulation 4WD Tour in Indiana Dunes](https://cdn.getyourguide.com/img/tour/59d5c23e0091c.jpeg/21.jpg)
The Art Institute of Chicago
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4.55Chicago Architecture River Cruise
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Chicago Architecture River Cruise
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