South Shore Convention and Visitors Authority

Get out and explore

The South Shore along Lake Michigan in Indiana is an exciting place, with no shortage of outdoor activities and places to explore, fun community events to enjoy, unique attractions to visit and so much more. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, the region offers a wonderful quality of life with plenty of green space including the Indiana Dunes National Park. There are also more than 80 different cultures represented in the area, which can be seen in the variety of restaurants and annual festivals.

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South Shore highlights

South Shore offers so many things to do and places to see. The region has more than 15 miles of beaches along Lake Michigan, a rich arts and culture community, unique attractions, plenty of blueways and greenways, exciting festivals and events, plus local breweries, wineries and distilleries. Below is a list of some of the area’s featured highlights and must-see locations.

Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes stretch 25 miles east along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Enjoy beautiful lakeside beaches and trails surrounded by prairies, forests and, of course, sand dunes. The landscapes along this region are recognized as some of the most biologically diverse in the nation, acting as a home to more than 350 species of birds and hundreds of other animals, and more than 1,400 species of ferns and flowering plants. Go on a camping trip, take a scheduled tour, paddle your way along the Lake Michigan Water Trail, go fishing, snowshoe along the trails, take your furry friend for a walk and so much more at the Indiana Dunes National Park.

Fair Oaks Farms

Get an up-close look at sustainable farming through three different interactive experiences: the Dairy Adventure, Pig Adventure and Crop Adventure. Once you’ve learned what it takes to run a modern day farm, sample delicious dairy products that were made from milk produced at Fair Oaks Farms. There is also an on-site cheese factory and a “Cowfé” where you can order scrumptious breakfasts and lunches that are made with — you guessed it — farm-fresh products and produce. Be sure to order some of Fair Oaks Farms ice cream before you end your day!

The Shrine of Christ’s Passion

Located in St. John, Indiana, this religious shrine is a multimedia interactive Prayer Trail depicting the last days of Jesus Christ’s life. Walk along the winding, half-mile path with 40 life-size bronze sculptures in a tranquil setting. Enjoy the beautiful music and sculpted gardens that present the story of the crucifixion and resurrection through listening stations along the path with audio recordings narrated by Chicago broadcaster Bill Kurtis.

See the bison at Kankakee Sands

The Nature Conservancy introduced a herd of 23 bison to the Kankakee Sands prairie restoration project in 2016. Now, more than 100 bison roam the one-square mile prairie, and the area is considered to be the easternmost conservancy preserve where bison can be found. Thanks to a designated, slightly elevated viewing area, visitors can easily and safely see the bison roaming and grazing.

Regional Events

June 24-26, 2022
Broad Street Blues and BBQ Festival
Central Park, Griffith

June 25, 2022
Colors of the World Culture Fest
Centennial Park, Munster

June 25, 2022
Rhythm and Soul Fest
Washington Park, East Chicago

July 1-4, 2022
Cedar Lake Summerfest
Cedar Lake Town Complex

July 8-10, 2022
38th Annual Vintage Tractor and Farm Festival
Lake County Fairgrounds, Crown Point

July 13-17, 2022
Festival of the Lakes
Wolf Lake Memorial Park, Hammond

July 15-16, 2022
Taste of Crown Point
Bulldog Park, Crown Point

July 29-31, 2022
Pierogi Fest®
119th Street, Whiting

August 5-14, 2022
Lake County Fair
Lake County Fairgrounds, Crown Point

August 6-8, 2022
FUSIC Fest
Jeorse Park, East Chicago

August 18-21, 2022
Hobart Lakefront Festival
Festival Park, Hobart

September 1-4, 2022
Rock ‘N’ Rail Music & Street Festival
Downtown Griffith

September 10, 2022
Popcorn Festival
Downtown Valparaiso