2014 kids guide

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W e l c o m e

W e l c o m e

This publication is produced by Indiana Dunes Tourism in cooperation with area attractions and companies. Every effortis made to ensure the accuracy of information as of August 2014. Indiana Dunes Tourism is not liable for damages

arising from errors, omissions or outdated information. No endorsement of products or services described is implied.

2014 Indiana Dunes Tourism

In dia na D un es Co un tr yCa n ' t- Miss A t tra c tions :

p T h e In diana D un es p. 4 - t h is on e's a gi v en

p 4 9 er Dri v e In p.18 - on e of on l y 350 in t h e co un tr y

p Bass Pro p.12 - 3 a q ua ri ums a n d 2,000+ a n ima ls (s t uff e d )

p Brok en Wa gon Bison Fa rm p.1 9 - o v er 100 li v e b ison

p Hoosi er Ba t Compan y p.13 - s e e M L B ba ts g e t ma d e

p Pi g gi es & Cr eam/ Va lpo V e l v e t p.11 - i c e cr ea m

ma d e ri g h t in Por t er Co un t y

p Por t Dri v e- In p. 7 - ca r hops a n d hom ema d e roo t b e er

p Por ta g e I MA X p.1 4 - on l y I MA X in t h e a r ea

p S e v en P ea ks Wa t erpa rk p.22 - 15 wa t ers li d es

p Ta l tr e e Ar bor e t um p.23 - 2.5-a cr e rai l wa y ga r d en

a n d 3.5 mi l es of tra i lsp Zao Is lan d Am us em en t C en t er

p.1 7 - go-ka r ts ,

a r ca d e, min i go lf, la s er ta g , li v e a l li ga tors & mor e

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Indiana Dunes Visitor CenterStart your journey at the Visitor Center. Its a place to stop andask for directions so you know exactly how to get where youwant to go. We have brochures for all the coolest places to go,maps for the best trails, posters and other cool collectibles, avideo about the things you can do, expert info about nature andwildlife, fun programs for kids and a gift shop.Parent Point: The Visitor Center is the best place to stop andnalize your itinerary, get time-saving directions and maps,

and make any last-minute additions to your schedule. Wecan help you have the most enjoyable time imaginable here in IndianaDunes Country!Hours: Memorial Day through Labor Day: Sun-Sat 8am-6pm CSTLabor Day through Memorial Day Sun-Sat 8:30am-4:30pm CST

Address: 1215 N. State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304Phone: 219-926-2255 Web: indianadunes.com

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The Indiana Dunes....Hiking, swimming, camping, fshing, sports

Dining...........................Special kid menus, cool scenery,one-of-a-kind experiences

Sweet Treats.............Candy, fudge, and ice cream ranging from softserve, homemade hand-dipped, frozen yogurt,gelato, behind-the-scenes tour

Indoor.......................Bowling, movies, museums, arcades, skating, art,crafts, laser tag, sports, bat manufacturing tour

Outdoor....................Water park, skate parks, mini golf, hiking, biking,swimming, splash pad, go-karts, batting cages,live alligators, drive-in theater, paintball,radio-controlled planes, railway gardens,bison farm tour

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T H E I N D IA NA D U N ES T H E I N D IA NA D U N ES

T o p T e n D u n es A c t i v i t i es :

1. C l i m b u p a n d r u n d o w n t h e d u n es

2. S w i m i n La k e M i c h i ga n

3. Tr y t o s p o t w i l d l i f e & C h i ca g o's s k y l i n e

4. Ta k e t h e Pass p or t t o t h e D u n e

s

5. C o nq u er t h e 3 D u n e C ha l l e n g e

6. Ca m p a n d ma k e s ' m or es

7. S l e d d o w n t h e d u n es ( n o s n o w n e e d e d )

8. Ea r n a J u n i or Ra n g er or Pa r k Pa t c h

9. F l y a k i t e i n t h e s k y

1 0. B u i l d sa n d ca s t l es( d o n ' t f or g e t b u c k e ts a n d s

h o v e ls )

( Na t i o na l La k es h or e )

(S ta t e Pa r k )

( B o t h )

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Indiana DunesNational Lakeshore The National Lakeshore offers manydifferent places to swim and playat the beaches or hike and explorethe trails. Embark on the Passport

to the Dunes program or becomea Junior Ranger by stopping at theVisitor Center and completing specialactivities. You can also meet anof cial ranger to hike and explore thedunes with an expert!

Parent Point: Call ahead for ranger-

guided tour schedule. Flotationdevices are allowed, and pets are only allowed (on leashes) east of the StatePark. Lifeguards only at West Beach.

Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-30 minutesafter sunset

Address: Seven different access pointsPhone: 219-926-1882Web: nps.gov/indu

Indiana DunesState Park

At the Dunes State Park, you canlearn about wildlife and shipwrecksin the Nature Center (featuring kidsactivities many days at 10 and 3 inthe summer), explore the 16.5 milesof trails, complete fun activities toearn a Park Patch,and see if youcan earn a sticker by conqueringthe 3 Dune Challenge, which takesyou through three of the tallestdunes in Indiana!

Parent Point: A per-car fee ischarged at the gate. Bathhouse and

beach are open the Saturday beforeMemorial Day through Labor Day.The park does not allow otation

devices, grilling or alcohol. Life- guards are on duty at the beach.

Hours: Mon-Sun 7am-11pm Address: 1600 North 25 EastChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-926-1952Web: in.gov/dnr/parklake/2980.htm3DuneChallenge.com

Parent Point: Beware of breaking waves at the beaches of the dunes. When the waves are high,Lake Michigan produces rip currents, which are

strong undercurrents that can carry ANYONEvery far from shore in just moments. Even strong

swimmers are in danger at these times. Staying away from these dangerous waves could save your life.

I NDI ANAD UNE S

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DINING

C h e c k o u t a l l t h e c o o l s c e n er y w h i l e

y o u f i l l y o ur b e l l y

w i t h ta s t y f o o d a t t h es e

a w es o m e r es ta ura n ts

Colada's PizzeriaSail away to Zao Island and enjoy pizza andgrinders in this island-themed restaurant get-away located in the middle of miniature golf,go-karts, an arcade and enough fun andgames to make you forget your troubles.Parent point: Located inside Zao IslandHours: Daily 10am-11pm

Address: 1050 Horseprairie Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46385Phone: 219-462-1194

Web: coladaspizza.com

Industrial RevolutionEatery & GrilleLook for the model train track running closeto the ceiling while you feast on all-Americanfare and are inspired by the tribute to the

American spirit. Kids eat free on Mondayswith an adult purchase.Hours: Sun-Thu 11am-9pmFri-Sat 11am-10pm

Address: 1084 Linwood Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-465-1801Web: industrialrevolutioneatery.com

D I N I N G D I N I N G

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Islamorada Fish Company Youll feel like youre eating in an underwaterwonderland, surrounded by large sh andhuge saltwater aquariums, all while lling

your tummy with some of the best seafoodyouve ever tasted.Parent point: Located inside BassPro ShopsHours: Mon-Thu 11am-9pmFri-Sat 11am-10pm Sun 11am-7pm

Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham DrivePortage, IN 46368Phone: 219-787-1800Web: shcompany.com

Kelsey's Steak House A local favorite, serving prime rib, hand-cutsteaks, seafood and more in both kid- andadult-sized portions. While youre there,dont forget to check out the famous giantcow statue out front.Parent Point: Closed MondaysHours: Tue-Thu 4-9pm Fri-Sat 4-9:30pm

Sun 4pm-9pm Address: 2300 Morthland Drive (US Highway 30) Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-465-4022Web: kelseyssteakhouse.com

Marti's Place At Ramsey's LandingEating outside has never been this cool, asyou can look out at the Kankakee River andfeed the sh swimming below.Parent Point: Seasonal outdoor diningHours: Sun-Thu 11am-9pmFri-Sat 11am-10pm

Address: 17519 North 700 WestHebron, IN 46341Phone: 219-996-3363Web: martisplace.com

The Port Drive-In Theres nothing quite like an old-schooldrive-in, and this is the only one in town.

You can chow down on a burger in the car,munch fries at a picnic table or slurp a shakein the dining room as carhops take yourorder. But dont forget to request a tall frostymug of homemade root beer!Parent point: Open seasonally (Mid-Marchto Mid-October), closed MondaysHours: Mon-Sun 10:30am-9pm(close at 8pm mid-September)

Address: 419 North Calumet DriveChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-926-3500Web: theportdrivein.net

IndianaDunes.com | 7

DI NI N G

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Dari-Dip, Inc.From soft-serve dipped cones to shakesto delicious food, you just gotta try it all!

They also have chocolate-covered bananasand cheesecake!Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-10pm

Address: 5469 Central AvenuePortage, IN 46868

Phone: 219-763-7002Web: daridip.com

Dog Days Ice Cream Parlor You dont need to travel overseas to ndgourmet gelatos and sorbettos, plusassorted Filberts sodas, coffee and tea.Just head on down to this shop and ndyour favorite avor!Parent point: Closed Mondays and Tuesdays

Hours: Tue-Fri 1pm-9pm Sat 11am-9pmSun 1pm-9pm

Address: 123 South Calumet RoadChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-707-6093Web: dogdaysicecream.com

I s cr ea m, y o u s cr ea m, w e a l l s cr ea m f or i c e

cr ea m, f u d g e, a n d

ca n d y fr o m t h es e

d e l i c i o us l o ca l s h o ps

S W E E T T R EA TS

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Kernels and KonesBefore or after you check out ValparaisosCentral Park Plaza and splash pad, head

next door to this cute shop and try their 15avors of homemade popcorn and FlavorBurst ice cream.Parent point: This shop is walk-in andcarry-out, so pick a spot to enjoy yourtreats at the park Hours: Tue-Wed 11am-7pm Thu-Sat 11am-8pmSun 11am-4pm

Address: 56 Indiana Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-299-2940Web: kernelsnkones.com

Molly Bea's INGREDIENTS This sweet-smelling paradise carries anumber of old-fashioned candies, along withmore than 1,000 ingredients in serve-it-up-yourself tubs: salty snacks, chocolates, can-dies and imported black and red licorices.Hours: Mon-Thu 10am-6pmFri-Sat 10am-5pm Sun 12pm-4pm

Address: 761 Indian Boundary RoadChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-983-9401Web: mollybeas.com

Pat's Ice Cream Parlor Taste one of the 48 avors of ChocolateShoppe Super-Premium Ice Cream and 12types of sprinkles at this shop on Valparai-sos main drag, then walk down the road tocheck out whats going on at Central Park.Hours: Mon-Thu 12pm-10pmFri-Sat 12pm-10:30pm Sun 12pm-9pm

Address: 222 East Lincolnway Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-5613Web: Find us on Facebook!

Sticky FingersSticky Fingers Candy Co. brings all your fa-

vorite classic candies, chocolates and fudgeto a shop next to Valparaisos Central Park,along with novelty items and ne chocolates.Call ahead on warm days to see if theyreserving cotton candy and popcorn!Hours: Tue-Sat 10am-7pm

Address: 54 Lafayette Street Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-510-5824Web: sticky ngerscandyco.com

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S W

E E TT RE AT S

Piggies and Cream at The Depot This cool, convenient location (in an oldrailroad depot) is sure to please with its deli-cious varieties of soft serve and homemade

hand-dipped ice cream, gourmet desserts,shakes, draft root beer and sandwiches.Hours from June-August: Tue-Sun 11am-9pmSept-May: Tue-Sat 11am-8pm

Address: 105 Railroad Street, Kouts, IN 46347Phone: 219-766-0263Web: birkyfarms.com

Valpo Velvet Ice Cream This creamy, velvety ice cream is whipped

up right inside of the building! Try the old-fashioned ice cream soda, or try the classicice cream that has been made in 70 differentavors! Valpo Velvet ice cream is sold in localstores and restaurants, but it tastes best rightat the shop! Youll love the behind-the-scenestour to see how it is made and packaged!Parent point: Call ahead to schedule a tour Closed January through MarchHours: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm Sun 12pm-9pm

Address: 55-57 West Monroe Street Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-464-4141Web: valpovelvet.com

YoAmazing Yogurt Shoppe This self-serve frozen yogurt shop offers tastytreats sold by the ounce. With 12 avors eachday, plus more than 50 toppings, you can mixand match to nd your perfect combination!

Hours: Mon-Sun 11am-10pm Address: 2620 LaPorte Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-9696Web: yoamazing.com

SweetvilleHomemade fudge is the crown jewel of thisscrumptious candy haven, but you can alsond lots of classic and modern candy, alongwith delicious cupcakes and cookies.Hours: Mon-Tue 8:30am-6pmWed-Sat 8:30am-8pm Sun 12pm-4pm

Address: 201 S Calumet AvenueChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-728-6154Web: Find us on Facebook!

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Camelot Bowling Center/SportsplexGet ready for some high-octane fun at thistricked-out sportsplex. Go bowling, shootsome pool, play games in the arcade or grabsome food at their on-site pizzeria.Hours: Mon-Thu 5pm-11pm Fri-Sat 5pm-12amSun 5pm-11pm

Address: 5201 US Highway 6Portage, IN 46368

Phone: 219-762-8558Web: camelotbowlingcenter.com

Ceramix 101 This paint-your-own ceramics studio offersentertainment for kids of all ages in a fun,creative environment. Once youve designedyour masterpiece, its a one-week turn-around for the knowledgeable staff to nishit. You can either pick it up in-store, or theycan ship it to youwho doesnt love gettinga masterpiece in the mail?Parent point: Closed Sundays and MondaysHours: Mon-Tue 3pm-8pm Wed-Fri 12pm-8pmSat 12pm-6pm

Address: 908 Roosevelt Road, Suite C Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-531-6536Web: ceramix101.net

Bass Pro Shops This 130,000-square-foot wonderlandhas a marina, indoor waterfalls, intricatedioramas and an arcade shooting gallery.

Take all day if youd likeBass Pro holdsfree workshops throughout the year thatpromote conservation and outdoorsy-typefun, like shing lessons for kids. And if youget hungry, you can grab a bite to eat atthe in-store Islamadora Fish Company.Parent point: Call ahead and check oncurrent workshop offeringsHours: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm Sun 10am-7pm

Address: 6425 Daniel Burnham DrivePortage, IN 46368Phone: 219-787-6800Web: basspro.com

W h e n i t's ra i n i n g a n d p o ur i n g, or w h e n y o u j us t

wa n t t o b ea t t h e h ea t a n d

s p e n d s o m e t i m e i n d o ors ,

t h es e a w es o m e p la c es

pr o v i d e c o u n t l ess h o urs

o f e n t er ta i n m e n t.

I N D O O R A C T I V I T I ES I N D O O R A C T I V I T I ES

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Cinemark 12 at ValparaisoWhen you just want to sit back and relax,this theater features 12 screens showingthe latest Hollywood blockbusters anda Kids Movie Camp. So settle in, grab atreat from the concession stand and enjoythe latest hot ick on the big screen.Hours: Sat-Sun 10am-Midnight

Address: 700 Porters Vale Boulevard Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-464-0260Web: cinemark.com

Hebron Lanes Tie on your bowling shoes, grab a ball

and hit the alleys at this 16-lane bowlingalley that has been in the area forgenerationsyoull see all ages hittingthe lanes. Enjoy a slice of pizza at theattached Bronkos Pizza.Hours: Mon-Tue & Thu 11am-5:30pmWed 11am-9pm Fri 11am-5:30pm(some lanes open later) Sat 1-11pmSun Noon-8pm

Address: 725 State Road 2

Hebron, IN 46341Phone: 219-996-7271Web: Find us on Facebook!

Hoosier Bat Company Some of baseballs biggest sluggers haveused bats made hereincluding theone Frank Thomas used to hit his 500th

career homer! See how more than 35,000custom bats are made each year for theWhite Sox, Mariners, Orioles, Indians,Brewers and YOU! Also pick up someunique accessories in your teams colors.Parent point: Must call ahead for toursHours: Mon-Fri 9am-5pm Sat by appointmentGift shop and tours by appointment only

Address: 4511 East Evans Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383

Phone: 219-531-1006Web: hoosierbat.com

Imaginations Unlimited This ceramic shop offers classes or youcan stop in and paint something you pickfrom their huge selection. You can alsopick up a ready-made gift.Hours: Mon Noon-5pm and 7-10pm

Wed-Fri 10am-4pm Sat (Oct 1-May 1)9am-Noon

Address: 612 Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-464-4647


I ND O O RA C TI VI TI E S

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Portage 16 IMAXSettle into the reclining seats, x your eyeson the 70-foot-wide-screen, immerse your-self in the digital surround sound and prepareto be blown away at the only IMAX theater inNorthern Indiana. The multiplex has 15 othernon-IMAX screens offering all the hot newblockbusters with all digital projection and allstadium seatingand their concession standhas unlimited free drink re lls and 50-centpopcorn re lls.Hours: Sat-Sun 10am-Midnight

Address: 6550 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368Phone: 219-764-2550Web: gqti.com

Imagine BeadsStop in and create a masterpiece at thisbead store. Kids and adults will enjoy pickingout beads and turning them into a necklace,bracelet or other work of art.Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu 10am-5pmWed, Fri 10am-6pm Sat 10am-4pm

Address: 103 E Morthland Drive (US 30) Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-299-2270Web: labeadalocabeads.com

Inman's Bowling and RecreationKnock down the neon pins while glow-bowling in the Cosmic Bowl, or try yourhand at billiards before spending hours in thearcade playing classic games and earningtickets for cool prizes. Take a break and grabsome food in the snack area before headingoutside for go-karts, mini golf and boats.Hours: Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun 1pm-10pmWed, Fri, Sat 1pm-12amWed-Sat 11am-midnight Sun 11am-10pm

Address: 3201 Evans Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-1300Web: inmansvalpo.com

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Porter County Museum of History Want to go to jail? Go the easy way by visit-ing this museum, located inside the former

jailhouse and home of the sheriff, built in1871. With both permanent and temporaryexhibits, you will learn something new everytime you visit!Hours: Wed-Sat 9am-5pm

Address: 153 South Franklin Street Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-465-3595

Web: pocomuse.org

R-way Skate CenterReady to roll? This indoor roller skating andinline skating facility offers skate rental, asnack bar, arcade and prize redemption cen-ter. Open only on the weekends, this is oneof the only places in the area for the simple

joy of rink skating.Parent point: Hours vary, call to con rmHours: Fri-Sun nights plus weekend afternoons

Address: 3600 Scottsdale RoadPortage, IN 46368Phone: 219-759-2556Web: Facebook/com/RWaySkateCenter


O UTD O O

RA C TI VI TI E S


Stagecoach Inn& Panhandle Depot

The Stagecoach Inn and Panhandle Depotare Hebron Historical Society museumslocated right next to each other. TheStagecoach Inn, built in 1849, featuresperiod items and community artifacts. ThePanhandle Depot was built in 1867 andhouses railroad memorabilia and an exhibit

on military service.Hours: June-September: Noon-3pm 1st and 3rdSundays of the month by appointmentOpen by appointment only the rest of the year

Address: 127 North Main StreetHebron, IN 46341Phone: 219-966-3192

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The Courts of Northwest IndianaCheck out The Courts for professional qualityhardwood basketball courts, hard-surfacetennis courts, outdoor sand volleyball, bat-ting cages and a concession standits thebest place to be if you want to burn off en-ergy playing your favorite game. You can rentan entire court, or just hit the batting cages.Hours: Mon-Sat 9am-9pm Sun 12pm-8pm

Address: 127 East US Highway 6 Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-465-1111Web: thecourtsofnwi.com

Valparaiso Fire MuseumLearn all about re ghting from the age ofleather buckets to the modern era of gaso-line re trucks. Guided tours of the museumand adjoining Task Force Tips re suppres -sion equipment company are available.Parent point: Call to reserve a tour; curator

is on site Tue and Wed Hours: Mon-Fri 9am-4pmCall in advance for tours

Address: 3701 Innovation Way Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-6161Web: tft.com

Valparaiso University BrauerMuseum of ArtCome to the campus of Valparaiso Univer-sity, stop in the Brauer Museum of Art andwander through seven galleries lled withmore than 3,000 pieces of 19th, 20th and21st-century American art and internationalreligious works. Exhibits are rotated on aregular basis.Parent point: Call to schedule a tour Hours: Tue-Sun 12pm-5pm

Address: Valparaiso University Centerfor the Arts

Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-464-5365Web: valpo.edu/artmuseum

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Westchester TownshipHistory MuseumLearn all about the history of the Dunelandarea from the Ice Age to the present. Themuseum is located inside the restored,historic George Brown Mansion and hostsmonthly public programs and a great giftshop with local souvenirs.Hours: Wed-Sun 1-5pm or by appointment

Address: 700 West Porter AvenueChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-983-9715Web: wpl.lib.in.us/museum

Zao Island Amusement ParkEngage in an epic battle inside Jungle QuestLaser Tag, take a spin on the big bumpercars, or compete for tickets and prizes on

dozens of fun arcade games! Take a breakwith some delicious pizza, locatedon-site, then head outside for mini golf,batting cages, go-karts and live alligators!Parent point: Outdoor activities are also

available, weather permittingHours: 10am-11pm

Address: 1050 Horseprairie Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46385Phone: 219-462-1194

Web: zaoisland.net


Visit IndianaDunes.com/eventsor pick up a map and ourCalendar of Events brochure at the Visitor Center.

P l a n a n d m a p o u t

y o u r t r i p a r o u n d o n

e

o f o u r g r e a t e v e n t s !

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O u t d o or f u n is n ' t j us t

a t t h e d u n es f i n d

e x c i t e m e n t a t a n y o f

t h es e s p o ts a n d j us t p la y,

a n d p la y, a n d p la y !

49er Drive-In TheatreExperience an outdoor movie at one of thetop ten drive-ins in the country! Have a rootbeer, hot dogs, nachos, popcorn, home-made pizza and more. You can eat in thecar and watch a movie out under the starsmovies dont get any better than this! Call formovies/show times.Parent point: Double features are shown

nightly from June-August, and on week-ends in April, May, September and October Operating season: Generally Easter weekendthrough October Movies shown 7 days a week from Memorial Dayweekend until school starts (usually 3rd week in

August); open weekends in April, May, Septemberand October Hours: Show starts at dusk; box of ce opens 60-90 minutes prior

Address: 675 North Calumet Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-6122Web: 49erdrivein.com

O U T D O O R A C T I V I T I ES O U T D O O R A C T I V I T I ES

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Bailly Homesteadand Chellberg FarmGo back in time at the site where JosephBailly, Porter Countys rst European settler,lived and set up shop as a fur trader in 1812.Chellberg Farm is a real working farm of the1800s era. You can see maple syrup tappedright from the tree and made before youreyesand even taste a sample.Parent point: Call to have the periodicalSinging Sands Almanac sent to you. It lists

many activities for children and families.There are open house programs for BaillyHomestead and Chellberg Farm every Sun-day, Memorial Day through October.Hours: Homes are open during programs andopen houses only. Call or visit website formore information

Address: Mineral Springs Road between USHighway 20 and US Highway 12, Porter, IN 46304Phone: 219-395-1882Web: nps.gov/indu/planyourvisit/bcvc.htm

Blastcamp Paintball This is hands-down the best paintball rangein the Chicagoland area, and its built on aretired Army base from the Cold War. There

are opportunities for open play or groups canmake reservations and rent the whole placefor a private game.Parent point: Call ahead for open play andtournament scheduleHours: Mon-Wed by appointmentThu-Fri 10am-5pm Sat-Sun 9am-4pm

Address: 563 West 600 North, Hobart, IN 46342Phone: 219-947-7733Web: blastcamp.com

Broken Wagon Bison FarmHop on board a tractor-pulled wagon to seethese beautiful beasts of the plains up close.See who can spot the biggest bison in theherd of more than 70, then stop and see thehandcrafts made from buffalo skins beforeyou leave.Open tours (no group or reservation needed)at 11am and 2pm each Saturday in June, July,

August and September. Group tours are alsoavailable by appointment at 219-759-3523Store hours: Mon-Sat 8am-5pm Sun 2pm-5pm

Address: 563 West 450 NorthHobart, IN 46342Phone: 219-759-3523Web: brokenwagonbison.com

Butterfly Meadows and CaterpillarCrossingDesigners from Little Tykes created this playarea to combine tness and learning. Youllsee butter y migration paths on an interac -tive map and push buttons to hear birdcallson-demand on a colorful playground slide.

Address: Foundation Meadows Park, 2310North Campbell Street (at the intersection ofCampbell Street and Bullseye Lake Road)

Valparaiso, IN 46385Phone: 219-462-5144Web: valparaisoparks.org


O UTD O O RA C TI VI TI E S

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Imagination GlenParkSpend a whole day in this 256-acrewooded park with a BMX racetrack, the 10-mile Outback Trail (great for mountain bikes),walking trails, sand volleyball courts, picnicshelters, and soccer and softball elds. Youcan also drop a line in Salt Creek and hook thecatch of the day!Parent point: No rental or on-site supervisionHours: Mon-Sun dawn-dusk

Address: 2275 McCool Road, Portage, IN 46383Phone: 219-762-1675Web: inportageparks.com

Inman's Bowling and RecreationSpeed through the Grand Prix go-kart track orsee who gets the rst hole-in-one on the minigolf course, then hit the water in the PaddleSoaker boats and challenge each other inbean bags. Head inside for some great food,bowling and an arcade.Hours: Wed-Sat 4pm-dusk

Address: 3201 Evans Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-1300Web: inmansvalpo.com

Illiana Garden Railway Society atSamuelson's Nursery Grab your conductors hat and imaginationand head to the large-scale miniature traindiorama at Samuelsons. The 600 feet of tracktravel through baseball elds, farmland, a goldmine and an industrial switchyard.Open May - SeptemberHours: Sat 10am-4pm

Address: 295 North State Road 2, Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-299-2996Web: illianaroad.com

Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve Try to spot frogs, sh, birds and exotic plantswhile hiking or biking through 5 miles of trails:short, long, paved paths, boardwalks, anddirt roads. Great for a picnicits natural,comfortable, and different every time!Hours: Mon-Sun Dawn-dusk

Address: 2401 Village PointChesterton, IN 46304Phone: 219-926-1842Web: coffeecreekwc.org

Countryside Park and AltonGoin MuseumWalk through the park, see really interestinghistorical relics from this region and check outthe Trager farmhouse, built in the late 1800s.Parent point: Open March-November,farmhouse open Saturdays only Hours: Museum is open Fridays and Saturdaysfrom 1pm-4pm

Address: 5250 US Highway 6, Portage, IN 46368Phone: 219-762-8349Web: inportageparks.com

Founders' Square Park Splash Pad(Slated to open in 2015)Have some fun splashing around, and lookfor other family activities and farmers marketshappening throughout the year.Open May-Sept

Address: Main St, Portage, IN 46368Phone: (219) 762-1675Web: inportageparks.com

Hawthorne ParkSee who can get the best score at the discgolf course, then check out sand volleyballand basketball courts, a baseball eld, a ga -zebo, picnic shelters and a community center.

Address: 500 Ackerman Drive, Porter, IN 46304Phone: 219-921-1687Web: townofporter.com/parks.htm

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King Hobbies This hobby shop sells and services radiocontrolled vehicles, airplanes and helicop-ters. And for $8 a day, you can drive yourradio-controlled vehicle around their 80- by180-foot outdoor racetrack. The 680-foot-long track is recon gured every few weeksand features a 14-foot-high drivers stand,numerous jumps and curves and a timingsystem. Spectators are welcome to watchfree of charge. They also have an indoorKyosho dNaNo track.Hobby shop hours: Tue-Thu 11am-7pm Fri11am-8pm Sat 10am-8pm Sun 10am-6pm

Track hours: Mon 7am-5pm Tue-Fri 7am-7pmSat 10am-8pm Sun 10am-6pm plus Wed andSat race days

Address: 413 East Archer Way Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-299-2088Web: kinghobbiesandraceway.com


O UTD O O

RA C TI VI TI E S

Midwest Sundowners Attend one of the open-to-the-public radiocontrolled aircraft events (9am to dusk thethird Saturday of the month in July, Augustand September) and youll see a miniatureair show. Or, if youre interested in trying thehobby, show up at 9am any Sunday: thatswhen they have instructors to let you try yourhand at ying one of their airplanes. Publiccan try their hand at ying from 9am-noonany Sundaytraining is free!

Air eld hours: Mon-Sun 10am-dusk, weatherpermitting (contact them to arrange a visit)

Air Shows: 9am-dusk the third Saturday of July

(War Birds), August (Family Fun Fly) or September(Big Birds - planes with 6- to 29-foot wingspans)Swap meet: 9am third Saturday in June

Address: County Road 650 West, just north ofCounty Road 450 North, Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 312-860-2012Web: midwestsundowners.com


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Seven Peaks Waterpark DunelandEnjoy 15 water slides, including four 70-footfree fall slides, as well as a 500,000-gallonwave pool, two kids areas with splash fea-tures and waterslides, group cabanas, localfood, and much more.Parent point: Call to learn about the manyweekend events and festivalsHours: Memorial Day weekend - Labor Dayweekend, Mon-Sat 11am-7pm

Address: 150 East US Highway 20Porter, IN 46304Phone: 260-627-4484Web: sevenpeaks.com/duneland

Steel Wheels BMX TrackFeel the rush of adrenaline at Indianas only

American Bicycle Association-sanctionedand designed outdoor track. It features a dirtracing track, concession area, announcingtower, staging area and nish line. Rent ahelmet and bike if you dont have your own.Parent point: Open to the public two days aweek during practice sessions for partici-

pants and all the time for spectators. Lo-cated in Imagination Glen Park. USABMXMembership may be required to practice.Portage track hours: Tue & Fri 6-9pm(May-September)

Address: 2190 State Road 149Portage, IN 46368Phone: 219-406-9833Web: steelwheelsbmx.com

Prairie Duneland TrailSee how many different woodland creaturesyou can spot as you walk, run, skate or rideyour bike along this extensive trail (or alonga few of the dirt short cuts that take youspeeding over hills and down trenches). Yourfamily can stop and have a picnic at one ofthe shelters along the way, from County LineRoad in Portage to Jackson Boulevard neardowntown Chesterton.

Address: Parking is available at various locationsincluding Countryside Park, WIllowcreek Road,

Airport Road and Imagination Glen Park Portage, IN 46368Phone: 219-762-1675Web: inportageparks.com

Rogers Lakewood Park This huge park has a challenging disc golfcourse that goes through trees, over a lake,across wide-open spaces and up and downhills. Flounder Skate Park is a popular spotfor in-line skaters and skateboarders. Youcan also sh along the shore, take a spin ona rowboat or paddleboat, hit the playground,or walk, bike, skate and run through differenttrails that wind around lakes in the forest.

There are also six shelters where you cantake a break from all the action!Parent point: No additional admission for disc

golf, but park gate fees apply. Discs availablefor sale during summer in park store.Hours: Mon-Sun Dawn-dusk

Address: 5230 North Meridian Road Valparaiso, INPhone: 219-462-5144Web: valparaisoparks.org

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Sunset Hill Farm County ParkExperience a relaxing day of fun or an action-packed festival at this authentic homesteadand former dairy farm, home to wagon ridesand goats. Marked trails through the woods,picnic areas, open play areas, playgroundequipment and a full schedule of uniqueevents await you.Parent point: Call to learn about the manyweekend events and festivalsHours: Mon-Sun Dawn-dusk

Address: 775 Meridian Road Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-465-3586Web: porterco.org

Taltree Arboretum & Gardens You have to experience the new Taltree Arboretum Railway Garden, a 2.5- acremodel railway garden that showcases inamazing detail the story of Americas rail-roads. Numerous trains run along the 3,000feet of track, and you might just see yourfavorite tank engine leading the way! Taltreeis also home to 3.5 miles of trails, a certi edMonarch butter y waystation, a rose garden,prairie, pond, a reforestation area, splashpad, and summer concerts.Parent point: Admission fees apply; RailwayGarden is open from May-October Summer hours (April through October):Mon-Sun 8am-7pmWinter hours (November through March):Mon-Sun 8am-4pmRailway garden hours (April through October):Mon-Sun 8am-7pm

Address: 450 West 100 North Valparaiso, IN 46385Phone: 219-462-0025Web: taltree.org

Valparaiso's Central Park PlazaGet wet in the refreshing splash pad, takeyour picture with the Orville Redenbacherstatue, and enjoy family activities likeconcerts, plays, a farmers market andsummer evening movies, right in the middleof restaurants and other cool stores.Hours (splash pad): 10:00am - 7:00 pm daily

Address: Lincolnway and Lafayette Street Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-5144Web: valparaisoparks.org

Valplayso Park A great playground where kids can spendhours climbing, sliding, crawling and running.Restrooms and picnic areas available.

Address: Glendale Boulevard, just east of

Roosevelt Road, Valparaiso, IN 46383Phone: 219-462-5144Web: valparaisoparks.org

Woodland Park This park has the Portage Skate Park, aplayground, boulder play area, natural areasfor walking, places to play sports, a dogpark, picnic areas, a war memorial and acommunity center.

Hours: Mon-Fri 8:30am-4:30pm Address: 2100 Willowcreek RoadPortage, IN 46368Phone: 219-762-1675Web: inportageparks.com

Zao Island Amusement ParkIts an adventureland with two miniature golfcourses, go-karts, bumper cars, battingcages, a giant slide and Gator Gladesthe

only place in the entire Midwest where youcan feed live baby alligators.Parent point: Coladas Pizzeria and more

activities are located insideHours: 10am-11pm

Address: 1050 Horseprairie Avenue Valparaiso, IN 46385Phone: 219-462-1194Web: zaoisland.net



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