Things to do in Chesterton

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Chesterton

Types of activities

Where to stay

Chesterton travel guide

Viewed on an early Spring day, a wooden staircase along a sandy hillside at Indiana Dunes National Park, near Chesterton, IN.

On a cloudy day in early Springtime, the view of Lake Michigan and the sandy dunes at Indiana Dunes State Park, near Chesterton, IN.

Indiana Dunes National Park Kemil Beach and Dunbar Beach area. Sunbathers on a rocky beach of Lake Michigan.

Lake Michigan. Path off Trail 9 at one place leads right to the lake. Peaceful to just stand and watch and listen to the waves as they crash to the shore. Trail 9 is the trail to hike if one wants to see the most in the shortest time. Great views throughout the trail. The trail is over 3 miles long and is considered a moderate trail. But certainly worth it. One gets to hike through forest, dunes, and other natural environments and see such a variety of sights.
#hiking

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What to do in Chesterton

Popular places to visit

Indiana Dunes State Park

The southern shores of Lake Michigan consist of a stunning dune landscape, which is ideal for hiking, camping, bird-watching, picnicking and swimming.

Indiana Dunes Visitor Center

Explore the great outdoors at Indiana Dunes Visitor Center, a lovely green space in Porter. Wander the beaches and forests in this family-friendly area.

Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy sign in Chesterton, Indiana USA

Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy Preserve

Explore the great outdoors at Coffee Creek Watershed Conservancy Preserve, a lovely green space in Chesterton. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its cosy cafes.

Michigan lake was a favorite stop and very much like the beach

Waverly Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Waverly Beach during your trip to Chesterton? Stroll along the beaches or visit the shops in the area.

Bailly Homestead - American Indians and Fur Traders

You can find out about the history of Porter with a trip to Bailly Homestead - American Indians and Fur Traders. Wander the beautiful beaches and lakeside in the area.

Chellberg Farm

You can find out about the history of Porter when you stop by Chellberg Farm. Wander the beautiful beaches and lakeside in the area.

Lustron House

Find out about the history of Chesterton with a stop at Lustron House. Wander the area's beautiful beaches or simply enjoy one of its cosy cafes.

Dune Acres Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Dune Acres Beach during your trip to Dune Acres? Wander the beaches and lakeside while you're in the area.

Ridge Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Ridge Beach during your trip to Dune Acres? Wander the beaches and lakeside while you're in the area.

Areas of Chesterton

Porter Beach

While visiting Porter Beach, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Michigan and Waverly Beach.

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

Cloudy daytime photo of Indiana Dunes National Park with a sand dune in the background and pond in the foreground, panorama

Westville

Frequently asked questions

Is Chesterton worth visiting?

Whether you're coming to discover the cultural highlights and local charm or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Chesterton.

How do I spend a day in Chesterton?

Kick your day off with a visit to Portage Lakefront Beach and West Beach. Then, tour other areas of Chesterton for tasty eats and a little retail therapy.

What is the top tourist attraction in Chesterton?

The top tourist attraction in Chesterton is Portage Lakefront Beach, so don't forget to put it on your sightseeing list.

Is three days enough to stay in Chesterton?

Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, including Portage Lakefront Beach, Dune Acres Beach and Founders' Square Park. The average stay in Chesterton is two days. If you have the time to extend your getaway, Merrillville isn't far away.

What are some activities to do in Chesterton with kids?

If you are after tours and attractions for all of your group, have a look at these excellent ideas for what to do in Chesterton with kids.

What to do in Chesterton for adults?

Whether you're a culture enthusiast, avid foodie or outdoor adventurer, there's a range of things to do in Chesterton for adults.

Are there free things to do in Chesterton?

One of the simplest ways to discover free things to do in Chesterton is to speak with a local tour guide. You'll get insider tips on exciting neighbourhoods, parks and other attractions you can experience without getting your cash out. Portage Lakefront Beach is one spot that doesn't charge an admission fee.