Indiana Dunes
About 1 hr by car from Chicago
Tall sand dunes and swimmable beaches on Lake Michigan, with the skyline across the water.
Why locals go
A real beach day an hour away, or by South Shore train.
Visiting Chicago?
At 1 hr by car, it's easy to add a night or two here and still be back in Chicago for your flight home.
What to book
- Three Dune Challenge hike
- Beach day at the state park
- Brewery stop in Chesterton
Where to stay
One or two nights is enough for most people. Compare places to stay:
See hotels in Indiana DunesDate ideas
For two
- Sunset from the top of the dunes
- Picnic on the beach
With friends
- Three Dune Challenge together
- Beach bonfire (where permitted)
When to go
June to September.