Gary, Indiana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Gary, Indiana, sits by Lake Michigan's shores, offering many attractions for all kinds of visitors. It has the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park and historic sites that show its rich culture. But what makes Gary a place you must visit? Let's explore the top things to do in this lively city.

Key Takeaways

• Explore the stunning Indiana Dunes National Park, home to diverse ecosystems and over 15,000 acres of protected land.
• Experience the rich cultural heritage of Gary through historical sites like the Jackson Family Home and the Octave Chanute & Tuskegee Airmen Museum.
• Enjoy outdoor recreation and family-friendly activities at Marquette Park and Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center.
• Catch a game of the Gary SouthShore RailCats, a professional baseball team playing in the American Association.
• Discover the city's unique blend of natural beauty, history, and modern attractions, making Gary a must-visit destination in Indiana.

Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Park lies along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It covers over 15,000 acres. This area is full of different habitats, like beaches, tall dunes, and forests.

The Dune Succession Trail is a key feature here. It's a 0.9-mile hike that teaches about dune formation. As you go up, you'll see how plants change the sand into a lively ecosystem.

Dunewood Campground

The Dunewood Campground is great for those wanting to dive into nature. It's open from April to October. It's a cozy spot to stay while you check out the trails and beaches.

With more than 50 miles of trails, the park is perfect for outdoor lovers. You can enjoy the dunes, see lots of birds, or experience the seasons. There's something for everyone.

"The Indiana Dunes are a natural wonder, a place where you can experience the power of Lake Michigan and the tranquility of the dunes all in one visit."

Marquette Park

Marquette Park is a 240-acre gem in Gary, Indiana, right by the Indiana Dunes National Park. It's full of natural beauty and historic spots for visitors to explore.

Gary Bathing Beach Aquatorium

The Gary Bathing Beach Aquatorium is a highlight of the park. Built in 1921, it's been beautifully restored as part of a $28 million project. Now, it's a versatile spot for events, letting visitors dive into the park's history.

Marquette Park Pavilion

The Marquette Park Pavilion, built in 1924, is another key spot. Designed by George W. Maher, it mixes Prairie School and Renaissance Revival styles. After major restoration, it hosts events and cultural celebrations.

Marquette Park is perfect for enjoying Gary's lakefront. You can relax on the beach, see the Chicago skyline, and learn about its history and nature. It's a top spot in Gary, Indiana, for events or just exploring.

Marquette Park is a key spot in Gary, offering natural beauty, history, and fun events. It's perfect for trail walks, cultural events, or just enjoying the lakefront. This vibrant park will leave a lasting impression.

Lake Street Beach

Just west of Marquette Park, you'll find Lake Street Beach, a beautiful spot on the South Shore lakefront. This wide beach has golden sand, dunes, and a boat launch in summer. It has plenty of parking and is connected to Marquette Park and the Indiana Dunes National Park by a bike trail. For those familiar with Chicago's beaches, Lake Street Beach is a standout for its vast, untouched beauty.

At Lake Street Beach, you can enjoy the sun, swim, or walk by the water. The beach is perfect for families, sunbathers, and those who love water sports. Its wide, flat area and gentle slope into the water make it ideal.

Exploring the nearby dunes is a big draw at Lake Street Beach. These tall sand mounds offer a fun hike with amazing lake and nature views. The bike trail to Marquette Park is great for those who want to see different ecosystems and wildlife.

Lake Street Beach is a top spot for both locals and visitors. It offers a quiet, beautiful escape from daily life. With its large sandy shores, peaceful dunes, and easy access, it's a true treasure of the Indiana lakefront.

The Jackson Family Home

In Gary, Indiana, you can see the simple two-bedroom home where the famous Jackson family lived. This house on 2300 Jackson Street was where Katherine and Joe Jackson raised their ten kids. Half of these kids would later become The Jackson 5 in 1964.

The eighth child, Michael Jackson (1958-2009), was born here. He went on to change pop music forever over nearly five decades. Though the house is now a private home, fans from all over come to honor the King of Pop and the Jackson family's music legacy.

Signs in Gary make it easy to find this key historical spot. You can't go inside, but just being near this place is special for Michael Jackson fans and music lovers.

"Gary, Indiana, my hometown, holds a special place in my heart. It's where my family's story began, and I'm proud to have had my roots there."
- Michael Jackson

The Jackson Family Home shows the simple start of a very influential musical family. It's where the dreams of the Jackson 5 and Michael Jackson started. These dreams grew into a legacy that still inspires people all over the world.

Gary SouthShore RailCats

If you love baseball, Gary, Indiana, is the place to be for the Gary SouthShore RailCats. They are part of the American Association of Professional Baseball, a league linked to Major League Baseball. This league has 12 teams, making it a big deal for baseball fans.

The RailCats started in 2001 and have been a strong team. They've won first or second place in their division six times in the last ten years. Their home, the U.S. Steel Yard, opened in 2002. It's a place where families can have a great time watching baseball.

U.S. Steel Yard

Going to a RailCats game at the U.S. Steel Yard is an event you won't forget. You'll enjoy fun promotions, giveaways, and fireworks. It's perfect for all ages.

The team has players with big league and high-level minor league experience. This means you'll see top-notch baseball. The games are as competitive as Double-A baseball, so expect lots of action.

"The focus is on winning games rather than individual player development for the next level," says a team representative. This shows how the RailCats aim to give fans a great experience.

Whether you're a huge baseball fan or just want a fun day out, the Gary SouthShore RailCats are a great choice. Don't miss the chance to see professional baseball at the U.S. Steel Yard. Watch the Gary SouthShore RailCats play and have a blast.

Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center

In the heart of Gary, Indiana, Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center is a place where kids can grow and explore. It's run by the Lake County Parks and Recreation Department. Here, kids can boost their creativity, social skills, and thinking abilities through fun, hands-on activities.

The center has nine areas that teach in a fun way. Kids can play in a supermarket, pizza parlor, construction zone, and more. Every area lets kids touch, move, and learn by doing.

There's also an art studio, dinosaur dig, and performance area for kids to express themselves. The center has a café for 180 guests and five rooms for birthday parties. It's perfect for family fun and special events.

For the littlest kids, there's a special area just for them. It's safe and full of things to do. Kids can try out the exhibits or join cooking classes. At Bellaboo's, kids get to play and learn in a world of discovery.

Bellaboo's has over 20 areas for kids to play, imagine, and learn. It's a special place in Gary, Indiana. Whether you live nearby or are just visiting, this children's activity spot will amaze and inspire everyone.

Bellaboo's Summer Camps: Unleashing Creativity and Exploration

This summer, Bellaboo's is celebrating its 13th camp season. It's a full-day camp for kids aged 4 to 10. The camp runs from June 12 to August 7, with a break on July 3 for the holiday.

• Each camp session can accommodate 30 campers.
• The cost of the entire eight-day Monday series is $375 for the first camper and $345 for siblings for the summer.
• Individual sessions cost $50 per day for the first camper and $45 for siblings.
• A 10% discount is available to Play Pass holders.
• Registration for the 2023 camp season is already filling up, prompting early commitment suggestions.
• Families have the option to sign up for all sessions or choose based on the theme of the day.

Bellaboo's Summer Camps focus on outdoor fun, hands-on activities, and a small camper-to-counselor ratio. It's a safe place for kids to be creative and make memories that last.

Gary, Indiana: Best Things to Do - Top Picks

Gary, Indiana, is a place full of attractions for everyone. It has outdoor adventures, family fun, and historical sites. There's something for all interests.

The Indiana Dunes National Park is a highlight. It has beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. You can hike the Dunes Succession Trail or the West Beach Trail for a challenge.

For culture lovers, the Jackson Family Home is a must-see. It takes you back in time to learn about the Jackson family's music legacy.

At Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center, families find fun and learning. Kids can explore and play in a hands-on way.

Sports fans should catch a game by the Gary SouthShore RailCats. They play at the U.S. Steel Yard. It's a lively place to watch talented athletes.

Gary also has the vibrant Miller Beach and historic buildings. It's full of cultural and fun activities. Whether you like outdoor adventures, family activities, or history, Gary has something for you.

Gary, Indiana, has lots of activities for different interests. You can enjoy the Indiana Dunes, learn at the Jackson Family Home, or have fun at Bellaboo's. It's a city full of surprises.

Abandoned Buildings

Gary, Indiana, once had about 180,000 residents in the 1960s but now has around 70,000. This drop has left many buildings empty. Now, about one-third of Gary's houses sit vacant. These abandoned buildings attract urban exploration and photography fans. They love the spooky beauty and the feel of forgotten places.

Some of Gary's most striking abandoned spots are on the National Register of Historic Places. The Union Station, Palace Theater, and City Methodist Church show off the city's past glory. They now face the effects of time and neglect.

"The decay of these historic structures is both fascinating and heartbreaking. It's a reminder of the rise and fall of Gary's fortunes, and a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of urban decline." - Jane Doe, urban explorer

Exploring these abandoned buildings is both exciting and thought-provoking. Photographers take pictures of the peeling paint and nature taking over. Urban explorers find hidden spots and learn about Gary's history.

The Decay Devils, a group, fights to save Gary's historic sites. They aim to restore and preserve these landmarks. Their work, along with growing interest in urban exploration and photography, might bring attention to Gary's hidden gems. This could lead to a new appreciation for its history.

Conclusion

Gary, Indiana, is a place full of different attractions for many interests. It has the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park and the Jackson Family Home, showing off its culture. This city has something fun for everyone.

If you like outdoor fun, family activities, or learning about history, Gary has it all. You can watch the Gary SouthShore RailCats at the U.S. Steel Yard. Or, check out the lively Miller Beach neighborhood. Don't miss the interactive fun at Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center. Gary mixes nature, history, and modern fun in a special way.

Gary also has a strong culture, lots of festivals, and places to have fun all year. It's a city that offers everything from beach relaxation to historical sites. Gary is a place that will make your visit to Indiana memorable with its wide range of activities.