A local’s guide on where to eat in Valparaiso, Indiana. This small city has a surprising lineup of great restaurants to choose from. A local’s guide on where to eat in Valpo.
Crown Point is one of the best cities to visit in Northwest Indiana. It features an attractive town square surrounded by several great restaurants and shops. It was also the scene of a legendary jailbreak by one of the most notorious gangsters in American history.
Downtown Michigan City, Indiana, has some great attractions for visitors. Among them are parks, art galleries, shopping, and museums.
Fair Oaks Farms is one of the largest dairy farms in the United States and a great place to learn about farming. With three “adventures” and tours seven days a week, it’s perfect for families and visitors of all ages. It’s located in northern Indiana and offers daily tours and activities.
La Porte, Indiana, contains several historic buildings and homes. Most are located along Lincolnway, Michigan, and Indiana Avenues.
The tiny town of Westville, Indiana, isn’t worth going out of your way to see. If you’re passing through, there are a couple minor points of interest. It’s located between Valparaiso and La Porte.
Hobart is a friendly town in Northwest Indiana. It has a pleasant, small downtown worth checking out if you’re in the area. There are also some great family-friendly activities a short drive from downtown.
NOTE: Amish Acres closed at the end of 2019. It was sold and reopened on May 15, 2020, as The Barns at Nappanee. They plan to focus on events, festivals, and food. I’ll write a separate page for the new business when I have a chance to visit.
Amish Acres is a historic farm and park located in Nappanee, Indiana. It’s centered around the Stahly-Nissley-Kuhns Farmstead, which was built in 1873. The farm was purchased in 1968 and Amish Acres opened to the public in 1970 in order to enlighten and educate outsiders about the Amish way of life.
Nappanee is a town in the heart of Indiana’s Amish country. The main attraction is Amish Acres, but it’s nice to stop in the small downtown. (NOTE: Amish Acres closed at the end of 2019 and reopened on May 15, 2020, as The Barns at Nappanee.)
It’s obvious Gary has seen better days. One of the best (or worst) examples of urban blight in America, this once beautiful but tough city is, sadly, better known for its high crime rate than its past. Both of my parents were born and grew up in Gary, and both moved out in the late 1970s. Every time we drive through together, it evokes wonderful memories along with sadness to see what their hometown has become.