Points of Interest between Chesterton, Indiana to Crown Point, Indiana

picture of Chesterton, Indiana

Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Road Trip from Chesterton, IN to Crown Point, IN

Are you planning a road trip from Chesterton, Indiana to Crown Point, Indiana? This 30-minute drive is filled with scenic views, historical landmarks, and exciting attractions that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

Did you know that the drive from Chesterton to Crown Point passes through what used to be the largest freshwater marsh in the United States? The Great Marsh, as it was known, was a vast wetland ecosystem that once covered over 32,000 acres. Today, much of the marsh has been drained for agricultural purposes, but there are still areas where you can see the wetland's diverse plant and animal life.

At the halfway point of Chesterton, IN, be sure to stop at the Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers 15 miles of beautiful beaches, sand dunes, and wetlands along the southern shore of Lake Michigan.

This 18-mile road trip should take around 30 minutes, but we recommend taking your time and making a day of it. Here are the top five places to visit on your road trip from Chesterton to Crown Point:

  1. The John Dillinger Museum Located in Crown Point, this museum is dedicated to the life and notorious crimes of America's most famous bank robber, John Dillinger. Visitors can see artifacts from Dillinger's life of crime, including weapons, clothing, and personal items, as well as learn about the FBI's efforts to capture him.

Point of interest recommendation: While you're in Crown Point, take a stroll through the historic downtown area, which features many well-preserved buildings from the early 1900s.

  1. Lake County Fairgrounds If you're traveling between July and August, don't miss the Lake County Fairgrounds in Crown Point, which hosts the annual Lake County Fair. This event includes a carnival, live music, food vendors, and of course, a variety of farm animals and livestock.

Point of interest recommendation: The fairgrounds are also home to a variety of other events throughout the year, including car shows, flea markets, and craft fairs.

  1. Deep River Waterpark Looking for a way to cool off on a hot summer day? Look no further than Deep River Waterpark in Crown Point. This family-friendly water park features a lazy river, wave pool, and a variety of water slides for all ages.

Point of interest recommendation: For thrill-seekers, we recommend the Dragonfly, a 50-foot-tall water slide that features a near-vertical drop.

  1. Mascot Hall of Fame Located in Whiting, just a short drive from Crown Point, the Mascot Hall of Fame is a unique museum dedicated to sports mascots from around the world. Visitors can learn about the history and significance of mascots, as well as see some of the most famous mascots up close.

Point of interest recommendation: Don't miss the "Fur Factor" exhibit, which features interactive displays that allow visitors to design their own mascot costumes.

  1. Three Rivers County Park If you're looking for an outdoor escape, be sure to visit Three Rivers County Park in Lake Station. This park features hiking and biking trails, a fishing pond, and picnic areas.

Point of interest recommendation: For a truly unique experience, be sure to visit the park's Disc Golf Course, which offers a challenging course set amongst the park's beautiful wooded areas.

In conclusion, this 18-mile road trip from Chesterton, IN to Crown Point, IN offers a wide variety of attractions to suit any traveler's interests. Whether you enjoy history, sports, water parks, or the great outdoors, there's something for everyone along this route. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!