| Tourism and Recreation |
The singing sands of the majestic Indiana Dunes have beckoned to visitors for more than a century. Chesterton has long been known as the "Gateway to the Dunes," the Midwest’s premier tourist attraction, drawing more nearly two million visitors per year. The Dunes area presents miles of golden beaches, a selection of flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth, and a magnificent topography of glacial marshes and forests crowned by awesome dunes. Whether enjoying the surf on a hot summer’s day or traversing a trail on cross country skis, guest in these Dunes are certain to create memories of a lifetime. Shopping, Lodging, Fun! Less than three miles from the border of the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and the entrance to the Indiana Dunes State Park, Chesterton is a quaint getaway destination for beach and nature lovers. With a variety of lodging options, great shopping, first class golf, a full spectrum of dining experiences, and a small town atmosphere, visitors will find this town a welcoming retreat from the big city. Known as an artistic community, Chesterton is an aficionado’s dream come true with art galleries and antique shops, and historical sites – all staffed by downright friendly people. Our annual festivals, which attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, include the Oz Fest, the Chesterton Art Fair, several historic and entertaining events sponsored by the National Lakeshore, and more. Other events happening in our town throughout the year include:
|