Weekend Getaway Itinerary: Best Things to Do in LaPorte County, Indiana
- Take A Backroad Travel
- Jul 23, 2025
- 3 min read
Looking for a Midwest road trip full of charm, lakeside views, and small-town adventure? Welcome to LaPorte County, Indiana—where steam trains still run, lighthouses light the way, and lavender fields meet paintball castles. This 3-day itinerary is perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers exploring hidden gems along Indiana’s northern shore.
Listen to things to do in LaPorte County and beyond in the podcast episode:
Day 1: Trains, Lavender & Theater in LaPorte
Morning: Ride the Rails at Hesston Steam Museum
Start your weekend at the Hesston Steam Museum, a must-see attraction for history buffs and families alike. Ride three different steam-powered railways, tour vintage sawmills, and explore turn-of-the-century machinery. Don't miss their themed events:
Haunted Ghost Train (October)
Santa’s Candy Cane Express (December)
Location: 1201 E 1000 N, La Porte, IN🎟 Admission: Suggested donation or ticketed for special events
Afternoon: Lavender Fields & Local Shopping
Head to Lakeside Lavender and Herbs, where you can stroll a real lavender labyrinth and browse natural wellness products in their boutique. Afterward, explore Downtown LaPorte’s charming shops, galleries, and antique stores.
Dinner: Where to Eat in LaPorte
Mucho Mas! – Creative modern Mexican, locally loved
The Timber – Elevated Midwestern eats with rustic charm
Round the Clock – Classic diner with comfort food faves
Evening: Catch a Show at La Porte Little Theatre Club
One of Northwest Indiana’s oldest theaters, the La Porte Little Theatre Club has been entertaining locals since 1924 with musicals, dramas, and community productions.
Day 2: Lake Michigan Views, Zoos & Gardens
Morning: Michigan City Zoo & Beach Time
Spend your morning at the Washington Park Zoo, a 15-acre hilltop zoo featuring tigers, exotic birds, and unbeatable views of Lake Michigan.
Walk next door to Washington Park Beach to soak up the sun or picnic by the shore, then tour the nearby Old Lighthouse Museum, open April–October.
Don’t Miss: Michigan City Pier & Lighthouse
Snap photos at the 1904 Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse, one of the most photographed sites on Lake Michigan. The sunsets here? Incredible.
Lunch: Best Bites in Michigan City
Dune Billies - a beachy spot with American breakfast and lunch dishes
Shoreline Brewery – House-brewed beer & hearty Midwest fare
Afternoon: Gardens or Action Adventure
Friendship Botanic Gardens – Themed gardens from around the world; open May–October
Sherwood Forest Paintball – 80 acres of paintball with medieval castles and forest fields
Day 3: U-Pick Farms & Clydesdale Encounters
Morning: Farm Market Fun
Explore LaPorte County’s agricultural gems:
Garwood Orchards – Apple picking, wagon rides, homemade treats
Burek Farms – Family-run produce market since 1965
Indiana Blueberries – Organic U-pick blueberry farm in Potawatomi Park
Afternoon: Visit the Gentle Giants
End your weekend at Sandy Acres Clydesdales. Book a private visit to meet and interact with these majestic horses—perfect for animal lovers and families.
Where to Stay in LaPorte County
Blue Heron Inn – Lakeside lodging with beautiful views
Tryon Farm Guest House – Eco-friendly B&B surrounded by nature trails
Chain hotels and Airbnbs also available in both LaPorte and Michigan City
Why Visit LaPorte County?
One of Indiana’s few counties with Lake Michigan shoreline
Offers historic attractions, lakeside recreation, and farm experiences
Less than 90 minutes from Chicago or South Bend, ideal for a weekend trip
Plan Your Trip
For up-to-date events, seasonal festivals, and dining guides, visit:🔗 Visit Michigan City LaPorte
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