20 Attractions to Explore Near Warren Woods State Park

Galien River County Park, is a treasured outdoor recreation area along the tranquil banks of the Galien River. Known for its spectacular aquatic and woodland flora, the park is popular among hikers, campers, and birdwatchers. With over 200 acres of park land featuring a picnic center, five miles of nature trails, and numerous fishing spots – including two boat launches – this scenic getaway provides countless opportunities to connect with nature and explore the beauty of local wildlife.

Warren Dunes State Park offers a breathtaking experience for outdoor adventurers. Upon arriving, visitors are overwhelmed by the beauty of its rolling sand dunes and the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan that surround it. Set on 1,952 acres and lined with miles of pristine sandy beaches, it's an ideal destination for swimming, kayaking, and sunbathing. The park also features several trails that wind through the forest-covered dunes offering spectacular views along the way.

The Buffalo Railroad Museum is a unique place for history buffs and families to explore. Located in the historic New Buffalo Train Depot, the museum houses interactive displays that tell the story of the area's railroad history from its earliest days in 1837. Visitors can explore replica locomotives and rolling stock, view a variety of historic artifacts from times past, listen to train whistles echoing through the air, and take photos with an antique steam engine as a setting.

New Buffalo Beach is a beautiful and popular vacation destination. With its miles of white sand and pristine blue waters, it is the ideal spot for family getaways. The beach offers a variety of activities, including swimming and kayaking, as well as the opportunity to explore local nature trails. Visitors can also enjoy restaurants that line the shoreline offering delicious seafood dishes. For those looking for more adventure, there are many great places to go fishing or boating.

The New Buffalo Welcome Center is a must-see tourist spot for anyone exploring the area. Not only will visitors find helpful information on sights and attractions in the county, but the welcome center itself provides an entertaining experience with its interactive history exhibits and displays of local artwork. For those looking further afield, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, offering personal insights into some of Michigan's hidden gems.

Mud Lake Bog Nature Preserve is a unique natural wonder with a vast diversity of wildlife and plant life. Spanning over 250 acres, it is the largest Atlantic white cedar swamp known in the state of Michigan. The preserve’s diverse habitats provide habitat for great blue herons, sandhill cranes, beavers, muskrats and river otters among others. Aside from aquatic mammals, the preserve is also home to several snakes and turtles as well as rare insect species like wood nymph butterflies.

Welcome to Bendix Woods, a natural oasis nestled in the heart of Indiana, offering a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a tranquil escape. Established to preserve and celebrate the beauty of the natural world, Bendix Woods provides a diverse range of recreational opportunities and immersive experiences for all.

Grand Mere State Park is a great destination for outdoor recreation and beach fun. Featuring spectacular views of Lake Michigan, the 1,200-acre park combines sandy beaches with miles of trails that lead through wetland areas and rolling dunes. Popular activities include fishing along the shoreline, biking on two miles of dedicated trails and swimming in the lake’s shallow waters. There is a convenient campground with tent and RV sites available.

Fernwood Botanical Garden, is a stunning natural haven perfect for a day of exploration. Spanning nearly 70 acres, the lush landscape offers plenty of room to roam and take in the breathtaking nature around you. You can traverse though landscaped gardens or morning glory-draped arbors, become mesmerized by an array of seasonal blooms in our Perennial Garden or explore eight different habitats each with their own distinctive flora and fauna.

The Blue Chip Casino Hotel Spa in Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, is a popular entertainment destination known for its gaming, accommodations, dining options, and spa facilities.As a casino, Blue Chip offers a diverse gaming experience, featuring a wide array of slot machines, table games like poker, blackjack, roulette, and craps, catering to gaming enthusiasts. The casino also hosts high-limit areas for those seeking a more exclusive gaming atmosphere.

Washington Park in Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, is a scenic and vibrant recreational area offering a variety of amenities and attractions.This expansive park spans along the shores of Lake Michigan, providing beautiful sandy beaches, walking paths, and scenic views of the lake. It serves as a popular destination for outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beach volleyball.

The Lubeznik Center for the Arts, stands as a vibrant cultural hub and a focal point for arts and creativity in the region.This center plays a crucial role in promoting and showcasing various forms of contemporary art, including visual arts, exhibitions, performances, and educational programs. The facility features galleries that host rotating exhibitions showcasing local, regional, and national artists, allowing visitors to experience diverse artistic expressions.

St. John's Lutheran Church and School in Indiana stands as a prominent religious and educational institution within the community.It serves as a hub for both spiritual guidance and educational excellence, contributing significantly to the religious, educational, and communal fabric of the local area.

The Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse, located in Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, stands as an iconic maritime structure along Lake Michigan's shoreline.Built in 1904, this historic lighthouse served as a navigational aid for ships entering the harbor, guiding vessels safely along the coastline. It features a distinctive red cylindrical tower made of steel, topped with a white lantern room housing the light.

The Barker Mansion, located in Michigan City, LaPorte County, Indiana, is an architectural gem and historic landmark that offers a glimpse into the region's affluent past.Built in 1857 by businessman John H. Barker, the mansion is an exquisite example of late-Victorian architecture, featuring a blend of architectural styles, including Gothic, Renaissance, and Queen Anne elements. It served as the Barker family's residence for several generations.

Mount Baldy is a towering sand dune within the Indiana Dunes National Park, located in LaPorte County, Indiana. It's one of the most iconic landmarks within the park.Rising 126 feet above Lake Michigan, Mount Baldy offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area and the lake. Its unique landscape includes shifting sands and diverse plant life, creating a dynamic and ever-changing environment.

Indiana Dunes National Park, situated in LaPorte County along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, is a natural treasure featuring diverse ecosystems, stunning landscapes, and recreational opportunities.The park encompasses over 15,000 acres of diverse habitats, including sandy beaches, towering sand dunes, wetlands, forests, and prairies. It's home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species, making it a haven for biodiversity.

Lookout Park, is the perfect place for a picnic or a summer day adventure. The park offers spectacular views featuring rugged cliffs that plunge into the expansive Lake Michigan. Visitors can cool off in the crystal clear water at the beach or explore the numerous trails to discover wildflowers and wildlife. Additionally, there are several covered pavilions throughout where people can stop and enjoy lunch or an outdoor event before continuing along their trek.

Riverfront Park set along the banks of the St. Joseph River showcases stunning views of nature and idyllic waterways. Offering splash pads, playgrounds, grills, and pavilions, families can enjoy all the amenities and activities that this beautiful riverside location has to offer. An added bonus—admission is free! Whether you’re looking to have a picnic lunch or spend the day outdoors fishing in peace and quiet, Riverfront Park is sure to make your summer daydreams come true.

Fort St. Joseph was a military installation that existed in Berrien County, Michigan from 1691 to 1781. It was built by French soldiers during the French-Indian War and served as both a trading post and a military fort for many years. The fort saw much conflict throughout its existence, and faced attacks from Pontiac's Rebellion in the 1760s. After the war ended, it eventually went into disrepair and was abandoned in 1781.