Lake County - 30 Attractions You Must Visit

Ameristar Casino in East Chicago, located in Lake County, Indiana, is a prominent entertainment destination offering a wide array of gaming options, amenities, and accommodations.This casino features a large gaming floor with a diverse selection of slot machines, table games like blackjack, roulette, and poker, as well as a high-limit room for those seeking a more exclusive gaming experience.

Buckley Homestead, situated in Lake County, Indiana, stands as a preserved historical site offering visitors a glimpse into pioneer life in the 19th century.The homestead features original buildings and structures that belonged to the Buckley family, showcasing the lifestyle and activities of early settlers in the region. These include a farmhouse, barns, a granary, a smokehouse, and other outbuildings, all reflecting the agricultural practices and daily life of the time.

Carlson Oxbow Park is an 89 acres nature park located in the Hessville neighborhood of Hammond, Indiana, along the north bank of the Little Calumet River and immediately south of the Borman Expressway. It takes its name from a sharp bend in the Little Calumet that was left behind when the river was straightened in the 20th century, forming an oxbow lake.

The Cathedral of the Holy Angels, located in Gary, Indiana, stands as a significant religious and architectural landmark within the community.Constructed in the mid-20th century, the cathedral showcases striking modernist architecture, designed by renowned architect Joseph W. McCarthy. Its distinctive features include a unique circular design, modernist elements, and stained glass windows that create a serene and spiritual atmosphere within the church.

The City Methodist Church, located in Gary, Indiana, is a historic structure that stands as a striking symbol of the city's past and architectural grandeur.Constructed in the 1920s, this imposing Gothic-style church was designed by architects Lowe & Bollenbacher and modeled after English cathedrals. It was an ambitious project, boasting intricate stonework, towering spires, and expansive interiors.

The Crown Point Bridge in Lake County, Indiana, is a significant structure that spans the Cedar Creek and connects the city of Crown Point with the surrounding areas. This historic bridge has served as a key transportation link, allowing for vehicular traffic to cross the creek.

The Erie Lackawanna Trail in Indiana is a recreational trail that spans across multiple counties, offering a scenic route for walking, jogging, biking, and other outdoor activities.Stretching along the former Erie Lackawanna Railway corridor, the trail covers a significant distance, providing a path for both recreational and commuter purposes. Its surface is typically paved or made of finely crushed stone, offering a smooth and accessible route for users.

The First Baptist Church in Hammond, Indiana, is a prominent religious institution with a rich history and significance within the community.Established in the late 19th or early 20th century, the First Baptist Church has been a cornerstone of the local religious landscape. It has served as a place of worship, community engagement, and spiritual guidance for its congregation.

The First Unitarian Church of Hobart is a religious institution that holds a distinct place within the community.Established as a Unitarian congregation, the church represents a liberal religious tradition that emphasizes individual spiritual exploration, social justice, and inclusivity.

The Gary Bathing Beach Aquatorium is a historic landmark located in Gary, Indiana, along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Built in the 1920s, it served as a dual-purpose facility, combining a beachfront recreational space with an indoor swimming venue.

The Hobart Nature District in Lake County, Indiana, is a preserved natural area that offers a haven for biodiversity, outdoor enthusiasts, and educational opportunities. This conservation area comprises diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, wetlands, meadows, and ponds.

The Hobart Nature District is located in the City of Hobart, Indiana and includes over 1,000 acres (400 ha) of scenic parks, wetlands and floodplains, winding rivers, peaceful lakes, open prairies, oak savannas, old-growth forests, and undulating ravines.[

The Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve, located in Griffith, Indiana, is a protected natural area that showcases a unique and diverse ecosystem characteristic of the region's prairies and wetlands.Spanning approximately 1,547 acres, this preserve is dedicated to conserving and showcasing the rare remnants of tallgrass prairies, wetlands, and savannas that were once prevalent across Indiana.

Horseshoe Hammond, located in Lake County, Indiana, is a renowned casino and entertainment complex that draws visitors with its extensive gaming options, dining venues, and live entertainment.

Illiana Motor Speedway, located in Lake County, Indiana, was a popular auto racing facility known for its thrilling races and entertainment for motorsports enthusiasts. This speedway hosted a variety of racing events, including stock car races, sprint car competitions, and other motorsport tournaments.

Indiana Dunes National Park, situated in Lake County, Indiana, along the southern shore of Lake Michigan, is a stunning natural gem and one of the country's newest national parks.

The LaSalle Fish and Wildlife Area in Indiana is a vast natural reserve dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor recreation, and environmental education.Encompassing approximately 3,797 acres, this expansive area consists of diverse habitats, including marshes, woodlands, grasslands, and wetlands. These habitats support a wide array of plant and animal species, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife observers.

Majestic Star Casino, located in Lake County, Indiana, is a popular gaming destination offering a range of entertainment options for visitors.The casino boasts a diverse gaming floor with numerous slot machines, table games like blackjack, poker, roulette, and craps, providing an array of options for gaming enthusiasts. Additionally, the casino has a high-limit area for those seeking a more exclusive gaming experience.

Marquette Park in Gary, Indiana, is a historic and culturally significant area. It's known for its beautiful lakefront setting along Lake Michigan, offering stunning views and recreational opportunities. The park features a beach, picnic areas, hiking trails, and a pavilion.

The Mascot Hall of Fame, located in Whiting, Indiana, is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to celebrating and honoring sports mascots from various teams and leagues across the United States.Opened in 2018, the museum offers a playful and educational experience for visitors of all ages. It showcases the history, creativity, and impact of sports mascots through interactive exhibits, displays, and immersive experiences.