Exploring Northern Indiana

Northern Indiana is much different from other parts of the state. In the region you'll find everything from coastal dunes to casino boats to orchards and historical villages. It would take literally months to see all that Northern Indiana has to offer but if you don't have quite that long visit the top scenic spots along the way.

Miller Beach, located on the banks of Lake Michigan, offers sand and swimming for the public, street side shops and cafes, and historic buildings from bygone eras. Leave Miller Beach but head towards miles more of pristine beaches, sand dunes, forests and parkland when you visit Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Very nearby is Indiana Dunes State Park where three miles of beaches are bordered by sand dunes up to 170 feet high. Within the same area lies the Prairie Duneland Trail where walkers, bikers and skaters all have their own agendas.

A trip around northern Indiana begs for a visit to Michigan City where the harbor beacon, Indiana's only functioning lighthouse, is seen for miles. Formerly the rail yards of Pullman Railroad Car Manufacturing Company, the Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets opens its doors to give shoppers a once in a lifetime experience amongst over 120 outlet stores. There are plenty of motels and bed and breakfast establishments which are near both the harbor beacon and the shops.

South Bend, Indiana features a man-made white-water experience for those who love kayaking. The nearby College Football Hall of Fame, situated on a 1,250 acre campus, includes the history of area football heroes including those from the University of Notre Dame. While there, take a tour of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and view the Golden Dome.

The Studebaker National Museum is a must-see for kids and parents. The automobiles were produced during the 1960's but are no longer manufactured. Forty rooms of the Studebaker Mansion is now the Tippecanoe Place Restaurant. Visit the Northern Indiana Center for History where you'll find Copshaholm, an 1890's mansion formerly belonging to J.D. Oliver, famous industrialist. The home contains the original furnishings within 38 rooms which are open for historical tours.

Kosciusko County, with over 100 lakes, is the place to be on a sunny day. Here you'll find artist studios, galleries, shops and beautiful canals. Nearby, take a sightseeing cruise on the SS Lilypad as it travels Indiana's largest lake, Lake Wawasee.

Mark Nappanee on your travel map where the Amish country borders on the north and east. Dine at the Restaurant Barn or take in a musical in the Round Barn Theatre at Amish Acres. Middlebury lies square in the middle of Amish country where Amish home style meals are available. You can also purchased jams and baked goods to take home to friends and family. Dozens of unique shops and boutiques border the town square.

Shipshewana features unique Amish-made furniture, crafts and quilts as well as baked goods and other interesting items. Eleven different auction barns offer a night of bargains and goodies on Wednesdays. A visitor center, museum and exhibits at Menno-Hof recall the history of the Mennonite and Amish faiths.

National retailers give bargains galore to the shoppers of Fremont's Prime Outlets and nearby Sullins House Gallery & Gifts give shoppers a unique selection of dolls, furnishings and art. There's so much more to see in Norther Indiana. Check online to create your own map of where to go and what to see in Indiana. You'll be surprised at how much they really do have to offer for shoppers, site-seers, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.