Gary, IN

Designed and constructed in 1921, the Gary Aquatorium in Marquette Park is significant in that it is one of the earliest examples of the use of precast concrete modular construction. The building started out as a bathhouse/shower room called the Lakefront Park Bathhouse but now houses an aviation museum honoring the French engineer and aviation pioneer, Octave Chanute. Here you can learn about the very earliest discoveries of the wonders of flight and also learn about the Tuskagee Airmen, a group of military pilots who played a vital part in WWII. The aquatorium is also a unique venue for weddings and other special events.

Gary Aquatorium, 6918 Oak Avenue, Gary, IN 46403, Phone: 219-938-1986

Beautifully nestled along the south shore of Lake Michigan, Marquette Park includes a wonderful 1.4 mile white sand beach, several inland ponds, wetlands, an inland lagoon and remnants of an oak savanna. The park is entirely surrounded by the Indiana Dunes National Park and the entire area is a magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. You can go hiking through the oak forests or enjoy canoeing and kayaking, as well as fishing in the lagoon. There are plenty of birds to observe and children will love the soft sandy beach and the children’s playground. On a clear day the beach offers great views of the Chicago skyline.

Marquette Park, 598 N. Grand Boulevard, Gary, IN 46403, Phone: 219-938-7362

An excellent attraction for anyone interested in architecture and history, the Cathedral of the Holy Angels has an interesting history. The Holy Angel Parish was originally established in Gary in 1906 and held services in a local tavern for many years. The first church was built on the site in 1909, together with a school. However, a larger church was soon required and the impressive structure you see today was built in the Gothic Revival style in the late 1940’s. The interior of the cathedral is impressive, featuring a travertine marble baptismal pool and an elaborate square marble altar in the transept.

The Cathedral of the Holy Angels, 640 Tyler Street, Gary, IN 46402, Phone: 219-882-6079

Big Daddy’s BBQ started out about 12 years ago with a single BBQ in the Market City Flea Market. People loved it. In fact, people loved it so much that in a few years the market stall had evolved into a successful BBQ restaurant which now boasts three branches. On the BBQ you will find a delicious selection of your favorite meats including ribs and tips, sausages, chicken, turkey and mouth-watering combos. These are served in various sizes to suit all appetites and come with your choice of sides. Sandwiches filled with melt-in-the-mouth BBQ meats are also popular and there are a few sweet treats to round off the deal.

Big Daddy’s BBQ, 4213 Cleveland St, Gary, IN 46408, Phone: 219-888-9592