Need a fun day trip or weekend escape near Chicago? Head to Gary! Relax on scenic Lake Michigan beaches, dive into musical history, and explore hidden natural treasures. Whether you're hiking through sand dunes, visiting iconic landmarks, or enjoying a quiet getaway, Gary offers a blend of city history and outdoor adventure along the south shore.
Gary, IN Highlights:
- Marquette Park and Beach: Swim, sunbathe, or stroll the lakefront at one of Indiana’s prettiest stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline.
- Michael Jackson’s Childhood Home: Visit the modest home where the King of Pop grew up, a must-see for music fans.
- Indiana Dunes National Park (West End): Explore beautiful beaches, forested trails, and sand dunes just outside the city.
- Gary Aquatorium: Tour this historic bathhouse-turned-museum honoring aviation pioneers and Gary’s beachside heritage.
- Downtown Gary Landmarks: See grand early 20th-century architecture like the City Methodist Church ruins and Gary’s Union Station.
When I like to visit
The best time to visit Gary is during the late spring through early fall (May–September). Warm, sunny weather makes it ideal for beach days, hiking, and exploring the Dunes. Festivals and outdoor events also liven up the lakefront in summer.
Tips for getting There
- If you are traveling by car: Gary is easily accessed via I-90 and I-80/94, about 35–40 minutes southeast of downtown Chicago.
- By Train: South Shore Line commuter trains connect Gary to downtown Chicago and South Bend, with several stations around Gary.
- By Plane: Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) and Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) are the nearest major airports, both within an hour’s drive.
Where I like to stay
- Majestic Star Hotel – Basic accommodations near the Gary casino complex, good for quick visits and lake access.
- Nearby Merrillville Hotels – For more lodging choices, stay in Merrillville (15–20 min drive) where you'll find major chains like Hilton Garden Inn, Comfort Suites, and Courtyard Marriott.
- Vacation Rentals – Lakefront rentals and cottages near Miller Beach are available for longer stays or family getaways.
Best Things to Do
1. Gary Aquatorium
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
2. Marquette Park
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
3. The Cathedral of the Holy Angels
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
Where to Eat
4. Big Daddy’s BBQ
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
More Places to Eat
- Captain’s House – Casual dining with classic American dishes and a comfortable neighborhood vibe near the beach.
- Great Lakes Café – Small local spot serving hearty breakfasts, burgers, and sandwiches.
- Miller Pizza Co. – Popular neighborhood pizzeria offering deep-dish, thin crust, and traditional Chicago-style pizzas.
My favorite local events:
- Gary Air Show (Summer, select years) – Watch thrilling aerial performances over Lake Michigan (check event status for current years).
- Marquette Park Summer Concerts (Summer) – Free outdoor concerts at the park’s beautiful lakeside pavilion.
- Gary SouthShore RailCats Baseball (May–September) – Catch a minor league baseball game at U.S. Steel Yard stadium downtown.
My favorite day trips within 30 Minutes of Gary, Indiana:
- Indiana Dunes National Park and State Park (15–30 min) – Hike dunes, birdwatch, swim, and explore 15 miles of beautiful shoreline.
- Whiting, IN (20–25 min) – Visit the quirky Mascot Hall of Fame and relax at Whihala Beach.
- Hammond, IN (15–20 min) – Explore Wolf Lake Park trails or the Horseshoe Casino.
- Merrillville, IN (20–25 min) – Shop at Southlake Mall or dine at national restaurant chains.
- Chicago’s South Side (25–30 min) – Visit museums, historic neighborhoods, and Jackson Park’s beautiful gardens.
Plan Your Trip