Welcome to Gary, Indiana! This city is full of interesting things to do that are just waiting to be discovered. Its borders are home to cultural gems, culinary delights, and natural wonders that will make your trip truly unforgettable. This detailed guide will show you the best things to do in Gary, Indiana, so you can have a full schedule that captures this lively city. Join us as we explore Gary’s historic sites and hidden culinary gems.
1. Cathedral of the Holy Angels
- Address: 640 Tyler St, Gary, IN 46402
There are many cultural things to see and do in Gary, Indiana. The Cathedral of the Holy Angels is a beautiful example of both religious and architectural grandeur. The cathedral is a wonderful spot to learn about the past, enjoy the art, and question your faith. It has carvings and stained glass windows that are very detailed and are in the high Gothic and Romanesque styles.
There is more to the Cathedral than just worship. At this cultural landmark, visitors can learn about the city’s long history and traditions that shaped it. Start at the Cathedral of the Holy Angels to see some of this lively city’s many attractions. The interior is solemnly beautiful, and every part of the building tells a story.
2. SteelCity CheeseSteaks
- Address: 19 N Indiana St, Griffith, IN 46319
- Website: SteelCity CheeseSteaks
SteelCity CheeseSteaks in Gary, Indiana, is a hidden gem of a restaurant known for its delicious cheesesteaks made with thin slices of seasoned steak, melted cheese, and a variety of tasty toppings. In addition to traditional items, the menu has creative twists that will please a wide range of tastes.
The warm atmosphere and busy kitchen allow customers to have an exceptional meal. SteelCity CheeseSteaks offers a symphony of flavors that showcase Gary’s diverse palate, whether you’re a local looking for a favorite or a tourist exploring the city’s food scene.
3. Indiana Dunes National Park
- Address: 1215 N State Road 49, Porter, IN 46304
- Website: Indiana Dunes National Park
Indian Dunes National Park is a beautiful natural area that blends sandy beaches, rolling dunes, lush forests, and a variety of ecosystems. It is located on the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan. The park covers more than 15,000 acres and has a great mix of exciting outdoor activities and peaceful scenery.
People can go hiking on trails that wind through the dunes and give them great views of the lake and the wild areas around it. Clean beaches like Miller Beach and Lake Street Beach are great for relaxing and doing things in the water.
The park has many plant and animal species, making it ideal for birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts. People who love the outdoors, beautiful scenery, and quiet Midwest getaways will love Indiana Dunes National Park’s unique mix of natural wonders.
4. Miller Pizza Co.
- Address: 622 S Lake St, Gary, IN 46403
- Website: Miller Pizza Co.
In the middle of Gary, Indiana, Miller Pizza Co. is a hidden gem of a restaurant that tempts your taste buds with delicious pizzas and a warm atmosphere. This local restaurant has made a name for itself by providing a great dining experience with tasty pizzas, friendly service, and a lively atmosphere. Each pizza is a work of art, with a perfect balance of fresh ingredients and expertly made crust.
The toppings range from traditional favorites to new ideas. Miller Pizza Co. has a large menu with many options besides pizza so everyone can find something they like. Miller Pizza Co. promises savory treats and a memorable dining experience in the heart of this lively neighborhood, whether you’re a Gary resident looking for a cozy place to have family dinners or a visitor eager to try the city’s food scene.
5. Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
- Address: 5400 W 29th Ave, Gary, IN 46406
- Website: Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
Located in the middle of Northern Indiana, the Hard Rock Casino is a top spot that combines exciting gaming with fun entertainment and friendly service. This casino has a lively and exciting atmosphere and a lot of different games, such as slot machines, table games, and poker rooms, so both new and experienced gamblers can have a good time.
In addition to slots and tables, Hard Rock Casino offers live shows, concerts, and other events that enhance the experience. The venue’s decor and atmosphere reflect its rock ‘n’ roll roots, making it unique.
With a variety of dining options and a dedication to guest satisfaction, the Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana is more than just a place to play slots. It’s also a full-on entertainment destination where people can try their luck, watch live shows, and feel the dynamic energy of the Hard Rock brand.
6. Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center
- Address: 2800 Colorado St, Lake Station, IN 46405
- Website: Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center
Family-friendly Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center in Gary, Indiana, lets kids play and learn. This fun center encourages kids to be creative with a variety of activities beyond play. Bellaboo’s kid-friendly science displays and pretend play areas keep kids engaged.
A safe and interesting place for kids to play and learn is great for parents and guardians to watch their kids have fun. Bellaboo’s Play and Discovery Center is proof that learning can be fun and exciting because it is dedicated to both. In the middle of Gary, Bellaboo’s is a fun place for families to make memories, whether it’s through the bright play areas, interesting workshops, or themed events.
7. Aquatorium
- Address: 6918 Oak Ave, Gary, IN 46403
As a piece of history and architecture, the Aquatorium in Gary, Indiana, stands out on the shores of Lake Michigan. It was built in the 1920s as a bathhouse and has been carefully restored to keep its classic look. Today, the venue is a flexible space for events and community gatherings. It has stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline of Chicago.
The Aquatorium is a unique place for weddings, parties, and a peaceful lakeside getaway. Aquatorium combines Gary’s long history with modern conveniences. It is important because of both its beautiful architecture and its role as a cultural landmark that connects the past and the present. It also adds to the beauty of Gary, Indiana’s scenery.
8. Flamingo Pizza of Miller
- Address: 8341 Locust Ave, Munster, IN 46321
- Website: Flamingo Pizza of Miller
There is a great restaurant called Flamingo Pizza of Miller in Gary, Indiana. It is in the lively neighborhood of Miller and is known for its creative and tasty pizzas. This pizza place is the best at what it does because it has a menu full of different toppings that aren’t just the usual ones. Every pizza, from signature dishes to “build your own,” is a tasty work of art made with premium ingredients and a perfectly baked crust.
Locals and tourists seeking a unique dining experience visit Flamingo Pizza of Miller for its friendly service and warm atmosphere. Flamingo Pizza of Miller in Gary’s heart is calling to pizza lovers and casual diners alike with its commitment to culinary excellence and diverse menu.
9. The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education
- Address: 100 N Lake St, Gary, IN 46403
- Website: Paul H. Douglas Center
The Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education is a great place for nature lovers and people who are just interested in the world around them to learn more about the environment. This center, which is named for the late Senator Paul H. Douglas, aims to make people more aware of and appreciative of the environment.
Through educational programs, guided nature walks, and interactive exhibits, visitors can start a journey of discovery that reveals the ecological wonders of the area. The center’s location near Lake Michigan makes it easy for visitors to access the park’s different ecosystems.
This teaches them about the park’s biodiversity, birdwatching, and unique plants and animals. No matter your background—experienced naturalist, student, or family looking for a fun way to learn—The Paul H. Douglas Center is an important environmental education center. Everyone is encouraged to connect with and care for nature.
10. Marquette Park Pavilion
- Address: 1 N Grand Blvd, Gary, IN 46403
Within the beautiful grounds of Gary, Indiana’s Marquette Park, the Marquette Park Pavilion is a picturesque spot that combines natural beauty with community gathering. This pavilion has a beautiful view of the calm waters of Lake Michigan and is a great place for events and just relaxing.
The pavilion is a popular place for weddings, picnics, and cultural events because of its beautiful architecture and large amount of green space. Visitors can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while taking in the beautiful views, taking long walks, or having fun on the beach right next door.
Marquette Park Pavilion is a peaceful place to relax and a community destination for celebrations. This pavilion embodies Marquette Park, inviting people and families to make memories in Gary, Indiana’s natural beauty for an event, to enjoy the scenery, or to relax.
11. Miller Beach
- Address: Lake St & Marquette Dr, Gary, IN 46403
Located in Gary, Indiana, on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, Miller Beach is a peaceful place to get away from the busy city life. Miller Beach is a peaceful place to sunbathe, take long walks, and do water activities. It is known for its clean beaches and natural beauty. The gentle rhythm of the waves and the wide views of Lake Michigan make for a relaxing atmosphere for visitors who want to unwind.
The beach’s unique style is enhanced by its proximity to Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers hiking and birdwatching. The lake’s sound and sand warmth make Miller Beach a peaceful place to relax and recharge in Gary, Indiana’s natural beauty. Nature lovers, families looking for fun, and solo travelers seeking peace and quiet will love it.
12. Lake Street Beach
- Address: 10 N Lake St, Gary, IN 46403
The natural beauty and friendly vibe of Gary, Indiana’s Lake Street Beach on Lake Michigan attract visitors. Locals and tourists love this beach because it has the right mix of sun, sand, and waves. The sandy shore is a peaceful place to sunbathe, walk, or build sandcastles with friends and family.
The wide views of Lake Michigan make for a stunning background that makes you feel calm and away from the stress of everyday life. Lake Street Beach is a beautiful place to relax, but it’s also where people from the neighborhood get together, hold events, and do water activities. Lake Street Beach in Gary, Indiana is a must-see for anyone who wants to relax by the water or get in touch with nature.
13. Great Lakes Cafe
- Address: 201 Washington St, Michigan City, IN 46360
- Website: Great Lakes Cafe
The Great Lakes Cafe is a hidden gem in the middle of Gary, Indiana. Its friendly atmosphere and well-thought-out menu honor the many flavors that make up this part of the country. This cafe is a favorite in the area because it has a cozy feel and a wide range of dishes that show off the great food in the Great Lakes region.
Every dish, from comforting classics to creative newcomers, is made with care and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The cozy atmosphere of the cafe shows its dedication to quality, making it a great place for any event, from a casual brunch to a romantic dinner for two.
Gary residents can gather with friends and family or tourists to try local cuisine at the Great Lakes Cafe. A culinary journey through Gary, Indiana’s heart and soul is offered.
14. Michael Jackson Family Home
- Address: 2300 Jackson St, Gary, IN 46407
In the middle of Gary, Indiana, the Michael Jackson Family Home is a famous landmark that gives a moving look into the young life of the famous King of Pop. Set on Jackson Street, this simple house had a big impact on the musical genius’s formative years.
The house has a lot of historical and cultural significance, even though it looks plain from the outside. Fans and admirers of Michael Jackson see the family home as a pilgrimage to the roots of his unmatched talent and influence on the music industry around the world.
The house’s exterior recalls its humble beginnings, but its interior honors one of the world’s greatest entertainers. The Michael Jackson Family Home is more than a nostalgia trip. The musical genius and hometown that made Michael Jackson a cultural icon are also honored.
15. Miller Beach Farmers Market
- Address: 667 S Lake St, Gary, IN 46403
- Website: Miller Beach Farmers Market
Locals love Miller Beach Farmers Market. The vibrant Miller neighborhood in Gary, Indiana, is full of fresh food, handmade goods, and a lively atmosphere. This charming outdoor market lets locals and visitors browse a variety of locally made goods.
The market is a great place to see the best of the region’s farming and crafting skills. It has everything from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to handcrafted items and one-of-a-kind artisanal goods. The Miller Beach Farmers Market is more than just a place to shop. It’s also a place to meet other people, enjoy live music, and talk to local farmers and vendors.
If you’re a foodie looking for fresh ingredients or just want to support your community, the Miller Beach Farmers Market in Gary, Indiana is a lively and rewarding place to be.
Conclusion
As our look at the things to do in Gary, Indiana comes to a close, it’s clear that this city has a lot to offer every kind of traveler. The Cathedral of the Holy Angels and Miller Beach are two of the most famous places in Gary. The city has a special mix of history, culture, and natural beauty that makes it a great place to visit. Gary wants you to make memories that will last a long time, whether you’re taking a stroll through the city’s lively art scene, enjoying the local cuisine, or relaxing on one of its beaches. Make plans, get ready for an adventure, and let Gary, Indiana, surprise and please you at every turn. This is where your journey starts. Every corner has a story to tell, and every experience is a chance to get to know the heart of this charming city.