Valparaiso
When it comes to arts, dining, entertainment, and shopping, Valparaiso is the hottest spot in the Indiana Dunes area. The seat of Porter County, Valparaiso has a downtown district filled with historic architecture and blocks of unique shops and curated boutiques. It’s the kind of place where you can take a culinary tour around the globe at restaurants that range from casual dining to five-star international fare.
Arts & Entertainment
The arts continue to be the lifeblood of Valparaiso and are an attraction worth investigating. Visitors and residents alike enjoy Valparaiso’s eclectic scene, which includes everything from live music at the Central Park Plaza, local productions at the Memorial Opera House—a hundred-year-old historic landmark, and performances and exhibits at Valparaiso University’s famed Brauer Museum of Art.
Boredom isn’t a concept here. You’ll be entertained no matter your interests. Experience a movie experience straight out of the 1950s at 49er Drive-In Theatre, listen to music at the Memorial Opera House, or enjoy a great production at the Chicago Street Theatre. Wander through artifacts from Porter County's history at PoCo Muse, or find local artists’ work at great places like Air One Aerial Photography and Lifestyles.
Porter County Museum (PoCo Muse)
- 20 Indiana Ave.
- 219-510-1836
The award-winning Porter County Museum is this area's oldest institution devoted to the history and…
Valparaiso University Brauer Museum of Art
- 1709 Chapel Dr.
- 219-464-5365
The museum’s nationally recognized collection of 19th, 20th, and 21st-century American art includes…
Art Barn School of Art. Inc.
- 695 N. 400 East
- 219-462-9009
Established in 1977, this not-for-profit organization is located in a restored country barn on 69…
Memorial Opera House
- 104 Indiana Ave.
- 219-548-9137
Valparaiso's Historic Memorial Opera House is "Where The Arts Create Community." Listed on the…
Bao's Pastry
- 12 Jefferson St.
- 219-299-8693
Winner of the 2020 Locals Love Sweet Treat competition, this authentic French patisserie features…
Don Quijote Restaurante and Imports
- 119 E. Lincolnway
- 219-462-7976
Owners Carlos Rivero and Elena Jambrina, natives of Spain, serve authentic tapas, paella, desserts…
Blackbird Café
- 114 E. Lincolnway
- 219-548-2811
Blackbird Cafe and Eatery offers fine coffees, teas, fresh pastry, and a full breakfast and lunch…
Industrial Revolution Eatery & Grille
- 1084 Linwood Ave.
- 219-465-1801
Known for its burgers and steelworker-themed decor, the Industrial Revolution is a tribute to the…
Meditrina Market Café
- 24 N. Washington St.
- 219-707-5271
Color and flavor unite in this tiny Mediterranean restaurant serving lean fresh meals, including…
Parea Restaurant & Lounge
- 69 S. Franklin St.
- 219-510-5428
This spot lives up to its name: “parea,” which means gatherings of friends and family to enjoy good…
Don’t forget to save room for a creamy scoop of locally made ice cream from Valpo Velvet Ice Cream Shoppe or creation from Designer Desserts. Fancy yourself a salty snack lover? Well, we have just the thing for you. Pop into town during the Popcorn Festival each September and celebrate Valparaiso’s link to popcorn legend, Orville Redenbacher.
The Indiana Dunes area is home to Valparaiso University, one of the nation’s premier universities. Take some time to explore the southern shore of Lake Michigan and the area’s unique…
Bed & Breakfasts
Feel like family with intimate accommodations that range from nature-inspired retreats in the woods…
Hotels & Inns
A convenient stay located near downtown? What about a country retreat heaped in Old World charm? Or…
