The Indiana Dunes region is known for its beautiful, sandy beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan… but did you know they have an island, too? Zao Island, in Valparaiso, is an island-themed family fun center that’s full of adventure and excitement for all ages. Open year round, Zao Island offers indoor and outdoor (seasonal) attractions so you can come play no matter the season, rain or shine.
The arcade area is filled with dozens of games. You’ll find classics like air hockey, claw machines, and skee-ball, as well as newer games combining popular characters and modern technology. Next door, the indoor jungle-themed laser tag arena features glowing neon obstacles to help you hide from your opponents and achieve your victory (my teens loved it!).
Outside is a go-kart race track, complete with tight turns, hills, and humming engines. Drivers can show off their racing skills on over 1,000 feet of racetrack as they zoom toward the finish line. Single and double-seat karts are available so everyone can get in on the fun. Buckle up and get ready to start your engines.
Nearby, batting cages offer the opportunity to swing the bat at pitches at your choice of speeds in either softball or baseball. It’s a lot harder than it looks and is so much fun seeing how well you can hit in America’s favorite pastime.
A visit to Zao Island wouldn’t be complete without a round of mini-golf on one of their two courses you can choose from. The red course winds through a series of water features, waterfalls, and whimsical houses to test your putting abilities. The blue course takes another route and brings you face-to-face with a towering dragon perched behind an enormous rock (FYI: The giant dragon faces west on Route 30 and is visible from the highway. If you’d like to try to keep the dragon a surprise for your golfing party, you may want to approach from the other direction when arriving).
Zao Island’s newest attraction, Spike Jrs. Shipwreck, is easy to spot with its bright green beams. This mini coaster will send your cart spinning along its figure-eight track. No two rides are the same. Before purchasing your tickets, be sure to ask about the height and weight requirements to make sure everyone in your party is able to ride.
In addition to games and attractions, you can also enjoy a bite to eat at the Zao Pizza Bar. Menu items include handmade pizzas, specialty breads, and hot sandwiches. For guests 21 years of age and older, Zao Island serves a variety of craft beers and wines on their drink menu. Indoor and outdoor seating is available, so you can always enjoy some island time.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Prepaid cards must be purchased for all of the attractions at Zao Island (including arcade games), making play easy with the swipe of a card. Arcade tickets are conveniently stored on the card. Self-serve kiosks are available in the arcade area to buy a new card or to reload an existing card with additional funds. Employees at the counters can also help with the purchase of a card or with any questions you may have.
For those who believe that one slice is never enough! Try a pizza at three different restaurants and you'll be entered for a chance to win an Ooni Outdoor Pizza Oven!
