Michigan City’s reputation as one of the Midwest’s best resort and recreation areas is no surprise considering the wealth of natural beauty and facilities. The weather is mild year-round, making the area ideal for campers and adventurers. Water lovers and boaters can explore Lake Michigan and the Great Lakes region, and anglers enjoy the area’s legendary sport fishing.

In addition to the Coho salmon runs in spring and fall, the waters off Michigan City are home to abundant populations of perch, trout, smelt and small-mouth bass. Several fishing tournaments are held each spring.

Boaters may take advantage of the municipally owned Washington Park Marina. The facility occupies 30 acres and includes 600 slips, a concrete launching ramp, fueling dock and extensive support facilities. Some slips are available for weekend rental. The adjacent Michigan City Yacht Club hosts two premier yacht and sailing races every summer. Trail Creek Marina also offers a free launching ramp to Michigan City residents.

The jewel of the lakefront is Washington Park, an enchanting 90-acre public facility with picnic areas, tennis courts, floral displays and a turn-of-the-century bandstand.

Music lovers enjoy band concerts performed in the amphitheater Thursday evenings during the summer. The Washington Park Zoo, just a short walk away, houses many fascinating animal and bird species. The city park system’s Millennium Riverwalk, scheduled to open in summer 2000 on Trail Creek, will offer fishing, a Greek-style theatre and fountain.

One of the most popular and inspiring parks in the entire Midwest is located just west of Michigan City. The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, with famous Mount Baldy and giant mounds of pearly white sand, soft beaches and quiet campgrounds, is a must stop for fun-seekers and nature lovers.

Duffers and handicappers alike are sure to find the Michigan City Municipal Golf Course challenging and fun with its 18 meticulously maintained holes, 18-hole executive course, pro shop and clubhouse. Michigan City’s two fine country clubs, Long Beach and Pottawattomie, offer an 18-hole course, swimming pools and complete clubhouse facilities.

The Michigan City area celebrates summer in style with festivals and entertainment nearly every weekend. Highlights include the Summer Festival with its parade, drum corps show, cardboard boat races, air show and Jet Ski competition. The Lakefront Art Festival, In-Water Boat Show and Oktoberfest draw thousands annually to Washington Park for family-oriented activities.

Gaming enthusiasts can try their luck at blackjack, roulette, poker and other games at the Blue Chip Casino, which features six gaming areas and more than 1,300 slot machines. Diners have three restaurants to choose from in the pavilion, which also features meeting and banquet facilities.

Year-round fun and activities are provided by the City Park and Recreation Department, as well as independent groups and sports centers. A variety of youth summer camps and sports leagues are available. Adults can enjoy summer softball leagues as well as winter volleyball and basketball leagues. Basketball, bowling, ice-skating, indoor pools, and fitness centers keep sports enthusiasts of all ages busy and active.

The Michigan City Senior Center serves the city’s older adults, providing social services as well as recreational, educational and volunteer activities. Overlooking the beach in Washington Park, the 14,000 sq.ft. facility is designed to accommodate a variety of programs simultaneously. Respect for the area’s active seniors brings full-circle the community’s commitment to and appreciation for all ages.

Next Topic

Previous Topic