Best Family-Friendly Activities in Lake County, Indiana

Breathtaking landscapes, charming attractions, and a vibrant community spirit define Lake County, Ind. From retro arcades to serene nature parks and everything in between, this slice of Hoosier heartland has something for every traveler. Explorers of all ages and interests will find an array of engaging activities that will make their stay in Lake County memorable.

With its diverse attractions, Lake County offers a unique blend of entertainment, relaxation, and education that caters to all ages and interests. Whether you're a solo traveler, a family on vacation, or a group of friends, Lake County is the perfect destination to create unforgettable experiences. Embark on your adventure in Lake County, and let the charm of the Midwest captivate your heart.

For those seeking solace in nature, Buckley Homestead County Park is a must-visit. The park has myriad trails, native flora and fauna, and historical sites. Its picturesque landscapes make it an excellent location for picnics, hiking, bird watching, or simply strolling around to enjoy the natural beauty.

Bennetts Pub & Play provides the perfect blend of food, drinks, and entertainment. The establishment is known for its welcoming atmosphere, a wide selection of games, and tasty food, making it a popular choice for a relaxed night out.

Venture into the stars at the Merrillville Community Planetarium. Offering fascinating shows about astronomy and the night sky, it serves as a captivating educational hub that both kids and adults will enjoy. Onsite educational programs include star parties, astronomy classes, and summer camps.

Experience a slice of agricultural life at Fair Oaks Farms. This immersive farm experience provides a unique look at sustainable farming with guided tours, interactive exhibits, and delicious farm-to-table cuisine. If you're looking for a fun and educational way to learn about agriculture, Fair Oaks Farms is the perfect place.

For art enthusiasts, Board & Brush is an exciting venue that encourages creativity. Offering a variety of workshops, it's a place where visitors can create personalized, rustic wooden signs while enjoying a relaxing and fun environment. The studio’s workshops are led by experienced instructors and cover various topics, including painting, woodworking, and jewelry making.

For those who love heart-pounding, adrenaline-fueled activities, Team Combat is a must-try. This live-action gaming experience takes laser tag to a new level with realistic scenarios and high-tech equipment. Each scenario is designed to be challenging and exciting; you and your group can take on hostage rescues, alien invasions, and zombie apocalypses.

For an alternative, therapeutic stress-relief method, Breaking Point Homewood offers the unique experience of a “rage room.” Participants can vent out frustrations by safely breaking various objects. Items typically include electronics, furniture, and dishes.

Lastly, Jak’s Warehouse is a family-friendly indoor play center. With an array of attractions, including laser tag, bumper cars, and a sky trail, it guarantees hours of fun for kids and kids at heart. Jak’s Warehouse is in Schererville, Ind., close to the Illinois state border.

Lake County is home to diverse parks and green spaces, each offering a unique charm and range of activities.

A sprawling expanse of natural beauty, Deep River County Park is a place to escape and enjoy the great outdoors. Located in Hobart, Ind., the park features an old grist mill that serves as its visitors center.

Centennial Park in Munster offers a stunning combination of lush greenery and leisure facilities, making it an ideal family outing spot. Its nine-hole golf course is open to the public.

A tranquil refuge, Stoney Run County Park is perfect for picnics and gentle walks while offering various outdoor activities. The park has equestrian trails and two permanent orienteering courses.

Renowned for its world-class disc golf courses, Lemon Lake Park is a hub for both recreation and competition. Lemon Lake was the first Lake County Park, dedicated in 1972. It spans over 400 acres in Crown Point, Ind.

Step back in time at Buckley Homestead County Park, which offers insight into life in the 19th century through historical buildings and live demonstrations. Interact with live animals, check out the old-fashioned schoolhouse, and get a photo at Buckley Barn, which is on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest provides a tranquil setting to enjoy the outdoors while exploring diverse plant species and natural habitats. You can inspect over 2,000 different plant species, many of which are arranged in gardens. Birds, butterflies, and deer roam the arboretum.

Occupying over 600 square miles, Lake County contains some of Indiana’s most unique restaurants. For this guide’s purposes, we’ll focus on a trifecta of restaurants in Crown Point.

Culinary Misfits, one of Crown Point’s newest eateries, packs a flavorful punch from weekend brunch to late nights at its catered party lounge. While you’re in Crown Point, stop by Square Roots, which excels in all things local and organic. Guests enjoy the spectacular setting and comprehensive menu on order at River Rock Restaurant.

Giorgios Karayannis is a seasoned real estate professional focusing on properties in Indiana and Illinois. Born and raised in Michigan City, Ind., Giorgios pairs deep roots with expert knowledge of the local real estate market. If you want to buy or sell a home or have questions about the Lake County, Ind., real estate market, contact Giorgios Karayannis today.