The best things to do in Lake County

“Innsbrook Country Club is a year-round private spot for golfers, with an 11-acre bent-grass practice facility that makes dialing in your swing weirdly addictive. When you need a break, the Olympic-sized pool with a waterpark keeps the family happy, and there are events to plug into.”

From the Gary newsletter, October 3, 2026

“Formal gardens & an amphitheater attract families to this park full of green spaces & trees.”

“Stardust Bowl 2 of Merrillville keeps the good times rolling with open bowling, leagues for every skill level, and a full bar and restaurant for post-frame refuels. They’re also clutch for kids’ parties, group outings, and fundraisers, plus there’s a pro shop if your hook needs help.”

From the Merrillville newsletter, September 10, 2026

“Looking for a low-key place to roll a few frames without the fuss, Ray's Lanes in Lake Station keeps it simple and local. Gather the crew, settle a friendly rivalry, and remember... spares count.”

From the Gary newsletter, September 17, 2026

“When your crew needs to burn off energy, Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center brings kid-sized adventures to life with a pretend market, construction zone, pizza parlor, art studio, water tables, and a sweet space for babies, all designed for infants through nine and pretty likely to tire them out.”

From the Gary newsletter, August 27, 2026

“US SteelYard is where Gary does summer right, with RailCats baseball plus laugh-out-loud between-inning antics, great giveaways, and the kind of fireworks that make you say whoa. Even non-fans eat well, cheer loud, and leave grinning... bring the kids, your neighbor, or just your inner kid.”

From the Gary newsletter, October 6, 2026

“Hammond Civic Center has been the region’s go-to arena since 1938, hosting everything from boxing, wrestling, and roller derby to concerts and community blowouts. When you want something bigger than a gymnasium but closer than downtown, this 4,200-seat icon across the state line delivers.”

From the Calumet City newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Jean Shepherd Community Center is the local pickleball hub with reservable courts and a lively scene that turns quick games into, well, a few more quick games. When the rallies wrap, on-site Flick’s Kitchen & Picklebar is there for the debrief. Rally the crew this week.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 25, 2026

“Hoosier Theatre is Northwest Indiana’s last vaudeville movie palace, a 1924 stunner in Whiting bringing the big-show vibe to tribute nights, from Chicago’s Own Piano Man Band on September 19 to a Zeppelin blowout October 10, then more classic hits on November 7.”

From the Hammond newsletter, August 31, 2026

“When the crew needs easy weeknight plans, Stardust Bowl 3 hits the sweet spot with classic lanes, a lively arcade, and hot pizza that disappears fast. It’s the kind of low-stress, high-laughs hangout Schererville folks keep on speed dial.”

From the Schererville newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Plaza Lanes keeps it classic and kid friendly with lanes that roll smooth, an arcade to settle sibling rivalries, and both a snack bar and a bar so everyone’s happy. Join a league for the weekly ritual or just pop in when the bowling itch hits.”

From the Gary newsletter, September 9, 2026

“Diamond Plate Pub & Eatery is the spot when you want more than just a lane, with duckpin bowling, golf and MultiSport simulators, and a legit comfort-food menu. Cold drafts, signature cocktails, and party-ready vibes make it an easy go-to for birthdays or league nights.”

From the Merrillville newsletter, September 3, 2026

“Wicker Memorial Park is temporarily closed after severe storms, but when the gates swing back open you’re getting the whole local package... an 18-hole golf course, bike trail, splash pad, playground, tennis courts, and a dog run that finally wears out the zoomies.”

From the Gary newsletter, September 12, 2026

“Need a low-stress way to cool down close to home? Deep River Waterpark brings the splash with plenty of slides, big pools, and food that keeps everyone fueled, so you can turn a random afternoon into a mini vacation with the kids or the group chat.”

From the Gary newsletter, August 19, 2026

“3-acre family-fun park with go-karts, mini-golf, laser tag, batting cages & an arcade.”