Located near Lake Michigan and just an hour’s drive from Chicago, Valparaiso shines in the county seat of Porter County, Indiana. Immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this suburban sanctuary, bask in its thriving arts culture, and take a step back in time through its beautifully preserved historic downtown. With an abundance of restaurants and boutiques, along with many inviting parks and family-oriented activities, Valparaiso proudly houses over 33,000 residents, according to recent US Census Data. However, in the heat of summer, this count dramatically increases as thousands of people flock to Valparaiso, drawn in by the allure of the annual Popcorn Festival .
Dining & Entertainment
From unique shops downtown to popular electronics and home stores, there’s something for every shopper in Valparaiso. Located in a 100-year-old renovated livery stable, Lifestyles Unique Gifts sells everything from cards and toys to jewelry and home decor. Handcrafted furniture, ceramics, and crafts await the curious shopper and souvenir hunter at Specially Ours Craft Shoppe . Local artists, chefs and a variety of vendors sell their wares at Chesterton’s European Market. This seasonal market showcases local art and seasonal produce and is a must see for anyone visiting Valparaiso.
White tablecloth fine dining, sidewalk cafes and family-friendly restaurants are just a few of the unique dining options in Valparaiso. A stop at The Blackbird Café is in order for a cup of coffee or lunch featuring the popular pretzel roll. Stay for dessert and people-watching after your meal. If looking for fine American dining, check out Dish Restaurant or Sage Restaurant . Not in the mood for white tablecloths? Explore local pizza parlors and bistros, or indulge in popular American fare at chain restaurants and sandwich shops.
