When you are new to a community, it can be overwhelming to sort through all the different activities, locations, and various fun ways to spend time around your new home. And even when you have been a resident for years, it is easy to slip into routine and forget about just how many options are available to you. Here is a list of ways to enjoy your time in La Porte without even getting into the bevy of events that fill the calendar throughout the year.
The La Porte County Historical Society Museum
La Porte was first settled back in 1832, making it a city with one of the richest histories across Northwest Indiana. The La Porte County Historical Society Museum showcases some of the area’s rich history with different exhibits and displays highlighting the people, places, and stories of La Porte. Check it out online at www.laportecountyhistory.org.
Hesston Steam Museum
The Hesston Steam Museum, operated by the La Porte County Historical Steam Society, has preserved and showcased the steam engines and machines that helped build a nation. From train rides and saw mills, to blacksmiths and steam cranes, there is fun to be found for all ages. Visit the museum online at www.hesston.org.
Back Road Brewery
Back Road Brewery is La Porte’s first production craft brewery. They offer tours, and of course, a bevy of beers. Visit them at www.backroadbrewery.com.
A Stroll Along the Avenues
La Porte has some of the most striking architecture in the Region; simply walking through the city is an experience. The city also offers a self-guided walking tour called, “A Stroll Along the Avenues,” which highlights the stories and designs of the buildings that stretch down the Michigan and Indiana Avenues. Check out www.cityoflaporte.com for a brochure to guide you on your trip.
The Farmer’s Market
The City of La Porte Famer’s Market is practically an institution. On Saturdays from May to October, local growers showcase their fruit, veggies, meats, cheeses, and more. The market is open rain or shine, so drop by the intersection of Lincolnway and Monroe late next May to take a look.
Beechwood Golf Course
It is rare to find a public golf course at the same level as Beechwood. It is an 18 hole championship course designed by William Diddle and built in the early 1930’s. Take a look at some pictures and see daily rates at thebeechwoodgolfcourse.com.
La Porte County Public Library
There is no better place for a bookworm than the La Porte County Public library thanks to its huge collection and countless resources. They also offer a laboratory for people of all ages to work with things like 3D printers, soldering kits, robots, and more. Check them out at laportelibrary.org.
Briar Leaf Golf Club
Similar to Beechwood, Briar Leaf is a premium 18-hole golf course open to the public at reasonable rates. They also offer memberships for those passionate about the game of golf. Find out more at briarleaf.com.
Albano’s Villa
A legendary pizza spot with over 50 years of history, Albano’s has some of the best pizza, pasta, and sandwiches in the Region. It also has just about the craziest history you could imagine behind its creation. Visit Albano’s online at albanosvilla.com to see their menu and find out how they came to be.
Mama T’s Diner
This diner is an institution in La Porte. Their menu is packed full of both classic and creative sandwiches and plates. Pair the food with quality service, and it’s hard to go wrong at Mama T’s. Check them out on Facebook to see reviews and some snapshots of their specials.
La Porte County Symphony Orchestra
Right in the heart of La Porte is the County Orchestra. With more than 45 seasons under their belt, they are possibly most well known for their annual holiday at the Pops event, but have put on a variety of shows each year. They usually perform at the La Porte Civic Auditorium. Find out more and purchase tickets at lcso.net.
La Porte Little Theatre Club
Founded in 1925, the La Porte Little Theatre Club performs a variety of comedic and dramatic shows each year. Featuring a cozy 200-seat community theatre, the club aims to provide quality performances at a reasonable cost. Their upcoming shows include, “The Bullying Collection,” “12 Incompetent Jurors,” and “Anne of Green Gables.” Learn more and find tickets at laportelittletheatreclub.com.
Bark Parks
La Porte County offers a number of no-leash dog parks that include events such as Tire Jump, Dog Walk, and King of the Hill. The available parks are Bluhm County, Creek Ridge, Luhr County, and Small Animal Shelter. Check out laportecountyparks.org/bark for more details.
Soldiers Memorial Park
Containing 556 acres and all of the beautiful Stone Lake, Soldiers Memorial is the largest city park and offers a wide variety of activities including fishing, ice skating, mountain biking, a playground, volleyball, a beach, and more. See the details at cityoflaporte.com.
Kesling Park
Sitting on the southern edge of the city, Kesling Park is a favorite destination for many of La Porte’s athletes and picnickers. It has a tennis complex, a baseball/softball complex, and a handful of shelters with access to community built playground, grills, soccer fields, and electricity. It is the perfect spot for an afternoon family gathering.
The Luhr County Park Nature Center
At the Nature Center, kids of all ages can explore hands-on displays and exhibits, see live animals, and hang out in the building’s wildlife observation room. See all the details here.
Legacy Hills Golf Club
Established in 1904, Legacy Hills is one of Indiana’s oldest golf courses, but have recently added nine new holes to their course. They also offer a first-class driving range and a pro shop. Find their rates at legacyhillsgolfclub.com.
Bike Trails
La Porte County has a wide variety of bike trails, both paved and unpaved. They also offer mountain bike trails for riders who are looking for a more rugged experience. There are 20 different loops to choose from, with over 400 miles of trails. Find printable maps online right here.
JJ’s Side Out Bar & Grill
Located in the heart of La Porte, not far from Clear Lake, JJ’s is a family-friendly bar and grill known for its half pound burgers, huge menu, vast selection of beers, and tons of events such as bingo and cornhole. Check them out online at jjsideoutbarandgrill.com.
Fox Memorial Park
This park offers a diverse array of activities including a skate park, baseball diamonds, fitness trails, and playgrounds for kids. It is also right next to Clear Lake, making it a fantastic spot for a day of fishing.
There is definitely no shortage of things to do in La Porte, this list is just scratching the surface. Be sure to visit the city online at cityoflaporte.com.
