Valparaiso, Indiana: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Did you know that Valparaiso hosts one of the oldest popcorn festivals in America? Since 1979, this charming Indiana city has celebrated its connection to popcorn legend Orville Redenbacher with an annual festival that draws over 60,000 visitors. But there’s much more to “Valpo” than just popcorn! Nestled just 15 miles south of Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes National Park, this vibrant college town offers an impressive array of cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and dining experiences that make it a perfect Midwest getaway.

Planning Your Trip to Valparaiso

Located just an hour southeast of Chicago, Valparaiso is easily accessible by car or public transportation. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring both urban attractions and the natural beauty of Northwest Indiana.

Best Time to Visit

Valparaiso shines brightest from late spring through early fall (May-October). Summer brings numerous festivals and outdoor concerts, while fall offers spectacular foliage and harvest celebrations. Winter transforms Central Park Plaza into a magical ice skating destination, making Valparaiso a year-round attraction.

Downtown Valparaiso Attractions

The heart of Valparaiso’s charm lies in its vibrant downtown district, where historic architecture meets modern amenities. The walkable streets are lined with locally-owned shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.

Central Park Plaza

This downtown hub serves as Valparaiso’s community gathering space. During summer, enjoy the splash pad, farmers’ market, and outdoor concerts. Winter transforms the William E. Urschel Pavilion into a covered ice skating rink. The plaza hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the popular Popcorn Festival in September.

Memorial Opera House

Built in 1893 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this historic theater underwent renovations in 2024. The venue hosts an impressive lineup of musicals, plays, concerts, and comedy shows throughout the year. Check their schedule during your visit for a chance to experience live entertainment in a historic setting.

Porter County Museum (Poco Muse)

Located across from the Memorial Opera House, this free museum showcases Porter County’s rich history. With artifacts dating back over 100 years, the museum offers rotating exhibits, guided tours, and interactive scavenger hunts that make history engaging for visitors of all ages.

Outdoor Activities in Valparaiso

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to love in and around Valparaiso, with several parks, gardens, and natural areas to explore.

Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest

Formerly known as Taltree Arboretum, this 330-acre preserve features one of the most diverse oak collections in the nation. Explore six miles of hiking trails through woodlands, wetlands, and prairies. Don’t miss the Railway Garden, which features model trains running through miniature landscapes representing America’s railroad history. The arboretum also hosts popular summer concerts in its outdoor amphitheater.

Ogden Gardens

This hidden gem in the heart of Valparaiso offers a peaceful retreat with Japanese-inspired gardens, a koi pond, and beautiful seasonal flowers. The four-acre botanical garden is perfect for a relaxing stroll or a quiet moment of reflection. Adjacent to Ogden Gardens is Forest Park, which features a playground and picnic areas.

Butterfly Meadows

This family-friendly park features the “StoryWalk” addition, where visitors can follow a path with pages from children’s books displayed along the way. The meadow is planted with native species that attract butterflies and other pollinators, making it both educational and beautiful.

Indiana Dunes National Park

Just a 20-minute drive from Valparaiso, the Indiana Dunes National Park offers 15,000 acres of beaches, dunes, wetlands, and forests along Lake Michigan’s southern shore. Hike the dunes, swim in Lake Michigan, or explore the diverse ecosystems that make this one of the most biodiverse national parks in the country.

Dining and Shopping in Valparaiso

Valparaiso’s culinary scene punches well above its weight for a city of its size, with diverse dining options from casual cafes to upscale restaurants.

Local Restaurants

Downtown Valparaiso boasts an impressive array of dining options. Don Quijote offers authentic Spanish cuisine since 1985, while Veleros Mexican Cuisine serves upscale Mexican dishes with craft cocktails. For American fare, try Pikk’s Tavern or Blue Point for seafood and steaks. Coffee lovers should visit FLUID Coffee Roasters for locally roasted beans and artisan beverages.

Boutique Shopping

Valparaiso’s downtown is lined with unique boutiques and specialty shops. Browse fashionable clothing at Ella Jayms or Six Cypress Boutique, find unique toys at Toys in the Attic, or explore specialty foods at Old World Market. Don’t miss Designer Desserts for gourmet cupcakes or Rocket Fizz for nostalgic candy and soda.

Events and Entertainment

Valparaiso’s event calendar is packed year-round with festivals, concerts, and seasonal celebrations that showcase the community’s vibrant spirit.

Popcorn Festival

Held annually in September, this beloved festival celebrates Valparaiso’s connection to popcorn pioneer Orville Redenbacher. The day-long event features a parade, live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and of course, plenty of popcorn. Don’t miss the Popcorn Panic 5K race that kicks off the festivities.

Summer Concert Series

Central Park Plaza hosts free concerts throughout the summer months, featuring a variety of musical genres from jazz to rock to country. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy live music under the stars. The nearby Gabis Arboretum also hosts its popular Acorn Concert Series in its outdoor amphitheater.

Valparaiso Chocolate Walk

Chocolate lovers won’t want to miss this annual February event. Purchase a ticket to receive a map of participating downtown businesses, each offering a unique chocolate treat. It’s a delicious way to explore downtown shops while satisfying your sweet tooth.

Practical Information

Getting Around

While having a car is convenient for exploring the broader region, downtown Valparaiso is highly walkable. The city also offers the V-Line bus service with routes connecting major attractions, Valparaiso University, and shopping areas. For regional exploration, consider renting a car to visit the Indiana Dunes and surrounding communities.

Where to Stay

Valparaiso offers accommodations ranging from chain hotels to charming bed and breakfasts. For a unique experience, consider Songbird Prairie Bed & Breakfast, which was named “Best Romantic Getaway in Indiana.” Downtown hotels put you within walking distance of restaurants and attractions, while accommodations near Valparaiso University offer a quieter setting.

Why Visit Valparaiso?

Valparaiso offers the perfect blend of small-town charm and cultural sophistication. With its vibrant downtown, diverse dining scene, and proximity to natural wonders like the Indiana Dunes, it’s an ideal destination for weekend getaways or longer explorations. Whether you’re catching a show at the historic Memorial Opera House, skating at the Urschel Pavilion, or hiking through Gabis Arboretum, Valparaiso delivers memorable experiences that will have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left.