Local Attractions

Local Family-friendly Attractions near Bella Largo: Michigan City, New Buffalo, LaPorte, South Bend

Exit 49 on the Indiana Toll Road (westbound; use Exit 39 if eastbound) provides access to Michigan City, Indiana, and nearby family-friendly attractions. Here are some notable options based on available information:

  • Washington Park Zoo (Michigan City): A 15-acre zoo featuring over 250 animals, including tigers, bears, and reptiles. It offers interactive experiences like animal feedings, a petting zoo, and scenic trails with views of Lake Michigan. Ideal for families with kids of all ages, it’s open seasonally with affordable admission (around $10/adult, $8/child). Located about 2 miles from the exit at 115 Lakeshore Dr, Michigan City.
  • Indiana Dunes National Park (near Chesterton, ~10 miles from Exit 49): Features 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline with beaches, hiking trails, and dune climbing. The gentle waves at places like West Beach are perfect for young kids, and Parents magazine named it a top family beach destination. Free entry to some areas, though parking fees apply ($6-$25/vehicle). Great for picnics, sandcastle building, or winter dune adventures.
  • Designer Desserts (Michigan City): A fun stop for families with a sweet tooth, offering over 107 cupcake flavors like key lime pie and Pink Champagne. It’s a great spot for a quick treat or to pick up a sugary souvenir. Located in Michigan City, about 5 miles from the exit.

New Buffalo, Michigan, just a short drive from Exit 49 of the Indiana Toll Road (via I-94, about 10-15 miles), is a charming Lake Michigan beach town with plenty of family-friendly attractions. Here are some top activities and destinations for families with kids, based on available information:

  • New Buffalo Public Beach (Whittaker St, New Buffalo): A highlight of the town, this sandy beach on Lake Michigan features shallow, clear waters ideal for kids to swim and play. Amenities include a playground, snack deck, picnic areas, and restrooms. Families can rent kayaks or paddleboards for added fun, and the beach is perfect for sandcastle building or volleyball. Free parking is available in town, with a 7-minute walk over the Galien River Bridge. The beach is noted for its safe, family-friendly environment.
  • New Buffalo Township Memorial Park (500 E Mechanic St, New Buffalo): A great family park offering a playground, splash pad, Little League baseball field, fishing pond, sand volleyball courts, and a dining pavilion with grills. In winter, it features a free ice skating rink with skate rentals and a smaller “Dinky Rink” for young kids. The park is free to access and ideal for picnics or active play.
  • New Buffalo Railroad Museum (530 S Whittaker St, New Buffalo): A small, free-admission museum perfect for train enthusiasts. Housed in a replica Pere Marquette Depot, it features railroad cars, model trains, and artifacts. Open weekends and holidays through October, it’s a quick, educational stop for kids fascinated by trains.
  • Oink’s Dutch Treat (227 W Buffalo St, New Buffalo): A nostalgic ice cream parlor serving Sherman’s Dairy ice cream with over 30 flavors. Its quirky decor and attached candy store make it a hit with kids. Expect lines in summer, but the experience is worth it for a sweet treat after a beach day.
  • Galien River County Park (17424 Red Arrow Hwy, New Buffalo): This park offers a canopy walkway, marsh boardwalk, and overlook tower for exploring upland and wetland habitats along the Galien River. Kids can enjoy nature trails and wildlife spotting, with easy trails suitable for all ages. It’s a great spot for a low-cost outdoor adventure.
  • New Buffalo Township Library (33 N Thompson St, New Buffalo): A fantastic spot for families, offering kids’ programming like story time, LEGO building sessions, and concerts. Open Monday-Saturday (closed Sundays), with hours from 9 AM to 8 PM (5 PM on Wednesdays, 1 PM opening on Thursdays, 2 PM close on Saturdays). Check their events calendar for family-friendly activities.
  • Four Winds Casino Resort – Kids Quest (11111 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo): While the casino is for adults, Kids Quest is a supervised entertainment center for children ages 6-12, featuring a play gymnasium, video games, karaoke, and arts and crafts. It’s a great option for parents wanting a break while kids have fun in a safe environment.
  • New Buffalo Farmers Market (Whittaker St, seasonal, typically Thursdays): A lively market with fresh produce, baked goods, and crafts. Kids can enjoy the festive atmosphere, sample treats, or participate in occasional family-friendly events. It’s a short walk from downtown and perfect for a summer morning outing.
  • Turtle Creek Preserve (New Buffalo): Connected to New Buffalo Elementary’s trails, this lush preserve offers family-friendly hiking through forests and wetlands. It’s a peaceful spot for kids to explore nature and learn about local wildlife, with trails suitable for all ages.
  • Additional Notes:
  • For dining, Redamak’s (616 E Buffalo St) is a family-friendly burger joint with a kids’ menu, and The Stray Dog Bar & Grill (245 N Whittaker St) offers a casual vibe with outdoor seating (rooftop is 21+, but ground-level seating is family-friendly).
  • If you’re staying overnight, Marina Grand Resort (600 W Water St) has family suites, an indoor/outdoor pool, and a game room for kids.
  • For more ideas, check out local resources like harborcountry.org or newbuffaloexplored.com.

La Porte, Indiana, located about 12 miles from Exit 49 of the Indiana Toll Road, offers a variety of family-friendly activities that cater to kids and adults alike. Below is a curated list of attractions and activities in La Porte, drawing from local insights and available information, with an emphasis on fun, accessibility, and family appeal:

  • Hesston Steam Museum (1201 E 1000 N, La Porte): A must-visit for families, this 155-acre museum features historic steam-powered trains, including three gauges of locomotives that offer a 2-mile ride through woods, past farms, and over steep grades. Kids love the miniature train rides, and conductors share engaging stories about the trains’ history. Additional attractions include a soda fountain with ice cream and a gift shop. Open weekends seasonally (typically May-October), with admission around $5-$10 per person. It’s a unique, hands-on experience for all ages.
  • Pine Lake (North of downtown La Porte): This 540-acre lake is perfect for family water activities. Families can enjoy Pine Lake Ski Beach (Waverley Rd) with its sandy shore, picnic tables, and grassy areas for lounging. Kiwanis-Teledyne Park (eastern shore) offers a fishing pier, paved lakefront path, and stunning sunset views. Pine Lake Marina rents motorboats, kayaks, and paddleboards, making it easy to get out on the water. The lake is ideal for swimming, fishing, tubing, or relaxing, with nearby restaurants like Tiki Bar for a family-friendly meal. Free access to public areas, though rentals have fees.
  • Luhr County Park (3178 S 150 W, La Porte): A 91-acre park with a free nature center (open March-October) featuring live animals, wildlife observation areas, and interactive displays for kids. The park offers easy hiking trails, a catch-and-release pond, picnic areas, a playground, and a dog park (registration required). It’s a great spot for families to explore nature, with shaded picnic tables for a relaxing day out. Reviewers note it’s especially engaging for young kids who can spend hours at the nature center.
  • Garwood Orchards (5911 W 50 S, La Porte): A sixth-generation family farm spanning 350 acres, open June-October for U-pick apples, blueberries, raspberries, and pumpkins. Kids can enjoy picking fruit, exploring the farm, and sampling homemade pastries, cider, and donuts at the farm market. The orchard also sells sweet corn, peaches, and other produce, making it a fun and tasty outing. Prices vary by activity, but U-pick is budget-friendly, and kids are encouraged to eat while picking.
  • La Porte County Historical Society Museum (2405 Indiana Ave, La Porte): Located at the south entrance to La Porte, this museum offers family-friendly exhibits on local history, including vintage cars, Civil War artifacts, and a weapons collection. It’s not overwhelming for kids, with engaging displays that appeal to curious minds. Admission is affordable (around $5/adult, free for kids under 12), and the museum hosts events like the Annual Old Car Show (July), which kids enjoy for its classic vehicles. Open Tuesday-Saturday.
  • Soldiers Memorial Park (250 Pine Lake Ave, La Porte): A scenic park near Pine Lake with paved trails, a playground, and spaces for picnics or festivals. The Fort La Play Porte playground at Kesling Park (adjacent) is a newly redesigned, accessible play area funded by a community crowdfunding campaign. Families can enjoy biking, walking, or attending events like the Annual WinterFest (late January), which features ice skating, winter games, and kid-friendly activities. Free entry, with ample parking.
  • Billy Boy’s Blueberry Barn (650 Freyer Rd, Michigan City, ~10 miles from La Porte): A fun U-pick blueberry farm where families can pick fresh berries and enjoy a relaxed, outdoor experience. The staff encourages kids to “eat as much as you want” while picking, and the farm offers picnic areas and a farmstand with honey and other products. Open seasonally (June-August), with affordable pricing (around $3-$5/lb). Reviewers praise the friendly vibe and plentiful berries.
  • La Porte County Fair (2581 IN-2, La Porte, held annually in July): A week-long celebration with classic fair fun for families, including carnival rides, 4-H animal exhibits, livestock auctions, live music, and fair food like corn dogs and cotton candy. Kids enjoy the petting zoo and tractor pulls, while the demolition derby is a hit for all ages. Admission is around $5-$10, with free parking. It’s a quintessential small-town experience that draws families from across the region.
  • Sunflower Fair (Downtown La Porte, held annually in September): A free, family-friendly festival celebrating fall with sunflower displays, arts and crafts, live music, food vendors, and kids’ activities like face painting and games. The vibrant downtown atmosphere, with boutique shops and restaurants, makes it a great day out for families.
  • Lakeshore Lanes (2820 E Michigan Blvd, Michigan City, ~12 miles from La Porte): A family-friendly bowling alley with more than just lanes. It offers karaoke Sundays, a concession stand, and occasional kids’ events. It’s an affordable indoor option for rainy days, with games around $3-$5 per person.

Additional Notes:

  • Downtown La Porte is walkable and family-friendly, with the historic La Porte Indiana Courthouse (813 Lincolnway) as a photogenic centerpiece. Kids can enjoy nearby ice cream shops or casual dining at places like Mucho Mas (Mexican, recommended for families).
  • For a unique experience, Sandy Acres Clydesdales (14336 IN-2, La Porte) offers tours ($10 basic, $25 VIP) where kids can brush and feed Clydesdale horses, learning about their history. It’s educational and hands-on, ideal for animal lovers.
  • Many attractions are free or low-cost, making La Porte a budget-friendly destination. Check livinthelakelife.org or southshorecva.com for event calendars and seasonal hours.
  • If you’re visiting in winter, the WinterFest at Soldiers Memorial Park includes free ice skating and sledding, weather permitting.

These activities offer a mix of outdoor adventures, educational experiences, and seasonal fun, all within a short drive from Exit 49. 

Finally, South Bend, Indiana, is approximately 30-35 miles from Exit 49 of the Indiana Toll Road, making it a bit farther than Michigan City, New Buffalo, or La Porte but still accessible for a day trip or extended visit. The area is rich with family-friendly attractions that cater to a variety of interests, from outdoor adventures to educational museums and sports experiences. Below is a curated list of top family-friendly attractions in and around South Bend, based on local insights and available information, with an emphasis on activities suitable for kids and families.

Top Family-Friendly Attractions in South Bend, Indiana

  • Potawatomi Zoo (500 S Greenlawn Ave, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • Indiana’s oldest zoo, spanning 23 acres with over 400 animals, including giraffes, leopards, tigers, and bison. Highlights include the Giraffe Visitor Center for feeding experiences, the Potawatomi Express train ride, and the Endangered Species Carousel. The zoo also has a play area, picnic spots, and a Zoo Farm Feeding Area. Open seasonally (April-October), with Winter Days events (weekends, 12-3 PM). Admission is affordable (~$12/adult, $10/child, free for under 2). Reviewers praise its manageable size for young kids and interactive exhibits.
  • Four Winds Field at Coveleski Stadium (501 W South St, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • Home to the South Bend Cubs, a High-A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs, this baseball stadium is a family favorite. Beyond the games, kids enjoy a splash pad, a Fun Zone with inflatables and games, a baseball-themed playground, and batting cages (fee-based). The stadium hosts promotions like fireworks nights, $2 drink Thursdays, and giveaways, making it a lively outing. Season runs April-September, with tickets starting at ~$13 (including food deals on Tuesdays). It’s a quintessential American experience with kid-friendly amenities.
  • Howard Park (219 S St Louis Blvd, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • A vibrant urban park featuring a state-of-the-art ice skating trail in winter (November-March), where families can glide past playgrounds and over bridges. In summer, it offers a splash pad, an ADA-accessible playground with innovative equipment, and trails for walking or biking. The Howard Park Public House provides family-friendly dining. Free to visit, though skating rentals cost ~$5-$10. Reviewers highlight its appeal for all ages and accessibility features.
  • Indiana Dinosaur Museum (South Bend, near South Bend International Airport, ~32 miles from Exit 49)
    • A newer attraction featuring 43 dinosaur sculptures, 30 skeletons, and rare real dinosaur skin. Kids can dig for fossils, explore interactive displays, and visit a working research lab. The museum is engaging for all ages but particularly exciting for young dinosaur enthusiasts. Admission is ~$15/adult, $10/child. Reviewers call it a well-curated, hands-on experience, though it’s relatively small.
  • Kidsfirst Children’s Museum at The History Museum (808 W Washington St, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • Located within The History Museum, this interactive children’s museum lets kids explore history through hands-on exhibits like a log cabin, one-room schoolhouse, trading post, and Conestoga wagon. Designed to spark imagination, it’s ideal for younger children learning about early South Bend life. Admission (~$10/adult, $6/child) includes access to The History Museum and the 38-room Oliver Mansion (Copshaholm). A great indoor option for rainy days.
  • South Bend Chocolate Company Factory and Museum (3300 W Sample St, South Bend, ~32 miles from Exit 49)
    • A sweet stop for families, offering 45-minute tours of the chocolate-making process, complete with hairnets, chocolate samples, and a chocolate-dipped spoon activity. The museum showcases chocolate history, and the outlet store has deals on truffles and fudge. The downtown Chocolate Cafe (122 S Michigan St) has an indoor play area and kid-friendly menu. Tours cost $5/adult, $2/child (ages 2-11). Perfect for a fun, educational treat.
  • East Race Waterway (126 S Niles Ave, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • The first man-made whitewater rafting course in the U.S., open June-September for kayaking and rafting (Saturdays/Sundays). While rafting is better for older kids (ages 10+), families with younger children can enjoy picnicking along the walkways, watching the action, or exploring nearby trails. Rafting costs ~$10-$15/person, but spectating is free. It’s a thrilling and unique attraction for adventurous families.
  • Potato Creek State Park (25601 IN-4, North Liberty, ~25 miles from Exit 49)
    • A 3,840-acre state park with a 327-acre Worster Lake, offering swimming, fishing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboat rentals. Families can hike or bike on trails, visit the Nature Center, or enjoy the playground and picnic areas. The park is great for wildlife spotting and has a sandy beach for summer fun. Entry is $7/vehicle (in-state) or $9/vehicle (out-of-state), with camping options available. Ideal for a full day of outdoor activities.
  • HealthWorks! Kids’ Museum (111 W Jefferson Blvd, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • A fun, health-focused museum with interactive exhibits like an indoor playground, climbing wall, and programs such as “Super Scrubbers” (hygiene) and “Food Group Frenzy” (nutrition). It encourages active learning through play, making it ideal for younger kids. Admission is ~$8/child, $10/adult. Reviewers note its engaging approach to teaching health and fitness.
  • University of Notre Dame Campus (South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • The iconic campus offers free family-friendly activities, including strolling past the Golden Dome, visiting the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or exploring the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Compton Family Ice Arena has public skating sessions (~$5-$10, including rentals), and the Snite Museum of Art (free) features kid-friendly art exhibits. The campus is stroller-friendly, and the Notre Dame mobile app enhances self-guided tours. Perfect for a low-cost, scenic outing.

Additional Family-Friendly Attractions Near South Bend

  • St. Patrick’s County Park (50651 Laurel Rd, South Bend, ~35 miles from Exit 49)
    • A 398-acre park with wooded trails, ponds, and access to the St. Joseph River. Families can hike, fish, or enjoy the playground and picnic areas. In summer, rent kayaks or canoes; in winter, try cross-country skiing or sledding. The park has a splash pad and is pet-friendly (leashed dogs). Entry is $5/vehicle. A great spot for nature-loving families.
  • South Bend Farmers Market (1105 Northside Blvd, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • A vibrant market (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, year-round) with fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and kid-friendly food stalls. Kids can enjoy the festive atmosphere and occasional live music or events. Free to visit, with affordable treats. It’s a fun, community-focused stop for families.
  • Morris Performing Arts Center (211 N Michigan St, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • This historic venue hosts family-friendly shows, including national touring stage productions, live music, and movie screenings. Check the calendar for kid-oriented performances like holiday shows or children’s theater. Ticket prices vary (~$10-$50). A cultural outing that’s engaging for all ages.
  • Rum Village Park (2626 S Gertrude St, South Bend, ~30 miles from Exit 49)
    • A 160-acre park with 3 miles of trails, a disc golf course, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The Rum Village Dog Park is a hit for families with pets, and the wooded trails are great for easy hikes or biking. Free entry, with a splash pad in summer. Reviewers praise its mix of nature and kid-friendly amenities.
  • Bendix Woods County Park (56990 New Carlisle, IN, ~20 miles from Exit 49)
    • A 195-acre park with the Big Tree Trail, ideal for family hikes among beech and maple trees. Kids can enjoy birdwatching, a playground, and picnic areas. In winter, it’s popular for sledding. Free entry, with a nature center for educational fun. A peaceful outdoor escape close to Exit 49.

Notes and Tips

  • Seasonal Considerations: Many attractions, like the Potawatomi Zoo and East Race Waterway, are seasonal (spring/summer), while others, like Howard Park’s ice skating, shine in winter. Check websites for current hours and event schedules.
  • Budget-Friendly Options: Several attractions are free (e.g., Notre Dame campus, farmers market) or low-cost (e.g., Potato Creek State Park, South Bend Chocolate tours), making South Bend ideal for families on a budget.
  • Dining: Family-friendly restaurants include Tippecanoe Place Restaurant (620 W Washington St) in a historic mansion, South Bend Brew Werks (321 S Main St) with kid-friendly flatbreads, and Rocco’s (537 N St Louis Blvd) for Italian comfort food.
  • Proximity to Exit 49: Attractions are 20-35 miles from Exit 49, with most in South Bend proper (~30-minute drive via US-20 or I-90). Bendix Woods and Potato Creek are closer, at ~20-25 miles.
  • Resources: For more ideas, visit visitsouthbend.com or southshorecva.com for event calendars and family-focused guides.

This list provides a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, catering to various ages and interests, from toddlers to teens.