Valpo Community > Visiting Valparaiso

Visiting Valparaiso

Ogden Gardens Even with positive and steady growth, Valparaiso still retains a small town ambience which boasts vibrant live theater culture, a dynamic parks and recreation system, drive-in theater, u-pick farms, championship golf (both public and private), art and history museums, snow skiing, and Division I college sports.

One of the key factors contributing to the charm of Valparaiso is a quaint but dynamic downtown area. Here, a century-old courthouse surrounded by unique shops, boutiques, and restaurants creates a wonderful place to shop, stroll, gather, and relax. Victorian area homes are within walking distance. Special downtown area activities include something for everyone – from nationally renowned Popcorn Festival which attracts some 55,000 people each fall, to a farmer’s market in the summer featuring ripe fruit, vegetables, blooming flowers and plants. A range of restaurants from pizza parlors, bakeries, a European market, sandwich shops, coffee houses to unique bistros, provide dining options from casual to elegant.

If you are looking to build sand castles on a spectacular beach or commune with nature in a day long bike ride or hike you can travel just 12 miles north to the fabulous Indiana Dunes. And when your day is complete Valparaiso offers a choice of accommodations from hotels to luxurious, tranquil bed and breakfast inns. Valparaiso…your escape to history, nature, charm and fun!