Dec 21, 2018
Griegers Cool Car...No Bound-top -daycations-day trips by cararies- Valpo's Central Park, Griegers sponsored music venue

This months blog, “Cool Cars…No Boundaries, you’ll learn the Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019.  I think you’ll agree with me that when it comes to discovering and planning your adventures around the region, nobody is more of an authority than Speros Batistatos, top boss at the South Shore Convention and Visitor Authority. You’ll meet Speros one-on-one as he drives a Ram truck. He discusses some of the coolest events in 2019, and shares his tips for “remarkable daycation destinations.”

Your inside track to the coolest daycation trips in the Region.

When it comes to having an inside track to the cool destinations in 2019 …. Speros is on top of the food chain.  As President and CEO of the South Shore, Speros has his finger on the pulse of what’s happening along the South Shore and throughout Northwest Indiana….the Region.  A top authority deserves a cool vehicle to drive, something that defines the Region.  For what just might be the biggest blog of the year, we chose a vehicle without compromise.  Speros test drives a $67,000 Ram 1500 Limited in Da’ Region as he shares his top picks for 2019.  Let’s roll.

What is Da’ Region…. and what are the boundaries?

To get started, we asked Speros to help define what is meant by, “Da Region.”  My old college buddy from Hobart has always suggested its everywhere in Northwest Indiana, excluding Chesterton. I called a friend in Chesterton. He claimed Hobart was voted off the island back in the 50’s.  Ironically, both friends could only agree on one thing….that Valpo and Munster weren’t tough enough to be called “Region Rats.”

I called a few friends in Valpo to get a response.  I can’t tell you what my Valpo friends said… this is a family friendly blog.

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According to Speros, the friendly, yet combative lines that divide the region have existed for generations, but in many ways, it holds back the region from the benefits of collaboration.  Held together by a common work ethic and pride in American tradition, Northwest Indiana offers the unique resources, diversity and culture to attract people and businesses that are looking to relocate.

After 100 years… Da Region is defined!

According to the South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority,  “Da Region” is the section of the Chicago metropolitan area that overflows past the Indiana border. The Region is a cultural melting pot creating a very diverse and unique place that is different by far than any other location in Indiana.

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Northwest Indiana is comprised of Lake, Porter, LaPorte, Newton and Jasper counties in Indiana. This region neighbors Lake Michigan and is part of the Chicago metropolitan area. Northwest Indiana is the state’s second largest urban area after the Indianapolis metro.

Individually, Northwest Indiana cities, towns and villages are as unique and diverse as the folks that call them home.  Something for everyone.  Scroll down below our featured Ram review for a little description of each town’s unique past history.  With the help of Speros, we’ve included links to each town, including links to the top things to do, events, and festivals that are worthy of a trip in a cool car… with no boundaries.

Events

Northwest Indiana is a destination for Events…and why not?  Our people are, well….festive. We know how to have fun.  Can we  throw a party?  The best!  If celebrating life were a degree…the region would be Rhoad Scholars.   What better way to share our unique culture and spirit of community then a festival.

Pencil in your plans to visit  Crown Point, Whiting, Portage, Chesterton,  Valparaiso. Of course, what event can top a day in the Dunes or a hike through our National Parks. No photograph can capture the moment of hiking all day through a “blow-out” and beholding the sight of Chicago’s magnificent skyline from the edge of a dune.

Valpo's top music venue- cool car...no boundaries blog , Griegers

According to the South Shore CVA, there is so much to do along the South Shore of Lake Michigan, the possibilities are endless. Explore the beachestrails, marshes, bogs, prairies and dunes at one of our county, state or national parks. View artwork from local and nationally known artists.

Feel the excitement of a live performance or find your next favorite craft beer or Indiana wineSplash at the waterpark, grab your ice skates or pick apples creating memories with family and friends.  For a complete guide, visit this link.  https://www.southshorecva.com/things-to-do/

Top Things to do in Northwest Indiana for 2019

21) Mascot Hall of Fame, Whiting

The much anticipated Mascot Hall of Fame is now open in Whiting! The 25,000 square foot facility is interactive and family-friendly with a wide range of exhibits, activities and events that celebrate mascot fun. mascothalloffame.com

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20) Albanese Confectionery,  Merrillville

Stop in for roasted nuts, World’s Best Gummies, chocolates and other sweet confections at this candy factory. Take a video tour of the factory and enjoy an experience where you feel like a kid again!  www.albanesecandy.com

top 21 things to do in Northwest indiana

19) Summer Outdoor Movie Nights, Valpo

Spending time with your loved ones, and catching some of your favorite films in the park at Summer Outdoor Movies. Watch some of the biggest hits from the past and present underneath the moon and the stars at The Porter Health Amphitheater in Central Park Plaza. From a recent Hollywood hit to one of the biggest films of yesteryear, each week we’ll be bringing you movies that the whole family can enjoy! Learn more.

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18) South Shore Winery Trail

Enjoy sipping on handcrafted and small-batch wines at 11 wineries in the South Shore. From sweet whites to dry reds, ciders, meads and more – you’ll find your favorite in the South Shore.  Various locations, www.alongthesouthshore.com/sswt

17) Poco Muse, Porter County Museum

The Museum is located in the old Jail House located on the southeast corner of the square in downtown Valparaiso.  It was originally served at an old Jail Sheriff’s residence, with the county jail positioned behind it.  If you haven’t met Kevin Pazour, or been by the Porter County Museum, I would encourage you to do so.  Kevin is a Valpo guy and one of the nicest guys you’ll ever meet.  His knowledge of the region is endless! Just check out Novembers blog, Cool Cars…No Boundaries.  You’ll learn about the Museums most ambitious exhibit ever! Learn more.

16) Shrine of Christ’s Passion, St. John

This free interactive half-mile winding pathway begins with the Last Supper and Garden of Gethsmane and features 40 life-size bronze sculptures depicting the Passion of Christ.   www.shrineofchristspassion.org

15) Wine Festival, Valparaiso’s Downtown

The Valparaiso Wine Festival brings over 100 wines from around the world with unlimited sips and samples. Learn about new and exciting varietals from the experts while you enjoy reds, whites and sparkling tastings.  Valpo Wine Fest

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14) Valpo University, Brauer Museum of Art

Brauer Museum, located Valparaiso University’s Center for the Arts, brings world-class art and culture to Northwest Indiana.  The Brauer Museum of Art is home to a nationally recognized collection of 19th-, 20th-, and 21st-century American art.  Along with displaying selections from its permanent collection, the Brauer Museum hosts a full schedule of special exhibitions and events.  The sophisticated museum is housed in the equally impressive Center for the Arts 1709 Chapel Drive.  If your into culture, this is a top pick for Grieger’s top things to do. Source- VU’s Brauer Museum

DELICIOUS, BEVERAGES AND GREAT-TASTING FOOD. THE SECRET TO MAKING LIFE BETTER.

13)  Fair Oaks Farms

Escape to the country with fun, food and learning at Fair Oaks Farms. Family-friendly tours include the Dairy Adventure, Pig Adventure and Crop Adventure. Fair Oaks Farms has on-site restaurants and an outdoor play area. Don’t forget to grab some fresh ice cream before you leave!  www.fofarms.com

12) Valpo Brewfest

Held in Downtown Valparaiso, you can sample from more than 200 different styles of beers from America’s best craft brewers and vote for your favorite Indiana craft beer as we award the coveted HOOSIER BREW award to the top vote recipient. Your Valpo Brewfest tickets not only get you access to great craft beer, but  you can raise your glass to supporting an organization, Valparaiso Events, that works year round to create a vibrant, thriving community!  Cheers to Ya!

Family owned and always there to support Valpo

 11) Casinos

Try your luck at one of the 5 casinos in Northwest Indiana: Horseshoe Casino Hammond, Ameristar Casino Hotel East Chicago, Majestic Star Casinos & Hotel in Gary or the Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City. Each casino features slots and table games as well as on-site restaurants and live entertainment.  www.alongthesouthshore.com

10) South Shore Brewery Trail

The tap never runs dry along the South Shore. More than 20 breweries are located in Northwest Indiana. Craft beer enthusiasts can enjoy ales, stouts, lagers, sours, IPAs, seasonal brews as well as delicious food and live entertainment. Beer festivals, collaboration brews and special events are all featured on the free South Shore Brewery Trail App – available to smartphone users.  , www.ssbrewerytrail.com

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9)  Valpo University Basketball at the ARC

The Region’s Division I team is big time entertainment!  This is one of the best hidden secrets for an amazing evening of fun.  Start your evening with dining in Valpo’s historic downtown dining district. The Arc is minutes away.  If you can get lucky enough to score  the comfortable chairback seats…do it.  Mosts of these seats are sold out to local residents.  I’m always impressed by the vast amount of community leaders that never miss a game.  The local fellowship is impressive at these games, but the level of competition will remind you this is big time basketball. This is clearly one of my personal favorites for  my top things to do in Northwest Indiana.  For more info, check out Valpo’s site.  Go Valpo!

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8)  Deep River Waterpark/Ice Skating, Crown Point -or- Valpo’s Central Park Ice Skating

Cruise down dozens of waterslides and water rides for all ages at the waterpark or skate under the clocktower in the winter. The perfect family getaway in all seasons.   www.deepriverwaterpark.com

7)  South Shore Arts/Theatre at the Center/NWI Symphony Orchestra, Munster

The Center for Visual and Performing Arts houses an art gallery, a theatre, gift shop and is the home of the NWI Symphony Orchestra. Catch a Broadway-style play or musical, view artworks by local and nationally recognized artists – all here in Northwest Indiana.   www.cvpa.org

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6) Holly Days, Valpo

Valpo’s Holly Days is a family event that reminds you of a great Christmas movie on the Hallmark Channel. When it comes to having family fun and Christmas,  you just don’t get any better then Downtown Valparaiso’s Holly Day’s.  On this night, Valpo’s quaint downtown is adorned with decorated window displays, illuminated trees line the streets and a 40 foot Christmas Tree becomes centerpiece to ice-skating in Central Park… and kids from one to ninety-nine serenade you to wonderful Christmas Carols. Just check out our blog,  Cool Cars…No Boundaries featuring organizer, Tina St Aubin.

5) Pierogi Fest, Whiting

Held the last weekend, Pierogi Fest brings thousands of visitors to 119th Street in downtown Whiting. The event kicks off with the wacky Polka Parade on Friday. More than 50 food vendors sell everything from roasted nuts to the infamous stuffed dumpling (the pierogi). Live entertainment, beer tent and so much more are available at this kooky festival.  Whiting, www.pierogifest.net

 Griegers best sound systems include the Jeep Wrangler and its Alpine

4) WhoaZone at Whihala Beach

Bounce, jump, run, play and splash your way through this floating waterpark and obstacle course at Whihala Beach in Whiting.  1561 Park Rd, Whiting, www.whoazonewhihala.com

3) Popcorn Festival, Valpo

The Valparaiso Popcorn Festival continues to offer family-fun activities for all ages. Over 250 arts & crafts booths, 35 food booths, kids’ games, five-mile Popcorn Panic, two live music stages and the nation’s first Popcorn Parade are only the beginning of the excitement of this incredible festival.

Griegers supports events

2)  Dining el fresco, Valpo’s Historic Downtown District

Set in historic downtown Valparaiso… over 15 innovative  restaurants joined together as friends to bring you an experience worthy of being called a Chicago foodie destination.   Committed to fresh and authentic cuisine, these restaurants are passionate about their food and wine.  Everyone always seems to be smiling when your dining in downtown Valpo…none more than the chefs!

With events and festivals throughout the year, Valpo has become a destination for foodies.  Each of these restaurants features outdoor spaces that are perfect for soaking in warm weather in the Vale of Paradise.  Indoor and outdoor spaces are as fresh and authentic as the cuisine itself.    -Bon Appetite!

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1) The Dunes, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Nothing defines the region quite like our #1 pick for top things to do in Northwest indiana.  If you haven’t experience a blow-out…make it your top goal for 209.  Paradise!  From Chicago to Michigan… the Dunes are a special opportunity to experience life.   More than 15,000 acres of wetlands, bogs, prairies, dunes, rivers and forests make up the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore. Visitors can view rare birds and exotic flowers or hike and bike miles of trails. The sandy beaches are the perfect spot to relax and enjoy beautiful Lake Michigan.  www.nps.gov/indu

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OK….so there’s your Top 21 things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019, but as you know, getting there is half the fun!

We couldn’t have been more excited than to have the President from the South Shore CVS as our guest for the biggest and most expansive blog of the year. If this is to be our biggest blog of the year, we wanted Speros to drive a vehicle that pushed the boundaries of “cool.”  The vehicle would need to be symbolic of Northwest Indiana…  Bold, tenacious, powerful, with a strong American heritage.  The vehicle we selected would need to have it all.  Technology, luxury and perhaps most importantly, it had to be cool.

We couldn’t agree on the perfect vehicle.  After much deliberation, we decided to take it to the street, or should I say the lot….the Grieger’s lot.  Fortunately, Griegers just received a new shipment of vehicles, so our timing was perfect.  The Griegers inventory was loaded with just about every make, model, color and option package.  Finding the right vehicle for this blog was getting fun!

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We considered the Jeep Wrangler- the vehicle that symbolized American grit and ingenuity. War is hell, and hell… the Jeep won the war!  Maybe we would have Spero drive the iconic Dodge Challenger with the “throaty” Hemi. Nope…the biggest blog of the year would need to be big!  We looked at the Chrysler Pacifica. As a blog that covers family daycations, this just might be the best pick.  Unfortunately, we just reviewed the Pacifica with Tina St. Aubin from Valpo Events in last month’s Holly Days blog.  Then it hit us. Lined-up in front of Griegers on US 30 were rows and rows of Ram Trucks.    What vehicle screams “Da Region” quite like a Big American Truck.

No other vehicle captures the essence of Northwest Indiana better than this $67,000 Ram Truck

No other vehicle seems to capture the essence of Northwest Indiana better then the Ram. Tough, tenacious, and plenty of cool! But we wanted something that was also luxurious and sophisticated. Brad Hallal from Griegers had the perfect solution, a $67,000 Ram 1500 Limited. Yes, you heard right…a $67,000 truck!

Valpo's Best Music Venues-Griegers-Cool-Car...No-Boundaries

Ok…enough talk.  It’s time to bring it all together.  We have the Northwest Indiana’s top expert driving around in a $67,000 Ram Truck, sharing his top tips for things to do in 2019.  What festivals and events will make Speros top destinations for 2019?  Speros currently drives a loaded Cadillac.  How will a Ram Truck stack up? Will Speros give the truck a good review?  Will I have a job writing blogs for Griegers after his review?  Your about to find out…..

The 2019 Ram did more than impress Spero, it was named Motor Trends 2019 of the Year.  Here is what Motor Trend’s editors  had to say,

The fifth-generation Ram 1500 is the latest in a long line of evolutionary leaps for Fiat Chrysler Automobiles bread-and-butter truck. The newest version, more than any other, seems poised to meet the needs of the 21st century truck buyer, with more variety, capability, comfort, convenience, and value than ever before.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but there’s no arguing that Ram retains its reputation for stylish functionality. “Best-in-class: sophisticated without going over the top,” editor-in-chief Ed Loh said.

Griegers Harmon Kardon sound review

Despite the many hats we expect our trucks to wear, at their heart, they are beasts of burden. To that end, the 2019 Ram 1500 excels.  The most important part of any pickup is its bed, and Ram continues to deliver. The bed rails have been raised 1.5 inches to increase cargo volume, and the optional RamBoxes grow in size with minimal impact on bed space.

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Some previous Ram innovations carry over, including the segment’s best combo bed extender and cargo divider, which stashes against the cab when not in use, and a CHMSL-mounted camera that looks down into the bed so you can triple-check your tie-down work while on the move.

No segment is more competitive or more important to Detroit’s automakers and blue-collar American workers than half-ton pickups. These trucks are the face of their brands—purchased, driven, and loved by millions. They’re dependable commuters, tools, and toys that form the backbones of our families. With such a diverse skill set needed, it’s easy to just miss the target. But the Ram 1500 hits the bull’s-eye. No pickup in the segment better balances capability, efficiency, value, and quality. The Ram 1500 retains its old-school appeal while being refreshingly modern in style and substance. It’s refined and sophisticated without surrendering its dirty-fingernails roots. For that, the Ram is our 2019 Truck of the Year.

Although Speros drove the best-of-the-best Ram, Brad Hallal of Griegers is quick to point out that this year’s Motor Trends, “Truck of the Year” comes in a variety of packages, from a no-nonsense work truck, fit for an American farmer, to the Ram Rebel that was made for off-road adventure seekers.

For folks that appreciate saving time and the fun that comes with  starting your shopping experience at home, Brad Hallal encourages you to check out the Griegers on-line home shopping page.  It offers real time inventory and incentives.

…keep reading!

17 Communities in Northwest Indiana you’ll want to check out in 2019….and why!

Valpo's live music venue

Valparaiso,  Indiana

In 1832, the U.S. government purchased the site of present-day Valparaiso and the surrounding area from the Potawatomi Indians. The town of Portersville, which was to be the county seat of the recently established Porter County, was divided and platted in 1836. Just a year later, the town was renamed “Valparaiso,” which means “vale of paradise” in Spanish, after the city in Chile near which the county’s namesake, David Porter, fought an important battle in the War of 1812.  Valparaiso is a destination for foodies, events and festivals found in its Valpo Downtown Dining scene.   It is also home of this blog’s sponsor. Griegers, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram.   Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority 

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Cedar Lake, Indiana

Cedar Lake has long been known as a popular resort destination. In the 1880s, the Monon Railroad started bringing tourists from Chicago to vacation in the area. At one point there were more than 50 hotels surrounding the lake. Although these hotels have since been replaced by homes and businesses, Cedar Lake has remained a popular destination.   Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority   

Chesterton, Indiana

Chesterton, located just south of the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore and Indiana Dunes State Park, is brimming with a diverse variety of activities and businesses.  For the outdoor enthusiast, Chesterton boasts both hiking and biking trails and is just minutes away from beautiful beaches along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Golfers will appreciate Chesterton’s two gorgeous golf courses, The Brassie and Sand Creek Country Club. Nature lovers can explore the Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve, which includes the Chesterton Amphitheatre, the Pavilion, Philips Pond, and Weir Bridge.  Chesterton is a Top 15 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors   Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority   

CoolCar.NoBoundaries. Valpo's top music venues include Tommy B's

Crown Point, Indiana

Incorporated in 1868, Crown Point is the county seat of Lake County. This beautiful city not only has a wealth of fascinating history, it also has an abundance of dining, entertainment, and recreational options.

The square offers many unique shops like Toys in the Attic and The Artful Garden. The historic courthouse boasts many interesting shops as well as the Lake County Historical Society Museum. The “Grand Old Lady,” as it’s known, was erected in 1878. It became known as the “Marriage Mill” since Crown Point required no waiting period for marriage licenses. Many notable people, including Rudolph Valentino and Cassius Clay (Mohammed Ali) were married there.  Deep River Water Park.  Crown Point is a Top 15 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers   Source-  South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority 

Valpo's best Music venues- Cool Car-No Boundaries

Dyer, Indiana

Visitors traveling through Dyer on Lincoln Highway, will be driving down the historic “Ideal Stretch”. The Ideal Stretch, the first paved road in Indiana, was part of Carl G. Fisher’s vision for a coast-to-coast rock highway which was unheard of in 1912.

The historic Meyer’s Castle, built in the 20th Century, sits on 10 acres of the town’s highest ground. Although the castle is privately owned, travelers can visit the Jacobethan Revival architecture at an Argentinean and Brazilian dinner by reservation at Rodizio’s Steak House, or host an event or get together on the castle grounds.   Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority   

Highland, Indiana

Highland was incorporated April 4, 1910 and was named for the sandy ridge that rose above the marsh. In the 1850s and long before incorporation, the area was made up of 53 acres of swampy land and known simply as the “Highlands.”  Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority    Griegers Motors 

Griegers Cool Car...No Boundaries- Valpo's Central Park, Griegers sponsored music venue

Hobart, Indiana

In 1845, English immigrant George Earle constructed a dam on Deep River to power sawmills and gristmills. Four years later, he named the settlement Hobart for his brother, Frederick Hobart Earle, who remained in England. The millpond that resulted from the dam became known as Lake George.

Hobart has expanded tremendously since those early days. The city offers visitors a wide variety of fun activities and exciting experiences. Lake George in downtown Hobart is a popular destination for fishing, boating and just strolling along the lakefront. The lake is home to the annual Clocktower Model Boat Race in September and Lakefront Festival in August.  Source-   South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority   -Hobart is a Top 15 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors 

La Porte, Indiana

Visit the lovely city of La Porte and find relaxation, convenience, and hospitality.

“Stroll along the Avenues” for a tour of the historic architectures. Stay at the Blue Heron Inn, eat at T Bones Pier 11, and play along the beautiful Pine Lake. Shopping in downtown La Porte features many boutiques, arts, and antiques.   Source-  South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority,  Griegers Motors 

Lowell, Indiana

Home to the oldest Labor Day Parade in Indiana, Lowell hosts a number of other events and festivals including Buckley Homestead Days, a WWII re-enactment, Cobe Cup Race, and many downtown events on Main Street.Lowell’s downtown is well-known for its antique and specialty shops housed in the original circa 1890 buildings. There are also numerous casual and fine dining restaurants.  This small town features Buckley Homestead, a living history farm that offers seasonal tours as well as annual festivals for the whole family.  South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority   

© 2012 Jon L. Hendricks – www.jonlhendricks.com

Merrillville, Indiana

The 31 square miles that encompass the town of Merrillville were once densely covered with forest and inhabited by the Potawatomi Indians. Originally known as McGwinn Village, the town went through several name changes before it was named Merrillville, after brothers Dudley and William Merrill. In 1971, it officially became a town under Indiana law.

Merrillville offers visitors a wide variety of shoppingdining and entertainment options. There’s also plenty for the outdoor enthusiast to enjoy. In the summer, Deep River Waterpark offers “splashtastic” family fun, and in the winter, has ice skating and special events. Golfers can choose from two golf courses, Turkey Creek Golf Course and Innsbrook Country Club.  Visitors can immerse themselves in a performance by the Indiana Ballet Theatre or move to the groove at a concert at the Star Plaza Theater.  Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority 

Michigan City, Indiana

Michigan City dates back to 1830, when a real estate speculator, Isaac C. Elston, purchased 160 acres of land. In the six years that followed, the city grew to encompass 15 square miles, had 10 hotels, a commercial district and more than 1,500 residents.

In the many years since the city’s incorporation in 1836, Michigan City has grown to be a large, vibrant city. Attracting thousands of visitors to the Indiana Dunes and the Lake Michigan shoreline, this lakeside city boasts many attractions, including Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets, Washington Park and Zoo, Blue Chip Casino, Hotel and Spa, and Lubeznik Center for the Arts.    

Griegers Cool Car...No Boundaries- Valpo's Central Park, Griegers sponsored music venue

Munster, Indiana

A suburban town with thriving businesses and extensive community resources, the town is home to over twenty parks, a vibrant art community, and a number of local, regional and national companies.

Centennial Park and Golf Course offers a family oriented environment with its large soccer fields, playground, clubhouse with banquet facilities,  restaurant with outdoor seating, outdoor pavilions, entertainment stage, formal gardens, 3-acre dog park, walking paths, fishing, and wide-open natural spaces. The Center for Visual and Performing Arts is the cultural focal point of the town.  The Center houses two art galleries and the award-winning Theatre at the Center where guests can enjoy Broadway musicals and plays. The center also invites guests to join them for a lavish Sunday brunch fit for the whole family.

The Community Veterans Memorial pays tribute to soldiers from every U.S. conflict of the 20th century. Artifacts, such as a helicopter and war weapons, are on display at the park. The landscape of the park resembles the geography of each war: WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam and Desert Storm.   Three Floyds is a small Artisanal craft brewery, globally recognized and top rated, while the brewpub is a staple of the nightlife in the area serving.  Source-   South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority.   Munster is a Top 15 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors 

Portage, Indiana

Portage, Indiana is located at the southern tip of Lake Michigan.  Portage is home to the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk. This redevelopment offers a fishing pier, restored 900 foot breakwater, 3,500 square foot public pavilion and plenty of parking for easy access to enjoy Lake Michigan.

Portage is also home to the Perch Fest and Grand Prix, which celebrates a fishing tournament and boat parade in the month of August.   Source-South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority.  Portage is a Top 15 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by  Griegers Motors

Schererville, Indiana

Historically, the town of Schererville was referred to as the “Crossroads of the Nation” because settlers traveling to the west used old Indian trails as a major intersection. The intersection of U.S. 30 and U.S. 41 is still known as the “Crossroads of America.”  Today, the dynamic town offers a variety of recreation, shopping and dining opportunities. Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority, Schererville is a Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors 

St. John, Indiana

St. John has been recognized as one of the “top 50 best small towns in the nation”. The town is positioned as a peaceful getaway with the option to connect to larger urban areas or enjoy the town’s vibrant night life. St. John is filled with quiet neighborhoods, quality schools and churches. Extensive bike and pedestrian trails provide many opportunities for activities for residents. The town offers many local specialty shops and selected larger retail stores.

Visitors can get in touch with their spiritual side at the Shrine of Christ Passion, indulge in the magnificent art featured at The Steeple Gallery, enjoy some family entertainment at Zig-E’s Funland, and dine out at some of the region’s most delicious restaurants ranging from authentic Italian cuisine to sports bars.  Source- South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority, St John is a Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors 

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Whiting, Indiana

If you’re looking for a city that is rich with history and ethnic diversity, then look no further than Whiting.

Whiting offers a variety of activities from dining and shopping to special events. If you’re a history lover, check out the gorgeous Carnegie Building which houses the Whiting Library or the Community Center given as a gift to Whiting by John D. Rockefeller.

And don’t forget to catch a movie while in town. The Hoosier Theatre resides downtown and is the only remaining “movie palace” in Northwest Indiana built in 1924 and its interior is a “must see!”  Source-  South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority  ,  Whiting is a Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by  Griegers Motors 

 Newton County

Located in the rural part of Northwest Indiana, Newton County is the place to enjoy a family-friendly adventure and made our list for Things to do in Northwest Indiana!

Agriculture plays a large role in Indiana and Fair Oaks Farms takes it to a whole new level! Tour a real farm on the Dairy or Pig Adventures with interactive exhibits and activities. Shop for award-winning cheeses, baked goods, gifts and more in the gift shop and market. Or enjoy a farm-fresh meal at The Farmhouse Restaurant. Source- South Shore CVA

 Fair Oaks Farms is a Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by  Griegers Motors 

Jasper County

Jasper County offers peaceful landscapes and small, friendly towns. Explore the outdoors, enjoy handcrafted meals or stop at one of the local festivals for food, fun and entertainment.

Those who enjoy the great outdoors will find many opportunities to hunt and fish. The county is also home to one of Indiana’s greatest wildlife spectacles at Jasper-Pulaski Fish and Wildlife Area. Each fall, tens of thousands of sandhill cranes visit Jasper-Pulaski’s shallow marshes on their migration south.

Those looking for a relaxing getaway can schedule some time at the beautiful golf courses and relax with a glass of Hoosier wine at Carpenter Creek Cellars.

Bring the kids to enjoy a fun and educational getaway. Splash, fish, cook-out and sleep under the stars at Caboose Lake Campground. Visit the unique agriculture venues like JT Shrimp LLC and Fair Oaks Farms’ Pig Adventure. Check out the many hometown festivals and events to enjoy the local food, culture and entertainment. Make sure to stop at one of Jasper County’s farmers’ markets or u-pick farms and return home with a delicious array of farm-fresh produce. Source-South Shore Convention & Visitors Authority, Jasper is a Top 21 Things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019  choice by Griegers Motors.  Read more

When we asked  Speros Batistatos to describe Northwest Indiana in a word, he answered, “opportunity”.  I think this is the perfect answer for an area that seems to exemplify the values that once made America great.  Opportunity is a wonderful thing and Northwest Indiana is a wonderful place.  Find your opportunity and make it the best year ever…with  our Top 21 things to do in Northwest Indiana in 2019.

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Cool Car….No Boundaries. Your Blog for Fun things to do in Northwest Indiana.

Griegers-Cool-Car-No-Boundaries-Blog-Author-Jim Jano Janesheski

Written by Jim Jano Janesheski

By Jim Jano Janesheski