Indiana Dunes National Park and Great Lake access in Michigan City
Folks wandering the Lake Michigan beaches along Indiana Dunes National Park may hear a peculiar sound as they take in the views of the Great Lake: a humming noise beneath their feet. An unusual variety of "singing sand" creates sound when walked over. Residents of Michigan City, Indiana, a city of about 32,000, might experience this phenomenon without even leaving the city limits. “In fact, some of the national park is within Michigan City,” says Danny Hogan, the membership director for the Michigan City Chamber of Commerce. “I would say the number one thing people enjoy is the proximity to Lake Michigan and the beaches.”
Besides ample tourism brought in by Lake Michigan, the Dunes and Blue Chip Casino, other important industries are manufacturing and, recently, healthcare. “We have Northshore Health downtown,” Hogan says. “Healthlinc opened a facility. Franciscan Hospital just turned 5 years old. And Northwest Health has facilities, too.”
More employment options are nearby: Michigan City is about 45 miles southeast of Chicago and 40 miles west of South Bend, Indiana. The South Shore Line passenger train connects Michigan City to Chicago. “It’s an hour train ride to Chicago,” Hogan says. “Some people even commute there, though maybe not every day.” U.S. Highways 12 and 20 cut through town, and Interstate 94 runs 4 miles south. South Bend International Airport is about 42 miles east.
The residential communities in Michigan City enjoy close proximity to Lake Michigan.
The residents of Michigan City enjoy the view of Lake Michigan at Indiana Dunes National Park.
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Mount Baldy is the largest living dune in the National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park is west along the lakeshore, as is Indiana Dunes State Park. “Personally, I think they’re among the best beaches in the country,” Hogan says. “Even the world.” Both parks offer residents sandy Lake Michigan beaches and opportunities for swimming, hiking, birdwatching, and experiencing the unique singing sands, which make their distinctive sound by way of wind-driven vibrations of sand grains. Mount Baldy is the largest living dune in the national park, meaning that it moves, typically about 4 feet a year, swallowing up everything in its path, even trees. Washington Park Beach offers picnic areas and lakeshore fun close to the Old Lighthouse Museum.
Mount Baldy is the largest living dune in Indiana Dunes National Park in Michigan City.
Washington Park Beach offers picnic areas and lakeshore fun in Michigan City.
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Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival is an iconic Michigan City event
The Singing Sands Sand Sculpting Festival takes place over three days on the shores of Lake Michigan in June, and the Lubzenik Art Festival brings over 80 artists to the Lubzenik Center for the Arts during an August weekend. The Old Lighthouse Museum offers visitors glimpses of Great Lakes history.
Lubeznik Center for the Arts hosts a yearly art festival in Michigan City.
The Old Lighthouse Museum is a decommissioned lighthouse located in the harbor of Michigan City.
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Housing options and new developments with median price below the nation’s
Home styles vary throughout Michigan City. Small ranch-style homes near the northwestern edge of town may need a little TLC. Other styles throughout the city include Cape Cods, bi-levels and a few Colonial Revival designs. The median housing price for single-family homes is about $200,000, lower than the national median of $420,000 and Indiana’s median of $260,000. “I mean, housing is an issue, same as everywhere,” Hogan says. “But they broke ground recently on a new subdivision, the first since the '50s, I believe. Another project called SoLa is a mixed-use development with two Wyndham hotels and condos that overlook Lake Michigan."
More changes are coming, too. “NIPSCO, our power plant, is being decommissioned in 2029,” Hogan says. “It borders the National Park. And we’ve had the Indiana State Prison, from which John Dillinger escaped, since Lincoln was president. That will be moved to Westville. People are excited to see what will happen to the area after those things are gone.”
Cape Cod-style homes are a popular choice of housing in Michigan City.
Michigan City is home to some stately Colonial Revival houses.
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Compressed Air Academy provides job training at Michigan City High
Michigan City Area Schools earns a C-plus from Niche. Michigan City High School offers an early college program. Its Compressed Air Academy, developed with several local industry partners, is for students interested in mechanics and future work for compressor and vacuum companies, several of which have facilities in and around Michigan City. Other career education options are available at the A.K. Smith Career Center.
Michigan City High School is the largest school in the Laporte County area with 1,650 students.
Career education programs are available at the A.K. Smith Career Center in Michigan City.
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Leeds Public House and Café Farina among local favorites
Tourists and residents alike can find plenty of good eats and shopping in Michigan City. “The Ritz Klub is the oldest establishment in the city, I believe,” Hogan says. “It’s a great place for burger and beer specials. It almost reminds me of the Cheers bar, where everyone knows your name.” Hogan also recommends Leeds Public House for American-style meals and Café Farina for Italian fare. Shoreline Brewery serves pub grub and microbrews, while Fluid Coffee Roasters is a go-to for caffeinated beverages. Shoppers can head to Lighthouse Place Premium Outlets.
Leeds Public House serves American-style meals to Michigan City diners.
Cafe Farina serves Italian food and classic cocktails to patrons in Michigan City.
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Important to know
According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, Michigan City’s property crime rate is higher than both the national average and Indiana state average, though it has declined steadily since a high in late 2020. The violent crime rate is also higher than state and national averages. It has also declined since 2020, but not as significantly as the property crime rate.
Michigan City weather is impacted by Lake Michigan, creating significant precipitation. Cold winters and temperate summers, with highs in the 70s, are typical.
Written By
Ty Phelps
Photography Contributed By
Jonathan Fairfield
Video By
Amon Parson
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeff McCormick,
an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Michigan City, IN sell after 56 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Michigan City, IN over the last 12 months is $250,000, down 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Here's a grand 4 bedroom, 2 and one quarter baths traditional brick tudor ready for you to call home. Built in 1936, all the character and charm has been retained with spacious rooms, hardwood floors and original woodwork. The side entrance leads to the kitchen with ceramic backsplash, tin ceiling and stainless steel appliances. Just beyond is the stunning dining room boasting two full sized
Experience the quintessential Michigan City lifestyle in this rarely available 1-bedroom, 1-bath condo! Nestled directly on Trail Creek, this unit is your peaceful retreat with effortless access to the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan. Imagine waking up to Lake Michigan views every single day. You can savor these spectacular scenes directly from your covered balcony, which offers a peaceful
Welcome to the highly anticipated new phase of Beachwalk! This is your chance to own one of these limited availability oversized Beachwalk lots. Lot 181B offers an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a customized living experience in the most sought after resort community in the Region. The large lots are nestled within a wooded area with easy vehicular access off Washington Park Boulevard
Welcome to the highly anticipated new phase of Beachwalk! This is your chance to own one of these limited availability oversized Beachwalk lots. Lot 182B offers an exceptional opportunity for those seeking a customized living experience in the most sought after resort community in the Region. The large lots are nestled within a wooded area with easy vehicular access off Washington Park Boulevard
Approximately 5.38 Acres of commercial property near the busy, signaled intersection of W 400 N and N 950 W. Located at the southern corridor of Michigan City. Traffic along I-94 averages 45,000 per day. Great ingress/egress from 950 W and a signaled intersection at 950 W and 400 N. New development fills the area from hotels and restaurants to a bank and medical facilities including the state of
Corner Lot on Michigan Blvd zoned B2-General Commercial. High visibility location with new development happening all around. Michigan City's new state-of-art police station across the street and a Dunkin Donuts Express built 2023 only a few blocks down the blvd. Close proximity to the Arts District, South Shore Train, Washington Park Beaches, and the soon to be $280 Million mixed-use development
Discover a rare opportunity to own a prime piece of land in the coveted Sheridan Beach neighborhood of Michigan City, Indiana. The lot's proximity to the Indiana Dunes National Park, just a few minutes away, provides ample opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring nature. This buildable lot combines natural beauty with convenience, offering a tranquil retreat that's still close to modern
Welcome to the 21.814 acres of W 400 N. This large parcel at the Southern corridor to Michigan City is conveniently located off I-94 and U.S. 421 (Franklin St). Zoned B-3 Highway Commercial. New development surrounds the area including a the substantial investment in a new hospital by Franciscan Health. Geographically perfect location offers two frontages of over 700 feet each. The Northern front
14 Commercial Acres For Sale in the Heart of Michigan City's Shopping District - Zoned B2 ~ Larger Scale Community Commercial Uses Including Shopping Centers, Big-Box Retail and Auto-Oriented Commercial Services plus much more.. Adjacent Commerical Property also available for Sale (MLS 830817) - could provide THIS Property with 150 Ft. of FRANKLIN ST. FRONTAGE - If a Grander Entrance is more
Modern floor plan in an updated 3 bedroom ranch. This house features a kitchen and eat-in dining area open to the spacious living room. This home may be sold as furnished. There have been recent updates including interior flooring, thermo windows, bathroom upgrade, new shingled roof, and stainless appliances. The new picket fencing front and back is great for family and pets while enhancing curb
Welcome to The Bolka Dot House, a truly turnkey short-term rental opportunity in Michigan City, IN. This recently renovated and meticulously designed property has been operating as a successful full-time Airbnb since 2022 and is being sold with all curated furniture--ready for your next investment or retreat. With just under 2,500 sq. ft. of living space and a detached garage, this home offers
This floorplan features over 1,800 square feet of living space and includes 3 bedrooms, a game room and 2 1⁄2 baths. The first floor features an open concept layout with a large great room and spacious kitchen, with optional center island, plus a dining nook. The laundry room is conveniently located on the first floor along with a mudroom, with optional built in benches, and powder room. The
Beautiful tree lined community at the Trail Creek neighborhood. The most spacious apartments in Michigan City. Onsite management and maintenance to take care of all your resident needs. Walk to school, plenty of parking.
Our Michigan City apartments greet you with an attractive list of amenities and services, along with well-designed floor plans, all at competitive rates. Don't forget to bring your four-legged companion—we are a pet-friendly community! For an easier move-in process, we have flexible leases and furnished apartments available through VIA by Edward Rose. Start your next chapter with a fresh slate.
Enjoy being minutes from I-94 and the Lighthouse Outlet Mall. Near shopping and entertainment, and only 2 miles from Lake Michigan Casino and The Zoo. Lovely grounds, caring staff, these spacious apartment homes include utilities included in some buildings. Central location close to shopping, dining, and more. Access to all main transportation corridors including South Shore rail line. Close to
“Escape the Surprises—Everything’s Included at Village West.”Spacious 1 & 2 Bedroom Apartments – ALL Utilities Included!Live Better with All-Inclusive Rent at Village West ApartmentsTired of surprise bills and confusing fees? At Village West Apartments in Michigan City, we believe in simple, honest living—all major utilities are included in your rent. That’s right: no
Discover comfortable living at Woodland Crossing Apartments in Michigan City, Indiana. Our pet-friendly community offers spacious one-,two- and three- bedroom apartments perfect for any lifestyle. Each apartment home features fully equipped kitchens, In-unit washer and dryer hook-ups, private locked storage, and individual climate control with central air and heat. Relax in beautifully landscaped
About Long Beach Cove Villas - With convenient access to HWY 12 and Interstate 94, this 136 unit apartment community is adjacent to Long Beach on Lake Michigan. Two and three bedroom units have floor plans from 964 to 1,473 sq.ft. Each unit has a spacious living and dining area; kitchen complete with refrigerator with ice maker and dishwasher; laundry closetwasher/dryer hook ups in each unit;
Property Id: 2301421Welcome to your new home at 1303 Buffalo St! This spacious 1,700sqft 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom unit in Michigan City is perfect for you. Recently remodeled, it has all new windows, flooring, bathroom, appliances.This is a first floor apartment in a triplex and also features a ramp to the sidewalk, ideal for people with limited mobility.Shared washer and
Property Id: 2301422Welcome to your new home at 1303 Buffalo St in Michigan City! This large 2-bedroom, 1-bathroom unit is perfect for a small family or roommates. This 2nd floor recently remodeled apartment features new floors, windows, kitchen and bathroom. Heating is through forced air.Shared washer and dryer in the basement. Rent includes water and sewer, tenant is
Property Id: 1944737Freshly renovated from top to bottom, this home is designed for relaxed coastal living. New paint, new floors, new toilet and sink. We are happy to answer any specific questions you have. We expect to have new photos popping onto the listing in the 2 weeks.
Property Id: 1441689Welcome to this clean, well-maintained upstairs 2-bedroom unit at 123 1/2 Fulton St in Michigan City. This 907 sq ft home offers practical space, natural light, and a quiet setting ideal for a working professional or couple.Features include:• In-unit laundry hookups• Private driveway parking• Two comfortable bedrooms• Fresh paint throughout•
The advertised rate of $4,413/month is the lowest available price, based on a 1 month(s) stay with a move-in date of September 7, 2026.Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, season, and other parameters. For exact pricing and additional pricing components, please visit our website and enter your desired move-in and move-out dates. The rate is applicable when billed upfront; it can
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