Attractions and Places To See around Beverly Shores - Top 12

Beverly Shores is surrounded by the Indiana Dunes National Park, offering diverse natural landscapes. You can visit Lake Michigan Beach and Sand Dunes, which is the only Great Lake entirely within the United States. Another highlight is Mount Holden, the second highest dune in Indiana, offering elevated views. The area also features the Cowles Bog National Natural Landmark, known for its outstanding plant diversity, and the Great Marsh Trail, excellent for hiking and bird watching.

Yes, Beverly Shores offers a variety of hiking trails. For easy options, consider the Beach Trail leading to Lake Michigan, or the Dune Ridge Trail which provides views into the Great Marsh. Moderate trails include the Singing Sands Trail and the Glenwood Dunes Trail. You can find more details and routes in the Hiking around Beverly Shores guide.

Beverly Shores is home to several unique historical landmarks. The most notable are the Century of Progress Homes, five architecturally significant houses originally displayed at the 1933 Chicago World's Fair. You can view their exteriors along Lake Front Drive. Another key site is the Beverly Shores Depot Museum & Art Gallery, a 1929 pink stucco building that serves as both an active train station and a museum preserving local history. The Depot is also the starting point for the Beverly Shores Heritage Trail, a self-guided walking tour of historically significant locations.

While most of the Century of Progress Homes are privately leased and restored, you can drive or walk along Lake Front Drive to see their exteriors year-round. An annual architectural tour in October sometimes offers a chance to explore them more closely. For more information on the district, you can visit the National Park Service page: nps.gov.

Absolutely! Beverly Shores and the surrounding Indiana Dunes National Park offer several family-friendly options. The Lake Michigan Beach and Sand Dunes is perfect for a day out, and the Beach Trail is an easy hike suitable for families. The Lake View Picnic Area is also a scenic spot for a picnic followed by a walk on the sandy beach. Many trails within the Indiana Dunes National Park are suitable for various ages and abilities.

The best time to visit Beverly Shores largely depends on your interests. Spring and fall are ideal for bird watching, as the area is a top location for diverse species during migration seasons. Summer offers warm weather perfect for enjoying Lake Michigan beaches and swimming. For those interested in architectural tours, October is when the annual tour of the Century of Progress Homes sometimes takes place. The region's natural beauty can be appreciated year-round.

Beverly Shores is a prime location for bird watching, especially during migration seasons. The Great Marsh Trail offers excellent opportunities to spot diverse bird species, including Northern Shrikes and Sandhill Cranes. The town actively works to create and preserve a bird-friendly environment, making many natural areas suitable for observation.

Yes, Beverly Shores is an excellent spot for stargazing. It was designated as the World's Seventh International Dark Sky Community in 2014, recognizing its commitment to reducing light pollution and preserving the night sky. This makes it a fantastic location to observe stars and celestial events.

Beyond hiking, you can enjoy various outdoor activities near Beverly Shores. The area is popular for running, with routes like the Singing Sands Trail and the Mount Holden – Mount Tom Viewpoint loop. Cycling is also a great option, with routes such as the Calumet Gravel Trail and longer road cycling loops. Explore more options in the Running Trails around Beverly Shores and Road Cycling Routes around Beverly Shores guides.

While popular spots can get busy, exploring trails like the Dune Ridge Trail or sections of the Great Marsh Trail might offer a more serene experience, especially during off-peak hours or seasons. The Calumet Gravel Trail also provides an opportunity to see wildlife in a natural environment, potentially offering a quieter experience.

Visitors frequently highlight the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The pristine beaches of Lake Michigan, the diverse ecosystems of the Indiana Dunes National Park, and the architectural marvels of the Century of Progress Homes are often cited as favorites. The community also appreciates the opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching, as well as the town's commitment to preserving its dark skies for stargazing.