30 Must Visit Places In Merrillville
Looking for a fun getaway in the Midwest? Merrillville, Indiana might just be your next favorite spot. This charming town offers a mix of outdoor adventures, historical sites, and family-friendly activities. Whether you’re into hiking, shopping, or exploring local history, Merrillville has something for everyone. Imagine spending a day at Deep River Waterpark, then grabbing a bite at one of the local eateries. Or perhaps you’d prefer a peaceful stroll through Oak Ridge Prairie. From the Albanese Candy Factory to the Merrillville Community Planetarium, there’s no shortage of places to see and things to do. Ready to plan your trip? Let’s dive into the 30 must-visit places in Merrillville!
Discover the Best of Merrillville
Merrillville, Indiana, may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking of travel destinations, but this charming town has plenty to offer. From parks to shopping centers, Merrillville is packed with hidden gems waiting to be explored. Here are 30 must-visit places in Merrillville that will make your trip unforgettable.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Nature lovers will find plenty of outdoor activities in Merrillville. The town boasts several parks and recreational areas perfect for a day out.
Hidden Lake Park Hidden Lake Park offers a serene environment with a beautiful lake, walking trails, and picnic areas. It's a great spot for fishing, bird-watching, or just relaxing by the water.
Pruzin Park Pruzin Park features playgrounds, sports fields, and a community center. It's ideal for families looking to spend some quality time outdoors.
Oak Ridge Prairie & Oak Savannah Trail This park offers hiking and biking trails through prairies and woodlands. It's a fantastic place for nature walks and spotting local wildlife.
Stoney Run County Park Stoney Run County Park is perfect for hiking, picnicking, and even cross-country skiing in the winter. The park's diverse landscape makes it a year-round destination.
Shopping and Entertainment
Merrillville is a shopper's paradise with a variety of malls and entertainment options. Whether you're looking for high-end brands or unique local shops, you'll find it here.
Southlake Mall Southlake Mall is the largest shopping center in the area, featuring over 150 stores, a food court, and a movie theater. It's a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
Albanese Candy Factory A visit to the Albanese Candy Factory is a treat for the senses. Take a tour to see how their famous gummies and chocolates are made, and don't forget to sample some sweets.
Star Plaza Theatre Although currently closed, the Star Plaza Theatre has been a historic venue for concerts and events. Keep an eye out for future developments at this iconic location.
Merrillville Community Planetarium The Merrillville Community Planetarium offers educational shows about astronomy and space. It's a fascinating experience for both kids and adults.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Merrillville has a rich history and vibrant culture. Explore these sites to get a deeper understanding of the town's heritage.
Merrillville-Ross Township Historical Museum This museum showcases the history of Merrillville and Ross Township through exhibits and artifacts. It's a must-visit for history buffs.
John Dillinger Museum Located nearby in Crown Point, the John Dillinger Museum offers a glimpse into the life of the infamous gangster. It's an intriguing stop for those interested in criminal history.
Indiana Ballet Theatre The Indiana Ballet Theatre hosts performances and offers dance classes. Catch a show or take a class to experience the local arts scene.
Merrillville Community Center The community center hosts various events, workshops, and activities. It's a hub for local culture and community engagement.
Dining and Nightlife
Merrillville's dining scene is diverse, offering everything from casual eateries to fine dining. After a day of exploring, unwind at one of these popular spots.
Gamba Ristorante Gamba Ristorante offers an upscale dining experience with a menu featuring Italian cuisine. The elegant atmosphere makes it perfect for a special night out.
Asparagus Asparagus serves a fusion of Thai and Vietnamese dishes in a chic setting. Their unique flavors and stylish presentation make it a local favorite.
Coopers Hawk Winery & Restaurant Enjoy a meal paired with wines from Coopers Hawk's own winery. The restaurant offers a relaxed yet sophisticated dining experience.
Buddy & Pals Place This lively bar and grill is a great spot for casual dining and live music. It's a popular hangout for both locals and visitors.
Family-Friendly Activities
Merrillville offers plenty of activities that are perfect for families. From interactive museums to fun parks, there's something for everyone.
Deep River Waterpark Just a short drive from Merrillville, Deep River Waterpark is a fun destination for families. With water slides, wave pools, and lazy rivers, it's a great way to cool off in the summer.
Bellaboo's Play and Discovery Center Located nearby in Lake Station, Bellaboo's offers interactive exhibits and play areas for children. It's an educational and entertaining experience for young kids.
Funflatables This indoor play center features inflatable slides, obstacle courses, and bounce houses. It's a fantastic place for kids to burn off some energy.
Sky Zone Trampoline Park Sky Zone offers wall-to-wall trampolines, foam pits, and dodgeball courts. It's a high-energy activity that's fun for all ages.
Unique Local Attractions
Merrillville has some unique attractions that you won't find anywhere else. These spots offer a one-of-a-kind experience.
Taltree Arboretum & Gardens Explore the beautiful gardens and nature trails at Taltree Arboretum. The railway garden is a highlight, featuring miniature trains and landscapes.
Edge Adventures Aerial Park Test your limits at Edge Adventures, where you can navigate obstacle courses high in the trees. It's an exhilarating experience for adventure seekers.
The Shrine of Christ's Passion This interactive, half-mile winding pathway features 40 life-size bronze statues depicting the Passion of Christ. It's a moving and spiritual experience.
Crown Brewing Located in nearby Crown Point, Crown Brewing offers craft beers in a cozy setting. Take a tour of the brewery and sample some local brews.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Merrillville hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year. These gatherings offer a glimpse into the town's vibrant community spirit.
Merrillville Independence Day Parade Celebrate the Fourth of July with a parade featuring floats, marching bands, and local organizations. It's a festive event that brings the community together.
Greek Fest Held annually at Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Greek Fest offers delicious food, live music, and traditional dancing. It's a fun way to experience Greek culture.
Merrillville Farmers Market Open during the summer months, the farmers market offers fresh produce, handmade goods, and local crafts. It's a great place to support local vendors.
Festival of the Lakes Although held in nearby Hammond, the Festival of the Lakes is a popular event for Merrillville residents. Enjoy concerts, carnival rides, and fireworks by the lake.
Relaxation and Wellness
After all the excitement, take some time to relax and rejuvenate. Merrillville offers several spots where you can unwind and focus on wellness.
Avani Spa Avani Spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. It's the perfect place to pamper yourself.
Planet Fitness Stay active during your trip with a visit to Planet Fitness. The gym offers a variety of equipment and classes to keep you in shape.
Explore these 30 must-visit places in Merrillville to make the most of your trip. Whether you're into outdoor activities, shopping, history, or dining, Merrillville has something for everyone.
Merrillville's Hidden Gems Await
Merrillville offers a mix of history, nature, and entertainment that’s hard to beat. From the scenic trails at Deep River Waterpark to the rich history at the Albanese Candy Factory, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss the Star Plaza Theatre for a night of live performances or the Indiana Ballet Theatre for a touch of culture. Southlake Mall is perfect for shopping enthusiasts, while foodies will love the local eateries. Whether you’re into outdoor adventures or prefer a laid-back day exploring shops and museums, Merrillville has it all. Pack your bags and get ready to uncover the charm of this vibrant city. Your next adventure is just around the corner.
