The 10 Best & Fun Things to Do in La Porte (Indiana)

By nmwgroup | Updated May 26th, 2022

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The tourist attraction La Porte City (also known as La Porte) was founded in 1835 and has some of the best things to do in La Porte (Indiana). If you’re looking for the best places to visit, it’s a great place to start! These are the top ten attractions in La Porte, IN.

This Indiana town of 30,000 residents, La Porte will be the best day trip destination you’ve ever been to if you love shopping and eating delicious food while learning more about Indiana history.

Hesston Steam Museum

Hesston IN USA ,August 31 2019;workers drive a vintage steam engine and repair rocks on the tracks, during an event at the Hesston train museum

There are few things more iconic of small-town Indiana than an old steam engine. Hesston Steam Museum gives you and your family a chance to experience what life was like for people who lived during La Porte’s heyday as an industrial center.

The Steam Locomotives still operate today, they have three sizes available for you to choose from and enjoy the two-mile ride. The Conductors talk about the history of the Locomotives as they guide you through the woods, past farms, and fun steep grades. Stop by doc’s Soda fountain and enjoy a bite to eat or try their delicious ice cream. They also have a nice gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs.

Garwood Orchards

apple orchard, ripe fruits hanging on branch

Nestled in La Porte, Indiana, Garwood Orchards is one of those simple joys that are easy to miss on your way through town. A quaint orchard boasting fresh apples from mid-August through October along with homegrown veggies, homemade pastries and other tasty treats like pumpkins and sweet corn.

All these treats make for an ideal place to spend your day when venturing out into some of Indiana’s most beautiful country. There’s nothing more satisfying than biting into an apple fresh from the tree.

Sandy Acres Clydesdales

Head over to Sandy Acres Clydesdales for a hearty dose of Indiana history. Located just outside of La Porte, Indiana, these Clydesdales provide an educational and experiential approach to farm life that’s appropriate for all ages. The Clydesdales are large and powerful horses that were bred for their sheer strength in the 18th Century and were used for farming.

Since the first world war, their numbers have been steadily diminishing and are considered vulnerable to extinction in today’s world. There are plenty of indoor displays and farm equipment as well as outdoor areas where you can feed some ponies or even buy your own sugar maple tree!

La Porte County Historical Society Museum

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, JANUARY 04, 2018: People looking at exhibits in the new Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi

The La Porte County Historical Society Museum is a great place to spend some time. It’s located just north of downtown on Commercial Avenue and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

If you’re into Vintage and rare cars this is the place to be! With three levels of fun there are also activities for children, including an 1876 replica one-room schoolhouse which features hands-on educational items throughout.

Pine Lake

Stunning Sunset Sky Reflected on Relaxing Lake With Canadian Geese Flying Overhead

A laid-back lakeside escape close to home, Pine Lake is an ideal place for an afternoon hike or bike ride. You can go kayaking, water skiing or tubing, try your hand at fishing or just relax and unwind and enjoy the sunshine.

Blueberries of Indiana

Fresh Blueberries at the Farmers Market in Michigan

A wonderful way to spend an afternoon is at Blueberries of Indiana. With over 20 acres of fruit and berry plants – most grown organically – The entire family will engage and have fun. come prepared with homemade sandwiches so you can enjoy a nice picnic with your berry finds. Don’t forget to take pictures to remember this memorable day.

Luhr County Park

Lilly pads on the surface and trees on the shore of Linda Lake at the Muscatatuck National Wildlife Refuge, Indiana

Luhr County Park is one of Indiana’s most popular state parks. The park offers an array of activities for visitors and locals alike. It’s also home to some of Indiana’s best beaches and hiking trails. There is a catch and release pond where the little ones can enjoy their hand at fishing and a lovely nature center with a bird watching area.

The Laporte Indiana Courthouse

Goshen, Indiana, USA – August 21, 2021: The Elkhart County Courthouse

The Laporte Indiana Courthouse, built in the late 18th century in Richardsonian Romanesque style, is a must-see for those that appreciate architecture. The building includes a tower with a skylight and an impressive amount of stained glass. The walls were built with Lake Superior Red Sandstone which gives it a unique color.

Rumely Allis-Chalmers Heritage Center

This is a pretty cool center dedicated to educating the public on the agricultural and industrial heritage of Indiana. They have many displays and exhibits of tractors and other machinery that were donated or on loan so you can get a better understanding of the equipment used in the olden days and that are currently used today.

They are open every Saturday of the month 9Am – 1PM, put the date on your calendar so you don’t miss it!

Color Creations Hair Studio

Color Creations Hair Studio is a very personable hair salon and is very educated on the most current fads. The friendly staff will greet you upon arrival and prepare you to be amazed. Want blue-tinted streaks? All they need is your input and they can turn it into art. Treat yourself and/or your family to a superb cut and style so you picture-ready for any adventure.

Ogle’s

Ogle’s is a sweet little spot in downtown La Porte, Indiana. Grab a beer and enjoy the nightlife Indiana style. They offer karaoke nights, Live bands and ample seating to enjoy a nice dinner. This is the perfect way to talk to the locals and get to know about the history of Indiana from the locals themselves.

La Porte Civic Auditorium

La Porte Civic Auditorium is a one-of-a-kind event space that hosts events year-round. From tribute concerts to Sports games to Toddler yoga this space provides something to interest every age group. Be sure to check out their website for their next big thrill.

If you love live music and theater, be sure to check out La Porte Civic Auditorium. This state-of-the-art venue opened its doors on June 1, 1999 and it’s since become one of La Porte County’s most popular attractions.

With lakes surrounding it and an historic downtown that’s completely walkable, La Porte is Indiana’s best-kept secret. The City of La Porte is devoted to offering outdoor recreation to its citizens, as well as encouraging a flourishing downtown area. Check out La Porte, Indiana on your next adventure.