Modern lakeshore recreation area featuring sandy beaches, scenic walking paths, birdwatching opportunities, and expansive views of Lake Michigan and the Portage waterfront.
Open year-round as part of Indiana Dunes National Park
Chesterton (10 mi)
Merrillville (16 mi)
How to Get There
From Portage (3 mi): Take U.S. Highway 12 toward the Lake Michigan shoreline, follow signs for Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, and continue to the visitor parking area at the end of Riverwalk Road.
Overview
Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk is one of the most accessible and visually striking destinations within Indiana Dunes National Park. Located where Burns Waterway meets Lake Michigan, the site combines a wide sandy beach with an elevated promenade that offers sweeping views of the lake, the Chicago skyline on clear days, and the industrial harbor landscape that helped shape northwest Indiana. The paved riverwalk provides an easy stroll for visitors of all ages, while interpretive signs reveal the region's unique meeting point of natural ecosystems and modern commerce. The area's blend of shoreline scenery and public recreation has made it one of the park's most popular gathering places.
Beyond its scenic appeal, the site serves as an important gateway to understanding the environmental and cultural history of the southern Great Lakes. Birdwatchers frequently visit during seasonal migrations when numerous species pass through the lakeshore corridor, and photographers are drawn by dramatic sunrises and changing weather conditions over the water. The nearby beaches, picnic facilities, fishing opportunities, and connections to other park attractions make the area a versatile destination for both short visits and full-day explorations. Whether visitors arrive for relaxation, wildlife viewing, or a lakeside walk, Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk provides a memorable introduction to the diverse landscapes of Indiana Dunes National Park.
This article uses material from the Wikipedia articles and official National Park Service pages for the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, which are released under the
