This Unassuming Coastal Town Just 40 Minutes From Chicago Hides One of America’s Best National Parks—And It’s Not Lake Geneva

A small town getaway isn’t just limited to summer—in fact, we believe winter is one of the best times to visit a new place. The magic of the holiday season, combined with fewer crowds, is quite hard to beat. Fortunately, there is a stunning destination just an hour from Chicago : the awe-inspiring Indiana Dunes National Park. During the winter, this national park glimmers with snow-covered dunes , magnificent beaches, and miles of scenic hiking trails (bundle up, of course) waiting to be explored during the frosty month of December. Just a short drive from this natural phenomenon is the charming town of Chesterton, Indiana, which serves as the perfect retreat after you visit the dunes. Chesterton is the perfect winter retreat from Chicago ----------------------------------------------------- With a population of just 15,000, Chesterton embodies the essence of a small historical town, with a friendly, hometown atmosphere and art studios, markets, and a museum. For winter activities, visitors can learn how to make their own clay pot or paint a ceramic piece at Duneland Pottery , which offers ceramics workshops and classes by appointment. If you’re traveling there this weekend, be sure to check out the Mistletoe Market . Happening December 6th, the holiday market brings a bit of Europe with mulled wine, live music, and one-of-a-kind holiday gifts. To delve into the town’s history, be sure to visit the Westchester Township History Museum , featuring a permanent exhibit that covers local prehistoric history through the present day, along with rotating exhibits throughout the year. Source: https://secretchicago.com/chesterton-indiana-ndiana-dunes-national-park-winter-escape/