Indiana Dunes National Park

Natural mounds of sand 200+ feet high

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Where the Star-Spangled Banner was born: a compact fort with sweeping harbor views and living history. It’s an easy win—flat paths, open lawns, and a visitor film that sets the scene in under 15 minutes.

Start at the visitor center for your map, then follow the ramp to the east wall for the best harbor vantage. Time your visit for a flag raising or lowering—the ranger talk turns the place into a story you’ll remember.

For a slower visit, circle the star-shaped ramparts clockwise and watch ships move in and out of the Patapsco.

What’s new? Updated today

Sunset flag lowering 6:30pm (Fri–Sun)
Temporary exhibit: War of 1812
Harbor shuttle every 20 minutes

What are the hours? — 9:00–17:00 (daily)

Hours may vary for holidays and special events; check the official site before you go.

How much does it cost? — $15 adults · kids free

Admission covers the fort and visitor center exhibits; special tours may be extra.

Where do I park? — On-site lot + overflow

Lots can fill on weekends by mid-day; arrive early or consider rideshare.

Is it accessible? — Flat paths; accessible restrooms

Most ramparts have graded access; some historic areas may have uneven surfaces.

Arrive 30 min before sunset for the lowering ceremony and best light.
Wind picks up on the ramparts—bring a light jacket even in summer.
Stroller route: enter via visitor center, ramp to east wall loop.

Sand dunes can’t compete in size with the mountains on this list, but seeing natural mounds of sand standing nearly 200 feet high is quite the spectacle. Indiana Dunes National Park has 3 such dunes (Mount Tom, Mount Holden, Mount Jackson), but the majority of visitors come to swim and enjoy the beach.

For 15 miles along the south shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park’s sandy beaches connect with bogs, marshes, swamps, rivers, and forests to provide an array of ecosystems and activities, among thousands of plant and animal species.

Swimming, hiking, camping, fishing, bird watching, and even cross country skiing are some of the reasons people travel from near and far to visit Indiana Dunes National Park, which officially became a US National Park in 2019. The park is 25 miles long altogether including the fully encompassed Indiana Dunes State Park.

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