Things to do in valparaiso, IN (In the summer)

Are you looking for something fun to do in Valpo in the summer? Maybe you’re looking to move to the area and you’re wondering if there is more than corn in Valpo? We patiently wait all winter long for the snow to melt, and get outside. So, Valpo is a pretty awesome place to be in the summer!

Here are 5 things to do in Valpo in the summer:

#1: central park

There are loads of events happening in Central Park all summer long. In June, a crowd favorite is the Tuesday night movies in the park. The movies are usually very family friendly and the kids have a great time. In July, the summer concert series starts with live music on Thursday nights. Bring a picnic or pick up some carryout dinner and drinks from the restaurants nearby. Throughout the summer, the Farmer’s Market takes place on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 9-1. During this time, and most days in the summer, the splash pad is open for the kids to cool off and have some fun. For more events and details, visit the Valpo Parks department for the full list.

#2: festivals

Our biggest festival of the year happens the second Saturday in September, called Popcorn Fest. There is a 5k run in the morning, followed by a parade, and then food & shopping vendors, live music, and a kids corner all day. It’s a super fun event and the whole town gets really into it. Some of our other popular events are the Valparaiso Wine Festival in July and the Valparaiso Brew Fest in September. These are fun events to sample local drinks and enjoy live entertainment. Check out Valparaisoevents.com to see details on this year’s event dates, times, and ticket sales.

And last but not least, is the Porter County Fair that happens at the end of July. There is loads of awesome fried food, games and rides, 4H events and exhibitions, and some pretty big country names that come into town. This year Lady A performs, and in years past we’ve had Miranda Lambert, Luke Combs, and others. See? More than corn I tell ya!

#3: the 49er drive in

The 49er is so much fun, and one of those things you have to do at least once a summer. They get some pretty good moves, and the admission price includes both the early movie and the later one as well. They also have a concession stand and convenient restrooms.

#4: the library

One of my personal favorite spots in Valpo - I love our library! It’s a great spot on rainy days for all, and there is a summer reading program for both kids and adults alike. They have a ton of programming, including story time in the Rotary Library Garden across the street. Which is such a cool interactive park for the kiddos. There is even a magical fog walk where you can push a button and walk through the mist. Super cute and fun!

And finally…

#5: the beach

Valpo is about 10 miles south of the Indiana Dunes National Park. The beach is fun and there is pretty easy parking with convenient restrooms as well. Besides the beach, there are loads of other activities to do at the Dunes as well. Hiking, Biking, Camping, and fishing are some of the locals favorite activities to participate in.

There are so many fun things to do in Valpo in the summer!

Once school is over, it's back to school for the kiddos. In my next blog, I'm going to talk about our AWESOME Valpo Schools, so keep an eye out for that one next week.

If you have any questions about Valparaiso, Indiana, and want to make a move here, don't hesitate to reach out!