Attractions and Places To See around Long Beach - Top 4
Best attractions and places to see around Long Beach are characterized by their coastal features, including historic lighthouses and unique natural landscapes. This region offers opportunities to explore significant maritime history and natural sand dunes along the shore. Visitors can find beaches, viewpoints, and family-friendly sites for exploration.
Best attractions and places to see around Long Beach
- The most popular attractions is Michigan Light, a man-made monument that operates as Indiana's only active lighthouse. Built in 1904, it is…
Last updated: April 26, 2026
New Buffalo Lighthouse
Highlight • Monument
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Mount Baldy
Highlight • Natural Monument
North of the mount, there's a swimming beach which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
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Michigan Light
Highlight • Monument
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New Buffalo Public Beach & Lighthouse
Highlight • Beach
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Tips from the Community
The sunsets from this sandy beach, located next to the iconic lighthouse, are magical. It has a dune area where you can take a boardwalk, climb some steps and enjoy even better views.
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The first lightkeeper began work here in 1840. But, by 1859, the government shut the light which was eventually lost to erosion. The light you see today is a replica that has stood as the same spot by Buffalo Beach since the beginning of the 20th century.
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Mount Baldy is not technically a mountain, but a 126-feet (38.4 m) shifting sand dune which moves every year. North of the mount, there's a swimming beach which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
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Mount Baldy is not technically a mountain, but a 126-feet (38.4 m) shifting sand dune which moves every year. North of the mount, there's a swimming beach which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
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The first lightkeeper began work here in 1840. But, by 1859, the government shut the light which was eventually lost to erosion. The light you see today is a replica that has stood as the same spot by Buffalo Beach since the beginning of the 20th century.
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This lighthouse has become a symbol of Michigan City. Built in 1904, it's the only lighthouse that still operates in Indiana. It's located at the end of the pier – a great place to watch the sunset or fish.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the must-see natural attractions around Long Beach, Indiana?
A prominent natural attraction is Mount Baldy, a 126-feet high shifting sand dune that is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park. It offers a unique landscape and has a swimming beach nearby. The area is also known for its beautiful beaches and coastal features.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in Long Beach, Indiana?
Yes, the region is rich in maritime history. You can visit Michigan Light, Indiana's only active lighthouse, built in 1904. Another historical site is the New Buffalo Lighthouse, a replica standing at the original site where a light was established in 1840 by Buffalo Beach.
What activities are available for families with children around Long Beach?
Many attractions are family-friendly. Both Michigan Light and New Buffalo Lighthouse are great for all ages. Additionally, New Buffalo Public Beach & Lighthouse offers a sandy beach perfect for swimming and relaxing, with a boardwalk through the dunes for exploration.
Where can I find scenic views or viewpoints in the Long Beach area?
For panoramic views, head to Michigan Light, located at the end of a pier, which is also a great spot for watching the sunset. New Buffalo Public Beach & Lighthouse also offers excellent views, especially from its dune area accessible via a boardwalk and steps.
What outdoor activities, like cycling or running, can I do near these attractions?
The Long Beach area offers various outdoor routes. For cycling, you can explore routes like the 'Singing Sands Trail Loop' or the 'New Buffalo Lighthouse loop'. Runners might enjoy the 'Mount Baldy to Long Beach Trail' or sections of the 'Singing Sands Trail'. You can find more details on these activities in the Cycling around Long Beach and Running Trails around Long Beach guides.
Are there any beaches suitable for swimming near Long Beach, Indiana?
Yes, New Buffalo Public Beach & Lighthouse is a popular sandy beach and swim spot. Additionally, a swimming beach is located north of Mount Baldy, which is part of the Indiana Dunes National Park.
What makes Michigan Light a significant attraction?
Michigan Light is significant as it is the only lighthouse that still operates in Indiana. Built in 1904, it has become a symbol of Michigan City and is a popular spot for sunset viewing and fishing at the end of its pier.
Can I learn about the history of the lighthouses in the area?
Absolutely. The New Buffalo Lighthouse is a replica of the original light established in 1840. Its history includes the first lightkeeper beginning work in 1840, though the original structure was lost to erosion. The current replica stands as a testament to this maritime heritage.
What is unique about Mount Baldy?
Mount Baldy is a unique natural monument because it is a 126-feet high shifting sand dune. It moves every year and is a prominent feature within the Indiana Dunes National Park, offering a distinct natural landscape.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions around Long Beach?
Visitors particularly enjoy the coastal features, including the historic lighthouses and the unique natural landscapes like the shifting sand dunes. The opportunities for scenic views, especially sunsets from the piers, and family-friendly beach activities are also highly appreciated.
Are there any walking paths or boardwalks to explore the natural areas?
Yes, at New Buffalo Public Beach & Lighthouse, there is a dune area with a boardwalk that allows you to take a stroll and enjoy elevated views. The area around Mount Baldy also offers opportunities for exploring the unique sand dune landscape.
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