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Just 25 miles from the heart of downtown Chicago, the city of Gary is the ninth largest city in Indiana. A steel town in every sense, Gary was founded by the U.S. Steel Corporation in 1906 and even named for the Founding Chairman of the Corporation, Elbert Henry Gary.
Gary in Indiana sits on the southern banks of Lake Michigan. It is home to Indiana University Northwest and, near Hammond, the home of Purdue University Northwest. As a result, you can expect a youthful vibrant energy in this community that is reflected in its many excellent restaurants, pubs, and other fun venues in the downtown area. A visit to Gary is a great way to get a taste of big city Chicago, while still enjoying a slightly slower pace of life.
The Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore gives you 15,000 acres and 15 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline to explore. Over 50 miles of walking trails provide breathtaking views of dunes, prairies, rivers, forests, and wetlands. Marquette Park, in the Miller Beach area, is a wonderful way to get away from the city.
If you are looking for a bit more excitement, head to the Majestic Star Casino in Buffington Harbor. The Majestic Star is also a historic site as it is the only African-American owned casino in the entire United States. Comprised of two interconnected ships, the casino boasts a variety of amusements, ranging from an amazing assortment of machines to live Blackjack.
For a touch of art and history, the Star Plaza Theater in Merrillville offers a wonderful selection of events throughout the year. Be sure and check out their website when you are planning your visit so you do not miss a thing. Travelers with children will find lots of fun to be had at the Deep River Waterpark in nearby Crowne Point. From fun and friendly water slides to ice skating in the wintertime, this water park is sure to show you a great time.
There are no 5 star hotels in Gary, Indiana. However, you still have plenty of choice among the eight 4 star hotels in the area, which offer the discerning traveler a comfortable and quality place to stay. From beautifully decorated and spacious rooms to helpful amenities, such as room service and on-site dining, a 4 star hotel is a great way to go for visitors who are looking for something special.
A 3 star hotel is another, more affordable option for travelers looking for a pleasant stay. Many 3 star hotels also have on-site restaurants, room service, and other great amenities, such as swimming pools, fitness centers, free WiFi, and more. In total, you can find 37 3 star hotels in Gary and the surrounding area.
The closest commercial airport to Gary is Chicago Midway International Airport. It is located 38 miles from downtown Gary and is a full-service airport, which offers a number of flights in and out of the Chicago area throughout the day. For travelers who prefer to stay near the airport, there are many hotels to choose from.