Things To Do
in Merrillville
Merrillville is a town located in Lake County, Indiana, in the United States. It is situated just southeast of Gary and has a population of around 35,000 residents. The town is known for its shopping and dining options, with the large Southlake Mall attracting visitors from nearby areas.
Merrillville also offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as parks, golf courses, and community events.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing hike at the nearby Glenwood Dunes Nature Preserve. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you.
Have a picnic lunch at the park while soaking in the sun. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll to observe the local wildlife.
Head back to Merrillville for dinner at a local farm-to-table restaurant. Enjoy delicious seasonal dishes made from fresh ingredients.
Begin your morning at Southlake Mall with a cup of coffee and a light breakfast. Explore a wide range of shops for a fun shopping experience.
Grab lunch at one of the mall's eateries before continuing your shopping adventure. Don’t forget to check out local boutiques for unique finds.
Wrap up your day at a cozy nearby café with dessert. Reflect on your shopping day while enjoying a local treat.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Convenient access to major highways, making commute easier.
- Variety of shopping and dining options available.
- Strong sense of community with local events and activities.
- Good schools and educational facilities.
- Proximity to natural attractions, such as parks and lakes.
- Higher traffic congestion, especially during peak hours.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options for young adults.
- Potential for higher property taxes compared to surrounding areas.
- Weather conditions can be harsh during winter months.
- Economic reliance on nearby larger cities for job opportunities.
Best Activities in Merrillville
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy water slides, wave pool, and other water attractions at this outdoor waterpark.
Play a round of golf at this scenic and well-maintained golf course.
Explore the walking trails, fishing pier, and picnic areas at this peaceful park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Merrillville with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Merrillville
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers scenic views and great photo opportunities with its open green spaces and beautiful lake
Features picturesque landscapes, wooded trails, and a historic gristmill for photography enthusiasts
Provides stunning views of the lush green golf course and surrounding natural beauty
Known for its tranquil lake and picturesque settings, perfect for capturing beautiful moments
Food in Merrillville
Merrillville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A must-try dish with Polish origins, pierogies are dumplings filled with various ingredients such as potato, cheese, and meat. Head to The Old Town Banquet Center for authentic pierogies.
Must-Try!
Indulge in the iconic deep-dish pizza, characterized by its thick, crunchy crust and generous layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings at Aurelio's Pizza.
Savor the classic Italian beef sandwich, featuring thinly sliced roast beef on an Italian roll. One of the best spots to try this is at Freddy's Steak House.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Merrillville better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore locally grown produce, artisanal products, and food vendors offering delectable treats at Merrillville Farmers' Market, open on weekends.
Visit the Star Plaza Theatre for an array of food trucks offering diverse street food, from gourmet burgers to fusion tacos, providing an eclectic dining experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Merrillville, it is important to respect personal space and maintain a comfortable distance when interacting with others.
Being punctual is a sign of respect in Merrillville. It is important to be on time for social and business appointments.
Merrillville is a diverse community, and it is important to show respect for people of different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and lifestyles.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Merrillville with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Merrillville
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Merrillville, United States is customary in the service industry, typically ranging from 15% to 20% of the bill. This includes restaurants, bars, hotels, and other service-oriented businesses.
Payment practices in Merrillville, United States are similar to those found throughout the country. Cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payments are widely accepted. It is common for businesses to accept major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Merrillville.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Merrillville as the weather starts to warm up, and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. It's also a good time for outdoor activities with comfortable temperatures.
Summer is peak tourist season in Merrillville, with warm temperatures perfect for enjoying the outdoor attractions like parks, lakes, and festivals. However, it can get quite crowded during this time.
Fall brings beautiful foliage to Merrillville, making it a picturesque time to visit. The weather is still pleasant, and you can enjoy events like fall festivals and harvest celebrations.
Winter in Merrillville can be cold and snowy, but it offers a different kind of charm with holiday festivities and winter sports. It's a quieter time for tourists, and you can find good deals on accommodations.
Merrillville at Night
Hiking in Merrillville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic park offering trails for hiking, with beautiful landscapes including prairies and wetlands. Ideal for walking and enjoying nature.
Located about an hour from Merrillville, this park features rugged trails, beautiful canyons, and a picturesque river, providing a variety of hiking options.
This state park offers a range of hiking trails alongside the Kankakee River. Visitors can enjoy views of the river, woodlands, and diverse wildlife.
A great local option with trails winding through woods and around the lake, perfect for a peaceful hike.
A bit further out but worth the trip, featuring stunning dunes, forests, and beaches along Lake Michigan. There are numerous trails of varying difficulty levels.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Merrillville through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Merrillville by plane.
Located approximately 40 miles northeast of Merrillville, it is one of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Located about 35 miles northeast of Merrillville, this airport primarily handles domestic flights and is a hub for low-cost carriers.
Situated approximately 70 miles east of Merrillville, it serves the South Bend region and offers a limited number of flights to major hubs.
Located just around 15 miles from Merrillville, this airport mainly serves private and charter flights and has limited commercial services.
About 175 miles south of Merrillville, it is the main airport serving Indianapolis and offers extensive domestic and international flight options.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Merrillville, consisting primarily of individuals of European descent.
A significant demographic group representing individuals of African descent.
This group includes individuals of various backgrounds with roots in Spanish-speaking countries.
A smaller demographic group primarily consisting of individuals with origins in Asian countries.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.
A very small percentage of the population, including individuals with indigenous ancestry.
Includes individuals who do not fit into the primary racial or ethnic categories.
The Soul of Merrillville
Discover the essence of Merrillville through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular team sport played in schools and recreational leagues, with active participation in both youth and adult divisions.
Widely followed and played, especially at the high school level, with local teams competing in regional leagues.
Gaining popularity among youth leagues in Merrillville, with many children participating in organized soccer clubs.
A classic American pastime, with various local youth leagues and adult softball teams participating in the sport.
Commonly played in schools and recreational centers, with both beach and indoor formats being popular among residents.
Offering facilities and programs for children and adults, this sport is popular for both competition and fitness.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Merrillville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Several eateries in Merrillville provide diverse vegetarian and vegan options, ensuring that those with plant-based dietary preferences have ample choices. Notable mentions include Flat Rock Tap and Grill, which offers a separate vegetarian menu.
Individuals seeking gluten-free dining can find suitable dishes at many establishments like Asada Mexican Grill and Ocean Prime, where the chefs are adept at crafting gluten-free meals without compromising on flavor and quality.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Merrillville with these cultural adventures.
