Indiana: Neighbor to The South Side of Chicago
Soap Box Rants
By Pamela Bratcher-McMillan
President, Chair & CEO, of PETAL et al.
Do you ever get tired of frequenting the same restaurants and establishments on the South Side of Chicago or in the South Suburbs? Perhaps you also dread that long distance of heading to Downtown Chicago or to the North side of Chicago and thinking about the lack of decent parking as well. If so, check out your Indiana neighbors. While some may think there is not much to do outside of Chicago…think again. From Hammond to Merrillville, there is plenty to do – starting from Hammond’s Horseshoe Casino to Merrillville’s legendary Star Plaza Theatre. You get the feeling of being out of town while only a short distance away from home.
And for those who say, ‘I don’t gamble,’ guess what? Some of the best tasting food you can eat can be found at Horseshoe Casino. After you’ve filled up on dinner, check out one of the performances taking place at Horseshoe Casino’s Concert Hall, The Venue. Yes. They have a concert hall! You can check out bands and comedians. If you’re on a budget or just want to dance and enjoy some top 40’s music, check out Push at Horseshoe Casino. (Stylish/Formal attire only). There is plenty to do without ever touching a slot machine (that’s if you don’t want to). They can also accommodate meetings and special events in an energetic atmosphere.
Looking for something without all the bells and whistles, but have a good time all the same? Check out the Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville, Indiana. There are even events there that the kids can check out. If you like the outdoors, don’t pass up the opportunity to check out Centennial Park in Munster, Indiana. They have an outdoor stage, golf course, restaurant, gardens and picnic area. You can take a walk around the lake for some peace and tranquility or dine in the View Restaurant or on the View’s outdoor deck with a view of the lake.
Tired after all the walking and want a treat instead of a meal? Check out Red Mango in Highland, Indiana. It’s about ten minutes away by car. They have some great tasting soft serve frozen yogurt and a variety of flavors and toppings you can add.
Do you just want to get away from it all and chill with your mobile device or laptop and have access to free Wi-Fi? Check out Panera Bread in Munster, Schererville or Merrillville, Indiana. The sandwiches and pastries are awesome as well! If you’re not hungry but interested in the free Wi-Fi and browsing some books, visit Books A Million in Merrillville, Indiana.
Remember Miller Beach, Indiana Sand Dunes and the beautiful shores on Indiana? They still exist. Lakes in natural surroundings cannot be matched by lakes with skyscrapers towering over them. IMAX theatre in Schererville or Portage, Indiana is a nice way to watch a movie with outstanding sound and picture. Check out your next movie on the huge screen. Some even include 3D movies. As of this writing, parking is free for every venue listed above!
Don’t take our neighbors for granted. There is plenty to do and if you don’t want to take the highway you can also drive local. I’ve heard that Blue Chip Casino in Michigan City, Indiana is wonderful, too. If you’ve ever been there, drop us a line and let us know what you think.
Pamela Bratcher-McMillan is a technology Expert and President, Chair & CEO, of PETAL et al.
Soap Box Rants is a weekly column to CopyLine Magazine.
