Top 15 Local Favorites in Northern Indiana

History, festivals, and exquisite dining collide in Indiana’s Cool North. We asked locals to list their favorite attractions, events, and activities so you can get the most authentic experience possible on your visit to Northern Indiana. Whether you take in one or go for the full 15, you’ll learn just what makes our corner of the country so special.

University of Notre Dame – Sacred Spaces to Fuel Inspiration

Fun-Packed Weekend Escapes in Indiana’s Cool North 8

Find your inner peace in the sacred spaces of Notre Dame University, a place where beauty abounds and faith is treasured. Surrounded by acres of breathtaking views, gothic architecture, and intricate outdoor sculptures, Notre Dame is an exquisite escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Modeled after the French shrine where the Virgin Mary appeared to Saint Bernadette in 1858, the Grotto of our Lady of Lourdes is a special place to spend a few quiet moments. Hundreds of students have proposed marriage here; outdoor Masses are celebrated regularly; and the Rosary is prayed every day at 6:45 p.m., every day of the year, rain or shine. Next, look for the spires of the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, step inside, and feel a sense of calm surround you. Take in the stained-glass windows, first installed in 1873, and view cherished artifacts dating back centuries.

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