Category Archives: Nature

paved hiking biking trails at friendship international gardens michigan city indiana e1593184768332

New Paved Trails at Friendship Gardens

Over 2,900 feet of trails at Friendship Botanic Gardens were paved during the week of June 15th, 2020, which was made possible by a grant provided by the Healthcare Foundation of La Porte.    The goal was to provide more access to people that require mobility assistance, such as wheelchairs and walkers. The natural green…

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Ogden Gardens is A Close Encounter with Nature

     Ogden Gardens is a local treasure that is often overlooked. It is a quick and close encounter with Nature because it is located in the heart of the Valparaiso business district with a very close easy access parking area. For local residents it’s an easy bike ride or walk. Odgen Gardens is on…

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Moraine Nature Preserve Valparaiso Indiana Tourism Hiking

Hike The Secret Moraine Nature Preserve

by Andie Renner-Miller      We did this hike back when it was snow covered as it was listed as a good hike to do in the snow. This preserve was a good reminder that it doesn’t need to be warm out to take a good hike. We found only one area that may be difficult…

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friendship botanic gardens to open may 1st

Friendship Botanic Gardens to Open May 1st

     Friendship Botanic Gardens will open to the public beginning this Friday, May 1st.       The Gardens will be open Tuesday through Sunday from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Daily admission (Tuesday-Sunday) is $9; seniors, $7; however, on Thursdays, admission to the Gardens is $5 for everyone. Children 12 and under are free everyday; active…

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friendship botanic gardens michigan city indiana

Friendship Botanic Gardens Remains Open To Members Only

     During these uncertain times and caution of COVID-19, community members are still able to take advantage of the membership benefits at Friendship Botanic Gardens while still following the social distancing guidelines.       Being in nature is good for the mind, body and spirit. While there may be uncertainty in the world right…

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east chicago green house

The Greenhouse of East Chicago

Visit East Chicago’s Greenhouse and step into one of the city’s hidden treasures.      Come and experience the tranquility and oxygen rich air that only the greenhouse can offer. Here you will find rooms filled with various tropical plants and fruit trees.  The greenhouse is open year round and admission is free.     …

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Indiana Dunes 160

Things To Do in the Indiana Dunes

Take the “3 Dune Challenge” Go Camping      The National Park Service is proposing a reservation system for 11 picnic shelters and 34 campsites at Indiana Dunes National Park. A reservation system will allow visitors to plan their camping trips and picnics at the national park up to six months in advance.      Currently, all…

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great backyard bird count annual indiana dunes

Great Backyard Bird Count

     The Great Backyard Bird Count is Feb 14th – 17th, 2020! This 23rd annual event is somewhat of a misnomer, since you can count birds wherever you spot them, not only in your backyard! This week look for several shared posts featuring the Great Backyard Bird Count, Feb. 14-17 no matter where you…

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Dunes Learning Center Chesterton Indiana Dunes Park

Indiana Dunes

     Dunes Learning Center at Camp Good Fellow in Indiana Dunes National Park has education programs to inspire lasting curiosity and stewardship with nature.      Immersed in nature, Dunes Learning Center connects learners of all ages with the natural world through lessons in conservation and sustainability led by professional educators in an outdoor…

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Festival of Owls humane indiana valparaiso 4 H building

Festival of the Owls Annual Event

     Do you love owls as much as we do? Join Humane Indiana Wildlife for a family-friendly day of wide-eyed, owl-themed fun at their Annual Festival of Owls event at the Porter County  4-H Building. Meet-and-greet our owl ambassadors, and be amazed as you learn about these majestic creatures during the many presentations from…

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