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Sari's Picks for Chesterton

There are countless options for shopping, eating, and entertainment around the Duneland area. These are just a few of my favorites around Chesterton — the spots I'd recommend to any Indiana Dunes visitor as too good to miss, and to any Duneland resident who hasn't had the chance to experience them yet. (And in case you're wondering, this is not a sponsored list. Just a few of my honest-to-goodness favorites after years of living, working, eating, and shopping in Chesterton!)

The Flower Cart

My husband sends me flowers from The Flower Cart about every six weeks (so regularly, in fact, it makes me wonder whether they have a reminder service), and the arrangements are always gorgeous. They've got a nice selection of ready bouquets, plus lots of individual cut flowers so you can choose your own. They'll even spruce up the individual flowers you choose by adding greenery, etc. — when they're done working their magic, it's a beautiful professional arrangement. Their new store has a wide selection of gifts, plus house plants, cards, and even homemade fudge.
See map, directions, and more for The Flower Cart >

Yesterday's Treasures Antique Mall

I could spend hours at Yesterday's Treasures. (Actually, I have spent hours there!) From serious collectibles to tchotchkes, old magazines to furniture... this place has it all. 30,000 square feet of really neat stuff! Among my favorite finds at this antique mall have been a beautiful silver art deco makeup compact, a few books, and fun dishes. I have a weakness for chairs, which I've indulged at Yesterday's Treasures on more than one occasion — from orange upholstered to blue vinyl, and 1940s to 1970s. (As a result, I don't have much floor space... but I do have plenty of seating, and pretty chairs to admire!)
See map, directions, and more for Yesterday's Treasures Antique Mall >

Red Cup Cafe & Deli

Red Cup offers amazing homemade baked goods including scones, muffins, brownies, and coffee cake. They also make delicious fresh sandwiches, with options ranging from the traditional (ham and swiss) to the inventive (portobello and goat cheese); plus quiche, soup, salad, and of course... espresso! All that yummy food, plus great atmosphere (including local artwork for sale), genuinely friendly service, and outdoor patio seating, makes Red Cup a local favorite.
See map, directions, and more for Red Cup Cafe & Deli >

4th Street Theatre

Who knew such a small town could have so much big talent? Chesterton's 4th Street Theatre has entertained audiences with a range of plays and musicals over the years. My personal favorite was Fiddler on the Roof. Expectations are set pretty high for such a favorite, and they nailed it! Part of this theatre's charm is the cozy setup... seating is limited, so you should call for reservations.
See map, directions, and more for 4th Street Theatre >

Sanders Farm

A very quaint local farm where the farmer steps out the door to greet you. The small store offers farm fresh milk, brown eggs, local honey, and more. From mid-September through October they also offer an array of pumpkins and gourds, plus straw. The farm is less than 10 minutes from downtown Chesterton. If you want to support local farmers (not to mention enjoy freshness you can't buy at any store), this is the real deal!
See map, directions, and more for Sanders Farm >

Hopkins Ace Hardware

Stuff around my house breaks. All the time. Enough said!
But really, it's great to drive five minutes away and find a local hardware store where there are plenty of experts around to answer questions. This family-owned store has been in Chesterton for years, and gives a lot back to Chesterton community. Hopkins Ace has the usual tools and hardware, plus garden supplies, lawn furniture, grills and home canning supplies.
See map, directions, and more for Hopkins Ace >

Chesterton Feed & Garden

Another local spot packed with experts; these folks have answered countless garden questions for me. In addition to the great array of perennials and annuals, they have a huge selection of bird feeders (and seed), beautiful pots, lawn care, landscape materials, tools, gifts, pet food and supplies, and even water garden and pond supplies.
See map, directions, and more for Chesterton Feed & Garden >

Lucrezia

This place doesn't need me to promote it — they've been featured in local newspapers, magazines, and tv (Chicago's 190 North), and have won countless awards. It's not just hype; every detail here is perfect — consistently delicious food, out-of-this-world desserts, the *perfect* martini, great staff, and a unique atmosphere perfect for business lunches, romantic dinners, and everything in between.
See map, directions, and more for Lucrezia >

Chesterton's European Market

Spearheaded by Chamber Director Bonnie Trout in 2003, the European Market just gets better and better every year. Piles of flowers and farm fresh produce, fabulous baked goods, unique clothing and jewelry, and way too much other great stuff to list! The European Market also provides live music and a wonderful opportunity to relax in the park or wander the shops, bakeries, and galleries of Chesterton's historic downtown area. I can't imagine a Saturday without the market!
See map, directions, and more for Chesterton's European Market >

Sarah Highlen, Director of Internet Development at The Grossbauer Group, and huge fan of Chesterton and the Duneland area

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How about: Top 10 Things To Do on a Rainy Weekend… Beach Bums' Best-Kept Secrets… Four Stops You Can Make Without the Kids Screaming… Five Fantastic Field Trips… or The Perfect Duneland Date? You can stick with the basics, too, like Laura's List, Nick's Faves, or Joe's B2B List.

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