Visit Us

Address

6 on the Lake,
Michigan City, IN 46360 ›

Hours

Sunday – Thursday: 5 AM – 10 PM
Friday – Saturday: 5 AM – 12 AM

Park Map

View Park Map ›

About Washington Park & Beach

Washington Park is a majestic, 99 acre park located along the shores of Lake Michigan. Walk out to the pier or enjoy a picnic in one of our many shelters. Plan to have a wedding in the historic band stand, walk through our historic gardens or along the sand dunes, visit the Washington Park Zoo or spend the day at the beach. There’s something for everyone in Washington Park!

The Washington Park Boat Launch Will Be Closed On The Following Dates:

Friday, July 4th, 2025 for Fireworks

Thursday July 31st, 2025 – Sunday August 3rd, 2025 for Great Lakes Grand Prix Boat Race

Michigan City Beach Water Quality

Lake Michigan is tested for bacteria levels every day at Washington Park Beach, Stop 1 at California Avenue, and Stop 7 at Beachwalk. Results are available the following day by 11 am on our beach hotline (219) 873-1406 x: 2.

Acceptable levels of bacteria are 235 or below. An advisory will be issued for levels of bacteria between 236 and 999. The beach will be closed to swimming with counts of 1,000 or above.

The bacteria levels reported for Friday, June 20, 2025:

For Washington Park Beach is 21.3
For Stop 1 at California Avenue is 5.2
For Stop 7 at Beachwalk is 5.2

For additional information, please call the Park Office Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4:30 pm at (219) 873-1506.

Visitor Safety Information

Your safety is our top priority when visiting Washington Park and Beach. Whether you’re enjoying the beach, or using park facilities, please take a moment to review these important safety guidelines.

Speed limit is 5 mph

Please do not cross this speed limit around the park.

Glass is prohibited

Glass of any kind, containers or otherwise, is strictly prohibited.

No alcoholic beverages

No alcoholic beverages permitted within 50’ of roadways or parking lots.

Pets are not allowed

Pets are not allowed in the park. Service animals are welcome.

No overnight parking

No overnight parking or camping is allowed in the park.

No littering

There is a zero tolerance for littering in or around the park.

No ground fires

Charcoal or wood fired grills are permitted in lawn areas only.

Hunting is prohibited

Hunting is prohibited on all park property.

Quick Links & Information

Rip Current Informational Flyer

Beach Hazard Statement

Water Safety Video

Washington Park Zoo

Michigan City Golf Course

Programs

Washington Park & Beach Rules and Regulations

Parking Stickers & Daily Parking Fees

Not Just A Great Place To Visit, But A Great Place To Live

Michigan City offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and economic opportunity. Whether you’re a visitor exploring our stunning beaches or a resident enjoying our close-knit community, you’ll find endless reasons to call this place home.