Explore Deep River Waterpark and other fun things to do in Merrillville

A stay at the Country Inn & Suites in Merrillville, IN offers you easy access to plenty of fun things to do, from gentle hikes through the Gabis Arboretum to a sweet tour of the Albanese Candy Factory. Families can cool off at Deep River Waterpark or overcome obstacle courses together at the outdoor Deep River Aerial Park. Need to get some shopping done? Nearby Southlake Mall offers over 140 stores, plus on-site restaurants where you can order a meal to take back to your comfortable room or suite. If you’re an art lover, don’t miss a visit to the Brauer Museum of Art, home to 19th- and 20th-century masterpieces. You can also make the hour-long drive to downtown Chicago for an exciting day trip or travel just 30 minutes to explore Lake Michigan’s beaches at Indiana Dunes National Park.

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Albanese Candy Factory and Outlet Store

2.72 mi / 4.38 km from the hotel
This US-based confectionery focuses on flavor and texture but “never takes itself too seriously.” To see how the sweets are made, take a behind-the-scenes tour. Then head to the on-site store to stock up on chocolate-covered Michigan cherries.

Brauer Museum of Art

14.62 mi / 23.53 km from the hotel
Filled with the creations of 19th- and 20th-century artists like Ed Paschke, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Ansel Adams, this museum at Valparaiso University is great for family or solo outings.

Deep River Waterpark

4.88 mi / 7.85 km from the hotel
Chill in the laid-back Bayou River Ride, zip down one of the tube slides, or engage in water wars during the summer at Deep River. In the winter, the park converts to an ice-skating rink.

Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest

9.07 mi / 14.6 km from the hotel
Featuring stunning display gardens, the largest collection of oak trees in Indiana, and the spectacular Railway Garden, this 360-acre nature preserve is a must-see. You can also hike a four-mile trail, bird-watch, and picnic during your visit.

Indiana Ballet Theatre

0.71 mi / 1.15 km from the hotel
If you appreciate the classics, don't miss a show by Indiana Ballet Theatre, a well-established dance company that’s dedicated to full-length historical productions.

Indiana Dunes National Park

25.17 mi / 40.51 km from the hotel
Created in 1926 to preserve the unique dunes ecosystem along Lake Michigan, this beautiful park has since expanded to include 15,000 acres of dunes, wetlands, prairies, and forests. Among other activities, visitors can swim, boat, hike, and bird-watch.

Southlake Mall

0.55 mi / 0.88 km from the hotel
Find great deals at stores like Macy’s, JCPenney, and H&M. You can have dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings or another great restaurant before seeing the latest blockbuster at the AMC theater.

Turkey Creek Golf Course

2.81 mi / 4.52 km from the hotel
Throw your clubs in the trunk and head over to Turkey Creek, where you can play an 18-hole game on a classic course with hilly, tree-lined fairways.

Valparaiso University

14.49 mi / 23.32 km from the hotel
Valparaiso is a liberal arts college with Lutheran roots dating back to 1859. This beautiful, tree-laden campus is home to the renowned Brauer Museum of Art.

IWU’s Merrillville Education and Conference Center

0.17 mi / 0.27 km from the hotel
This extension of Indiana Wesleyan University offers 27,000 square feet of classroom and event facilities. In addition to IWU classes, the center plays host to events of all sorts throughout the year.

Lake County Courthouse

4.08 mi / 6.57 km from the hotel
Visit this beautiful old courthouse to enjoy the elaborate architecture and browse the on-site museum, which traces Lake County’s history. Afterward, stroll the surrounding district, which includes boutiques, restaurants, and more historical buildings.

Deep River Aerial Park

4.7 mi / 7.57 km from the hotel
Bring the whole family for a day of fun in an outdoor obstacle course. Overcome elements like ladders, bridges, and tightropes together and enjoy zip-line rides and great views. You can choose courses from three difficulty levels.