2024 The Times Best of the Region: Entertainment
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Best Bowling Center
Inman's Bowling & Recreation Center
3201 Evans Ave.
Valparaiso
219-462-1300
“We pride ourselves on doing the right thing and taking care of each and every bowler,” says Shaun Ciesielski, vice president of operations and director of Everything Bowling at Inman’s.
After 30 years new lanes were installed and a new coaching training tool, Kegel Specto, has been added. It gets bowlers’ individual stats to track accuracy, ball motion, revolution rate, speed and more. “There are also fun games you can play to improve your bowling skills and see where you rank with bowlers across the world,” says Ciesielski.
There's open bowling daily, and the King of the Hill Tournament Summer Series enters its seventeenth year May 24 through Aug. 16.
League play starts at the end of May/early June and specials include Beat the Clock and Cosmic Bowling.
Inman’s also has a full-service pro shop.
“We offer many specials and fun activities for all ages and keep things in a family friendly environment,” says Ciesielski.
SECOND PLACE
Set 'Em Up Lanes and Lounge
135 N. Broad St.
Griffith
219-924-3181
THIRD PLACE
Plaza Lanes
8101 Kennedy Ave.
Highland
219-923-3800
Best Casino
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana
“People keep coming back to our casino because of the exciting vibe here,” says Maria Avila, social media and communications manager. Part of that vibe is free entertainment on two live stages every Friday and Saturday.
There’s gaming action 24/7, including more than 1,700 slot machines, including traditional reels, high-tech video reels, video poker and bar top games.
“We’re constantly adding new slot machines. We try to be the first to debut the newest ones so that our guests can enjoy the latest, most exciting slots,” says Avila.
There are 80 table games, including blackjack, roulette and craps.
Players can choose playing for a few dollars or playing with high-rollers. There’s a choice of VIP treatment in the high-limit room as well as popular Asian games in the Asian High-Limit room.
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Casino Dining and Best Place for Lunch.
SECOND PLACE
Horseshoe Hammond Casino
777 Casino Center Drive
Hammond
866-711-7463
THIRD PLACE
Four Winds Casino
Multiple locations
Best Casino Dining
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana also was voted Best Casino and Best Place for Lunch.
SECOND PLACE
Four Winds Casino
Multiple locations
THIRD PLACE
Horseshoe Hammond Casino
777 Casino Center Drive
Hammond
866-711-7463
Best Downtown
Crown Point
Crown Point is home to more than 34,000 residents, but the downtown attracts thousands of visitors with its historic charm and welcoming small business community.
“We are very pleased and excited to be named, once again, the Best Downtown in the Region,” Crown Point Mayor Pete Land says. “Our downtown is such an iconic place; it’s historic.”
He notes that everything in downtown Crown Point revolves around the historic Lake County Courthouse.
“It starts with the historic courthouse, and the shops that are in there and The Grand ballroom that was recently renovated. Just walking into the building, you’re walking into Crown Point’s history and the Region’s history.”
Add to that dining establishments and beloved antiques stores and boutiques, the square comes together with an inviting atmosphere that brings visitors season after season. “There is something for everybody on the square,” Land says, adding, “We really try to make it a year-round, destination site to visit.”
Recently, the city completed a variety of projects to add parking in and around downtown.
SECOND PLACE
Valparaiso
THIRD PLACE
Griffith
Best Family Entertainment
Zig-E's Funland
8176 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0596
There’s no shortage of activities at Zig-E's Funland.
The facility features go-karts, 18 holes of mini golf, batting cages, a two-building redemption arcade and outdoor tactical laser tag.
"We enjoy hearing about all the good times and memories people have had when they visited Zig-E's,” owner Andrew Dzieglowicz says. “The best part of my day is seeing all the smiling faces and knowing we have positively impacted our patrons.”
Zig-E’s offers a wide variety of food. Adult visitors can also have wine, signature co*cktails and beer at the Pit Stop Bar. Zig-E’s specialty beer, Funland Fuel, brewed in partnership with Off Square Brewing, also is available.
“Our customer service, community support and cleanliness are how we stand out in the family entertainment center arena,” says Josef Dzieglowicz. “We strive to give that personal touch to every customer interaction, creating memories that last a lifetime.”
In addition to being a great place to take your family. Zig-E’s can also accommodate birthday parties, group outings, corporate events and fundraisers.
“As a family-owned local business, we appreciate the continued overwhelming support we have received since we opened 16 years ago,” Martin and Rose Ann Dzieglowicz say.
Zig-E’s Funland also was voted Best Fun Center.
SECOND PLACE
Zao Island
1050 Horse Prairie Ave.
Valparaiso
219-462-1194
THIRD PLACE
Hometown Jams
Multiple Locations
Best Festival
Pierogi Fest
1417 119th St.
Whiting
219-659-0292
Pierogi Fest has grown substantially since its inception in 1993, but the theme of the three-day festival in Downtown Whiting has remained the same.
“We celebrate the Eastern European Heritage of our community, but it’s a homecoming for attendees regardless of your ethnicity,” says Tom Dabertin, Pierogi Fest chairman and co-founder. “While we take organizing the festival seriously, the festival itself is a funny twist on ethnic customs and small-town America, which Whiting-Robertsdale is a great example of.”
This year, the festival runs from July 26-28. As usual, the food is the main attraction.
“We feature more than 70 food vendors and more than 1,200 menu items,” Dabertin says.
Another popular attraction is the Polka Parade, which starts at 7 p.m. July 26.
“But there is so much more, including six entertainment stages featuring all types of music and entertainment from polka and Polish folk dance to rock 'n' roll and parody acts, as well as big name entertainment such as Sugar Ray on the Hard Rock Casino Main Stage on July 27,” Dabertin says. “And don’t forget our beer gardens, arts & crafts, our crazy contests like the pierogi toss and eating contest and much more.”
Dabertin credits the 650 volunteers as one of the keys to the festival’s success.
“Our volunteers live and work here, and to know that our neighbors and friends think so much of us to vote us this honor each year is quite rewarding and remarkable,” Dabertin says. “It also serves as a challenge for us to make each festival the best ever.”
SECOND PLACE
Rock 'N' Rail Music and Street Festival
100 N. Broad St.
Griffith
219-924-7500
THIRD PLACE
Lake County Fair
889 S. Court St.
Crown Point
219-663-3617
Best Fun Center
Zig-E's Funland
8176 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0596
Zig-E’s Funland also was voted Best Family Entertainment.
SECOND PLACE
Zao Island
1050 Horse Prairie Ave.
Valparaiso
219-462-1194
THIRD PLACE
Jak’s Warehouse
221 Indianapolis Blvd.
Schererville
219-322-5257
Best Golf Course
White Hawk Country Club
1001 White Hawk Drive
Crown Point
219-661-1300
When it comes to beautiful, challenging golf courses in the Region, White Hawk Country Club in Crown Point ticks all of the boxes for what golfers want.
That starts with design, and Director of Golf Duane Borcherding is proud of White Hawk's.
“White Hawk Country Club is made up of 36 uniquely designed holes and features some of the best golf holes in the Region. Multiple tee options allow golfers of all abilities to enjoy their day at the course. Weekly course rotation changes allow golfers to be challenged in a fun and exciting way each time out.”
White Hawk is also proud of the services it offers. “White Hawk Country Club attracts guests with the services offered, atmosphere and course conditions," saysgeneral manager Anthony Lopez. "The 36-hole semi-private facility spans more than 600 acres of property offering a private country club feel while remaining open to the public. Our philosophy and focus on customer service are what make a visit to White Hawk Country Club an outstanding experience.”
White Hawk’s golf course is part of the country club, but it is open to the public..
Natural scenery such as streams, wetlands, forests and prairies provide e a sense of tranquility. It is no wonder that White Hawk is the place for golf outings and special events.
SECOND PLACE
Sandy Pines Golf Club
10527 Bunker Drive
DeMotte
219-987-3611
THIRD PLACE
Lost Marsh Golf Course
1001 129th St.
Hammond
219-932-4046
Best Live Entertainment Venue
The Hobart Art Theater
230 Main St.
Hobart
219-942-1670
From movie theater to live entertainment, the Hobart Art Theater has been bringing in exciting acts for fans.
Since 1940, the historic building in downtown Hobart has offered a variety of shows in an intimate setting. It fills its seats with local and national bands and performers.
“We were shocked,” Shane Evans says of winning Best Live Entertainment Venue for the third year in a row. “We have Hard Rock that recently opened,” Evans explains. “So many people have this image that you have to go to Chicago to a giant venue in order to see a great show.”
People keep coming back because they want to have a great experience that doesn’t have to happen at a stadium or arena.
The popularity of Hobart Art Theater has grown with interest in downtown Hobart and its dining options, andEvans is excited to work with the new mayor and partners in Hobart.
SECOND PLACE
Hard Rock Casino Northern Indiana
5400 W. 29th Ave.
Gary
219-228-2383
casino.hardrock.com/northern-indiana
THIRD PLACE
The Venue at Horseshoe
777 Casino Center Drive
Hammond
219-473-7000
Best Place for a Child’s Birthday
Morkes Chocolates of Cedar Lake
13301 Lincoln Plaza Way
Cedar Lake
219-390-7161
When you’re a kid, there’s no better way to celebrate your birthday than making your own chocolates, eating pizza and having ice cream cake for dessert.
At Morkes Chocolates of Cedar Lake, you can do all of that. The business, owned by Kris and Mark VanderPloeg, stands out for a variety of reasons.
“We are a family-owned shop with our signature chocolates being handmade with love and family recipes going back to 1920,” Mark VanderPloeg says. “Our birthday parties are a new experience for children to celebrate their special day with chocolate. They are truly kids in a candy store.”
The VanderPloegs are thankful for the strong support Morkes receives, and they have a deep admiration for the community. Mark VanderPloeg said they not only own a business in the Cedar Lake community, but also are raising a family there.
“We can't tell you enough how much we appreciate the support we give and receive from our locally owned small businesses,” Mark VanderPloeg says. “We would not be here without the support of the community, our wonderful employees, family and friends.”
SECOND PLACE
Tyler's Tender Railroad Restaurant
350 E. U.S. Hwy. 30
Schererville
219-322-5590
THIRD PLACE
Zig-E's Funland
8176 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-558-0596
Best Public Garden/Outdoor Exhibition
The Shrine of Christ's Passion
10630 Wicker Ave.
St. John
219-365-6010
Year after year, people visit The Shrine of Christ’s Passion looking for peace and hope.
“Even though it’s a brutal historical event, it’s still peaceful walking the trail,” said Paul Anderson, the Shrine’s general manager. “And it gives them hope, hope for the world.”
Anderson is grateful for each visitor.
“It is amazing the strong support we receive from the community,” he said.
The Shrine has expanded multiple times over the years, with The Family Plaza the most recent addition.
The Family Plaza features the “St. Joseph with Jesus in the Workshop,” “Footprints in the Sand,” “Let the Children Come to Me” and “Joy of the Family” sculptures.
Anderson said a full-life sculpture of St. Michael the Archangel is also in the works.
“We’re hoping by fall that that will be installed."
The Shrine of Christ’s Passion also was voted Best Place to Volunteer and Best Gift Boutique.
SECOND PLACE
Gabis Arboretum at Purdue Northwest
450 W. 100 N.
Valparaiso
219-462-0025
THIRD PLACE
Whiting Lakefront Park/Whihala Beach
1561 Park Road
Whiting
219-659-0860
Best Sports Team
South Shore Roller Derby
“Roller derby is more than just a sport. It's a celebration of community spirit and togetherness,” says Ellen Kapitan, the board president for South Shore Roller Derby. “With fanfare and excitement in the air, people of all ages come together to enjoy family-friendly events that cater to everyone.”
The team was founded in 2013 under the name South Shore Roller Girls. In 2021, the nonprofit changed the name with inclusivity a factor in the decision.
“We believe that the new name better reflects the diverse group of individuals who make up our team,” Kapitan says. “As an organization dedicated to promoting athleticism, teamwork and empowerment, we want to ensure that everyone feels welcome and represented.”
As a nonprofit, the South Shore Roller Derby donates a portion of bout proceeds to local charities. TheHabitat for Humanity of Northwest Indiana, St. Jude House, The Caring Place, Gatehouse Recovery Home and Food Not Bombs in Northwest Indiana are among those that have received financial or volunteer support.
Kapitan says roller derby events are possible because of community partners, and nostalgia plays a role in attracting attendees for events. Whatever the reason, the South Shore Roller Derby is thankful for all of their fans.
“It means we can continue to show the Region what female athletes are capable of achieving and inspire the next generation of girls to pursue their athletic dreams without hesitation,” Kapitan says. “With strong support from the community, we can break barriers, shatter stereotypes and pave the way for equal opportunities in sports.”
SECOND PLACE
Gary SouthShore RailCats
One Stadium Plaza
Gary
219-882-2255
THIRD PLACE
Bishop Noll Hockey
1519 Hoffman St.
Hammond
219-932-9058
Best Sports Venue
Sparta Dome
1355 E. North St.
Crown Point
219-224-3663
From athletics to parties and events, the Sparta Dome in Crown Point has something for everyone.
The 120,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility offers a climate-controlled environment as well as multiple turf layouts and consistent field conditions, which makes it ideal for a variety of activities.
Baseball, softball, soccer, football, lacrosse and rugby are among the sports played there. Sparta Dome also offers camps, training, portable batting cages and other athletic programs.
The Sparta Dome also is a great place to celebrate a special occasion or other types of events, with a variety of popular games and party packages available. Sparta Dome can accommodate birthdays, team-building, reunions and many other events.
SECOND PLACE
U.S. Steel Yard
One Stadium Plaza
Gary
219-882-2255
THIRD PLACE
Crown Point Sportsplex
1313 E. North St.
Crown Point
219-661-2271
Best Wedding Venue
The Lighthouse
7501 Constitution Ave.
Cedar Lake
219-374-9283
The Lighthouse also was voted Best Fine Dining.
SECOND PLACE
County Line Orchard
200 S. County Line Road
Hobart
219-947-4477
THIRD PLACE
Villa Cesare Banquets & Events
900 Eagle Ridge Drive
Schererville
219-322-3011
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2024 The Times Best of the Region
Welcome to The Times Media Company’s Best of the Region for 2024.
