Merrillville(United States) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Merrillville, top choices for families include Comfort Inn & Suites Merrillville and Holiday Inn Express Merrillville. Both offer spacious family rooms, free breakfast, indoor pools, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Located just 15 minutes from Indiana Dunes National Park, these hotels provide easy access to nature trails, beach activities, and outdoor adventures. The Merrillville Outlets shopping center is also nearby, making them ideal for a balanced mix of relaxation and entertainment. Perfect for parents seeking comfort and convenience.

The best area for hotel stays in Merrillville is the Dunes Area, near Indiana Dunes National Park and Merrillville Outlets. This district offers scenic views, quiet streets, and proximity to both natural attractions and retail destinations.

Hotels like Hampton Inn Merrillville and Holiday Inn Express are located here, providing modern amenities, secure parking, and easy access to dining and outdoor recreation. It’s an ideal base for travelers who want to enjoy the outdoors during the day and explore town life in the evening.

Must-try cultural experiences in Merrillville include the annual Dunes Heritage Festival, celebrating the region’s ecological and indigenous heritage with craft markets, Potawatomi music performances, and guided nature walks.

Visitors should also stop by the Indiana Dunes Interpretive Center, where interactive exhibits reveal the geological history of the sand dunes and the traditions of the original Potawatomi inhabitants. These immersive experiences deepen appreciation for the area’s unique identity and natural legacy.

Yes, nearly all hotels in Merrillville provide free parking. Properties such as Holiday Inn Express Merrillville and Comfort Inn & Suites Merrillville feature ample, well-lit parking lots with 24-hour security.

Given Merrillville’s location near major highways and Chicago, many guests arrive by car. Free parking supports convenient travel, especially for those visiting Indiana Dunes National Park or planning day trips to downtown Chicago—just a 75-kilometer drive away.

For couples seeking romance, Hampton Inn Merrillville’s River View Suite is ideal. Facing the Pine Creek, it features a private balcony, soft lighting, and serene views perfect for quiet evenings.

The hotel also offers candlelit dinner packages and can arrange sunset beach walks at Indiana Dunes. Enjoy a rooftop breakfast overlooking misty dunes at sunrise—this intimate, nature-inspired experience makes it a favorite among honeymooners and couples seeking tranquility.

Merrillville is about 75 km (47 miles) from Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW), a 1 hour 10-minute drive. The closer Gary/Chicago International Airport (GYY) is just 35 km (22 miles) away, taking around 40 minutes.

Major hotels like Comfort Inn & Suites and Holiday Inn Express offer airport shuttle services upon request. Car rental options from Hertz and Enterprise are readily available, ensuring seamless travel for visitors arriving from across the Midwest.

Yes, several Merrillville hotels offer excellent child-friendly amenities. Holiday Inn Express Merrillville features a kids' playroom, free toiletries for children, and baby cribs.

Comfort Inn & Suites includes an indoor pool with a splash zone and hosts weekly family events like storytime and craft workshops. Some hotels partner with the Indiana Dunes Nature Center to offer “Junior Ecologist” programs, turning learning into fun adventure—perfect for curious young minds.

Yes, many hotels in Merrillville welcome pets. Hampton Inn Merrillville allows small pets for a $25 daily fee, with designated pet areas and water bowls provided.

Comfort Inn & Suites also accepts pets with advance notice. Guests must keep pets leashed and clean up after them. On-site pet supplies like leashes and waste bags are available for rent, making it easy and stress-free to travel with your furry companion.

Must-try dishes in Merrillville include Lakefront Fish Fry—freshly caught fish fried to perfection with fries and pickles—and the Dunes-Style Brisket Sandwich, served with local barbecue sauce.

Don’t miss the Hoosier Pie at Merrillville Diner, a rich, creamy dessert made with regional cream and maple syrup. Pair it with a cup of local craft coffee at Pine Street Café for a true taste of Hoosier hospitality.

Yes, all major hotels in Merrillville offer free high-speed Wi-Fi. Facilities like Holiday Inn Express Merrillville and Comfort Inn & Suites provide full-room coverage, supporting multiple devices for work, streaming, or online classes.

The connection is stable and reliable, with smart TVs and USB charging ports included in rooms. This ensures a seamless digital experience—ideal for remote workers, students, and tech-savvy travelers.