Michigan City Getaway 2020

Friday the 13th brought travel to Michigan City, Indiana for another weekend getaway with a friend. This trip was timed to take advantage of good travel conditions before winter weather hits. My destination this time was the Bridge Inn, a small hotel on the banks of Trail Creek. The inn takes its name from the fact that it sits right next to a vintage railroad swing bridge, which is still in service.

Several times a day, Amtrak passenger trains cross Trail Creek on this bridge and pass through Michigan City on their way to Chicago. The trains we saw originated in Holland, Michigan and Detroit. After the trains pass, the bridge swings back to permit boat traffic on the channel.

The Bridge Inn

The Bridge Inn is a quaint suite hotel. It’s in a very scenic location on the water near downtown Michigan City. It even offers a few slips for visiting boaters to dock their vessels. The Bridges Waterside Grille, a seasonal restaurant, adjoins the hotel. The photos below show the hotel and old railroad bridge.

Michigan City Lighthouses

The Michigan City harbor features two lighthouses.

• The Old Michigan City Lighthouse, which is inland on the north bank of Trail Creek. It was built in 1858 and now operates as a seasonal museum.
• The Michigan City East Pierhead Lighthouse stands at the end of a pier extending out into Lake Michigan. It features an elevated catwalk and is now the active light marking the entrance to the Michigan City harbor.