Entire home

Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home

your current months are December, 2024 and January, 2025.
December 2024
January 2025

Photo gallery for Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home

Beach nearby
Exterior
TV, table football, books
4 bedrooms, free WiFi, bed sheets
View from property

Reviews

9.8 out of 10

Exceptional

Entire home

4 bedrooms3 bathroomsSleeps 12307 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Pet-friendly
  • Barbecue grill
  • Washer
  • Outdoor space
  • Kitchen

Explore the area

Map
Gary, IN
  • Marquette Park
    6 min walk
  • East Shoreline
    7 min walk
  • Indiana Dunes National Park
    13 min walk
  • Chicago, IL (MDW-Midway Intl.)
    62 min drive

Room options

Similar properties

About the area

Gary

A family-friendly stay in Gary awaits you at this cottage. Within steps you'll find Lake Michigan and Indiana Dunes National Park within a 15-minute stroll. .Accommodation features a washing machine, free WiFi and 2.5 bathrooms. In-room dining is easy with a kitchen that comes equipped with a fridge, a microwave and a stovetop. A patio, in-room jetted baths and a sofa bed are also available.

What's nearby

  • Marquette Park - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Indiana Dunes National Park - 13 min walk - 1.1 km
  • West Beach - 6 min drive - 3.5 km
  • Ogden Dunes Beach - 10 min drive - 6.9 km
  • Portage Lakefront Beach - 11 min drive - 7.5 km

Getting around

  • Portage - Ogden Dunes Train to Chicago - 6 min drive
  • Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) - 62 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Flying J Travel Center - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪John T McCutcheon Travel Plaza - ‬15 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪Denny's - ‬9 min drive
  • ‪McDonald's - ‬7 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home

Miller Beach is Lake Michigan’s hip but family friendly beach getaway, and the Blue Butterfly is its best bang for the buck at under 1.5 blocks from the beach. As one of only four beach communities nestled between the sandy shores of Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore Park, Miller Beach is located only 45 minutes from downtown Chicago and has something for everyone. Miller Beach’s blue waters, towering dunes and diverse ecosystems are ideal for beach goers, families, hikers, nature enthusiasts and those looking for a couple’s getaway or even a brewery tour.

About the Blue Butterfly
The Blue Butterfly is a spacious home with three floors of living that features four bedrooms, 2.5 baths, granite countertops, a dishwasher, a washer & dryer, a walk out deck, Internet & cable, four flat screen televisions, a Weber charcoal grill, a high chair, playpen, foosball and other entertainment including bean bag toss (corn hole) and board games.

Floor one features bedroom one, The Master, with a new California King memory foam mattress, a 40-inch television and a walk-in closet. The first floor also includes a fully equipped kitchen, a full bathroom, a living room, a dining room and a family room with a sliding door that leads onto the deck.

Floor two features two large bedrooms and a full bathroom with a jetted tub and skylight. Bedroom two, The Captain’s Quarters, includes two new queen size beds, a full size futon, a 40 inch flat screen television with Blu-Ray and a walk in closet. Bedroom three, The Pilot’s Cabin, includes a new queen size memory foam bed and is ornately decorated in honor of aviation pioneer, Octave Chanute, who designed and tested gliders in the Indiana Dunes. His ideas and advice helped lead the Wright brothers in creating the first successful airplane.

The basement features bedroom four, a half bath, laundry and the family/game room. Bedroom four, The Beach Hut, includes a new queen size bed, and the game room includes foosball and other games.

The backyard and driveway are enfenced and feature a swing set, patio set, adirondack chairs, Weber charcoal smoker and Weber charcoal grill. The Blue Butterfly accommodates parking for six.

We are happy to discuss ideas for planning your trip. We provide all guests with a Guide to Planning Your Trip to Miller Beach. Below are some upcoming events in addition to the premium outlet malls, casinos, world-class breweries, fall colors and much more listed in our guide.

Property manager

Elizabeth

Languages

English, Spanish

Property amenities

Beach

  • Beach nearby

Ski

  • Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

  • Available in the cottage: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Car recommended
  • Onsite parking options include a garage

Kitchen

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Cookware, dishware, and utensils
  • Dishwasher
  • Hob
  • Microwave
  • Oven
  • Refrigerator
  • Toaster

Dining

  • Dining table

Bedrooms

  • 4 bedrooms
  • Bedsheets provided
  • Sofa bed

Bathroom

  • 2.5 bathrooms
  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Jetted bathtub
  • Towels provided

Living spaces

  • Dining table
  • Living room
  • Separate dining area

Entertainment

  • Books
  • Games
  • TV with cable/satellite channels

Outdoor areas

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Patio

Laundry

  • Laundromat nearby
  • Washing machine

Comfort

  • Air conditioning
  • Heating

Pets

  • Pet friendly
  • Welcoming dogs only
  • Up to 10 kg per pet

Suitability/Accessibility

  • Smoke-free property

Location highlights

  • Near a health/beauty spa
  • Near a hospital
  • Near a zoo
  • Near an outlet shopping centre
  • Near the marina
  • On a lake

Things to do

  • Arcade/game room
  • Foosball table
  • Water park
  • Basketball nearby
  • Birdwatching nearby
  • Casino nearby
  • Cycling nearby
  • Fishing nearby
  • Golfing nearby
  • Hiking/biking trails nearby
  • Jet skiing nearby
  • Kayaking nearby
  • Motor boating nearby
  • Sailing nearby
  • Scuba diving nearby
  • Sledding nearby
  • Snorkelling nearby
  • Snowmobiling nearby
  • Swimming nearby
  • Water skiing nearby
  • Water tubing nearby
  • Wildlife walks nearby
  • Windsurfing nearby
  • Winery tours nearby

Safety features

  • Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
  • Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
  • First aid kit
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Deadbolt lock

General

  • Garden
  • Unit size: 3,300 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM
Contactless check-in and check-out are available
Minimum check-in age - 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

  • Pets are welcome
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 22 lb per pet)
  • Restrictions apply
  • For more information, you can reach out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Note from host: Highchair and portable play pen.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business. On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited. For guests' safety, the property includes a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit and a deadlock in all accommodation.

We should mention

  • To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly using the information on your booking confirmation.

Property is also known as

Spacious Fun Family Friendly Beach Home House Gary
Spacious Fun Family Friendly Beach Home Gary
Spacious Fun Family Friendly Beach Home
cious Fun Family Friendly Gar
Spacious, Fun Family Friendly
Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home Gary
Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home Cottage
Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home Cottage Gary

Frequently asked questions

Are there any beaches close to Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home?

Yep, Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home is a short 7-minute walk from East Shoreline. Fun beach activities include jet skiing, snorkelling and scuba diving. You can also find motor boats.

Does Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home have a pool?

No, this cottage doesn't have a pool.

Does Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home have a waterslide?

No, but it has a waterpark and lazy river.

Is Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home family-friendly?

You bet! With amenities such as a playground, an arcade and highchairs, it's no surprise that Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home is a winner with our family travellers.

Is there a private hot tub at Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home?

No, but there is Jetted Baths.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home?

No, Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home does not offer an airport shuttle service.

What time are check-in & check-out at Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is 10:00 AM.

Spacious, Fun and Family Friendly Beach Home Reviews

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 81 out of 93 reviews" "
Rating 8 - Good. 11 out of 93 reviews" "
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 93 reviews" "
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 93 reviews" "
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 93 reviews" "

9.6/10

Cleanliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Colleen R.

Liked: Cleanliness
Pleasant Surprise
I grew up nearby and knew some of Gary is rundown, but this was not the case here in Miller Beach. The neighborhood is older and the property next door is abandoned, but THIS property is well-maintained, the host was very responsive, and it's 2 blocks from the water. We had a great time at the beach, exploring the dunes, and even just hanging out watching some TV.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ryan A.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great house
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

henna a.

Liked: Cleanliness
Blue Butterfly is just lovely!
Our family stayed at this extremely lovely, well appointed home a quick 5 min walk from the gorgeous sand beaches of Miller Beach. The house was totally well set up, with thoughtful touches to increase our comfort and convenience. Every possible detail was taken care of for our weeklong stay.. Highly recommend this property! We will definitely be staying here again!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2024

8/10 Good

Mary B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fit our needs
The house was big enough for 4 families; close to the beach and the surrounding cities we visited.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patricia S., San Benito, TX

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun and sun
So enjoyed our stay here. Lovely home with all the amenities needed by our family. Plenty of space to spread out, quiet neighborhood, close proximity to the beach. Kitchen is well equipped. Would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Dorian K.

Liked: Cleanliness
Spacious, Family Friendly Stay
This place was excellent for our large family of 7. More than enough space for everyone. The kids enjoyed all of the available toys. We also appreciated the extra well stocked kitchen supplies. The area was quiet and peaceful but still close enough to the main highway so that we could get out and about during our stay. Would be great to come back during the summer to enjoy the beach as well. Highly recommended.
Stayed 31 nights in Oct 2023

8/10 Good

Christy F.

Liked: Cleanliness
Definitely Loved the Walk 2 the Beach
The Walk 2 the Beach was Close. Loved 2 B able 2 walk 2 the Beach at least 2 times a day! The Property was Well Equipped, with plenty of space 4 our Family of 5 Adults, & 1 Child & our Fur Babies❣️🐶🐱 Our granddaughter had PLENTY 2 do with the Swing Set; Toys, & Riding Toy options❣️
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Connie D.

Liked: Cleanliness
Annual Miller Beach Weekend
This was our second year staying at this property and really enjoyed our time. House was clean and well stocked. We loved the spaciousness - plenty of room to spread out. Beach is very accessible and house is well stocked with beach towels, chairs, toys, etc. We enjoyed the addition of the new fire pit. Overall, a great stay offered by a great host. We’ll be back.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

April M., Cincinnati

Liked: Cleanliness
Amazing house and location!
This was one of our favorite houses we've stayed at. It was perfect for our family. It was very spacious inside and very clean. The beds were very comfortable! All of the things that we needed to have a fun day at the beach were included. And it was a very easy and quick walk to the beach. It felt like we had the beach to ourselves. The kids loved the swings and foosball table. We also really liked the food at Depot Dog and Schoops.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Linh L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Fun place for the whole family
We had a great time at the Blue Butterfly. It was a short walk to the beach and a short drive to Mt. Baldy Dunes. Great location. Lots to do. Plenty of room for 3 families. Thank you for a fun stay.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023

10/10 Excellent

Arthur M.

Liked: Cleanliness
second stay here
very nice place, clean, pet friendly and well stocked with kitchen stuff. About a block and 1/2 to the beach and easy drive to the national parks and hiking trails.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2022

8/10 Good

Theresa T.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect for our needs
Three college roommates and our families with young kids stayed here and it was perfect for our needs. From the beach toys, towels, chairs, etc to the baby toys and games it was a perfect getaway. Close to lots of beaches and the National/State Dunes Parks.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

8/10 Good

Karen H.

Liked: Cleanliness
nice home, poor communication
Home was spacious, clean, well-stocked. Beds were comfortable. Easy walk to the beach. Owner was not responsive to texts and questions, which was disappointing.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jolanta B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Blue Butterfly
Has exactly what you need and more which made it so easy for kids! Beautiful beach nearby. We had so much fun and felt right at home. Thank you so much!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Sara W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place to stay!
We really enjoyed our week at the Blue Butterfly in Miller Beach. The property was great for our big family of all ages! Another plus was the easy walk to the beach.
Stayed 6 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Julia L.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great house with space for a large family!
The house is in a great location close to Lake Michigan. It had everything we needed and the owner was very easy to communicate with. We had a great family vacation.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2022

10/10 Excellent

Michelle P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Beautiful Blue Butterfly
We really had an amazing time with our family here. The pictures don’t do it justice. Great fenced in yard, plenty of space for a large card game at the dining room table and a great back porch for breakfast and dinner gatherings. Super close to the beach, and a short drive to the national and state parks as well as plenty of close dining options. The house was clean, well stocked and in a great location. Easy check in and check out. I would highly recommend this for your next trip :)
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022

10/10 Excellent

Leslie W.

Liked: Cleanliness
Loved it.
Nice place
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly M.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great for a girls weekend away
We had 9 women in this house for a weekend. It was very clean, super cute, very spacious. We never felt cramped even with that many of us. I would highly recommend or revisit!
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021

10/10 Excellent

JM C.

Liked: Cleanliness
Terrific
So perfect for a small family reunion. All the appliances were quality. The beds were comfortable. Plenty of hot water. Well stocked kitchen and the property manager was always quick to respond to my questions. Thanks for a great stay.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021

10/10 Excellent

Amanda S.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great group gathering
We were looking for a central location to bring friends and family from different areas. The location was excellent, the host provided everything necessary (and more), the property was clean and well provisioned. Everyone had a blast! We especially appreciated the extra air conditioner units upstairs. It was very hot week and we were all very comfortable.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Edward P.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great home and location
The location to in relation to the beach was great. Property was fantastic. Amenities exceeded expectations. Pleased as punch with the whole experience
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Nicolai N.

Liked: Cleanliness
Perfect house for family beach vacation
We loved staying here! The house has everything you could possibly want/need for a beach stay. Elizabeth was super responsive and helpful whenever we had any questions. Everything in the house is labeled, even down to the instructions on how to operate the showers (trying to figure out someone else’s shower can sometimes feel like you need a engineering degree). It’s really nice to have such a thoughtful host who clearly wants their guests to have a great experience. The beach is only a few minutes away. We loved taking our Newfie down there to play and meet other dogs. We highly recommend this property for any family that was to enjoy a relaxing beach vacation.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

Griffin B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Great place for a getaway
Came here with my wife and some friends and it was absolutely wonderful. Very clean the host was kind and responsive and the beach was very close. It truly felt like a home away from home couldn’t recommend it enough!
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2021

10/10 Excellent

James B.

Liked: Cleanliness
Blue Butterfly is a real gem
This clean, well-maintained, well-equipped home has a pleasant surprise behind every closet (and garage) door. Set in the nice little hamlet of Miller Beach, it's a short, easy walk to the beach. There was plenty of room for our 3 adults and 5 children, plus our German Shepherd. There was a more than adequate supply of dishes and cooking implements, and plenty of linens, soap, and shampoo in case you forgot your own. There as even a container of Swiss Miss hot chocolate in the cupboards. The garage had 3(!) barbecue grills, beach chairs, and some toddler-sized toys. The yard is nicely fenced in the back, which allowed us to not worry about the dog on the leash when we were out with her in the yard, and even had an above ground fire-pit. Everything was in working order, including air conditioning which was definitely needed for a a few of the very warms days during our stay. There were plenty of TVs, though we didn't watch them much during our 8 day stay. The owner, Elizabeth responded promptly to my questions and was quite pleasant to work with. Overall, we thoroughly enjoyed our stay and recommend this place to everyone.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2021