Munster

About Munster

Munster is a town of 24,000 near the south shore of Lake Michigan, just 12 miles from Gary, Indiana, and 26 miles south of Chicago’s Loop. Located in Lake County, Munster’s western border rests along the Illinois-Indiana State Line. Munster strikes a great balance between the coziness of a small town and the convenience of big city amenities. This family-friendly community has top-notch schools, great parks, and is a short ride from Indiana Dunes National Park.

Munster History

Munster’s story is closely tied to the railroad, which brought settlers starting in the 1850s. They prospered selling crops and dairy products to Chicago markets. A German immigrant named Jacob Munster opened a general store in 1870 that stocked groceries and dry goods of all kinds, and it was the region’s first post office. In 1907, the community formed a municipality and named it Munster in his honor.

Living and Working in Munster

Munster’s housing costs are on par with the national average, and a great percentage of residents own their own homes. People routinely report they love living in their town. With its A-plus school system, welcoming community spirit, and plentiful parks, it’s a family-friendly environment with recreational and cultural amenities to appeal to all ages. Munster has a thriving business community, ranging from local enterprises to national distribution centers, due to its strategic location near highways, rail, and international airports. Residents also commute for careers in Chicago and Gary.

Things to do in Munster

Of the town’s many parks, its largest and newest is Centennial Park, an eco-friendly destination with a golf course, entertainment stage, pavilions, formal gardens, dog park, and fishing lake. Centennial Park is connected to Pennsy-Greenway, a 12-mile rail trail great for biking. Community Park in the center of Munster hosts local and regional gatherings such as an annual car show. On the culture front, the Center for Visual and Performing Arts presents plays by Theatre at the Center, exhibitions by South Shore Arts, and concerts by Northwest Indiana Symphony, among a full lineup of special presentations. Stroll the outdoor sculptures paying tribute to 20th century wars at Community Veterans Memorial. Enjoy peaceful Bieker Woods Nature Preserve or spend the day at nearby Indiana Dunes National Park.

Munster Schools

School Town of Munster public schools are a source of great pride thanks to stellar attendance, parent participation, and student academic performance. Munster High School, which has been given four stars by the Indiana Department of Education, offers more than 130 courses, including some eligible for college credit. After graduation, Munster students can commute to Purdue University Northwest, Calumet College, or Indiana University Northwest.

Munster Transportation

Munster is adjacent to Interstate 80/94 and lies just west of U.S. Highway 41, with Interstate 274 to the west and Interstate 90 a bit north. Calumet Avenue runs north-west through town. Gary/Chicago International Airport is the closest airport, though residents often fly through Chicago’s Midway or O’Hare international airports.

With its recreational, cultural, business, and educational opportunities, Munster is a wonderful place to call home for families, young adults, empty nesters, and retirees.