Endless Summer: 90 Years At Indiana Beach

Ideal Beach, Shafer Lake

“You know, I think growing up in an amusement park, now that I reflect back on it, was probably really very special.”

–Joy Bailey

It’s summer, so we’re headed for the beach. But not exactly. Rather, an amusement park located on the shores of a man-made lake in Northern Indiana that was run by one family for most of its history. Ideal Beach was built on the shores of Lake Shafer in Monticello, Indiana in 1926. What began as a glorified swimming club became a dance hall in the 30s when affordable entertainment was in short supply. The resort became a destination for big bands criss-crossing the country, and audiences in turn. Marquee performers from Louis Armstrong to the Beach Boys and Sonny and Cher played at the park, which, over time, added rollercoasters and a new name: Indiana Beach. Even if you’ve never been there, if you’ve lived in the Hoosier State you’ve probably heard its famous slogan on TV or the radio—the park’s mascot crowing “There’s more than corn in Indiana!”

Like many generations of kids from Indiana and Illinois, WFIU’s Hannah Boomershine went to the park frequently in her childhood. But her relationship to the park was different. This summer Boomershine returned to the 90-year-old park to give us a special tour.

Stories On This Episode

You Can’t Go Home Again: Reflections At The Beach

By Hannah Boomershine - Aug 19, 2016

The last time I visited Indiana Beach I was only a child. Even then, though, I knew my connection to the amusement park wasn’t typical.