I was gonna mention the dunes- its like our little slice of California
If you drive to Valpo (I take it you go to valpo hobby and pets) you might as well come en extra 15-20miles West on RTE30 to Merrillville/Schererville/Highland/Hammond- there are 5 nice stores in a 10 mile area. Send me a PM if you are ever coming out this way. I'll give you some cool spots to check out.