Private Event
Rentals
Barker House Rentals
444 Barker Road, Michigan City, IN 46360
Looking for a unique space for your next meeting or small gathering? The first floor of the historic Barker House, nestled in Barker Woods Nature Preserve, is now available to rent. Enjoy cozy indoor spaces, a peaceful woodland trail, and a new pollinator garden. All while supporting the protection of the Indiana Dunes!
Gather for Good!
Nestled within the heart of Barker Woods Nature Preserve, the main floor of historic Barker House is available to rent. The Barker House offers a unique experience where every event supports the protection of the Indiana Dunes. Proceeds from every rental go directly toward protecting the Indiana Dunes National Park and restoring natural areas like Barker Woods. When you book with us, you’re not just renting a space—you’re investing in a healthier, more resilient region.
History
Built in 1904, the Barker House was originally home to Norton and Marjory Barker and their two children, Wallace and Margery. After the couple divorced, Marjory remained in the house with the children and became a passionate advocate for conservation in Michigan City. She helped protect land that would become part of the Indiana Dunes National Park, served on the first advisory board of Save the Dunes Council, and had 30 acres of the surrounding woods designated as Classified Forest by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources.
Following Marjory’s death in 1974, the Barker House passed to her daughter Margery, while the surrounding 30-acre Barker Woods was donated to The Nature Conservancy. Margery continued her mother’s legacy by serving on Save the Dunes’ advisory board and was recognized by The Nature Conservancy for her dedication to preserving the land. When she passed away in 1980, she left the Barker House to The Nature Conservancy with the wish that it support conservation.
Over the years, the Barker House served as office space for The Nature Conservancy, the Audubon Society, Shirley Heinze Land Trust, and Save the Dunes. In 1997, Save the Dunes purchased the property and later secured its designation as a National Historic Landmark. Today, the Barker House remains the headquarters of Save the Dunes and stands as a lasting symbol of the Barker family’s conservation legacy.
Inside the Space
Your rental includes access to the entire first floor of Barker house, featuring:
- A cozy meeting area with tables, chairs, and media hook-ups
- An inviting lounge space with comfortable seating
- A fully-equipped kitchen
- Access to the surrounding grounds; including trails and a pollinator garden
The Barker house is perfect for:
- Business Meetings
- Corporate Retreats
- Private Events
- Showers
- Reunions
- Holiday Gatherings
- Celebrations of Life
Please note: The Barker House was built in 1904 and retains its original character and charm, but is not ADA accessible and requires the use of stairs.
Price Guide
Event Type | Under 50 Guests | 50-150 Guests |
|---|---|---|
Monday-Thursday | $50 per hour | $100 per hour |
Friday-Sunday | $100 per hour | $200 per hour |
Monthly Meetings | $50 flat fee |
