Former Michigan City Moose Lodge Set for Redevelopment
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A former Moose Lodge in downtown Michigan City could soon have new life. Our partners at The Times of Northwest Indiana report the building is slated for redevelopment as a new South Shore Line train station is built across the street as part of the rail line’s double-tracking project.
In 2020, the Loyal Order of the Moose sold the building, which had served as a Moose Lodge for more than 80 years, according to the publication. The new owner, Todd Davis, plans to invest up to $40,000 to renovate the facility to serve as a public entertainment space.
“We are looking to land a distillery or brewery for the whole space,” Michael Conner, a real estate agent representing Davis, told The Times. “We have lots of interest in event space using the bowling alley for private parties. The concept is to use the very functional retro feel of the building allowing someone to get in with minimal investment.”
The 19,000-square-foot building was constructed in 1938 and Conner calls the facility one of the best-kept secrets in Michigan City.
“I love the retro feel of the space, and that the Moose kept everything as it was 50 years ago. It has that perfect vintage vibe, which seems to be what certain types of venues demand now,” he said. “The fact that this was a private club is what kept this space as an undiscovered gem.”
Conner said the goal is to preserve the history of the building while updating the exterior.