Valparaiso is a lively, walkable college town with a charming downtown, regular cultural and music events from Valparaiso University, a growing restaurant and coffee scene, parks, trails and a friendly small‑city feel—comfortable and interesting for multi‑week assignments.
Nearby Chicago (about 50 miles) offers world‑class dining, museums and airports, and South Bend/Notre Dame (about 40 miles) adds sports and cultural options, giving plenty of weekend escapes when you want more variety.