Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Brooklyn, Ohio to Oak Forest, Illinois
The drive from Brooklyn, Ohio to Oak Forest, Illinois covers a distance of about 400 miles and can be completed in about 6 hours on a good day. The journey takes you through the heart of the Midwest, showcasing the beautiful landscapes, small towns, and farmlands that make up this often overlooked region of the United States. Along the way, there are numerous places that you can stop to take in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the Midwest. Here are the top five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Brooklyn, Ohio, to Oak Forest, Illinois.
1. The Thurman Cafe, Columbus, OH
One of the most iconic spots in Columbus, Ohio, the Thurman Cafe, is famous for its massive Thurman Burger, which comes stacked with ham, bacon, sautéed mushrooms, onions, lettuce, tomato, pickles, hot peppers, mayonnaise, and choice of cheese. Established in 1942, the Thurman Cafe has a cozy atmosphere with a classic American diner feel. It's a great spot to stop and grab a bite to eat on your way out of Columbus.
Favorite food to eat here: Thurman Burger with a side of fries.
2. Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
A little over halfway on the drive, just off the 80/90 toll road, you'll find the Indiana Dunes National Park. The park boasts more than 15 miles of pristine coastline along Lake Michigan, with towering sand dunes, wooded hiking trails, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline in the distance. Pack a picnic and make a day of it by hiking, bird watching, and taking a dip in the lake.
Favorite food to eat here: Pack a picnic with local cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruit from the nearby Dunes Family Market.
3. Kalamazoo Public Library, Kalamazoo, MI
The Kalamazoo Public Library may sound like an odd place to stop on a road trip, but this historic library is a treasure trove of literature, art, and architecture. The building, constructed in 1959, features a unique blend of mid-century modern and organic architecture. Spend a few hours exploring the vast collection of books, magazines, and newspapers, and be sure to snap a few photos of the stunning blue and green glass mosaic mural on the exterior of the building.
Favorite food to eat here: Enjoy a cup of locally roasted coffee and a fresh-baked pastry from the library cafe.
4. The National Museum of the Great Lakes, Toledo, OH
The National Museum of the Great Lakes is a must-visit stop along your drive. The museum features interactive exhibits, artifacts, and displays that showcase the history and importance of the Great Lakes. From shipwrecks to shipping, the museum offers a fascinating look at the people, industries, and events that have shaped the region over the last 300 years.
Favorite food to eat here: Grab a bowl of fresh whitefish chowder from nearby Tony Packo's Cafe.
5. Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago, IL
Located on the west side of Chicago, the Garfield Park Conservatory is a 12-acre conservatory that boasts several themed plant habitats, including the Palm House, the Desert House, and the Fern Room. The conservatory contains more than 100,000 plants from around the world and features seasonal flower shows throughout the year, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers and botany enthusiasts.
Favorite food to eat here: Head to nearby the Lula Cafe for a brunch of locally sourced ingredients, including a delicious breakfast sandwich or fresh avocado toast.
The Midwest is often overlooked as a road trip destination, but with so much to explore along the way, it's worth taking the time to experience all the region has to offer. From iconic diners to stunning natural landscapes, historic libraries to interactive museums, and botanic gardens, the unexpected places to stop between Brooklyn, Ohio, and Oak Forest, Illinois can make your road trip one to remember. So pack your bags, hit the road, and see what the Midwest has in store for you!