Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Burton, Michigan to Buffalo Grove, Illinois
Driving can be quite monotonous, especially when you have to cover a long distance. However, a road trip from Burton, Michigan to Buffalo Grove, Illinois offers a perfect opportunity to witness some breathtaking scenery while savoring some unique experiences. The 400-mile journey takes approximately six hours but offers an excellent opportunity to explore some unexpected places. Here are five locations worth stopping at to break the monotony of the journey.
Halfway Point: Paw Paw, MI
Located 200 miles from both Burton and Buffalo Grove, Paw Paw is the perfect resting spot for drivers taking this route. This small town boasts of many charming sites that make it an ideal spot to stretch your legs or spend the night on your journey. One of the notable sights in Paw Paw is the Paw Paw Brewing Company. The brewery is known for its variety of beers and ciders, making it a must-visit spot for beer enthusiasts. Visitors can sample some of the brewery's best beverages while enjoying some live music.
Paw Paw Brewing Company: No visit to Paw Paw is complete without trying some of the homemade beers and ciders from the Paw Paw Brewing Company. The brewery offers a cozy atmosphere where visitors can savor some of the brewer's favorites like the St. James English Style Amber Ale. The beers are brewed using only locally sourced ingredients.
Favorite food to eat: The brewery offers scrumptious pizzas that pair well with any of the beers.
1. Indiana Dunes National Park, IN
The Indiana Dunes National Park offers visitors an opportunity to enjoy the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan. This national park boasts over 15 miles of beaches, where visitors can engage in a plethora of activities like hiking or camping. The park has several hiking trails that exhibit some unique plant and animal species.
West Beach: West Beach is known for its stunning sand dunes, making it a favorite spot for visitors who love hiking. The beach also provides an ideal location for sunbathing, strolling, and enjoying the cool lake breeze.
Favorite food to eat: After a long walk or hike, visitors can enjoy sun-dried tomato guacamole and homemade chips at the Chantilly Cream food truck.
2. Super Museum, IL
If you are a fan of Superman, then the Super Museum is a must-visit spot for you. Located in Metropolis, Illinois, the museum houses an incredible collection of Superman's memorabilia. The museum has various galleries that showcase Superman's comics, movies, and TV shows.
Super Museum: The museum houses the world's largest collection of Superman's artifacts, making it a must-visit destination for all Superman enthusiasts. Among the museum's highlights include Superman’s costumes, phone booths, and an exhibit showcasing Superman’s comic books.
Favorite food to eat: After marveling at Superman's artifacts, visitors can enjoy some of the best barbeque dishes at the 17th Street Barbecue.
3. Harpole's Heartland Lodge, IL
Located in Pike County, Illinois, Harpole's Heartland Lodge is the perfect place to enjoy some respite from a long drive. The lodge is carefully tucked away in a serene location that offers excellent views of golden prairies. The lodge has several cozy cabins and lodges that provide an ideal spot to rest, relax, and indulge in some outdoor activities.
Harpole's Heartland Lodge: The lodge offers ample amenities for visitors looking to break the monotony of a long journey. Visitors can participate in various outdoor activities such as horseback riding or strolling around the lodge's breathtaking trails.
Favorite food to eat: The lodge's eight-ounce Ribeye steaks are to die for.
4. Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site, IL
The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is a large pre-Columbian city situated in the Mississippi River Valley. Visitors get to learn more about the unique lifestyles of the Mississippian peoples who lived in the region over 1,000 years ago. The site has several mounds and plazas that provide a glimpse of a long-gone civilization.
Monks Mound: Monks Mound is the largest of all the Mississippian mounds in the Cahokia Mounds site. Visitors can climb the 156 steps to the top of the hill to enjoy a serene view of the neighboring sites.
Favorite food to eat: Visitors can enjoy some of the best BBQ pork sandwiches, brisket and corn nuggets at the C and C Kitchen that is located a few miles from the Cahokia Mounds.
Conclusion
A journey from Burton, Michigan to Buffalo Grove, Illinois offers a unique opportunity to explore some unexpected places. From serene lodges to museums, this road trip has something for everyone. A stopover in Paw Paw makes this journey memorable. Whether you're a beer enthusiast or a nature lover, the Paw Paw Brewing Company and Indiana Dunes National Park have something unique to offer. The Super Museum, Harpole's Heartland Lodge, and Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site also provide excellent spots to indulge in some unique activities. So, plan to take this trip and experience what life is all about.