Road Trip from Calumet City to Detroit: Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit
Driving from Calumet City in Illinois to Detroit, Michigan might seem like a long road trip, but it's an adventure full of attractions, landmarks, and natural beauty that will make the journey worthwhile. This road trip takes about four hours, covering 270 miles on I-94 E.
Did you know that I-94 E is the oldest United States Interstate Highway?
Halfway point of this drive is Galesburg, MI. You can take a break, rest and recharge, grab some food and explore nearby attractions.
This road trip can provide travelers with approximately 4 hours of relaxation and fun. With plenty of entertainment stops, here are some top recommendations for places to visit:
- Indiana Dunes National Park: A National park with a collection of more than 15,000 acres of sand dunes, wildlife, historical sites, and beach areas. Experience the diverse range of wetland habitats, miles of hiking trails, and endless opportunities for adventure. At the park, visitors can hike, fish, horseback ride, bird watch, swim, and picnic. Moreover, it has both formal and informal education programs that bring the area's history to life.
- Point of Interest: The area is known for its sand dunes, and for families with kids, they can try sandboarding, building sand castles, or just play around in the plenty of water areas.
- Michigan City Lighthouse: Michigan City Lighthouse is located in Michigan City, Indiana, and stands on the south pier head at the entrance to the harbor. This lighthouse was built in 1904 and stands at 40 feet tall. Visitors can take a tour, explore the area, and learn about the history of the lighthouse and the city.
- Point of Interest: Visitors can take a walk to the nearby Washington Park and enjoy the beach, playgrounds, and the Zoo.
- Motown Museum: The Motown Museum is located in Hitsville U.S.A, the house where Berry Gordy began Motown Records. The museum contains an extensive collection of Motown artist artifacts, photographs, memorabilia, and exhibits that tell the story of Motown. Visitors can tour the studio, listen to music, and explore the history of one of the greatest independent music producers whose records yielded 110 Top 10 hits.
- Point of Interest: Park at the Studio, and walk to the corner House of Soul Delicious Grill and Bar owned and operated by a distinguished Motown Records expert.
- Belle Isle Park: Belle Isle Park is a 987-acre park located on Belle Isle in the Detroit River between Detroit, Michigan, and Windsor, Ontario. The park contains several features, including the Detroit Yacht Club, the Belle Isle Conservatory, the Michigan State Police Troopers Memorial, and many recreation areas. Visitors can enjoy the Belle Isle Aquarium, nature trails, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum, and more.
- Point of Interest: Drive around the island and enjoy views of the Detroit skyline or check out sports car racing at the island's Grand Prix.
- Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation: Located in Dearborn, Michigan, this museum is dedicated to innovation that changed the world by celebrating the achievements of American pioneers. The museum has an extensive collection of more than 26 million artifacts, including the Rosa Parks Bus, John F. Kennedy's presidential limousine, the Wright Brothers' bicycle, and more. Visitors can explore the exhibits, take a tour, shop, and enjoy dining at the museum's restaurants.
- Point of Interest: Visitors can also enjoy a taste of history with a sampling of cider and donuts at the cider mill next door.
This road trip covers several landscapes, from sandy dunes to urban wonders filled with historical treasures. It offers enough entertainment to fill a day or two along the way. With the use of this guide recommendations, hopefully, this will make your journey even more memorable. Safe travels!