Points of Interest between Canton, Michigan to Carol Stream, Illinois

picture of Canton, Michigan

Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Canton, Michigan to Carol Stream, Illinois

Have you ever embarked on a road trip that has taken you through unexpected places, revealing hidden gems along the way? This article will present five such places that you can explore on a drive from Canton, Michigan to Carol Stream, Illinois. The route covers approximately 255 miles and takes around four hours and twenty minutes to complete. This article offers a map to help you navigate the route and make the most out of your journey.

Halfway Stop: Watervliet, MI

Before we dive into the five unexpected places on this road trip, let's begin with the midpoint: Watervliet, MI. Known as the “Little City with a Big Future,” Watervliet is an attractive destination for those who seek natural beauty and a vibrant community. The city is located midway between Chicago and Detroit, making it a perfect rest stop on your journey.

  1. New Buffalo, MI (29 miles from Watervliet)

New Buffalo, MI, is a quintessential Lake Michigan resort town that offers pristine beaches, scenic parks, and local eateries and wineries. The town is situated on the shore of Lake Michigan, and boasts four public beaches: Lions Beach, New Buffalo City Beach, Oselka Marina Beach, and Sherwood Forest Beach. Visitors can explore the town's vibrant arts scene by visiting the New Buffalo Art Gallery or take a stroll through the Galien River County Park and witness the beauty of Michigan's natural landscape.

Favorite food to eat: A sandwich or salad from David's Delicatessen & Coffee.

  1. La Porte, IN (23 miles from New Buffalo)

Located in the middle of the Michigan City-La Porte Metropolitan Area, La Porte, IN, is an unexpected gem on your Michigan-to-Illinois road trip. The city takes great pride in its historic architecture, parks, and cultural events. Visitors can explore the historic downtown area, which features several 19th-century buildings that house local retailers and artisans.

Favorite food to eat: A Hoosier pork tenderloin sandwich from Thyme of Grace.

  1. Nappanee, IN (33 miles from La Porte)

If you're a fan of handmade furniture and historical architecture, Nappanee, IN, is the place to be. The town is home to several Amish furniture makers who create high-quality, handcrafted furniture and accessories. Visitors can tour the town and explore its unique architecture, including the Coppes Commons—a collection of converted factory buildings that now house local retailers, restaurants, and galleries.

Favorite food to eat: A slice of homemade pie at the Coppes Commons Bakery & Cafe.

  1. Shipshewana, IN (17 miles from Nappanee)

No trip to Northern Indiana is complete without a visit to Shipshewana, IN, an Amish enclave with a rich history and vibrant culture. Visitors can witness a rural, horse-and-buggy way of life that harkens back to a simpler time. The town is home to several restaurants, antique stores, and the world-famous Shipshewana Auction & Flea Market, an outdoor marketplace that attracts visitors from around the world.

Favorite food to eat: Homestyle breakfast at the Blue Gate Restaurant & Bakery.

  1. St. Joseph, MI (44 miles from Shipshewana)

Our road trip concludes at St. Joseph, MI, a picturesque beach town located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The town is a popular summertime destination, thanks to its pristine beaches, lighthouses, and parks. Visitors can explore the Silver Beach County Park, which features a children's museum, fountain, and vintage carousel, or visit the Krasl Art Center, which houses an impressive collection of contemporary art.

Favorite food to eat: A bowl of clam chowder or a fish taco at the Silver Beach Pizza Company.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Canton, Michigan to Carol Stream, Illinois, provides an opportunity to experience some of the hidden gems along the way. Whether you're a nature lover, history buff, foodie or an explorer at heart, this route offers something for everyone. From the pristine beaches of New Buffalo to the Amish culture of Shipshewana, each destination has its unique charm and character. So, grab your map, plan your route, and hit the road to explore the five unexpected places on this journey.