A Road Trip from Canton, Michigan to Dearborn, Michigan: The Best Things to Do

The open road beckons and there's no better way to explore Michigan than on a road trip. A journey between Canton and Dearborn will take you through some beautiful scenery and offer plenty of opportunities for adventure. Approximately halfway through the trip, you will pass through Romulus, MI, a great place to stretch your legs and explore. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip:

1. Visit The Henry Ford Museum

The Henry Ford Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in US history and innovation. It houses a stunning collection of artifacts, including famous trains, automobiles, aircraft, and exhibits on manufacturing, agriculture and technology. The museum is named after Henry Ford, the founder of Ford Motor Company and houses his personal collection of historical machines. It also showcases other important American figures like Thomas Edison and Rosa Parks. The museum is open Monday through Sunday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m and requires an admission fee.

Interesting fact: The Museum has a collection of more than 26 million artifacts, including Abraham Lincoln's chair from the Ford's Theater and the bus in which Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat.

2. Learn about the Arab American National Museum

Located in Dearborn, the Arab American National Museum is the only museum in the United States that showcases Arab American history, culture, and contributions to society. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that cover art, food, politics, and even sports. The aim of the museum is to provide a better understanding of Arab Americans' achievements and challenges in the US. The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m, and the admission fee is $8.

Interesting fact: The museum has a collection of more than 800 objects and artworks that provide insights into Arab American culture, history and identity.

3. Enjoy a Scenic Drive at Island Lake State Recreation Area

Island Lake State Recreation Area is a picturesque park located in Brighton, MI, 30 minutes away from Canton. The park has more than 4,000 acres of land that includes a beautiful lake, campgrounds, hiking and biking trails, and off-road vehicle trails. Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, fishing, and swimming in the lake. The campgrounds offer various amenities like picnic shelters, fire pits, and drinking water. The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., and the admission fee is $11 for a day pass.

Interesting fact: The park was once a tuberculosis hospital and a farm that was owned by several families from the 1800s until the Michigan Department of Natural Resources acquired it in 1944.

4. Experience the Beauty of The Henry Ford Estate

The Henry Ford Estate is a stunning property in Dearborn, MI, that includes a 1,300-acre park, a formal garden, and a historical home that belonged to Henry and Clara Ford. Visitors can take a guided tour of the home, which showcases the couple's lifestyle and design. The estate is famous for its Rose Garden and is a popular wedding venue. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset, and the admission fee is $5 for adults.

Interesting fact: The Estate has hosted several high profile guests, including President Franklin D. Roosevelt and inventor Thomas Edison.

5. Stop at the Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society

The Michigan Military Technical & Historical Society is a unique museum that displays an extensive collection of military vehicles and artifacts. The museum is located in Eastpointe, MI and has more than 150 military vehicles, ranging from tanks to helicopters. It also has several rare artifacts like captured enemy weapons, personal gear, and war memorabilia. Visitors can take a guided tour of the collection or explore it on their own. The museum is open on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the admission fee is $5 for adults.

Interesting fact: The museum's collection includes the world's oldest operational Jeep that is still drivable on a regular basis.

Conclusion

This road trip offers a great mix of historical, educational, and recreational activities. The total trip should take around 1 hour and 30 minutes. Visitors will enjoy the scenic drive, learn about American history and culture, and experience the beauty of Michigan's outdoors. Whether you are traveling solo or with your family, this road trip is sure to create unforgettable memories.