Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Centralia, IL to Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Centralia, Illinois to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan is a long drive. It requires around 13 hours of non-stop driving, which can be quite a daunting task. But, what if you could break up the journey and make it more interesting? What if you could stop along the way and discover new places you didn't even know existed? In this article, we will explore five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Centralia, Illinois to Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan.

Halfway Point: South Haven, MI

Before diving into the unexpected stops, it's important to mention the halfway point of the journey - South Haven, Michigan. This small beach town is a perfect pit stop for anyone looking to stretch their legs and soak up the sun. South Haven is located on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan and boasts miles of sandy beaches, lighthouses, and stunning sunsets. Visitors can indulge in water activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing, or take a stroll along the bustling downtown area lined with boutique shops and restaurants. We recommend grabbing lunch at Clementine's Restaurant, a local favorite that serves delicious burgers and fries.

1. Harbert Swedish Bakery - Harbert, MI

Located just 30 minutes north of South Haven, the Harbert Swedish Bakery is a hidden gem that should not be missed. This quaint bakery serves up fresh, made-from-scratch pastries and bread using traditional Swedish recipes. The cinnamon rolls are a must-try, and the cardamom bread is a close runner-up. Visitors can enjoy their treats outside on the bakery's charming patio or take them to go and continue their journey.

2. Warren Dunes State Park - Sawyer, MI

Nature lovers will appreciate the beauty of Warren Dunes State Park, located just 20 minutes north of Harbert Swedish Bakery. The park boasts 1,952 acres of rolling dunes, towering beach grass, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can hike one of the park's scenic trails, fly kites on the beach, or swim in the refreshing waters of Lake Michigan. After a day of outdoor adventure, we recommend grabbing a bite to eat at Greenbush Brewing Co. This local brewery serves up tasty sandwiches, mouth-watering pizza, and of course, ice-cold beer.

3. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - Empire, MI

A little over two hours north of Warren Dunes State Park, visitors will find Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This national park is home to towering dunes, lush forests, and stunning views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can hike to the top of the dunes for a panoramic view of the park, or take a leisurely stroll through the forests and meadows. Be sure to stop by Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor for a taste of the state's famous tart cherry products.

4. Tahquamenon Falls State Park - Paradise, MI

As you approach Sault Ste. Marie, be sure to make a detour to Tahquamenon Falls State Park. This park boasts one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River, with a drop of nearly 50 feet. Visitors can hike to the base of the falls for an up-close view, or take a scenic boat ride on the river. After a day exploring the falls, we recommend grabbing dinner at Zim's Restaurant in nearby Newberry. This classic American diner serves up hearty portions of burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

5. Soo Locks - Sault Ste. Marie, MI

Finally, no trip to Sault Ste. Marie would be complete without a visit to the Soo Locks. This engineering marvel allows ships to travel between Lake Superior and the lower Great Lakes, bypassing several treacherous rapids and waterfalls. Visitors can watch as ships pass through the locks, or take a guided tour to learn more about this fascinating process. After the tour, head to Clyde's Drive-In for a taste of the local favorite - the Clyde Burger.

Conclusion

A long drive can be tedious and mundane, but with these unexpected stops along the way, the journey becomes a memorable experience. From a Swedish bakery to towering waterfalls, this Centralia to Sault Ste. Marie road trip has something for everyone. So, pack the car, grab some snacks, and hit the road for a journey of a lifetime.