Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Chandler, Oklahoma, to Detroit, Michigan

If you love road trips, then you would agree that driving from Chandler, Oklahoma all the way up to Detroit, Michigan is quite a journey. Covering over 1,100 miles may sound challenging, but with the right stops, it can be a fun and exciting adventure. On this trip, there are five unexpected places to stop, which not only offers the chance to stretch your legs but also gives you an insight into some great American history.

The Halfway Point: Greenville, IL

First on our list is Greenville, Illinois, halfway between Chandler and Detroit. This charming Midwestern town has a rich history and several attractions. The town dates back to 1815, and the One Room School House Museum is a great place to visit for anyone interested in education history. After that, visitors can take a stroll through the picturesque Governor Bond Lake Park, which boasts a beautiful lake and forested trails. The cherry on top of a Greenville visit has to be the Incredible Pizza Company, which offers not only pizza but also other fun games and activities for visitors.

Food to eat: The Incredible Pizza Company, Greenville, is known for its delicious pizza, but guests can also try the cinnamon dessert pizza.

1. Effingham, IL (226 miles from Chandler)

When you arrive in Effingham, Illinois, you cannot go wrong with a visit to the Mid America Motorworks Museum and Gift Shop. This museum contains a vast collection of classic corvettes and memorabilia. The Tuscan Hills Winery is not far off and worth visiting for a wine tasting experience. Finally, the Firefly Grill, an upscale eatery located in Effingham, offers a menu that features locally sourced ingredients, providing a great end to your day.

Food to eat: At Firefly Grill, Effingham, they are renowned for their appetizers, such as bacon-wrapped dates stuffed with Gorgonzola and roasted garlic aioli.

2. Leland, IL (larger town; 126 miles from Effingham)

Located in Illinois, Leland, is the second place to stop on the road from Chandler to Detroit. This town has a few antique stores, and one of the best places to get antique goodies is the Midland Antiques Mall. In addition, visitors can visit the famous Leland Tower, an iconic downtown building that serves as a reminder of Leland's importance as a hub of transportation. Once visitors view the Tower, they can have lunch at the Corner Grill, a hole-in-the-wall breakfast, and lunch diner that serves up good old American food.

Food to eat: Corner Grill`s burger is a must-try for any first-time visitor.

3. Kalamazoo, MI (296 miles from Leland)

Kalamazoo is a lovely city located in Southwest Michigan, and it offers many great spots to visit. One of the leading attractions in Kalamazoo is the Air Zoo Aerospace and Science Center, which features various interactive exhibits to help visitors learn about the science, history, and technology of aeronautics. The Kalamazoo Nature Center is also worth a visit; it features miles of hiking trails and is the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. A visit to Millenium Restaurant Group's Webster's Prime restaurant is the cherry on top.

Food to eat: The ribeye steak at Webster`s Prime is one of their signature dishes, and it is cooked and served to perfection.

4. Jackson, MI (35 miles from Kalamazoo)

Situated in Southern Michigan, Jackson, MI, is a city that has an astonishing architecture mixed with a captivating history. The Ella Sharp Museum is a must-see attraction that tells Jackson's story from the Industrial era to the present day through art, science, and technology. The Saint's Rest Beach Park is the second attraction-the perfect spot for relaxing, swimming, and kayaking. For dinner, the Michigan Beer Stein Company should be on the top of your list.

Food to eat: Michigan Beer Stein Company's pretzel sticks with Cheddar beer cheese is one of their most famous appetizers and a great way to start the meal.

5. Dearborn, MI (77 miles from Jackson)

Finally, Dearborn, Michigan is the fifth and last spot on our journey. The Henry Ford Museum is one of the city's top attractions; it is a paradise for automobile enthusiasts with exhibits ranging from antique vehicles to modern-day sports cars. Also, the Greenfield Village is another historic attraction, immortalizing inventions from America's past. For dinner, nothing other than the famous Detroit-Style pizza from Buddy's Pizza.

Food to eat: Buddy's Pizza is well-renowned for its Detroit-style pizza. The Detroiter pizza is a favorite with pepperoni, tomato sauce, and a blend of three cheeses baked in a thick Sicilian-style crust.

Conclusion

A road trip is always an adventure, and when you embark on a journey from Chandler, Oklahoma to Detroit, Michigan, it is an opportunity to explore the United States' rich history. The adventure should not end in one's car; exploring the five unexpected places outlined above could create everlasting memories. While on the trip, visitors can allow themselves to indulge in new experiences, from eating pizza like the Detroiters to enjoying a glass of locally brewed wine. Plan a trip today, and be ready to have an adventure of a lifetime.