Museums, Parks, and Landmarks to Visit on a Roadtrip from Chesterfield Township to Vestaburg
Are you ready to hit the road and explore Michigan? Starting from Chesterfield Township and ending in Vestaburg, this road trip is filled with must-see museums, parks, and landmarks. In this post, we'll highlight five places you can't miss on your journey through the state.
Fun fact: Did you know that Michigan has the longest freshwater coastline in the world? With over 3,000 miles of shoreline bordering four of the five Great Lakes, this state is a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts alike.
Halfway through your trip, you'll pass through Clio, MI, a small town with a rich history dating back to the late 1800s. Make sure to stop by the Clio Area Historical Museum, which features exhibits on the lumber industry, farming, and World War II.
The total distance between Chesterfield Township and Vestaburg is approximately 160 miles, which should take you about 3 hours if you stick to the main highways. However, we recommend taking your time and making plenty of stops along the way to fully experience what Michigan has to offer.
Now, let's get into the top five places to visit on your road trip:
1. Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation
It's impossible to talk about Michigan's cultural heritage without mentioning Henry Ford's impact on the state's history. The Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation in Dearborn, MI, is a must-visit for anyone interested in cars, technology, or American history. The museum features exhibits on everything from the Wright Brothers' first flight to JFK's limousine, and even has a section dedicated to pop culture.
Point of interest: Make sure to check out the museum's famous exhibit on the Rosa Parks bus, which tells the story of the Civil Rights movement through an immersive, interactive experience.
2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
If you're in the mood for some outdoor adventure, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is the perfect place to stretch your legs and enjoy some natural beauty. Located on the shore of Lake Michigan, this park features towering sand dunes, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear freshwater lakes. Hike one of the many trails, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Point of interest: Don't miss the iconic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, which offers breathtaking views of the dunes and lake from a 450-foot overlook.
3. Mackinac Island
No trip to Michigan is complete without a visit to Mackinac Island. Located in Lake Huron between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, this quaint island is famous for its Victorian architecture, fudge shops, and lack of cars (bikes and horse-drawn carriages are the main modes of transportation). Take a ferry over to the island and spend the day exploring the historic downtown, hiking or biking along the scenic coastline, or even camping under the stars.
Point of interest: Make sure to try some of the island's famous fudge - there are over a dozen shops to choose from!
4. Soo Locks
Up in the Upper Peninsula, the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie are a marvel of engineering and one of the state's most interesting industrial sites. The locks allow ships to bypass rapids and waterfalls on the St. Marys River, connecting Lake Superior to Lake Huron and the rest of the Great Lakes system. Take a guided tour of the locks and learn about their history and operation, or simply watch as giant freighters pass through on their way to ports all over the world.
Point of interest: The best time to visit the Soo Locks is during the annual Engineer's Day in June, when visitors can tour normally restricted areas and watch the locks in action.
5. Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park
For a more laid-back cultural experience, visit the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park in Grand Rapids. This expansive park features over 20 acres of outdoor gardens, including a Japanese garden, a Michigan farm garden, and a tropical conservatory. There are also dozens of sculptures scattered throughout the park, ranging from classical Greek figures to modern abstract pieces.
Point of interest: Make sure to visit the Lena Meijer Children's Garden, a whimsical play area featuring a treehouse, giant kaleidoscope, and butterfly maze.
In conclusion, this road trip from Chesterfield Township to Vestaburg offers something for everyone - whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or simply looking for a fun day out. With five must-visit places along the way, you're sure to make unforgettable memories on your trip through Michigan.