Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chicago Heights, Illinois and Cedar Lake, Indiana
Are you planning a road trip between Chicago Heights and Cedar Lake? Make the most out of your journey by exploring these top five destinations, including a quaint town, a picturesque state park, a unique museum, a delicious winery, and a scenic lake.
First, let's start with the route. Chicago Heights, Illinois, and Cedar Lake, Indiana, are approximately 30 miles apart, and the drive takes around 45 minutes. The halfway point is Crete, Illinois, a charming village with a population of about 8,000 people. Crete has several parks, historical landmarks, and restaurants, making it an ideal place to stop and stretch your legs before continuing your journey.
Without further ado, here are the top five places to visit on a trip between Chicago Heights and Cedar Lake:
1. Matthiessen State Park
A Natural Wonderland
Located in Utica, Illinois, about one hour west of Chicago Heights, Matthiessen State Park is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities. The park features rock formations, waterfalls, canyons, prairies, and forests, all waiting to be explored. Visitors can hike, bike, fish, or picnic while immersing themselves in nature's beauty. Matthiessen State Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk, and admission is free.
2. Harley-Davidson Museum
A Motorcycle Lover's Paradise
If you're a motorcycle enthusiast, you don't want to miss the Harley-Davidson Museum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, about two hours north of Chicago Heights. The museum showcases over 100 years of Harley-Davidson history, from its humble beginnings to its global impact. Visitors can see vintage motorcycles, interactive exhibits, and behind-the-scenes tours of the factory where the iconic bikes are made. The Harley-Davidson Museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, and tickets range from $14 to $28.
3. Oliver Winery
A Taste of Indiana
Located in Bloomington, Indiana, about two hours southeast of Chicago Heights, Oliver Winery is a family-owned and operated business that has been producing award-winning wines for over 50 years. Visitors can tour the winery, taste some of its varietals, and purchase bottles to take home. The outdoor patio offers a relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a glass of wine and Indiana's scenic countryside. Oliver Winery is open Monday to Saturday from 11 am to 6 pm and Sunday from 12 pm to 6 pm.
4. Lake Geneva
A Summer Haven
If you're looking for a fun and relaxing summer getaway, Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, is the perfect destination. Located about two hours north of Chicago Heights, Lake Geneva offers a variety of water activities, such as boating, fishing, and swimming, as well as charming boutiques, restaurants, and resorts. Visitors can take a stroll along the scenic Lake Geneva Shore Path, which winds around the lake and offers stunning views of the mansions and gardens. Lake Geneva is accessible year-round, but summer is the best time to enjoy its beauty.
5. Indiana Dunes State Park
A Beach Lover's Paradise
Located in Chesterton, Indiana, about 45 minutes southeast of Chicago Heights, Indiana Dunes State Park is a 2,182-acre playground that showcases the beauty of Lake Michigan. The park boasts miles of pristine sandy beaches, sand dunes, and hiking trails, all offering panoramic views of the lake. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, fish, camp, or go horseback riding while enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. Indiana Dunes State Park is open year-round, and admission ranges from $7 to $12 per vehicle.
In conclusion, a road trip between Chicago Heights, Illinois, and Cedar Lake, Indiana, can be a fun and memorable experience if you take the time to explore these top five destinations. Whether you're a nature lover, a motorcycle aficionado, a wine connoisseur, a beach bum, or a summer fan, there's something for everyone along the way. So pack your bags, fill up your tank, and hit the road to discover the beauty of the Midwest.