Chicago to Hammond: Top Five Places to Visit
Looking for a fun and adventurous trip between Chicago, Illinois and Hammond, Indiana? Look no further! Here are the top five places you must visit on your journey!
Chicago - The Halfway Point
The journey begins in the Windy City, Chicago, which is considered the cultural, financial, and transportation hub of the Midwest. The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious food. You can visit Millennium Park to snap a photo with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, take an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River, or enjoy a slice of deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria.
- Indiana Dunes National Park
After departing Chicago, your first stop should be Indiana Dunes National Park, which boasts 15 miles of pristine beaches along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. The park comprises over 15,000 acres of diverse habitats, including open water, forests, wetlands, and dunes that soar up to 200 feet above the lake. You can enjoy a wide range of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, fishing, camping, bird watching, and cross-country skiing in winter.
- Albanese Candy Factory
Next up is the Albanese Candy Factory, a paradise for those with a sweet tooth. This family-owned business produces more than 100 chewy, sour, and gummy candies, including bears, worms, frogs, and butterflies. You can take a factory tour to see how the candies are made or shop for souvenirs at the gift shop. Don't forget to try the free samples and taste the award-winning chocolate-covered gummy bears!
- Illiana Wildlife and Birding Trail
The Illiana Wildlife and Birding Trail is a hidden gem for nature lovers. This 28-mile trail runs along the Little Calumet River and connects several state parks and natural areas, such as the Lemon Lake County Park and the Hoosier Prairie State Nature Preserve. You can spot a wide variety of birds, butterflies, and mammals, including bald eagles, sandhill cranes, and river otters. You can also enjoy hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing in a peaceful and scenic setting.
- Shrine of the Christ's Passion
The Shrine of the Christ's Passion is a religious and cultural attraction that features 40 life-size bronze statues depicting the last moments of Jesus Christ's life, from the Garden of Gethsemane to the Resurrection. The statues are located along a half-mile outdoor trail that takes visitors through various scenic and symbolic settings, such as the Crucifixion, the Pieta, and the Ascension. You can also visit the Welcome Center to learn about the history and significance of the Shrine and shop for religious gifts.
- Horseshoe Hammond Casino
Last but not least is the Horseshoe Hammond Casino, a premier gaming and entertainment destination. The casino features over 3,000 slot machines, 100 table games, and a poker room, as well as several restaurants, bars, and a concert venue. You can enjoy live performances by famous artists, such as Gladys Knight, Johnny Mathis, and Pat Benatar, or indulge in fine dining at Jack Binion's Steakhouse or The Village Square Buffet.
In summary, this trip from Chicago to Hammond offers a diverse range of attractions, including natural beauty, sweet treats, wildlife, art, culture, and entertainment. Whether you are a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, you are sure to find something that suits your interests and budget. Happy travels!