The Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Houghton, Michigan

Chicago, Illinois - The starting point for this exciting road trip is the vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois. Known for its stunning skyline, delicious deep-dish pizza, and rich history, it's the perfect place to kick off a journey through the Midwest. As travelers make their way north, they'll pass through the charming city of Green Bay, Wisconsin, which is the halfway point of the trip. Onward to Houghton, Michigan, a picturesque town nestled on the shores of Lake Superior.

Top Five Things to do on the Road Trip:

Explore Millennium Park - Millennium Park is a must-see destination in Chicago. Visitors can take a stroll through the lush gardens, marvel at the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, and enjoy live performances at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. It's the perfect spot to soak up the city's energy and snap some memorable photos. Fun Fact: Millennium Park is home to the famous "Bean" sculpture, officially named Cloud Gate, which weighs in at 110 tons.

Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum - As travelers make their way through Wisconsin, a stop at the Milwaukee Art Museum is a must. Housing over 30,000 works of art, the museum's diverse collection includes pieces from ancient Greece, 19th-century America, and modern Europe. The museum's iconic Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a work of art in itself, with a moveable sunscreen that opens and closes like a bird's wings. Fun Fact: The museum's Burke Brise Soleil "wings" can open and close in just 3 minutes.

Experience Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore - Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, located along the southern shore of Lake Superior in Michigan, is a natural wonder not to be missed. With its towering multicolored sandstone cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and pristine beaches, the park offers endless opportunities for hiking, camping, kayaking, and wildlife viewing. Adventurous visitors can explore the park's sea caves and waterfalls by boat or kayak for a truly unforgettable experience. Fun Fact: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore boasts over 100 miles of hiking trails, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

Discover Tahquamenon Falls State Park - Tahquamenon Falls State Park is home to the breathtaking Tahquamenon Falls, one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi River. The amber-colored waters of the falls are a result of tannins leached from the cedar, spruce, and hemlock swamps that the river drains. Visitors can take a scenic hike along the river to view the upper and lower falls or enjoy a delicious meal at the park's brewpub, which serves up tasty local cuisine and craft beers. Fun Fact: The upper falls of Tahquamenon Falls can be as wide as 200 feet with a drop of nearly 50 feet, making it a truly spectacular sight.

Visit the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum - Housed on the campus of Michigan Technological University in Houghton, the A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum is a hidden gem for those fascinated by geology and earth science. The museum's collection includes over 50,000 mineral, rock, and ore specimens, including the world's largest crystalline copper specimen. Visitors can explore the museum's interactive exhibits and learn about the geological history of the Great Lakes region. Fun Fact: The A.E. Seaman Mineral Museum's collection includes the stunning "Copper Queen," a 28-ton native copper specimen.

In conclusion, the road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Houghton, Michigan offers an incredible mix of urban excitement, natural beauty, and cultural exploration. With a distance of approximately 480 miles, the trip can be completed in about 8 hours, with plenty of worthwhile stops along the way. From the bustling streets of Chicago to the majestic shores of Lake Superior, this road trip promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Midwest.