Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL and Hudsonville, MI

Hitting the road from Chicago to Hudsonville promises to be an amazing adventure, covering over 200 miles of scenic highways and picturesque landscapes. The trip offers a wide range of thrilling activities and awe-inspiring locations for travelers to discover. The halfway point of Bridgman, MI offers a perfect opportunity to take a break, stretch the legs, and indulge in some local delicacies. Here are the top five things to do on this remarkable road trip.

1. Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Park is a unique experience that every traveler must encounter. The park has 15 miles of pristine beaches that offer magnificent views of Lake Michigan. Visitors can enjoy hiking on trails that wander through the dunes amidst diverse plant and animal species. The park also has campsites, fishing spots, and horseback riding trails for visitors to explore.

Interesting fact: The Indiana Dunes National Park is one of the 20 most visited national parks in the US, attracting over two million visitors in 2018.

2. Saugatuck Dune Rides

If you are looking for an adrenaline rush, Saugatuck Dune Rides should be your next stop. This exciting tour offers 40-minute rides in custom-built vehicles driven by experienced drivers. Visitors get the chance to climb 300- foot-tall dunes along the shore of Lake Michigan and enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the lake from the top.

Interesting fact: Saugatuck Dune Rides have been in operation since 1953, making them one of the oldest dune rides in the US.

3. Oval Beach

Oval Beach is a stunning destination for travelers seeking relaxation and natural beauty. Nestled on Lake Michigan, this pristine beach is a picture-perfect spot to enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. Visitors can also take a stroll on the beach walk, have a picnic, or rent a cabana for ultimate comfort.

Interesting fact: Oval Beach was rated as the best freshwater beach in the US by CNN Travel in 2018.

4. Holland State Park

Holland State Park is a fantastic family-friendly destination that offers tons of activities. The park features two beaches- a secluded beach on Lake Macatawa for swimming and sunbathing, and a public beach on Lake Michigan for kiteboarding, beach volleyball, and sunsets. Visitors can also explore the Big Red Lighthouse, rent a boat or take a walk on one of the scenic walking trails.

Interesting fact: Up until 1932, Holland State Park was still being used as an amusement park with water slides and a large wooden roller coaster.

5. Windmill Island Gardens

Windmill Island Gardens is a place of serene beauty with a touch of Dutch culture. The gardens have a 252-year-old working windmill that grinds cornmeal, and a display of over 100,000 tulips in the springtime. Visitors can tour the gardens, observe the windmill in action, and learn about the Dutch heritage and traditions.

Interesting fact: The windmill at Windmill Island Gardens was shipped from the Netherlands in pieces and assembled on site in 1964.

The Chicago to Hudsonville road trip provides an array of breathtaking sights and thrilling activities, making it a must-do for any travel enthusiast. The trip takes approximately a 3 1/2 hour drive without stops, but with so many remarkable locations to explore, visitors could easily spend a few days discovering the area. Whether you are seeking adventure or relaxation, the road trip from Chicago to Hudsonville has something for everyone.