Best Things to do on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL to La Porte, IN
Chicago, a bustling city with skyscrapers and world-class museums, offers visitors a plethora of attractions. But for those looking to escape the city's fast-paced life, a trip to La Porte, a cozy town in Indiana, might just be the answer. The road trip from Chicago to La Porte takes about two hours, passing through beautiful sceneries and small towns that capture the essence of Midwest living. Halfway through the trip, in Lake Station, IN, visitors can witness the birthplace of Michael Jackson, a famous musician and artist.
Top Five Things to do
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
Indiana Dunes National Park is a 15,000-acre park that offers visitors an array of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and beach-going. The park has miles of sandy shores along Lake Michigan, providing an excellent spot for swimming and sunbathing. Besides, the park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including rare species like the Pitcher's Thistle, making it an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.
Interesting fact: The Indiana Dunes National Park is home to over 350 species of birds.
2. John Dillinger Museum
Visitors interested in American history can explore the story of John Dillinger, a notorious criminal of the 1930s, at the John Dillinger Museum. The museum houses artifacts, pictures, and stories of Dillinger's life, his notorious bank robberies, and his eventual capture.
Interesting fact: John Dillinger escaped from jail twice, making him one of the most successful jailbreakers in American history.
3. Blue Chip Casino
For those looking for a bit of glamor and excitement, the Blue Chip Casino in La Porte is an excellent destination. The casino boasts of over 1,700 slot machines, 42 table games, and a luxurious spa and hotel. Visitors can try their luck at blackjack, craps, or roulette, or take a relaxing spa treatment.
Interesting fact: Blue Chip Casino is one of the largest casinos in Indiana, and its name comes from the blue poker chip, which is traditionally the most valuable at the table.
4. Albanese Candy Factory
The Albanese Candy Factory is a delightful destination for all ages. Visitors can take a tour of the factory, watch how candies are made, and sample an array of gummy candies, chocolates, and nuts. The factory also has a charming store where visitors can purchase bags of their favorite treats to snack on during the rest of their road trip.
Interesting fact: The Albanese Candy Factory produces over 6,000 pounds of gummy candies each day.
5. Washington Park Zoo
The Washington Park Zoo in Michigan City, just a few miles from La Porte, is a great place to learn about different animal species. The zoo has over 90 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and giraffes. The zoo's location by the shore provides visitors with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Interesting fact: The Washington Park Zoo has a white alligator, one of only 40 in the world.
Conclusion
The two-hour road trip from Chicago to La Porte, Indiana, offers visitors a variety of activities, from exploring outdoor activities in the Indiana Dunes National Park to trying their luck at the Blue Chip Casino. Along the way, visitors can stop at Lake Station, IN, and visit the birthplace of Michael Jackson. Whether visitors prefer history, nature, or fun, there is something for everyone in this Midwest road trip.