A Travel Guide from Chicago to London: Top Five Popular Attractions

Are you ready for a journey from the vibrant city of Chicago to the charming town of London, Ontario? There's no need to embark on a long trip without discovering some of the most amazing attractions along the way! Here are my top five recommendations that you should add to your must-see list.

Halfway Point - Charlotte, MI

Halfway between Chicago and London, Ontario lies the quaint town of Charlotte, Michigan. A charming historic district offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its collection of well-preserved Victorian-era buildings. You'll be fascinated by the local museums with exhibits ranging from fossils to antique cars and aviation history. If you're a nature lover, then you should not miss the McCormick Park, a vast green oasis with opportunities for hiking trails, picnics, and scenic waterfalls. Charlotte, MI, is the perfect spot to break up the long-distance journey with some sightseeing.

Top Five Places to See

1. Art Institute of Chicago

Possibly the most famous artwork in the Windy City is The Bean in Millennium Park, but there's more to Chicago's art scene. The Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see destination for any enthusiast of art, from classical to contemporary. Marvel at the impressive collections of the museum, featuring masterworks from all over the world, such as American Gothic, Waterloo Bridge, Nighthawks, and Gustav Klimt's The Kiss. Art exhibits aside, the building itself is stunning, with its striking entrance, grand staircases, and massive chandeliers that make visitors feel like aristocrats.

2. Holland Michigan

Michigan has its own beach towns that are all worth your time, but Holland stands out as one of the gems. It's perfect for those seeking a relaxing and charming getaway. The sandy beaches of Lake Michigan and miles of bike paths make it a great place to spend a day outdoors. In downtown Holland, you'll find a quintessential Dutch windmill, colorful tulips, and cute shops that sell handcrafted products. Don't forget to indulge in delicious Dutch sweets, like stroopwafels and oliebollen, while sipping on your coffee.

3. Henry Ford Museum

Detroit has long-standing cultural and economic significance in America's history, making it a unique destination for history buffs. The Henry Ford Museum has an extensive collection of American technological advancements, from the first steam-powered locomotives to the modern automobiles. Visitors can see many important pieces of Americana, such as John F. Kennedy's presidential limousine, the Wright Brothers' plane, and Abraham Lincoln's chair from Ford's Theatre. The museum has an impressive amount of cultural exhibits, including a re-creation of a 1930s American Main Street.

4. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls is just a short ride away from London, Ontario, and without question, it's the most famous natural wonder in Canada and the U.S. The falls consist of three distinct waterfalls that span a little under two miles in the Niagara River and produce billions of gallons of water per minute. Whether you take a boat ride on The Maid of the Mist, hike the Niagara Glen Trail, or see the falls' majesty from behind on the Journey Behind the Falls, Niagara Falls is a truly awe-inspiring destination.

5. Stratford, Ontario

Stratford, Ontario, a world-renowned town for theater and arts, is the cherry on top of this sweet trip. Each year, thousands come from all over the world to enjoy top-quality productions at the Stratford Shakespeare Festival, which runs from April to October and includes plays by William Shakespeare and contemporary playwrights. As you stroll the city, take in the stunning architecture, and enjoy the food scene. Stratford, Ontario, is an excellent place for culture and history lovers.

The Best Route

My recommended route is to take I-94 to I-69 towards Lansing and then head to Charlotte, MI, as the midway point. From there, head across the Blue Water Bridge and follow 402 to London, Ontario. Not only is this route the shortest and more direct, but it's also the best in terms of sightseeing opportunities. With the list of exciting destinations above, this trip is sure to be one for the books. Bon voyage!