Top Five Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chicago, IL and Manchester, NH

Are you planning a road trip between Chicago and Manchester? Look no further! Here are the top five places you don't want to miss along the way.

The Route and Halfway Point

Before we get started, let's quickly talk about the route. You'll start in Chicago and head east on I-90 through Indiana and Ohio. You'll then enter Pennsylvania and continue onto New York. The halfway point is Hamburg, NY, where you can take a break and explore some of the local sights.

1. Millennium Park - Chicago, IL

"The Jewel of the Windy City"

Start your trip off with a bang at Millennium Park, one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks. This 24.5-acre public park is home to a variety of art installations, gardens, and outdoor spaces. Take a selfie in front of the famous "Cloud Gate" sculpture, also known as "The Bean," grab a picnic lunch and head to the Great Lawn, or catch a live performance at the outdoor Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

2. Cedar Point - Sandusky, OH

"America's Roller Coast"

If you're a thrill-seeker, Cedar Point is a must-visit destination. This amusement park boasts a whopping 72 rides, including 18 roller coasters. Hold on tight as you ride the world's second-tallest and third-fastest roller coaster, "Top Thrill Dragster," or take a spin on the classic wooden coaster, "Blue Streak." There are also plenty of family-friendly rides and attractions, as well as a water park to cool off on hot summer days.

3. Presque Isle State Park - Erie, PA

"A Beach Getaway in the Heart of Pennsylvania"

Who knew Pennsylvania had beaches? Presque Isle State Park is a 3,200-acre peninsula that juts out into Lake Erie, offering stunning views and a variety of outdoor activities. Lay on the sandy beaches, go for a swim in the lake, hike or bike the many trails, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the water. There's also a marina, fishing pier, and a historic lighthouse to check out.

4. Watkins Glen State Park - Watkins Glen, NY

"A Natural Wonder in the Finger Lakes"

Watkins Glen State Park is a breathtaking natural wonder that features a series of stunning waterfalls and cascades. The park's main attraction is the Gorge Trail, a 1.5-mile trek that takes you through the heart of the gorge. Along the way, you'll cross over stone bridges, walk under waterfalls, and wind your way through tunnels and caverns. This is a must-visit destination for any nature lover.

5. Portsmouth, NH

"A Quaint New England Seaport"

The final stop on your road trip is the charming town of Portsmouth, located on the coast of New Hampshire. This quaint seaport is filled with historic buildings, cobblestone streets, and beautiful views of the Piscataqua River. Take a stroll through the bustling Market Square, stop in at one of the local microbreweries, or visit the USS Albacore Museum, a retired submarine that's now a historic landmark.

In Conclusion

So there you have it, the top five places to visit on a road trip between Chicago and Manchester. From iconic landmarks to natural wonders to charming small towns, there's something for everyone. Happy travels!