The Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, IL to Old Toronto, ON

If you are planning a road trip from Chicago, IL to Old Toronto, ON, get ready for an exciting adventure. This journey allows you to enjoy the urban attractions of Chicago, explore the natural beauty of Michigan, and appreciate the charm of Canada's largest city. The halfway point of the trip is Flint, MI, where travelers can stop for a bite to eat and stretch their legs. This article will explore the top five things to do on this road trip route, including interesting facts about each location.

1. Visit Millennium Park in Chicago

A must-see location in Chicago is Millennium Park, an urban green space packed with attractions such as the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, the Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as the "Bean"), and the Crown Fountain. The park hosts various events throughout the year, such as outdoor concerts and art fairs. Visitors can relax on the grass or take a stroll through the gardens. Interestingly, the park was created as part of a plan to redevelop the city's downtown area and attract more tourists.

2. Take a Boat Tour of the Chicago River

Another way to experience the city of Chicago is by taking a boat tour of the Chicago River, which runs through the heart of downtown. Travelers can learn about the city's architecture and history as they sail past landmarks such as the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the Wrigley Building, and the Trump Tower. The river tour is also an opportunity to see the city's impressive skyline from a different perspective. Fun fact: the Chicago River was famously dyed green for St. Patrick's Day in 1962, and the tradition continues to this day.

3. Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a beautiful natural area in Michigan that stretches along Lake Michigan's eastern coastline. The park features towering sand dunes, forests, and beaches. Visitors can hike, swim, kayak, or simply take in the stunning views. The park is also home to various wildlife, such as black bears, deer, and coyotes. An interesting fact about the park is that it is named after a Native American legend about a mother bear who swam across the lake with her cubs, creating the dunes as she climbed the shore for a place to rest.

4. Visit Niagara Falls

No road trip from the U.S. to Canada is complete without a stop at Niagara Falls, one of the most famous natural wonders in North America. The falls are located on the border between Ontario and New York State, and visitors can view them from either side. Boat tours take visitors right up to the base of the falls, while observation decks provide sweeping panoramic views. The area around the falls is also packed with attractions, such as casinos and theme parks. Fun fact: the first person to go over Niagara Falls in a barrel and survive was Annie Edson Taylor in 1901.

5. Discover Old Toronto's Distillery District

In Old Toronto, the Distillery District is a pedestrian-only area that was once the site of the Gooderham and Worts Distillery, which was one of the largest distilleries in the world in the late 19th century. Today, the district has been transformed into a trendy neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, galleries, and shops. Visitors can take a guided tour of the historic buildings, admire street art, or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere. An interesting fact about the district is that it has been featured in numerous movies and TV shows, such as "Murdoch Mysteries" and "The Handmaid's Tale".

In conclusion, this road trip from Chicago to Old Toronto offers a diverse range of attractions, from urban landmarks to natural wonders and historical sites. The journey takes approximately 10 hours, not including stops, but travelers can easily spend several days exploring each location. Whether you are interested in art, architecture, nature, or culture, there is something for everyone on this road trip route. Don't forget to pack your camera and enjoy the ride!