Top Five List of the Best Places to Visit on a Trip Between Chicago, Illinois and Portage, Indiana
Are you planning a road trip from Chicago to Portage? Don't miss out on the hidden gems along the way. Here are the top five must-visit places you shouldn't miss!
Halfway Point: Whiting, IN
One of the best things about a road trip is breaking up the monotony with pitstops and exploring new places. Whiting, Indiana, makes for the perfect halfway point between Chicago and Portage. Whiting is a small city known for its vibrant downtown area, beautiful lakefront, and oil industry heritage. It's also known for its annual Pierogi Fest, a quirky celebration of Eastern European culture and food that attracts visitors from all over the Midwest. Take a stroll around the historic downtown and visit the Whiting Lakefront Park for stunning views of Lake Michigan.
1. Indiana Dunes National Park
Just a short drive from Whiting is the Indiana Dunes National Park. With over 15,000 acres of preserved land, there's no better place to enjoy the sandy dunes, beach, and the beauty of the surrounding wilderness. The park boasts 15 miles of pristine beaches along Lake Michigan, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. The park also has 50 miles of hiking trails, dunes, forests, and wetlands, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers, bird-watchers, and adventure seekers.
2. Hesston Steam Museum
If you're a history buff, you'll love this next stop on our list - the Hesston Steam Museum. Located in LaPorte, Indiana, this unique museum showcases working steam-powered machinery and antique engines from the 19th and 20th centuries. Take a ride on a steam-powered train through the museum's grounds and check out the sawmill, sawdust-fired steam power plant, and other cool exhibits. This museum is not only educational but also great for kids and adults alike.
3. Albanese Candy Factory
Calling all candy lovers! Next on our list is the Albanese Candy Factory in Merrillville, Indiana. This family-owned candy factory has been making chocolate and gummies for over 30 years and is now the largest gummy bear manufacturer in the world. Take a free factory tour and see how they make their delicious treats. You can also shop for souvenirs, gifts, and of course, candy. Don't forget to grab some of their famous chocolate-dipped gummy bears on your way out!
4. Chicago Botanic Garden
Just a short drive from Portage is the Chicago Botanic Garden, one of the best places to visit in the Greater Chicago area. With over 385 acres of landscaped gardens and natural areas, the Chicago Botanic Garden offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here you can explore 27 display gardens, four natural areas, and over 2.5 million live plants. The garden also has a library, a plant conservation science center, and a café where you can relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
5. Museum of Science and Industry
Last but not least, if you're a science geek or history buff, you won't want to miss the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago. This museum is one of the largest science museums in the world and has over 400,000 square feet of exhibitions, interactive displays, and artifacts. Highlights include the U-505 Submarine Exhibit, the Pioneer Zephyr Train, and a massive indoor tornado exhibit. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the museum and learning about science and technology.
In Conclusion
There you have it, our top five picks for the best places to visit on your road trip between Chicago and Portage. From nature and history to candy and science, there's something for everyone along this route. Don't forget to pack your cameras and get ready for some unforgettable experiences.