Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Sandusky, Ohio

Traveling is therapeutic, and a road trip allows the traveler to enjoy the scenery and culture. From Chicago, Illinois, to Sandusky, Ohio, there's a lot to see and do en route. The journey is approximately 362 miles, and the halfway point is Orland, IN. Whether someone is in the mood for hiking, sightseeing, family fun, or shopping, there's something for everyone.

Hiking at Indiana Dunes National Park

The Indiana Dunes National Park is paradise for hikers or nature lovers. With more than fifteen miles of beaches, hiking trails, and a rugged coastline, there is plenty to explore. Paved roads within the park provide easy access, or for a more challenging hike, venture off the beaten path. Hikers will enjoy the diversity of each trail. From steep climbs to breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, it's one of the best ways to stretch one's legs during a road trip.

Interesting Fact: Indiana Dunes National Park is part of the world's largest freshwater coastal ecosystem, bringing together different wildlife species.

Touring the Manufacturing Industry at Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum

Car enthusiasts will undoubtedly appreciate this museum. Auburn Cord Duesenberg Automobile Museum is home to one of the most extensive collections of Auburn, Cord, and Duesenberg Built automobiles. Visitors get a chance to take a stroll through history, learn about the manufacturing industry, and view some of the world's most expensive cars. The museum features a gift shop that sells genuine souvenirs and a library containing thousands of rare automotive journals, original factory drawings, and engineering documents.

Interesting Fact: The museum was opened in 1974 as the Auburn Cord Duesenberg Museum and underwent a significant expansion in the late 1990s.

Visiting Windmill Island Gardens

Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, Michigan, offers visitors a chance to take a train ride, witness the manufacture of wooden shoes, and enjoy the beauty the environment offers. The highlight of the park is a 250-year-old authentic Dutch windmill. Visitors can tour the windmill and learn about the mechanics that make it tick. The theme of the park is Dutch culture, so visitors can expect to see staff dressed in traditional Dutch clothing, and there is a multitude of shops where one can purchase authentic Dutch souvenirs.

Interesting Fact: The windmill’s name is De Zwaan, and it was transported to the United States from the Netherlands in 1964.

Fun and Sun at Kalahari Resorts & Conventions

Located in Sandusky, Ohio, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is a destination for family fun and adventure. The indoor water park is a hit with children, while adults can partake in some shopping or relax in the spa or leisure centers. The park boasts hotel accommodations, dining facilities, and a convention center.

Interesting Fact: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is the largest indoor water park in the United States.

Exploring Chicago Botanic Garden

Heading back to Chicago, Illinois, the Chicago Botanic Garden provides visitors with an opportunity to experience an extensive collection of plants from across the globe. The garden is open year-round and covers 385 acres with over 27 distinct gardens. Visitors can take an educational tour or self-guide themselves to take a stroll through the serene environment. There are different blooms throughout the season, which means every visit will be a new experience.

Interesting Fact: The Chicago Botanic Garden features an amphitheater that hosts live music and events during summer.

Conclusion

The road trip from Chicago, Illinois to Sandusky, Ohio, offers an array of sights and experiences. From hiking, touring the manufacturing industry, shopping, and family fun, there's something for every traveler. It takes around six hours to cover 362 miles, so it's perfect for weekend getaways, and there's no better way to enjoy the journey than by following this road trip route.