A Road Trip from Chicago, IL to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: 5 Unexpected Places to Stop

Taking a road trip from Chicago, IL to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario is a journey that starts from one of the busiest cities in the United States and ends in a small but historically rich Canadian city nestled on the banks of Lake Superior. The route covers over 800 miles and takes approximately 12 hours without stops. However, there are several interesting places to see along the way, making the journey worth taking. Here are five unexpected places to stop on a drive from Chicago, IL to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario.

Reed City, MI

Although it's not exactly the midpoint of the journey, Reed City, MI is an excellent stop for anyone looking to break up the drive. This small town has a rich history dating back to the 19th century, and it's home to many antique stores and restaurants. In fact, tourists can spend hours exploring the many antique shops in the town and finding unique items to add to their collections. For those who want a quick bite, the Full Circle Cafe is an excellent restaurant that serves freshly cooked meals. The best thing about Reed City is the friendliness of the locals, and visitors will find that the people are always eager to welcome them.

Food to try: The Full Circle Café's Club Sandwich.

Traverse City, MI

Traverse City, MI, is known for its cherries and is the largest producer of tart cherries in the country. Visitors can tour cherry orchards, sample cherry preserves and pies, and even attend a Cherry Festival in July. However, Traverse City has so much more to offer. The city has a thriving arts scene, with many galleries and exhibits showcasing local artists. Visitors can also take a stroll along the shoreline of Lake Michigan, which is a breathtaking sight. There are several restaurants in Traverse City that visitors should not miss out on, including the Grand Traverse Pie Company, which serves some of the best pies in the city.

Food to try: The Grand Traverse Pie Company's Cherry Pie.

Mackinac Island, MI

Mackinac Island, MI, is a small island located between the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan. Access to the island is only by ferry, and motorized vehicles are not allowed, making it a unique destination. Visitors can explore the island on foot, bicycles, or horse-drawn carriages. There are many historical sites on Mackinac Island, including Fort Mackinac, which was built in 1780 and served as a military outpost for over a century. For those looking for a thrill, there is also a butterfly house that visitors can explore. The island is famous for its fudge, and tourists can sample some of the best fudge in the world at one of the many fudge shops on the island.

Food to try: Mackinac Island Fudge.

Tahquamenon Falls State Park, MI

Tahquamenon Falls State Park is located in Michigan's Upper Peninsula and is famous for its waterfalls. The park covers over 50,000 acres, and the Tahquamenon River runs through it. There are several hiking trails that visitors can explore to see the fantastic views of the Falls, including a 4.5-mile hike that takes hikers to the Upper Falls. Besides hiking, visitors can also go fishing, kayaking, and camping. There are several picnic areas within the park, making it a perfect place to stop for lunch.

Food to try: Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich with an apple from outside the park.

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is the final stop on this road trip, and it is a city filled with history. The city was a major trading post during the fur trade, and it has a rich military history going back several centuries. Visitors can explore several museums, including the Ermatinger Clergue National Historic Site, which is a restored fur trading post from the 1800s. For those who love the outdoors, there are several parks and green spaces where visitors can take a leisurely walk. The city is a foodie's paradise with several restaurants that serve local cuisine.

Food to try: Poutine.

Conclusion

Taking a road trip from Chicago, IL to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, is an adventure that takes tourists through some of the most overlooked and unexpected destinations in the United States and Canada. From the antique shops of Reed City to the cherry orchards of Traverse City, the island paradise of Mackinac Island, the scenic vistas of Tahquamenon Falls State Park, and the rich history of Sault Ste. Marie, this road trip offers something for everyone. So pack your bags, hit the road, and embark on this unforgettable journey!