A Road Trip from Chicago to Traverse City: Top Five Popular Attractions.
If you're looking for a fun vacation destination that's not too far from Chicago, Michigan's "up north" region is a fantastic option. Traverse City, located on the shore of Lake Michigan, is a charming town that offers plenty of outdoor activities, local cuisine, and vibrant culture. But before we get there, we suggest taking some detours along the way to explore the unique attractions that define this region. Here are the top five places to see on a road trip from Chicago to Traverse City.
Halfway Point: Holland, MI
Holland, Michigan is an ideal halfway point between Chicago and Traverse City. The city is famous for its tulip festival, which takes place every spring, but any time of year is beautiful.
Start by visiting the Holland State Park, located on the shore of Lake Michigan. The park boasts miles of white, sandy beach, dunes, and birdwatching opportunities. Next, explore the town's Dutch heritage at the Windmill Island Gardens. This beautifully landscaped park features authentic Dutch architecture, an antique Dutch windmill, and gardens with over a hundred thousand tulips. Finally, grab a bite at the Eighth Street Market Place, a food hall with numerous vendors offering local cuisine.
Top Five Places to See List
- House of Flavors, Ludington, MI
Start your road trip by stopping at House of Flavors, an iconic ice cream parlor in Ludington, Michigan. The family-owned shop has been serving hand-dipped ice cream for decades and offers over 30 flavors, including some unique options like Blue Moon, Traverse Bay Cherry, and Mackinac Island Fudge. The shop's cozy setting and friendly staff make it a must-visit spot for anyone traveling through the area.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes, Empire, MI
A trip to Traverse City wouldn't be complete without visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, one of Michigan's most picturesque natural wonders. The dunes rise 450 feet above Lake Michigan, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Visitors can hike one of the many trails, swim in the lake, or take a scenic drive along the Pierce Stocking Drive. And don't forget to snap a photo at the famous Dune Climb, a popular spot for visitors to climb to the top and enjoy the view.
- Mackinac Island, MI
No trip to Northern Michigan is complete without a visit to Mackinac Island. This small, picturesque island is located in Lake Huron and is only accessible by ferry. Visitors can explore the island's historic downtown area, visit the Fort Mackinac, or go on a horse-drawn carriage tour. Be sure to grab a slice of the famous Mackinac Island Fudge or a freshly baked pasty while you're there.
- Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, Grand Rapids, MI
Located in Grand Rapids, Michigan, the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a must-see for art and nature enthusiasts. The 158-acre botanical garden features over 10,000 different plant species and numerous outdoor sculptures from renowned artists such as Rodin and Moore. Visitors can also explore the indoor conservatory, which houses tropical plants, a butterfly exhibit, and a 15-foot-tall waterfall.
- Cherry Republic, Glen Arbor, MI
No trip to Northern Michigan is complete without sampling some of the region's delicious cherries, and Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, Michigan, is the perfect place to do just that. The store offers an extensive selection of cherry-themed products, including jams, jellies, wines, and desserts. Visitors can also enjoy a slice of homemade cherry pie or a scoop of cherry-flavored ice cream while taking in the beautiful surrounding scenery.
Conclusion
Now that you've got your top five attractions list for a road trip from Chicago to Traverse City, the only thing left to do is make the journey itself. The best route is to take I-94 out of Chicago, then head north on I-196 towards Holland, MI. From there, take US-31 north towards Traverse City. The entire trip takes about five and a half hours, but with all the exciting stops along the way, it's worth taking your time and savoring the journey.