Top Road Trip Destinations from Addison to Griffith
Are you craving a weekend escape from Addison to Griffith that’s just beyond the city limits? Then pack your bags, fuel up the car and hit the road! You’ll encounter some of the Midwest’s most jaw-dropping scenery, delightful food, and cultural attractions – all that can be enjoyed on a leisurely day or weekend getaway.
From the shores of Lake Michigan to the depths of the Indiana Dunes, this route has everything a traveler could ask for. So, before you plan your road trip, check out our top picks of must-visit destinations from Addison to Griffith that won’t disappoint.
Buckle Up and Get Ready to drive
AURORA
Begin your road trip in Aurora, a charming and historic city on the banks of Fox River, located 30 miles west of downtown Chicago. Aurora is an excellent stop for anyone interested in art and architecture. Visit the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, the Aurora Public Art Commission, and the award-winning Paramount Theatre. For outdoor enthusiasts, head to Phillips Park Zoo, which houses over 100 animals and a mini-golf course. Don't forget to stop by the Hollywood Casino for some entertainment or the Fox Valley Mall for shopping before making your way towards your next destination.
HAMMOND
Once you leave Aurora, drive south for about 30 minutes to the city of Hammond in Lake County, Indiana. Hammond has plenty of history and attractions for visitors – it was once a bustling factory town and home to the big steel mills. A must-visit attraction is the Indiana Welcome Center, where you can learn everything about Lake County and the state. You'll also find the John Dillinger Museum dedicated to the notorious gangster – a unique spot to learn about the criminal history of Lake County, Indiana. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or shopping, Hammond has something for everyone.
GARY
As you continue your trip about 15 minutes east from Hammond, you’ll reach Gary, famous for its large steel mills. Although some mills closed down over the years, you can still catch a glimpse of this history on your drive-through. Gary is also home to the newly renovated Gary Railcats Stadium, where you can catch a minor league baseball game. Don't forget to visit the Marquette Park Pavilion and Beach for a relaxing walk or swim before continuing your journey.
The Top 5 Road Trip Destinations from Addison to Griffith
INDIANA DUNES
As you approach the Lake Michigan shoreline, you won’t want to miss visiting one the United States’ most stunning natural wonders, the Indiana Dunes. This National Park boasts over 15 miles of beaches and 2,000 acres of beautiful woods and marshes. Hiking, camping, bird-watching, and swimming are just some of the activities that visitors can enjoy at Indiana Dunes. The park is also home to plenty of wildlife, including black bears and sandhill cranes. For an unforgettable experience, you can’t beat a sunset hike on the beach – or a picnic on the dune.
CROWN POINT
Jump back in your car to travel about 20 minutes south along I-65 and head to Crown Point, Indiana, a quaint town, and a county seat with architectural landmarks dating back to the 1840s. The most famous attraction is the old Lake County Courthouse, which hosts a monthly classic car cruise. Crown Point is also a haven for shopping and dining with plenty of excellent choices to fit every taste. Make a stop at Bulldog Brewing or the Grindhouse Cafe where live music events are often held.
VALPARAISO
Located about 20 minutes south of Chesterton, the city of Valparaiso is a vibrant university town that has a small-town feel and unique attractions for visitors. Explore the downtown with its many quirky boutiques and antiques shops. Make your way to the Memorial Opera House, a restored Victorian-style landmark where you can catch music events, plays, and local theater. For taking a walk outdoors, head to Taltree Arboretum & Gardens, which boasts over 360 acres and features an old oak savanna, a working railway garden, and three distinct hiking routes.
MERRILLVILLE
Continue south-west down I-65 for about 15 minutes, and you’ll arrive at Merrillville – a bustling city, home to many businesses, including the famed Star Plaza Theatre. The theater is famous for hosting top-notch music and comedy acts and shows year-round. Merrillville is an excellent spot for foodies, as it's home to numerous restaurants, including Asparagus, Gamba's Ristorante and the Sand Creek Brewery.
GRIFFITH
Last but not least, your road trip will culminate at Griffith, Indiana – where you'll find plenty of entertainment options to end your trip on a high note. Griffith is well-known for its many annual festivals, including its popular Rock N' Rail Street Festival. The festival features live music, food vendors, and plenty of carnival rides and games for the whole family. If you love spending time outdoors, head to the popular Central Park, where you can find well-marked trails, a splash pad, and a beautiful lake.
Conclusion
There are so many unique destinations and landmarks to visit between Addison and Griffith; it's impossible to list them all. But we've rounded up some of the best attractions to see while driving, and we hope they'll inspire you to hit the road. From charming downtowns to stunning national parks, there's something for everyone along this route. Get ready for an incredible Midwestern adventure that will create cherished memories for years to come.