Best Places to See When Driving From Aurora, Illinois to Gary, Indiana

Are you in Aurora, Illinois, and looking for an exciting place to visit on a weekend road trip? If so, why not take a drive to Gary, Indiana? It’s only a short distance, and there are so many things to see and do along the way.

In this post, we've compiled a list of the top places to stop and see when driving from Aurora, Illinois, to Gary, Indiana. Whether you're a nature lover, history enthusiast, or just looking for some family fun, we've got you covered. So, grab your friends, family, or partner and let's get started!

Explore the Great Outdoors at Chain O’Lakes State Park

Located between Antioch and McHenry, Chain O’Lakes State Park is the perfect stop for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. This 2,793-acre park is made up of 11 connected lakes and has miles of hiking and biking trails.

There are plenty of activities to engage in at Chain O’Lakes State Park, including fishing, boating, camping, and picnicking, making it an ideal place for a family day out. During the summer months, you can rent boats, paddleboards, kayaks, and canoes.

Learn About History at Illinois Beach State Park

Illinois Beach State Park is located along the Lake Michigan shoreline, just north of Waukegan. It spans over 4,160 acres and is divided into two sections: North Unit and South Unit.

One of the unique things about Illinois Beach State Park is that it has five miles of beachfront that has been left untouched by commercial development. History buffs would enjoy visiting the North unit of the park, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can learn about the park's history and take a tour of the historic Illinois Beach Resort and Conference Center, built-in 1922. The center has since been remodeled to include modern amenities, but you can still get a feel of the 1920s architecture.

Experience a Rural Escape at Indiana Dunes State Park

Located in Chesterton, Indiana, Indiana Dunes State Park is a 2,182-acre park that sits on the coast of Lake Michigan. The park's main attraction is a 3-mile-long beach that has beautiful clear water and white sand.

The park is also home to the world's most extensive freshwater dune ecosystem, which includes forests, wetlands, and a variety of wildlife. You can hike the trails and be amazed by the views from Mount Tom, the park's highest dune.

During the summer months, you can rent beach chairs, boats, and kayaks. There is also camping available, and the park has plenty of pet-friendly areas.

Take a Refreshing Break at Lemon Lake County Park

Lemon Lake County Park is located in Crown Point, Indiana, and boasts over 400 acres of beautiful landscapes and scenic beauty. The park has 3 lakes, various trails, picnic areas, playgrounds, and even a mountain bike trail for cycling enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Lemon Lake County Park is the Splash Pad. The Splash Pad is a feature that both kids and adults will enjoy. It has a variety of water-themed activities, including water cannons, a wading pool, and a relaxing lazy river.

Visit the Michael Jackson Family Home

Gary, Indiana, is a city with a rich musical heritage, and that is showcased in the Michael Jackson Family Home. The Michael Jackson Family Home is where the famous Jackson family grew up and the place that Michael practiced his dance moves.

Visitors can take a tour of the two-story house, which was purchased by the Jackson’s in 1950. The tour of the house includes viewing the bedroom suites, living room areas, and family photos.

After touring the house, visitors can take a trip to the Michael Jackson Memorial, which has become a shrine since the singer's death in 2009.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from Aurora, Illinois, to Gary, Indiana, is a fun and exciting trip, and there is so much to see and do along the way. Whether you’re into nature, history, or music, there’s something for everyone.

We hope that our list of the top places to visit has helped you plan your next road trip. Make sure to bring your camera and capture the memories that you will make along the way. Happy travels!