Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Beaverton, Oregon to Grand Rapids, Michigan

A road trip from Beaverton, Oregon to Grand Rapids, Michigan is no small feat, but it can be an incredible adventure filled with natural beauty, history, and unforgettable experiences. One of the highlights is the halfway point, Burns, Wyoming, where travelers can rest, refuel, and enjoy a small-town atmosphere. Here are the top five things to do on this road trip, each with interesting facts about the location.

Visit Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, the oldest national park in the United States, should be on every road tripper's itinerary. Located in Wyoming, it offers stunning geysers, hot springs, waterfalls, and wildlife, with nearly 3,500 square miles to explore. From Beaverton, it's a 13-hour drive, but the journey is worth it for the breathtaking views and natural wonders.

Interesting fact: Yellowstone National Park is home to the largest active geyser in the world, Steamboat Geyser, which can erupt up to 300 feet high.

See Mount Rushmore

Another iconic American landmark, Mount Rushmore, is located in South Dakota, about 6 hours east of Yellowstone National Park. The massive sculpture of four US presidents' faces carved into the granite mountain is awe-inspiring and a testament to American history. Visitors can take a tour, hike the nature trails, and learn about the construction of the monument.

Interesting fact: Mount Rushmore was created by sculptor Gutzon Borglum and his team, who had to overcome many obstacles and challenges, including harsh weather and funding issues.

Explore Chicago

About 3 hours east of Grand Rapids, Michigan lies Chicago, Illinois, one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the country. From the famous deep-dish pizza to the world-class museums and architecture, Chicago has something for everyone. Visitors can walk along the Magnificent Mile, take a river cruise, visit the Art Institute of Chicago, and see the Cloud Gate sculpture, aka "The Bean."

Interesting fact: Chicago is known as the birthplace of the skyscraper, with the Home Insurance Building in 1884, considered the first skyscraper in the world.

Visit Niagara Falls

Located about 8 hours northeast of Grand Rapids, Michigan, Niagara Falls is one of the most impressive natural wonders in North America. The three waterfalls, Horseshoe Falls, American Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls, offer a spectacular sight, with millions of gallons of water rushing over them every minute. Visitors can take a boat tour, walk behind the falls, and enjoy the nearby attractions, such as the Niagara Parks Butterfly Conservatory and the Niagara SkyWheel.

Interesting fact: Niagara Falls is not the highest or the widest waterfall in the world, but it has the highest flow rate of any waterfall, with an average of 750,000 gallons per second.

Discover Mackinac Island

Last but not least, Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron, Michigan, is a gem of the Great Lakes region and a perfect end to the road trip. Visitors can take a ferry to the car-free island and enjoy its Victorian charm, stunning views, and outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. The island is also famous for its fudge, with several shops offering delicious flavors and varieties.

Interesting fact: Mackinac Island has a unique tradition of the "Grand Hotel Circuit," where wealthy families and socialites used to spend their summers in elegant hotels, attending parties and events for weeks on end.

In conclusion, a road trip from Beaverton, Oregon, to Grand Rapids, Michigan, offers a rich and diverse experience of natural wonders, historical landmarks, and cultural highlights. With about 40 hours of driving time and numerous opportunities for sightseeing, it's a journey that can be tailored to individual preferences and interests. Whether it's Yellowstone National Park, Mount Rushmore, Chicago, Niagara Falls, or Mackinac Island, each destination has its unique charm and significance, making the road trip an unforgettable adventure.