The Best Places to Visit on a trip between Belvidere, Illinois and Ypsilanti, Michigan

Are you planning a road trip between Illinois and Michigan and wondering where to drop by for a memorable experience? Here are the top five stops that you should consider making during your journey.

Belvidere is located in the north-central part of Illinois, while Ypsilanti is located in the southeastern part of Michigan. You can get to Ypsilanti from Belvidere by driving on I-90 East and I-94 East, approximately 250 miles. The journey can take around four to five hours, depending on traffic and driving speed.

1. Starved Rock State Park in Illinois

Starved Rock State Park in Utica is about an hour away from Belvidere. It's a great place to stop and take a break from driving or stretching your legs. This park has 13 miles of hiking trails with overlooks of the Illinois River for breathtaking views. The park also offers various day activities, such as horseback riding, fishing, and boating.

2. Lake Michigan in Milwaukee

Lake Michigan in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a perfect place to take a breath of fresh air and spend some time by the water. Milwaukee is around 130 miles from Belvidere and can take around a couple of hours. The lake offers a scenic drive and walking options as well. You may also stop at Discovery World or the Milwaukee Art Museum for some contemporary American art.

3. Ann Arbor in Michigan

Ann Arbor is about a 20-minute drive from Ypsilanti. It's a bustling town that is home to the University of Michigan. This town's unique feature is its beautiful architecture and natural surroundings, especially the Huron River. You may enjoy dining at Zingerman's Deli, exploring the University of Michigan Museum of Art or strolling through the Matthaei Botanical Gardens.

4. Greenfield Village in Dearborn

If you're interested in history, you can stop at the Greenfield Village in Dearborn, Michigan. The village is about 30 minutes from Ann Arbor by car. The village features 80 historic buildings, including the first factory which Henry Ford built before founding Ford Motor Company. You can also swing by the Ford Rouge Factory and Museum.

5. Detroit Institute of Arts in Detroit

Detroit Institute of Art is another must-visit attraction while in Michigan. The museum is around 30 minutes from Dearborn. The museum features an extensive collection of contemporary and ancient American and European artworks. A walk at the Detroit Riverfront and the Riverwalk Promenade can be relaxing after long museum hours.

Overall, this road trip is a fantastic opportunity to explore beautiful scenic routes, museums, and nature preserves. The stops between Illinois and Michigan have a mix of waterfronts, historical landmarks, and art halls that offer a pleasant break from driving and a chance to have a memorable experience.