Top Places to See When Driving From Benton Harbor, Michigan to Cave Creek, Arizona

Are you planning a road trip from Benton Harbor, Michigan to Cave Creek, Arizona? This journey promises to be an interesting one, offering travelers a mix of scenic landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Whether you're traveling with friends, family or alone, there are plenty of sights and experiences to enjoy along the way. To help you make the most of your trip, we've compiled a list of the top places to see when driving from Benton Harbor, Michigan to Cave Creek, Arizona.

Exploring Benton Harbor

Benton Harbor is a small city situated on the shore of Lake Michigan. It is known for its beautiful beaches, quaint downtown area and historic sites. Before hitting the road, be sure to explore this charming city. Some of the top sights to see in Benton Harbor are:

1. Silver Beach County Park: One of Michigan's most popular beaches. It offers beautiful shoreline access and a wide range of activities for the whole family, including a carousel, water playground, and volleyball courts. The park is also home to the Silver Beach Amusement Park Museum, which displays artifacts from the former amusement park that once stood on the site.

2. The North Shore Country Club: Located on the north shore of Lake Michigan, this historic golf course was designed by the famous golf course architect Donald Ross. The course has been played by many famous golfers over the years, including Walter Hagen, Gene Sarazen, and Ben Hogan.

3. The Benton Harbor Arts District: This vibrant neighborhood is home to many galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Be sure to check out the Krasl Art Center, which features an impressive collection of contemporary art and offers classes and workshops for all ages.

4. The Morton House Museum: This historic home was built in the early 1900s by Harriet Morton, the daughter of a wealthy Chicago businessman. The home has been restored to its original condition, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the area.

5. The House of David Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of the House of David religious community, which was founded in Benton Harbor in the early 1900s. The museum features exhibits on the group's history, as well as artifacts from its famous amusement park.

Discovering the Midwest

As you leave Benton Harbor, you'll enter the Midwest region of the United States. This vast area is characterized by rolling hills, expansive farmland and vibrant cities. Make sure you take the time to explore some of the Midwest's top sights, which include:

1. Chicago, Illinois: One of the most vibrant cities in the United States, Chicago is known for its impressive skyline, world-class museums, and thriving food scene. Be sure to check out the Art Institute of Chicago, the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), and the Navy Pier.

2. The Gateway Arch, St. Louis, Missouri: This iconic monument is a symbol of America's westward expansion. Visitors can take a tram ride to the top for a stunning view of the city and the Mississippi River.

3. The Louisville Slugger Museum, Louisville, Kentucky: Baseball fans won't want to miss a visit to this museum, which tells the story of the Louisville Slugger, one of the most famous baseball bats in history. Visitors can even take a tour of the factory where the bats are made.

4. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland, Ohio: Music lovers won't want to miss a visit to this museum, which celebrates the history of rock and roll. The museum features exhibits on famous musicians and bands, as well as interactive displays and live performances.

5. The Mackinac Bridge, Mackinaw City, Michigan: This impressive suspension bridge spans the Straits of Mackinac, connecting the upper and lower peninsulas of Michigan. The bridge is over five miles long and offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron.

Embracing the Southwest

As you get closer to Cave Creek, you'll start to experience the sights and sounds of the Southwest. This region is known for its impressive natural landscapes, vibrant culture, and rich history. Be sure to explore some of the Southwest's top sights, which include:

1. The Grand Canyon, Arizona: One of the most impressive natural wonders in the world, the Grand Canyon offers stunning views, hiking trails, and a chance to experience the beauty of the Southwest up close.

2. The Petrified Forest National Park, Arizona: This unique park is home to some of the world's largest and most colorful petrified wood deposits. Visitors can take a hike through the park's stunning landscapes, which include large rock formations and unique fossil deposits.

3. The Phoenix Art Museum, Phoenix, Arizona: This museum is home to an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as a wide range of exhibitions and events.

4. Sedona, Arizona: Known for its stunning red rock landscapes and vibrant culture, Sedona is a must-visit destination for any Southwest road trip. Visitors can explore the town's many art galleries, take a hike through the nearby landscapes, or simply relax and take in the stunning views.

5. Cave Creek Regional Park, Arizona: This beautiful park is home to over 2,000 acres of stunning desert landscapes, hiking trails, and local wildlife. Visitors can take a hike through the park's rugged terrain, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and take in the beautiful surroundings.

Conclusion

Driving from Benton Harbor, Michigan to Cave Creek, Arizona is an unforgettable experience that offers a mix of stunning natural landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover or a foodie, this road trip has something for everyone. Be sure to take the time to explore these top sights along the way, and to embrace the unique beauty and culture of the Midwest and Southwest regions of the United States.