A Scenic Drive from Calgary, Alberta to Royal Oak, Michigan: Five Unexpected Places to Stop
Many people embark on long drives to explore new places, visit family and friends, or simply enjoy the scenery along the way. If you're planning a road trip from Calgary, Alberta to Royal Oak, Michigan, there are plenty of interesting and unexpected places to stop and explore. This 2,350-mile journey will take approximately 35 hours. Here are five of the most unique and worthwhile destinations along the way.
1. Glyndon, MN: Halfway to Your Destination
Glyndon, MN is situated about halfway between Calgary and Royal Oak, making it the perfect place to stop for a break. This small town has a population of just over 1,300 people and is known for its rich history and charming atmosphere. One must-see attraction in Glyndon is the historic village, which contains a variety of restored buildings including an old schoolhouse, jail, church, and blacksmith shop.
Favorite food: Wild turkey burger at The Rusty Spur
2. Sioux Falls, SD: A Waterfall in the City
Sioux Falls, located about 160 miles east of Glyndon, is home to one of the most impressive waterfalls in the Midwest. Falls Park is a 123-acre park that features the stunning Sioux Falls, as well as several other cascades and rapids. The park also contains a visitor center, an observation tower, and a free parking lot. In addition to the waterfall, there are several other attractions in Sioux Falls worth checking out, including the SculptureWalk, the Great Plains Zoo, and the Washington Pavilion.
Favorite food: Bison burger at JL Beers
3. Indianapolis, IN: A City Filled with Culture and History
At the halfway point between Sioux Falls and Royal Oak, you'll find Indianapolis, a city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. This city boasts a variety of attractions, including the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indianapolis Zoo, and the Children's Museum of Indianapolis. Another noteworthy destination is the Indianapolis Museum of Art, which features a stunning collection of over 54,000 works of art from around the world. Whether you're interested in history, science, or art, Indianapolis has something for everyone.
Favorite food: Breaded pork tenderloin sandwich at Workingman's Friend
4. Cleveland, OH: A City on the Rise
Located about 175 miles east of Indianapolis, Cleveland is a city that has been experiencing a renaissance in recent years. The city features a thriving arts and culture scene, with several world-class museums and performing arts venues. Some of the top attractions in Cleveland include the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the West Side Market. Don't miss out on a chance to try some of the city's signature cuisine, including pierogis, corned beef sandwiches, and craft beer.
Favorite food: Stadium mustard on a hot dog at Progressive Field
5. Ann Arbor, MI: A College Town with a Bohemian Vibe
Ann Arbor, located just 40 miles west of Royal Oak, is a vibrant college town with a laid-back and creative atmosphere. The city is home to the University of Michigan, which has a beautiful campus and several world-renowned academic programs. Ann Arbor is also known for its eclectic food scene, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from vegan cuisine to Korean barbecue. Be sure to check out the Ann Arbor Farmers Market, which is open year-round and features locally grown produce, artisanal goods, and live music.
Favorite food: Zingerman's Reuben sandwich
Whether you're interested in natural scenery, history and culture, or simply good food, this road trip has something for everyone. From the beautiful falls of Sioux Falls to the thriving city of Cleveland, there are so many unique and unexpected places to discover along the way. If you're looking for a memorable and adventurous journey, consider embarking on a road trip from Calgary to Royal Oak. You won't regret it.