Top Five Popular Attractions to See on a Trip Between Carpentersville, Illinois and Shelby Charter Township, Michigan
Are you ready for an adventure? A road trip from Carpentersville, Illinois to Shelby Charter Township, Michigan, is an excellent way to explore some of the most beautiful and fascinating places in the region. From historic landmarks to scenic routes, there is something for everyone on this journey. Let's take a look at the top five popular attractions to see along the way.
Halfway Point: Mattawan, MI
Located right in the middle of the trip, Mattawan is the perfect place to take a break and stretch your legs. This charming small town has a lot to offer visitors, including a historic downtown area with shops, restaurants, and cafes. Don't miss the chance to visit Hilliards Chocolates, a local favorite that has been making delicious handmade chocolates for over 100 years. If you're traveling with kids, stop by the W.K. Kellogg Bird Sanctuary, a 180-acre wildlife preserve that is home to over 20 species of birds.
Top Five Places to See List
Starved Rock State Park - Just a short drive from Carpentersville, this 2,630-acre park is a natural wonderland that offers breathtaking views, waterfalls, hiking trails, and much more. Visitors can hike to the top of Starved Rock, an 125-foot sandstone butte surrounded by lush forests and valleys. Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat tour of the Illinois River to see the park from a different angle.
The Henry Ford Museum - Located in Dearborn, Michigan, this world-famous museum is an absolute must-see for history buffs, car enthusiasts, and anyone who loves Americana. Featuring over 26 million artifacts, including the Rosa Parks bus, the Lincoln Chair, and John F. Kennedy's limousine, visitors can spend hours exploring the exhibits and learning about the innovations and inventions that have shaped the modern world.
Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail - Wine lovers won't want to miss the chance to explore this scenic wine trail, which runs along the coast of Lake Michigan and winds through charming small towns like Saugatuck, South Haven, and St. Joseph. With over 20 wineries to choose from, visitors can taste a variety of wines, from crisp Rieslings to bold red blends. Don't forget to pick up a bottle or two to take home as a souvenir.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - A little bit off the beaten track but well worth the extra drive, this beautiful national park is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, swimming, and boating. One of the highlights of the park is the Sleeping Bear Dune, a massive sand dune that rises over 400 feet above the lake. Visitors can climb to the top for a stunning panoramic view that stretches for miles.
Mackinac Island - Located in the straits between Michigan's Upper and Lower Peninsulas, Mackinac Island is a picturesque island filled with Victorian architecture, charming shops, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can bike or hike around the island (no cars are allowed!), visit historic sites like Fort Mackinac and the Grand Hotel, or sample delicious fudge from one of the island's many candy shops.
Best Route
The best route for this trip is to take I-90 and I-94 through Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. From there, head north on US-131 toward Mattawan, where you can take a break and enjoy the local attractions. From Mattawan, continue north on US-131 to Kalamazoo, then follow I-94 east to Dearborn. After visiting the Henry Ford Museum, head north on I-75 to the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail. From there, continue north on US-31 to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Mackinac Island. Finally, head south on I-75 to Shelby Charter Township, where your journey will come to an end.
This road trip is an unforgettable experience that combines natural beauty, history, culture, and adventure. Whether you're traveling solo, with family, or with friends, there is something for everyone on this trip. So pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy the ride!