Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago, Illinois and Birmingham, Michigan

Chicago and Birmingham are two popular midwestern cities with plenty to offer. Whether you are heading north from Birmingham or south from Chicago, you will find plenty of exciting attractions along the way. One of the highlights of the trip is the halfway point, Kalamazoo, Michigan. This charming city is home to historic architecture, outdoor activities, and museums.

Top 5 Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chicago to Birmingham

1. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and most renowned art museums in the country. With an expansive collection of over 300,000 works of art spanning 5,000 years, visitors can explore ancient artifacts, masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh and Claude Monet, and contemporary installations. An interesting fact is that the museum holds the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art outside of Paris.

2. Visit the Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village

The Henry Ford Museum is a large indoor and outdoor museum complex located in Dearborn, Michigan. It is home to historical artifacts including the Quadricycle, the first automobile that Henry Ford built in 1896. The Greenfield Village next door is a living history museum that features 80 acres of historic buildings and exhibits. Visitors can learn about Ford's life and legacy, and experience firsthand the developments in American innovation and ingenuity. An interesting fact is that Henry Ford collected artifacts from around the world to create a museum of human ingenuity and American progress.

3. Hike at Starved Rock State Park

Starved Rock State Park is a scenic park in Utica, Illinois, that boasts 13 miles of trails and 18 canyons to explore. Visitors can hike, picnic, and take in the breathtaking views of the Illinois River while learning about local history and geology. An interesting fact is that the park received its name from a legend of a Native American tribe who were said to have taken refuge on a rock formation and starved to death.

4. Tour the Mackinac Island Fudge Factory

Mackinac Island Fudge Factory is an old-fashioned candy store located in Mackinac Island, Michigan. Visitors can sample fudge made in front of their eyes, using the freshest ingredients. The fudge-making process is an art form in itself and the store prides itself on using high-quality ingredients. An interesting fact is that the store has been making fudge since 1887.

5. Take a boat tour of the Chicago River

A boat tour of the Chicago River provides a unique perspective of the city's architecture. Visitors can learn about the city's history and see iconic structures such as the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and Willis Tower. The river provides a picturesque backdrop for the city's towering skyscrapers. An interesting fact is that the river was once a cesspool of pollution but is now a thriving ecosystem that supports around 70 species of fish.

Conclusion

This road trip from Chicago to Birmingham takes approximately 10 hours with stops at each destination along the way. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or food, this trip has something to offer everyone. Visitors can explore world-class museums, hike through scenic parks, and indulge in delicious local treats. Kalamazoo makes for a charming halfway point with a variety of activities, including the Kalamazoo Institute of Arts and the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Start planning your midwestern adventure today!