Chicago 7-Day Nature Adventure Road Trip

Day 1: Exploring Local Nature

Chicago, IL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe, known for their mouthwatering pancakes and unique syrup selection.
Head to Starved Rock State Park by car (approximately 1.5 hours drive)
USD 20, 2 hours

12:00PM

Hiking at Starved Rock State Park

Embark on a scenic hike through the canyons and waterfalls of Starved Rock State Park, surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
Drive to Forest Preserve District of Cook County (around 2 hours drive)
USD 0, 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Vie Restaurant

Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at Vie Restaurant, offering a seasonal menu with locally sourced ingredients.
Check into a local accommodation for the night.
USD 50, 2 hours
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Day 2: Beach Day at Indiana Dunes

Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

9:00AM

Breakfast at Third Coast Cafe

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast at Third Coast Cafe before heading to the beach for a day of relaxation and exploration.
Drive to Indiana Dunes National Park (approximately 1 hour drive)
USD 15, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Beach Time at Indiana Dunes National Park

Spend the day soaking up the sun, swimming in Lake Michigan, and hiking the scenic trails of Indiana Dunes National Park.
Depart for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (around 3 hours drive)
USD 0, 6 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Miller Bakery Cafe

Indulge in a delicious dinner at Miller Bakery Cafe, known for its seafood dishes and waterfront views.
Check into a local accommodation for the night.
USD 40, 2 hours
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Day 3: Lakefront and Sand Dunes

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, MI

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cove Restaurant

Start your day with a lovely breakfast at The Cove Restaurant, offering stunning views of Lake Michigan and delicious morning dishes.
Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (full day)
USD 10, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Blu Moon Bistro

Enjoy a cozy dinner at Blu Moon Bistro, known for its creative dishes and warm ambiance.
Head towards Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (around 5 hours drive)
USD 45, 6 hours
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Day 4: Cliffs and Waterfalls

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, MI

9:00AM

Breakfast at Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore

Grab breakfast at Falling Rock Cafe & Bookstore, a charming spot offering tasty pastries and artisan coffee.
Explore the stunning cliffs and waterfalls of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore (full day)
USD 0, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lake Superior Brewing Co.

Relax and enjoy dinner at Lake Superior Brewing Co., where you can savor locally brewed beers and classic pub fare.
Check into a local accommodation for the night.
USD 35, 2 hours
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Day 5: Wilderness Adventure

Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park, MI

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pines Cafe & Gift Shop

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Pines Cafe & Gift Shop, known for their delicious omelets and cozy atmosphere.
Explore the wilderness and hiking trails of Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park (full day)
USD 0, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Syl's Cafe

Enjoy a comforting dinner at Syl's Cafe, a local favorite offering homestyle dishes and friendly service.
Drive to Turtle-Flambeau Flowage (approximately 4 hours drive)
USD 30, 4 hours
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Day 6: Lakeside Serenity

Turtle-Flambeau Flowage, WI

9:00AM

Breakfast at Raven's Nest

Enjoy breakfast with a view at Raven's Nest, a cozy spot overlooking the serene waters of Turtle-Flambeau Flowage.
Relax by the lakeside, go fishing, or take a boat tour (full day)
USD 20, 6 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Pier Steakhouse

Indulge in a delicious steak dinner at The Pier Steakhouse, known for their mouthwatering cuts and lakefront dining experience.
Check into a local accommodation for the night.
USD 50, 2 hours
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Day 7: Return to City Life

Chicago, IL

10:00AM

Brunch at Yolk

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Yolk, a popular spot for delicious breakfast and brunch options.
Drive back to Chicago (approximately 5 hours drive)
USD 20, 5 hours

4:00PM

Explore Millennium Park

Spend the afternoon exploring Millennium Park in the heart of Chicago, home to iconic attractions such as the Cloud Gate sculpture.
End your day back in Chicago, reminiscing about your nature adventure.
USD 0, 3 hours
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