3-Day Nature Itinerary in the Midwest United States - October Adventure

Day 1: Indiana Dunes

Chesterton, Indiana, USA

7:30 AM

Breakfast at Frankie's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Frankie's Cafe, famous for its Midwest classics like pancakes and breakfast burritos.
Head northeast to Indiana Dunes National Park after breakfast, a short 10-minute drive.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Hiking the Dune Succession Trail

Embark on the Dune Succession Trail, a fascinating hike where you can witness how ecosystems evolve over time while enjoying stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Follow the trail markers; the hike leads you within the park and returns back to a parking area.
Free, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Relax at West Beach

Unwind at West Beach, where you can enjoy some sun, sand, and the sound of the waves crashing against the shoreline.
Drive to West Beach parking lot, 5 minutes from the trail.
USD8, 2 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Shoreline Grill

Have lunch at Shoreline Grill, which offers delicious sandwiches and local craft beer with a view of the lake.
The restaurant is right at West Beach, so it's a convenient walk.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Bailly Homestead and Kankakee Inn

Revisit history by exploring the Bailly Homestead, where you can learn about early settlers and the area's natural ecosystems.
Drive 15 minutes to Bailly Homestead within the park.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Porterhouse

Round off your day with a delightful dinner at The Porterhouse, serving gourmet steaks and fresh seafood in a cozy atmosphere.
Head back toward Chesterton, a 15-minute drive.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Badlands Exploration

Badlands National Park, South Dakota, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Carrot Seed Kitchen Co.

Fuel up with a wholesome breakfast at The Carrot Seed, known for their fresh, farm-to-table dishes like avocado toast and quiche.
Drive 12 hours to Badlands; it’s best to start early to fit in some scenic stops on the way.
USD15, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Stop at Cedar Pass Lodge for lunch while enjoying the breathtaking views of eroded buttes and canyons.
Located conveniently within Badlands, after your journey you’ll drive straight to the lodge.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Hike the Notch Trail

Challenge yourself on the Notch Trail, a distinguished hike featuring a ladder climb and astonishing panoramic views.
Follow signs to Notch Trailhead from the lodge.
Free, 2 hours

5:00 PM

Scenic Drive through Badlands Loop Road

Experience the stunning landscape by driving the Badlands Loop Road, making stops at the overlooks for pictures.
Follow Badlands Loop Road; stops are clearly marked for easy navigation.
Free, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Wall Drug Store's Cafe

Enjoy a dining experience at the iconic Wall Drug Store’s Cafe, which offers a variety of American comfort food.
Drive 30 minutes to Wall Drug Store, a historic stop near the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Custer State Park Adventure

Custer, South Dakota, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Ruby's Cafe

Kickstart your day at Ruby's Cafe, known for its delectable breakfast specials and cozy vibe.
Take a quick 30-minute drive from Badlands to Custer State Park.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Wildlife Loop Road

Drive along Wildlife Loop Road looking for bison, pronghorn, and other wildlife, immersing yourself in the picturesque surroundings.
The Wildlife Loop entrance is accessible from the park road.
USD20, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Hike to Cathedral Spires

Hike the scenic Cathedral Spires Trail, leading you through ancient granite spires and offering fantastic photo spots.
Access the trailhead from the parking area off the Needles Highway.
Free, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at The Black Hills Burger and Bun Company

Refuel at The Black Hills Burger and Bun Company with their amazing locally sourced burgers and homemade buns.
Head back toward Custer, the restaurant is located centrally in town.
USD20, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Custer State Park Visitor Center

Stop by the Visitor Center to learn more about the park's ecosystem and pick up maps for further exploration.
It's a short drive back into the park; follow signs to the center.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Purple Pie Place

End your adventure with a delicious meal at The Purple Pie Place, sampling homemade pies that are the highlight of your trip.
Just a quick 10-minute drive from the Visitor Center.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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