A road trip through the USA is one of the most unforgettable adventures for many travelers – the freedom of the open road, vast landscapes, and unexpected discoveries off the beaten track. This page collects all of miles-around's road trip articles: personal, first-hand travelogues that reveal what awaits travelers beyond the well-known metropolises.
The focus is on a road trip through the American Midwest: from Chicago via the Tulip Festival in Holland, Michigan, the picturesque Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Traverse City wine region, and the Old Mission Peninsula to Detroit and Ann Arbor – and finally on to Toronto via Niagara Falls. The reports are aimed at couples and families who want to discover the USA beyond New York and Los Angeles and plan their own Midwestern road trip.
After an eventful time in Toronto, we set off in the early afternoon for one of North America's greatest natural wonders – Niagara Falls. Although the journey is only about 130 kilometers, it took us almost two hours. Heavy Sunday traffic and the upcoming Victoria Day – a Canadian holiday – made the roads very busy.
Our day in Toronto began with bad weather, as the forecast had predicted. The view out the window showed low-hanging clouds, rain, and wind—not ideal conditions for exploring the city. We spontaneously changed our plans and decided to spend the day indoors.
On our road trip through the Midwest of the USA, a stop in Detroit, the "Motor City", was of course a must. Detroit is a city full of contrasts that fascinates with its lively art scene, historic architecture and exciting history. Just around the corner is Ann Arbor, a charming university town with cosy cafés, independent bookshops and green parks.
Our journey continues through Michigan's picturesque landscapes, from the charming seaside town of Traverse City to the cultural and culinary treasures of Frankenmuth and the shopping opportunities of Birch Run. Experience the incredible diversity of this region, from the gentle waves of Lake Michigan to the German half-timbered houses and vibrant outlet centres. Join us on our amazing road trip through the breathtaking Great Lakes State!
Our second day in Traverse City got off to a very leisurely start and we didn't set off on our tour until around 10.00 am. We drove to the Old Mission Peninsula, a headland that juts out into Grand Travers Bay.
In the second part of our road trip through the American Midwest, we continued north into Michigan. Our destination for the day was the Sleeping Bear Dunes near Traverse City, also known as the "Cherry Capital." This leg of our journey was very special to us, as we have very personal memories associated with this region.
After two eventful days in Chicago, we now start our road trip through the Midwest of the USA. Our first destination was the city of Cadillac in the state of Michigan. On the way we visited the biggest tulip festival in Holland. What else we visited, you will find out in the following article.