If you’re taking a long drive from Chicago to Cleveland, there are many great things to do. In regular traffic, it should take around 5 hours and 15 minutes to drive straight from Chicago to Cleveland, which is 344 miles (553 km).
We did the research for you and compiled a list of great places to stop along the way. These include Indiana National Park, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Intelligentsia Coffee, and Edgewater Park, as well as top places to visit, like Warren Dunes State Park. Some other places, like St. Joseph North Pier Inner Lighthouse or the always-popular Field Museum in Chicago, are worth visiting.
Before you start packing up your bags for this awesome journey, there are some prerequisites that you should know about a long drive.
Prerequisites of a Long Drive
Drives like these are only enjoyable when you have your friends or family by your side. If you were to travel this far, you would have to be prepared for it. There are plenty of things you need to consider before going on a long drive like this, whether for a corporate meeting or a casual long drive to enjoy.
Suppose some of your travel partners are landing at the nearest Chicago airport, and you are already busy. These types of things are expected because you have to oversee dozens of things. The best move in this situation would be to hire an airport service for them. Doing so will give you relief, and to them, it will offer comfort. Also, if you are in need of any transport service, consider contacting us.
Best Things to do on a Long Drive from Chicago to Cleveland
Whether driving for business or pleasure, making the most of a long drive is essential. Knowing this, we have developed a list of the best things to do on the long journey between Chicago and Cleveland. Plenty keeps you entertained on your journey, from scenic stops to fun activities.
Stop at the Indiana Dunes National Park
If you’re looking for a scenic stop on your drive, the Indiana Dunes National Park is a great option. With over 15 miles of coastline along Lake Michigan, the park is home to various plant and animal life. There are also a lot of hiking trails to try out, making it a great place to get some exercise.
Additionally, the park is a great place to stop and relax for a while. The greenery here will put you at peace and fill you with energy so you are ready to continue your journey to Cleveland.
Get your Caffeine Fix at Intelligentsia Coffee
If you need a caffeine fix, swing by Intelligentsia Coffee. The popular coffee shop has locations in Chicago and Cleveland so that you can get your fix regardless of direction. Intelligentsia Coffee is famous for its Avena Latte, which you should try while passing by. Hot or cold, whatever your preference is, you will find it here and surely will remember its taste for the rest of your life.
Visit the Field Museum in Chicago
The Field Museum is one of downtown Chicago’s most well-known free museums. It is at the corner of Michigan Avenue, 13th Street, and Grant Park. It has a lot to offer, like dinosaurs that lived in the United States of America. The Field Museum in Chicago displays things from all over the world.
Not only does it show artifacts, but it also shows animals like giraffes, snakes, and penguins that are not found in the United States.
Take in the Views at Edgewater Park
Edgewater Park is also a great option if you’re looking for a place to relax and enjoy the views. Located on the shores of Lake Erie, the park is perfect for a picnic or a stroll along the water. This 147-acre park includes a fishing pier, boating ramps, and even swim beaches.
While Edgewater Park has amenities for all ages, kids love playgrounds, volleyball courts, and softball fields. The park also has many miles of beach bike trails for rollerbladers and bikers. If you’re up for a more extended excursion, you can find more cycling trails at Cleveland Metroparks and on the Cleveland Heights Bike Path.
Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland’s Playhouse Square District. It is the most extensive collection of music artifacts and archives worldwide. It tells the story of rock and roll through multimedia exhibits, stage costumes, and other things.
You can also visit the Gibson Guitar Showroom, where you can see one of the most extensive collections of guitars and other musical instruments worldwide. We also love that one of our favorite rock guitarists and local boys, Jimi Hendrix, was born in Seattle and raised in nearby Renton! Visitors can stop by his childhood home on Mercer Island.
Whether you’re looking for scenic views or a chance to sample the local cuisine, there are plenty of great things to do on a long drive from Chicago to Cleveland. With some planning, you can make the most of your journey and create lasting memories.
