If you’ve ever driven through the Midwest, you already know that it’s a trove of rolling plains, quaint towns, and Great Lake shorelines. In other words, the perfect recipe for a scenic road trip!
Together with the Toyota bZ4X, we’re giving our Secret readers the ultimate Chicago to Detroit road trip route featuring scenic wonders that are secrets worth sharing…just like the Toyota bZ4X, Toyota’s first all-electric vehicle! And with our interactive Toyota bZ4X map, you can discover even more scenic destinations, along with nearby charging stations for your electric vehicle.
Buckle up and get ready for a scenic journey through America’s Heartland!
Starting Point: Chicago
Your adventure begins right here in the Windy City. From towering skyscrapers to the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan, there’s no shortage of Chicago sights to explore ahead of your scenic Midwest journey. Here are some of our favorite things to check out before hitting the road with your Toyota bZ4X:
- Millennium Park
- Architectural Boat Tour
- Chicago Riverwalk
First Stop: New Buffalo Beach
A short drive from Chicago brings you to your first stop, the charming lakeside town of New Buffalo, MI. Its pristine beach marks the beginning of nearly 16 continuous miles of soft sands, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxing escape that’s ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or picnicking by the lake. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a climb down the rock jetty: a walkable stretch of rocks surrounded by panoramic water views and the distant city skyline. You’ll feel as though you’re in the middle of the lake!
Second Stop: Kalamazoo, MI
Next up is the delightful town of Kalamazoo, MI. Here you’ll find no shortage of local parks to explore, along with the sprawling campus of Kalamazoo College. Be sure to check out these scenic Kalamazoo attractions during your visit:
Third Stop: Marshall, MI
Marshall, MI, with its late 19th- and early 20th-century architectural beauty, offers a charming taste of Midwest history. Here, you can take a break and charge your Toyota bZ4X while you get out and explore the town’s many parks and nostalgic landmarks. Find serenity in the Marshall Riverwalk, a boardwalk that will lead you down a tranquil path of forested and swampy areas, or go birdwatching at the Brooks Nature Area, where you can immerse yourself in over 180 acres of diverse natural habitat before getting back on the road.
Fourth Stop: Hidden Lake Gardens
Michigan State University’s arboretum is home to your next stop, Hidden Lake Gardens. Expansive botanical gardens, picturesque walking trails, a bonsai courtyard, and more await at this Tipton, MI gem. But the standout is perhaps its breathtaking canopy walk: a fully immersive walkway among the trees which transforms with each season. And if you’re short on time, no problem! You can drive through Hidden Lake Gardens for a quick yet stunning experience. If you spot a mysterious figure down in the trees, don’t panic—it’s probably the cut-out Sasquatch. Or is it? Only one way to find out!
Fifth Stop: Ann Arbor, MI
This lively college town, most known for the University of Michigan, boasts a thriving arts and culture scene and is the last scenic stop before reaching your destination. Don’t miss the Nichols Arboretum (known locally as “the Arb”), a natural attraction located next to the Huron River which houses over 110 species of trees, specialty gardens, and diverse wildlife. Ann Arbor truly has something for everyone, but these are its scenic standouts:
Destination: Detroit, MI
Conclude your journey in Detroit, where rich history and a vibrant art scene meet unbeatable waterfront views along the Detroit River. Catch the city’s best sunset at Belle Isle Park, then take a nighttime stroll along an iconic three-and-a-half-long greenway along the river. Don’t miss these scenic Motor City spots during your stay:
About the Toyota bZ4X
Thanks to the Toyota bZ4X, your Midwest road trip will be as comfortable as it is memorable. The trusted brand’s all-electric SUV is designed to traverse different types of terrain, making it perfect for exploring all the scenic beauty throughout the region. Plus, it has a variety of features designed to make your drive as smooth as possible, from capable battery efficiency to rain-sensing wipers, a power sunshade that spans across the roof, and more.