Traveling the Great Lakes Loop in a van is an excellent adventure, and there is no shortage of things to see and do. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your journey.
Best Places to Camp:
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan – This stunning park has campgrounds along the shoreline and is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin – With 21 islands, the park has plenty of opportunities for hiking, boating, and camping.
- Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan – This park has several campgrounds and is known for its sand dunes and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Presque Isle State Park, Pennsylvania – This park has several campgrounds and is located on a peninsula surrounded by Lake Erie.
- Ontario Parks, Ontario, Canada – Ontario has a variety of parks with campsites along the Great Lakes.
Best Places to RV:
- Grand Marais RV Park & Campground, Michigan – This campground has stunning views of Lake Superior and is located near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
- Sunset Bay RV Resort & Campground, New York – This RV resort is located on Lake Erie and has plenty of amenities, including a pool and boat launch.
- Big Bay State Park, Wisconsin – This park has campsites for RVs and is located on Madeline Island in Lake Superior.
- Ludington State Park, Michigan – This park has RV campsites and is located on Lake Michigan with several hiking trails and a lighthouse to explore.
Best Places to Eat:
- Tony’s Pizza in Munising, Michigan – This family-owned pizzeria has been a staple in the community for over 30 years and is known for its delicious pizzas.
- The Fisherman’s Wife in Bayfield, Wisconsin – This seafood restaurant is located on Lake Superior and is known for its fresh fish dishes.
- The Pancake House in Mackinaw City, Michigan – This restaurant is known for its fluffy pancakes and is a great spot for breakfast before heading out on the road.
- Frank’s Diner in Kenosha, Wisconsin – This classic diner has been around since 1926 and is known for its burgers and breakfast dishes.
Best Things to See and Do:
- Mackinac Island, Michigan – Take a ferry to this car-free island and explore its historic buildings and stunning views of Lake Huron.
- Niagara Falls, New York/Ontario, Canada – See the iconic waterfalls and take a boat tour to get up close and personal with the falls.
- Chicago, Illinois – Explore the Windy City’s museums, architecture, and food scene.
- Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan – Hike along the shoreline and see the colorful sandstone cliffs and waterfalls.
- Lake Superior Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada – This park has miles of hiking trails and stunning views of the largest of the Great Lakes.
