THE CITIES OF THE Great Lakes
Straddling the USA and Canada is a region of great beauty: the Great Lakes. Holding a whopping 21% of the world’s surface fresh water, they are a natural wonder worth exploring. Along their shores, numerous metropolises rich in tourist and cultural interest beckon; among the most famous
Great Lakes cities worth discovering is Chicago, known worldwide, but other notable centers are equally worthy of attention.
The
Great Lakes region of the United States includes eight states: New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois, extending into Canada's Ontario. It’s here that the magnificent metropolises described, not to be missed destinations for a comprehensive understanding of the United States, are located.
Six must-visit Great Lakes cities
1) Chicago (Illinois)
In vibrant Chicago, bold architecture enchants visitors, with skyscrapers cutting into the blue sky to create a spectacular skyline.
Over 1,315 completed skyscrapers define the city's profile, many among the oldest in the United States. This Great Lakes city is famous for its street food, including the iconic deep-dish pizza, best enjoyed while exploring downtown streets or relaxing on the shores of Lake Michigan.
The Magnificent Mile, Chicago's shopping district, offers an array of luxury boutiques, unique restaurants, and antique shops; the metropolis is
abundant in events. Don’t miss comedy shows by the Second City improv group and Laugh Factory, and festivals like Lollapalooza, the Chicago Blues Festival, and the Windy City Smokeout, enlivening the city throughout the year.
2) Pittsburgh
Exploring the Great Lakes region of the United States, you'll encounter Pittsburgh. Characterized by
over 446 bridges spanning picturesque lakes, including Erie, Pittsburgh is known as the "City of Bridges," best enjoyed on foot or by bike. For cyclists, the Three Rivers Heritage Trail is a popular destination, winding through major historical sites along the banks.
Pittsburgh is a vibrant center for
sports enthusiasts, boasting one of America's best stadiums, arenas for hockey, and Highmark Stadium. For a dive into history, Point State Park with the Fort Pitt Museum is a must-see. Finally, for memorable photos, ascend the Duquesne Incline to appreciate panoramic views aboard a 19th-century funicular.
3) Cleveland (Ohio)
Cleveland, one of Ohio's largest cities, lies in the United States' Great Lakes region. Within its bounds, it boasts 93 square kilometers of parks and nature reserves to explore, alongside numerous sports events and excellent restaurants. The
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame pays tribute to the city's rich musical history and rock legends.
Culture lovers will appreciate art at the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Museum of Contemporary Art, while nature enthusiasts can visit the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo and the stunning Botanical Garden. And to end the day, Ohio City's vibrant food scene makes for the perfect close in this charming Great Lakes city.
Pittsburgh - Cleveland - Chicago
THE GREAT LAKES AND CITIES - PHOTO GALLERY
4) Detroit (Michigan)
Michigan's largest city, Detroit, is
nicknamed "Motor City" and famous for the Detroit Industry Murals painted by Diego Rivera, narrating the city's automotive industry history. It's also the primary setting for the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel “Middlesex,” where Eugenides recounts the protagonist's adventures working at one of Ford's early factories.
Downtown Detroit, one of the most fascinating Great Lakes cities, draws visitors with its diverse restaurants, parks, boutiques, shops, and the
beautiful lakeside walk along Lake Erie. Guests can try their luck at the casinos, delve into automobile history at the Ford House museum, or dance to the Detroit Jazz Festival's rhythm.
5) Indianapolis (Indiana)
The capital of Indiana, Indianapolis, located on Lake Michigan, is affectionately known as "Indy" or the
"Crossroads of America," thanks to its extensive interstate connections. Downtown’s Fountain Square is filled with restaurants and art galleries, offering numerous performances.
There are
many events that draw visitors, such as Hamilton at the Old National Centre, the Indy Film Fest at the Kan-Kan Cinema and Brasserie, and the OneAmerica Broad Ripple Art Fair at the Indianapolis Art Center. For sports fans, there are
three modern stadiums for basketball, baseball, and football.
6) Milwaukee
Among the Great Lakes cities, on the western shore of Lake Michigan, stands Milwaukee. Known as the
"Beer Capital of the World" for its vast selection of breweries and as "the Cream City" for its light-colored buildings, it uniquely charms with craft beer tasting, avant-garde architecture, and lake views.
Milwaukee is famous for its
music festivals: Summerfest, the world's largest outdoor music festival, the Juneteenth Day Festival, and the Mexican Fiesta celebrating Mexican culture. The city also offers culture and art, with the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the natural history museum, and the expansive Milwaukee Art Museum.
GREAT LAKES CITIES: THE MAP
Detroit - Indianapolis - Milwaukee
THE GREAT LAKES AND CITIES - PHOTO GALLERY
CHICAGO - WHAT TO DO AND SEE
TOURS - CRUISES - PASSES