In the fall of 2017, I embarked on a 10-day trip from Wisconsin → Detroit → Toronto → Montreal and back home. To this day, it was easily my most life-changing trip (so far). There’s just nothing that’ll change you like travel, especially solo travel.
Since this was my first solo international trip, I was ready to step outside of my comfort zone, but not too far. Enter: Canada. 🇨🇦
Up until this point, I had never been to Canada. And I’m all about budget-friendly trips so I began mapping out a 10-day road trip, booking hostels and short-term rentals along the way. Spoiler: I had the most amazing time. Buckle up, let’s hit the road!
The itinerary:
Day 1: Wisconsin to Detroit
Drive time: 6.5 hours
Detroit doesn’t always have the best reputation but to be honest, I loved my time here. The Motor City has a lot to offer from the Detroit Institute of Arts and its world-renowned collection of art pieces to the historic Corktown neighborhood and the Michigan Central Station. For car enthusiasts, the Ford Piquette Avenue Plant, where the Model T was first assembled, is a must-see.
Days 3-4: Detroit to Niagara Falls
Drive time: 4 hours
From Detroit, I began making my way to the iconic Niagara Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. I bought a ticket to ride the Maid of the Mist (named appropriately…lots of mist). If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on the historic Whirlpool Aero Car for unforgettable views of the Niagara Gorge.
Days 4-5: Niagara Falls to Toronto
Drive time: 1 hour
The next stop on my road trip: Toronto, Canada’s largest city! Take a stroll through the vibrant neighborhoods of Kensington Market, Chinatown, and the Distillery District, or head to the top of the CN Tower for a panoramic view of the city. I also suggest visiting the Royal Ontario Museum, which has a phenomenal collection of world culture and natural history artifacts (and even several Wisconsin exhibits!).
Days 5-7: Toronto to Montreal
Drive time: 5.5 hours
Oh man, I had very high expectations for Montreal and this city did not disappoint. There’s just so much to love from the delicious poutine to the stunning Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal. This is where my road trip felt the most surreal: It’s hard to believe you’re in North America when you’re in Montreal. It felt strange that I had driven to this city that just seems otherworldly to me. It looks and feels so European thanks to the beautiful blend of French and English cultures. Make sure you visit Old Montreal, which is home to countless historic buildings, cafes, and restaurants, and I highly recommend signing up for a walking food tour!
Days 7-8: Montreal to Algonquin Highlands
Drive time: 5 hours
It’s time for the outdoorsy leg of my road trip! Located about three hours from Toronto, Algonquin Provincial Park is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, breathtaking landscapes, and diverse range of wildlife. You have two options (and may I suggest embarking on both):
Scenic Drives: Algonquin Park has a number of scenic drives that take you through picturesque forests and past stunning lakes, offering breathtaking views of the park’s natural beauty. Highway 60 is the most popular drive in the park.
Hiking: With over 2,400 lakes, Algonquin offers some of the best hiking trails in Canada. The park boasts over 19 different hiking trails of varying lengths and difficulties, including the breathtaking lookout trail and the difficult but so-worth-it Centennial Ridges Trail.
Day 9: Algonquin Highlights to Upper Peninsula of Michigan
Drive time: 9 hours
My main pit stop while driving through the UP of Michigan was Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Alger County. This 42-mile stretch of Lake Superior shoreline is famous for its towering sandstone cliffs, waterfalls, and colorful rock formations. Visitors can take boat tours or hike along the shoreline to explore the park’s natural beauty.
Day 10: Back home to Wisconsin
Drive time: 6 hours
It was home sweet home for me on day 10!
What was the best road trip you ever embarked on?
