Category: Great Lakes USA

GREAT LAKES USA

I am honored to be Chair of Great Lakes USA, and to welcome you to such a special part of the United States.
Great Lakes USA is a collection of eight beautiful and unique states, each with so much to offer travellers from all around the globe. Whether you’re looking for a fly/drive outdoor adventure, a luxurious cruise or something completely off the beaten path, you’ll find it in this magical region.

While every state is different, there is one natural gem that connects us all: water. The great lakes.
These five lakes collectively span 246,463 square kilometres, making it the largest body of fresh water on the planet. And these aren’t just any lakes. These are lakes that feel more like oceans. Ones that breathe life into the region, offering new worlds to explore.

In Illinois, you have the great city of Chicago overlooking the beautiful shore of Lake Michigan. The rest of Illinois features a multitude of gorgeous settings to lose yourself in, including over 60 state parks to enjoy the wonder of every season.
Indiana’s 20+ state parks each offer their own unique landscape, from sand dunes to canyons, caves and especially the majestic waterfalls of the state’s crown jewel, Turkey Run State Park.

Michigan boasts three national forests, two national parks, two national lakeshores, and 100 state parks, including Isle Royale, the least visited national park in all of the United States.

Minnesota, the land of 10,000 lakes, gives new meaning to the great outdoors with its plethora of pristine bodies of water and natural sites that invite adventurers into the wilderness.

The northern part of Ohio stretches along the coast of Lake Erie, and about 60 minutes west of Cleveland you can ferry across the lake to Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island. Often called the “Key West of the North,” Put-in-Bay is known for lively entertainment, historic sites and breathtaking water views.

Pennsylvania features the old-growth hemlocks of the North, the rolling countryside of the South, millions of acres of public land and the fabled city of Philadelphia, where visitors will find a trove of American history sites.
In New York more amazing water views can be found in the great city of Buffalo which sits on the eastern end of Lake Erie. Here, you’ll find a remarkable arts, music and architecture scene filled with good food and friendly people.

When you visit Wisconsin, you’re entering “America’s Playground.” It’s surrounded by water on three sides and over half the state is forested, allowing you to get the absolute most out of outdoor activities.

I could go on and on about the amazing things that await – but instead, I’ll extend a personal invitation for you to see for yourself. Exploring the Great Lakes region is a great opportunity to slow down, stay awhile, and savor all the diverse experiences this region has to offer.

Enjoy greatness in our regions.

Best,
Lauren Bennett-McGinty,
Great Lakes Chair & Executive Director,
Explore Minnesota

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