The first stop of the day is a place where a pop music legend was born. While you won't be able to go into the house, a quick photo opp outside of it puts into perspective that the King of Pop came from humble beginnings.

Established in 2010, this family-owned greasy spoon is a perfect stop for a hearty breakfast before hitting the road. Try the Italian Sausage with two eggs, a side of hash browns and a short stack of pancakes.
The cafe is closed on Saturday and Sunday

Known for the Main Building with its golden dome and, of course, its legendary athletics, a self-guided campus tour is the perfect way to stretch your legs and take in the beautiful sights of Notre Dame.
You are welcome to explore the campus on your own, there is an individual tour map on their website.

Clem Studebaker was the president of the Studebaker Corporation, the largest wagon manufacture in the world in the 1800s. As his socioeconomic status grew, he thought it would make the most sense for he and his family to live in a larger house that matched that growth. Over the course of three years, Studebaker build a mansion that was over 24,000 square feet.
Located within the iconic Tippecanoe Place mansion, this is where opulence and grandeur reside. Your lunch can start with classics like caprese salad, shrimp cocktail and crab cakes, but make sure to leave room for the "House Specialty" – perfectly cut Prime Rib with creamy horseradish sauces and au jus.
After lunch, you can take a self-guided tour that will give you insight on the Studebaker family, as well as the mansion's rich history in South Bend.
A reservation is required for dining.

After lunch, take an adrenaline-rushed rafting ride in the heart of South Bend. You must book your passes online in advance or day of onsite.
Also, it is highly recommended to bring an extra set of clothes and towels because you will get wet!

After a day of exploration, it's time to relax and catch some sun! From canoeing to fishing, hiking, and shopping, the Dunes offers a plethora of activities and attractions for visitors to choose from.
There are 15 miles of coastline at your feet, but Indiana Dunes State Park Beach and West Beach are the two best locations.

No day is complete without a little snack. Before heading back to Chicago, grab some sandwiches, salads or a few chocolate-covered strawberries to make the ride home even sweeter.