Places to stop for food coming from Chicago

Question

We are returning from Chicago tomorrow to Farmington Michigan with active toddler and drive is roughly 5 hours . Any good places to stop for food ideally to break distance too ?

Thx 😀

Answer

Driving from Chicago to Farmington, MI, is roughly a 5-hour trip, so planning a few stops for meals or breaks, especially with an active toddler, is a good idea. The route along I-94 East provides multiple towns and rest areas suitable for food stops.

Option 1: Michigan City, IN

Distance from Chicago: ~60 miles, about 1 hour drive.
Great for breakfast or a first quick stop.
Food options: local diners, Starbucks, Panera Bread, or chain restaurants along the highway.
Kid-friendly: Plenty of fast-service options for toddlers and a chance to stretch at nearby parks or the lakefront if you want a scenic pause.

Option 2: New Buffalo / Union Pier, MI

Distance from Chicago: ~70-75 miles, roughly 1.5 hours drive.
Small Michigan towns right after the state line.
Food options: local cafes, bakeries, or pizza places; a more relaxed stop for a light meal.
Kid-friendly: Easy parking and some open space to let a toddler move around.

Option 3: Benton Harbor / St. Joseph, MI

Distance from Chicago: ~90 miles, about 2 hours drive.
Several family-friendly restaurants near I-94 exits.
Food options: chain restaurants like Panera, Olive Garden, or local diners.
Kid-friendly: Some parks along the lakefront if you want to combine a quick meal with a play break.

Option 4: Kalamazoo, MI

Distance from Chicago: ~140 miles, roughly 2.5 hours drive.
Major city along I-94, convenient for lunch or an early dinner depending on your timing.
Food options: Plenty of family-friendly restaurants, including casual chains, coffee shops, and local diners.
Kid-friendly: Some shopping centers or parks nearby for toddler breaks.

Option 5: Battle Creek, MI

Distance from Chicago: ~160 miles, around 3 hours drive.
Good if you prefer to push slightly further before stopping for food.
Food options: local diners, fast food, or casual sit-down restaurants.
Kid-friendly: Quick exits from I-94 make it easy for a short break.

For an active toddler, planning two or three stops along the way will help break up the drive and make the trip more comfortable. Michigan City or New Buffalo are great for an early break, with Kalamazoo or Battle Creek serving as a more substantial meal stop before completing the drive to Farmington.

Places to stop for food coming from Chicago

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