Chicago Chronicles Day Eight: The Whirlwind Journey from Lisle to Niagara

Driving Delights: Julie, Elle, and the 550-Mile Odyssey

Ah, another day, another adventure in the Windy City saga! Today’s escapade involved a delightful drive from Lisle to the majestic Niagara Falls. Picture this: a 9:15 AM departure from Julie’s abode, with my wife Michele and cousin Julie herself and the charming Elle in tow, embarking on an 8.5-hour, 550-mile journey towards the west, with Canada as our ultimate destination.

Culinary Pitstop in Charlotte: Where Wraps Went Wild

Our first pitstop landed us in Charlotte, Michigan, a quaint town with a peculiar taste in wraps. Now, don’t get me wrong, the turkey sandwich was my savior, but the girls, oh dear, were less than impressed. Fried chicken in wraps adorned with what seemed like the remnants of a culinary mishap—my, oh my! After a quick 45-minute culinary detour, we were back on the road, stomachs full, and taste buds slightly perplexed.

Border Blues and Canadian Curves

Back on the road, westward through Michigan, our next challenge awaited at the border. A 45-minute standstill in a queue surrounded by wagons, all patiently waiting to part with $3 to cross the bridge. Once over, the Canadian roads greeted us, straighter and seemingly more organized than their American counterparts.

As night fell, rush-hour traffic became my companion, guiding us into the illuminated city of Niagara—a slightly exhausting but invigorating drive.

Hilton

Hilton Heights: Views from the 48th Floor

Upon arrival, the Hilton Hotel awaited, promising not just a bed but a vantage point on the 48th floor. With valet parking securing our trusty vehicle, check-in was a breeze, and within 15 minutes, we found ourselves in a room with panoramic views of the Canadian Horseshoe falls and the dainty American Falls.

Gastronomic Delights and Bar Banter

But the journey didn’t end there. The evening beckoned, and with growling stomachs, we ventured out to an Italian dinner. As I relished a long-awaited beer, Julie opted for a Chardonnay. Post-dinner, Michele and Elle retreated to their chambers, leaving Julie and me to indulge in a nightcap at the hotel bar.

The bar, a melting pot of eclectic characters, provided us with an amusing encounter. A curious Canadian, eager to interrupt our conversation, boldly inquired if we were dating. Julie’s witty response? We were cousins, of course! Oh, the joys of mistaken identities and international relationships.