We're seasoned USA road-trippers, having been visited on and off for 24 years. In that time we've seen most areas of the country. This year we're planning on going to Chicago and then around the Great Lakes area.

The rough plan is to stay a few days in Chicago, then head off to Minneapolis, taking in Iowa on the way (Davenport/Cedar Rapids or Dubuque?). After a few days in Minneapolis, head back east. Here we have a choice - cross Lake Michigan at Milwaukee (to Muskegon), or at Manitowoc (to Ludington), or drive around the lake via Green Bay and St. Ignace.

Crossing the lake may save us some time, but driving around may be more interesting and also gives us a chance to see a bit of Lake Superior and Lake Huron.

From the east side of Lake Michigan we would head back south around the lake to Chicago.

Can anyone offer any advice on where to go and what to see in this area?

Advice on Chicago and Minneapolis hotels would be welcome. We're considering Hotel 71 in Chicago. It's on the Chicago River and well placed. I've stayed before on East Huron Street, which was fine, but we'd like to stay near the river this time. Has anyone used this hotel or hotels near it?