April 3, 2025 | By Anita Jain Shah

While New York, Los Angeles, and Orlando continue to headline most U.S. itineraries from India, a new route is quietly making its mark. With growing demand for authentic, experience-driven travel, RedPlanner is curating a fresh narrative around two dynamic Midwestern cities — Chicago and Detroit — as part of a compelling twin-city package for Indian outbound travellers.

This itinerary is gaining attention not just for what it includes, but for what it represents: a shift towards discovering lesser-known cultural corridors of America that are rich in local character, deeply immersive, and logistically seamless.

Chicago: The Skyline, The Soul, The Stories
There’s a reason Chicago is often called the “architectural capital” of the U.S. Beyond the iconic skyline shaped by Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the city surprises visitors with its vibrant neighbourhoods, lakefront charm, and world-class culinary scene.

RedPlanner’s curated experiences in Chicago include guided river architecture cruises, sunset rooftop dining in the West Loop, walking tours of Millennium Park, and a deep dive into the city’s jazz and blues heritage. The city is also a hit with families and MICE groups thanks to its museums, art institutions, and lively sports culture.

For Indian travellers, especially millennials and Gen Z explorers, the mix of modern skyscrapers and historical landmarks makes Chicago a photogenic and culturally stimulating first stop in the itinerary.

Detroit: Reinvention and Real America
Just five hours by road or a short hop by air from Chicago, Detroit offers a completely different rhythm — one of reinvention and creative revival.

Once known as the beating heart of America’s auto industry, Detroit has transformed into a city of artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and storytellers. RedPlanner’s packages in Detroit focus on heritage and modern culture: think Motown Museum tours, street art walks in Eastern Market, African-American history narratives, and visits to the Henry Ford Museum.

The itinerary also includes culinary tastings that reflect the city’s diverse roots — from Polish and Lebanese influences to its signature Coney Island hot dogs. Boutique hotels, art-filled co-working cafés, and repurposed industrial spaces add to Detroit’s gritty-chic allure.

Why This Itinerary Works
According to RedPlanner, the Chicago–Detroit route has resonated particularly well with Indian FITs, small family groups, and second-time U.S. travellers looking to skip the usual coasts. The itinerary allows a balance of urban exploration, cultural connection, and time efficiency — all while offering great air connectivity and visa ease.

Moreover, both cities offer excellent infrastructure for luxury travel, educational groups, and MICE segments, allowing agents to tailor the experience for different clientele.

A Trade-Ready Opportunity
With RedPlanner handling end-to-end operations — including hotel contracts, transportation, and local experiences — this itinerary is fully ready for Indian travel agents to pitch and promote. The company is also supporting agents with digital assets, suggested day-wise breakdowns, and destination training to help close sales.

As Indian travellers increasingly seek out the “real” America — beyond theme parks and big-ticket shopping — Chicago and Detroit are stepping forward with depth, diversity, and discovery. And RedPlanner is making sure the trade is ready to deliver.

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