weekend trip ideas in midwest

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Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels – instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm – so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Indianapolis

Grand Rapids

Columbus, OH

Michigan City, IN

Brown County, IN

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

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From Door County, Wisconsin to Hocking Hills, Ohio, your crew will love these surprising midwestern destinations. Plus, get more great ideas for weekend getaways !

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Blue-green Elkhart Lake casts a mesmerizing halo over the whole folksy, forget-your-troubles town. In winter months, discover homespun shangri-la at the Old World Christmas Market ; snowmobile or cross-country ski the Ice Age Trail ; and take classes at L'ecole de la Maison Cooking School . Summer offers race-car test drives and ziplining at famed Road America , and lunch on the lake and spa treatments at Aspira Spa . The Osthoff Resort , which houses Aspira, is an out-of-towner favorite thanks to its lakefront location and roomy suites. Itching for a nightcap? Head to the historic Elkhart Inn for the German-inspired underground Ratskeller bar.

For more information, visit elkhartlake.com .

Chesterton, Indiana

Home to the Indiana Dunes—a 15,000-acre outdoor playground of sprawling woods, beaches, and sand dunes—Chesterton offers an outdoor workout unlike any other with its 1.5-mile 3 Dune Challenge. Prefer an adventure for your tastebuds? Local standby Octave Grill features "sneaky cider" and "earl grey" cocktails and inventive burgers. For unforgettable digs, hole up at Riley's Railhouse , a bed and breakfast fashioned from an old freight station, or DunesWalk Inn , a restored mansion that will put you a skip away from the gorgeous shores of Lake Michigan.

For more information, visit indianadunes.com .

Red Wing, Minnesota

Any day that takes you from breathtaking bluffs to beautiful boots ( Red Wing Shoe Store & Museum is home to the world's largest boot) is a win. Start your itinerary by hiking the famed 340-foot Barn Bluff (pictured) for incredible views of the Mississippi River and Red Wing. Afterward, satiate your appetite at Red Wing Brewery , where the unique 'zas (tater tot hot dish, anyone?) wash down wonderfully with freshly-brewed root beer or craft brews. (Wine enthusiasts may prefer the sips and stunning sunset at Falconer Vineyards ). If it's not nap time by then, Red Wing Arts Association , located in an historic (and still operating) train depot is worth a visit. Come nightfall, the 19th-century St.James Hotel will give your girlfriends a picturesque place to recover before the next day's adventures.

For more information, visit redwing.org .

West Portsmouth, Ohio

The sprawling banks of the Ohio River are calling. Start on a playful note at Buckeye Dairy Bar & Miniature Golf (idea: Winner doesn't have to pay for dinner!) before heading to a truly off-the-grid experience in southern Ohio's "Little Smokies" at Shawnee Park Lodge . Warning: It may be hard to peel yourself away from the lobby's panoramic views of Turkey Creek Lane. But, you should also take some time exploring the Shawnee Backpack Trail , where chirping songbirds and wildlife dot 42 miles of backcountry paths. After earning your dinner, indulge in the hearty grub at The Smokehouse , though if tomorrow involves a boating or sailing excursion, try to resist a second serving of the fantastic spinach artichoke dip.

For more information, visit ohiorivertourism.org .

Clear Lake, Iowa

Attention, music aficionados: This enchanting getaway works hard to maintain its legacy from "The Day The Music Died" to present. Home to the Surf Ballroom , where musical greats Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and The Big Bopper played their last shows, the town has a spirited music community evident in its annual 4th of July celebration and weekly Main Street fairs . Book your group at the Hilltop Motel , offering guests unique themed rooms (Coca-Cola or sailboat, ladies?). Finally, no lake-cation would be complete here without a stop at Starboard Market for their delectable homemade sandwiches. Be sure to order double—one for now, and one for when your stomach growls later.

For more information, visit clearlakeiowa.com .

Lake Forest, Illinois

It's only a 45-minute train ride from downtown Chicago, but Lake Forest feels like English countryside. Take in the gorgeous architecture and some of the 446 acres of historic parks first before checking out the pristine, 3.5-mile stretch of Lake Michigan shoreline. Stay there for a beachfront, then catch a show at Center Stage or Citadel Theatre . In town between June and September? Listen to live music at Ravinia Festival , the oldest outdoor music venue in North America. When you're ready to call it a night, the Old English-style manor Deer Path Inn , with its traditional afternoon tea service, will make you want to return for years to come.

For more information, visit lflbchamber.com .

Grand Marais, Minnesota

If local "barn hostel" Hungry Hippie Farm and eatery Angry Trout Cafe don't give it away, this harbor village on Lake Superior is wildly creative. Indulge in a sweet treat at World's Best Donuts or beer-battered cheese curds and brews(made with water sourced from Lake Superior) at Voyageur Brewing Company . Adventure fans will also find no shortage of stellar hiking and mountain biking trails. Meanwhile, for those seeking less of an adrenaline rush, you'd be hard-pressed to find a better place to spend an afternoon than North House Folk School , where courses cover everything from basketry and knitting to timber framing and sustainable living.

For more information, visit visitcookcounty.com .

Oscoda, Michigan

Os-what-a? You'll never ask that again after spending a few days in this hidden Lake Huron gem. Get into the maritime spirit with Alpena Shipwreck Tours (if your group is on the larger side, consider a private charter) before visiting the beautiful Sturgeon Point Lighthouse . Or, brush up on your cross-country skiing skills on Corsair Trail before journeying through and around Huron National Forest on the Sunrise Side Wine and Hops Trail . However you choose to spend your days, make sure to spend your evenings at the award-winning Huron House . Unwind by the fireplace or catch up with your besties with your toes in the sand. Don't miss the B&B's croissant made with homemade caramel sauce — 4,136 layers of flaky perfection!

For more information, visit oscoda.com .

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Over the river and through the woods, to Hocking Hills we go! This inviting, backcountry Ohio region features sprawling parks, welcoming locals, and awe-inspiring Cedar Falls . Warning: Cell service in the area is iffy, at best, but consider this a boon for reconnecting with your gang. With activities like classes at the Southern Ohio School of Blacksmithing , horseback riding, and bird-watching walks you'll want to put your phone aside anyway. If the soaring rock faces, deep gorges, cascading waterfalls, and hum of the deep forest don't teleport you away from everyday stress, the restorative, almost-spiritual energy of the Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls surely will. Don't miss the garden yoga classes and intimate spa tucked away in the woods.

For more information, visit explorehockinghills.com .

Corydon, Indiana

In this historic city (and original state capital) on the southern tip of the Hoosier state, make the Kintner House Inn your stomping grounds — that'll put you a stone's throw away from Butt Drugs (yes, really), the old-timey, locally-owned pharmacy that makes an egg cream and ice cream soda that will take you back to childhood instantly. Next, pick up a souvenir or two at Zimmerman Art Glass where you can watch glassblowers at work, or Broomcorn Johnny's , in case your partner could use a cleaning hint. Craving a hit of Indiana Jones adventure? Check out Marengo Cave tours, where your group can gape at the stunning Crystal Palace, a mix of impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. If chancing Lady Luck seems more apropos for your tale of "babes in the woods," Horseshoe Casino is a stellar option.

For more information, visit thisisindiana.org .

Wichita, Kansas

Kansas's largest city has a lively art scene , impressive restaurant selection, and more than 125 parks and greenways—why didn't Dorothy give us a clue sooner? Snap a pic at the flagship " Keeper of the Plains " monument (pictured), before visiting mainstays like the peaceful Botanic Wichita and Stearman Field Bar & Grill , a unique eatery at a private airport (as in, sit on the patio and watch aircraft land 20 yards away). Then hit up Sedgwick County Zoo and Tanganyika Wildlife Park for adorable animal gazing, kangaroo petting, giraffe feeding, and more. When it's time to hit the hay, Hotel at Old Town has you covered, as does its bar, if you're in need of a jazzy piano lounge and a strong cocktail.

For more information, visit visitwichita.com .

Bloomington, Indiana

This booming food town just an hour south of Indianapolis has something to delight everybody's taste buds (even your farmers' market -addicted friend who never wants to miss an opportunity to swoop up unique microgreens or small-batch tamales). Burn off your edible adventure at Wapehani Mountain Bike Park 's hiking trails and single-track mountain biking trails. Or, torch some calories dancing at back-alley music venues like Block House and The Bishop , which often hosts first-rate acts on the cusp of becoming famous. When it's time to turn in, the historic Wampler House is known for its hospitality and outstanding traditional breakfast. If your prefer total seclusion, the rustic Antler Log Cabins are the kind of thing group rental dreams are made of.

For more information, visit visitbloomington.com ,

Kenosha, Wisconsin

If cheese, sailing, biking, and more cheese sounds like something your friends could get behind, look no further than this unspoiled town on the shores of Lake Michigan. First, there's Mars Cheese Castle , a Wisconsin icon since the 1940s devoted to all things dairy. Next, visit the quaint lakefront to check out the sculpture walk or ride electric street cars. Craving more activity? Take a spin at the 90-year-old Washington Park Velodrome , the nation's oldest cycling track of its kind. There's plenty of nostalgic dining in Kenosha, but Frank's Diner , the oldest continuously operating lunch car diner in America, and Jack's Café at Andrea's , a 1911 soda fountain, are excellent starting points. Unwind at the delightfully retro-feeling Coffee Pot Inn , where you'll feel like you've landed in a vintage TV show. Fun fact: Bristol Renaissance Faire , frequently ranked the first in the USA, celebrates its 30th this year. If that's your party's cuppa tea, book your trip between July 8 and September 4.

For more information, visit visitkenosha.com .

Carmel, Indiana

This bicycle-friendly, fireplace a'flickerin' town is sprinkled with top-notch breweries and some of the best theaters in the Hoosier-verse. Start at Deviate , where taps are updated daily and may include hits like Strudel Cake and Roasted Peach Impediment. Next, you and the sidekicks won't be disappointed with a live performance at The Palladium at the Center for Performing Arts . Nor will you regret snoozing at Old Town Carmel Bed and Breakfast , where you can sprawl out on your patio, beside the fireplace, or just laze in bed with a book (and delightful breakfast). Once you're feeling restored, may we suggest hiking or biking the 18-mile stretch of the Monon Trail ?

For more information, visit visithamiltoncounty.com .

Oak Park, Illinois

Thrumming with energy, this design-centric locale is only 10 miles out of downtown Chicago. With 2017 marking the 150th anniversary of Frank Lloyd Wright, it's the perfect time to tour Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio before a stroll around the village to see examples of the architect's signature Prairie School-style. Once you and the crew have wrapped nerding out on the world's largest collection of FLW architecture, continue riding that intellectually-inspiring wave to Ernest Hemingway's Birthplace to scope out rare artifacts from the writer. Then, fuel up with classic Parisian fare and seafood at Hemingway's Bistro . Upstairs, count your sheep in the antiques-packed, 1920s ambience of The Write Inn , before enjoying dinner on the patio at Maya del Sol (suggestion: fresh guac and their signature "pickanna" margaritas).

For more information, visit visitoakpark.com .

Door County, Wisconsin

"The Door" is an oft-overlooked Wisconsin jewel with 300 miles of gorgeous shoreline known for its cherry trees and 11 lighthouses. Savor vino during a tasting at Door 44 Winery (check out the Frozen Tundra Wine Fest in the winter), before treating yourself to a relaxing, narrated tour with Door County Trolley . No trip to the Door is complete without a traditional Wisconsin fish boil, and there's no better place to do it than Rowley's Bay Restaurant , which conveniently offers lodging so you won't find your crew wandering aimlessly around the waterfront thinking, "Shoot, there's no Uber across the water..."

For more information, visit doorcounty.com .

Park Rapids, Minnesota

The headwaters of the Mississippi River beckon from this northern Minnesota gem, where you can fulfill your cabin fantasies shopping for rustic decor on Main Street or slipping away to a secluded lakeside retreat. Our favorite digs? The LadySlipper Inn B&B , situated on 160 acres in the woodlands and featuring double-whirlpool tubs and fireplaces in every room, plus free paddle boarding and kayaking in season. Nearby Itasca State Park is home to an incredible array of wildlife, but if you'd prefer to spend your day in craft and quilt stores-browsing nirvana (aka Main Street), at least break for lunch at The Goodlife Cafe , "where you're a stranger only once." That's pretty much true anywhere you'll wander in this town of around 3,900 people.

For more information, visit parkrapids.com .

Sandusky, Ohio

When the sun goes down, your clique will light up at discovering the Volstead Bar , a 1920s-style speakeasy with only five seats. From there, we recommend Crush Wine Bar for its duck confit pizza. From there, skip the lines at Cedar Point (you can always return to the amusement park with the kids on another trip) for an adult excursion to Put-in-Bay , a swift ferry ride away, and a veritable Lake Erie sparkler. Trivia: It's where Commodore Perry proclaimed "We have met the enemy, and they are ours," in the War of 1812, and there's a giant 352-foot monument in his honor. More trivia: If you pass on a visit to The Marblehead Lighthouse , the oldest functioning lighthouse on the Great Lakes, and a stay at Hotel Kilbourne on the waterfront (celebrate the happiest of hours with bay views on the rooftop bar), you're doing this Buckeye State-charmer wrong.

For more information, visit ci.sandusky.oh.us .

Saugatuck, Michigan

This town embodies that Mary Poppins charm at every turn—no wonder it's called Michigan's "Art Coast." The charismatic Hotel Saugatuck on Lake Kalamazoo infuses that same loveliness into your sleeping quarters, fashioned out of the only original mill that remains from the region's popular lumbering era. The fam back home will surely be jealous of a day spent at Crane Orchards , where you can embrace your inner-child as you corn maze and hayride your day away. Though our top pick is embracing your inner-Matisse at Ow-Bow School of Art or the Saugatuck Center for the Arts . Saugatuck is also home to Oval Beach , considered the best sandy strip in the Midwest.

For more information, visit saugatuck.com .

Hamilton, Ohio

Any city that has its own Donut Trail is reason enough for us to pack our bags. But in case your friends need further persuasion, try this: 1) Jolly's , an old-fashioned drive-in with hot dogs, root beer floats, and all the classics. 2) Sara's House , a farmhouse shopping hub full of repurposed furniture and accessories. 3) Serene kayaking and canoeing down the Great Miami River . 4) The Rossville Inn , where the billiard room and parlor may just distract you from forty winks. But, above all, did you remember to tell your friends there's an enchanted pathway with 227 years of donut-making?

For more information, visit gettothebc.com .

Perri is a New York City-born and -based writer; she holds a bachelor’s in psychology from Columbia University and is also a culinary school graduate of the plant-based Natural Gourmet Institute, which is now the Natural Gourmet Center at the Institute of Culinary Education. Her work has appeared in the New York Post, Men's Journal, Rolling Stone, Oprah Daily, Insider.com, Architectural Digest, Southern Living, and more. She's probably seen Dave Matthews Band in your hometown, and she'll never turn down a bloody mary. Learn more at VeganWhenSober.com .

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14 Top-Rated Midwestern Weekend Getaways

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Sep 16, 2022 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

There are so many places in the Midwest to take a weekend getaway, from the sand dunes in Michigan along Lake Michigan to the iconic, scenic covered bridges in Madison County, Iowa . There are small, quiet regions, like Hocking Hills in Ohio, that are perfect for romantic getaways, with secluded cabins in the woods and contrasting scenes, like the exciting energy in bustling urban cities like Chicago.

The midwestern states include: Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, and Nebraska. These states experience four distinct seasons that change with the months on the calendar, making for different kinds of getaways every time you visit.

Winter getaways mean ski resorts in South Dakota, and snowmobiles and cross-country skiing in the Northwoods of Wisconsin. Springtime brings fragrant flowers and gardens, while summer is the time for swimming and fishing on inland beaches and the Great Lakes. Fall ushers in the famous colors of the leaves for scenic drives.

Here is our list of some of the best places to visit for midwestern weekend getaways.

1. Chicago, Illinois

2. mackinac island, michigan, 3. northwoods, wisconsin, 4. hocking hills, ohio, 5. french lick, indiana, 6. branson, missouri, 7. sleeping bear dunes, michigan, 8. madison county, iowa, 9. milwaukee, wisconsin, 10. cincinnati, ohio, 11. north shore, minnesota, 12. indianapolis, indiana, 13. marquette, michigan, 14. detroit, michigan, map of midwestern weekend getaways.

Chicago is one of the best weekend trips you can plan in the Midwest. It is easily accessible by car, train, and air travel, and there are attractions to visit in Chicago all year-round . Even in the brutal winter months, a weekend away in Chicago is fun.

If you are only spending a few days in Chicago and do not have a specific getaway idea, start with the highlights by exploring the Navy Pier and the Willis Tower, which has the best views of the city. If you are not afraid of heights, head to The Ledge, the 103 rd floor of the Willis Tower, and stand out on the glass balcony over the city.

For a more specific Chicago experience, maybe for a special occasion, you can make it a girls' getaway shopping weekend on the Magnificent Mile and take in one of the many summer festivals in the parks.

Romantic getaways in Chicago can include evenings enjoying the arts scene in town. Take in a performance of a touring Broadway show at the Chicago or Cadillac Palace Theatre and go for some late night famous deep dish Chicago pizza afterwards.

For a weekend ripped out of the pages of yesteryear, there is no place that tops Mackinac Island on Michigan's Lake Huron. Accessible by ferry, this vintage vacation spot is a wholesome getaway for families, with so many things to do, and a romantic weekend for couples.

No cars are allowed on the island. Transportation is by foot, bicycle, or horse and carriage . The scenery is visual perfection, from the perfectly groomed hedges and gardens to the island's signature lilacs that bloom on schedule every June.

Start your visit with a walk through the historic downtown, and enjoy the variety of shops and eateries. Pick up some iconic Mackinac Island Fudge for dessert. Rent a bicycle and ride your way along the back streets of the island to see historic homes and points of interest, or take a tour of the island in a horse-drawn carriage.

Spend at least one day of your trip relaxing at a spa, or play a round of golf. Wrap up your day catching the sunset as you sit in a rocking chair on the world's longest porch at the historic Grand Hotel at the top of the hill.

You can allocate another day to exploring the sites of Mackinac Island , including Fort Mackinac; kayaking near Arch Rock; horseback riding through the state park; or taking a scenic boat trip on Lake Huron.

There are many lodging options on Mackinac Island including the Grand Hotel and Mission Point, two of the top resorts in Michigan. There are also other historic inns and B&Bs that can add to the nostalgia of the getaway.

One of the best winter getaways in the Midwest that is also a fun weekend getaway is in the remote Northwoods of Wisconsin. Stay in the towns of Hayward or Cable , which welcome winter outdoor enthusiasts. Spend one day cross-country skiing, where you can use the groomed trail that is famous for the American Birkebeiner ski marathon in Cable every year. There is a nice network of trails through the forest that are easy to navigate.

Another day of your weekend can be spent on some of the 600 miles of snowmobile trails that connect towns in the region. Start in Hayward and visit neighboring towns for lunch and dinner, then make the return trip, or keep going from town to town and stay in different lodging as you explore the Northwoods scenery. If you still have the energy for another day of outdoor winter fun, you should experience the fat bike trails in the area.

There are many outfitters that rent equipment and offer lessons, from cross-country skiing and snowmobiling to snowshoeing. Some equipment like snowmobiles can be rented for the week. Perhaps one of the best parts about a Northwoods winter weekend is warming up with a cup of hot cocoa next to a fire or enjoying a traditional fish boil at one of the small-town inns.

A weekend getaway in the Hocking Hills region of Ohio is perfect for couples. There are quaint cabins and inns tucked away in the woods throughout this southern Ohio region.

The Hocking Hills is Ohio's natural retreat, attracting people who are looking for a day hike or a quiet weekend. You will want to start in the Hocking Hills State Park near Logan, which has more than 2,300 acres of forestland.

Trails throughout the Hocking Hills region are as casual or as strenuous as you prefer. No matter whether you hike through Old Man's Cave, walk through the caves at Ash Cave, or marvel at the massive gorges in Conkle's Hollow, you will see unique rock formations, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Hiking is the most popular activity in the Hocking Hills, but the region also has ziplining adventures , which are especially great in the fall with the changing leaves; canoeing; fishing; and swimming. There are also several locations for horseback riding and rock climbing.

One of the best parts about a weekend getaway in the Hocking Hills is settling down in a peaceful cabin or building a campfire at your campsite and enjoying the stars in the dark sky at night. You can even spend one of your evenings at the John Glenn Astronomy Park and participate in one of the public stargazing programs.

French Lick, Indiana has become a magnet for resorts and couples getaways, but it also makes for a nice weekend for golfers or girls' getaway weekends. This town in southern Indiana is known for its hot springs, which is one of the reasons that there are spas and golf courses in the area. If you are looking for a weekend to just relax and decompress then French Lick should be a top option.

Spend one day getting pampered at the spa with a massage or a facial at one of the world-class resorts. Some spas, like French Lick West Baden, cater to couples and groups, so you can enjoy the experiences together.

Spend another day on one of the public or private golf courses in French Lick. The French Lick Resort has three golf courses and there are several others nearby.

Another day of your weekend getaway should be for seeing some of the sights in French Lick, including the French Lick West Baden Museum, which has history on the area dating back to the mid-1800s and interesting circus memorabilia.

The rest of the day can be spent on board the French Lick Scenic Railway, where you can enjoy scenic views on a 25-mile ride to Jasper . After the trip, stop in to see the Indianan Railway Museum, which has displays on the railroad history of the area.

One of the best family weekend getaways in the Midwest is in Branson, Missouri. It has gained a reputation as the live entertainment capital of the world and for good reason, as there are many performance venues along the main strip. A family-friendly getaway, Branson offers things to do for all ages , from museums and theme parks to outdoor recreation and tours.

Spend one day exploring Branson's museums, like the Titanic Museum; the Hollywood Wax Museum; and the World's Largest Toy Museum, which has more than one million iconic toys.

Another day in Branson should be spent at the fun outdoor attractions for families, like the Promised Land Zoo and Track Family Fun Park, where you can race go-karts and play laser tag. Round out a busy day with a live performance at one of the entertainment venues.

The last day of your weekend getaway can include some of the more natural side of Branson with an underground tour at Talking Rocks Cavern, a picnic at Table Rock Lake, and a swim at Moonshine Beach.

Discount tickets to many of the family attractions in Branson are easy to find at visitor centers and hotels in the area.

A weekend at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Empire , Michigan is such a memorable getaway. You could spend the entire weekend on the beaches of Lake Michigan and playing on the towering sand dunes. It is one of the most picturesque places in the Midwest.

One day of your Sleeping Bear Dunes weekend could be spent just driving and enjoying the scenic views. The Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is a 7.4-mile route through the National Lakeshore that takes you to several overlooks. The Dune Overlook is another spot with a panoramic view of the lakeshore. Pack a lunch and enjoy the scenery from Picnic Mountain, which is also along the drive.

A second day of your weekend should be enjoying the water. Besides the 35-miles of lakeshore, there are 26 inland lakes for kayaking, canoeing, fishing, bird-watching, and swimming. Some of the lakes to consider are Big and Little Glen for boating and Bass Lake for fishing.

You might want to dedicate a full day at the Sleeping Bear Dunes. The Dune Climb is accessible five miles north of Empire. The full experience is about 3.5 miles of sand dune climbing and descending to get to Lake Michigan. It will take several hours, and you want to come prepared with water and sunscreen.

Madison County in South Central Iowa is a romantic weekend getaway exploring the region made famous by the movie and love story, The Bridges of Madison County. It is the Covered Bridge Capital of Iowa and makes for a quiet weekend away with scenic drives. You can pick up a map of the bridges at the Madison County Welcome Center in Winterset (73 Jefferson Street) and plot your route.

While guided tours are available, you can also set out on your own and make the adventure fill one to two days. You can also plan some routes along the Madison County Scenic Byway that takes you along 82 miles of scenic back roads and communities. Leave some time in your itinerary to enjoy some of the other recreation in the area like biking and hiking.

This Wisconsin city makes for a fun weekend getaway because there are plenty of attractions and things to do in Milwaukee , but you can also make it a base for exploring other regions during day trips.

A Milwaukee weekend is ideal for couples and families or solo trips because you can tailor the options to your time and interests. One weekend day should just be used to explore the city.

The Harley-David Museum is one of the best attractions to see, and the Milwaukee Public Museum. Plan to catch a Milwaukee Brewers Major League Baseball game at American Family Field if you visit during baseball season. Soak up the sights of Milwaukee from the downtown RiverWalk, which has some of the best views of the city.

A Milwaukee weekend can be one or two days in the city and another day visiting a nearby town like Racine , which is 31 miles away; the capital of Madison , which is only 79 miles away; or Green Bay , which is 119 miles from the city. Each of these day-trip locations have lots to explore and are easy to get to from Milwaukee. You can even head past Green Bay and onto the Door County peninsula if you want to extend the weekend.

A weekend in Cincinnati, Ohio is easy to plan and execute because the city has so many small districts that appeal to different kinds of travelers.

A family getaway to Cincinnati is nice, staying downtown along the riverfront. You can spend an entire day at the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal, which houses several museums in one place. You can visit the Cincinnati History Museum and Museum of Natural History & Science one day, then visit the Duke Energy Children's Museum the next.

Couples can find bed-and-breakfast lodging in Cincinnati's Mount Adams or Over-the-Rhine neighborhoods, which have small shops and dining that are easy to visit on foot. For a couples weekend, you will want to see the historic Findlay Market and take part in one of the many community festivals that are always happening in the city.

If you are into the arts, you can take in a performance or peruse galleries in the arts district or just spend an afternoon walking the historic and renovated neighborhoods to admire the architecture.

A Cincinnati weekend is not complete without taking in a Cincinnati Reds baseball game or a Cincinnati Bengals football game downtown. Be sure to make your ballgame night out complete, with dinner at Cincinnati's famous Skyline Chili.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Cincinnati

The scenic location of North Shore, Minnesota makes it a no-brainer for a weekend getaway. The North Shore is located along Lake Superior, with dramatic scenery like bluffs, forests, and a breathtaking coastline.

You will want to stay in Duluth and check out the sights . Spend one day following the North Shore Scenic Drive, which is 154 miles of designated scenic highway. The route follows the coastline of Lake Superior, so there are always scenic views. You can stop for breaks and food in towns along the way.

Another day of your getaway can be spent hiking in one of the North Shore's eight state parks. The parks, like Gooseberry Falls State Park, have beautiful waterfalls, trails, and shoreline. The parks are also great for winter recreation, with cross-country ski trails.

Depending on the time of year that you visit, you can plan another day of your trip doing something unique to the area, like dogsledding, alpine skiing, and whale watching.

If weather is not conducive to outdoor activities, take advantage of the North Shore's Lake Superior Maritime Center and the Split Rock Lighthouse, which both have displays and exhibits about some of the famous Lake Superior shipwrecks.

Get ready for a fun and action-packed weekend in Indianapolis, the state capital of Indiana. While the city is popular for the Indianapolis 500 on the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, there are so many other attractions in Indianapolis for families and couples, and it is a perfect location for a guys or gals weekend.

The first stop for families should be The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the largest children's museum in the world . Activities here can easily consume a day, so you will want to split the rest of your time to cover some of the other top family-friendly stops, like the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum, and enjoying the outdoors at White River State Park.

While there are many great hotels in Indianapolis, kids will love the unique experience at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis-Dwtn-Union Stn , where they can stay the night inside an original Pullman train car preserved right on the tracks in Union Station.

Couples can enjoy the city scene with date nights taking in a show at The Cabaret or booking a couples spa experience at Conrad Spa or Woodhouse.

Spend part of your weekend taking in the Indianapolis Museum of Art and sharing a plate of tasty and trendy creations at Bluebeard, followed by a romantic stroll along the Central Canal.

For groups looking for a guys' or girls' weekend away, consider taking in a sporting event like a Colts or Pacers game, take a tour of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, or rev up some friendly competition at Speedway Indoor Karting.

Some other unique options for small groups are paddleboat tours along the White River and shopping in some of the cultural districts, like Broad Ripple Village and Fountain Square.

For a perfect Midwest fall getaway head to Marquette, Michigan. It is located in the Upper Peninsula and has hundreds of miles of lush forests that turn magical with color in the fall. The northern location of Marquette and the density of the forests, especially with the Lake Superior backdrop, make it one of the most spectacular places to visit for fall foliage.

Your weekend can include both scenic drives of the region with no agenda and a few specific locations to target. One of them should be Mt. Marquette Scenic Overlook , a 1,200-foot-high mountain location, accessible by car, where you can see the historical town against the backdrop of colorful fall foliage.

Another spot is Sugarloaf Mountain Natural Area . Here, you can park the car and take the trails to overlook areas above Lake Superior.

A Detroit getaway is not only fun, but it can be one of the most affordable weekends away in the Midwest. The Motor City has an exciting energy, so it is the place to go for a weekend to explore museums, parks, neighborhoods, and the city scene.

Start your weekend at the Eastern Market, a public market that stretches for six blocks, with local vendors and fresh food.

Spend a day getting to know the history of the Motor City at some of the museums. The Henry Ford Museum and the Automotive Hall of Fame have unique automobiles and transportation memorabilia. The Detroit Historical Museum and the General Motors Heritage Center are also nice, depending on how much time you want to spend at the museums.

Another day should include Comerica Park, where you can take in a Detroit Tigers baseball game and enjoy the Ferris wheel, museum, and other attractions on the grounds.

Round out the weekend at the beautiful Belle Isle Park . This Michigan state park is one of the best attractions in Detroit , with a botanical garden, aquarium, and nearly 1000 acres of green space.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Midwestern Adventures: If you are looking for more ideas in specific areas, you will want to review our picks for top-rated weekend getaways in Michigan , weekend getaways in Ohio , and romantic getaways in Wisconsin .

You might also consider getaways that just focus on your interests, particularly if you are an outdoor enthusiast. Skiers should look to our top-rated ski resorts in Michigan , anglers will want to take a read through our list of top trout fishing lakes and rivers in Missouri , and anyone just wanting to get into nature should see our top picks for national and state parks in Ohio .

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25 Best Midwest Weekend Getaways

Last Updated By VacationIdea on February 1, 2024 in Midwest

Wisconsin Dells

Several area resorts also offer recreation attractions and family stay deals, including Great Wolf Lodge and the Wilderness Hotel and Golf Resort. Gift shops, boutiques, family fun centers, and tourist-friendly restaurants line the city's Strip, along with larger-than-life attractions such as a Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum. For adult visitors, the Mid-Continent Railway Museum offers excursion train rides, while Ho-Chunk Gaming features a variety of Vegas-style casino games.

Lincoln, Nebraska

Midwest Vacation Ideas: From Minneapolis , Ohio , MN , Iowa , From Detroit , Michigan

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Romantic Midwest Getaway in Cedar Falls

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Hocking Hills State Park

19852 OH-664, Logan, OH 43138, Phone: 740-385-6842

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Hoosier National Forest

811 Constitution Ave, Bedford, IN 47421

Lake Geneva Weekend

Lake Geneva is one of Wisconsin's premiere resort areas, located along beautiful Seneca Lake. Its lakefront Shore Path is home to a large number of preserved mansions and summer home estates constructed by wealthy Chicago residents during the Gilded Age, including the Black Point Estate and Gardens, the former Queen Anne-style home of beer tycoon Conrad Seipp. Local history and culture is preserved at the Geneva Lake Museum, which is housed within an historic waterworks facility. Nearby, Big Foot Beach State Park offers summer opportunities for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, hiking, and picnicking, with overnight campground hookups available. During the winter months, the Wilmot Mountain Ski Resort is a hotspot for skiing and snowtubing, offering an intimate restaurant and resort guest rooms.

Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island is one of the premiere tourist destinations in the Midwest, located off the state's coast within Lake Huron. The entire 3.8-square-mile island is protected as a National Historic Landmark and has been a nationally-renowned tourist retreat since the Gilded Age, preserving beautiful examples of Victorian-era architecture such as the spectacular Victorian Grand Hotel. Visitors can enjoy a trip back in time during their stay, as the island is famously car-free to protect its significant natural areas and quaint downtown region's historic character. Outdoor recreational opportunities are offered at the massive Mackinac Island State Park, with boutique stores, upscale and casual restaurants, and happening nightlife spots populating the island's urban areas. Cultural attractions include the preserved buildings of Fort Mackinac, a former British and American military outpost, and the Richard and Jane Manoogian Mackinac Art Museum, which showcases works by regional indigenous artists.

Maquoketa is a small city in Jackson County, Iowa, located along the banks of the Maquoketa River that is known for its historic, natural, and cultural attractions, including the 111-acre Maquoketa Caves State Park, which is located adjacent to the city and is home to Iowa's largest collection of natural limestone caves, arches, and rock chimneys. Nearby, four 19th-century lime kilns are preserved at the Hurstville Lime Kilns, which comprise the largest collection of preserved lime kilns in the nation. Historic buildings and businesses abound, including a classic mid-20th century drive-in theater and an historic district with excellent examples of Victorian architecture. Other attractions include the Jackson County Iowa Historical Society Museum, the Clinton Engines Museum, and the Old City Hall Gallery, which showcases the works of Smithsonian-displayed artist Rose Frantzen.

French Lick

French Lick is a southern Indiana town that is best known for its mineral hot springs, which are credited with rising the region's profile as a major tourist attraction in the mid-19th century. Visitors can learn about the hot springs' history and cultural significance at the French Lick West Baden Museum or experience the purported healing properties of their famed Pluto Mineral Baths at the AAA Four Diamond-rated French Lick Resort. The resort is home to two adjacent spa facilities, the Spas at French Lick and West Baden, along with three 18-hole championship golf courses and the French Lick Casino, which has been ranked as one of the nation's best casinos outside of the Las Vegas Strip by Yahoo Travel. Historic railway excursions are offered aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway, which departs from the Indiana Railway Museum.

Branson , Missouri is one of the American Midwest's most popular tourist destinations, known as the "Live Entertainment Capital of the World" for its numerous country and popular music performance venues and revues. Since the 1980s, the city has gained national fame for its Highway 76 "Strip," which is home to a number of family-friendly tourist attractions and hotels and attracts more than eight million annual visitors. Country music theaters present popular national acts such as the Osmonds and the Lennon Sisters nightly, while tribute performers pay homage to music legends such as Elvis Presley and Patsy Cline. Major retail complexes such as the Branson Landing complex and Tanger Outlets offer discounted shopping options, while family-friendly roadside fun centers offer opportunities for go-karting, miniature golf, and horseback riding. Other attractions include the Silver Dollar City theme park, the Titanic Museum, the Hollywood Wax Museum, and Dolly Parton's Dixie Stampede.

Milwaukee is the second-largest city in Wisconsin and the second-largest metropolitan area in the Midwest after the greater Chicago region. The city is located on the banks of the Menomonee River overlooking the western shores of Lake Michigan and is famed for its nationally-renowned breweries, including Milwaukee Brewing Company, which offers brewery tours and tastings for visitors. In the 21st century, it has experienced a significant urban revival, adding tourist attractions such as Miller Park, the Milwaukee Riverwalk, and the Wisconsin Entertainment and Sports Center. Classic motorcycles are showcased at the Harley-Davidson Museum, while a recreated European Village is on display at the Milwaukee Public Museum. The city is one of America's most walkable cities and is known for its annual cultural events, including the world's largest music festival, Summerfest.

The Amana Colonies

622 46th Ave, Amana, IA 52203, Phone: 319-622-7622

Put-in-Bay is one of Lake Erie's top tourist destinations, accessible via ferry and jet boat service from the northeastern Ohio mainland. The bustling village is located on South Bass Island and is home to a wide variety of family-friendly and nightlife attractions, including Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial, which commemorates a significant War of 1812 victory. Other significant historic sites include the world's largest geode, located at Heineman's Winery and Crystal Cave. The region's winemaking and shipbuilding history is explored at the Lake Erie Islands Historical Museum, while nature is on display at Perry's Cave Family Fun Center, which offers a walkthrough limestone cave and a butterfly house. Shopping, dining, and nightlife are plentiful in the village's downtown district, which is host to a number of festivals throughout the summer tourism season.

Santa Claus

Santa Claus is a unique town in Indiana that is known for its Christmas-themed attractions, renamed to its current name in 1856 after a postal service dispute. As the only town in the world to bear the holiday-themed name, it is known internationally for the amount of children's letters to Santa it receives each year, which are responded to by a volunteer citizen group known as Santa's Elves. It is home to the nationally-renowned independent theme park Holiday World and Splashin' Safari, which features zones themed after major holidays and attractions such as The Voyage, widely considered to be the top wooden roller coaster in the world. Other Christmas-themed attractions include the Santa Claus Museum, the Christmas Lake Golf Course, and Santa's Candy Castle, widely considered to have been the first themed attraction in the United States. Themed overnight accommodations are available at Santa's Lodge and the adjacent Lake Rudolph Campground and RV Resort.

Chicago, Midwest

Chicago is the Midwest's most populous city, home to a metropolitan region population of more than 10 million residents. The city is a top regional getaway for arts and culture, home to internationally-renowned museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago, which showcases an impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. Touring Broadway productions and noted original plays are presented by the Broadway in Chicago organization at a number of theaters throughout the city, including the Chicago Theatre, the Cadillac Palace Theatre, and the CIBC Theatre. Notable skyscrapers and historic landmarks dot the city's Magnificent Mile, which is known for its upscale retailers. Along the Lake Michigan waterfront, the Navy Pier entertainment complex offers a wide variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including an observation wheel and an historic carousel.

Sleeping Bear Dunes, Midwest

9922 Front Street , Empire, MI 49630, Phone: 231-326-4700

Waterloo, Midwest

It is a prime tourist destination for cultural and heritage attractions, home to the Silos and Smokestacks National Heritage Area, which preserves sites related to American agriculture, and the Grout Museum District, which contains family-friendly science museums, a veterans museum, and a number of preserved historic houses. Visual and performance arts presentations are held at the Waterloo Center for the Arts, which presents the nation's largest collection of Haitian art. Other attractions include the Hope Martin Theatre and the 40-acre Cedar Valley Arboretum and Botanic Gardens.

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Ames for Couples

Ames is the home of Iowa State University, located approximately half an hour north of Des Moines, Iowa. The city was originally founded in 1864, named for Massachusetts Congressman Oakes Ames, and has been named as one of America's best places to live by CNNMoney. A wide variety of public visitor attractions are offered on the Iowa State campus, including the 17-acre Reiman Gardens botanical garden facility, the Brunnier Art Museum, and the Jack Trice Stadium and Hilton Coliseum, which present university sporting events. Other attractions include the Octagon Center for the Arts, which presents art exhibitions and workshops and hosts the city's annual Octagon Arts Festival, and the Old Town Historic District, which preserves a large population of Victorian-era homes and businesses. Public parks abound throughout the region, including Moore Memorial Park, Brookside Park, and Ada Hayden Heritage Park.

Yellow Springs, Midwest

Yellow Springs is a quaint village in Greene County, Ohio that was founded in 1825 to emulate New Harmony, Indiana's existing utopian community. The village is known for its socially liberal values, serving as a major Midwestern center for anti-war protests and civil rights activism in the mid-20th century and as one of Ohio's most LGBT-friendly cities today. It is home to private university Antioch College, noted for its unique work-study programs and individually-structured study. Arts organizations include Chamber Music Yellow Springs and the Yellow Springs Kids Playhouse, which presents award-winning summer theatrical programs each year. More than 50 locally-owned boutiques are showcased throughout the village's downtown district, which is also home to a variety of health-conscious eateries, sidewalk cafes, and farmer's markets.

110 Parkside Dr, West Branch, IA 52358, Phone: 319-643-2541

• 1. Wisconsin Dells
• 2. Lincoln, Nebraska
• 3. Brown County, Midwest
• 4. Romantic Midwest Getaway in Cedar Falls
• 6. Overland Park, Kansas
• 7. Omaha, Nebraska
• 8. Galena, Midwest
• 9. Cincinnati, Midwest
• 10. Hocking Hills State Park
• 11. Midwest Weekend Getaways: Hoosier National Forest
• 12. Lake Geneva Weekend
• 13. Mackinac Island
• 14. Maquoketa
• 15. French Lick
• 16. Branson
• 17. Milwaukee
• 18. The Amana Colonies
• 19. Put-in-Bay
• 20. Santa Claus
• 21. Chicago, Midwest
• 22. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Midwest
• 23. Waterloo, Midwest
• 24. Midwest Weekend Getaways: Ames for Couples
• 25. Yellow Springs, Midwest

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9 Amazing Trips to Take in the Midwest

 Midwestern getaways everyone should experience at least once.

Whether you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime destination or a place you can return to and build on tradition year after year, the often-overlooked Midwest offers a myriad of getaway options. From a record-breaking wildlife migration in the Great Plains to the majesty of the region's national parks to can't-miss events, here's our list of quintessential Midwest trips everyone should experience at least once.

Sandhill Cranes Migration in Nebraska

Every spring, roughly one million sandhill cranes traverse central Nebraska, giving new meaning to the term "flyover country." These majestic creatures find overnight solace in the vast, flat, and shallow Platte River. This migration is one of the largest of any kind in North America, and the largest crane migration on the planet,making it a must-see in the Midwest.

Consider checking out the Crane Trust for its overnight VIP experience, complete with heated bird blinds. The National Audubon Society's Rowe Sanctuary offers another excellent viewing option, with (free) daily guided tours at sunrise and sunset. To observe the natural beauty of the cranes in another way, visit the Stuhr Museum in Grand Island. An architectural marvel on its own, this institution organizes an annual "Wings Over the Platte" exhibit that changes every year, but always pays homage to the birds.

Viking's Mississippi River Cruise

While Viking may be best known for its ever-popular European river cruises , its Mississippi River offering is also worth planning a trip around. Built specifically for river use, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi sets sail in Minnesota, nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, and continues through the heartland before concluding in New Orleans, Louisiana. Stops in the Midwest include Red Wing and St. Paul in Minnesota; La Crosse in Wisconsin; Burlington and Dubuque in Iowa; and Hannibal and St. Louis in Missouri. Not so enchanted by the Mississippi? Consider another of Viking's regional options, a cruise expedition to all five Great Lakes .

Weekend in Chicago, Illinois

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

One of the best cities in the U.S., according to Travel + Leisure 's 2022 World's Best Awards, Chicago is a must-visit Midwestern destination. Stop by the Art Institute of Chicago , catch a game at Wrigley Field (home of the Cubs), or attend a show at the birthplace of improv, The Second City . Visitors might also enjoy a classic Chicago deep dish tour (book with Finger Licking Foodie Tours or James Beard award-winning food journalist Steve Dolinsky ) and the CAFC Chicago River cruise .

For lodging, lay your head at any of T+L's World's Best Award winners ; there's sure to be an ideal pick for every type of traveler. If you're searching for a quieter home base, Deer Path Inn — another reader favorite — in nearby Lake Forest is a lovely choice in the area.

Mackinac Island in Michigan

Known as the "crown jewel of Michigan" or "pearl of the Great Lakes," Mackinac Island offers a nostalgic feel since no cars are allowed here. Step back in time with a stay at the iconic Grand Hotel , with its record-breaking front porch and formal dinner dress code. Bike around the island, once a national park, or opt for a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding excursion with Great Turtle Kayak Tours . One of the best small towns in Michigan , Mackinac Island also earned the top spot in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards for best continental islands in the U.S.

Indy 500 Race in Indiana

Considered the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing," the Indy 500 is a can't-miss experience in the Midwest. ​​Held annually in the Indianapolis area, this race draws visitors from around the world for its epic 200-lap feat. It's noteworthy for many reasons, starting with the fact that its home — Indianapolis Motor Speedway — is the oldest continuously operating racetrack in the country. The Indy 500 is also the largest single-day sporting event globally. While there, a great option for lodging is the Bottleworks Hotel . Formerly the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Indianapolis, it now serves as a boutique hotel only a 20-minute drive from the speedway.

Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota

Experience abundant natural beauty in northern Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park . As one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S. , visitors won't need to battle crowds to earn some respite. Though its daytime activities, like guided paddling excursions and hiking tips, are lovely, the 218,000-acre park shines as an after-dark destination. An International Dark Sky Park , this area meets stringent light population regulations and boasts northern lights views, epic stargazing , and a night ranger program.

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Ohio

The world's only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is located in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. For a truly exceptional experience, travelers can time their visit to coincide with the induction event concert when new inductees strut their stuff for legions of screaming fans. Any time of year, music enthusiasts may book the Rock & Roll Suite at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown for an on-theme lodging pick.

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame remains a dedicated museum space all year, too, with the " Right Here, Right Now " gallery featuring outfits from stars like Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Harry Styles. Rotating exhibits keep the content fresh, and famous artifacts like Johnny Cash's touring bus and Prince's guitar from the Purple Rain tour draw interest to the permanent galleries. Other highlights include Stevie Nicks' black dress from the "Rumours" album cover, Flavor Flav's clock pendant necklace, and Elvis' gold lamé suit.

National and State Parks in South Dakota

The stunning Black Hills area of South Dakota offers two distinct national parks, an impressive state park, and cute small towns, making it an ideal Midwestern getaway. Badlands National Park highlights include the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway , with its 16 scenic overlook points; ranger-led night-sky viewings in spring, summer, and fall; and the 10-mile Castle Trail hike. Meanwhile, Wind Cave , one of America's oldest national parks, has one of the world's longest and most complex cave systems. Visit the cave itself, hike the 30 miles of trails above the surface, and check out the intact prairie ecosystem.

The 71,000-acre Custer State Park also deserves a spot on your must-see list. It's home to the Wildlife Loop Road , which traverses 18 miles of prairies and hills, offering up a chance to see bison, deer, elk, and more. Pro tip: Plan an early May visit to see baby bison and other newborn animals. South Dakota visitors can also get a taste of rodeo life with annual events such as the Black Hills Roundup in Belle Fourche and the Buffalo Roundup and Arts Festival .

Great River Road

While plenty of noteworthy drives are found in the Midwest, the Great River Road stands out among the pack. Winding through five states before heading toward its southern terminus, the Great River Road is designated a National Scenic Byway and All-American Road. Some of the best stops along the journey can be found in the Midwest, including the headwaters, Twin Cities, Lake Pepin, Dubuque, and St. Louis. And while this trek is lovely all year long, it's most awe-inspiring as the leaves turn in autumn.

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Linda On The Run

Travel, Lifestyle, And Fitness For Those Over 60

• Destinations

15 Best Weekend Getaways In The Midwest For Your Bucket List

September 4, 2023 //  by  Linda On The Run //   Leave a Comment

Are looking for the best Midwest weekend getaways? I have you covered!

The Midwest states have so much to offer whether you want to discover cute, small towns, visit lively cities, or explore beautiful nature spots!

These Midwest tourist destinations are perfect for family vacations, friends’ trips, or a couple’s retreat. You can also take a solo trip to unwind with some me time!

Beaches, theme parks, hiking trails, museums, and islands! The Midwest really has it all!

Let’s take a look at the best weekend trips in the Midwest for your next vacation!

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is the biggest city in the Midwest and has so much to offer for all types of travelers. If you love art, shopping, eating, biking, history, or all of the above, then Chicago is for you!

Snap a photo with the iconic Cloud Gate (or Bean) sculpture in Millenium Park before stopping by the world-class Art Institute of Chicago .

Admire the skyscrapers as you stroll the Riverwalk or find amazing views of the city from atop the Willis Tower .

Kids will love the many parks, the Ferris wheel at the Navy Pier, and the Lincoln Park Zoo.

If you want Midwest romantic getaways, Chicago offers many luxury hotels and amazing restaurants perfect for a date night! Or you could keep it simple with a Chicago deep-dish pizza.

Overall, Chicago is one of the best weekend getaways in Illinois and should be added to any travel bucket list!

Where to Stay in Chicago: Luxury Hotel: Hotel Blake . Check Rates: Booking.com

One Of The Best Weekend Getaways In The Midwest is Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana

Indiana Dunes National Park is set on the southern tip of Lake Michigan. If fun Midwestern vacations for you mean camping and enjoying nature, you will love this location!

With 15 miles of shoreline, you will have a great beach day with the family. Spend time swimming, playing in the sand, kayaking, and canoeing.

There are also 50 miles of hiking trails and 37 miles of biking trails. As you explore the park, spend time birdwatching, which is especially great during fall migration.

For campers, you can pitch a tent or park your RV at Dunewood Campground. This is a nice, modern campground.

Where to Stay Near Indiana Dunes National Park:

Affordable Hotel: Spring House Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Pella, Iowa

Want to discover one of the cutest small towns in Iowa? Head to Pella near Lake Red Rock.

This darling town was founded in 1847 by immigrants from the Netherlands. The Dutch influence is still evident today.

Visit the Pella Historical Village and the Vermeer Windmill. At just over 124 feet, this is the tallest working windmill in the U.S. It was built in the Netherlands and then shipped and reassembled here in 2002.

This is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest during spring and the annual Tulip Time event.

Admire the colorful tulips and people dressed in traditional Dutch clothing. With parades, delicious food, a craft market, and shows, you are guaranteed a great time!

Add this hidden gem to your list of Midwest weekend getaways!

Where to Stay in Pella:

Affordable Hotel: Country Inn & Suites by Radisson . Check Rates: Booking.com

Lawrence, Kansas Is A Great Place For a Midwest Weekend Getaway

Tucked on the Kansas River, Lawrence is a beautiful city full of historic buildings, museums, shops, art galleries, and local restaurants and cafes. It is also home to the University of Kansas.

Visit the KU Natural History Museum with over 12 million species and archaeological artifacts. It is all housed in a gorgeous Venetian Romanesque-style building dating back to 1902.

Other museums in town include the Spencer Museum of Art, the Watkins Museum of History, and the Wilcox Classical Museum.

Lawrence is also close to many parks for some time in nature. Explore the trails along the riverfront and birdwatch at the Prairie Park Nature Center.

Clinton State Park is a fun place for outdoor recreation. Set on Clinton Lake, you will have fun swimming, kayaking, hiking, and camping.

Lawrence is one of the best weekend getaways in Kansas for anyone who wants to enjoy a mix of city and nature.

Where to Stay in Lawrence:

Affordable Hotel: StoneHill Lawrence . Check Rates: Booking.com

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Step back in time on Mackinac Island, one of the best romantic getaways in the Midwest!

Take the ferry to this car-free zone and instead get around by foot, bike, or horse-drawn carriage. The small town is adorable and quaint with historic, Victorian buildings.

Book a room at the Grand Hotel, which opened in 1887. Stroll the cute downtown to find many shops and dining options. You have to try some of the local fudge!

Visiting this small town in Michigan you will be able to hike to Arch Rock, visit historic forts, and check out the many history and art museums.

Other attractions are the Round Island Lighthouse, the Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House & Insect World, and Sainte Anne’s Catholic Church.

Mackinac Island is so picturesque and easily one of the top weekend getaways in Michigan!

Where to Stay on Mackinac Island: Luxury Hotel: Harbour View Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

North Shore, Minnesota, Is A Spectacular Midwest Weekend Getaway

The North Shore of Minnesota stretches for 145 miles along Lake Superior from Duluth to Grand Portage on the Canadian border.

This is one of the most beautiful Midwest summer getaways with so much to offer including cute, lakeside towns, waterfalls, and hiking trails.

Start your trip exploring Duluth. Some activities here include Canal Park, museums, Enger Park, a zoo, an aquarium, and more.

From there, start up the North Shore Scenic Drive. Some towns to stop at are Two Harbors, Silver Bay, and Grand Marais. They are full of history and amazing lake views.

For pretty natural scenery, you will love Gooseberry Falls State Park, Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Tettegouche State Park, and Grand Portage State Park.

You really cannot go wrong with driving the North Shore! It is one of the best Minnesota weekend getaways, but you may want to stay longer.

Where to Stay on the North Shore:

Mid-Range Hotel: Grand Superior Lodge . Check Rates: Booking.com

Branson, Missouri

For one of the best family weekend getaways in Missouri, head to Branson in the Ozark Mountains. This is a lively town with so much entertainment!

Silver Dollar City is the top attraction in town. It is an 1880s-themed amusement park with rides, live music, reproductions of historic buildings, and classic fair food like kettle corn, funnel cakes, and BBQ.

Other things to do in Branson include the Titanic Museum, the Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure.

Look into the Branson Scenic Railway, the Aquarium at the Boardwalk, and the Dolly Parton’s Stampede dinner theater.

Get out into nature at the nearby Table Rock State Park as well. You will have fun swimming, boating, hiking, and camping.

You will make so many amazing memories in Branson! Come see what makes this town one of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest!

Where to Stay in Branson:

Affordable: Lodge of the Ozarks . Check Rates: Booking.com

Missoula, Montana

For a fantastic weekend getaway in Montana, take a journey to Missoula. This mountain city offers so much outdoor recreation as well as museums, fun events, historic buildings, and breweries.

History buffs will want to visit the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula . The fort was established in 1877 and today features 20 preserved historic buildings.

Hikers can trek to the top of Mount Sentinel in the Pattee Canyon Recreation Area. The 7-mile out-and-back Crazy Canyon Trail is rated moderate to difficult but is worth it for the amazing views.

There are many other hiking trails around Missoula but for something easy and accessible, walk or bike the Clark Fork Riverfront Trail.

For a Midwest winter getaway, plan on skiing or snowboarding at the Montana Snowbowl. There are 2,600 feet of continuous vertical drop.

You cannot go wrong with a vacation in Missoula!

Where to Stay in Missoula: Mid-Range Hotel: Goldsmith’s River Front Inn . Check Rates: Booking.com

Omaha, Nebraska

Omaha is one of the best Midwest vacation spots for families with kids. The city is found on the Missouri River on the Iowa border.

If you love history, nature, animals, architecture, or shopping, then add Omaha to your Midwest bucket list!

The area is full of pioneer history which is honored with sculptures at the Spirit of Nebraska Wilderness & Pioneer Courage Park.

The Old Market downtown offers many shops and restaurants in a historic setting. If you want to see more historic buildings, check out the Scottish Baronial style Joslyn Castle built in 1903.

Kids will love the Omaha Children’s Museum or the Fun-Plex Waterpark & Rides.

Other Omaha attractions include the Lauritzen Gardens, the Durham Museum, and Zorinsky Lake Park.

Where to Stay in Omaha: Affordable Hotel: Tru By Hilton Omaha . Check Rates: Booking.com

For A Great Midwest Weekend Getaway Visit Medora, North Dakota

Sitting on the edge of the Theodore Roosevelt National Park, Medora is one of the best small towns in the Midwest to visit.

Travel back in time to the Old West in this historic and scenic town.

Visit the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame with lots of galleries, artifacts, and cowboy memorabilia. The Billings County Courthouse Museum has even more frontier memorabilia.

The Chateau de Mores State Historic Site is a preserved 26-room, two-story frame building that dates back to 1883. In summer, you can take a tour and see period furnishings.

From Medora, you can enter the south unit of Theodore Roosevelt National Park . Spend time hiking, kayaking, canoeing, biking, and viewing wildlife such as bison, elk, and prairie dogs.

Where to Stay in Medora: Mid-Range Hotel: AmericInn by Wyndham Medora . Check Rates: Booking.com

Put-In-Bay, Ohio, Is One Of The Best Midwest Weekend Getaways

The town of Put-In-Bay is found on South Bass Island, one of the best islands for a Midwest getaway. The island is known as the “Key West of Lake Erie” and provides a relaxing atmosphere.

Visit the Lake Erie Island Historical Museum and Lake Erie Islands Nature & Wildlife Center to learn about the area’s history and nature. Make sure to check out the South Bass Island Lighthouse as well.

The town has many hotels and bed and breakfasts as well as local restaurants and wineries. For some nature, there are hiking trails to explore.

From atop the 352-foot Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial, you will find amazing views of the island and lake.

To get to the island, you have to take one of two ferries from the mainland. The trip is worth it for one of the top Midwest weekend getaways!

Put-in-Bay is one of the best small towns in Ohio!

Where to Stay in Put-In-Bay: Luxury Hotel: Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel . Check Rates: Booking.com

Broken Bow, Oklahoma

Broken Bow offers one of the best nature retreats in the U.S. The small town is located just south of Broken Bow Lake and Beavers Bend State Park.

If your idea of a fun time includes hiking, boating, swimming, kayaking, driving ATVs, or camping, then you will adore this slice of lush nature in Oklahoma!

In town, you will love dining at delicious restaurants and grabbing a drink at one of the wineries or breweries.

If you are traveling with kids, head to the Hochatown Rescue Center & Petting Zoo, the Maze of Hochatown, or ride an adorable mini-train replica at the Beavers Bend Depot.

With so much to do, you will agree this is one of the best vacations in the Midwest!

Where to Stay in Broken Bow: Luxury Private Cabin: Hickory Bear . Check Rates: Booking.com

Custer State Park, South Dakota

Nestled in the Black Hills of South Dakota, Custer State Park is 71,000 acres of gorgeous lakes, rock formations, hiking trails, and abundant wildlife.

If you love nature, this is one of the best Midwest weekend getaways for your bucket list. Visit in the fall, for amazing foliage and the annual Buffalo Roundup.

Head out on the many scenic drives and look for bison, wild burros, elk, prairie dogs, mountain goats, and more. The hiking opportunities will leave you speechless with amazing mountain views.

Sylvan Lake is called the “crown jewel” of the park and is a must-see. The stunning blue water perfectly reflects the surrounding boulders and pine trees.

You can camp in the state park or stay in the darling town of Custer which has many historic buildings and cool bison statues.

Where to Stay in Custer: Mid-Range Hotel: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Custer-Mt Rushmore . Check Rates: Booking.com

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , Wisconsin

At the northern tip of Wisconsin, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is comprised of 21 islands in Lake Superior.

This is an idyllic and peaceful place for a Midwest weekend trip.

Enjoy a scenic sightseeing cruise or paddle a kayak along the shore to discover amazing rock formations and caves.

The lakeshore also features beaches, hiking trails, historic lighthouses, campgrounds, and shipwrecks for scuba diving.

You will have so much fun immersing yourself in nature during one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin!

Where to Stay Near Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Mid-Range B&B: Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast . Check Rates: Booking.com

Door County, Wisconsin

Another spot in Wisconsin to visit is the famous Door County on the eastern side of the State. This Lake Superior peninsula is one of the most popular weekend getaways for couples.

There are 300 miles of shoreline and since it is a peninsula, you can watch both the sunrise and sunset over the water. This is such a romantic activity!

Door County has many state parks, cute towns, wineries, beaches, cherry orchards, and historic lighthouses. You will not be bored here!

If you want a more laid-back vacation, you can cozy up in one of the many resorts or bed and breakfasts.

With so much to do encompassed in lovely nature, you will not want to leave after your Midwest vacation!

Where to Stay in Door County: Mid-Range Hotel: Bay Breeze Resort . Check Rates: Booking.com

Packing List When Taking Weekend Getaway In The Midwest

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to the Midwest, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc… No matter the time of day or evening.

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

Hopefully, you have found some amazing weekend getaways in the Midwest for your next family vacation or romantic trip.

There are a lot of interesting things to do in Hocking Hills OH as well!

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12 Best Midwest Weekend Getaways

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: December 2, 2020  - Last updated: January 30, 2024

The ultimate list with the best getaways in the Midwest, USA

Midwest region in the United States is frequently overlooked as a tourist destination, overshadowed by the more glamorous localities on both coasts.

However, this part of the country has a lot of amazing sights to offer to visitors, even those who are staying just a few days.

To take full advantage of the natural beauty and unique lifestyle typical for the American Midwest, it’s necessary to identify some of the most impressive attractions.

As someone who’s traveled throughout the Midwest for several years, I am so happy to shed some light on the topic and highlight a few great Midwest weekend getaways worth seeing in person. 

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

1. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

As the heart of one of the largest metropolitan areas in the Midwest, Milwaukee is a must-see location for anyone hoping to learn more about this region. 

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan and close to the Canadian border, Milwaukee is a city with a specific culture and is famous as a center of the US dairy industry. 

Visitors can learn about history in the Milwaukee Public Museum or see cool motorcycles in the Harley Davidson Museum. People who enjoy sports could also spectate a professional baseball or basketball game to get a feel for the local culture. 

Read: Unique Things to do in Milwaukee

Where to stay in Milwaukee:

• Best Thing to do:   Milwaukee Food Tour
• Accommodation Options:   The Pfister Hotel is a true legend in town, while the  Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast is probably the most scenic option. For Airbnb fans, this historic house  is only a short walk from a scenic park. You can also check out my guide on where to stay in Milwaukee .

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

I always remind people looking for true Midwest weekend getaways about Mackinac Island. This lovely island is nested in Lake Huron, just off the coast of mainland Michigan. It attracts tourists for more than a century, and much of its historical charm is still preserved. 

The fun starts before arrival on the scenic ferry trip, while amazing natural features such as Arch Rock practically guarantee a memorable stay. 

Other locations worth visiting on Mackinac Island include St. Anne’s Catholic Church as well as the Butterfly House & Insect World nature museum.

One of the best Midwest Weekend Getaways with kids too!

Where to stay:

This comfortable 2-bedroom lodging provides you with everything you need for an amazing vacation, from quick access to the coast to full amenities. – Check rates here

3. Chicago, Illinois

As one of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago, and its many lures are well known to every traveler with a taste for dynamic urban culture. 

I enjoy its truly global spirit, but in my view, Chicago remains a true Midwest town regardless of its size and modernity. Needless to say, Windy City is also one of the Midwestern weekend getaways that offers the broadest range of possible activities..

It has fabulous nightlife (Stereo Nightclub is my favorite) but also features a lot of romantic restaurants. 

First-time visitors should definitely check out public locations such as Navy Pier and Millennium Park – both are conveniently located and offer magnificent picture-taking opportunities.

Read: Best Day Trips from Milwaukee

This cute little apartment in Oak Park is perfect for a couple or two friends and is nicely furnished to ensure a comfortable stay. – Check rates here

4. Door County, Wisconsin

If you agree with me that untouched nature is the best tourist resource the US has, you will greatly enjoy the time you spend in Door County, Wisconsin. 

Known for its scenic vistas and amazing beaches, this region is very peaceful and great for families to visit.

Some of the fun things to do in Door County include fishing, hiking, kayaking, and golfing, but if you ever get tired of those activities you can pay a short visit to the Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay. 

More adventurous spirits can even take to diving in Lake Michigan, as there are some intriguing shipwrecks and caves to explore.

• Accommodation Options: The Homestead Suites comes with outdoor and indoor pools and a spa bath, and the White Gull Inn is a great option for adult-only stays. If you prefer an Airbnb in Door County next to Fish Creek, you’ll love the cute Creekside Cottage or this DoCo Oasis . 

5. Hocking Hills, Ohio

This is one of Midwest weekend family getaways that few people are familiar with, so it can represent a great change of pace. I first discovered this incredible State Park by accident, and I keep coming back whenever I get the chance. 

The area is heavily forested and features endless hiking trails dotted with incredible scenes of nature.

There are numerous waterfalls in Hocking Hills , and Cedar Falls and Ash Cave are among the chief attractions to visit.

Read: 15 Best Abandoned Places in USA

Staying in this log cabin such as this one will make your visit to Hocking Hills one of your best Midwest trips ever! – Check rates here

6. Wisconsin Dells

My unofficial name for Wisconsin Dells is ‘fun city’, as this small settlement is simply loaded with great entertainment options.

In addition to excellent hiking trails and camping sites, the town on the Wisconsin River has several waterparks.

I always have a hard time choosing between Mt. Olympus, Noah’s Ark, and Chula Vista resort!

Some of the other things to do in Wisconsin Dells could include competitive ax throwing (seriously), having fun in one of the numerous waterparks or a visit to the local casino.

The city is also perfect for an adults-only weekend away, whether it’s a romantic excursion or a girls’ trip, you’ll love all the fun things to do in Wisconsin Dells for adults.

There are also some of the best adult-only resorts in Wisconsin located here.

Read: Where to go skiing in Wisconsin Dells

• Best Thing to do:   Visit the Ringling Brother Mansion
• Accommodation Options:  the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wisconsin Dells ***  is always a great choice, while I love the backyard of the Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells *** . For Airbnb fans, check out this cute  2 bedroom cabin  in Christmas Mountain. It’s one of my favorite Airbnbs in Wisconsin Dells .

7. Minneapolis, Minnesota

I never knew how much of a cultural center Minneapolis is until I visited in person for the first time.

The Twin City area is generally renowned for its forests and lakes, but it can also be a perfect place for Midwestern weekend getaways for younger people. 

Visiting the Walker Art Center and Weisman Art Museum is a great start, and if you find the time you should also watch a play at the Guthrie Theater. 

Of course, the weather is a big factor in Minnesota, so your choice of activities will be narrowed if you use this city as one of your Midwest winter getaways.

Read: Do I need an ESTA for the USA?

This spacious home is conveniently located between the airport and the downtown area, giving you quick access to everything you need. – Check rates here

8. Northwoods, Wisconsin

With so many incredible forests, lakes, and waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin , this part of the state is definitely one of the best Midwestern getaways for anyone who enjoys spending time in nature. 

The region doesn’t have any large cities and has a distinct rural identity, which is perfect for an outdoor enthusiast like me. It’s one of those Midwest vacation destinations that you can return to year after year, and always discover something new. 

For those arriving for the first time, Pirate’s Heaven and Monk Botanical Gardens are must-see attractions!

Read: 20 Best Things to do in Northen Wisconsin

• Best Thing to do:  Bring your own inflatable kayak
• Accommodation Options: Gordon Lodge  comes with hot pools and is a great place to stay.

9. St. Louis, Missouri

This bustling city is probably one of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest if you like partying, sports events, or urban architecture. 

This historical city on the shores of the Mississippi River has numerous landmarks worth visiting, none more famous than The Gateway Arch. 

I would also recommend that you test the nightlife scene, and perhaps stop by Thaxton Speakeasy or Just John Jest while you are in town. If you come with kids, St. Louis Zoo is your safest destination.

Read: Best Organic Clothing Made in USA

Since I know that St. Louis is a popular Midwest getaway for couples with young children, This beautiful place provides a perfect mix of comfort and historical spirit. – Check rates here

10. Madison County, Iowa

A location made famous by the 1990’s movie, Madison County is among the best weekend getaways Midwest has to offer. 

I’ll admit that I am not a fan of the movie, but I find the actual location to be quite heavenly. Aside from the iconic covered bridges, this area is also home to the John Wayne Birthplace Museum. 

The area is great for camping and picnicking and features numerous vineyards, while gardening devotees might want to stop by the Groth’s Gardens and pick up some fantastic plant species.

Read: 26 Outdoor Gifts for Women

This lovely cottage in vintage style is simply too romantic to pass up, at least in my view. – Check rates here

11. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan

This incredible location is among the handful of Midwest weekend getaways for families I can wholeheartedly recommend. 

It is tucked away on the Lower Peninsula on the shore of Lake Michigan, and it has pretty much everything a normal family needs to be perfectly happy. 

There are great beaches, huge sand dunes to explore, a demanding Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail to conquer, and plenty of small pleasures at every step.

That’s why Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of my favorite spots in Michigan and one of the best Midwest vacation destinations I know of.

Read: 15 Perfect Gifts for Hikers under $20

I have a nostalgic obsession with old architecture and this cute little cottage is the perfect example of accommodations I would choose in Sleeping Bear Dunes. – Check rates here

12. North Shore, Minnesota

This region holds a special place in my heart and I always gladly come back.

From the views you can get while driving on the North Shore Scenic Drive to the unmatched tranquility of Lake Superior and the surrounding forests, everything here reminds me of a simpler and happier time. 

If you need a bit more urban environment or have to resupply, Duluth is situated right in the middle of this area and has all amenities that you might need. 

All things considered, this is one of Midwest weekend getaways that strongly appeal to any nature lover.

Read: 30 Best Travel Coffee Table Books

Located just a few steps from the lakeshore, this comfortable cabin can welcome groups of up to 6 people. – Check rates here

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

Oh… there’s nothing to see in all those midwestern fly-over states. Right? Nothing but farms and flat land…WRONG! I may be slightly biased as I grew up in Wisconsin, but I believe the Midwest is home to some of the greatest adventures and hidden gems. From sea caves to Mount Rushmore here is the ULTIMATE list of weekend getaways in the Midwest!

This site contains affiliate links to products. I may receive a commission for purchases made through these links at no extra cost to you.  There are  only products included that I truly love. I APPRECIATE your support

Table of Contents

Minnesota Weekend Getaways

Duluth is a quintessential weekend getaway in the Midwest. With beautiful views of Lake Superior, amazing hiking trails, beaches, and scenic drives, you will surely want to extend your trip.

Start off your weekend by heading to Canal Park for a walk along the Lake Walk. I recommend parking at the Rose Gardens (easier and more parking) and walking 1.6 miles to Canal Park (if you want to skip the walk, you can park right in Canal Park for a fee. After getting to Canal Park, grab a bite to eat on Little Angie’s outdoor patio and Coldstone for dessert. You can then continue your walk to the boardwalk and lighthouse and watch the ships coming to port.

End you weekend with a day full of adventures! Head up the MN North Shore for waterfalls, beaches, and epic views. If you only have one day, I recommend stopping at Split Rock Lighthouse, Black Sand Beach, and Tettegouche State Park. If you have more time, be sure to check out this 2-day MN North Shore Itinerary!

For beautiful views of Lake Superior and to be close to all the action of Canal park, grab a room at Pier B Resort . Or opt for a fun waterpark stay at The Edge Resort .

Minneapolis, MN

Start your Minneapolis weekend getaway by shopping ’til you drop at the Mall of America (MOA)! The MOA has over 520 stores, 50 restaurants, an ENTIRE amusement park, and so many more fun activities. After shopping, head to the Como Zoo for an amazing zoo and botanical garden experience. The zoo is run off of donations only (but please donate), and covers 384 acres of land.

Art lovers can check out the outdoor Scupture garden or the Weisman Art Museum. If you are looking for an escape to nature, be sure to check out Minnehaha Falls for a quick hike or bike ride on the surrounding trails.

There are of course many hotel and airbnb options in Minneapolis and you will surely find one to fit any budget. If looking to stay close to the mall, I recommend Country Inn and Suites as it is affordable, offers free breakfast, a free airport shuttle AND is connected to the mall via skyway.

Gunflint Trail- Grand Marais, MN

As experienced by Ada from Beyond The Yellow Brick Road

Experience a real Northwoods escape along the Gunflint Trail in northeastern Minnesota. Located a four-hour drive from Minneapolis/St. Paul International Airport, reaching the Gunflint Trail is half of this getaway’s appeal. You’ll drive for two hours along Lake Superior’s scenic North Shor e before turning onto the 57-mile long road known as the Gunflint Trail in Grand Marais.

A visit to the Gunflint Trail wouldn’t be complete without day tripping into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. A Gunflint Trail canoe outfitter can set you up with a rental canoe and route. You’ll also find a plethora of hiking trails and fishing opportunities. During the winter months, enjoy snowshoeing, ice fishing, and Minnesota’s best cross-country ski trail system.

The Gunflint Trail touts an opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Its remote location means you need to fuel up both literally and proverbially before heading up this wilderness highway. You won’t find any gas or groceries “up the Trail.” Plan ahead if you’re hoping to dine out. You don’t want to miss out on dining at Poplar Haus, but without a reservation, you might. Full-service Gunflint Trail resorts like Gunflint Lodge and Bearskin Lodge make it easy to enjoy this forest destination, while many smaller Ma and Pa resorts cater to the more independent traveler.      

Wisconsin Weekend Getaways

Bayfield, wi.

Did you know you can go kayaking through sparkling blue waters and amazing sea caves in Wisconsin?! A visit to Bayfield, WI will surely be such a memorable weekend getaway in the Midwest!

After arriving in Bayfield, check in to one of the many charming B&B’s. You may not want to leave your room (which will likely have amazing views of Lake Superior), but if you do you can, be sure to head into the quaint town of Bayfield for dinner and dessert. I recommend grabbing a bite to eat at Pier Plaza Restaurant & Pickled Herring Lounge and then walking down the street for some icecream. You can then enjoy sunset with a walk on the trail along the water at the marina.

The next morning head to Meyers Beach for your kayaking tour and a hike. We scheduled the “Meyer’s Beach Full Sea Caves Kayak Tour” through  Bayfield Kayak . The tour didnt leave until early afternoon so we spent the morning hiking the Meyer’s Beach Sea Cave Trail . This is a 4.6-mile trail that takes you above the Lake Superior Sea Caves. We had our picnic at the top of the trail, then headed back to get ready to kayak.

The kayaking tour will take you 4-miles out to the caves and then gives you time to explore inside some of them. I do recommend doing this with a tour guide as Lake Superior can be extremely dangerous and unforgiving. It will be an experience you will not soon forget and one of the best Wisconsin Weekend Getaways in the state.

Door County, WI

As experienced by Deanne from Scenic and Savvy

Door County is a picturesque peninsula in eastern Wisconsin on the shores of Lake Michigan and Green Bay. A convenient drive from Milwaukee, Minneapolis, and Chicago, Door County is a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life and a perfect  Midwest weekend getaway.

A weekend in Door County  can include any number of things to suit your style. Do you like touring lighthouses? Door County has eleven of them. Are you a nature lover? Door County has numerous county and state parks with impressive views. Bike, hike, swim, and camp in Peninsula State Park. See the limestone cliffs and caves in Cave Point County Park. Then visit the adjacent Whitefish Dunes State Park for more stunning scenery. If you enjoy kayaking, boating, golfing, shopping, or wine tours, Door County has them all. You’ll find a variety of restaurants to choose from, too. Top off your meal with a scoop of ice cream from Wilson’s – an old-fashioned ice cream parlor dating back to 1906.

Door County can get busy during the peak summer months or during fall festivals, so you’ll want to book your lodging early. The charming towns of Bailey’s Harbor, Sister Bay, Egg Harbor and Fish Creek provide a variety of resorts, B&Bs, cabins, hotels, and motels.

Baraboo, Wisconsin

As experienced by Megan from Packing up the Pieces

One of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest is found in the charming city of Baraboo, Wisconsin. Nestled less than an hour away from Madison, Baraboo is the perfect nature escape for those visiting the State’s capital.

Outdoor enthusiasts will love the loop trail around Devil’s Lake State Park . There is an assortment of beautiful and diverse hiking paths, including part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Onsite, find beaches with picnic facilities and camping facilities. Nearby, the Pewits Nest Nature Preserve offers more walking paths and a small waterfall that follows along a scenic gorge. Bring your suit and take a dip.

Baraboo has a historic downtown and the Circus World Museu m, which is popular with children. In fact, it’s possible to stay at the Ringling House Bed & Breakfast. Less than a 20 minutes drive is the summer destination of Wisconsin Dells that is home to some of America’s largest adventure waterparks.

There is plenty for adults to enjoy in Baraboo. The city boasts its own winery, Balanced Rock Winery , and a distillery, the Driftless Glen Distillery . A trip to Wisconsin is not complete without a meal at a Supper Club, so visit one of Wisconsin’s famous, Ishnala Supper Club .

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Located right next to Baraboo (above) is the waterpark capital of the world, Wisconsin Dells! This small southern Wisconsin is home to over 20 indoor and outdoor waterparks. Even though you could stay busy for much longer than one weekend solely at the waterparks, there is so much more to do in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your weekend exploring the museums and unique attractions. First, head to Tommy Bartlett Exploratory for fun optical illusions and other hands-on exhibits. After you can race on the nearby go-karts and have a food truck lunch at Grateful Shed. End your first night with a little competition at Wizard Quest.

Day 2 is all about the waterparks. You have a few to choose from (over 20), but I recommend the Kalahari as it’s the largest indoor waterpark in Wisconsin. There is also a large outdoor waterpark to split your time between.

If you have additional time, squeeze in a Duck boat ride or a boat ride to Witches Gulch! Keep reading here to find out all the details about this weekend away!

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Don’t sleep on an exciting weekend getaway in Milwaukee. Located on the western banks of Lake Michigan, the city is extremely scenic and filled with activities. The Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport is the primary airport for the city, but for weekend getaways from within the Midwest, it’s also easy to hop on a bus to Milwaukee .

Known for its breweries, Milwaukee is the perfect destination for beer-lovers. Many spots offer tours to learn all about the brewing process, like the Historic Pabst Brewery and Lakefront Brewery . The Harley Davidson Museum is also an excellent stop to get up close and personal with some hardcore bikes. Other museum options abound for all kinds of interests: the Milwaukee Art Museum, Milwaukee Public Museum, and Discovery World cover art, natural history, and science respectively.

One of the coolest places to stay is The Brewhouse Inn & Suites , set in the former Milwaukee Pabst brewery with thematic elements woven in. Another stylish option is The Hotel Metro , which embraces an art deco style perfect for instagram pics. Both of these are located in downtown Milwaukee, with easy access to top sights and parks like Veterans Park along the lake.

Madison, WI

As experienced by Jenny from Global Game Plan

Madison, Wisconsin is a fun weekend destination that also consistently ranks highly among the “best college towns in the U.S.”  The University of Wisconsin-Madison is an integral part of the city and you can stay on campus at The Edgewater or Wisconsin Union Hotel, visit the Memorial Union Terrace for a beautiful view of Lake Mendota or attend an energy-filled Badger football game.  The hustle and bustle of State Street includes many shops, restaurants and bars – don’t forget to grab some cheese curds and a New Glarus beer (which is only available in Wisconsin). 

If you prefer to stay downtown, the Hyatt Place Madison/Downtown is conveniently located within walking distance of many tasty restaurants, the Wisconsin State Capitol Building and the Ivory Room Piano Bar which is a must-do evening of singing with local entertainers on their dueling pianos.

Tours are available  at various attractions around town or if you’re in the mood for a day trip, check out the famous waterparks of the Wisconsin Dells (one hour away) or architect Frank Lloyd Wright’s masterpiece, Taliesin (35 miles away).

You can easily drive to Madison from a variety of cities in the Midwest or fly into the Dane County International Airport which offers nonstop flights from popular locations across the country.

South Dakota Weekend Getaways

Keystone, sd.

After my first time in Rapid City, I became instantly obsessed. The town itself is SO cute, but you also have so many choices of things to do!

The most popular stop nearby, is of course Mount Rushmore. After admiring the monument and taking the trail around, you can head back toward Keystone or check out the Rushmore Tramway Adventures. If looking for more day 1 adventures, you can head to Cosmos Mystery area for an unusual and SUPER unique experience. Or make a stop at Bear Country USA for a drive-through animal expeirence.

On Day 2 continue about 35 minutes west to explore all that Custer State Park has to offer. Here you can drive along Needles Highway, hike, swim, and look for bison and other wildlife! You can of course drive yourself or check out some of the different guided tours!

End your weekend in Keystone with a tour of a gold mine or go mining for real gold with Big Thunder Gold mine or extend your trip to the Badlands for an epic South Dakota Road Trip.

If looking for a budget-friendly (but impressive) stay, I reccommend staying at Baymont by Wyndham . It is walking distance from downtown and you can even catch a glimpse of Mount Rushmore from the parking lot!

Weekend Getaways in Michigan

Grand rapids, mi.

As experienced by Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

Grand Rapids is the perfect Michigan weekend getaway. From museums to parks, delicious brews, and coffee, you’ll be in for a great weekend full of sightseeing. 

Home to a variety of museums including Grand Rapids Public Museum, Grand Rapids Museum of Art, and Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum, you can opt to learn more about the city and its history, art, or President Ford. 

The Grand River Riverwalk is a great place to take a stroll along the Grand River for which the city was named. Here you can see the city’s well known Blue Bridge. 

For amazing brews, both of the beer and coffee variety, Founders Brewing Company has got you covered for hometown beer. Madcap is the best coffee spot in town with Instagrammable latte art and delicious pastries. 

To get to Grand Rapids, you can fly into the Gerald R. Ford International Airport (GRR) or drive into town via Interstates 96 and 196. The best place to stay is the renowned Amway Grand Hotel located in the middle of downtown and perfect for a weekend away.  

Harbor Springs & Cross Village, MI

As experienced by Rachel from  Rachel’s Findings

A Midwest weekend trip to the Harbor Springs/Cross Village area in Northern Michigan is for the adventurous spirit willing to rent a car and drive 2 hours north from the nearest airport located in Traverse City.

Harbor Springs is the “bigger” of the two neighboring cities, a quaint and charming little town of just over 1,000 residents located right on Lake Michigan.  Stay at the Colonial Inn , a cozy historical hotel with modern renovations and continental breakfast, just across the street from a sandy Lake Michigan beach.

For dinner, grab all northerner’s favorite, BC Pizza. From this base, you’ll have access to M-119 which is the starting point for the tunnel of trees, a road canopied with trees stretching for 30 miles north, spectacular in the fall. 

At the end lies Cross Village, home to one of the most iconic restaurants in Michigan, Leg’s Inn , started by Polish immigrants.  Order the perogies or fresh smoked whitefish, while you wait, and take your drink outside to the gardens overlooking the bluffs.  End the evening with sunset at Cross Village Beach. To finish off your weekend, you can also visit Charlevoix, Petoskey, or Mackinaw City all under an hour’s drive! Be sure to add this Southern Michigan city to your itinerary for next time!

Weekend Getaways in Iowa

Bellevue, iowa.

As experienced by Rebecca at Whatever Packs Your Bag

Bellevue  Iowa is a beautiful and quaint small town located on the Mississippi River, just 30 minutes south of Dubuque Iowa. The closest airport is in Dubuque, but Chicago is the largest nearby and at 3 hours the drive isn’t terrible if you can get a direct flight.

Staying in Bellevue you cannot do better than a room at the Mont Rest Inn and enjoy the amazing breakfast, beautiful rooms, and amazing service at the best Inn around.

The River Ridge Brewing Company has a beautiful Mississippi Riverfront location, with a patio that is perfect for enjoying the lovely summer evenings.

The Bellevue State Park is a lovely drive and has some nice walking trails for exploring.

Eating in Bellevue Iowa there are limited options but Flatted Fifth Blues & BBQ is a great option, with a full bar, and live music it has an amazing chill vibe to it that you really can’t go wrong exploring.

If you are wanting to explore even more a little drive up the road is Crystal Lake Cave or wandering the Mines of Spain to get your steps in is a short drive and has some fun walking trails.

Dubuque, Iowa

As experienced by Kylie from Between England and Iow a

A great place for a weekend getaway in the Midwest is Dubuque, Iowa. This Mississippi River town lies just across both the Illinois and Wisconsin borders. Dubuque has its own regional airport that serves Chicago O’Hare (a 3-hour drive away otherwise) or alternatively, Cedar Rapids airport is 90 minutes away.

There are lots of  things to do in Dubuque . The Downtown district has lots of colorful murals, the Fenelon Place Elevator (the world’s shortest and steepest funicular railway), and the wonderful National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. The renovated historic Millwork District has great microbreweries, including a ‘beer-cade’ with retro arcade games.

Just outside of Dubuque is the Mines of Spain Recreational Area. The Julien Dubuque Monument and Horseshoe Bluff are two must-do hiking trails. For a little extra adventure, head underground and marvel at the Crystal Lake Caves which are close by. A great place to stay is the Hotel Julien which is said to have been an Al Capone hideaway back in the day!

Weekend Getaways in Missouri

Kansas city, mo.

As experienced by Vicky of  Buddy The Traveling Monkey

One of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest is to Kansas City, Missouri. It’s a big city, with lots to do, but it still has a small-town feel. There are also a lot of  unique places to eat in Kansas City .

History buffs should visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial. It is the only museum in the US dedicated solely to the Great War. If you’re traveling with kids, visit the Kansas City Zoo. It’s won multiple awards for its exhibits and has been ranked one of the top zoos in the US.

Union Station is also a fun place to visit. Architecturally, it’s gorgeous. But inside there are also attractions like a science center, planetarium, extreme screen theater, and traveling exhibits. Make sure to visit at night too; it’s always beautifully lit.

Kansas City is known for its barbecue, so during your weekend getaway, you need to visit Q39. It’s not only considered one of the top restaurants in Kansas City, but it’s also considered one of the best places for barbecue.

Kansas City is easy to get to by car or plane. Multiple highways run through the city and it also has an international airport, Kansas City International Airport (MCI). To stay, the SpringHill Suites by Marriott Kansas City Plaza is a great option because it’s near many restaurants and attractions, it has an indoor pool, and all rooms have a city view.

St. Louis, MO

Surprisingly enough, St. Louis is quite the hidden gem . It’s the second-largest city in Missouri and it’s situated along the banks of the Mississippi River. Even though St. Louis is the most well-known for The Gateway Arch National Park, there are plenty of more stops to make for an eventful Midwest Weekend Getaway!

Start your weekend with a stroll around St. Louis Zoo, and then head over to Forest Park where you can grab lunch, kayak, and walk through the outdoor Art Museum. After a good night’s rest, spend day 2 at Gateway Arch. Although there are many differing opinions about this park (some do not believe it should be classified as a National Park), it’s definitely a unique stop. You can even take an elevator to the top of the arch for the best views of the city!

If you have an additional day, check out the science center or the botanical gardens! St. Louis is also a pretty dog-friendly city , so do not be afraid to take your pup with you!

Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Chicago, il.

As experienced by Francesca from Homeroom Travel

Chicago is one of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Not only are there a ton of cool things to do, but there are also tons of fun places to eat and unique bars. 

One of the best things to do in Chicago is all of the museums it has to offer. The Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago are two of the more popular ones, but the Chicago History Museum is worth a visit as well. Millennium Park, the location of the infamous “bean,” is another popular stop. For those with a sense of adventure visit the Skydeck where you can step into a glass box over Chicago. 

You cannot visit Chicago without stopping for some Chicago-style pizza. Gino’s East, Giordano’s, and Lou Malnati’s are the most popular options. Portillo’s is another classic Chicago food stop as well. 

Chicago has a plethora of fun bars as well. Head to The Drifter, a speakeasy with a fabulous burlesque show, the I/O Godfrey Rooftop for views of Chicago, or the Signature Lounge if the Skydeck is not your thing. 

Chicago has two airports: O’Hare and Midway. You can frequently find flight deals for both airports and it is pretty easy to get to downtown Chicago from the airports. You can opt to take the “El” Train from both or catch a Lyft/Uber. 

Opt to stay in the Downtown Chicago area near the Magnificent Mile or in the River North area. There are a ton of hotel options and you can frequently find a deal if you go in the off-season. 

A weekend in Chicago is always a fun getaway in the United States.

Tip! Check out the Chicago City Pass t o save up to 50 percent on 5 Top Attractions!

Weekend Getaways in Ohio

Cincinnati, ohio.

As experienced by Sydney at A World in Reach

Cincinnati, Ohio’s third largest city, is the perfect city for a quick weekend getaway in the midwest.

If you’re spending a weekend in Cincinnati during baseball season, make sure to check out a Cincinnati Reds game. You can generally find pretty cheap tickets, and Friday evening games end in fireworks. Downtown Cincinnati is home to other fun things to do , like walking the Roebling Suspension Bridge or visiting the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is another must – make sure to see the zoo’s most famous resident, Fiona the Hippo!

There are lots of great restaurants in Cincinnati. Popular local dishes include Cincinnati chili (served at lots of restaurants throughout town) and goetta, a delicious (and unique) mixture of ground meat and oats that’s fried like a sausage patty.

Staying downtown is your best bet when visiting Cincinnati as you’ll be close to the main attractions (and a short Uber ride away from others). The AC by Marriott at the Banks is perfectly located and reasonably priced.

Cincinnati is crossed by interstates 75, 71, and 74, making it easy to drive into the city. You can also fly into the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport, which is served by all major US airlines.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

As experienced by Megan from Red Around the World

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is not at the top of most people’s bucket lists, but it definitely deserves a visit and it happens to be perfect for a midwest weekend getaway. 

It’s great for hikers and non-hikers alike with a variety of things to do.  Basing yourself in Independence, Ohio, on the outskirts of Cleveland, will keep you close to the park but has budget-friendly options.  The Comfort Inn is perfect for this.  Cleveland will be the closest major airport as well (it’s also a fun city to spend a day or two! )

Two to three days will give you enough time to see the major highlights of the park and a few other things as well.  Hike to Blue Hen Falls and maybe take a train ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railway while you’re there.  One of the best hikes in the park is The Ledges , a mossy fairytale wonderland. 

 Some things to do that  involve a little less hiking  (but still some) are seeing the Beaver Marsh Boardwalk, the Everett Road Covered Bridge, and Brandywine Falls.  If you want to do something else active besides hiking, bike the Towpath Trail.  If you visit in the fall, you may even be able to pick fruit at an orchard in the park and catch it with the leaves changing.  The major sights are somewhat spread out so 2-3 days will let you take your time at each spot and hopefully you won’t be too rushed.

Weekend Getaways in Nebraska

Scottsbluff, ne.

As experienced by Jen and Ryan from Passions and Places

The little town of  Scottsbluff, Nebraska , in the state’s panhandle, isn’t a terribly popular one – but that’s what makes discovering everything it has to offer all the more exciting.

Scotts Bluff National Monument is definitely the main attraction, with its rocky cliffs (which visitors can hike, bike, or drive to the top of) and the chance to walk on the actual Oregon Trail. Right by the monument is the Legacy of the Plains Museum , packed with artwork and history exhibits illustrating life in the High Plains. Another top attraction in the area is Lake Minatare – a massive lake that’s great for boating and swimming. It’s unexpectedly got a big, sandy beach, plus a lighthouse that’s open to visitors.

Other than the state’s famous Runza sandwich (which is worth trying if you’re not from Nebraska!), the must-eat cuisine in Scottsbluff is Mexican. The town is full of authentic Mexican restaurants, like Las VII Americas and Rosalinda’s Fry Bread & Mexican Food. Hotel 21 & Co. is next door in Gering and probably the area’s most popular place to stay. Scottsbluff is most often a road trip stop, but its tiny airport has daily flights to Denver (and that’s it!), which is about three hours away by car.

As expeirenced by Nikki of She Saves She Travels

If you’re looking for the best weekend getaways in the Midwest, then Omaha, Nebraska might just be the escape you’re looking for. It’s a relatively affordable destination with a lot to offer.

Nebraska’s largest tourist attraction is located near downtown and draws in over a million of visitors a year – Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium . It regularly ranks in the top 5 zoos in the world, competing with the San Diego Zoo for the top spot!

If you’re looking for history, then a visit to the Joslyn Castle or the Durham Museum are perfect for your weekend getaway. If nature is what you’re after, the Lauritzen Gardens and Fontenelle Forest offer visitors an escape from the city.

An absolute must when visiting Omaha is the Old Market in downtown. You’ll find boutique shops, restaurants and bars, and the Heartland of America Park. And with picturesque brick streets, it’s one of the  most Instagrammable spots in Omaha .

Flying into Eppley Airfield and renting a car is the best way to get around Omaha. Hotel Deco and the Magnolia Hotel Omaha are both great places to stay if you’re looking for fun décor and historic vibes. Plenty of affordable hotels and vacation rental options are available in downtown Omaha, too.

Weekend Getaways in Indiana

West lafayette, in.

As experienced by Theresa from The Local Tourist

Located northwest of Indianapolis, West Lafayette, Indiana, is known as the home of Purdue University, but it’s so much more than just a college town. With its neighbor Lafayette, there are tons of things to do. One place history buffs and art lovers won’t want to miss is the Haan Mansion Museum of Indiana Art. The house itself was built for the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair, and inside is an impressive collection of Hoosier art.

Another must-see is the Tippecanoe Battlefield and Museum, which commemorates a battle between early settlers and Native Americans. For greater context, visit nearby Prophetstown State Park, which was the site of a village later decimated by the Battle of Tippecanoe.

When you’re hungry, don’t miss Triple XXX. Their “chop steaks” burgers are good enough for Guy Fieri, and their root beer is good enough for anyone. Another tasty stop is Bruno’s Pizza, the first pizza place in West Lafayette.

Because West Lafayette is a college town, there are plenty of chain hotels. If you want to stay someplace a bit more personal, check out Black Blanket Farms Bed & Breakfast. It’s quaint and comfortable and located in the middle of farmland, so you’ll get the true Indiana experience

Want an easier way to plan your Weekend Trips?! Click the picture below to download your FREE Weekend Getaway Planner!

Have you explored the Midwest? What other weekend getaways in the Midwest would you add to this list?

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Be charmed by Chicago on a weekend getaway. (Photo: Marriott International)

Expect the Unexpected the Best Weekend Getaways in the U.S. Midwest

With thousands of miles of Great Lakes shoreline to explore, friendly cities brimming with culinary and cultural attractions, and outdoor adventures waiting around every corner, the Midwest is full of surprises. Follow our lead to some of the best Midwest weekend getaways in Wisconsin, Ohio, Minnesota and beyond.

As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip.

Chicago, Illinois

The nation’s third-largest city knows how to turn on a good time, whether you’re just in town for a weekend or can linger longer for all the delights Chicago dishes out.

With public art installations (including the highly Instagrammable “Bean”), a rock-climbing wall and the free, event-filled Chicago Cultural Center among the many attractions at Millennium Park , you could easily pack in an entire afternoon of exploring.

And when it’s a cool neighborhood that’s calling, get your fill of vintage boutiques, record shops and killer coffee haunts (like Colectivo Coffee ) just north of downtown in stylish Wicker Park.

Whatever you do, make sure you find time to stroll down Navy Pier , aka the People’s Pier, and sink your teeth into Chicago’s legendary deep-dish pizza with a slice from Giordano’s , with a convenient location right on the pier.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Delicious local beers, lakeside living and a down-home fish-fry meal are just a taste of what awaits when you plan a weekend getaway to the quintessential Wisconsin town of Lake Geneva .

Getting out onto Lake Geneva itself is obviously a must when the weather cooperates — whether you end up ogling posh lakeside homes during a cruise on the U.S. Mailboat Tour (during which residential mail will actually be delivered) or aim to hook a walleye during a guided fishing trip with Lake Geneva Fishing Guide Service .

Back on land, tackle a zip-lining course , get mystified during a magic show at Tristan Crist Magic Theatre or sink your teeth into cheese curds and knock back a proper Wisconsin bloody mary (the state is famous for those, too) at one of Lake Geneva’s many lively bars.

Start at standby Thumbs Up and ask the locals where to go from there. If you’re here on a Friday night, local restaurants will surely have a fish fry on offer, too.

Duluth, Minnesota

Outdoor-lovers from the Midwest and beyond know the appeal of Duluth , a buzzing town on Lake Superior that offers easy access to trails, rivers, mountains and lakes for all-season adventuring.

You can get up to some pretty awesome urban adventures here, too. Head to Canal Park to check out cafés, breweries and galleries that have sprung up inside abandoned warehouses. Don’t miss a caffeine and pastry pick-me-up while you’re there from Duluth Coffee Company , or hit the solar-powered brewpub and waterside patio at Canal Park Brewing Company for lunch and a local beer.

For a stellar scenic drive in the area, take to the road along the Skyline Parkway where you can detour to hike (or snowshoe during the winter) or simply soak in the views of Lake Superior and the St. Louis River while cruising the 25-mile route.

Madison, Wisconsin

Spend any time in the Midwest and you’ll hear it from people who are from here and who’ve moved here — Madison is simply awesome.

Surrounded by four lakes and endless trails for year-round outdoor fun, the state capital is home to the gorgeous University of Wisconsin, where you might want to start your explorations by pedaling a bike along the lakeshore path for nonstop Lake Mendota views.

During the warmer months of the year, from April to November, shop for local produce, crafts and — what else? — Wisconsin cheese at the Dane County Farmers’ Market , which spills across Capitol Square.

And for a fancy night on the town, book at table at Tempest Oyster Bar , a sophisticated spot serving up fresh seafood (oysters, Maine lobster and the like) alongside craft cocktails.

Columbus, Ohio

Another exciting Midwestern city by the water awaits when you plan a weekend getaway to Columbus , right along the Scioto River and brimming with quaint neighborhoods like German Village (with its historic pubs and cool café scene), as well as cultural and culinary highlights.

For a culture fix, Wexner Center for the Arts , revered for its outstanding collection of contemporary artworks; Hammond Harkins Galleries and the Columbus Museum of Art are among a handful of heavy hitters.

For a date night with Scioto River, fountain and skyline views, book a table at Milestone 229 , where Ohio beef stars on the menu and the toffee bread pudding for dessert is worth the trip alone.

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13 Marvelous Midwest Road Trips (Itinerary Ideas + Tips!)

Of all the regions of the USA, there’s a good chance that (for non-locals) the Midwest is the most surprising–and that alone is an excellent reason to plan a Midwest road trip!

Packed with diverse national and state parks, incredible beaches (yes, beaches!), interesting cities, a seemingly endless array of quaint lighthouses and charming small towns, and so much more, the Midwest is far more than “flyover country”.

Sure, many of the best road trips in the Midwest require a lot of time on the interstate.

And yes, visiting in winter probably isn’t optimal for most first-time visitors.

But, if you’ve never visited the region before, any of these incredible Midwest road trip routes–many of them written by locals–are bound to leave you enchanted.

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We asked several other travel bloggers to share their favorite Midwest USA road trip ideas with us, and they delivered a remarkably diverse set of routes, perfect for everything from weekend getaways to long vacations.

From the wide-open spaces of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota to the stunning architecture of Chicago to the historic charm of Mackinac Island, there are so many incredible places to visit in the Midwest.

We have offered suggestions for the best hotels in each place but if you are doing this as a true road trip it is really cool to do it in an RV. You can rent incredible RVs and camper vans from Outdoorsy, book here for your next road trip!

Here are some of the best Midwest road trip itineraries to consider for your next vacation!

Table of Contents

Quick Tips for Taking Your Midwest Road Trip

Single-state midwest road trip itineraries, multi-state road trips in the midwest.

Don’t underestimate the driving distances.

The Midwest is an expansive region with lots of wide open spaces, and that can lend itself to drives that are longer than some visitors might expect!

Be sure to check estimated driving times carefully when planning your route, and build in plenty of stops to stretch your legs.

… And also to check out the many quirky roadside attractions in the region, like the Corn Palace in South Dakota or the American Gothic House in Iowa!

If you’re renting a car, shop around.

The best company to rent a car from for your Midwest road trip will likely vary dramatically depending on where and when you’re traveling.

Sometimes large international carriers offer the best prices, sometimes local outfits. Sometimes one company has an excellent base price, but terrible rental requirements.

The best way to find your rental car is to search through  Discover Cars , which will sift through dozens of companies to find the best combination of low prices and reasonable rental terms for your road trip route.

Browse rental cars  for your Midwestern USA road trip today!

Read the rental requirements carefully.

Especially make sure you know how many miles you’ve been allotted (or ideally, if they’re unlimited), if you need to return the car empty or full of fuel, what to do if the car breaks down, and what damages you’re liable for in the event of an accident.

Make sure you pack the right gear.

From safety gear to snacks, a road trip in the Midwest requires bringing the right tools along, whether you’re taking a short vacation, trying out van life, or something in between.

We recommend taking a look at the suggestions on  our road trip packing list  before you go!

Don’t overextend yourself.

Exploring all of the incredible places to visit in the Midwest is a project for a lifetime, not one trip!

As tempting as it is to add on additional driving to stop at just one more waterfall, lighthouse, or small town, make sure that you leave enough time to thoroughly explore each destination rather than spending the entirety of your vacation driving from one spot to the next.

Be prepared to be surprised!

If this is your first trip to the Midwest, there’s a good chance that its diversity and beauty will enchant you in all the best ways.

When exploring the Midwest, beautiful beaches, delicious food, gorgeous fall foliage, incredibly warm people, and dynamic cities–among many other treasures–are just around the corner.

South Dakota State + National Parks Road Trip

From Allison of Eternal Arrival

One of the best Midwest road trips is a loop from Rapid City, South Dakota making stops in its two national parks, as well as Custer State Park!

This is an easy road trip that you can do in as little as 4 days, but you can also make it part of a larger  South Dakota road trip itinerary .

Start in Rapid City to begin your trip and then make your way first to Wall, SD.

This fun little town is a great place to stop at Wall Drug Store for scenic photos in an Old West-feeling setting.

From there, head through Badlands National Park from the Northeast Entrance, taking the 30-mile Badlands Loop Road and stopping at as many overlooks as possible!

Depart via the Pinnacles Entrance and then make your way to Wind Cave National Park.

Wind Cave National Park is beautiful but there must be some advance planning as you need advance reservations to visit Wind Cave.

Book your reservation for one of the 3 tours, ranging from moderate to hard difficulty, on the  NPS website here . 

After visiting Wind Cave, swing up north towards Custer State Park for one of the final stops on this South Dakota tour.

Custer State Park in the Black Hills is home to lots of stunning wildlife, including bison, pronghorn antelope, and elk. Bring your binoculars and a zoom lens!

Finally, drive back to Rapid City to end your road trip.

Driving Distance

Recommended road trip length.

At a minimum, you should spend at least 2 days in Badlands National Park, 1 day in Wind Cave National Park, and 1 day in Custer State Park.

This road trip can be done easily in 4 days, but you can stretch it out to a week and visit other sites like Mt. Rushmore, the Black Hills National Forest, Keystone, and Crazy Horse.

Ohio Road Trip Along Lake Erie’s Coast

From Theresa of Fueled By Wanderlust

One of the Midwest’s best road trips is  driving Ohio’s Lake Erie coast   from Cleveland to Marblehead for gorgeous lake views, beautiful sunsets, and lots of local history.

Beginning in downtown Cleveland, spend a day exploring the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame, Old Arcade, and West Side Market. 

Depart Cleveland the next day via Route 2, with several lakefront parks to your right. 

Edgewater Park and Lakewood Park offer Cleveland skyline views, while Edgewater Park and Huntington Reservation have pretty beaches. 

Continue for thirty minutes towards Lorain, OH, transitioning over to Route 6. 

While being a rust belt city, Lorain also offers a broad beach at Lakeview Park and the charming Lorain Harbor Lighthouse. 

Literature fans may also know it as Toni Morrison’s hometown and the setting of  The Bluest Eye .

Vermilion, the next town over, is a quaint location for an overnight stay. 

Its small downtown has an old-timey feel, with historic storefronts and a soda shop. 

Take a stroll down Main Street for elegant dining at Chez Francois, and to see tiny Vermilion Lighthouse and its adjacent beach.

After leaving Vermilion, continue down Route 6 for a short rural break until you reach Sandusky. 

After consuming Asian fusion food and craft beer at Small City Taphouse, walk 10 minutes to the Maritime Museum of Sandusky. 

This museum features exhibits on the Battle of Lake Erie and Sandusky’s role in the Underground Railroad. 

If you love roller coasters, plan an extra day in Sandusky to catch thrills at Cedar Point.

Finally, drive 30 more minutes to the tip of the Marblehead Peninsula to reach the 200-year-old Marblehead Lighthouse. 

This beauty is the oldest continuously running lighthouse on the Great Lakes.

With no stops,  this drive  takes a little over 2.5 hours. 

However, I recommend slowing down over a long weekend to fully enjoy each stop.

North Dakota Road Trip (Fargo to Theodore Roosevelt National Park)

From Anwar of Beyond My Door

Many people overlook North Dakota, however, the state has a plethora of road trip-worthy sites.

Starting in Fargo, visiting the town that is unfairly characterized by the movie of the same name, visitors can enjoy this hip small city of the north.

Be sure to check out the Plains Arts Museum and the wonderful contemporary, traditional, and folk art of the region.

For those with more time, a quick stop in adjacent Moorhead MN, and the Hjemkomst Center, visitors can connect with the local Scandinavian culture through this incredible boat journey.

From Fargo, head west stopping in Jamestown, to see the old wild west town and the largest buffalo.

Similar to many other big roadside attractions throughout the state.

From here, visitors can detour slightly north and visit interesting Lewis and Clark expedition sites such as Fort Mandan (where Lewis and Clark wintered) and the nearby Knife River Indian Villages known as the birthplace of Sacajawea.

Both can easily be visited on the same day before heading on towards Bismarck.

Bismarck, the capital but smaller and sleepier than Fargo has a cute downtown as well as beautiful nature nearby.

But if you are pressed for time save the nature exploration until you head to  Theodore Roosevelt NP , 2 hours west of the capital.

Named for the 26th president, the park protects North Dakotan Badlands and local flora and fauna such as bison.

The park is divided into two non-connected units and at least 2 days are worth spending in the park.

But if you have very limited time, the South Unit has more diversity of sights.

For those with more time and desire to explore local history, a quick stop at Fort Union Trading Post (90 minutes from the north unit) is worth a look at the fur trade and one of the most important forts in the mid-1800s.

About 550 miles, plus time in the national park. 

This Midwest road trip can be anywhere from 4 to 8+ days.

It’s recommended to spend at least 2 days in Fargo, a day en route to Bismarck, 1-2 days in and around Bismarck, and another 2-3 days in Theodore Roosevelt NP. 

Minnesota’s Iron Range

From Susan of This Big Wild World

Have you heard of Minnesota’s Iron Range ?

Stretching from central Minnesota and north to the border of Canada, the region is home to some of the best mountain biking in the country, excellent hiking, and the pristine wilderness of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area.

This Midwest road trip itinerary starts and ends in Minneapolis, which is a city worth exploring!

Enjoy an afternoon at a Minnesota Twins baseball game or paddling the lakes in the heart of the city. 

Next, head to Crosby which is part of Cuyuna Country. What once were mining pits are now crystal clear lakes surrounded by mountain biking trails for all levels.

Spend a day paddle boarding or kayaking the lakes or cruising the trails. Gear rentals are available in Crosby.

From there, drive to Ely which is a gateway into the Boundary Waters.

This area is among the most beautiful and remote wilderness in the US, best explored by canoe. Find guides and outfitters in Ely for gear and permits.

For hiking, try the Norberg Lake Trail at nearby Bear Head Lake State Park or the Bass Lake Loop Trail. 

Duluth is a harbor town on Lake Superior, offering easy access to popular destinations along Minnesota’s north shore.

Be sure to watch for the big ships entering the harbor near Canal Park, relax on the beach at Park Point, and stop at one of the many breweries in town.

Ursa Minor and Bent Paddle are local favorites!

These destinations are just 2-3 hours apart and have tons to explore.

Spend a minimum of 1 day in each of the 4 destinations for a 4-5 day trip.

Or, take your time and spend up to 3 days in each destination for a 7-10 day road trip.

Badlands National Park Scenic Road Trip

From Theresa of The Local Tourist

At only39 miles, the Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway is a short but mighty road trip in South Dakota. 

Driving through Badlands National Park  is a surreal experience.

You’ll feel like you’re on another planet instead on a road trip in the Midwest USA.

The drive begins in Cactus Flat at Exit 131 off I-90. You’ll know you’re nearing the exit because you’ll begin seeing sand-colored buttes, spires, and cliffs to the south.

After taking the exit, it’s a short distance to enter Badlands National Park.

Before you even get to the Ben Reifel Visitor Center, you’ll see a few overlooks and trailheads.

The visitor center itself is a great place to get your bearings, take a bathroom break, and get something to eat at the restaurant next door.

From there, you’ll continue west through the otherworldly landscape.

In addition to the unique formations, you’re also likely to encounter pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, bison, and prairie dogs.

The road ends at Wall, which is a destination in its own right with its famous, or infamous, Wall Drug.

You could drive straight through in about an hour, but what’s the fun in that?

For a more immersive experience, camp at one of the two campgrounds within the park and take some day hikes.

Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

From Linda of Midwest Explored

Easily one of the best road trips in the Midwest USA, a drive through Michigan’s upper peninsula is a must-do.

Start one of the best Michigan road trips of them all by crossing Mackinac Bridge into the Upper Peninsula.

If you want, leave your car behind and enjoy all that Mackinac Island has to offer before continuing on.

After all, this island is completely car-free and features top attractions like Fort Mackinac and Arch Rock. 

Next, continue onto the peninsula and check out the natural beauty of Kitch-iti-kipi, an incredible local spring with crystal-clear waters.

Then, hop back on the road and drive to Porcupine Wilderness State Park.

It’s a wonderful area with stellar views of Lake Superior, gorgeous local waterfalls, and 90+ miles of trails that will take you through vast old-growth forests. 

From here, drive until you hit Marquettethe.

It’s known for being the largest city in this UP (Upper Peninsula for all the non-Michiganders out there) and is a great place to explore Presque Isle Park, Sugarloaf Mountain, and Lakenenland Sculpture Park. 

Finally, conclude your road trip at the Pictured Lakes National Lakeshore with its dynamic natural landscape.

Be sure to explore the multicolored Pictured Rocks cliffs, Miners Castle, Chapel Rock sandstone formations, and Twelvemile Beach.

While this road trip isn’t long, taking around 2 hours to drive, plan on devoting between 3 and 5 days to this trip.

You could definitely spend an entire day on Mackinac Island alone!

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands, South Dakota

From Candice of CS Ginger

Mount Rushmore to the Badlands of South Dakota is a fantastic Midwest road trip route.

While there’s a sad story behind the impressive facade of Mount Rushmore, there’s no doubt that visiting the monument and associated museum is an incredible experience.

After visiting Mount Rushmore and touring all it has to offer, you will travel to the Badlands National Park.

Badlands National Park is a very beautiful and unique area.

There are really fun hiking trails in the Badlands , and it is a great place to visit with your family. 

You will be surprised at all the animals the Badlands offer.

You can see big horn sheep, buffalo, and the famous prairie dog area where you will see lots of prairie dogs. You can get very close to the prairie dogs but don’t touch them or get too close!

If you want to stay in the park, you will need to stay at Cedar Pass Lodge in one of their rental cabins. 

There are some hotels and camping options close by, but the Cedar Pass Lodge is the only option if you are looking at staying inside the park.

This is a classic road trip in the Midwest, and a fantastic way to spend a long weekend (or longer!).

About 80 miles.

We recommend spending at least 3 days enjoying this road trip in South Dakota, though 4-5 days would be better if you have more than a long weekend to work with.

Missouri + Southern Illinois Road Trip

From Tori of Tori Pines Travels

When planning a road trip in the Midwest, you won’t want to miss Missouri and Southern Illinois.

The perfect road trip includes a variety of cities filled with activities, nature to explore, and delicious food to eat, and you’ll find plenty of that here.

Start in Kansas City, Missouri where you’ll visit the American Jazz Museum and Money Museum.

For the famous Kansas City BBQ, check out Gates Bar-B-Q and order burnt ends.

Spend two nights here, before continuing east across the state to St. Louis. 

A weekend in St. Louis is the perfect amount of time.

Start at the country’s smallest national park, The Gateway Arch National Park, ride the tram to the top for incredible views over the city.

The free museum teaches the history of St. Louis and its title as the gateway to the west.

That night, visit Busch Field for a Cardinals game with the arch as your backdrop.

For kids, and kids at heart, spend a few hours at the City Museum, the most unique children’s museum you’ll find.

Fill the rest of your time with visits to the free activities, the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, and Missouri History Museum!

Eat some of St. Louis’s staples, toasted ravioli, St. Louis Style pizza, St. Louis style ribs, and gooey butter cake.

Finish off the road trip by venturing across the river into Illinois to Shawnee National Forest.

The draw here is the Garden of the Gods which features fun dog-friendly hikes and super unique rock formations.

The whole trip should take about 5 to 6 days, and will only require about 6.5 hours of driving.

Great Cities of the Midwest Road Trip Loop

From Lisa of Waves and Cobblestones

Looking for a fun road trip itinerary in the Midwest?   

Making a round trip from Chicago, Illinois to Milwaukee and Madison in Wisconsin will give you a great sampling of museums, architecture, and natural beauty to enjoy.

Start your road trip in Chicago, Illinois. One of the undisputed best experiences here is the architectural river cruise . 

Your vantage point from the river gives you great views of the skyscrapers, and you’ll learn a lot about Chicago’s architecture and history.

Chicago is also home to several fantastic museums, including the famous Art Institute of Chicago.

The Field Museum is the home of Sue, the largest Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever discovered.

Your next stop is Madison, Wisconsin. This college town is also the capital of Wisconsin. 

The Capitol building is incredible and is free to tour. Be sure to take in the panoramic city views from the observation deck!

One of the  best things to do in Madison   is to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens. 

The outdoor areas of the garden are free to visit. Don’t miss the phenomenal Thai pavilion and garden – this is definitely the garden’s highlight!

Continue on to Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Enjoy local favorites like bratwurst and fried cheese curds (and perhaps a local beer) at Old World 3 rd  Street. 

Then take a stroll along the downtown Riverwalk and enjoy the public art including ‘The Bronz Fonz’.

Spend an afternoon at one of Milwaukee’s museums, such as the world’s only Harley-Davidson Museum. 

Be sure to take a look at the amazing architecture of the Milwaukee Art Museum, with its Burke Brise Soleil ‘wings’.

320 miles round-trip.

Recommend Road Trip Length

This Midwest road trip itinerary will take you about a week since you’ll want to spend a minimum of 2 days in each city. 

Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma)

From Kylie of Between England and Iowa

The classic US road trip Route 66 starts in Chicago Illinois and passes through the Midwestern states of Missouri and Kansas before crossing into Oklahoma and continuing west all the way to Los Angeles, California. 

Of course, it’s quicker to travel on the Interstate but the heart of the road trip is to follow the original route across the country.

Travelers could easily spend a couple of days exploring Chicago alone, but it’s at least worthwhile checking out the Route 66 BEGIN sign at E Adams St and S Michigan Ave.

The stretch across Illinois between  Chicago to St Louis   can take upwards of 12 hours, especially if stopping at several of the different points of interest. 

When the Interstate was built, it bypassed all the small towns along the route.

To encourage travelers to come back many of the towns created unique roadside attractions.

Today, you can find a mixture of historic buildings that were part of the original Route 66 as well as the unique attractions from the time after the Interstate was built.

Some highlights between Chicago, IL, and Catoosa, OK include The Gemini Giant (Wilmington, IL), Pontiac, IL, the Chain of Rocks Bridge, IL, Gateway Arch National Park (St. Louis, MO), the World’s Largest Rocking Chair (Fanning, MO), Cars On The Route (Galena, KS) and the Blue Whale (Catoosa, OK).

Approximately 700 miles.

This road trip could be done in around 3 days (overnight stops in St Louis, MO, and Carthage, MO).

However, with the addition of spending time exploring the larger cities of Chicago and St. Louis, it is better to take around 5 or 6 days.

Great Lakes Road Trip in Wisconsin + Michigan

From Jenifer of The Evolista

One of the best Midwestern road trip journeys is a National Lakeshore Road Trip to visit 2 of the best kayaking trips in the US , Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a spectacularly beautiful area in the most northern part of Wisconsin that has a 12-mile stretch of mainland rocky cliffs with sea caves and a chain of 21 islands.

It also has the distinction of having the most lighthouses in the USA.

A kayak tour of the mainland sea caves will take you to the prettiest spots around the reddish sandstone shoreline.

You will cruise through incredible caves in turquoise water and can also hike the Lakeshore Trail through old-growth forest for a different vantage point.

On your way to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, break up the drive with a day at Porcupine Mountains State Park where you’ll find waterfalls, tons of hiking trails, and gorgeous views, especially for fall foliage.

It adds an extra hour of drive time but it’s completely worth it.

When you arrive in Munising, you’ll be treated to Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore’s towering multi-colored cliffs, bright blue waters, and hidden caves.

On a kayak tour, you can paddle to Lovers Leap Arch, Chapel Rock, Battleship Row, and sea caves. Or hike the Chapel Loop Trail to get even more incredible views. 

But this place isn’t all about the rocks. Don’t miss Twelvemile Beach for a traditional beach day or enjoy the sunset at Sandpoint beach.

And you’ll also find beautiful waterfalls at Munising Falls and Miner’s Falls. 

This road trip in the Midwest takes approximately 6 hours of driving.

Plan at least 4 days to be able to do daily activities and a week to enjoy at a more leisurely pace.

Kansas City, Omaha + Des Moines Road Trip Loop

From Sage of Everyday Wanderer

There are many things to love about Kansas City — flowing fountains, tree-lined boulevards, and the world’s best barbeque.

So before you head north on this road trip loop through America’s Heartland, be sure you’ve hit all of the highlights in the Chiefs Kingdom. 

Start with the Liberty Memorial. This 217-foot tall limestone tower surrounded by acres of green space honors those who perished in World War I and is home to the only museum dedicated to the Great War.

It’s also one of the best places to view the Kansas City skyline. 

Then head to the Country Club Plaza where you can shop, dine, and admire Spanish-inspired architecture and several of the city’s most renowned fountains.

Then stroll through the sculpture garden, explore the glass maze, and snap a selfie with one of four, oversized badminton shuttlecocks at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art.

And you certainly won’t want to leave town without eating your fill of Kansas City barbeque .

The next stop is Nebraska’s biggest city, Omaha, about three hours to the north.

Walk across the Missouri River – a natural border between Nebraska and Iowa – on the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

Then enjoy The RiverFront connecting river to Downtown Omaha with lush green space, pet-friendly areas, a sculpture garden, and more.

Fuel up at a cafe or eatery in the Old Market, and don’t miss the world-renowned Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium.

The capital city of Des Moines is about two hours east of Omaha.

Stretch your legs after the drive by wandering through Pappajohn Sculpture Park or strolling through the botanical garden.

Tour the gold-domed capitol building, and learn more about Iowa’s biggest city with an interactive scavenger hunt.

Outdoor enthusiasts will want to hike or bike the Des Moines River Trail, and foodies will want to compare the barbeque at Flying Mango to what they enjoyed in Kansas City.

On the way back to Kansas City, stop in Pella. With its working grain windmill, Dutch bakeries, and thousands of tulips in the spring, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to the Netherlands while exploring the middle of America.

580  miles.

We recommend enjoying this Midwest road trip itinerary over the course of a week, in order to allow about 2 days per city.

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

You might also like: 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

You might also like: Road Trip with Kids: 15 Essentials to Pack

Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

Read next: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

You might also like: Best Hiking in the Midwest – 16 Cool Hikes You’ll Love Denver to Moab Road Trip: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 27 Awesome Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio You Can’t Miss Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Stops Along the Way 26 Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

12 Unique Weekend Trips In The Midwest

Travelers can indulge their sense of curiosity and adventure while enjoying typical small-town hospitality with a visit to these 12 Midwest States.

The mere mention of the American Midwest recalls images of rolling farmland, rugged landscapes, and a pioneer past. However, the modern reality of Middle America is as dynamic as it is charming. On a single weekend, travelers can indulge their sense of curiosity and adventure while enjoying typical small-town hospitality with a visit to these Midwest states . Whether visitors seek culture, nature, outdoor activities, or history, they can find it in America’s heartland. The region is full of things to do year-round. Autumn, however, is a special time, as the grasslands turn golden, and the forests burst with red and auburn hues. Many of the traditional dishes here are hearty and served hot, perfect for enjoying in crisp fall weather.

Take a weekend away and enjoy the dynamic intersection of the modern and traditional that characterizes the Midwest. A plethora of adventures and unique treats await travelers to the geographic heart of the United States.

12 Chicago By Boat And Scenic Grandview Drive In Illinois

The Midwest was shaped by river travel and trade, so travelers get a unique experience by seeing Chicago, the region’s leading city, by boat. Take a Chicago River or Lake Michigan cruise at sunset to learn about the city’s history and architecture and to enjoy the skyline in all its glory. Visitors should also indulge in the local specialties, including deep-dish pizza and hot dogs overloaded with creative toppings. After a day in the city , escape into nature on blissful Grand View Drive in Peoria, Illinois . Constructed in 1903, this scenic drive and hike offers panoramic views of the Chicago River Valley and is resplendent with fall colors in the autumn.

Related: 11 Interesting Things To Do In Illinois (That Aren't In Chicago)

11 White River State Park And Indianapolis Catacombs In Indiana

Adventurous travelers looking to get off the beaten path for a weekend should plan a visit to the Indianapolis Catacombs. Also known as the Market Street Catacombs, this network of underground tunnels was initially built for the storage and transport of goods below the expansive City Market and former Tomlinson Hall. Above ground and away from the city, Knobstone Trail is the longest walking trail in the state , but one of the least crowded, despite featuring amazing views of two state parks. The strenuous hike features steep relief and is best for experienced trekkers.

10 Iowa State Fair And The National Mississippi River Museum And Aquarium

It’s hard to overstate the Mississippi River’s role in making the Midwest region what it is today. Visitors can learn about this unique body of water and its vast ecosystem at the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium . Savvy travelers can pair this visit with a trip to the Iowa State Fair to get a taste of rural American life at its best. The Fair is an annual open-air event held at the end of summer, featuring livestock competitions, games, amusement rides, and food stalls. Visitors would be remiss to skip the local favorites like fried pork sandwiches and decadent sugar cream pie.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About A Scenic Road Trip From Omaha To Iowa City

9 The Badlands And The Prairie In Kansas

Kansas represents the quintessential Midwest landscape. To appreciate the vast stillness of America’s grassland region, a visit to Konza Prairie Biological Station is a must. This biological study area is partially open to visitors and includes a moderately difficult hike with a view of the Flint Hills and serene tall grass prairie below . Visitors seeking the opposite of a secluded and meditative prairie hike can dive into Kansas City’s raucous and energetic professional and semi-pro sports scene. Because Kansas has many sports teams, travelers can enjoy a wide range of sports entertainment . Major league baseball and soccer, NFL American football, and USA rugby division I sports are just a few options for sports lovers to get into the action. Visitors should sample local Kansas-style barbecue at a football tailgate party for a quintessential mid-American autumn tradition.

8 American Musical History And Mackinac Island In Michigan

Few places in America pulse with the nation’s vibrant musical history, like Detroit, Michigan. Travelers to the state should pay a visit to the Motown Historical Museum to take in the sounds and memories of the golden age of American popular music. After the museum, visitors should keep their dancing feet busy with a stroll in beautiful Mackinac Island State Park . The island is rich in history and natural beauty and was the second area to be designated an American National Park, after Yellowstone. The eponymous named local fudge is a sweet treat that should not be missed.

7 Minnesota’s Split Rock Lighthouse And Frederick R. Weisman Museum

Maritime aficionados may be pleasantly surprised to find a lighthouse away from the East and West coasts. Split Rock Lighthouse stands on the craggy coast of Lake Superior and has a colorful history. The view of Lake Superior from here is simply unbeatable. The Frederick R. Weisman Museum offers a very different but equally stunning view. The Museum was designed by renowned architect Frank O. Gehry and featured multiple curved silver faces and forms. The collection within is well worth an afternoon perusal. Travelers should also take a moment to taste the culture of Minnesota. The simply named hot dish, a stuffed and decadent version of the pot pie, is a local favorite worth savoring.

6 Meramec Caverns And Forest Park In Missouri

St. Louis is home to one of the largest urban parks in the US. At 1,300 acres, Forest Park is larger than New York’s Central Park and includes golf courses, museums, a theater, and multiple other amenities. Below ground, the adventure continues with a guided tour of Meramec Caverns, a limestone cave network with a height of 7 stories in some areas and many rare formations. Travelers with a hearty appetite should try the smokey-sweet St. Louis-style barbecue.

Related: Let's Talk Missouri: Why The Ozarks Aren't The Only Thing Worth Visiting In This State

5 First Nations History And Fontenelle Forest In Nebraska

The American heartland is an ideal place to explore the history and culture of the First Nations . Travelers to Nebraska are welcome to visit Winnebago, Santee, and Omaha reservations to experience the celebration of the powwow, purchase local handicrafts, visit a variety of museums, and take part in special experiences. For a magical experience in nature, visitors should spend time roaming Fontenelle Forest . Wooded paths and an adventure park for both laid-back and daring visitors.

4 Maah Daah Hey Trail System And Lake Sakakawea In North Dakota

The third-largest manmade lake in the US at 368,000 acres, Lake Sakakawea is a beautiful outdoor destination for active travelers. Camping, sailing, windsurfing, and hiking are available here, at the terminus of the 4,600 miles-long North Country National Scenic Trail that stretches to Vermont. Maah Daah Hey trail network , although much shorter, has a unique appeal. Offering 16 diverse trails for cyclist and equestrian visitors, the trail network runs through rolling prairie and steep, scraggly badlands.

Related: North Dakota Vs South Dakota: Which State Is Worth Visiting?

3 Ohio Freedom Center And Ashe Cave

In Ohio, spend the weekend learning about history at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center . The Center is dedicated to the Underground Railroad network that led many to freedom during the dark days of American slavery and forged discussions about the future of freedom and equality. Ashe Cave in Hocking Hills State Park includes a circular trail and a straight trail that is handicap accessible. Both trails lead to the mouth of the cave and a 100-foot waterfall. Ohio's visitors can enjoy Cincinnati chili, which is served over spaghetti noodles and topped with cheese.

2 Mount Rushmore, Wildlife, And Native American Foods In South Dakota

South Dakota is famous for Mount Rushmore, and the iconic landmark is well worth a visit for its natural majesty, as well as the gigantic heads of former US presidents, blasted into a sheer rock face. There are, however, many other unique experiences worth seeing here . Travelers can safely move amongst South Dakota’s diverse wildlife on scenic drives. Bear Country is a drive-through wildlife area where active, endearing, but certainly, wild bears frolic around visitors’ vehicles. Indulge in local Native American specialties like wasna , dried meat made of bison, elk, or deer, chokecherries, and animal fat.

1 Caverns And Cranberries In Wisconsin

Witches Gulch has been described as eerie and unsettling. The black limestone walls of the long narrow canyon are painted with green moss, and only a sliver of sky is visible above, creating a truly mysterious ambiance . The brief hike through the gulch is usually accessed as part of a Wisconsin Dells boat trip. A weekend in Wisconsin is made sweeter by a visit to a cranberry bog, as this state is the leading US producer of this tart-sweet fruit. Travelers who arrive in early autumn can get involved with a cranberry harvest and learn firsthand how these berries are cultivated. Travelers should also take the opportunity to try the cuisines brought to the area by the diverse waves of immigrants to the area, including rösti from Sweden and booyah stew, believed to be Belgian in origin.

20 Family-Friendly Weekend Getaways In The Midwest

We get it, you need a weekend getaway. Brownie points if it’s a kid-friendly getaway. If you live in the Midwest or plan on visiting, there are so many cool and fun travel options for parents and kids. If a family weekend getaway is in order, let the internet (and Scary Mommy) be your friend . No need to travel to exotic lands — explore the many Midwest family vacation spots where the shores of the Great Lakes reach five different states. Beyond the Great Lakes, the Midwest is covered with rivers, inland lakes, and absolutely stunning greenery offering boundless outdoor adventures . Looking for an urban retreat? The Midwest is home to some of the nation’s most exciting cities (hello Chicago!) with deep culture, adrenaline-pumping attractions (ever heard of Kings Island), and some of the best Children’s Museums and Zoos in the country!

Even if it’s only for a few days, here are some of the best spots you and your family will love. Because sometimes, we all deserve a retreat away from real-life (yup, kids included. It’s not like they’re enjoying remote learning in 2021 more than you are). So tell your youngsters to drop their cool toys , and tell your spouse to leave work emails alone — it’s time for a mini family vacation! Here are the best weekend getaways for families in the midwest!

Editor’s Note: Prices listed are per night. Prices may vary.

Family Weekend Getaway Ideas in the Midwest

Among nature.

Situated on a ridge overlooking Medora in the North Dakota Badlands, this cozy house is surrounded by sprawling vistas with only deer and chipmunks as neighbors (yet just 2 miles from town). Tiny Medora offers big fun with the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and the boot-scootin’ Medora Musical which is always live and outside at the Burning Hills Amphitheater. Swing by town to learn about President Roosevelt’s legacy of conservation before heading to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park (which is totally bike, horseback, car, and hiker friendly) to experience the simple beauty of the Badlands. Just a short hours drive away in Regents is the famed Enchanted Highway, a 32-mile stretch of two lane highway that features the world’s most expansive collection of larger-than- life scrap metal sculptures — a not to be missed experience.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of expansive pine trees, limestone cliffs, and flowing waterfalls in the Black Hills National Forest. Enjoy the seasonal beauty of Black Hills all year long at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge where visitors mountain bike, snowshoe, fly fish, and even tour the canyons on moonlit snowmobile rides. When ready for an adventure beyond the canyon, dig into the past with a guided tour of the Broken Boot Gold Mine, hit the slopes at Terry Peak, or see Mount Rushmore National Monument in person (just a scenic hour car ride away).

Take a family weekend trip to the  Cape Cod of the Midwest. Door County is a narrow peninsula (just 10 miles wide) sandwiched between Green Bay and Lake Michigan with tons to do and see. The expansive 300 miles of shoreline is home to 10 lighthouses, 5 state parks, and 30 beaches that have tons of all season outdoor activities. But exploring the peninsula’s picturesque coastal towns famous for community shrimp boils, art galleries, a not-be-missed maritime museum, and of course, cherry pie, is the real treat. The family- friendly Eagle Harbor Inn Bed & Breakfast overlooks the bay with private playgrounds and in-room kitchenettes averaging about $250 per night. Door County main streets continue to bustle all the winter with ice fishing and winter hiking. But the February Fish Creek Winter Festival is a real winter highlight with loads of hot chocolate to warm visitors on their candle-lit hikes through the ice carvings on display.

Winding through Minnesota and Wisconsin, the shores of the St. Croix River Valley have been welcoming Midwest weekend family visitors to its picturesque towns for ages. This 4- bedroom vacation rental (just over an hour drive from the twin cities) is the perfect hub for your family weekend visit to the St. Croix River Valley. Travel back in time with a vintage train ride through the valley (the fall color tours are especially popular) or dine down the river on a St. Croix River Cruise. Outdoor enthusiasts love the expansive Interstate State Park where swimming and hiking around gorges is just as popular as snowshoeing and cross country skiing. If you get the opportunity to visit the St. Croix River Valley in winter, make sure to check out the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival and the October Autumn Fest.

Live the laidback lake life at this Brainerd Lakes Region waterfront log cabin. Generations of families have been drawn to the great fishing, family water sports, and lakes galore — 450 of them to be exact. Shorelines are dotted with rustic main streets, state parks, hiking trails, and kitschy Paul Bunyan fun (check out the last from the past Paul Bunyan Land). Nestled on the shores of popular Gull Lake stay in this rustic 3 bedroom waterfront cabin which has a private beach and playground — so Mama can relax, too. With u-pick local farms, color tours, and outdoor winter adventures (dog sledding anyone?) the Brainerd Lakes Region is the perfect weekend family getaway in the lovely Midwest.

In The City

Home to over 10,000 animals and famed Zoology Conservationist Jack Hanna, the 583 acre Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is reason enough to make Columbus our family getaway destination. Make sure to book an open air safari at the Wilds where giraffes roam free and bring your swimsuits to cool off at the Zoombezi Water Park. Stroll the sidewalks of the famed Easton Town Center where shopping, nightlife, and dining merge next to the Marriott Courtyard Columbus Easton (where a night’s stay starts around $150 for four people). The full service hotel features an indoor pool and most importantly is just steps away from the LegoLand Discovery Center where you can build the day away.

For non-stop urban family fun look no further than Chicago. Shop the Magnificent Mile, hit up the windy city art scene (the Art institute of Chicago is free for kids under 14) or cheer on the Bears at famed Soldier Field. Check into the Renaissance Chicago Downtown overlooking the Chicago River. This upscale contemporary hotel will delight the design lover and is fully equipped with an indoor heated pool for the kids. Grab an obligatory Millenium Park Bean selfie which is just blocks away before catching a bird’s eye view of the city from the top of the Navy Pier ferris wheel (you will be shocked by how big Lake Michigan actually is). No visit to Chicago is complete without a taste of Chicago deep dish pizza from Giordano’s, before or after you visit the Adler Planetarium and Field Museum of Natural History.

Spark curiosity in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Who needs to visit a museum when you can stay in a fully restored Frank Lloyd Wright house that is actually on the national register of historic places for about $220 a night. The historic light-filled house features 3 bedrooms and a sleeping porch to accommodate up to 9 guests. If you are still inclined to visit a museum, head 3 miles to Harley Davidson Museum where you can sit on and start different motorcycles or digitally design your own. The fully hands on waterfront Discovery World Center uniquely focuses on freshwater sciences and technology featuring an aquarium, interactive exhibits, and learning labs for all ages. This lake shore city has more than a weekend’s worth of family activities from catching a Brewer’s games or a Sprecher’s Brewery and Soda Pop Tour to visiting the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and relaxing on the 15-acre Bradford Beach.

Close to the two-family vacation no brainers (a zoo and a children’s museum), The Omaha Marriott Downtown is the perfect vacation hub for the family (and prices start at just around $127 per night). Considered one of the nation’s top zoos, The Henry Dorly Zoo & Aquarium is known for the immersive habitats and interactive experiences (like stingray beach) that allow visitors to get up close to their animal residents. Mom, be sure to check out yoga in the aquarium for a unique Zen moment away from the kiddos. Let your littles learn and explore through the award- winning Omaha Children’s Museum or check out the Durham Museum in the renovated Omaha train station, don’t miss the 1940s soda fountain for authentic malts. Zip and climb away all that extra energy at TreeRush Adventures ropes course and zipline in nearby Fontenelle Forest if the kids still have energy to burn.

Show your race car lovers the real thing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. When you are ready to slow down the pace, head over to the five floors of interactive exhibits at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum (which is the world’s largest). Dig for dinos in the Dinosphere or play among the legends in the Outdoor Sports Experience. Stay at the unique Fort Harrison State Park Inn for about $150 per night, which sits inside the Fort Harrison State Park and is just 9 miles away from the Children’s Museum. Hit the 18-hole golf course or tour the park on horseback with the family, all of which the Inn can help you arrange.

No cars allowed on the historic Mackinac Island, where visitors are met at the ferry by bike rentals galore and horse-drawn carriages. Rock the afternoon away overlooking the Mackinac Harbor on the whitewashed porch of the Island House Hotel. With 94 guest rooms starting around $400 in season, the Island House Hotel features 2 restaurants and an indoor pool. Just steps away from The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House and the must-see Fort Mackinac, where the kids will love firing the real life cannon (just make sure to make a reservation). Rent bikes for the family (they even have tandem bikes and baby seats at some rentals) and work off all that fudge you inhaled at Ryba’s touring the limestone bluffs and scenic vistas of the Mackinac Island State Park, which encompasses much of the Island.

Kid-Friendly Resorts in the Midwest

Enjoy lake life relaxation with all the excitement of a resort at the Still Waters Resort on Table Rock Lake. The all lakefront condo resort (where prices start at around $100 per night) has accommodations from studios to 6 bedroom condos for any size family to comfortably stay. With 3 swimming pools, waterslides, a mini golf course, kayaks, paddle boards, volleyball courts and more all included with your stay, there isn’t much reason to leave the resort. But when you do, head over to the Silver Dollar Water and Amusement Park less than three miles away. Enjoy an evening of family entertainment at one of Branson’s live shows or walk through history at the Titanic Museum.

Nothing says getting nature like a treehouse cabin at the Natura Treescape Resort. This unique Wisconsin Dells property features a natural water park lagoon and sleeping quarters to accommodate any family’s needs from tiny houses and full treehouse cabins to standard guest rooms with bunks for the littles (prices start as low at $50 per night depending on time of year and accommodations). While visiting the Dells of the Wisconsin River, discover 14,000-year- old sandstone rock formations and private islands during a Dells Army Duck Ride. Get a little shopping and noshing done at the Bavarian village (don’t miss the giant Glockenspiel). And of course no visit to the Dells would be complete without a trip to the 51 water slides at Noah’s Ark Waterpark — the largest waterpark in the country

The premier midwest ski resort with its whopping 58 downhill slopes (28 lit so you can hit the slopes under the stars), multiple kid-friendly carpet lifts, and 25 km of cross country ski trails, Crystal Mountain is the perfect midwestern winter weekend getaway for any family. Kids can’t ski? Send them to ski school while you enjoy a Nirvana Stress Relief Massage in the 11,000 foot, state of the art Crystal Spa. Of course activities on the mountain are endless — did we mention Fat Tire Biking? But when there isn’t snow on the ground the Crystal Mountain is open to hikers and trail bikers, with outdoor yoga and even a 38-hole championship golf course. When you are ready to come down the mountain, Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City (known for its annual Cherry Festival, wineries, and amazing food) are just a short drive away.

Cool Midwest Family Getways

Get your kicks on Route 66 and bring the fam for a trip down the great American highway. Grab vintage diner and gas station memorabilia at the Route 66 Visitor Center before checking out all the classic cars at the Route 66 Car Museum. Step back into the 1950s with all of today’s tech (hello WiFi and Cable TV) at the super comfortable and centrally located Route 66 Best Western Rail Haven, where rooms start at around $100 per night. Take a break from all the vintage kitsch and head underground with a tram ride through the Fantastic Caverns — one of the natural wonders of the US. Don’t forget to wander through the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden before diving into the educational Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (which was voted American’s best aquarium).

Next to an active train line in a converted 1914 freight station, Riley’s Railhouse Bed and Breakfast is a train lover’s dream come true. Sleep in an old rail car, watch trains roll past, and peruse the Riley private collection of railway antiques and memorabilia. For more rail fun, walk through the Taltree Arboretum to check out its award- winning Railway Garden. When ready for a train-break, feel the sand between your toes at the Indiana Dunes National Park after a swim in Lake Michigan. Catch a show with the family (both the local 4th Street Theater and the 49er Drive-in will keep the family entertained ’till bedtime) before heading to a tasting at the Running Vines Winery.

A family weekend in Frankenmuth Michigan (known as the little Bavaria of the Midwest) pretty much requires a stay at the German-themed Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth. The Inn itself is enough to entertain the kids with an arcade, indoor mini golf course, a kid’s play area and 4 indoor pools (one of which is only for kids). It’s Christmas all year long in Frankenmuth, especially at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland where your kids will love picking out an ornament in this bigger-than-Costco superstore. Swing a few clubs at the Fortress Golf Club or browse the old world cobblestone paths of the Riverplace Shops. Take a moment to honor all our military heroes and peruse the medals of honor collection and flight gear at Michigan’s Military & Space Heroes Museum. Top off the Michigan Bavarian experience filling hungry bellies at the famous Zehnder’s, which has been serving families its special fried chicken dinner for over 160 years.

You could spend your weekend getaway shopping at the world’s largest indoor mall with the fam. Or you can watch colors come to life at the Crayola Experience, laugh through a 4D movie at the Lego Discovery Center, and scream down the Spongebob Squarepants Rock Bottom Plunge at Nickelodeon Universe inside the Mall of America. Fill up at one of the 50 dining options before visiting the sea lions at the Sea Life Aquarium. And when your family is tired of mall life, travel the 1.2 miles from the Mall of America to the Great Wolf Lodge. The ultimate indoor waterpark resort will make a splash with kids of all ages. Back on dry land, kids can conquer the climbing wall, bowl a strike at the ten paws alley, or tackle the Howlers Peak Ropes Course. The all-suite resort offers lodge themed rooms and water park weekend getaways across the midwest in locations like Traverse City, Kansas City, and Sandusky.

Wichita’s bustling festival calendar attracts family weekend visitors throughout the year. With a spring, summer, or fall festival almost every weekend why not plan your visit to Wichita around the annual Blocktoberfest (beer, food, and games for the kids), the alfresco Autumn & Art Fair, or Wichita’s most famous event the June Riverfest. Follow the water to the riverfront Drury Plaza Hotel (starting around $150 per night) which is smack dab in the middle of downtown Wichita for easy access to all the festival locations and must see stops like the Cowtown Museum (bringing life in the 1870s to life), the Keeper of the Plains Monument, the Exploration Place Science Museum, and the Botanical Gardens.

Cincinnati is overflowing with culture. It’s actually hard to choose where a family should start between the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Newport Aquarium, and MLB Reds Hall of Fame. Not to mention the outdoor play havens of the Smale Riverfront Park and Botanical Gardens. But really, what’s tempting is to skip the culture in downtown Cincinnati and head to 20 minutes from downtown to Mason, Ohio to Kings Island Theme Park. Scream your way down the brand new Orion Rollercoaster or introduce your littles to junior roller coasters on the Great Pumpkin Coaster or the Woodstock Express. Cool down from the roller coaster thrills at the adjacent Soak City waterpark. When the day is done, gather the family around the outdoor fire pit at the newly constructed Marriott Courtyard Cincinnati Mason (perfectly situated between the downtown Cincinnati culture and the Mason thrills) to recount the all your family getaway adventures.

Looking to live more of your best life traveling and at home? Check out all our favorite products, services, and some of the best Mom advice you can find here .

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This article was originally published on Sep. 29, 2020

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Fun Midwest Road Trips For Your Bucket List

March 25, 2021 by //  by  Midwest Explored 1 Comment

Looking for fun Midwest Road Trips to explore? Then take a look at this list full of the best Midwest road trips.

I was born and raised in the Midwest and I know there is so much to enjoy about each state.

That’s why I’ve found a unique and fun road trip in the Midwest for each Midwestern state.

On these road trips you’ll drive down the iconic Route 66, sample the best restaurants in Nebraska, admire natural wonders, and explore famous ghost towns.

So here are 15 fun Midwest road trips for your bucket list!

Route 66 Through Illinois For History Lovers

• Bloomington
• Collinsville

You’ll start your Midwest road trip through Illinois’ portion of Route 66 in Chicago.

Make sure to grab a picture of the iconic Route 66 sign in Chicago that marks the start of the famous highway.

From there, you’ll pass through Joliet and head into Bloomington. You’ll want to check out the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Head out of Bloomington towards Litchfield. On the way, you’ll pass through some amazing kitschy road side attractions and unique food stands.

In Litchfield, grab something to eat at the iconic Doc’s Soda Fountain before experiencing the Sky View Drive-in Theater.

You’ll finish your trip in Collinsville where you should consider stopping at the Rabbit Ranch as you end your journey on the iconic Route 66.

Natural Wonders Of Iowa Road Trip

• Dunnings Spring Park
• Effigy Mounds National Monument
• Maquoketa Caves State Park
• Wildcat Den State Park

For your Midwest road trip through Iowa’s natural wonders, you’ll start at Dunning’s Springs Park.

Dunning’s Springs Park is home to one of the best waterfalls in Iowa .

From there, head to Effigy Mounds National Monument. This national monument is home to over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans from 20 different Nations.

Next, you’ll make your way to Maquoketa Caves State Park.

Maquoketa Caves State Park is over 300 acres and has the most caves of any Iowa State Park.

Many of them you can walk through and hike out to see.

End your trip at Wildcat Den State Park. It is a beautiful park known for it’s massive rock features.

You can take hikes and admire the ‘Devil’s Punch Bowl’, ‘Fat Man’s Squeeze’, and ‘Steamboat Rock’.

Post-Rock Scenic Byway, Kansas

• Limestone Native American Posts
• Wilson Lake
• The Garden of Eden

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that is 18 miles long.

It winds through the Smoky Hills and is named for the unique limestone rock posts Native American’s used to build their fences, homes, and other structures.

Along the route, you’ll be able to admire these unique limestone Native American posts. Four of them have had faces carved into them by California artist, Fred Whitman.

One of the main parts of the byway is the area surrounding Wilson Lake.

There are several scenic stops you can take to admire Wilson Lake, or you can get out and explore and hike near the lake.

The scenic byway ends in the town of Lucas, which is home to the famous ‘Garden of Eden’.

The ‘Garden of Eden’ is a National Historic Place that features over 150 folk art statues.

S.P. Dinsmoor was a Civil War veteran who created the folk art statues in the late 1800s.

Dinsmoor and his art made Lucas an artists town and it is now home to several different artist collectives and unique galleries.

It is the perfect stopping point for your road trip in the Midwest.

Ghost Towns Of Missouri For A Spooky Road Trip

• Possum Trot
• Georgia City

For those looking for a spookier adventure, consider a road trip in the Midwest full of Missouri ghost towns.

You’ll start your road trip in Arlington, a once lively town on Route 66. Arlington was established in the 1860s but was abandoned less than 100 years later.

Just south of Arlington is Bloodland. The oddly named town became obsolete in the 1940s, but a few buildings still remain.

From Bloodland you’ll head to the town of Possum Trot. All that remains of the former town is a church and a home that have long stood abandoned.

Finish your trip in Georgia City. The only thing left of this once hopping town is the cemetery. Many of the town’s original residents are burried there.

A drive through the ghost towns of Missouri is sure to make for an interesting Midwest road trip.

The Ohio River Scenic Byway, Indiana

The Ohio River Scenic Byway runs in three states, with 300 miles running through Indiana.

There are three historic towns you’ll pass through that offer charming experiences in each.

Begin your road trip in Vevay, named the 4th Coolest Small Town in America, and for good reason. There you can visit a casino, have a delicious meal, and even go zip-lining.

From Vevay you’ll continue down the scenic byway to the charming town of Madison. You’ll be able to sample locally made cider, go hiking, and enjoy small town charm.

Finish your Ohio River Scenic Byway road trip in the small town of Newburgh.

In Newburgh, walk the Riverwalk, grab a bite to eat, and explore unique shops.

Small Towns Of Minnesota Road Trip

• Taylors Falls

There are so many cute small towns in Minnesota that it makes for the perfect Midwest road trip.

You’ll start your trip in Ely, which is home to one of the best waterfalls in Minnesota , the Kawishiwi Falls.

From there, head to Pipestone, which is home to the Pipestone National Monument. At the National Monument you’ll be able to hike and learn more about Native American history.

After you leave Pipestone, continue on to Winona. Winona is perfect for a romantic getaway if you are a couple that enjoys festivals.

The small town of Winona is known for it’s frequent and unique festivals. So no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll probably get to enjoy one.

End you’re small towns road trip in Taylors Falls.

It’s the perfect place to end your trip because you’ll be able to decompress and enjoy the great outdoors.

Lighthouses Of Michigan Road Trip For Coastal Fun

• Big Red Lighthouse
• Big Sable Point Lighthouse
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Fort Gratiot Point Light Station

Start your exploration of Michigan’s lighthouses at the famous Big Red Lighthouse in Holland. Holland is great for a weekend getaway in Michigan , so consider spending a little time enjoying the town while you’re there.

From there, travel North to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is in Ludington, which is also where you can find one of the best beaches in Michigan .

Next, you’ll stop at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, one of the best lighthouses in Michigan , which is on Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island is another great place to explore, so plan to spend some time to tour both the lighthouse and the nearby area.

End your trip at Michigan’s first lighthouse, the Fort Gratiot Point Light Station.

It first opened in 1825 and is a popular lighthouse for tourist visits, so plan enough time there to get the full experience. The lighthouses of Michigan road trip in the Midwest is a great way to experience Michigan coastal life.

Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway, North Dakota

• Assumption Abbey

If you’re looking for Midwest road trips that explore the hidden parts of Midwestern States, then consider traveling down the Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway in North Dakota.

The best part about this road trip is that it is mostly full of beautiful scenic views of North Dakota.

As you drive along, you’ll come into the small town of Taylor. Taylor is known for it’s yearly horse festivals.

If you stop by during one of those festivals, you’re in for a real treat.

Next you’ll pass into Richardton, which is home to the beautiful Assumption Abbey.

While you’re there, make sure you take the time to tour this stunning abbey that is seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

As you finish you’re road trip, you’ll find Salem Sue.

Salem Sue is the World’s Largest Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture. It was built in 1974 using $40,000 in donations from local farmers and residents.

It is a unique way to end your Midwestern travel through scenic North Dakota.

Ohio Waterfalls Midwest Road Trip s

• Mohican State Park
• Brandywine Falls
• Lanterman’s Falls
• Hocking Hills State Park

Most of Ohio’s best waterfalls can be found in state parks, so start your road trip in Mohican State Park.

At Mohican State Park there are two waterfalls you can see. The Big and Little Lyons Falls, both of which flow over deep sandstone gorges.

Next head to Cuyahoga National Park to admire the Brandywine Falls, home to one of the best waterfalls in Ohio .

The falls are a popular spot to visit and cascade down into the river over 65 feet. The hike to view them is fairly easy, so it’s a great stop on any waterfall Midwest road trips.

Continue on to Lanternman’s Falls, which is actually in Youngstown Ohio’s metro park.

Make sure while you’re there you take the time to explore and enjoy the best things to do in Youngstown Ohio .

End your trip at one of my favorite spots, Hocking Hills State Park.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the best hiking trails in Ohio , and a lot of them lead you to one of the three waterfalls there.

Exploring Ohio’s waterfalls is a great way to see some of the most beautiful spots in my home state.

State Parks of Wisconsin Midwwest Road Trip For Outdoor Adventures

• Peninsula State Park
• Copper Falls State Park
• Pattison State Park
• Devil’s Lake State Park

There are tons of State Parks in Wisconsin, but for this road trip, I have found some of the best ones for you to explore.

Begin your journey at Peninsula State Park. It is the state’s second most popular park and has a mix of challenging and easy hikes, so there is something for everyone.

If you are up for the challenge, hike the 2 mile Eagle Trail to admire breathtaking limestone cliffs.

Continue your trip to Copper Falls State Park.

Copper Falls State Park is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin , but not the only state park on this trip to have waterfalls.

From Copper Falls, head to Pattinson State Park.

Pattinson State Park is home to Wisconsin’s biggest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls. The hike is fairly easy to view it, so I definitely suggest taking the time to do the hike.

Finish your Midwest road trip in Devil’s Lake State Park.

This State Park is known for its many unique rock formations and this has made it one of Wisconsin’s most popular State Parks.

When you plan this road trip, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore all the State Parks and what they have to offer.

Michigan’s Covered Bridges Trail

• Fallasburg Covered Bridge
• Ada Covered Bridge
• Langley Covered Bridge Historic Site
• Holz-Brucke Bridge

Michigan has its own Covered Bridges Trail and its a great way to explore Michigan. You’ll start your trip in Lowell at the Fallasburg Covered Bridge.

Fallasburg is one of the only four covered bridges in Michigan that is still open to vehicle traffic.

Tourists have been coming to view this 100 foot covered bridge since it was built in 1871.

Right by the Fallasburg bridge is the Ada Covered Bridge.

The Ada Covered Bridge is only open to foot traffic and takes you across the Thornapple River onto Bronson Street in Ada.

From there, you’ll travel to the Langley Covered Bridge, which is the longest wooden covered bridge in Michigan.

End your tour of Michigan’s covered bridges in the cute Michigan small town of Frankenmuth.

Frankenmuth is home to the Holz-Brucke Bridge which was actually built in 1980.

It may be a newer covered bridge, but it is absolutely worth a stop on your Midwest road trip!

Best Restaurants A Midwest Road Trip Through Nebraska For Foodies

• The Chocolate Bar, Grand Island
• The Mixing Bowl, Gering
• Sehnert’s Bakery, McCook
• Shirley’s Diner, Omaha
• UNL Dairy Store, Lincoln

Nebraska is full of amazing restaurants, so start in Grand Island and The Chocolate Bar. The stand out on this bakery’s menu is their Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake, but you’ll love anything you order.

Next head to Gering and sample German classics with a bit of Midwestern flair at The Mixing Bowl.

The Mixing Bowl is open for breakfast and lunch and the locals absolutely love it, so you know it’s going to be good.

After breakfast or lunch at The Mixing Bowl, head to Sehnert’s Bakery in McCook for a delicious pastry, a gourmet sandwich, or a cup of espresso.

For dinner, you can’t beat Shirley’s Diner in Omaha.

Shirley’s is a family owned and operated classic 1950s style diner. You’ll get to enjoy Nebraska favorites to the sounds of good old fashioned Rock N Roll.

End your foodie Midwest road trip at the UNL Dairy Store for a sweet treat.

UNL Dairy Store offers ice cream that is handmade by local university students as well as other sweet dairy treats.

It is a perfect way to end one of the most unique Midwest road trips in Nebraska.

Haunted South Dakota Midwest Road Trip

• Mount Marty College
• Gitchi Manitou
• Scotty Phillip Cemetery
• Historic Fairmont Hotel

South Dakota is home to some well known haunted location, making it the perfect place to have a haunted road trip.

Start your haunted road trip at Mount Marty College.

Mount Marty College has been home to ghost tales ever since the death of a maintenance worker in 1936. Residents in Whitby Hall report apparitions, scratchings, and strange noises.

From there head to Gitchi Manitou for some newer haunting rumors.

Gitchi Manitou is where six Sioux Falls teens were reportedly murdered in the 1970s while camping and now local legend says the teens haunt the area.

Your next stop is the Scotty Philip Cemetery.

Its no surprise that an old cemetery would have rumors of being haunted. The cemetery has a sad story of a father surviving his five children, and now locals believe he haunts the grounds mourning his children.

End your haunted road trip at the famous Historic Fairmont Hotel in Deadwood South Dakota.

Ghost tours are offered daily or if you’re brave, you can spend the night and wait for an opportunity to experience the ghostly happenings yourself.

This will definitely be one of the most interesting Midwest road trips you can take!

Roadsides Attractions Of Illinois For A Kitschy Midwest Road Trip

• Superman Square, Metropolis
• Brook’s Catsup Bottle, Collinsville
• The Gemini Giant, Wilmington
• De Immigrant Windmill, Fulton

Illinois has some great hidden gems in the Midwest , like kitschy roadside attractions, and a lot of them are on the famous Route 66. So you can combine this road trip with my Route 66 one!

Begin your kitschy road trip in Metropolis where you can admire the Superman Square. Metropolis claims to be the home of the iconic super hero, and takes that very seriously.

From there, head to Collinsville where you can view the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, the Brook’s Catsup Bottle.

At one time, it was the water tower for the town, but now it is a fun kitschy roadside attraction.

Next, head to the Launching Pad restaurant in Wilmington.

Outside of the restaurant stands a large Mid Century statue known as the Gemini Giant. Its a really fun spot to grab a bite to eat and a fun selfie!

Finish your kitschy road trip by viewing the De Immigrant Windmill in Fulton.

The De Immigrant Windmill was originally constructed in the Netherlands but now stands proudly in this cute Illinois town.

Natural Wonders of Missouri Road Trip

• Clifty Creek Natural Bridge
• Johnson Shut-ins
• Elephant Rock State Park
• Grand Gulf State Park

Missouri is the perfect state for Midwest road trips that focus on natural wonders, because it has plenty!

I suggest starting your road trip at the Clifty Creek Natural Bridge.

You’ll have to take a 2.5 mile hike, but at the end you’ll get great views of the natural rock bridge.

From there, head to the Johnson Shut-ins.

The Johnson Shut-ins are volcanic rock that are stuck in the East Fork of the Black River. They make for a great way to spend a hot summer day, because you can go swimming in the area.

Continue to Elephant Rock State Park to see it’s namesake, the Elephant Rock.

The rock formation was created with 1.5 billion-year-old granite that you can now climb and admire.

Finish your journey through Missouri’s natural wonders at the Grand Gulf State Park.

Locals refer to Grand Gulf as the “Little Grand Canyon” and was formed by a collapsed cave system. It’s a great way to end your Midwestern travels.

Packing List For Your Midwest Road Trips

If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to the Midwest, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when taking Midwest road trips. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

his  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

You can place it under your hiking clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Illinois.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you. 

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find  filter replacements here. 

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when hiking This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

It is very affordable and is available in many color options for you to choose from. The fact that it folds down into a zippered pouch will make it easy to pack.

No matter which of these Midwest road trips you decide to do, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. They all offer a unique and fun way to explore the Midwest.

Have you been on any of these road trips or ones like them? If you haven’t, which one do you want to take first?

I’d love to hear about your Midwestern travels in the comments!

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Best Hotels For A Moms’ Weekend Getaway In The Midwest

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When it comes to finding the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest, there’s no shortage of options for those seeking adventure, relaxation, and fun. Whether you’re a group of friends looking to escape for a few days of spa treatments and shopping, or a mom wanting quality time with her daughter in nature, the Midwest has something for everyone! From charming small towns like Galena and Mackinac Island to bustling cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, there are countless destinations waiting to be explored. In this article, we’ll cover some of the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest for you to plan your next unforgettable stay. Let’s hit the road on an exciting adventure to discover the best that the Midwest has to offer! 

Best Moms’/Girls’ Weekend Getaways in Illinois

Illinois has plenty of options for an unforgettable getaway with your closest friends or beloved mom! From the cozy, cobblestone streets of Galena to the art, history, and culture in Chicago, there’s truly something for everyone here. Please keep reading for our suggestions! 

READ NEXT : 14 Best Moms’ Getaways / Girls’ Trip Ideas In The U.S

The Langham, Chicago

​​Research your next stay at The Langham, Chicago, using Hotels.com now!

Get a discount on your room or suite at The Langham, Chicago, by using Expedia today!

As one of the best destinations for moms and their closest gal pals, The Langham, Chicago, boasts unrivaled amenities that cater to your every need! From the moment you step foot into this stunning hotel, you’re transported to a world of luxury and elegance.

Each room and suite is designed to transport you to a world of refined luxury, spacious enough to accommodate four best friends together! Additionally, the Executive Club Rooms and Suites offer exclusive access to The Langham Club lounge, where you can bask in personalized service and culinary offerings.

Why Moms Love It

Step into Chuan Spa and let the skilled therapists take care of you with their bespoke treatments, restoring your mind, body, and spirit. Escape the city’s hustle and bustle by taking a dip in the indoor pool or soaking in the luscious hydrotherapy hot tub. And for those who love to keep fit, the modern fitness studio is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. 

When it comes to dining , TRAVELLE is a culinary haven with farm-to-table ingredients. Sip on cocktails in the chic bar, and finally, save time to indulge in the signature Langham Afternoon Tea . Here you can enjoy sweet and savory bites in the elegant Pavilion, overlooking the beautiful Chicago River. 

READ NEXT : Stay at The Langham, Chicago, for an Exciting Chicago Vacation with Kids

Goldmoor Inn & Resort

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Check out Expedia to save on your next stay at Goldmoor Inn & Resort! 

Nestled high above the picturesque banks of the Mississippi River is the historic Goldmoor Inn & Resort , a bed & breakfast that offers the ultimate escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Widely considered one of the best getaways for couples in the Midwest, Goldmoor Inn & Resort is also a lovely option for a girls’ weekend getaway – or a quiet getaway for Moms to recharge alone.

The Goldmoor Inn features 13 luxurious suites , each featuring whirlpool tubs, fireplaces, and other cozy amenities like kitchenettes or balconies. And what’s better than waking up to the smell of freshly prepared breakfast delivered right to your door? Whether you’re traveling solo or with your bestie, let Goldmoor Inn & Resort treat you to one of the best getaways for moms in Illinois.

Unwind and rejuvenate with a massage in the Goldmoor Inn Spa . Whether you prefer individual or side-by-side massages, their expert therapists will help you melt away your stress. For a fun afternoon outing with the girls, head to downtown Galena , just six miles north of the Goldmoor Inn. Explore the “Best Main Street in America,” as Midwest Living calls it, filled with art, clothing, handmade chocolates, crafts, and more! 

The Peninsula Chicago

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Enjoy fantastic savings on your next vacation to The Peninsula Chicago thanks to Expedia!

Live the ultimate high life of luxury at The Peninsula Chicago ! Located right on Michigan Avenue, this upscale hotel boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Here, you’ll be greeted with every imaginable amenity, including easy-to-use tablets that control everything, from the giant televisions to the doorbell. With rooms and suites , some of which can sleep up to 6 people, you and your girlfriends can have a fun sleepover after a girls’ night out!

Why Moms Love It  

Stay fit at their state-of-the-art fitness center with panoramic city views, or take a dip in their indoor half-Olympic size swimming pool located on the 19th floor with views of Lake Michigan. For the ultimate weekend getaways near Michigan, head to The Peninsula Spa on the 19th and 20th floors of the hotel. You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world as you indulge in their luxurious treatments with girls’ spa treatments.

On-site, there are four fantastic restaurants and an amazing rooftop bar, including The Lobby’s popular weekend afternoon tea and Pierrot Gourmet’s breakfast pastries and quiches. Then, Shanghai Terrace’s dim sum and Peking Duck entrée are also a hit! Finally, Z Bar features global cuisine and craft cocktails to enjoy under the city skyline views.

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

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Book your next family getaway to Four Seasons Hotel Chicago on Expedia today! 

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago is the epitome of luxury and relaxation, making it one of the best moms’ and girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest. The elegant lobby also immediately sets the tone for your stay, with its sleek marble floors and sparkling chandeliers.

Choose between a selection of rooms, suites, or luxury residences that can accommodate up to four people through king-sized or double beds. Undoubtedly, you’ll feel like you’re in your own luxurious oasis! 

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers a range of girls’ weekend getaway ideas to make your trip truly special. For example, you could enjoy water experiences with the hotel’s yacht charters. Or, indulge in the ultimate wellness retreat at the spa , followed by a visit to the pool or the fitness center. 

Looking for some entertainment? Catch a weekly performance by the hotel’s resident musicians, with varied musical styles to suit all tastes. There’s also award-winning dining .

Best Moms’/Girls’ Weekend Getaways in Michigan

Michigan is an enchanting state that fits the bill for every type of travel enthusiast. The Great Lakes State offers diverse landscapes, from beaches to sand dunes to lush green forests and picturesque hillsides. Plus, the state’s small towns and huge cities offer a plethora of great choices if you’re looking for a girls’ or moms’ weekend getaway in the Midwest. Here are some options!

The Grand Hotel

The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island transports guests to a bygone era of glamour and grace! With its stunning Victorian architecture, breathtaking lake views, and luxurious amenities, this historic hotel has everything you need to unwind and rejuvenate with your favorite ladies.

Accommodations range from rooms with king-sized beds to two-bedroom suites. Or, even four-bedroom cottages that could easily sleep up to 8 people. Plus, they all have gorgeous views of The Jewel Golf Course, the Straits of Mackinac, and the Mackinac Bridge. This means that you and your mom’s squad can stick together throughout the whole experience, making memories that will last a lifetime!

The Grand Hotel offers endless girls’ weekend activities to explore, from hiking and biking around the island to golfing on the renowned Jewel Golf Course . Partake in a game of pickleball, or take a behind-the-scenes tour of the hotel’s gardens. And don’t miss out on the Esther Williams Swimming Pool, an iconic spot for a refreshing dip or a midday bite at the poolside bar. With 13 restaurants and bars to choose from, you’ll always be spoiled for choice!

When it’s time to pamper yourself, head to Astor’s Salon and Spa . Here, you can also indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments. Finally, make sure to visit Woodlands Activity Center , which offers an 18-hole miniature golf course. Not to mention, pickleball, shuffleboard, and a brand new greenhouse. It’s the perfect end to one of the best Midwest girlfriend getaways to Michigan! 

Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection

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Looking for a girls’ getaway for stressed moms that are both relaxing and adventurous? Your answer is Inn at Bay Harbor, Autograph Collection! Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, 4 hours away from Detroit and less than 6 hours from Chicago, this picturesque hotel offers a serene retreat perfect for bonding with your closest friends!

With guest rooms with king-sized beds, suites with separate living room areas, and cottages that can sleep up to six people, the Inn’s accommodations provide ample space for you and your gal pals to stay comfortably. 

The Inn’s stunning lakeshore is the ideal place to unwind and relax. Get some vacation tan together at the outdoor waterfront pool, also complete with the privacy of a Poolside Cabana !

Or, visit Bay Harbor Golf Club. Guests can also head to The Spa and indulge in a luxurious treatment. When it comes to fitness, there’s also a fitness center , a private yoga room, and weekly fitness classes .

Best Moms’/Girls’ Weekend Getaways in Minnesota

When it comes to the best moms’/girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest, Minnesota is also an absolute gem. With its stunning natural landscapes, charming towns, and vibrant local scene, there are tons of exciting opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Keep reading to learn more!  

RELATED : 9 Best Moms’ Spa Getaways Near DC

Madden’s on Gull Lake

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Adventure-seeking guests are in for a treat when they plan their weekend escape at Madden’s on Gull Lak e – the ultimate destination for the best moms’ and girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest! Less than 3 hours from Minneapolis, this 1,000-acre peninsula resort is also nestled in the heart of the Brainerd Lakes Area.

It also offers a variety of luxury accommodations . This also includes charming cottages, spacious 2-bedroom cabins, and fully-equipped multi-bedroom houses that can fit up to 16 people. 

Spend your days lounging by one of the resort’s three pristine sandy Gull Lake beaches or two outdoor pools. For a more intimate experience, take a dip in the indoor pools at Madden Inn or Wilson Bay. Madden’s on Gull Lake is also the ultimate golfer’s paradise , set against the stunning backdrop of Minnesota’s Gull Lake. Moms can also unwind at the spa, featuring personalized treatments that cater to their every need. The resort’s fitness center is also at your disposal, free of charge, so you can also stay on top of your wellness goals.

As the sun sets, indulge in a fine dining experience at one of the resort’s best restaurants, boasting signature menus and breathtaking views.

Bluefin Bay & Surfside Resorts

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Looking for a girls’ weekend getaway that offers stunning lake views, luxurious accommodations, and a plethora of activities just 4 hours away from Minneapolis? Look no further than Bluefin Bay and Surfside Resorts on Lake Superior!  

Accommodations range from rooms with king-sized beds to one or two-bedroom suites across the entire property. Stay in the coastal, contemporary townhomes at Surfside on Lake Superior that can sleep up to 8 people. Or, if you’re looking for something a bit more rustic, the warm, inviting luxury log homes at Temperance Landing on Lake Superior welcome you to the water’s edge in cozy style.

Photo Courtesy: Bluefin Bay Family of Resorts

Head to Waves of Superior Spa , where the natural surroundings inspire treatments and services that will restore your well-being and rejuvenate your spirit. Of course, no girls’ getaway is complete without some great dining options , and Bluefin Bay has you covered with three unique restaurants that offer something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic dinner or fancy night out at the Grille, a casual lunch at Coho Cafe, or some drinks and snacks at the Waves of Superior Cafe, you’ll find it all at Bluefin Bay! 

Book your next stay at Hotel Ivy using Hotels.com now! 

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If you’re planning a trip with your best moms or girls in the Midwest, then look no further than Hotel Ivy. Nestled in Minneapolis’ vibrant downtown area, this luxurious hotel is perfect for an exciting weekend getaway that will leave you feeling relaxed and refreshed.

Rooms and suites range from one king-sized bed to two queens, able to sleep between 3 and 4 people. Some suites even have a wet bar! 

For a deeper sense of well-being, head to Anda , the hotel’s modern wellness retreat. Moms can also take advantage of the renovated fitness center . It’s complete with Peloton and Technogym cardio equipment, and you can indulge in a spa treatment or two. The Anda Spa Fitness experience is unlike any other! 

Once you’re done, head down to the hotel’s restaurant or one of the many nearby options serving everything from Italian to American fare!

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

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Visit Expedia to book your king-sized or queen-sized room at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis!

Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis is located in the heart of downtown Minneapolis, providing easy access to shopping, dining, and all kinds of entertainment. From its chic and sophisticated décor to its top-notch amenities, Four Seasons offers an unforgettable experience that will leave you feeling pampered.

Sleek and spacious accommodations include rooms with king-sized beds and rollaway beds for 3 adults to two or three-bedroom suites for up to 5, 6, or 7 people. 

Photo Courtesy: Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis

The hotel offers 3 dining options , including the Socca Café for classic Sicilian pizza squares and Mara Restaurant & Bar. Then, don’t miss Riva Terrace , a year-round alfresco Italian concept. After indulging in all the delicious food, head to the hotel’s carefully curated botanical haven. Here, you can experience customized skincare and body treatments. You can also treat yourself to an epic spa experience . Enjoy exclusive use of the 3,000-square-foot indoor pool and access to all thermal amenities! In fact, the  Starry Night  spa experience features exclusive use of the 3,000-square-foot indoor pool and access to all thermal amenities – perfect for a moms’ weekend getaway in Minneapolis.

Of course, you don’t want to skip out on your fitness routine. Take advantage of the hotel’s 24/7 fitness center ! However, when it’s time to relax, soak up the sun and sip on cocktails by the resort-style outdoor pool. This girls’ weekend at Four Seasons Hotel Minneapolis will be one for the books! 

Best Moms’/Girls’ Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin

Wisconsin has a plethora of opportunities for you and your gal pals to bond and relax! With its charming small towns, breathtaking natural beauty, and endless activities to enjoy with your besties or mom squad, this Midwestern state is the perfect destination for a weekend of fun and relaxation. Stay tuned for our suggestions on the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest! 

RELATED : Best Spa Weekend Getaways for Moms in the Northeast

The American Club

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A girls’ trip to The American Club promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with luxury, relaxation, and adventure! From indulgent spa services inspired by water’s restorative properties to high-energy fitness classes at Bold Cycle and Yoga on the Lake, there’s something for everyone here. 

There’s a range of lodging experiences , from deluxe rooms to Governors Suites that can sleep up to 4 people. 

Girls can start their day with a rejuvenating yoga session at Yoga on the Lake, followed by an invigorating indoor cycling class at Bold Cycle. Or, visit the Kohler Water Spa to indulge in a facial or massage. After working up a sweat, they can indulge in a gourmet breakfast at one of the resort’s many dining establishments, such as The Wisconsin Room, The Immigrant Restaurant & Winery, or River Wildlife. Golf enthusiasts can take on the breathtaking Straits and Irish courses, while outdoor lovers can retreat to the Wood Lake Clubhouse for a swim or game of tennis. 

The Osthoff Resort

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Save on your one, two, or three-bedroom suite at The Osthoff Resort with Travelocit y ! 

Retreat to The Osthoff Resort for a luxurious and rejuvenating weekend! Situated on beautiful Elkhart Lake, this luxurious resort offers endless opportunities for relaxation and bonding. From beautiful lake views to chic accommodations filled with modern amenities, this resort also has everything that a group of ladies could want or need.

Take advantage of the spacious and comfortable accommodations , which can also sleep up to six people in one-, two-, or three-bedroom suites, and relax worry-free!

Treat yourself to a natural spa experience at Aspira Spa . Don’t miss out on your workout sessions with the resort’s fully-equipped fitness center, featuring a variety of aerobic and weight training equipment. Enjoy one of the two beautiful outdoor pools or the indoor pool and whirlpools. You can even hang out on the pristine and sandy swimming beach, perfect for soaking up the sun and reading your book on the beach! Then, savor delicious meals and drinks at one of the resort’s restaurants and lounges .

The Pfister Hotel

Start planning your family’s stay at The Pfister Hotel by using Expedia!

Go to Hotels.co m to book your guest room at The Pfister Hotel! 

The Pfister Hotel exudes elegance and sophistication at every turn! Nestled in the heart of downtown Milwaukee, this luxurious hotel is a haven of indulgence and relaxation that promises an idyllic getaway experience.

Guest rooms and hotel suites can sleep up to 6 people comfortably. So you’ll have plenty of space to unwind and bond over some much-needed girl time.

Photo Courtesy: The Pfister Hotel

What’s a girls’ weekend without a trip to the spa? Spa + Salon at The Pfister is the perfect place to unwind and de-stress. Indulge in a spa package for one or a couple’s spa treatment, all just steps away from your luxurious guest room. When it comes to dining, the hotel also has everything from fine dining to casual fare. Then, head to the hotel’s fitness center. Or, hit the indoor swimming pool, both complimentary for hotel guests. Finally, head up to the 23rd floor to also experience panoramic views of downtown and Lake Michigan! 

Click here to find out the Best Hotels For A Spa Weekend Getaway For Moms On Mother’s Day ! 

Best Moms’/Girls’ Weekend Getaways in Missouri

From charming bed and breakfasts nestled in picturesque towns to luxurious spa resorts that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and refreshed, Missouri has it all! This state also offers plenty of options for a fun and exciting weekend away with your favorite gals. Here are some of the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaways in Missouri! 

RELATED : The Best Travel Accessories Families Can’t Live Without

Big Cedar Lodge

Search for your next stay at Big Cedar Lodge using Hotels.com today! 

Get the best deals on a lodge room or lakeside cabin at Big Cedar Lodge by using Expedia!

If you’re looking for the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaways in the Midwest, look no further than Big Cedar Lodge. Situated just outside Branson, Missouri , this luxurious mountain retreat offers everything you could possibly need to unwind and relax with your closest gal pals.

With a range of accommodations , including lodge rooms with double queens to sleep 4-5 people, rustic log cabins, and also lakeside cottages that can fit up to 14 people, you and your girls can cozy up and enjoy some quality time together.

Moms staying at the lodge can enjoy some bottomless mimosas in one of the 4 lavish heated pools and hot tubs. Or, indulge in a day of pampering at the Cedar Creek Spa & Salon. For those who like to stay active, Big Cedar Lodge offers fitness facilities. And, some of the finest golf courses in the region. Plus, a variety of dining options for the best cuisine, ranging from casual to fine dining. 

Take a Break f rom the Daily Grind!

There you have it, the best moms’ or girls’ weekend getaway ideas in the Midwest! Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, outdoor fun, or also indoor luxury, the Midwest has something to offer every type of traveler. From the scenic beauty of Door County to the vibrant energy of Chicago, these destinations are perfect for bonding with your mom squad or gal pals. Enjoy your next girls’ trip! 

*This post may also contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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• Around the Midwest

Great Girlfriend Getaways

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

Reminisce, relax, reconnect. Those are the only rules that apply when girls hit the road. This collection of girls-only outings will inspire your next escape.

Kansas City

"My daughter and I have gone to Kansas City for the past three years. We stay at the Raphael Hotel, which looks out onto Country Club Plaza. We spend a day shopping at Country Club Plaza and getting manis and pedis. One day is spent at the art museums and finding different places to dine (besides barbecue). Our trip this year will include the Power & Light District, and, of course, shopping. It's a great way for a mom and daughter to spend time together."— Karen Vokracka, Oakville, Missouri

Madison, Wisconsin

"We have a sisters weekend every fall. One of our best trips was to Madison, Wisconsin. We stayed at the Concourse Hotel right on Capitol Square. We walked around the city center, seeing the capitol building, the Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired Monona Terrace center on Lake Monona, and State Street shops and eateries. The Saturday farmers market around Capitol Square is full of treats and a variety of people, plants, and animals. This town definitely has something for everyone, but the best was just to have time together."— Lynda Ryan, Kenosha, Wisconsin

Galena, Illinois

"My mom and I took a road trip from Des Moines, Iowa, to Galena, Illinois. We stopped at some great small towns along the way to eat and shop and then had a fun weekend in Galena. We did a lot of shopping there! We also walked up the stairs that take you up the bluffs from downtown and enjoyed the incredible views. One afternoon we drove around to look at some of the historic sites, including Grant's home. It is just always so fun to spend this girl time with my mom."— Jennifer Carroll, Fair Grove, Missouri

Northern Minnesota

"My friends and I hike in northern Minnesota. We love the fall colors, the lack of mosquitoes and black flies, and Lake Superior in all its moods."— Barbara Goetzelman, Antioch, Illinois

Door County, Wisconsin

"Five of us worked together for many years and vowed that we would retire together. Well, one of us moved, and the office where the rest worked was closed. But we still get together every year. One of our favorite spots is Door County, Wisconsin . We meet on a Friday and have a delicious dinner. We shop till we drop all day Saturday. Saturday night is spent in the hotel suite, catching up. On Sunday we eat breakfast and leave for our respective homes, with plans for next year already in place."— Terry Schmitt, Lakeville, Minnesota

"Beginning in 1984 and going strong ever since, my girlfriends and I go to Chicago before Thanksgiving to shop for Christmas presents, eat at wonderful restaurants and see the lights of the season. Not all of us have gone every year, but most of us haven't missed more than a couple. We have shared happiness (marriage, babies, retirement) and sorrow (one dear friend died of cancer). And now we're planning for the next year."— Ann Siegfried, Huntington, Indiana

Madison, Indiana

"My daughter and I have gone to Madison, Indiana, since she was in first grade. We stay at Clifty Falls State Park and shop, hike and play board games. I've watched her graduate from juice boxes to fine wines, all while watching paddle wheelers float by on the Ohio River."— Cindy DiBiase, Lawrenceberg, Indiana

"My girlfriend Terry and I used to take our daughters for our 'girls weekends' to Duluth. We would travel up the North Shore on Saturday and then stay the night in a hotel in Duluth Saturday night. Sunday we would shop in Duluth—lots of fun places to shop there!" -Marie Hess Keefe, Pine City, Minnesota

Amana Colonies, Iowa

"My mom and I loved taking day trips to the Amana Colonies in Iowa. I can see all the stores in my memory, though their names escape me now. Our noon mainstay was rhubarb pie, and our last stop was the meat market to buy summer sausage for my husband and cheese for my dad. Mom is gone now, but thinking of the Amanas brings happy tears to my eyes."— Kay Porter Westendorf, Fort Worth, Texas

Lakelands of Minnesota

"We love to head for the lakes area of Minnesota: Detroit Lakes , Park Rapids , Walker. We hit all the little shops on the way. It's a beautiful drive, a day of great shopping treasures found, good food and drinks, and maybe a quick stop on the way home in Dorset (which bills itself as 'Restaurant Capital of the World'). Beware, lines for dinner in this tiny town form in the late afternoon." -Deb Watne, Moorhead, Minnesota

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

"My friends go to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. This year, we all turned 70 (ouch). The first time, we were in high school. You do the math! Great town, beautiful shops—and we love each other's company."— Terry Wuich, Des Plaines, Illinois