best places to visit midwest usa

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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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25 Best Things to Do in The Midwest, U.S.A. — Top Activities & Places to Go!

If you’re looking for a memorable getaway in the heart of the United States, look no further than the Midwest. 

The Midwest has stunning landscapes, charming towns, delicious cuisine, rich history, and diverse activities. 

Whether you want to hike, indulge in local cuisine, explore culture, or relax, this region has plenty of options. 

That said, finding the right destination and suitable activities for you and your family may require patience and effort.

I’ve been in a similar situation before. So don’t worry. I got you covered.

Having personally visited numerous places in the Midwest, I recommend the best places and activities for your next adventure.

I’ll review the best things to do in the Midwest, covering the cost, fun, education, and more.

My review aims to help you choose wisely and plan a family vacation you’ll cherish forever.

So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Midwest as we compare and recommend activities to help plan your perfect trip.

Best Things To Do In Midwest Compared 

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. I’ve compiled my research and curated a list below that will help you in planning your tip:

Editor’s Choice

The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show

It’s an energetic, thrilling performance featuring talented musicians, dancers, and vocalists.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 2/5

#2nd Best Choice

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

It offers a unique perspective on the city’s renowned architecture, showcasing iconic buildings from the water.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

It offers a captivating experience with stunning views of the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan.

• Educational Value: 1/5

Here are the top 25 things to do in Midwest, U.S.A.

1. The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show (Editor’s Choice)

3216 State Hwy 76 Branson, MO 65616 (417) 339-4663 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

•  Highly entertaining
• Family-friendly
•  May not appeal to those who do not enjoy music and dance performances

Why You Should Go

It’s an energetic, thrilling performance featuring talented musicians, dancers, and vocalists. 

The show features a variety of musical genres, including country, pop, rock, and more, catering to diverse tastes.

The impressive stage production, captivating visuals, and interactive audience engagement make it a memorable and entertaining show for all ages.

At The Haygoods show, immerse yourself in an evening of incredible entertainment.

Enjoy harmonious vocals, skilled musicianship, and dynamic dance routines.

Sing along to popular hits spanning multiple genres. Marvel at the elaborate set designs and dazzling light effects.

Engage with the interactive performances and be swept away by the high-energy atmosphere.

It’s an unforgettable experience of music, talent, and pure enjoyment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore

2. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

465 N McClurg Ct Chicago, IL 60611 (708) 488-6343 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Scenic and informative
• Relaxing and enjoyable
• Weather dependent 

The Chicago Architecture River Cruise is an essential experience for visitors.

It offers a unique perspective on the city’s renowned architecture, showcasing iconic buildings from the water.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides fascinating insights into Chicago’s architectural history.

It allows visitors to appreciate the city’s beauty, design, and rich cultural heritage.

It’s a captivating and informative journey through the heart of Chicago’s architectural legacy.

During the Chicago Architecture River Cruise, sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the city’s architectural marvels.

Listen attentively to the knowledgeable guides as they provide fascinating insights into each building’s history and design.

Capture memorable photos of the iconic skyline.

Embrace the relaxing boat ride and soak in the beauty of Chicago’s architectural wonders.

It’s an educational and visually captivating experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Best Midwest Family Resorts

Related: Best Things to Do in St. Louis

3. Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

600 E. Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (800) 595-7437 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
• Thrilling and exciting ride experience
•  Long lines/wait times

It is an iconic attraction that should not be missed.

It offers a captivating experience with stunning views of the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan.

The Ferris wheel ride provides a unique perspective and a sense of excitement.

It’s a memorable and enjoyable destination that showcases the beauty and charm of Chicago.

Take a thrilling ride on the iconic Ferris wheel.

Admire the stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan from the enclosed gondolas.

Capture memorable photos of the city’s beauty from a unique vantage point.

Enjoy the gentle breeze and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Navy Pier.

It’s a must-do experience in Chicago.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Chicago

Related: Best Things to Do in Chicago

4. Grohmann Museum

1000 N. Broadway Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 277-2300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Experience the unique collection of over 1,300 artworks depicting various occupations and trades at the Grohmann Museum in Milwaukee, a must-see for art and history lovers.

The Grohmann Museum is a captivating destination that shouldn’t be overlooked.

It showcases an impressive collection of artwork focused on the theme of human work.

The museum’s exhibits offer a unique perspective on various professions and the evolution of labor throughout history.

It’s a fascinating and educational experience that sheds light on the importance and beauty of human work.

Explore the extensive collection of artwork dedicated to the theme of human work.

Admire the diverse range of artistic styles and mediums on display.

Learn about the history and significance of various professions depicted in the artwork.

Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and thought-provoking narratives presented in each piece.

It’s a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts alike.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Americas Best Value Inn Wall

5. Mall of America

60 E Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425 (952) 883-8800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 1992, this 96.4-acre shopping complex is home to over 500 stores and entertainment centers.

Wondering what to do in the Midwest when it’s raining or cold?

Who not head indoors, and explore the largest mall in the US?

Besides housing numerous retail outlets, the mall also is packed with attractions suited for visitors of all ages.

Once you’re finished with your retail therapy here, check out the mall’s highly entertaining attractions.

Got kids in tow?

Make sure to drop the Great Wolf lodge Water Park, SEA Life or the lively Nickelodeon Universe.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Mall of America

Related: Best Things to Do in Minnesota

6. Ontonagon

Ontonagon, MI 49953 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled in Ontonagon Township, this underrated quaint town is a terrific spot to experience one of nature’s greatest mysteries.

Want to see the surreal Aurora Borealis, but don’t want to travel far?

The truth is, you don’t have to travel to Alaska, Canada, Norway or Iceland, to catch this striking natural phenomenon.

Just head to Ontonagon, between September and March, and you’ll have a rare chance to see this unearthly natural light show.

There are, of course, other noteworthy activities and attractions in Ontonagon.

Our favorites include Summit Peak, Presque Isle river, Lake of the Clouds and Bond Falls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

7. Indy 500

4750 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 (317) 492-6784 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Held traditionally every Memorial Day weekend, this annual event in Speedway, IN is a bucket-list-worthy experience.

They don’t call Indy 500 “the Greatest Spectacle in Racing” for nothing.

In fact, it’s deemed as part of the famous Triple Crown of Motorsport, which consists of 3 of the world’s most prestigious racing events.

From live shows and pre-races to the main event, Indy 500 is action-packed, filled with colorful activities.

But, if you can’t make it to the actual race, the Indiana Motor Speedway, the race’s venue, is still worth a visit.

Open year round, the speedway’s museum features a plethora of exhibits showcasing the race’s history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites And Conference Center Downtown

Related: Best Things to Do in Indianapolis

8. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

9922 W Front St Empire, MI 49630 (231) 326-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, this extraordinary park is famous for its massive sand dunes and beaches.

Encompassing more than 30 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this national park boasts a bevy of natural wonders.

Not only does it have freshwater beaches , but it also has hidden escapes and towering bluffs.

Hike the 3.5-mile Dune Climb trail, which leads you to the scenic lakeshore.

Alternatively, you may bike along the beautiful Bear Heritage Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Empire Lakeshore Inn

9. Iowa State Fair

3000 E Grand Ave Des Moines, IA 50317 (515) 262-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Celebrated annually since 1854, this internationally renowned state fair in Des Moines draws more than a million visitors.

The Iowa State Fair is a feast for the senses.

For 11 consecutive August days, this state fair turns Des Moines into a convivial wonderland with its trade shows and concerts.

Moreover, the fair offers antique shows, flea markets, live exhibits and auto shows.

Earn a purple ribbon, eat a corn dog and ride an exhilarating roller coaster.

For music fans, catch the talent search as well as fantastic live concerts.

You can also spot and touch the charming and huge animals of the fair, including rams, boars and bulls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill – Des Moine s

Related: Restaurants: Des Moines

10. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

1100 E 9th St Cleveland, OH 44114 (216) 781-7625 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Established in 1995, this museum chronicles the history of rock music and its notable figures.

The museum is home to a cornucopia of special collections and artifacts from the genre’s all-time top musicians.

Exhibits of the museum are spread perfectly over 6 floors, and include costumes, props and instruments used by David Bowie, The Beatles and Elvis.

Watch the inductee videos and short films within the museum.

Also, spend time appreciating the massive memorabilia collection and historical aspects behind every exhibit.

Related: Best Things to Do in Cleveland

11. Starved Rock State Park

2678 E 875th Rd Oglesby, IL 61348 (815) 667-4726 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Famed for its dramatic canyons, this 2,630-acre park in Illinois guarantees to quench your thirst for adventure.

Starved Rock State Park beckons visitors with 18 eye-catching canyons that were carved over the millennia by glacial meltwater.

Additionally, the park is home to 14 refreshing waters and 13 miles of trails for biking or hiking.

Take a plunge in the park’s refreshing natural springs.

For something a bit more active, you can also go hunting, hiking and biking.

And, if you prefer a more relaxing activity, camp or fish in this state park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru Starved Rock State Park

12. Enchanted Highway

607 Main St Regent, ND 58650 (701) 563-6400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled in North Dakota, this 32-mile stretch is adorned with bizarrely wonderful sculptures made from scrap metal.

If you’re searching for free things to do in the Midwest, look no further than Enchanted Highway.

Constructed by Gary Greff, this whimsical highway is home to the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world – the 100-foot tall Geese In Flight.

Be mesmerized by the magnificent “Geese in Flight” and “Grasshoppers” sculptures.

You’ll also love the sunset views of the “Deer Crossing” on this unique highway in the Midwest.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bowman Lodge & Convention Center

13. The Victorian House Museum

484 Wooster Rd Millersburg, OH 44654 (330) 674-0022 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Built originally in 1902, this historical Victorian house is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Millersburg’s Victorian House Museum is filled with displays highlighting the largest Amish settlement in Ohio .

Even better, this opulent 28-room home flaunts intricate period pieces, furniture and glassware.

The best time to visit this museum is in winter when it’s decorated with over 40 trees and holiday decor.

There are also theatrical effects with sound and lights to create a quintessential Victorian era feel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Millersburg

14. Walker Art Center

725 Vineland PI Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 375-7600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With 700,000 visitors per year, this Minneapolis treasure trove is certainly one of the country’s most-visited modern art museums.

Walker is a paradise for modern and contemporary art connoisseurs.

Aside from its jaw-dropping architecture, it also houses more than 13,000 contemporary and modern pieces, including sculptures, prints and paintings.

Stroll through the sculpture garden, and be enticed by its beautiful trees and art pieces.

Once done, head inside, and see countless world-class pieces of art.

You may also partake in any of the museum’s screenings, special performances, lectures, workshops and classes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown

Related: Places to Eat in Minneapolis, MN

Related: Best Things to Do in Minneapolis

15. Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park, mi 49931 (906) 482-0984 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In 1980, this national park in Michigan was recognized as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve.

Rising from Lake Superior’s waters, this remote oasis is perfect for anyone who wants to escape their monotonous daily grind.

Untamed and rough, this pristine park is home to some interesting animals, including immigrant moose and wolves.

Experience a backcountry adventure like no other by walking portions of its 165 miles of hiking trails.

In addition, you can venture into its scalloped shoreline and 46 lakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: East Bay Suites

16. Henry Doorly Zoo

3701 S 10th St Omaha, NE 68107 (402) 733-8401 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in 1894, this nationally famous zoo is beloved for its animal research and conservation.

With its innovative animal conservation techniques, it’s easy to see why Henry Doorly is often named as the world’s best zoo.

Plus, the zoo is home to several terrific exhibits, including the Desert Dome.

See North America’s biggest cat complex and the world’s largest indoor swamp: the Kingdoms of the Night.

To make your trip even more memorable, drop by the Desert Dome and the Lied Jungle, which is one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Element Omaha Midtown Crossing

Related: Best Things to Do in Omaha

17. Ford Drive-In

10400 Ford Rd Dearborn, MI 48126 (313) 846-6910 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ford Drive-In is the largest drive-in theater in America with 9 screens and spacious parking for over 2,000 cars.

Ford Drive-In is truly one of the most captivating and nostalgic things to do in the Midwest tonight.

Open year-round, this old-school drive-in theater lets you enjoy a movie from the comforts of your own vehicle.

Relive your childhood memories and enjoy a nostalgic movie experience by catching the double-feature flicks at Ford Drive-In.

There’s also a playground for families who are traveling with sprightly youngsters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Henry, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Restaurants in Dearborn

18. Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr Sandusky, OH 44870 (419) 627-2350 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 1879, this 364-acre amusement park in Sandusky has been thrilling visitors with its mind-blowing rides.

You’ll find a wide range of options for family fun and entertainment at this amusement park.

Billed as the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point also houses stomach-dropping and adrenaline-pumping rides for thrill-seekers.

To me, it’s one of the most amazing family-friendly places to visit in the Midwestern States.

Experience the world’s longest, fastest and tallest hybrid roller coaster: the Steel Vengeance.

If you prefer a milder ride, check out the Top Thrill Dragster and Woodstock Express.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cedar Point Hotel Breakers

Related: Restaurants: Sandusky, Ohio

19. Aire Ancient Baths Chicago

W Superior St Chicago, IL 60642 (312) 312-9610 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Housed inside a restored 1902 factory in River West, this multi-sensory experience makes a romantic night out in Chicago

Looking for romantic things to do in the Midwest for couples?

A word of advice, drop by Aire Ancient Baths Chicago.

With an array of therapeutic and beauty treatments, this bathhouse will give you and your partner a romantic and relaxing experience in Chi-town. ‘

Indulge in their Red Wine Bath experience, which submerges love birds in polyphenol and antioxidant-rich red grapes.

Additionally, the experience includes a soothing 1-hour-long massage using grapeseed oils.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viceroy Chicago

20. Corn Palace

604 N Main St Mitchell, SD 57301 (605) 995-8430 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Completed in 1921, this Moorish Revival structure is decorated with designs and murals that are made from corn.

Every year since its inception in 1892, artists from Mitchell have been decorating the facade of this building with grains.

Labeled as the only corn palace in the world, this multi-purpose venue draws around 500,000 visitors annually.

Visit the palace during its peak season, which is from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

During these months, you’ll see the palace in its full grandeur with a redecorated facade of grass, grain and corn.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Mitchell SD

21. Lake of the Ozarks

0170, 403 MO-134 Kaiser, MO 65047 (5730 348-2694 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The most famous lake destination in Missouri features over 1,000 miles of shoreline.

And, guess what?

The Lake of the Ozarks has more shoreline than California’s coast.

There’s no shortage of fun family-friendly activities in this lake destination.

From sandy beaches and boat rental to horseback riding, it even offers some of the top things to do in the Midwest with kids.

Head to the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, and experience a variety of activities, including lantern-lit tours, boat rentals and beaches.

You can also play a round of gold at the 18-hole course of Old Kinderhook Resort.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ozark Village Resort & Marina

22. Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 (800) 223-3557 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in south central Wisconsin, this scenic city lures visitors with its lively waterparks and age-friendly attractions.

If you’re dreaming of a memorable family vacation with endless splashy fun, then you’ll love “the Dells”.

Billed as the world’s water park capital, the city features a handful of exciting splashy attractions and spots.

Get your aquatic adventure fix by visiting Mount Olympus Water Park and Noah’s Ark Water Park.

For outdoorsy adventurers, you may go camping and hiking in Mirror Lake State Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Meadowbrook Resort

Related: Places to Eat in Wisconsin Dells

23. Custer State Park

13400 US Highway 16A Custer, SD 57730 (605) 255-4515 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

At 71,000 acres, this Black Hills wildlife reserve is the largest state park in South Dakota .

Elk, prairie dogs, bison, and other animals roam near Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road.

But, there’s more to this state park than its intriguing and charming creatures.

With windswept prairies and emerald forests, this state park also offers a relaxing nature escape.

Drive the 14-mile-long Needles Highway, and see world-class views and Instagrammable narrow tunnels.

Alternatively, animal lovers may drive the 18-mile long Wildlife Loop Road.

For the adventurous, you’re going to have a blast hiking the Black Elk Peak Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stay USA Hotel and Suites

Related: What Is The Midwest Famous For?

24. Kansas City

Kansas City, MO Open in Google Maps

Sitting on the western edge of Missouri, the state’s largest city is well-known for its fountains, jazz heritage, and barbecue.

Kansas City will keep you occupied and busy for days, with its numerous big city entertainment and attractions.

And, surprisingly, the city is pretty affordable, compared to other nearby cities.

As a bonus, it’s dotted with picture-perfect and elaborate fountains.

Stroll along Ward Park, and spot some of the city’s most fabulous waterworks and fountains.

You can also satisfy your taste buds with juicy BBQ goodies at joints, like Fiorella’s Jack State Barbecue and Arthur Bryants.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection By Hilton

Related: Best Restaurants in Kansas City

Related: Best Things to Do in Kansas City

25. Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, MI 49747 (906) 847-3783 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated in Lake Huron, this 4.35-square-mile resort area and island is a designated National Historic Landmark.

No list of the best things to do in the Midwest is complete without Mackinac Island.

For centuries, the island has been a favorite vacation spot in Michigan, thanks to its natural wonders and unforgettable sunsets.

What’s more, the island has a host of historical marvels.

Enjoy a leisurely carriage ride on this no-vehicles-allowed island.

And, if you’re planning to leave the downtown area this weekend, head to the Mackinac Island State Park, which has a 70-mile network of trails winding through limestone outcroppings and woods.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lake View Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in The Midwest

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

It’s always a good idea to compare your options before making a decision to ensure that you have the best possible experience.

Choose the one that aligns with your preferences and budget to maximize your Midwest vacation.

The Haygoods is a must-see show in Branson, featuring the multi-talented Haygood family, who bring music, dance, acrobatics, and special effects together for a thrilling performance.

But If you’re not a fan of loud music and flashy performances, then the show may not be the best option for you.

Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise to see the city’s impressive buildings from a unique perspective.

The tour guide shares fascinating history and insights for an enriching experience.

However, the primary drawback of the cruise is that it can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak season.

The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel in Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city skyline from a height of 200 feet. The ride is smooth and provides an exhilarating experience. 

While the river cruise offers a unique experience, it may not be suitable for budget-conscious travelers due to the high ticket prices.

The Grohmann Museum in Milwaukee is a well-curated hidden gem showcasing art depicting the evolution of human work, a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

But it may not be of interest to individuals who do not appreciate art or history.

The Midwest region offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring national parks to savoring local cuisine. 

Although it has some drawbacks, the Midwest’s natural beauty and friendly communities make it a great travel destination.

How I Picked The Activities

As an experienced travel writer, I am an expert in crafting engaging and informative articles about travel experiences, including the best things to do in the Midwest.

My evaluations of the Midwest’s finest attractions are based on first-hand experience and feature insights from guests and locals, providing valuable guidance for vacation planning.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly activities in the midwest.

Two family-friendly activities in the Midwest are The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show and the Chicago Architecture River Cruise.

What Outdoor Activities Can I Do In The Midwest?

Hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and cycling are some popular outdoor activities to enjoy in the Midwest.

If you plan a trip to Branson, Missouri, experience The Haygoods show, a high-energy musical experience with impressive choreography, acrobatics, and special effects.

The Haygoods impressed me with their incredible versatility during their 80s tribute, seamlessly transitioning between hits from the era. 

As a seasoned travel writer, I highly recommend catching The Haygoods in Branson. 

It’s our top pick for this list. 

Moving onto the Windy City, the Chicago Architecture River Cruise offers stunning views of the skyline and a knowledgeable guide to share the city’s fascinating history.

The drawbridges were the highlight of the cruise, offering a unique perspective on the city’s architecture as we saw the buildings up close.

For a thrilling ride, the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline from 196 feet up.

At night, the Ferris wheel lights create a mesmerizing show. It was one of my favorite Chicago experiences.

For a unique museum experience, visit Milwaukee’s Grohmann Museum, a must-see hidden gem for art lovers showcasing 1,300 industrial pieces worldwide.

The blacksmithing exhibit stood out, showcasing intricate metalwork and the craft’s history – a great alternative to the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel.

Overall, travelers with diverse interests can have a memorable experience at these unique destinations. 

I had an unforgettable time exploring the best things to do in the Midwest, from the vibrant city vibe of Chicago to the stunning natural beauty of the Great Lakes region.

It’s a truly unique and fascinating part of the country that is not to be missed.

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26 Things To Do In The Midwest: The Ultimate Bucket List

January 10, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

Are you looking for things to do in the midwest? You are in the right place.

In this article, I will walk you through the main attractions in the Midwest and tell you everything you need to know about this incredible part of the country.

From the Salt Plains in Oklahoma to the Badlands of North Dakota there are so many Midwest landmarks to put on your list.

From the hustle and bustle of Chicago to the peace and quiet of the small Iowa towns there is something here to please everyone.

Whether you are looking for vibrant midwest cities or wide open spaces this part of the country has it all.

The Midwest has some of the best places to go in the USA and you won’t regret exploring. So pull up a chair, grab a drink and let me walk through the best vacation spots in the Midwest.

Illinois: Chicago

One of the best places to visit in the Midwest is Chicago.  It’s an incredible city with so much to do whatever your tastes.

From Chicago sightseeing to incredible restaurants and amazing tours this city will not disappoint.  Some of the must-see sights are The Willis Tower and John Hancock Center.

Also, make sure you visit some of the historic locations and a trip to a speak-easy is a must.

Chicago makes a great destination for one of your Midwest weekend trips .

Indiana: Indiana Dunes National Park

When it comes to the top things to see in the US the National Parks of the Midwest should be high on your list.

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan the Indiana Dunes National Park has 15 miles of beautiful sandy beaches for you to explore and enjoy.

There is so much to do in the park from swimming, watersports, hiking, and biking to cross-country skiing.

If you love the great outdoors then this is one of the must-see places in the USA.

This is truly one of the best Midwest attractions.

Iowa: Bridges of Madison County

The 1995 film The   Bridges of Madison County was set and filmed in Iowa. If you haven’t seen it it’s a real tear-jerker.

What this film does really well is show off the incredible Iowa countryside. It’s picture-perfect here with covered bridges set against stunning scenery.

Bring your camera and photograph some of these scenes. The Roseman and Holiwell Bridges are great places to start.

It’s idyllic and beautiful and would make a perfect spot for a romantic midwest getaway.

Kansas: Walking in Dorothy’s Footsteps

There is only one thing to really do when you are in Kansas and that is to visit the museum of the film that made this state so famous.

In the small town of Wamego is the Wizard of Oz Museum. It’s one of the fun things to do in the USA .

You can visit Dorothy’s farmhouse and take a walk down the yellow brick road and of course, the museum is painted emerald green.

Whatever your age this museum has all the nostalgia you could ever wish for. It’s definitely one of the most interesting museums in Kansas .

Michigan: Mackinac Island

If you are thinking about things to do in the Midwest then a visit to one of the Midwest Islands should be high on your list.

Mackinac Island in Michigan is one of these beautiful islands that is well worth a visit.  The only way to get to this island is by boat and no cars are allowed on the island.

There is so much to see on Mackinac Island and some really unique restaurants to try. The island is lovely and a trip on the island trolley is a must.

Minnesota: Boundary Waters

If you looking for activities in the Midwest then head to the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.

In the Lake Superior National Forest, this 1,000,000 acres is a unique wilderness. It’s an absolutely beautiful location and National Geographic Traveler has named it one of the “50 Places of A Lifetime To See”.

It’s a wonderful place to go hiking and biking and if you are in the right place at the right time you might even get a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

A visit here should be high on your list of things to do in Minnesota

Missouri: Gateway Arch

If you are looking for Midwest vacation ideas then a trip to Missouri should be high on your list. There is so much to see and do in Missouri .

Top of your list should be a visit to The Gateway National Park in St Louis. The iconic Gateway Arch is a 630-foot national monument built in the shape of a weighted arch.

It’s a popular attraction and well worth a visit and you can even ride to the top by elevator or tram if you want a great view.

Nebraska: Scotts Bluff Monument

One of the must-see places in the USA is Scotts Bluff National Monument. In the North Platte Valley, this iconic landmark has led the way to the Great Plain for centuries.

This sandstone rock formation stands 800 ft above the valley and is quite spectacular. There are many hiking trails around the area that offer amazing views.

When you visit make sure you go to the visitors center and check out the documentary and exhibits.

North Dakota: Theodore Roosevelt NP

A trip to Theodore Roosevelt National Park is definitely one of the things to do in the Midwest. This famous park really is stunning and one of the points of interest in the USA.

The park is  70,000 acres and comprises mountains, canyons, rivers, and the desolate Badlands area.

Things to do here include hiking, stargazing, camping, skiing, and much more.

You will find some of the best camping in the Midwest here!

South Dakota: Mount Rushmore

In the Black Hills of South Dakota is one of the most famous mountains in the USA. A visit to Mount Rushmore is one of the top things to see in the US.

On this mountain, you will find the sixty-foot faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

While here walk the scenic Presidential Trail and learn about the area’s history. This is a bucket list attraction that you must visit.

Ohio: Cedar Point

If you looking for the best amusement parks in the Midwest then Cedar Point in Ohio should be high on your list.

Located in Sandusky, Ohio, on the shores of Lake Erie, this park offers 364 acres of chills and thrills. Whatever age you are there is a rollercoaster here to suit you.

There are so many rides and attractions here to enjoy.

Wisconsin: Door County

One of the best places to visit in the Midwest is Door County in Wisconsin. This area is beautiful with some of the best waterfalls, beaches, and lighthouses in the state.

There is so much to do in Door County the villages and towns are postcard perfect. From the various islands and the numerous parks, you won’t run out of things to do in the area.

Oklahoma: Great Salt Plains St Park

If you are looking for things to do in the midwest then a trip to the Great Salt Plains State Park in Oklahoma is a must.

Located in the west of the state this park is beautiful and unique and makes for some great photography.

The salt flats cover approximately 11,000 acres and it is a great area for birdwatching.  This is one of the Midwest landmarks that you don’t want to miss.

There are many gorgeous lakes in Oklahoma to visit as well.

South Dakota: Badlands

One of the best places to go in the USA is the Badlands of South Dakota. A visit here is one of the best things to do in South Dakota and is truly unique.

Here you will find over 200,000 acres of rugged mountains, deep canyons, and grassy prairies.

It’s a great place to see animals in their natural habitat go hiking or biking or just spend some time stargazing.

This is one of the things to do in the Midwest that everyone needs to see.

Ohio: Amish Country

One of the best vacation spots in the Midwest is Amish County in Ohio. Visiting here is one of the best things to do in Ohio.

When I was young I would visit Amish County all the time with my family. I have fond memories of the sights and sounds of this place.

Expect horse-drawn buggies, handmade quilts and furniture, and delicious Amish food for sale. It really is a pleasure to slow down for a while.

Visiting Amish Country is one of the unique activities in the Midwest.

Wisconsin: Wisconsin Dells

If you are looking for Midwest vacation ideas then a trip to the Wisconsin Dells might be just what you are looking for.

Located in southern Wisconsin along the Wisconsin River, Wisconsin Dells is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World.

There are more than waterparks to explore with some great hiking, museums wineries, and breweries in the area.

This is a great place for a Midwest getaway and one of the things to do in Wisconsin .

Minnesota: Duluth

If you are looking for things to do in Minnesota then a trip to Duluth might be perfect for you.

Duluth is a city with a lot of history and so much to see and do. Things to see include the Lake Superior Rail Road Museum, the SS William A. Irvin, and the Glensheen Mansion.

This port city also has beaches, city parks, and a lovely shoreline. It’s one of the best places to go in the USA.

Oklahoma: Oklahoma City

If you are looking for places for Midwest weekend trips then Oklahoma City might be perfect for you. This vibrant and thriving city has so much to offer.

This Midwest city is known for its rich history, numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and recreational opportunities.

Things to see here include the Oklahoma City Museum of Art and the Civic Center, and the Myriad Botanical Gardens.

Visiting here is one of the most fun things to do in the USA and one of the best things to do in Oklahoma .

Missouri: Branson Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

If you are looking for things to do in Missouri then Branson is really worth visiting. It’s a popular destination and has something to please everyone.

If you are looking for events in the Midwest Branson always has something happening. It’s a place with so much to see and do .

Whatever you like to do Branson can deliver. From those who like things loud to those who want to spend time in natural beauty, you can do it all here.

North Dakota: Enchanted Highway

Want to do something different in North Dakota then how about a trip on the Enchanted Highway?

The Enchanted Highway is a collection of metal sculptures placed at regular intervals along the I-94. They stretch for 32 miles with each sculpture has a parking area so you can out and explore.

The sculptures include ‘Geese in Flight’, ‘Grasshoppers in Field’, ‘World’s Largest Tin Family’, and more.

This is one of the cool hidden gems in the Midwest!

Ilinois: Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library

If you are looking for things to do in Illinois then a trip to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library is a great way to spend your time.

In Springfield, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum documents the 16th President of the United States’ life as well as the history of the Civil War.

It’s so much more than a library with readings and performances and more. If you love history then this is one of the things to do in the Midwest.

Indiana: French Lick

if you looking for somewhere romantic in the Midwest then French lick might be perfect for you. This historic town is charming and full of beautiful architecture.

Visiting here is one of the things to do in Indiana if you are wanting to spend some time with that special someone.

Expect intimate restaurants, quaint boutique shops, and picture-perfect streets. This is definitely one of the places to see in Indiana .

Iowa: De Moines Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

One of the must-visit places in Iowa is Des Moines. The city has so much to offer whatever you like doing.

From art museums to lovely parks to great architecture there are lots to see here. The State Capitol is a building that is well worth visiting.

There are so many things to do in Des Moines and it is one of the places to see in Iowa .

Kansas: 8 Wonders Of Kansas

Yes, Kansas does have 8 Wonders for you to enjoy. Monuments Rocks is one of them and is one of the places to visit in Kansas.

These chalk formations in Oakley stand 70 feet high and are very spectacular.  Some know these as the chalk pyramids others think of them as nature’s Stonehenge.

Whatever you want to call them they are well worth a visit. Definitely one of the points of interest in the USA.

Michigan: Detroit Is One Of The Best Things To Do In The Midwest

One of the best things to do in Michigan is to take a trip to Detroit.  Detroit is one of those cities that surprises you.

Most of the city is a National Historic Area and it is also home to one of the best National Parks in Michigan .

Obviously, this city is rich in automobile history and there are over 100 historic landmarks, buildings, and museums to explore in this city.

Detriot offers so many others things to see and do and there are some great restaurants.

A visit here is one of the things to do in Michigan .

Nebraska: Smiths Falls Is One Of The Best Things To Do In The Midwest

The Midwest has some amazing waterfalls and Smiths Fall is no exception. This is one of the things that you need to see in Nebraska.

Smith Falls is the highest in Nebraska and stands 2 feet tall.  It’s also surrounded by a really beautiful area.

You can hike around the area too if you want to. The falls are also really close to the cute Nebraska town of Valentine which is also worth a visit.

This is one of the things to see in Nebraska .

Packing List When Exploring Things To Do 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.

A  concealed travel pouch may be one of the most important items you bring along when visiting Midwest attractions.

It is  always   important  to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

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.

You can place it under your clothes next to your body to carry your ID safely.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with 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!

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 photos during Montana attractions.

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.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

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  with you 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.

As you can see when it comes to things to do in the Midwest there really is so much. I hope this article has helped you somewhat in deciding which Midwest landmarks to visit.

Whichever of these attractions in the Midwest you visit I know you will have an amazing time. Please come back and let me know where you visited.

And if you wnat more Midwest vacation ideas I have so many on this explore so dig around a little.

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16 Top-Rated Things to Do in The Midwest

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Oct 14, 2022

Whether you are just passing through Midwestern states or staying for a period of time, they each have famous and obscure attractions that are fun to seek out and experience. The Midwestern states include Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Missouri, Iowa, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, and Kansas.

While some of the top tourist attractions, like Mount Rushmore, are located in specific destinations, you can enjoy other things to do, like a river paddleboat sightseeing ride, in several states in the Midwest.

From the famous Willis Tower Skydeck in Chicago to scenic drives to see the vibrant colors of fall foliage, check out our list of some of the best things to do in the Midwest.

1. Marvel at Mount Rushmore

2. scenic drives through fall foliage, 3. go to new heights on the willis tower skydeck, 4. relax on a leisurely paddleboat ride, 5. cheer with the crowd at the indy 500, 6. see the northern lights, 7. shop the historic national road yard sale, 8. work a cattle drive, 9. slow down in amish country, 10. climb sand dunes, 11. shop at the mall of america, 12. experience the sandhill crane migration, 13. visit a state fair, 14. see the gateway arch in st. louis, 15. enjoy outdoor recreation at lake of the ozarks, 16. gawk at creations on the enchanted highway, map of things to do in the midwest.

One of the top tourist attractions in the entire country, not just in the Midwest, is Mount Rushmore in South Dakota . The carved mountainside is an iconic American experience symbolic of the freedom and democracy that the country represents, and it is an unforgettable sight.

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial features the faces of four American presidents that are 60 feet tall carved into the mountainside. One of the best ways to experience the site is with a ranger-led tour through the park to learn more about the Black Hills in South Dakota and the history of the carving of Mount Rushmore.

While at the park, you can also visit the Sculptor's Studio to learn about the artist who created the work, and walk the Presidential Trail to get some of the most majestic views of the park from the Grand View Terrace.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in South Dakota

The Midwestern states are blessed with four distinct seasons, and one of the best times to visit is during the fall, when the colors change on the leaves. There are a few outstanding must-see destinations for fall foliage tours and scenic drives.

Marquette, Michigan has hundreds of miles of roads through forests that illuminate in the fall with colors of red, orange, purple, and brown. The fall colors are especially beautiful against the backdrop of Lake Superior.

The Hocking Hills region in southern Ohio is one of the best places to visit for fall foliage. You can book a cabin in the fall and enjoy hikes or even ziplining in the treetops to enjoy the colorful scenery.

North Shore , Minnesota , near Duluth , is another scenic spot for fall foliage in the forests that line the bluffs along Lake Superior.

Another scenic pathway for fall foliage is in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin , where you can walk on a 21-mile path along the lakeshore lined by the vibrant trees or take a boat tour and soak in the color from the water. Resorts in Lake Geneva offer a great opportunity for a weekend getaway.

One of the most exciting and fun things to do in the Midwest is at the top of the Willis Tower in Chicago . The Skydeck is the highest in Chicago and hands-down the best view of the city. The Ledge is what most visitors travel up 103 floors of the tower to experience.

The Ledge is in glass boxes that extend 4.3 feet out from the Skydeck landing. That means you are suspended 1,353 feet in the air with only glass beneath your feet. While the experience can take you to new heights, literally, you can always just look out the windows if nerves get the better of you.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chicago

Some of the best attractions in a few Midwestern states are paddleboat rides along rivers that historically served as important passageways for the distribution of goods. There are several states along major rivers that offer historic paddleboat rides that are well worth going out of your way to experience.

In Ohio, the cities of Cincinnati and Marietta have paddleboats that run along the Ohio River, and Cleveland has paddleboats that run on the Cuyahoga River and Lake Erie . If you visit the Ohio Sternwheel Festival held the weekend after Labor Day each year in Marietta, you will see many sternwheelers converge on the Ohio River from all over the country. Another consideration is the Pearl of the Lake riverboats in Lake City, Minnesota, which run on the Mississippi River .

The Indy 500 takes place at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway every Memorial Day weekend and is a bucket list item for most people who get the chance to experience it. There are pre-races and events in the days leading up to the main event, but even if you cannot make it to the race itself, the speedway is one of the best Midwest tourist attractions throughout the year.

The Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum is a fun attraction for car racing enthusiasts that is open year-round. It is located inside the track and features exhibits and information about the history of racing and the Indy 500.

You can also book an Indy Racing Experience to find out what it's like to be behind the wheel of an actual NTT IndyCar Series race car and drive around the famous track. This fan experience lets you ride alongside an Indy Racing League driver in a 2-seater car, or you can learn how to drive it on your own. The racing experience starts with safety instruction and background about these high-powered cars and ends with a trip around the actual track of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Indianapolis

You do not have to travel to Iceland or Norway to see the northern lights when you can find several spectacular spots in the Midwest to fulfill that experience.

Cook County, Minnesota is one of the places to see the aurora borealis on the shores of Lake Superior . One of the best spots to see them is in the Superior National Forest on Oberg Mountain.

The Upper Peninsula in Michigan is another spot in the Midwest where you can view the northern lights. You can stay in Marquette or plan a camping trip to catch the brilliant show from the Keweenaw Peninsula.

Door County, Wisconsin is another option to catch the northern lights in Newport State Park, which has a Dark Sky designation.

If you have some spare days after Memorial Day weekend, you can join in on one of the most exciting things to do in the Midwest during the Historic National Road Yard Sale. This is comprised of several days of communities, individuals, shops, churches, and random roadside vendors selling their goods along 800 miles of Historic Route 40 that runs through the Midwest.

The actual sale stretches from Baltimore, Maryland to St. Louis, Missouri, and it is a festive environment through hundreds of small towns along the way as people search for yard sale treasures.

Even if you do not hit the annual National Road Yard Sale, Route 40 is the place to visit to find small antiques stores. Antique Alley in Richmond along Route 40 is one of the best locations, with a large concentration of antique sellers.

If you have ever wondered what life is like as a cowboy, you can experience it for yourself in Kansas by taking part in an authentic cattle drive. There are several working ranches in the Kansas Flint Hills and other locations that let you try your hand at horseback riding and working a cattle drive through the tallgrass prairie.

The Moore Ranch near Dodge City and the Lazy T Ranch near Manhattan have experiences that let you consider a range of jobs related to a cattle drive. You become a part of the working crew and see what life is like on the ranch, experiencing everything from herding and roping to sitting around the campfire sharing cowboy poetry.

Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Kansas

The Ohio and Indiana Amish Country is a must-experience in the Midwest. No agenda is needed to explore the quiet back roads and simple way of life. The Amish communities in Ohio are located in the northeastern counties of Adams, Geauga, Holmes, Hardin, Wayne, and Tuscarawas.

You will get the best experience by staying at a bed and breakfast, where you can start your day with homemade meals using locally sourced eggs and produce. You will share the road with horses and buggies and see Amish workers in the fields. The fall is an especially beautiful and picturesque time to visit.

The Indiana Amish communities are connected by the Heritage Trail scenic loop , which goes through Elkhart, Middlebury, Goshen, Bristol, Shipshewana, Nappanee, and Wakarusa. You will see many small Amish-owned shops and clothing drying on the lines.

• Read More: Ohio's Amish Country: Highlights and Hidden Treasures

To experience one of the best natural attractions in the Midwest, you need to go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore near Traverse City in Michigan. This is where kids and those who want to feel like kids again can climb the mountainous sand dunes that tower 450 feet above Lake Michigan .

The full sand dunes experience will take three to four hours as you go up and down the dunes for about 3.5 miles in a path to Lake Michigan. When you are worn out from climbing the dunes, you can relax on the 35 miles of shoreline and enjoy the breeze coming off the lake.

The Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota is one of the top tourist destinations in the United States because people have to see it to believe it. It is a massive shopping and entertainment complex with more than 520 stores, an aquarium, and a seven-acre amusement park all under the same roof.

There are also more than 60 restaurants, so you have plenty of places to re-fuel as you make your way through the many levels. The Mall of America is as much about the attractions inside as the shopping.

There are many family-friendly attractions, like the Crayola Experience, which lets kids make their own personalized crayon, and the LEGO store. The Nickelodeon Universe amusement park has 27 indoor rides and attractions.

Address: 2131 Lindau Lane, Bloomington, Minnesota

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Minnesota

The Platte River in central Nebraska is one of the must-see places in the Midwest during the Sandhill crane migration every spring. This is when 500,000 cranes stop at the Platte River to rest during their migration. The cranes have been landing in the region for years, and now the massive migrating flocks have become a tourist attraction.

Seeing the cranes requires waking up before dawn to get to the perfect spots on the river, as the cranes make their appearance. There are a number of tours and guides in the area that can help make sure that you get to the right place at the right time for this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Nebraska

There is no other experience comparable to visiting a state fair in the Midwest. These wholesome fairs are important to the agricultural roots of the states, which is why you will find livestock competitions and contests for various types of produce. Activities at these state fairs range from learning how to milk a cow to watching concerts.

Each state has something that makes their fair unique. In Ohio , the design of the famous butter cow sculpture is anticipated every year. The Minnesota State Fair is known for its magnificent gardens. The Indiana State Fair is one of the oldest in the country and focuses on agriculture and quirky exhibits, like the world's largest popcorn ball .

The famous Gateway Arch in St. Louis is not only exciting to see from the ground but it's even more spectacular from inside.

It is the tallest monument in the United States , and you can take a tram all the way to the top. Look out at the city from 630 feet in the air and have a new perspective of one of the most recognized symbols in the country when you return to the ground.

Besides taking a trip to the top of the Gateway Arch, there is a nice museum with exhibits relating to American settlement. You will also find information about the creation of the arch and what it took to build it.

• Read More: Top Attractions in St. Louis

While the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri got plenty of attention with the hit tv series " Ozark," it already had plenty of appeal to those who enjoy outdoor recreation. With more than 1,000 miles of shoreline, the Lake of the Ozarks has many spots for swimming, fishing, boating or just lying on the beach.

The outdoor recreation on land covers hiking, horseback riding, backpacking, and bicycling. Although this is a popular Midwest recreation spot, it is easy to find solitude in nature given that the landscape is so spread out.

Walk the trails in the Lake of the Ozarks State Park or take a relaxing naturalist tour guided by lantern light to learn about the plants and wildlife that are so diverse in this region. Overnight camping is allowed year-round, or you can rent a cabin or yurt to extend your stay.

Some of the most exciting travel finds in the Midwest are along a section of I-94 in North Dakota, also known as the Enchanted Highway.

This 32-mile stretch of highway runs from Gladstone to Regent, and it is adorned with unusually large metal sculptures with scenes that depict everything from birds and grasshoppers to fish and a stagecoach.

These massive sculptures are worth photographing and admiring. Most have pull-offs and parking lots nearby so you can plan a leisurely drive to see all of the creations. These metal masterpieces were designed by artist Gary Greff to give travelers a reason to come through his town of Regent. It worked.

Even if you are just passing through North Dakota , planning a detour along the Enchanted Highway is worth the extra time. Start at the world's largest scrap metal sculpture , Geese in Flight , and round out your excursion with a picnic next to the oversized Tin Family creation.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

More Midwest Fun : If you are looking for other Midwest vacations you will want to review our stories on the top tourist attractions in Minnesota and Illinois . Each of these has a long list of things to do in summer or winter.

There are also some great things to do in Wisconsin , particularly in Milwaukee , Door County peninsula, and in the pedestrian-friendly capital of Madison .

Exploring Ohio : Ohio has a range of getaways, from beaches along the shores of Lake Erie to the north and forested land popular for outdoor adventure to the south.

Places like Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island are popular for summer vacations and spring break, but the backroads that run through small towns make for enjoyable, leisurely ways to explore the state.

More on Indiana

A first-timer's guide to the Midwest

Sep 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Chicago and other cities in the Midwest are the region's finest asset © Oleggg / Shutterstock

Think the Midwest is just a cornfield you fly over between coasts? Don’t be fooled by that nonsense.

The region holds impressive cities like Chicago , Detroit and Minneapolis , full of creativity, diversity and forking good food. It also cradles the Great Lakes , which are like huge inland seas, offering beaches, dunes, resort towns and lighthouse-dotted scenery. Then there are the goofball roadside attractions – say the National Mustard Museum or the  world’s largest ball of twine  – that pop up throughout the area, plus a deep legacy of beer-making that’s still in full flow, not to mention the reasonable travel costs.

So why aren’t you here yet? Read on for what you need to know before you visit the Midwest.

When should I go to the Midwest?

Summer is peak season in the Midwest. Late May through August is when the weather warms, beaches splash and festivals rock. It’s the time to see the region in all its glory. September and October bring fall colors, bountiful orchard harvests and shoulder-season bargains, while temperatures remain pleasant – another great time to visit.

Winter tends to be cold and snowy. Some businesses reduce their hours or close for the season, though many places in northern Minnesota, Michigan and Wisconsin stay busy with skiers and snowmobilers. Lodgings and attractions in the cities typically offer their lowest prices during winter.

April and May also can be good-value months to visit, though the weather is unpredictable. Illinois, Indiana and Ohio have moderate temperatures, but it's often rainy, while the northern states can still be quite chilly.

Is it easy to get in and around the Midwest?

Chicago’s busy O'Hare International Airport (ORD) is the main gateway to the region. It’s a hub for both United and American airlines. Other big bases are Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), a hub for Delta and Spirit airlines, and Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport (MSP), a hub for Delta and Sun Country airlines.

Amtrak's national rail network centers on Chicago. Trains go daily to Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Detroit, Ann Arbor and Cleveland, and three times per week to Indianapolis.

Once you’re in the region, you’ll need a car to get around. Public transportation is scant outside of the main cities, and even within cities – with the exception of Chicago, which has a good bus and train system – you’ll likely need your own wheels to travel with ease. Be prepared for toll roads in parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Minnesota. Use an app like Google Maps to route you around toll roads or stock up on dollar bills and quarters to use at toll booths.

How long should I spend in the Midwest?

The Midwest is vast, defined by the Census Bureau as including 12 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin. To drive from Minneapolis in the west to Cleveland in the east is an 11-hour, 760-mile journey. Take distances into account when planning a trip.

You can swoop in for two days and explore one of the cool Midwestern cities. With four days, you can add some outdoor action. For instance, Chicago is close to Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana’s Amish Country . Minneapolis is near the Boundary Waters . Detroit and Ann Arbor are within range of Sleeping Bear Dunes . Cleveland is a stone’s throw from Ohio’s Amish Country .

A week lets you dig in and get a real feel for the region. You can combine a couple of cities and their surrounding sights, or strike out for further-flung regions like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park .

Top things to do in the Midwest

The Midwest’s cities are its finest asset, so start there. Chicago is the crown jewel, right smack in the middle of the region, with sky-high architecture, world-class museums and a food-lover’s bounty. Detroit offers eye-popping street art, vintage cars, jazz clubs and art deco design. Minneapolis rocks with rowdy music clubs, edgy theater, and lots of lakes and outdoor action. Milwaukee , Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis and Ann Arbor bring on the beer, art and music in abundance too.

Nearby, but a world away, are the time-warped little towns in northern Indiana and northeastern Ohio that hold some of the world’s largest Amish enclaves. Here people live a simple life without cars or cell phones, where horses and buggies clip-clop along the roads, and selfies don’t exist. They are places to slow way down, enjoy a slice of pie or maybe buy a cow at auction.

A ramble along Route 66 is another must to appreciate the Midwest’s charm. The famous road starts in Chicago and heads southwest through Illinois past pie-filled diners and roadside attractions like the Gemini Giant , a hulking spaceman in Wilmington, before rolling onward all the way to California.

The Midwest gets overlooked as a destination for top-notch outdoor adventures, though there are plenty here. Take Minnesota’s Boundary Waters, where you can paddle deep into the piney northern woods, wave to moose and bears, and glimpse the green-draped night lights of the aurora borealis. On Michigan’s western shore, Sleeping Bear Dunes is a gorgeous expanse to hike towering sand hills and then dip into the Caribbean-blue water for a swim. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula lays out wild landscapes for kayaking, rock climbing and mountain biking in summer, and skiing and ice caving in winter. 

Then again, you could come to the Midwest and just go on a beer pilgrimage. The region has long been a brewing hotspot, thanks to the slew of German settlers who brought beer-making skills from the homeland in the 1800s. Today destination breweries such as 3 Floyds Brewing in Indiana, Bell’s Brewery in Michigan and New Glarus Brewing Co in Wisconsin are among the many that carry on the tradition.

My favorite thing to do in the Midwest

I love the urban-rural mashup in the Midwest. I live in Chicago, one of the greatest cities on the planet. A walk along the beach-strewn Lakefront Trail, with Lake Michigan bobbing out over the horizon, in the shadow of some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers? Awesome. I can travel a couple hours in any direction, and it’s a whole different scene. I can hike up windblown sand peaks at Indiana Dunes National Park, pick blueberries at a southwest Michigan farm or admire a 15ft-tall Paul Bunyan statue wielding his giant ax along an Illinois backroad.

There’s always a modest diner to stop into for a slice of chocolate cream pie, a chatty bar to belly up at for a glass of local beer, or a roadside stand to swing by for fresh-picked veggies.

How much money do I need for the Midwest?

The Midwest is remarkably affordable. Food and lodging in Chicago, Minneapolis and the region’s other main hubs cost less than in big cities in the south and on the coasts of the USA, and the quality remains high. Many chefs, artists and designers have moved here precisely because of the lower costs.

• Hostel dorm bed: $40–60
• Midrange hotel room for two: $160–275
• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $100–225
• Public transport day pass: $4–6
• Diner burger: $9–14
• Dinner for two: $40–60
• Beer at a bar: $6–8

Are there any don't-miss foods I should try?

Walleye, perch and other freshwater fish are delicious throughout the region. State specialties include cheese curds in Wisconsin, hotdishes (casseroles) in Minnesota, pasties (mini meat pies) in Michigan, pork tenderloin sandwiches in Indiana and three-ways (bowls of chili, spaghetti and cheese) in Ohio. Definitely order pie for dessert wherever you are.

Any local lingo I should know?

'Pop' is soda, like Coke or Sprite. 'Up north' typically means the northern, woodsy areas of Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan.

Are there any dangers or annoyances I should be aware of? 

Mosquitoes bite throughout the Midwest in summer. Bring insect repellent, especially if you’re heading to northern Minnesota, Wisconsin and Michigan, where black flies also add to the irritation.

Breaking waves and dangerous currents may be present at Great Lakes beaches. If no lifeguard is present, check the local weather forecast about area conditions before getting in the water.

How cold does it get? What should I pack?

In snowy northern towns like Duluth, Minnesota, and Marquette, Michigan, the average high temperature in January is around 20°F. In places further south, such as Columbus, Ohio, it’s a bit warmer, around 36°F. Pack a warm coat and boots if you’re visiting in winter. Bring a sweater any time of year, because even in summer, it can get cool in the evenings.

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The 13 Most Beautiful Places in the Midwest

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Before we dive into things, it’s important to identify the Midwest. If you want to get technical (why not?), it’s one of four census-designated regions of the United States and covers the northern central part of the country. Specifically, the federal government defines it as the states of Illinois , Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan , Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsin—in other words, it spans a lot of gorgeous ground.

OK, now that we got that out of the way, let’s talk about this beautiful and bountiful area. The Midwest has everything from stunning seashores and towering mountains to prairies, glimmering lakes and lush forests. While it’s hard to pick the prettiest spots (because there are just so many options), we love a good challenge. So here it is…the 13 most beautiful places in the Midwest.

9 LITTLE-KNOWN LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES WHERE CROWDS ARE FEW AND FAR BETWEEN

1. Badlands National Park (south Dakota)

Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed the protected land that we know as Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Today, this sprawling 244,000-acre expanse—which is home to bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and black-footed ferrets—draws millions of visitors who come from near and far for the chance to see the wild, untamed beauty of grasslands, striking layered rock formations and deep canyons. Don’t leave without checking out some of the fascinating fossils discovered in the park.

Explore the hotels near Badlands National Park

2. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (michigan)

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is one of the most scenic spots in the entire Wolverine State. Sandy beaches, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes make it ideal for all sorts of outdoor recreation, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. It’s also super relaxing. We certainly wouldn’t fault you for posting up near the sky-high, windswept dunes and just soaking in the serenity-inducing glory of it all.

Explore the hotels near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

3. Voyageurs National Park (minnesota)

Any Midwesterner worth his or her salt has fond memories of visiting Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota. If you haven’t been to this sprawling 218,055-acre, year-round playground of outdoor adventure, it’s high time you rectify that. Advertised as “a park of water, island and horizons,” Voyageurs National Park fully lives up to its promises with a seemingly endless array of rocky outcrops, dramatic cliffs, wetlands, hardwood forests, streams and lakes.

Explore the hotels near Voyageurs National Park

4. Cuyahoga Valley National Park (ohio)

Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is quite literally a sight for sore eyes. Or, should we say that it will take your breath away? Either way, both overused expressions fully apply to this absolutely stunning place that’s packed with native plants and animals. The maze-like forests, rolling hills and waterfalls are best explored on foot or by bicycle. Our advice? Follow the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. If you have time, definitely hop aboard the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad.

Explore the hotels near Cuyahoga Valley National Park

5. Shawnee National Forest (illinois)

When you envision Illinois , Chicago probably pops up first. Way beyond the urban enticements of the Windy City, in the southern part of the state, between the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, sits an abundance of scenic beauty as far as the eye can see. Yes, clearly, we’re talking about Shawnee National Forest, where Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, and the 403-mile multi-use Rim Rock Recreational Trail are just three of the many magnificent sights.

Explore hotels near Shawnee National Forest

6. The Dells (wisconsin)

Fun fact: Wisconsin Dells boasts more family-friendly water parks per capita than anywhere else in the country. (That's not why we picked it for our roundup, just something interesting to note.) It’s the limestone cliffs, caves, arches and columns that really do it for us—one glance at the striated rock formations and you’ll surely agree. The best way to peep all this geological gorgeousness? Rent a kayak or book a boat tour.

Explore hotels in The Dells

7. Scotts Bluff National Monument (nebraska)

Nebraska doesn't always get the tourism credit it deserves with, perhaps, the exception of Scotts Bluff National Monument. Comprising 3,000 acres of ancient land formations and vast prairie lands, this living legend is widely beloved for its rugged beauty. Scotts Bluff, its namesake crown jewel, which towers 800 feet above the North Platte River, was an important landmark for travelers moving westward during the 19th century. Even if you don’t care a lick about history, it’s just super cool to see IRL.

Explore hotels near Scotts Bluff National Monument

8. The Bridges Of Madison County (iowa)

Did you know that Madison County has the largest collection of covered bridges anywhere in the western half of the Mississippi Valley? The sheer architectural stunningness just never seems to end. Every few minutes, there’s another gem that's somehow more impressive than the last. Wondering where to start? The historic 107-foot-long Roseman Covered Bridge, which you might recognize from the 1995 romantic drama flick The Bridges of Madison County, based on the best-selling novel of the same name.

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9. Peninsula State Park (wisconsin)

Peninsula State Park in Door County is teeming with natural beauty—towering bluffs, sandy stretches, cedar forests, scenic overlooks and more. Like it’s borderline unfair that one place could possibly pack that many spectacular sights into a 3,776-acre area. Thankfully, it’s set up in such a brilliantly visitor-friendly way that you can really enjoy it all with ease. We’d be remiss not to mention the plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. There are a slew of bike trails, plus trout streams, campsites and even an 18-hole golf course.

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10. Lake Of The Ozarks State Park (missouri)


Please forget everything you’ve seen on Jason Bateman’s dark drama television series. OK, great, now envision a picturesque place that’s all about swimming, boating and just all-around waterfront fun. What we’re describing is Lake of the Ozarks State Park. An outdoor paradise in Missouri that’s among the best and most beautiful vacation destinations in the Midwest, it welcomes 2.5 million people each year.

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11. Pictured Rocks National Seashore (michigan)

Perched on the shore of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore overflows with fantastical scenery. If the sandstone cliffs, sheltered beaches, sky-grazing dunes, waterfalls, shimmering lakes and abundant forests aren’t enough to convince you that Pictured Rocks National Seashore deserves at least a few of your hard-earned vacation days, we’d be willing to bed that the hiking, camping , kayaking and wildlife-peeping most certainly will.

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12. Hocking Hills State Park (ohio)

The natural wonders of Hocking Hills State Park never cease to amaze. Located 57 miles from Columbus (though it feels like a world away), this beguiling area brims with forests, cascading falls, caves and gorges. Whether you prefer taking it easy and just going for a leisurely stroll surrounded by breathtaking beauty or tackling more strenuous trails, Hocking Hills State Park is a destination that should be included on any self-respecting Midwest bucket list.

Explore hotels near Hocking Hills State Park

13. Monument Rocks National Landmark (kansas)


Kansas has a diversity of intriguing attractions (way more than most people realize). We legit can’t get enough of Monument Rocks National Landmark in Gove County. Selected as the first landmark in the state by the Department of Interior on October 31, 1968, for reasons that will soon become glaringly obvious, this treasure features a series of chalk pyramids, pinnacles, buttes and spires that attracts photographers and tourists from all over.

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THE 10 MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN ILLINOIS

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18 Midwest Towns Our Writers Say You Should Visit In 2023

• Destinations
• United States

The Midwest may not get as much love as the coasts, but it has plenty to discover. To find the best of the Midwest, we reached out to our expert travel writers. Here’s where they recommend visiting this year in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

1. Galena, Illinois

Time has stopped in Galena . “Here, you are transported to a simpler time filled with home-baked Americana at every turn,” describes Robyne Stevenson . Its quaint downtown is filled with historical buildings and plenty of cafes and restaurants serving up Midwest fare. A plethora of options for beer and wine are also available, including libations from nearby wineries and breweries.

U.S. President Grant lived here and his home is open for tours. There are plenty of other spots to explore for historical interest in the town and nearby. Stevenson enjoyed going up to the bluff to explore Horseshoe Mound preserve for expansive views of the Mississippi River and the valleys below.

If you go in the summer, you can enjoy kayaking or boating on the Galena River that runs through the center of town. Stevenson suggests having a picnic at Grant Park, which overlooks the river, and wandering through the Civil War monuments.

There are plenty of guest houses and motels, including the DeSoto House Hotel , the oldest operating hotel in the state. “It boasts a tavern, courtyard restaurant, and historic touches throughout the hotel and rooms,” Stevenson tells us. While summer is the sweet spot for visiting Galena, spring and fall bring fun festivals. Any time of year is a good time to go antiquing, visit quaint shops, and enjoy the food on Main Street.

2. Elkhart, Indiana

Just east of South Bend , Elkhart, Indiana has long been known as the RV Capital of the World, but last summer, Cindy Ladage discovered the city’s art scene. “The Midwest Museum of American Art is right across the street from the recently restored historic Hotel Elkhart ,” she says, “so you can walk to the museum from the hotel.” Beautiful murals decorate the town, too.

“ The Lerner Theatre is available to tour when no acts are performing,” she says. Art from the Midwest Museum is on display at the theater as well.

The Elkhart River and St. Joseph River make a lovely backdrop for this vibrant city that features fun dining spots and historic homes like Ruthmere to tour. For outdoor fun, Ladage suggests checking out Wellfield Botanic Gardens .

3. South Bend, Indiana

“You know when you travel somewhere that really surprises you? That’s how I felt about South Bend ,” Rebecca Deurlein tells us. Her most memorable experience in South Bend was urban white water rafting. Instead of shooting the rapids in nature, careen between skyscrapers and avoid getting hung up in man-made boulders. “I was in the middle of the city on the East Race Waterway , and it was quite surreal,” recalls Deurlein.

Potato Creek State Park offers plenty of activities, including kayaking through wetlands, biking along woodlands, and bird watching on Lake Worster. Devour a burger and cheese curds at Howard Park Public House . Quench your thirst at Indiana Whiskey Company , South Bend Brew Werks , or Ironhand Wine Bar . “No visit to South Bend is complete without a tour of Notre Dame,” according to Deurlein, who says, “You’ve seen it in the movies, but it’s a thrill to stand before Touchdown Jesus .”

4. Fort Dodge, Iowa

A quintessential Midwest town, Fort Dodge, Iowa , oozes “Midwest nice” according to Amy Piper . Located on the Des Moines River in central Iowa, this family-friendly destination combines history and art. “It’s the perfect trip to take the grandkids on during summer vacation,” Piper tells us.

The littles will love the Back 40 Playground at the Community Orchard (open seasonally, August through October) and the Children’s Forest at Kennedy Park . Those interested in art will find Fort Dodge Grain Silo Mural and the Blanden Memorial Art Museum an educational experience. Those who enjoy nature and history will find engaging activities at Fort Museum & Frontier Village (open seasonally — reopens in April 2023).

Fort Frenzy Family Fun Center is a family entertainment center that offers indoor activities, including a full arcade, go-karts, and laser tag, so it’s an excellent rainy-day option. Another rainy-day attraction is Studio Fusion , where everyone can get involved in an art project.

No matter the age of your grandchildren, there’s plenty to keep them interested and cheerfully busy in Fort Dodge.

5. Muscatine, Iowa

A trip to the beautiful town of Muscatine is in order according to Cindy Ladage. The Iowa town is “known as the Pearl of the Mississippi because of the history of the pearl button industry, which started when a German immigrant brought this huge manufacturing story to the shores of the Big Muddy !” she tells us.

Ladage loved her stay at the lovely Merrill Hotel , which is located right across from the Mississippi River close to Muscatine’s historic downtown. It provides a good jumping-off point to explore the river walk and The National Pearl Button Museum . Pine Creek Grist Mill , the oldest grist mill this side of the Mississippi, is just a short drive away in Wild Den State Park .

Muscatine Art Center is a historic house, art gallery, and history museum all rolled into one. “Then there is lots of fun shopping and dining!” exclaims Ladage. “A fun stop all around!”

6. Wichita, Kansas

Whether you’re seeking a stop on a summer road trip , a break from city life, or are trying to cross all 50 states off your list and don’t know what to see in Kansas, Wichita checks all the boxes according to Jill Robbins . Within driving distance of Dallas, Omaha, and Oklahoma City, Wichita is easy to get to, with direct flights available from Chicago, Atlanta, Houston, and Seattle. With enough activities to fill 2 days to a week, the flexibility of Wichita is a huge perk for travelers.

“Although history buffs will enjoy exploring a slice of Old West frontier life at the Old Cowtown Museum , there’s a decidedly hipster vibe in Wichita as well,” says Robbins. From trendy restaurants ( Public at the Brickyard is Robbins can’t-miss) to art walks through the Douglas Design District, there’s more here than prairie and sunflowers.

If you’re seeking to travel more sustainably , know that downtown Wichita has a robust public transportation system with a free shuttle and bike- and scooter-sharing programs.

Make time at the end of the day for The Ring of Fire at the Keeper of the Plains statue. This monument, symbolizing the Native American relationship with the earth, fire, and water, is worth seeing during the day, too. “The best time to visit Wichita is spring, summer, and fall,” Robbins advises, “which are the most pleasant times to be outdoors.”

7. Wilson, Kansas

On the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway in Kansas lies Wilson , a small prairie town with a big egg. “But it’s no ordinary egg,” Ann Bush tells us. “Designated the Czech Capital of Kansas in 1974 due to the history of Czech immigrant settlers remaining in the area, the hand-painted 20-foot-tall Czech egg was a sight to see for these old Czech eyes.”

A boom town when the Kansas Pacific Railway built Wilson Station in 1865, Wilson’s downtown retains beautiful sandstone-blocked buildings surrounded by a well-kept residential area. The original jailhouse remains a tourist attraction for many. The Midland Railroad Hotel has been stunningly restored. Don’t miss delicious food served near an elegant hand-carved bar downstairs. On January 27, 2023, the hotel is hosting a bluegrass festival .

Each July, a huge Czech festival is held, celebrating generations of culture, food, and crafts.

8. Excelsior Springs, Missouri

Loaded with history and located just outside of Kansas City, Excelsior Springs, Missouri , is an adorable Midwest town to place on your travel list this year according to Erika Ebsworth-Goold .

In the late 1880s, word spread that water from the area’s bubbling springs had curative powers, and people from all over the country arrived to “take the water.” The town’s flagship spa, The Elms , was built to accommodate them. “The manor-type estate was recently renovated and features large rooms, a lovely outdoor pool area, and a terrific spa with several treatment rooms. “The focus on wellness extends to yoga and mindfulness sessions offered by staff,” says Ebsworth-Goold.

Additionally, downtown Excelsior Springs boasts beautiful boutiques, cafes, pubs, and lots of art — look for the large murals depicting scenes from the town’s past on several historic buildings. And a big bonus for wine lovers: There are two local vineyards, Four Horses and a Dog and Fence Stile .

9. Joplin, Missouri

You may have heard of Joplin because of the devastating tornado that struck the southwestern Missouri town in 2011. Since then, this little town on the outskirts of the Ozark Mountains has recovered very nicely, Carol Colborn assures us.

Discover Grand Falls , the tallest natural waterfall in the state at just 12 feet high. Nearby, the Precious Moments Chapel features Sistine Chapel-inspired murals.

Finally, the George Washington Carver National Monument honors the American scientist, botanist, educator, and inventor. “Recently, I discovered the inspiring Praying Hands Memorial and the Ampersand Sculpture . The giant “and” sign honors Joplin history, including infamous outlaws Bonnie and Clyde .

10. St. Joseph, Missouri

Many know St. Louis as the Gateway to the West, but St. Joseph also has that claim to fame, sans fancy arch. This small town north of Kansas City, Missouri, is one of Kathleen Walls picks for best Midwestern towns to visit in 2023.

Patee House Museum & the Jesse James Home showcases the two things St. Joseph is famous for: the Pony Express headquarters and the place where outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed. “At the Pony Express National Museum , I felt I was riding the mountains and plains these young riders took,” Walls recalls of the museum dedicated to the first fast mail line across North America.

Robidoux Row Museum features westward expansion exhibits. Glore Psychiatric Museum “could be the set for a horror movie,” says Walls, but for now, it depicts treatments used at the adjacent state mental hospital that dates back to the 1800s. The Native American Museum and Black Archives Museum are part of the same complex. “ Walter Cronkite Memorial pays tribute to one of the best newsmen of the 20th century,” Walls tells us.

Walls recommends dining at J. C. Wyatt House , Fredrick Inn Steakhouse , Boudreaux’s Louisiana Seafood & Steaks , and RC’s Lunch Car . “Angry Swede Brewing Company is next door to RC’s,” says Walls. “It’s a brewery with a Prohibition-era speakeasy in the basement.”

11. North Platte, Nebraska

North Platte offers a mix of fun things to do according to Walls.

At Buffalo Bill State Historical Park , explore Scout’s Rest Ranch, the second empire-style mansion the famed Pony Express rider, Army scout, and buffalo hunter-turned-showman built during the heyday of his Wild West show .

Golden Spike Tower overlooks the world’s largest railyard, the Union Pacific’s Bailey Yard. During Rail Days , held annually in early August, visitors tour Bailey Yard with a motorcoach tour. For more rail explorations, locomote over to The Cody Park Railroad Museum to see old rail cars, including a mail car, caboose, and the only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive on display in the world.

Lincoln County Historical Museum is a group of amazing museums including Western Heritage Village and the World War II North Platte Canteen exhibit.

Walls recommends visiting in springtime, when more than 400,000 sandhill cranes migrate through for about 6 weeks, preparing for the nesting period to come. “You can watch their courtship dances and pair-bonding behaviors,” Walls tells us.

12. Omaha, Nebraska

SJ Morgensen’s favorite Midwest town is her hometown of Omaha . Nebraska’s largest city is also home to the College World Series, Boystown, Warren Buffet, Omaha Steaks, a world-famous zoo, a great indie-music scene, and so much more. “Omaha should be on your radar,” Morgensen asserts.

Catch baseball’s finest at the College World Series in June. “You’ll experience a couple of weeks of rowdy college fans, crowded bars, and pure fun!” Morgensen tells us.

America’s largest indoor desert and indoor rainforest, Henry Doorly Zoo also has the largest nocturnal exhibit in the world. These are just a few of the reasons it is consistently ranked as one of the best zoos in the U.S.

While in the area, Morgensen suggests heading to The Old Market for shopping, drinks, and dining. M’s Pub is always a favorite. “Make sure you get a steak while you’re here,” advises Morgensen, who recommends Johnny’s Cafe and Dinkers .

13. Chamberlain, South Dakota

“The town might be small but the attractions are mighty in Chamberlain,” says Shel Zolkewich of the south central South Dakota town nestled at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and the Missouri River.

Zolkewich recommends kicking off your tour of Chamberlain with a visit to Dignity: Of Earth and Sky . Standing at 50 feet tall, the stainless steel sculpture overlooks the Missouri River and honors the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota peoples. “Like seeing mountain ranges in person, there’s something about her quiet grace and mesmerizing stare that leaves an impression,” Zolkewich says.

Just a few miles away at the Aktá Lakota Museum & Cultural Center , Indigenous stories are told through intricate beadwork pieces, star quilts, photographs, and artifacts.

Chamberlain’s shining retail star is a kitchen store called berry + basil according to Zolkewich. “As the owners like to say, it’s a small-town shop with big-city perks,” she says. “They aren’t wrong. Cookware, gourmet foods, wine, and dining wares are expertly displayed in the shop’s meandering alcoves. French-made Staub cookware, posh Smeg small appliances, and a self-sharpening knife block are the stuff of home cook dreams.”

14. Pierre, South Dakota

Pronounced peer , Pierre is the nation’s second-smallest state capital. But “don’t let its size fool you,” warns Roxie Yonkey . “Pierre offers plenty to do.”

Boasting 2,250 miles of shoreline, Lake Oahe is one of the largest reservoirs in the country. The reservoir offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, making Pierre a four-season destination.

A causeway connects downtown to La Framboise Island in the Missouri River. Hike or bike on the island’s trails, then relax on one of the beaches. Watch for wild turkeys, coyotes, and whitetail deer. Catch your supper from the fishing pier.

The South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center and the South Dakota Discovery Center are among Pierre’s numerous museums.

When it comes to dining, Yonkey recommends the pan-seared walleye with Cajun seasoning at Mad Mary’s Steak House & Saloon . During the summer, treat yourself to a caramel twist deluxe sundae at Zesto .

“While Pierre is always fun to visit, Oahe Days Arts & Music Festival each June in Steamboat Park adds extra flair to the city,” Yonkey tells us.

15. Egg Harbor, Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s entire Door County peninsula is magical, Joan Sherman attests, but Egg Harbor is a prime example of why the region earned the nickname “Cape Cod of the Midwest.” About 2.5 hours north of Milwaukee , Egg Harbor is located on the bay of Green Bay .

“Amongst all the wonderful small towns of Door County, Egg Harbor earns a distinction with artistic egg displays all over town, One Barrel Brewing brewery, and local peninsula apple and cherry deliciousness at Wood’s Orchard Market ,” Sherman says.

Beautiful in all seasons, Egg Harbor is in close proximity to cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking options. It also serves as an excellent base for exploring the rest of the peninsula. Barring summer busyness and fall leaf peepers, the whole peninsula is very drivable according to Sherman. She recommends ending your day at Egg Harbor’s Harbor View Park , which she describes as “a great place to see the sun set on this adorable Midwest town.”

16. Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Elkhart Lake is an hour’s drive from the Milwaukee airport, “and that hour is all the effort you’ll expend on this water-for-days getaway,” attests Deurlein. “The grand Osthoff Resort radiates Dirty Dancing vibes,” she describes, “with a sprawling resort property that looks out over the lake (which offers old-school paddle boats with a dragon-shaped twist).”

The town is blessedly walkable, and the streets here are actually a national landmark – they were the first to feature road racing, which has now blossomed into the world-famous Road America just down the street. “ Gessert’s Ice Cream , served in hand-made waffle cones, is not to be missed,” advises Deurlein, “nor are the cheese curds and brats.”

Nightlife here ranges from honky tonk to big bands, but it’s all casual and relaxed. The resort’s top-rated spa is an additional draw. “It really is a place that keeps you as busy as you want to be and soothes your soul in the best possible way,” declares Deurlein.

17. Milton, Wisconsin

Once a booming town with a busy highway, Milton, Wisconsin , is now an off-the-beaten-path town that Melody Pittman loves.

Pittman recommends checking out the latest home decor and more at Hattie & Elsie , a cute boutique in downtown Milton. Red Rooster is another unique shop with dozens of artisans represented in a 150-year-old renovated mill.

Enjoy a glass of Big Buck Blueberry wine at Timber Hill Winery and stay for trivia or live music. “Next, head to Northleaf Winery for a wine and chocolate pairing,” instructs Pittman. “Then check in to unpack your bags at the adorable three-bedroom, three-bathroom guest house only steps away.”

Grab tasty eggs Benedict for breakfast at Cafe 26 and enjoy a special dinner at Fredrick’s Supper Club .

Milton is one of the places you can hike the unique Ice Age Trail, found on E. Storrs Lake Road. It also has a most impressive Underground Railroad history site, the Milton House Museum .

18. New Glarus, Wisconsin

A couple of hours outside of Chicago, New Glarus is a quaint town that offers a glimpse into beautiful Wisconsin small towns. “And this one has a bonus,” Sherman says, “a Swiss influence!” It is evident in everything from the architecture to the shops as well as in the foods and flavors of the area.

Beautiful in all seasons, New Glarus always has something to offer. Sherman suggests biking on the 24-mile Sugar River State Trail and/or admiring the creativity of the Cow Parade . From September 21 to 24, 2023, the town’s Oktoberfest will feature great food, local beer courtesy of New Glarus Brewing , special events like wagon rides and chainsaw wood carving, and live music. “From biking to bovines to brews, this is small-town Wisconsin at its best,” states Sherman.

Related Reading:

• 7 Fantastic Scenic Drives In Kansas
• 9 Beautiful Waterfalls To Visit In The Midwest
• 9 Life Lessons From A Multigenerational Midwest Road Trip

Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. After moving from Texas, she and her husband rambled about the Midwest in a camper for a couple of years before finally settling on 35 acres in their home state of Kentucky. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. This travel-lover's favorite destinations include Italy, the Greek isles, and Kentucky Lake.

BEST Places to Visit in the Midwest for Your Bucket List (2023)

Looking for the best places to visit in the Midwest in 2023? From the top cities to beautiful natural attractions, add these must see places to your Midwest USA bucket list .

Midwest Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in the Midwest

What States are in the Midwest?

The Midwest or the Midwestern United States consists of 12 states in the north central United States: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Illinois Bucket List

• Explore Chicago. Maybe I’m biased because it is my hometown, but I consider Chicago the best place to visit in the Midwest. There are a lot of bucket list worthy things to do in Chicago including watching a baseball game at historic Wrigley Field, taking photos of The Bean at Millennium Park, taking an architecture river cruise and more! Read:  3 Days in Chicago: Weekend Itinerary and Best Things to Do in Chicago in the Summer
• Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio and see homes he designed in Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago.
• Drive the Illinois portion of Route 66 .

• Explore Starved Rock State Park (one of the most popular attractions in Illinois) which has great hikes, stunning sandstone cliffs, canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
• Explore Matthiessen State Park which is less crowded as nearby Starved Rock State Park but just as beautiful with similar natural features such as canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
• Visit Galena, a charming and historic small town.
• Explore Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. Explore the magnificent rock formations, cliffs and trails of Garden of the Gods , the best place to go hiking in Illinois with spectacular views.
• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site , the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Illinois.
• Visit Casey, a charming historic small town which is known for its huge roadside attractions (including 12 certified Guinness World Record World’s Largest attractions ).

Read: Best Things to Do in Illinois for more places to visit in Illinois.

Indiana Bucket List

• Visit the the capital city of Indianapolis.
• Explore Turkey Run State Park, one of the best state parks for hiking.
• Explore Brown County State Park, the largest state park in Indiana and one of the best places to see beautiful fall foliage.
• Visit Indiana Dunes, a national park along the southern shore of Lake Michigan with sandy beaches and tall dunes.

Iowa Bucket List

• See the covered bridges of Madison County .
• Have fun at the Iowa State Fair . The eleven day fair (Aug 10 – 20, 2023) has food, games, rides and competitions, livestock exhibitions, shows, concerts and more.
• Recreate the famous American Gothic painting in front of the original house in Eldon depicted in the painting. Visitors to the American Gothic House are provided with costumes to wear while the staff takes photos in front of the house.
• Experience the Tulip Festival in Pella, Iowa , every May in celebration of Pella’s Dutch heritage.

Kansas Bucket List

• Eat BBQ at the famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que  in Kansas City.
• Visit Oz Museum , in the small town of Wamego, which has one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of Oz memorabilia from the classic 1939 movie.
• Visit Monument Rocks to see unique chalk rock formations. It is off the beaten path in the middle of Kansas on private property (but the owners allow visitors).

Michigan Bucket List

• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .
• Visit the historic Mackinac Island . The entire Victorian-themed island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and is car-free so visitors can only explore by foot, bicycle or horse drawn carriage.
• See tulips in Holland .
• Attend the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City.
• Explore the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
• Visit Frankenmuth, a cute city which is known for its Bavarian-style architecture. It is also home to the world’s largest christmas store which is open year round.

Minnesota Bucket List

• Visit Minneapolis-St Paul. Don’t miss the Minnehaha Regional Park (and the stunning Minnehaha Falls).
• Visit the Mall of America.
• Explore the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior .
• Explore Voyageurs National Park , a US national park featuring tall bluffs, rock gardens, islands, bays, and several historic buildings and a great place for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Missouri Bucket List

• Enjoy the view from the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Play at the City Museum , a fun museum filled with miles of tunnels, a full cave system, slides, a circus, a large outdoor climbing space, and a roof with a Ferris Wheel and a bus hanging off its edge.
• Eat some of the best BBQ in the country and explore underrated Kansas City. Read : Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)
• Explore charming St. Charles , a colonial town located 30 minutes west of downtown St. Louis, full of antique shops and restaurants.
• See the Chain of Rocks Bridge , a landmark on the Historic Route 66, this bridge connects Illinois and Missouri over the mighty Mississippi River. The middle of the bridge has a unique 22 degree bend at the middle of the crossing.
• Have fun at the Lake of the Ozarks , a popular lake destination features more than 1,100 miles of shoreline and a top destination for boating, swimming, and other water sports (and the inspiration for the popular Netflix series Ozark ).
• Visit Branson.

Nebraska Bucket List

• See Carhedge . This quirky man made attraction built from 38 vintage American cars covered in gray spray paint is a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge.
• Visit Toadstool Geologic Park (referred to as the “badlands of Nebraska”) to see unusual rock formations and fossils.
• See Chimney Rock, an iconic landmark featured on the back of the Nebraska state quarter.  The Rock is a natural geologic formation that rises approximately 300 feet above its surroundings.
• Witness the Annual Sandhill Crane Migration in the spring.
• Visit Scotts Bluff National Monument which is composed of five rock formations and contains multiple bluffs.
• Visit Omaha, Nebraska’s largest city. Some cool things to see and do in Omaha include: shopping the Old Market, Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Durham Museum.
• Visit Lincoln, the State Capitol and Nebraska’s second largest city.

North Dakota Bucket List

• Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park .
• Visit the International Peace Garden which shares a border with Canada and celebrates the peace shared between the two countries.

Ohio Bucket List

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum in Cleveland.
• Explore Hocking Hills State Park and view the beautiful sandstone formations and waterfalls.
• Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park , the only national park in Ohio, which has waterfalls, hills, trails,  historic homes, bridges, and also a scenic train ride.

South Dakota Bucket List

• See Mount Rushmore National Memorial . This sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore features the heads of four U.S. presidents.
• Explore Custer State Park .
• Explore Badlands National Park known for its spires and pinnacles.
• Explore Falls Park , a park full of small waterfalls in Sioux Falls.

Wisconsin Bucket List

• Visit Milwaukee.

• Vacation in Lake Geneva , a lakeside resort city known for its historic mansions built during the Gilded Age. Enjoy activities year round from spending time in the water and the beach in the summer to visiting the ice castles in the winter.
• Explore beautiful Door County .
• Explore the Apostle Islands and the sea caves on Lake Superior.

What are your favorite places to visit in the Midwest?

Need more travel bucket list inspiration? You might enjoy our other travel bucket lists:

• USA Travel Bucket List: 100+ Best Places to Visit
• Best Road Trips in the USA For Your Bucket List
• Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things to Do Before You Die

Related Posts

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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

Take these tips with you! Download the free road trip checklist!

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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!

Find this article helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

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. :)

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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40 Amazing Experiences for Midwest Summer Water Getaways

Tree Meinch is a lifelong travel enthusiast who cannot resist a new experience. For a story, they have chased sled dogs across the frozen Boundary Waters of Minnesota, met farmers along Uganda's Nile River, and joined Indigenous beekeepers within Mexico's Riviera Maya jungle. They previously spent time as the travel editor for Midwest Living and the features editor at Discover magazine. As a freelancer and Spanish speaker, they now channel their expertise in travel and science communication into all types of storytelling projects. When not stuck to a computer, they can be found freediving, bartending or road tripping somewhere new.

A bucket-list guide to the most Midwest ways to float in, swim through and chill out by a lake, river or creek. Summer is here. Drink it up.

Michigan and Ohio: Ferry to an Island

Charlevoix, Michigan: A two-hour ferry ride from Charlevoix brings you to Beaver Island —54 square miles that remain largely undeveloped, inhabited by foxes, migrating cranes and, naturally, beavers. In town, you'll find a few hotels and shops, a working lighthouse, sand beaches and all the fresh whitefish you can eat.

Marblehead, Catawba, Sandusky, Ohio: Leave your cares (and maybe your car) behind on a getaway to the Lake Erie shore. Kelleys Island and Put-In-Bay are the marquee names in a cluster of Lake Erie isles west of Cleveland. Highlights include beaches, a state park, a towering war memorial, small resorts—and a lifestyle that moves at a golf-cart pace.

Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, Michigan: Everything you've heard about Mackinac Island is true: The fudge. The gingerbread architecture. The carriages. And, yes, the hordes of tourists. (Escape the bustle after you've departed your ferry from Mackinaw City or St. Ignace, and get big Lake Huron views on an 8-mile bike ride or hike around the island.)

Lake Superior: Take The Plunge

Sunshine turns Lake Superior a tempting blue-green, but the Caribbean this is not. Most years, the lake's surface temp maxes out around 65 degrees. Roll up your cuffs and let the surf lick your toes, or leap in for an unforgettable baptism in the world's largest body of fresh water. Good jumping-off spots for your Lake Superior adventure include Duluth , Minnesota; Bayfield , Wisconsin; and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

Minnesota: Go to The Source

Park Rapids: The Mississippi River cuts through our nation's heart—a 2,300-some-mile artery of commerce and culture. Hero of literature and song. Life-giving and life-taking. Where it flexes its muscle, the river stretches miles wide. But at the headwaters in Itasca State Park, the Mississippi spills from a serene Minnesota lake as a slim channel, shallow, clear and cold. To avoid tourists, come early. In the quiet of a new day, you can cross the infant river on stepping stones, alone with your thoughts, save for an occasional chortling loon.

South Dakota: See an Urban Waterfall

Sioux Falls: At Falls Park— a highlight of South Dakota's largest city —7,400 gallons of water cascade over gorgeous pink Sioux quartzite boulders every second.

Fish come in all sizes, and all spirits too. Little bluegills hang out under docks, their curiosity piqued by nothing more than a bit of hot dog on a child's hook. Walleye lurk deep in cold waters and fight back with Melvillean furor. Trout play coy, chasing feathered flies that flit on the surface of rippling streams. Catfish just seem dopey. But big or small, easy or tough, in a pond or on a Great Lake, catching them always follows the same arc. The bait. The wait. The tug on the line. The leap of the heart. The reeling in—a timeless battle of survival and will, energy coursing between two species along a single taut filament, the victor never a guarantee.

Minnesota: (Re)Visit Highway 61

Duluth to Canada: Made famous by native son Bob Dylan, Minnesota's North Shore Scenic Drive is thick with gems . Historic Split Rock Lighthouse. Rocky beaches. Family-run smokehouses. And so very many waterfalls, plunging through pristine woods, out to Lake Superior.

Indiana: Stroll an Ancient Reef

Clarksville: Time travel 390 million years back at Falls of the Ohio State Park, where amateur paleontologists can hunt for 600-plus different types of Devonian fossils on rock beds washed clean by the Ohio River. Some creatures are as big as a bus, others tinier than a pencil tip.

Illinois and Nebraska: Pick Up a Paddle

With the right attitude, any kayak trip is an adventure. But these three rivers are truly one of a kind.

Valentine, Nebraska: The Niobrara National Scenic River offers days' worth of calm paddling in the scenic Sandhills, with countless spots to pull off and hike (including to Nebraska's tallest waterfall, Smith Falls).

Cypress, Illinois: Ancient cypress trees rise from the swampy Cache River Wetlands, part of a state-run natural area you'll want to explore on a southern Illinois getaway . Hushed and eerily beautiful, it's the northernmost marsh of its kind in the U.S.

Chicago: For a new perspective on the Windy City, join a guided float down the Chicago River and get an architecture lesson in the shadows of glittering skyscrapers.

Wisconsin: Eat Fish by The Fire

Door County: Six ingredients make up a Door County fish boil: whitefish, water, potatoes, salt, butter and lemon. Well, seven, if you count the kerosene, splashed on the open fire for the grand finale.

Wisconsin: Explore a Sea Cave

Bayfield: Apostle Islands National Lakeshore encompasses 12 miles of rugged Lake Superior coast and most of a 22-island archipelago. You can take a narrated cruise from Bayfield, gateway to the Apostle Islands, but the real thrill is guiding a kayak through caves carved over millennia by the water.

Michigan: Meet Mac

Opened in 1957, the Mackinac Bridge stretches for 5 miles between Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, spanning the point where lakes Michigan and Huron kiss. As many as 30,000 people come each Labor Day to hike across it. If you're there another day of the year, you might be driving from Lower Peninsula destinations like Traverse City or Petoskey to the towns and parks of the Upper Peninsula .

Missouri: Row, Row, Row A Boat

St. Louis: Hey, Bridget Jones fans. You know that scene where Bridge and Daniel recite bawdy limericks in a rowboat on a gauzy afternoon? That could be you, in Forest Park, drifting with your sweetie around the 1904 World's Fair-era Grand Basin. Parasol recommended.

Great Lakes States: Comb a Beach

No promise of a message in a bottle, but freshwater waves polish and deliver treasure, same as any salt sea. Keep your eyes down to find fossil-freckled Petoskey stones by Lake Michigan, agate along Lake Superior or colorful glass on any Great Lakes shore in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio and Wisconsin.

Minnesota and Michigan: Camp With a Moose

Ely, Minnesota: A moose sighting up north is a rite of passage. Just about the best odds are at dawn and dusk in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, a million-acre patchwork of lakes and forest along the Canada border.

Michigan: More than 2,000 moose roam Isle Royale National Park, a cluster of 450-plus islands in Lake Superior accessible only by air or water. See moose feeding at inland lakes and beaver ponds, or cooling off in the forest shade. (Always be sure to maintain a safe distance from a moose and follow other safe-viewing guidelines .)

Wisconsin: Let It All Slide

Wisconsin Dells: Every once in a while, a gushy marketing nickname is actually correct. Case in point: the Waterpark Capital of the World. Swoosh around every flume the Dells throw at you, then line up (with a zillion other families) to do it again.

Ohio: Look Back—And Forward

Cincinnati: For slaves in the antebellum South, the Ohio River marked the boundary of freedom. With its meditation labyrinth, Black Brigade Monument to volunteer soldiers, and zany all-ages toys, free Smale Riverfront Park cleverly invites both play and reflection. Rock on riverfront porch-swing benches and take in the view—then take in the rest of what Cincinnati has to offer .

Kick Back in a Tube

Philosophical question: If a summer passes without floating downriver in a big inflated donut tethered to your friends—and to a tube you've rented just to carry the cooler—have you really summered at all?

Indiana and Michigan: Scale a Sandy Ridge

Lake Michigan's epic dunes are living mountains—shaped by wind, stitched together by plant roots and subtly changed each time we walk upon them.

Portage, Indiana: Some 50 miles of trails crisscross Indiana Dunes National Park's diverse and fragile ecosystem. Look for Chicago from the Dune Succession Trail at West Beach.

Empire, Michigan: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, northwest of Traverse City , stretches for 35 achingly gorgeous miles; the highest dune drops 450 feet into the cerulean abyss of Lake Michigan.

Nebraska: Go Tanking

Some water sports are, you know, sports. Others are acts of pure sloth. Enter tanking, a uniquely Nebraskan pastime of floating down a river in a cattle tank. No oar. No pole. No motor. In fact, no steering, acceleration or propulsion of any kind. (Though some outfitters rig tanks with bench seats and tables for playing cards or holding drinks.) You can hitch a tank most anywhere in the state, but the Calamus, Middle Loup and Cedar rivers are hot spots.

Visit Chicago

That's it. Just go to Chicago and feel how water courses through the Windy City's veins. Zip down Lake Shore Drive, flanked by high-rises and Lake Michigan. (Or rent a bike to ride on the parallel trail.) Watch bridges lift for sailboats along the revived Chicago River. (Or see it happen from the inside out at the Bridgehouse Museum .) Join the party on Oak Street Beach. (Or escape it on 12th Street Beach.) Wade in Crown Fountain , where glowing portraits "spit" on gleeful kids. (Or stay dry watching Buckingham Fountain's regular light and water shows.) Take to the sky on Navy Pier's Ferris wheel for a 360-degree view of how water shapes this town. (Or get a four-state vista from the Willis Tower .) We could go on—but you're probably already there.

Michigan: Hunt for a Shipwreck

Alpena: Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary protects a swath of Lake Huron known as Shipwreck Alley . Peer into the depths of maritime history on a glass-bottom boat tour.

Iowa: Cruise Like a Victorian

LeClaire: Sure, it's a little old-school, but the Riverboat Twilight is one of the Mississippi's most memorable rides, with stops in historic towns, narrated sightseeing and pitch-perfect live banjo music on deck.

Michigan: Cruise Colored Cliffs

Munising to Grand Marais: Pictured Rocks National Lakeshor e gets its name from striking sandstone cliffs streaked by minerals. It's especially lovely at sunset. See the Lake Superior lakeshore by tour boat or kayak, or explore the forested shoreline to hike to beaches and waterfalls.

Picnic on a Pontoon

All hail the minivan of the not-so-high seas. Comfy. Roomy. Trusty. (Aerodynamics are so overrated.) Head out early, stop for a swim, snack on potato chips—and when the sun sets, put on home.

Great Lakes States: Climb to a Lighthouse lookout

Hundreds of lighthouses ring the Great Lakes, many open seasonally for visitors ( some even for overnight guests ). Get ready for a steep climb up spiral steps to see sweeping lake vistas—and hear or read tales about lighthouse keepers' solitary lives. Find your happy lighthouse spot in Michigan, Wisconsin, Illinois, Ohio, Minnesota or Indiana.

Missouri: Love a Lily Pond

St. Louis: Starting in July, giant water lilies bloom in the reflecting pools of the Missouri Botanical Garden. The plants—which can grow as fast as an inch an hour—have leaf spans of up to six feet. If St. Louis isn't on your summer itinerary, most Midwest botanical gardens boast one or more lakes or ponds that might show off aquatic plants, fountains or waterfalls.

South Dakota: Escape into a Canyon

Spearfish: Home to some of the best scenery in the Black Hills, the Spearfish Canyon gorge holds cliffs, waterfalls and forests, easily accessible from the 22-mile Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway.

Kansas: Sail on a Prairie Wind

Cheney: Unfettered by hills or trees, breezes roll into mighty winds outside Wichita , making Cheney State Park and Reservoir one of the most unlikely big-time sailing destinations in the United States.

Minnesota: Vacation in a Houseboat

International Falls: At Voyageurs National Park , a maze of waterways carries boaters into boreal forest where the namesake fur trappers once reigned. Rented houseboats are a popular choice for multiday trips in the 340-square-mile park.

Michigan: Raft Across a Spring

Manistique: At Palms Book State Park , ride on a hand-cranked raft across Kitch-iti-kipi, the state's largest freshwater spring, gushing more than 10,000 gallons per minute. You'll be mesmerized by swirling clouds of sand and ancient tree trunks.

Minnesota: Go for a Gondola Ride

Stillwater: Former Boundary Waters guide John Kerschbaum traded canoe paddling for cruising on Gondola Romantica in 2000 (after shipping an authentic vessel from Venice to Minnesota). He's been crooning to lovers on the St. Croix ever since, one of the many charms of Stillwater .

Wisconsin: Get a Million-Dollar View

Lake Geneva: The famously clear Geneva Lake is ringed by resorts, vacation homes and 19th-century mansions. Excursions on Lake Geneva Cruise Line offer close-up views of the Victorian mansions around the spring-fed lake, while more than 25 miles of lakeshore walking paths run through the manicured grounds of estates, most still privately owned.

Minnesota: Watch History Rise

Duluth: Gawk at the 135-foot-tall Aerial Lift Bridge as it rises more than 20 times each day for sailboats and skyscraper-length ships traveling between Lake Superior and Duluth Harbor. The first version of the unusual bridge was completed in 1905, and a remodeled bridge opened in 1930.

Kansas: See Fire and Water

Wichita: At the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers, Keeper of the Plains honors local Native American tribes. At 9 p.m. in the summer, flames from the fire drums illuminate the river. Another way to experience the statue: sunset or sunrise views from a kayak.

Wisconsin: Cheer for water-skiers

Minocqua : The Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show lures visitors three nights a week throughout the summer to the lakeside vacation hub of Minocqua . Started in 1950, the show bills itself as the oldest continual amateur waterski show in the U.S.

Michigan: Explore an Island Park

Detroit: The 900-acre Belle Isle Park in the Detroit River delivers a lineup of next-to-nature moments. Its free aquarium features more than 1,000 fish; also see a marble lighthouse, beach, conservatory (slated to reopen in 2024 after renovations) and maritime museum.

Nebraska: Play on the Prairie

Lake McConaughy: Sailing, parasailing, fishing and kiteboarding are all popular on Lake McConaughy, Nebraska's largest lake (near the Colorado border). The 100-mile shoreline is perfect for camping —spots fill quickly.

Michigan: Do the Docks

Leland: A walk down the docks in Fishtown —one of the few unmodernized fishing villages on the Great Lakes— reveals weathered shanties that house both a working waterfront as well as cafes and boutiques. See it on a day trip from Traverse City.

Illinois: Discover a Mule's Pace

LaSalle: It's slow going on a replica 19 th -century mule-pulled canal boat, but that's the point of a journey on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Period guides will even give you a lesson in mule-tending.

Indiana: Float Underground

Corydon: Descend 110 feet into a drippy cavern and board a boat to explore Indiana's longest cave, with a 35-foot waterfall, blind cave crayfish and rimstone dams. Also at Indiana Caverns Family Adventure Park: the Deep Darkness tour, four hours of splashing, kayaking, climbing and crawling.

Splash in a Creek

You probably don't need to go much beyond your neighborhood to find a creek . Get your trusty Tevas wet as you step from stone to stone and see where the journey leads. Look for minnows, dragonflies and tadpoles, and take a few deep breaths while you listen to the calming sound of water tumbling over rocks.

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10 Best Small Towns in the Midwest

Move over, Chicago — the Midwest is also home to some stellar small towns.

The Midwest is a region that really has it all in terms of landscapes, from the gorgeous Great Lakes to striking sand dunes, densely wooded forests, and beyond. The bucolic, wide-open spaces and dynamic cities of America's heartland are ripe for exploration, as more visitors focus on previously overlooked domestic destinations.

And while many travelers will only converge on major destinations like Detroit , Chicago , or Minneapolis, the Midwest's small towns make for memorable excursions, too. With that in mind, we've rounded up 10 of the best small towns in the area with less than 11,000 residents. Read on to plan your next Midwestern getaway .

Petoskey, Michigan

Roberto Galan / Getty Images

This cute waterfront town sits near the "Tip of the Mitt'' in the northern reaches of Michigan's Lower Peninsula. Enjoy the historic downtown, where you'll find artisanal preserves gem American Spoon , former Hemingway haunt Stafford's Perry Hotel , and upscale kitchen and bar, Pour . Outdoor activities are also key in the area, as it's home to the world-class Bay Harbor Golf Club as well as great hiking along the North Country Trail and in the Bear River Valley Recreation Area . Don't forget to hunt for the famous Petoskey stones at nearby Petoskey State Park . Wine enthusiasts should visit some of the designated wineries along the region's wine trail, such as Walloon Lake Winery (a well-known lake where Hemingway's summer cottage was located) and Pond Hill Farm , part of the Tunnel of Trees drive .

Hill City, South Dakota

Mike Kline / Getty Images

Hill City 's population totals just under 900, but this small South Dakota town packs a big punch. A few of its can't-miss sites include Prairie Berry Winery and Miner Brewing Co. for locally crafted and sourced beverages, the 1880 Train for a two-hour, narrated round-trip journey between Hill City and Keystone, and the family-friendly Palmer Gulch Campground, which holds a number of rodeos over the summer. Hill City is also within driving distance of major South Dakota draws like Custer State Park , Mount Rushmore National Memorial , and Crazy Horse Memorial . The town even makes a lovely jumping off point for checking out two of the state's best national parks, Wind Cave (about 30 miles away) and Badlands (about 90 miles away).

Kohler, Wisconsin

Nickdelrosario / Getty Images

Located in the heart of the Midwest in Wisconsin, the village of Kohler was one of the nation's first planned communities — the green spaces here were actually designed by the same landscape architect who created Central Park. However, the crown jewel of Kohler is undoubtedly The American Club , an elegant hotel with Wisconsin's only AAA Five-Diamond rating. Spend some time relaxing at the Waters Spa or hitting the links at the Whistling Straits or Blackwolf Run golf courses. Kohler is conveniently located about 55 miles from Milwaukee and 145 miles from Chicago, so it's accessible even to travelers outside the region.

Pella, Iowa

jerryhopman / Getty Images

Pella, nicknamed "America's Dutch Treasure" for its connection to the Netherlands, hosts a legendary tulip festival each spring and a working windmill all year long. Other Dutch-inspired spots include Vander Ploeg Bakery , Ulrich's Meat Market , Dutch Fix , and Jaarsma Bakery . Drive approximately 11 miles to nearby Leighton for small-batch Gouda cheese from Frisian Farms Cheese House , which even has Gouda cheese curds. Plus, Lake Red Rock , the largest in the state at over 15,000 acres, is just outside of town and offers prime recreational adventure. Pella is located about 177 miles from Omaha and 45 miles from Des Moines, so it's a great day trip option or weekend escape.

Medora, North Dakota

Tiny Medora serves as the gateway to Theodore Roosevelt National Park , where the majestic Badlands settle into the Great Plains. To explore by car, take the South Unit's 48-mile scenic drive , which begins and ends in town. Hiking, horseback riding, camping, and snowshoeing are just some of the activities available in the park, alongside spotting bison and prairie dogs. Medora is also home to a cute children's park , a thrilling zip line , the interactive Pitchfork Steak Fondue dining experience, and Medora Uncork'd , a cool wine bar.

Fish Creek, Wisconsin

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It's hard to pick just one small town in Door County, Wisconsin (a.k.a. " The Cape Cod of the Midwest "), but Fish Creek is a charming option. Highlights include wine tasting at Lautenbach's Orchard Country winery and market, dinner and a nightcap at the Whistling Swan , and shopping at Sister Golden . For those who want to experience a traditional fish boil or the famous cherry-stuffed French toast — both Door County delicacies — White Gull Inn is a must. As for outdoor recreation, look no further than nearby Peninsula State Park , home to trails, a lighthouse, and swimming and kayaking galore. Rest your head at Thorp House Inn & Cottages , a quaint choice for accommodations.

Ashland, Nebraska

Robert Cross / Chicago Tribune / Tribune News Service / Getty Images

Halfway between Lincoln and Omaha, Nebraska's biggest cities, lies the small town of Ashland. Its charming and walkable downtown commercial district makes for a bustling destination, with stops like Salt Creek Mercantile , Postscript , Glacial Till Cider House & Tasting Room , and numerous galleries filled with local art. Aviation fans and history buffs can also check out the nearby Strategic Air Command & Aerospace Museum , which offers a flight simulator experience. Plus, Iron Horse Golf Club is a beautiful course just outside of town, while Eugene T. Mahoney State Park welcomes families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Lanesboro, Minnesota

StevenGaertner / Getty Images

This charming small town in southeastern Minnesota rests on the bluffs of the winding Root River , a popular tubing destination. Bikers should check out one of the state's premier pathways, the Root River State Trail . In town, pop into Parkway Market & Coffeehouse , Another Time Ice Cream Parlor , Sylvan Brewing , and Pedal Pushers Cafe . Plus, catch a play at the renowned community theater, the Commonweal . Lanesboro is sometimes called the " Bed and Breakfast Capital of Minnesota ,'' so if you're seeking an overnight stay, you may want to aim for that type of lodging. And at just 40 miles from Rochester, 50 miles from La Crosse, and 125 miles from Minneapolis, "the heart of Bluff Country" is an easy small town getaway.

Winona Lake, Indiana

Jeffrey Greenberg / Getty Images

Winona Lake is a northern Indiana gem just a two-and-a-half-hour drive from both Indianapolis and Chicago. The Village at Winona , located along the lake, is on the National Register of Historic Places and full of old cottages that have been turned into cute shops. Visitors should dine at Cerulean or the Boathouse Restaurant and check out stops like The Olive Branch , LetterWood Paper Co. , and The Mucky Duck . Get out on the water with a paddle board or kayak rental from The Lake House , or swim from the beach at Lake Park , which also has a splash pad for kiddos.

Weston, Missouri

Visions of America / Universal Images Group / Getty Images

While this small town in Missouri is only about 33 miles from Kansas City, it feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of the metro. Start your day by fueling up at Weston Coffee Roastery before hiking in Lewis and Clark's footsteps at Weston Bend State Park . Experience a farm tour and cheese tasting at Green Dirt Farm , enjoy local beverages from Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery and Weston Brewing Company, and rest your head at the historic St. George Hotel . Weston's cute downtown and prime location make it arguably the best small town in the "Show Me State," which is celebrated its bicentennial in 2021.

Kate Abroad

Top 15 Best Midwest Vacations to Book in 2024

Are you looking for some of the best Midwest vacations to start planning a trip this year? Luckily, there are so many great places to travel in this region of the United States!

The Midwest is often overlooked when it comes to vacation destinations, but it is home to some fantastic destinations that shouldn’t be missed! From the Great Lakes to the rolling prairies, the Midwest offers a wide variety of experiences for travelers seeking a memorable vacation.

In this post, I’ll guide you through some of the best vacations in the Midwest that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Best Midwest Vacations

1. north shore – minnesota.

One of the most beautiful parts of the Upper Midwest is the North Shore of Minnesota. Lining the shoreline of Lake Superior, the North Shore stretches from Duluth to Grand Portage.

Starting in Duluth, you’ll begin driving along Highway 61, where you’ll have views of the magical Great Lake for nearly the entire drive. As you drive, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at 8 different state parks that line the shore.

The first will be Gooseberry Falls State Park, where you’ll find some of the most popular waterfalls in the state. You’ll then come across Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, which is home to a beautiful lighthouse, towering above Lake Superior. Both of these also have fantastic Minnesota campgrounds right along the lakeshore to stay at!

A bit further down the shore, you’ll come across the small towns of Silver Bay, Lutsen, and Grand Marais. Between these towns are Tettegouche State Park,  Cascade River State Park, and a few more.

Stopping in any of these small towns will provide you with the opportunity to check out great places to eat, great shops to stop in, and plenty of hiking trails.

Relax in some of the cozy resorts and cabins that line the shore and wake up to the sounds of waves crashing into the shoreline. You can then start your day early and catch the sunrise over Lake Superior.

Where to Stay:

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: East Bay Suites, Grand Marais
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Lutsen Resort, Lutsen

2. Grand Rapids – Michigan

If you’re a lover of big cities, then a visit to Grand Rapids, Michigan will be the perfect getaway in the Midwest for you.

Grand Rapids is a booming city, located in Central Michigan, just a short distance from the shores of Lake Michigan.

One of the best things to do in Grand Rapids is to visit the endless breweries that are scattered around the city. In fact, there are over 70 to explore in the Greater Grand Rapids area! Taking a brewery tour is the best way to do this, as the tour guides will lead you to the most loved places!

Other activities include wandering through the many museums that you’ll find here or admiring the plant life at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Overall, this major city will make sure that your vacation is one for the books, especially if you’re a beer lover!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Baymont by Wyndham Grand Rapids SW
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Amway Grand Plaza

3. North Dakota’s Badlands – North Dakota

North Dakota is often times overlooked and seen as just a vast land of prairies and grasslands. But over on the far western half of the state, you’ll find the stunning Badlands.

The rugged terrain, jagged rock formations, and stunning vistas create a surreal and otherworldly landscape that will leave you breathless. 

Specifically, visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where you can set out on various hiking trails to really experience what the Badlands have to offer.

Even just taking a scenic drive along the park roads is a great way to spend time, as it provides you with endless views of the surrounding landscape. And as you travel along the roads, be sure to look out for the roaming bison, small prairie dogs, and other wildlife that calls this park home.

And when the sun sets, the starry skies over the Badlands offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Midwest.

If you’re looking for a great way to spend some time outdoors and explore the Midwest, then this is a perfect way to do it!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Badlands Motel
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Rough Riders Hotel

4. Minneapolis – Minnesota

If you’d rather explore a big city than spend time outdoors then Minneapolis, Minnesota is the perfect place for you.

This large city, when combined with St Paul and the other surrounding towns, makes up the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. This area is home to a huge park system, plenty of shopping, and tons of great places to eat.

Whether you’re looking to just roam the streets of Downtown and wander into shops, or you have something in mind that you’re looking to pick up at a shop, Minneapolis has got you covered.

Make a stop at the Mall of America, which is the largest mall in the country and has over 500 stores. Or head into Downtown Minneapolis and check out the many local shops that line the streets. 

Downtown, you’ll also find endless restaurants, dozens of local coffee shops , and lots of opportunities for entertainment. The First Avenue music venue is downtown, as well as several other venues and theatres. There are also venues for sports games where you’ll find the professional sports teams of Minnesota playing.

Overall, the gorgeous city of Minneapolis has a lot to offer for visitors planning a vacation in Minnesota.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites Bloomington
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hewing Hotel

5. South Dakota’s Black Hills – South Dakota

Taking a Midwest road trip through the Badlands of South Dakota is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and fascinating geology.

First, be sure to stop at Badlands National Park, where you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. Then also add on a visit to Custer State Park, where you’ll see endless wildlife and have great hiking options.

Next, learn some history at Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. And on your way out of the state, stop in small towns like Keystone, Sturgis, and Rapid City. These small Western towns offer shopping and nice places to eat.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites Rapid City
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Grand Getaway Hotel of Rapid City

6. Chicago – Illinois

As the largest city in the region, Chicago is often considered one of the best Midwest vacations for many people. Whether it be families, couples, or solo travel, you can always find people booking trips to Chicago.

Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is a bustling metropolis located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s famous for its towering skyscrapers, iconic Bean sculpture, instagrammable locations , and delicious foods.

While you’re in the city, plan a trip to Willis Tower to see Chicago from underneath a glass platform, try out their cheesy deep-dish pizza, and wander through the many museums and venues to learn the history of the city.

And consider taking a day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park or book a tour of Lake Michigan to admire the views from the water.

You can save a ton of money on Chicago activities and attractions with a Go City pass – click here to check out the passes available .

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: The Willows Hotel
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

7. Upper Peninsula – Michigan

Travelling to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The UP, as it’s commonly referred to, is home to stunning natural landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming small towns.

Explore the shoreline of Lake Superior on the northern part of the peninsula, and check out the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

And on the southern shore of the UP, you’ll be along Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, where you’ll find the charming Mackinac Island. Explore the island in horse-drawn carriages, indulge in fudge, and wander into local shops on the island.

Whether you’re a nature lover or history buff, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the perfect Midwest vacation for you.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Pontiac Lodge, Mackinac Island
• Mid-Range Accommodation: The Mackinac House, Mackinac Island

8. Door County – Wisconsin

Another small, charming town that is a must-see is Door County, located on a peninsula of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Midwest!

Wander along the streets of Door County and admire the stunning lighthouses that dot the shoreline. There are dozens of small shops that are perfect for finding souvenirs to bring home and a variety of hidden gem restaurants to grab a bite to eat at.

Head into Peninsula State Park and Cave Point County Park to see the gorgeous views that surround the area. From dramatic cliffs to dense forests, the area around Door County is beautiful.

Door County is also known for its cherry orchards, and visitors can indulge in delicious cherry pies and other treats. Be sure to pick some of your own to bring home!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Waterwood Shores Waterfront Resort
• Mid-Range Accommodation: White Gull Inn

9. Traverse City – Michigan

Known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, Traverse City is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind.

One of the best things to do in Traverse City is to visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can hike through sand dunes and take in stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Challenge yourself to climb to the highest dune. And once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll be glad you put in the effort to see those views!

Traverse City is also a popular destination for wine tasting and visiting breweries. The city shares a latitude with Bourdeaux in France and Piedmont in Italy, which are both well-known for their wine production. So don’t miss out on tasting the local wines!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Bayshore Resort
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

10. Isle Royale National Park – Michigan

Visiting national parks is on many people’s bucket lists. And Michigan is home to its very own, Isle Royale National Park.

This remote and infrequently visited park is only accessible by seaplane or ferry and gives you the opportunity to explore one of the least visited national parks in the United States.

Once you’ve arrived on the island, you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of nature around you. This is the perfect way to get out into nature and really disconnect from everyday life.

There isn’t anyone living on the island, except the resident moose and wolves that call Isle Royale National Park home. 

There are nearly 1,400 moose and 30 wolves on the island, so it will be shocking if you don’t see a moose during your visit! But the wolves are a bit harder to spot. While you’re out hiking the trails and exploring the park, be sure to look out for signs that the wolves are there!

The only lodging on the island is located on the eastern side of the park at the Rock Harbor Lodge. Otherwise, you’ll need to pack your backpacking gear and spend time out in the woods camping.

This is one of the most unique Midwest vacations to take, and it’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and really want to disconnect from life.

• Only Available Option: Rock Harbor Lodge

11. Lake of the Ozarks – Missouri

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend some time on the lake, then head to Lake of the Ozarks in Central Missouri. This giant reservoir is one of the premier lake resort destinations in the Midwest and offers some of the best boating, fishing, and recreational activities for people of all ages.

This Midwest vacation spot offers a relaxing time outdoors and allows you the opportunity to explore some of the best places in Missouri. Just getting out on a boat and relaxing in the sun is one of the best ways to spend your vacation.

But Lake of the Ozarks isn’t just a spot for spending time on the water, because you’ll also find a giant water park, caves to explore, and lively nightlife.

While most people had to St. Louis or Springfield when they’re visiting Missouri, you can beat some of the crowds by paying a visit to Lake of the Ozarks.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Days Inn by Wyndham Osage Beach
• Mid-Range Accommodation: The Lodge of Four Seasons, Lake Ozark

12. Wisconsin Dells – Wisconsin

If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation spot in the Midwest, Wisconsin Dells in Wisconsin is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells boasts a wide range of thrilling water parks and amusement parks, making it the perfect place to cool off and have fun during the hot summer months.

But even during the winter, you can escape to Wisconsin Dells to spend some time splashing around, because there are also several great indoor waterparks to enjoy!

In addition to the water parks, Wisconsin Dells also offers scenic boat tours along the Wisconsin River, mini-golf courses, go-karting tracks, and other exciting outdoor activities. One of the most beautiful areas is called Witches Gulch, which is found in a towering, moss-covered gorge that you must take a boat to!

Wisconsin Dells is the perfect family vacation in the Midwest to take!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Aloha Beach Resort & Suites
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Kalahari Resort and Convention Center

13. Branson – Missouri

If you’re a live entertainment fan, then Branson is going to be like Heaven for you! Known as the ‘Live Entertainment Capital of the World,’ Branson is home to over 100 amazing shows and nearly 45 theatres where you can watch the productions.

From plays to comedy to live music, there’s something for everyone, no matter your style or age.

And on top of the entertainment, you can explore Silver Dollar City, which is a family-friendly amusement park, take in the views at Table Rock Lake, or wander through the streets at the Branson Boardwalk.

Overall, Branson is a fun and must-visit destination for the entire family!

14. St. Croix River Valley – Minnesota

Want to take in some beautiful views for your visit to the Midwest, or more specifically, Minnesota? Then head to the St. Croix River Valley National Scenic Byway.

The St. Croix River stretches along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and is lined with towering river bluffs that drop into the water.

Along the shoreline of the river, you’ll find plenty of small towns that offer great views, places to eat, and shops to check out.

Plus, you’ll find beautiful state parks for hiking and wandering around. In Taylors Falls, you’ll find Interstate State Park, where you can explore historical potholes, and in Stillwater, you can put in your kayak to float down the St. Croix River.

For both outdoorsy people and those who prefer cities, this area of the Midwest is a phenomenal place to pay a visit to.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express & Suites St. Croix Valley
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Old Jail Bed & Breakfast, Taylors Falls

15. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – Wisconsin

If you’re looking to take your Midwest vacation to the lake, then head to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield, Wisconsin is the place to go.

This stunning destination offers endless views of Lake Superior, dozens of hiking trails to wander around on, and opportunities for exploring the water.

Embark on the Lakeshore Trail from Meyers Beach, where you’ll get to explore a few miles of the shoreline where there are unique sea caves below the shore. These caves are made of red sandstone that contrasts with the blue water of Lake Superior.

Visitors can take a relaxing sea kayak tour along the 21 island-studded shorelines to better explore these caves, and actually kayak through some of them. 

And during the winter months when the conditions are just right, you can walk along the rarely frozen Lake Superior to see the caves in a whole new light.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Old Rittenhouse Inn

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Midwest

Despite the name, the Midwest is more middle and North than West, covering the section of the USA between North Dakota and Ohio (inclusive) as far north as the Canadian border and South as Kansas and Missouri.

The Midwest is known to get very cold in winter so if you want to make the most of the amazing Midwestern outdoors but avoid the crowds, aim for just before/after the peak summer season in the months of May-June and September.

You can tell from this guide there are so many possible vacation destinations in the Midwest and you would need months to see them all but for a first-time visitor, 3-4 weeks is enough time to get a taste.

Wrap-Up: Best Midwest Vacations

Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors, wandering around the Downtown district of a city or love small towns, the Midwest has something for everyone.

You’ll find beautiful views, great food, and plenty of attractions for the entire family to enjoy! So, the next time that you’re planning a trip, consider checking out these best Midwest vacations.

This article was written by Kassidy Olsen, a Midwesterner and local travel expert.

More USA Travel Guides

For more USA travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary
• Northeastern United States Itinerary

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

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10 great places to live in the Midwest

Each year, Livability publishes a research-based Top 100 Best Places to Live in America. The list is based on more than 50 data points and examines more than 2,000 cities to rank the best places to live in the U.S. Highlighted here are the top places to live in the Midwest. Each of these cities has something special to offer — read on to find out what.

The Midwest is affectionately — and accurately — called America’s Heartland. It’s known for its assortment of small towns with deep roots and down-to-earth attitudes and an assortment of industrial and agricultural pursuits intermingling. But don’t let this nostalgic description fool you. You can find everything you want here in the heart of the country. From water sports on the Great Lakes to the architecturally awe-inspiring streets of Chicago, everyone can find something to love in the Midwest.

Also see : The best affordable little cities to live in America

1. Carmel, Ind.

Great schools and access to jobs and healthcare make Carmel, Ind., one of the best places to live in the Midwest. Located just north of Indianapolis, Carmel offers a slightly slower lifestyle for daily life with all the amenities of a midsize city nearby.

A thriving arts scene means Carmel residents don’t have to go far for cultural enrichment. The Center for the Performing Arts is a three-venue, world-class performing-arts center home to the Palladium Concert Hall and two additional theaters, the Tarkington and Studio Theater, where residents can catch plays, concerts and other performances. It is also home to the  Great American Songbook Foundation , an affiliate of the Grammy Museum.

With one of the highest safety scores, Carmel is a comfortable and relaxed place to raise a family. Well-regulated traffic and bike and walking paths make it a safe place to be out and about, and, despite its relatively small size, Carmel has more than 700 acres of parks and greenways to explore and enjoy. Carmel is also home to the legendary Monon Bike Trail. This railroad-turned-trail spans central Indiana for nearly 30 miles and is an off-the-beaten-path way to explore the region. 

This Midwest municipality shines in the warmer months but does not go into hibernation, with festivals, a winter farmers market, and a conscious effort made citywide to keep residents active and engaged year-round.

2. Overland Park, Kan.

While it’s long been considered a gateway to Kansas City, there’s much worth sticking around for in Overland Park, Kan., which has best-in-class youth sports venues, delicious barbecue, a growing brewery scene, a love for the arts and some beautiful gardens. 

A combination of safe neighborhoods, nationally ranked schools, and strong healthcare and wellness options make Overland Park one of the best places to live in the Midwest. The economy is also robust in Overland Park, with many job options across several sectors. For example, T-Mobile which recently acquired Sprint, is one of the biggest employers in Overland Park. 

Residents have all kinds of fun things to do in their downtime, from enjoying dinner and a show at the New Theatre & Restaurant to shopping for fruits, veggies, fresh-baked bread and jams at the Overland Park Farmers Market and playing simulated golf games at TopGolf. Feeling crafty? Shop for plants and paint a pot for it to live in at  Creative Culture , a DIY craft studio and over-the-top milkshake bar where you can turn your Pinterest board into something tangible.

Overland Park also has tons of parks. In fact, you could go to a new park every weekend and still not cover them all. But one of the favorites is Roe Park, which has a large playground with a splash pad and lighted tennis courts. Consider buying an annual membership to the Overland Park Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, where you’ll want to be a regular. You can slip away into a 300-acre oasis of gardens, ponds, trails, wide-open prairie, and sculpture and play areas. The arboretum hosts all kinds of cool events, like bird walks, wildflower walks, plant sales, seedling giveaways, wine tastings and a “Botanical Brewfest.”

One more thing: With the Kansas City Chiefs being the reigning Super Bowl champs, there’s a palpable team spirit in these parts. New residents will definitely want to pick up some red-and-gold gear at Scheels or Made in KC.

See: Kansas City Chiefs ticket sales and searches have tripled since Taylor Swift became a fan, StubHub says

3. Fishers, Ind.

You’ll be hard-pressed not to be charmed by Fishers, Ind., a thriving suburb of Indy, and one of the best places to live in the Midwest. With a rapidly growing population (increasing roughly 2% every year), Fishers is a city to watch over the next few years and decades. 

Be sure to read: The fastest-growing American cities are also some of the places with the worst climate-change effects

“I think Fishers is so special because it has such a variety of amenities: a family looking for things to do, a solo adventure, if you are looking for a girls’ night, a guys’ getaway — there is a really diverse amount of attractions and dining,” says Gabriella Blauert, communications manager for Visit Hamilton County.  

In Fishers, you can experience big-city entertainment amenities — like the  Nickel Plate District , which has a ton of restaurants, breweries and live entertainment — but live in an area with an astoundingly low crime rate. According to the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer, there were only 77 instances of violent crime in all of 2021, and the crime rate is  5.2 times lower  than the national average. 

In addition to infrequent crime, Fishers has a commitment to developing a healthy community with programs like  WeCare , which provides free fall-prevention home audits for seniors.

Even celebrities are invested in Fishers community health: The Peyton Manning Children’s Outpatient Center at St. Vincent Fishers offers specialty pediatric care. 

If you’re looking to grow your career and make your next steps, the business community in Fishers can’t be topped, thanks to its entrepreneurial ecosystem. Launch Fishers, for instance, is a 52,000-square-foot co-working space for entrepreneurs and creators with more than 600 members, making it the largest in the Midwest. And Hub & Spoke is a 94,000-square-foot, master-planned, mixed-use development and partnership with the city that includes a design center with retail showrooms, plus a maker space and co-working facilities. 

Also see: Good schools, great scenery and more: 10 of the best places to live in the Southeast U.S.

4. Naperville, Ill.

Naperville, Ill., is often considered one of the best places to live in the Midwest, and it’s not hard to see why. This charming suburb of Chicago has all the hallmarks of a great community: top-notch schools (seriously, they are among the best in Illinois), an excellent safety record (it was recently named the  safest city in America ), and quite literally  one of the best libraries  in the entire country. Locals also can boast a highly rated hospital, so you won’t typically need to head into the big city to receive an excellent standard of care. 

But what makes Naperville stand out from the rest of the small towns and suburbs around the country is its commitment to community and voluntarism. One of the most beloved areas of Naperville — the Riverwalk, a two-mile stretch of gorgeous trails and event spaces alongside the DuPage River — was actually developed by volunteers. Various community get-togethers and festivals, like farmers markets and concerts, keep residents connected. In addition, the city of just under 150,000 provides a perfect mix of big-city attractions and small-town magic, and the cost of living is lower than in much of the nearby Windy City.  

Getting around is easy. Naperville residents have access to both a bus service and commuter trains. In addition, O’Hare International, Midway International, DuPage and Aurora Municipal airports are all reasonably close by if your travels take you further from home. 

5. Troy, Mich.

Troy, Mich., is a vibrant suburb of Detroit, located approximately 24 miles to the northwest. The dozens of major companies that are based there (such as J.D. Power & Associates and ThyssenKrupp ) help boost the local economy and keep the unemployment and tax rates down. Troy is also known for its excellent city services, good quality of life, affordability and a plethora of outdoor resources — all of which justify Troy’s ranking among the best places to live in the Midwest.

Troy was named after its namesake in New York state and, indirectly, after the ancient city of Troy. It’s a great place to start a family, thanks to the highly rated schools, including a standout fine-arts program, along with a college and branches of several universities. Not to mention that Troy was voted the safest city in Michigan and the 19th safest city in the whole country. 

Check out: Five college towns worth staying put in after graduation

The city is a dreamland for the outdoorsy type, with lakes, streams, trees, two golf courses, a nature center, a skate park, disc golf, tennis and basketball courts, soccer and baseball fields, play and picnic areas, and a thousand acres of parks. But those who feel more at home indoors won’t feel left out, either. The retail heaven that is Troy includes a 1.4 million–square–foot shopping and dining empire known as the Somerset Collection.

6. Olathe, Kan.

Steeped in rich Western history, Olathe, Kan., has always been a city with a pioneering spirit. A major stop on the Santa Fe Trail in the 19th century, Olathe made its mark as a place to create (cowboy boots were quite literally invented  here). Today, it’s one of the best places to live in the Midwest, where entrepreneurs flock thanks to programs like GrowOlathe — an initiative that helps young businesses get technical assistance to help them flourish. As one of the hottest spots in the Midwest, the city promotes “economic gardening,” giving local businesses the technical assistance needed to grow.

Beyond business, Olathe has bragging rights to a highly educated workforce (about  50.2% of Olathe citizens  have a college degree), a stellar public-school system and a hospital that continually gets accolades. In fact, Olathe Medical Center was named one of the  top 100 hospitals in 2021 .

But Olathe isn’t all work and no play. The city is named for the Shawnee word for beautiful, and its gorgeous rolling hills and other scenery help Olathe live up to its moniker. In addition to its many amenities and attractions to keep residents entertained, Olathe has a low crime rate. 

Related: 6 charming small towns close to big-city action

Olathe is also the fourth-largest city in Kansas, and since 2000 its population has nearly doubled. Still, residents here have fostered a tight-knit community and created an open and welcoming place to live. 

7. Bloomington, Minn.

You’ll find everything you need in Bloomington, Minn. There’s, of course, the Mall of America, in whose 5.6 million square feet so you can shop till you drop ( plus learn how crayons are made , navigate a maze of mirrors and ride roller coasters). But, as one of the best places to live in the Midwest, Bloomington also has A+ schools, fantastic healthcare, unrivaled parks and some unexpected gems, like a peaceful  Japanese garden  and a ski hill with a snowmaker that makes fresh powder so you can hit the slopes in the winter. 

And, because Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes, there are plenty of places to enjoy waters sports and maritime activities. Visit Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun for fishing or swimming. Prefer to stay on dry land? Bloomington has many bike paths, public parks and several golf courses. 

Bloomington is also a close-knit community where residents practice what they preach. This is a place that values diversity and inclusion. A few years ago, the city hired a full-time racial equality coordinator. 

Check out: 5 unforgettable towns for a winter getaway

There are plenty of jobs in Bloomington, too, as the region is a hub for corporate headquarters. The Twin Cities area as a whole is home to some 15 Fortune 500 companies including Target Best Buy Land O’ Lakes and General Mills And an international airport means it’s easy for business travelers to make weekly commutes and others to use up their PTO.

8. Rochester Hills, Mich.

Located 30 miles north of Detroit, Rochester Hills is considered a big-city suburb but with a much calmer, safer and more outdoor-centric vibe. With a population of around 76,000, Rochester Hills is the 14th largest city in Michigan. A low crime rate and the strength of the Avondale and Rochester school districts make it a family-friendly town, and the majority of residents own their own homes. Medical care is also top-notch, with many hospitals located near Rochester Hills. Add to that the endless variety of activities, and it’s no wonder that Rochester Hills is one of the best places to live in the Midwest.

There is plenty to do there, no matter what your idea of fun might be. Watch a concert, show or sporting event at the Meadowbrook Amphitheatre. Play golf on one of several courses or immerse yourself in nature at one of the many parks. Take in some history at the Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm or at the old-timey water-powered Yates Cider Mill. Or find something you can’t live without at the Village of Rochester Hills, a 375,000-square-foot outdoor shopping district with a downtown-like feel.

Read: We want culture, dining and wilderness in areas with homes for $300,000 — so where should we retire?

9. Evanston, Ill.

Evanston, Ill., is the perfect suburb for people who think they don’t like suburbs. With classic architecture, arts venues, a fantastic food scene and loads of outdoor activities, it offers the best of city life in a relaxed suburban community. With Northwestern University — one of the top universities in the U.S. — at its core, Evanston draws an intellectual crowd. And, yet, with so many amenities, this city of almost 77,000 offers something for everyone. It’s no wonder Evanston is one of the top places to live in the Midwest.

Directly adjacent to the Rogers Park neighborhood in the Windy City, and linked to Chicago by both city rapid transit and regional commuter rail, Evanstonians have an easy commute to one of the U.S.’s most bustling big cities. The town’s location on the shores of Lake Michigan means that, when warm weather hits, lake breezes and access to five gorgeous beaches are there to moderate matters. While the university’s mix of traditional and Modernist architecture and its lakefront campus are stunning, so are the 76 municipal parks that offer accessible outdoor activities.

Although riding the L or Metra into Chicago for dinner is convenient, foodies don’t need to leave Evanston to find a great meal. In fact, in 2019, Thrillist named Evanston one of  “The Country’s Best Suburbs for People Who Love Food.”  Food options range from casual joints like the Evanston Chicken Shack to the chic the Barn Steakhouse. Interestingly, Evanston was a dry town until 1972. Now, it’s home to numerous hip bars, including the popular Temperance Beer Co., whose name is a cheeky nod to the town’s previous no-alcohol status. 

Arts and culture are easily accessible, as you’d expect in a college town in the Chicago area. There are fantastic music venues all over Evanston, like Space, an intimate music hall featuring various genres. 

Also see: I live in the South and don’t want to retire here. I’m seeking four seasons, diversity and outdoor living. Where should I retire?

10. Lee’s Summit, Mo.

The charming downtown graced by revitalized historic buildings, murals and sculptures, and unique stores, cafés and restaurants is just one of the many reasons Lee’s Summit, Mo., is one of the best places to live in the Midwest. The city has a friendly, small-town feel with traditional suburban neighborhoods for families and an active downtown with denser housing options near a bustling Main Street. Together, these give Lee’s Summit an urban energy and suburban sensibility that is hard to beat. 

See: Six towns worth visiting for their historic downtowns

Lee’s Summit is attractive for young families and professionals looking to start a family thanks to its high marks in education. The Lee’s Summit R-7 School District is one of Missouri’s largest and most highly regarded school districts. In addition, the schools and local hospitals are some of the largest employers in the area, and locals have easy access to top-notch care. 

With Kansas City nearby, residents have reasonable commute times and access to bigger-city amenities. But there is plenty to do in town. Lee’s Summit has abundant recreational opportunities, including access to several lakes, parks and wildlife areas. In recent years, the community’s downtown has been revitalized and helped foster a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere. Ranging from  Fourth Friday Art Walks  to fishing, ATV riding and boating, Lee’s Summit might be the place for you, no matter your interests.  

See all 25 cities and read the original article on Livability.

• The 100 best places to live in the U.S. in 2023

Where are the cicadas? Use this interactive map to find Brood XIX, Brood XIII in 2024

In a few weeks, over a dozen states will be abuzz as trillions of periodical cicadas will emerge from their yearslong underground stay.

Broods XIX and XIII will emerge in a combined 17 states, mostly in the Midwest and Southeast, in a rare, double brood event . These two broods last emerged together 221 years ago, and after this year are not predicted to do so again until 2245.

Once conditions are right, the two broods will emerge in massive numbers to feed, make noise, mate and die. Here's what to know about where to find the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII.

2024 double cicada broods: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX will emerge

The two cicada broods will emerge in a combined 17 states across the Southeast and Midwest, with an overlap in parts of Illinois and Iowa. They will emerge once soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, expected to begin in mid-May and lasting through late June.

The two broods last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

What is a periodical cicada?

Both the 13-year Brood XIX and the 17-year Brood XIII are periodical cicadas, which emerge every 13 or 17 years across North America. They differ from annual cicadas, which emerge every year.

You may remember the last periodical brood to emerge in huge numbers: the 17-year Brood X that was found in 2021 throughout the Midwest and Eastern Seaboard.

Annual cicadas, which are dark green to black with green wing veins, are  typically larger than periodical cicadas , which are recognizable for their red eyes, red legs and red wing veins, according to North Carolina State University Extension.

Periodical cicadas emerge earlier, usually in mid-to-late May as opposed to annual cicadas in July and August. According to North Carolina State University Extension, annual cicadas begin mating, " singing conspicuously " and lying eggs about two weeks after they emerge. Their first nymphs will fall to the ground and begin feeding on roots under the soil, and fully-developed nymphs will emerge two years later and molt into adults.

Above ground, periodical cicadas have a similar life cycle, appear in much larger numbers and are much louder. At the end of their season, the next generation of nymphs move underground and remain for either 13 or 17 years.