tourist places in midwest

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

By: Author Tanner Wilkes

Posted on Published: January 8, 2021  - Last updated: August 21, 2023

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.

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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.

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.

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.

Protect Your Trip »

The 13 best midwest vacations for families.

From big-city adventures to small-town escapes, these locales highlight some of Middle America's top destinations.

(Getty Images) |

Explore cities, lakes, theme parks and more in America's heartland.

Whether you're looking for an extended vacation or a Midwest weekend getaway , America's heartland offers something for everyone in the family. With its vast stretches of picturesque landscapes – from the Great Plains of North Dakota to the rivers, shoreline and islands of Michigan and Ohio – the Midwest boasts an American charm all its own. This area of the country is filled with quaint towns, national parks , historic sites and vibrant cities offering cultural attractions and culinary options for the whole family.

If you're ready to hit the road on a cross-country adventure or want to stay closer to home for a family weekend away, this list will help you plan your next vacation to explore the natural beauty of the countryside or action-packed urban landscapes at one of these top Midwest getaways.

Indianapolis

Indianapolis beckons sports lovers with its annual IndyCar and NASCAR racing events and professional basketball, football and soccer teams. If you're a race car fan and you're planning to visit at the end of May, you won't want to miss what's known as the "Greatest Spectacle in Racing" – the world-renowned Indianapolis 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway . But if you're not up for high-speed thrills, there are plenty of other attractions for the less adventurous traveler in Indianapolis . Downtown's White River State Park is home to the 64-acre Indianapolis Zoo ; the Indiana State Museum , which features an IMAX Theater; and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Additionally, basketball fans won't want to miss Hinkle Fieldhouse at Butler University . The arena, built in 1928, is both the actual site and filming location of the 1954 events featured in the classic movie "Hoosiers." Kids can even get in on the athletic fun at The Children's Museum of Indianapolis ' Riley Children's Health Sports Legends Experience.

The JW Marriott Indianapolis is an excellent choice for accommodations during your stay in the city, set close to White River State Park. If you prefer to stay outside of downtown, Ironworks Hotel Indy is located about 10 miles north of Indianapolis in the Keystone Crossing neighborhood. The eclectic property, designed to resemble a factory from the Industrial Revolution era, features eight on-site food and beverage venues, and it's pet-friendly.

[See more of Indianapolis:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

South Dakota road trip

Pack up the family for the ultimate summer road trip through some of the most scenic landscapes and iconic destinations in South Dakota . Located in the Black Hills, Custer State Park offers 71,000 acres of outdoor adventure, wildlife viewing, fishing, camping and more. Be sure to visit the new Custer State Park Bison Center to watch for the herd of nearly 1,400 free-roaming bison while driving through the park. Then you can head around 20 miles north to visit Mount Rushmore, a symbol of our American heritage carved in stone and surrounded by the majestic beauty of the Black Hills.

For an extended vacation, travel about 50 miles north of Mount Rushmore to walk in the footsteps of Wild West legends like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane in the former gold town of Deadwood. While in town, vacationers may enjoy hanging out at a few saloons, including the legendary Saloon #10 where Hickok finally met his fate. If you dare, stay in one of the town's haunted hotels , such as the Historic Bullock Hotel. You can even take a ride on the Deadwood Stagecoach. For an otherworldly end to your epic South Dakota adventure, don't miss the rugged beauty and mesmerizing geologic formations at Badlands National Park. The park is approximately 70 miles east of Custer State Park via a scenic route.

(Courtesy of Palace Entertainment) |

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

If you're looking for a year-round vacation option to keep your kids active and entertained, check out the abundant things to do in Wisconsin Dells . Known for offering some of the best water parks in the U.S. , this Midwestern city is where you'll find indoor and outdoor aquatic attractions, especially within top Wisconsin Dells resorts like Great Wolf Lodge and Kalahari Resorts. These properties boast not only lots of fun activities but also family-friendly accommodations like themed suites and rooms with bunk beds.

Winter is a great time to visit because there is so much to do indoors in addition to winter sports at Cascade Mountain, where kids ski free with an adult. But if you're vacationing in the summer, take advantage of outdoor activities like zip lining, go-kart racing, water sports, fishing, hiking, scenic boat tours, mini-golf and more. For a romantic date night sans kids, make reservations at The Del-Bar, a supper club and steakhouse dating back to 1943, or the highly rated Kaminski's Chop House.

St. Louis, Missouri

Another great Midwestern city to check out during the warmer months is St. Louis . You'll want to visit the famed Gateway Arch , which you can ride to the top of for sweeping city panoramas. At the City Museum , kids and adults alike can climb through, up and along caves, ladders, slides and more made from repurposed objects from around the city. For baseball fans, there's Busch Stadium , where the St. Louis Cardinals play. Thrill-seekers will want to spend a day at Six Flags St. Louis . There's no end to the family fun at this amusement park, with adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, waterslides and other theme park attractions, plus dining options and live entertainment.

For lodging during your stay, The Westin St. Louis is located near Busch Stadium if you plan to attend several games while in town. Another option is the Moonrise Hotel , a boutique luxury property located in the Delmar Loop area, which is known for its shopping, restaurants and nightlife. In the evening, adults can enjoy a nightcap with views of the skyline from the hotel's rooftop terrace bar.

[See more of St. Louis:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Traverse City, Michigan

Travelers with kids keen on exploring the great outdoors in the summer – or the snowy festivities of winter – should look no further than Traverse City . Located about 145 miles north of Grand Rapids in northern Michigan , this city overlooks Lake Michigan and boasts long summer days that visitors can spend hiking, biking and fishing. Enjoy the scenery at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore while trekking the protected area's trails, including the daunting Dune Climb. For adults, there are abundant wineries and craft breweries for sampling libations of all sorts. Families visiting in winter should also take advantage of the area's frequent snowfall for skiing, snowshoeing and fat biking.

There are several major chain hotels in town to choose from, but families may enjoy staying at the Great Wolf Lodge Traverse City . This kid-friendly property features indoor pools and water park fun that everyone can enjoy year-round.

[See more of Traverse City:  Things to Do  | Tours  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This Midwestern city, sitting on the shores of Lake Michigan and at the confluence of three rivers, offers a plethora of outdoor water-based activities for families to enjoy on their vacation, including sailing, fishing and jet skiing. Milwaukee is also the original "Brew City," as it's said that beer is what made the city famous. So, if you're interested in the city's brewery heritage, you might want to visit the historic Pabst Mansion and take a beer history tour at Pabst Brewing Co. If you've got a craving for hearty Bavarian fare, you and the kids will enjoy checking out the German restaurants on Old World Third Street. Other must-see attractions for families include the Harley-Davidson Museum , Discovery World and the Milwaukee Art Museum .

If you prefer to stay downtown, consider reserving rooms at The Pfister Hotel . This historic property first welcomed guests in 1893; today, the vintage guest rooms boast modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs and Wi-Fi. You'll also find a luxurious spa and salon; the Mason Street Grill; and Blu, the chic 23rd-floor martini bar overlooking the city and Lake Michigan.

[See more of Milwaukee:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  Photos  ]

Branson, Missouri

If you want nonstop entertainment during your next family weekend getaway , venture to Branson , where you'll find live shows , theme parks, outdoor adventure, museums and the beautiful Ozark Mountains. Spend a day at Silver Dollar City , an 1880s-themed amusement park (one of the best U.S. amusement parks ) with more than 40 rides and attractions, 100 artisans demonstrating trades, 60 shops and 18 dining venues. Before leaving the park, save time to explore the limestone formations below the Earth's surface in one of Branson's caverns: Marvel Cave. Or, you can spend the day at one of the newest attractions in town, Aquarium on the Boardwalk. Other top things to see and do in this Missouri city include the Titanic Museum Attraction , the new WonderWorks and the many live shows in town.

When you're ready to sleep, you can choose between everything from spacious condominiums and cabins to full-service hotels and resorts. The Chateau on the Lake Resort & Spa Convention Center is an excellent choice for accommodations near Silver Dollar City. Picturesquely set atop a bluff overlooking Table Rock Lake , the property features plenty of on-site activities, dining and other offerings.

[See more of Branson:  Things to Do  |  Hotels  |  When to Visit  |  Photos  ]

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Situated about 80 miles northwest of Chicago – perfect for a weekend getaway from the "Windy City" – the small town of Lake Geneva is a year-round outdoor enthusiast's paradise in Wisconsin . Warm weather activities include hot air balloon rides, zip lining, water sports, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and visits to farms and orchards. In the wintertime, kids of all ages can bundle up for fun in the snow with horse-drawn sleigh rides, skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating and sledding at The Mountain Top at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa . If that's not enough to keep everyone busy, book accommodations at the resort's Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark. The property's expansive indoor-outdoor water park boasts thrilling slides and rides, plus a relaxing lazy river.

Kansas City, Missouri

Travelers to Kansas City will actually find two cities two explore – Kansas' Kansas City and Missouri's Kansas City. Separated by the Missouri River, each town has a unique vibe and personality, but both are part of the greater Kansas City metropolitan area – though you'll find more of the tourist attractions on the Missouri side. Baseball fans will want to catch a Kansas City Royals game while in town and should also check out the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in the 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District; this acclaimed museum documents the stories and history of the leagues from their post-Civil War origin to the 1960s. The American Jazz Museum, which is located next door, is another popular museum with interactive exhibits and displays.

Another must-do on your Kansas City trip is a visit to Union Station . This iconic destination offers hands-on activities for kids at Science City, astronomy programs and evening laser concerts at the Arvin Gottlieb Planetarium, and larger-than-life movie viewing at the Regnier Extreme Screen Theatre – which has the biggest screen in the region at 80 by 53 feet. Historic Union Station is especially festive to visit during the holidays. For an overnight in the city, the trendy Crossroads Hotel is an excellent choice for accommodations if you want to stay close to Union Station.

[See more of Kansas City: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos ]

Door County, Wisconsin

Located on a peninsula around 75 miles northeast of Green Bay, Wisconsin's Door County sits between Lake Michigan on the east side and Green Bay to the west. The area covers 300 miles along Lake Michigan's shoreline – encompassing more than 3,000 square miles total – and boasts a plethora of beaches, state parks and county parks with thousands of acres of wilderness. While in Door County, work your way through some of the charming local towns and villages along the peninsula, along with nearly a dozen historic lighthouses. You can also check out the shipwrecks (as many as 25 of them are accessible to travelers) via boat rides, clear-bottom kayak tours or diving.

Cherry season is a highlight in the summer months, when you can visit the orchards and pick your own cherries. You may even get to experience a local tradition during your visit: a Scandinavian-style fish boil. This dish, popular with the region's early settlers, is typically prepared in restaurants with local whitefish, potatoes and onions. Melted butter, salad or coleslaw, bread, and freshly baked Door County cherry pie can round out the meal. Lodging options in this region range from campgrounds and cabins to charming bed-and-breakfasts and larger resorts. There are also pet-friendly options so your family can bring your best furry friend.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Head to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a classic American getaway that will transport you back in time. Victorian architecture is on display everywhere you turn, and no cars are permitted anywhere on the island. The only way to arrive is by boat or plane – and to get around the island, you'll need to book a horse-drawn carriage tour, hop on a bike or explore by foot. Families with teens may especially enjoy horseback riding in Mackinac Island State Park, visiting Fort Mackinac, parasailing or paddleboarding to Arch Rock. Don't forget to try some of the island's famous fudge.

For a stay filled with old-world charm (think: a classic white porch with rocking chairs, a parlor with afternoon tea service, and croquet and bocce ball games in the Tea Garden), book a room at the iconic Grand Hotel . Welcoming guests since 1887, the property boasts the world's longest porch and individually appointed accommodations. In the evening, dress up for dinner and then dance the night away to the music of the Grand Hotel Orchestra. The resort offers all-inclusive packages that cover accommodations, daily breakfast and dinner, all resort amenities and other perks.

A trip to the Windy City is usually best in the summer months, when visitors can get out and explore the city's shops, lakefront beaches and phenomenal architecture. Stop by the Chicago Architecture Center to book an architecture cruise down the Chicago River for an up-close view of the city's many buildings. A trip to Wrigley Field (home of MLB's Chicago Cubs) is also in order, as is shopping along Michigan Avenue's Magnificent Mile. Be sure to refuel with some deep-dish pizza at a classic restaurant, such as Lou Malnati's or Gino's East, before retiring for the night. The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago offers a central location and rooms with large bay windows, while the ACME Hotel Company features funky digs in the River North district.

Put-in-Bay, Ohio

Put-in-Bay is the village that sits on South Bass Island, an idyllic retreat located in Lake Erie – and it's only accessible by ferry, private boat or by plane. The historic village was a stopover for early English and French explorers; one theory for the origin of its name is that sailors would "put in the bay" when the water became too rough. Even though the island is only 3 miles from mainland Ohio , a trip here is like a step back in time, with Victorian-era architecture and a quaint small-town vibe. Since South Bass Island also features a 33-acre state park, outdoor activities and water sports are abundant. Visitors also come to shop for local crafts in the boutiques downtown and sample vintages from the two wineries – Put-in-Bay Winery and the family-owned Heineman Winery. Lodging options range from small resorts and bed-and-breakfasts to private homes and cottages.

The island is also home to two one-of-a-kind attractions: the longest bar in the world at the Beer Barrel Saloon and the world's tallest Doric column. The 352-foot-high Perry's Victory and International Peace Memorial commemorates the Battle of Lake Erie during the War of 1812, and celebrates the continued peace between the U.S., Canada and the U.K.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Baseball Stadium Trips
• The Top Weekender Bags
• The Top Travel Backpacks
• The Top Travel Pillows
• The Top Travel Strollers

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The 13 Most Beautiful Places in the Midwest

PureWow editors select every item that appears on this page, and the company may earn compensation through affiliate links within the story. All prices are accurate upon date of publish. You can learn more about the affiliate process here .

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.

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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.

Explore hotels in Madison County

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.

Explore hotels near Peninsula State Park

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.

Explore hotels near Lake of the Ozarks State Park

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.

Explore hotels near Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore

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.

Explore hotels near Monument Rocks National Landmark

THE 10 MOST BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN ILLINOIS

Freelance PureWow Editor

Midwest travel ideas: 12 under-the-radar destinations to visit in America’s Heartland

Aug 27, 2024 • 5 min read

Milwaukee might have a reputation as a workaday town – but that's what makes it great © JMKE Photography / Visit Milwaukee

Flyover Country, no more! The Midwestern United States may not be as flashy as their high-profile East or West Coast counterparts. Still, they prove their vacation value through accessibility, friendly hospitality, surprising attractions, natural beauty and affordability. Here are a few fantastic Midwest travel ideas you might want to consider for your next getaway in America’s Heartland.

1. The music of Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Are you ready to rock? Multi-faceted Milwaukee is home to the world’s largest outdoor music festival. It also holds 88Nine Radio Milwaukee live studio sessions, a notable club scene and the historic Pabst and Riverside Theaters .

Summerfest comes to town for two weeks each June and July, attracting 800,000 attendees. There are more than a dozen stages, 800 performers and big-name headliners spanning a gamut of genres.

Music of a different tune, the throaty roar of Harley-Davidson motorcycles, is an iconic part of Milwaukee’s cultural soundtrack. Catch live musical performances during the Bike Nights summer concert series at the Harley-Davidson Museum .

2. High fashion in Columbus, Ohio

Ohio’s trendy capital city has emerged as a fashion hub in recent years thanks to cutting-edge design schools, flashy showcase events, chic boutiques and major retail headquarters. Fun fact: Columbus is home to more resident fashion designers (including several Project Runway contestants) than any other city in the United States except New York and Los Angeles.

The open-air Easton Town Center is populated with high-end retailers, sophisticated restaurants and upscale entertainment venues. The eclectic Short North Arts District has fun boutiques and vintage shops to browse.

3. Sweet life in Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City’s bread-and-butter crop, sweet and tart cherries, pops up at farm stands across the Up North region through late summer. You can also find then in Traverse City Whiskey Co. cocktails, Grand Traverse Pie Company slices of pie and sweet and savory Cherry Republic products all year.

Acres of idyllic wineries and orchards dot the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas rolling hills, perfectly paired with the gorgeous Lake Michigan vistas from nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Summer is high season, but the Traverse City area also boasts enviable skiing terrain, fat-tire bike trails, and snowmobile routes, making it an attractive destination for winter recreation.

Read more on Traverse, Leelanau and Sleeping Bear Dunes

4. Fly high in Wichita, Kansas

Wichita boasts a proud aviation heritage, producing 35 percent of the world’s general aircraft and home to one of just two known airworthy B29s left in the world. The Kansas Aviation Museum educates and entertains with B-47 and B-52 jet bombers on display, flight simulators and interactive exhibits. The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum offers a deep dive into the lives of local flight innovators.

Visitors can drive, or fly-in, to Stearman Field Bar & Grill for breakfast, lunch or dinner. They can enjoy Southern-style fare while private planes take off from and land on a runway 20 yards away.

Cap off your Wichita trip with a craft beer toast to the city’s high-flying accomplishments at Aero Plains Brewing .

5. Family fun in Fort Wayne, Indiana

The second-largest city in Indiana brims with year-round family fun. Housed in the historic former City Light and Power Plant, STEM-based Science Central features more than 200 interactive displays and touring exhibits for visitors of all ages to get their hands on.

The ‘aw!’-inspiring Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo wows with live animals across recreated African, Indonesian rainforest and Australian habitats. Meanwhile, the expansive new Promenade Park on the downtown riverfront proposes water activities, a tree canopy trail and an amphitheater for outdoor shows.

After researching your family tree at the Allen County Public Library’s Genealogy Center , feast along the Fall Apple Trail (this is Johnny Appleseed territory, after all). Or treat yourself to gourmet truffles, caramels and creams at DeBrand Fine Chocolates any time of the year.

6. Intellectual pursuits in Iowa City, Iowa

Bookworms, writers and literary types gravitate to Iowa’s original state capital, which was awarded a UNESCO City of Literature designation in 2008. The University of Iowa (go Hawkeyes!) hosts the prestigious Iowa Writers’ Workshop residency program. 

You might spy resulting tomes on the shelves at Prairie Lights Bookstore , famous for its author appearances, in-store readings and expansive inventory. Read about 49 different Iowa-connected writers with a leisurely self-guided tour of the ground-level bronze panels comprising the downtown Literary Walk .

7. Quirky Casey, Illinois

This tiny town just off I-70, halfway between Indianapolis and St. Louis , makes a big impression on pit-stoppers. Populated with a handful of Guinness-certified “World’s Largest” items — wind chimes, a rocking chair, a (working) mailbox, knitting needles, wooden shoes, a pitchfork and a golf tee. Along with many other supersized features, including a pencil, a yardstick, a spinning top and an ear of corn, Casey serves up a fantastic free-to-visit collection of photo ops. A local business owner devised the promotion to encourage visitors to pull off the highway and explore the town. Mission accomplished for this Midwest vacation spot .

8. Marvelous museums in Kansas City

Straddling the state line where Missouri meets Kansas, the ' City of Fountains ' commemorates history, art and culture with a diverse assembly of museums to discover.

A respected local landmark since the Great Depression, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art displays a comprehensive collection spanning over 34,000 pieces and 5,000 years.

The National WWI Museum and Memorial is a moving repository for personal objects, documents and stories of the brave American soldiers who fought in this global conflict. The Negro Leagues Baseball Museum offers a meaningful multimedia examination of the African-American baseball experience throughout the league’s lifespan from the Civil War era through 1960.

Newly renovated, the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library and Museum honors the life and legacy of the only American President to hail from Missouri.

9. Monumental history in Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City is a launching pad for adventure both within and beyond. Mount Rushmore and Crazy Horse, two historic memorials, are less than an hour’s drive away. The Badlands National Park is also only a 60-minute drive. 

Affectionately known as the ‘City of Presidents’, the city includes 43 lifesize bronze statues of past U.S. presidents in the walkable downtown area. No visit is complete without a walk down Art Alley , an ever-changing alley filled with graffiti representing creative expression and freedom of speech.  

Custer State Park , the state’s largest park, is also only a 30-minute drive away. Known for its scenic drives, Needles Highway is sure to amaze. Up to 1,400 bison roam freely here, so watch for the stoic creatures as you pass through. 

During Indigenous People’s Day in the fall, you can glimpse one of the nation's most significant cultural celebrations, the Black Hills Pow Wow . Combined with an impressive local bar and restaurant scene, Rapid City is quickly becoming one of the “coolest” cities in the Midwest. 

10. Seek adventure in Wisconsin Dells

Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells offers fun and adventure for kids and kids at heart. Visit Noah’s Ark , the largest outdoor waterpark in the world, or Kalahari Resorts and Convention if it’s cold outside. For those who want the best of both worlds, The Wilderness Resort offers the largest indoor-outdoor combination. For those who want to feel they have “gotten away” for spring break without heading south, Wisconsin Dells is an excellent choice for your next family vacation.

The fun doesn’t stop there. Ziplining at Bigfoot Ziplining or off-roading into the water on The Original Wisconsin Ducks is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Less than a 30-minute drive outside town is Devil’s Lake State Park , with 29 miles of breathtaking hiking and 6 miles of off-road biking trails. 

After all that adventure-seeking, book a sunset cruise with Dells Boat Tours or check into Sundara Spa , a top-rated adult-only retreat that offers day passes. For maximum zen, don’t skip the purifying bath ritual. 

11. Slow down on Mackinac Island, Michigan

No cars? No problem. On one of the Great Lakes, Mackinac Island is only accessible by ferry or plane, and vehicles are not allowed on the island itself. To get around, visitors can take a horse-drawn carriage, rent a bike from the Mackinac Island Bike Shop , walk or go on horseback. 

Nature enthusiasts will love Mackinac Island State Park , which covers 80% of the island. Arch Rock , the most famous rock formation on the island, promises breathtaking views of Lake Huron. 

After touring around, visit one of the famous fudge shops. Joann’s Fudge has been churning out delicious fudge since 1969. Those who love quaint small towns will love this beautiful place. 

12. Fall colors in North Shore, Minnesota

If you want to see fall colors mid-to-late September, head a few hours north of the Twin Cities to the North Shore, the stretch between Duluth and Grand Portage. As the season progresses, check the DNR’s Fall Color Finder for the best time to visit this region nestled along one of the Great Lakes. 

Plan to hike along the Superior Hiking Trail , with over 300 miles of footpaths and 50 trailheads. The 2.3-mile Oberg Mountain and 6.5-mile Bean & Bear Loop are two of the most popular hikes in the area. The North Shore is excellent for those who love natural beauty. 

For a unique experience, those on a budget can camp along one of the 94 backcountry campsites. If you want to plan, make a reservation at one of the seven state parks along that stretch. For those who would prefer to stay indoors, check out Grand Superior Lodge , Bluefin Bay or Chateau LeVeaux for stunning views of Lake Superior. 

Frequently Asked Questions: 

What is the best season to visit the midwest.

Summer is one of the best seasons to visit the Midwest , with temperatures averaging mid-70s to mid-80s in the warmer months. Mid-September to mid-October is a great time to see the Fall colors. For those into ice and snow sports, heading further north in the winter boasts more options. 

What are some must-visit national parks in the Midwest?

National parks in the Midwest offer diverse nature and abundant great outdoors opportunities. The list includes Voyageurs in Minnesota, Isle Royale in Michigan, Indiana Dunes in Indiana, Gateway Arch in Missouri, and Cuyahoga Valley in Ohio. 

Where should I go for spring break in the Midwest?

There are many great options for a spring Midwest vacation. Known as “The Windy City,” Chicago has a bustling city scene and many iconic places to visit. Other vibrant cities include St. Louis, Kansas City, Grand Island and Traverse City. Those looking for more natural beauty can check out Door County, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Lake Geneva and Grand Haven for beautiful beaches.

This article was first published Jul 8, 2019 and updated Aug 27, 2024.

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18 Top-Rated Midwest Vacations

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023

Author Anietra Hamper is a native of the Midwest and has been to some of the best vacation spots that visitors can experience.

One of the best features when considering a Midwest vacation is that these states experience all four seasons, so the scenery and experiences are different every time you go. While major cities like Indianapolis and Chicago are top places to visit in the Midwest, some of the best vacation spots are in the more subdued destinations, like Mackinac Island in Michigan or the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri .

Depending on the time of year you want to plan a vacation, you can consider places that offer ski resorts and scenic byways or simple sunsets and spring break getaways. What makes a Midwest vacation even better is the convenience of getting to most of the cities since they are centrally located in the United States.

Choose the ideal place to visit with our list of the best Midwest vacations.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Chicago, illinois, door county, wisconsin, put-in-bay, ohio, kansas city, south dakota ski resorts, wisconsin dells, wisconsin, st. louis, missouri, indianapolis, indiana, lake of the ozarks, missouri, traverse city, michigan, duluth, minnesota, mount rushmore & rapid city, south dakota, cleveland, ohio, milwaukee, wisconsin, ohio's amish country, branson, missouri, omaha, nebraska, map of midwest vacations.

Highlight: Simplistic, old-school vacation vibe inspired by historic hotels; no cars allowed on the island

One of the most magical vacation experiences in the Midwest is on Mackinac Island in Michigan. There is a quiet charm on the island, as no vehicles are allowed, which is part of what makes it one of the best places to visit in Michigan . Vacationers are transported to the resorts by horse and carriage, and during their stay, they get around on foot or by bicycle.

Your vacation begins with the ferry ride from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island across Lake Huron, and whether you spend your day hiking through the Mackinac Island State Park , kayaking along the shoreline and Arch Rock, or just kicking back in a rocking chair to watch the sunset, you can put your wristwatch away and feel comfortable on vacation time.

There is a vintage vacation elegance on the island, with the Victorian architecture of the homes and the beautiful historic resorts that have welcomed visitors for decades. Two of the most notable and luxurious places to stay are the Grand Hotel , which sits on top of the hill, and Mission Point Resort , which is easily spotted by the collection of Adirondack chairs on the front lawn, ready for the evening spectacle of the sunset.

If you want to add some sightseeing to a few days, you can arrange for a horseback ride around the island and visit Fort Mackinac , a historic military outpost. The best experiences on the island happen by just exploring on your own, past the intricately manicured gardens and the lilac trees. You can book a sunset cruise or fireworks cruise on the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry on summer weekends.

Highlight: The adventurous ways to see Chicago from above is from the city's tallest buildings

The great city of Chicago in Illinois is one of the best vacation spots in the Midwest because there are so many things to do. The Windy City is filled with culture, music, arts, and of course that famous deep-dish pizza. You can theme each day of your vacation to cover the best that Chicago has to offer.

Two of the top places to visit during your Chicago vacation are Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Millennium Park is part of Grant Park, which is where you are likely to catch a summer concert or festival during your stay.

The historic Navy Pier has so much to see, from gardens and restaurants to a performing arts center. You can take a ride on the 150-foot Ferris wheel for one of the best views of the city. If this is a family vacation, the kids will enjoy the Chicago Children's Museum located at Navy Pier.

To catch some of the arts scene in the city plan a day to visit the Art Institute of Chicago , and catch a live show at one of the theaters in the city, like the Chicago Theatre, CIBC Theatre, or the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

No vacation to Chicago is complete without some time to shop along Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile . The upscale retailers and shops make for an exciting day filling your shopping bags with new finds.

Add in a day of adventure hitting two of Chicago's most ambitious attractions: 360 Chicago , located on the 94 th floor of the John Hancock Building, is not for those who are afraid of heights. The observation deck gives you a great view of the city, with a tilt feature that leans you 1,000 feet over the Chicago skyline.

The SkyDeck Chicago at Willis Tower is the other high-rise attraction worth seeing. As you ride up to the SkyDeck on the 103 rd floor of what was once the world's tallest office building, you will be 1,353 feet off the ground and see into the landscape for nearly 50 miles.

Highlights: Family-owned businesses, farms, restaurants, and ice cream parlors that have been around for generations

The Door County peninsula of Wisconsin, most identifiable as the "thumb" of the state, is one of the best vacation ideas in the Midwest because of the variety of things to do and for the number of towns that you can visit in a short period of time.

Door County has 19 small towns along the 70-mile peninsula, which is bordered by Lake Michigan on one side and Green Bay on the other. It is a charming chain of communities with many small businesses like restaurants and resorts, making it a wholesome vacation for families traveling with kids or for a romantic getaway .

You can stay in a place like Egg Harbor or Sister Bay and spend your vacation days going to the other communities to experience the family-owned cherry orchards, biking, or taking a ride on the Door County Trolley to see some of the area's highlights. Outdoor enthusiasts can spend every day hiking in one of the five state parks in Door County. One of the best and largest is Peninsula State Park .

The water is a main draw in Door County, with more than 300 miles of coastline, so plan a few days to experience some of the beaches and kayaking opportunities , where you can see shipwrecks and sea caves.

For a fun day trip, take the ferry to Washington Island , where you can see lavender fields and Schoolhouse Beach with its unique all-rock shoreline.

Highlight: The ferry ride to get to the island has regular departure times to and from the mainland so you can stay as long as you want.

One of the best Midwest spring break ideas is Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Ohio. It is a popular vacation spot both for residents looking for Ohio weekend getaways and for those traveling from out of state.

The island is off the northern Ohio coast in Lake Erie and has gained a reputation as one of the best getaways in the Midwest. The island calls to spring breakers every year, who hop on the Jet Express ferry from Sandusky or Port Clinton and head to the small island, which is big on fun.

For the younger crowd, your vacation will likely center around Put-in-Bay's social scene. There is a cluster of restaurants and activities in the center of town where vacationers congregate.

As you head out from the main drag, things get quieter around the South Bass Island state park and the other side of the island. You can rent kayaks and Jet Skis and get out on the Lake Erie waters, or just enjoy hanging out, which is what most visitors do here.

Families will find plenty of things to do in Put-in-Bay , too. It's wise to start with a tour of the island on the Tour Train to get a lay of the land. You can get on and off the train as you like and see some of the top attractions, like the Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and Perry's Cave Family Fun Center .

While you will find a number of condominiums and Bed and Breakfasts on the island, if you are looking for something a bit more exclusive, the Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel is an adults-only lodging option that is located away from the bustle of the main tourist areas.

Highlight: Visit two states in one vacation as Kansas City stretches into Kansas and Missouri

A Kansas City vacation is one of the best vacation ideas if you are looking to get the most bang for your buck. The city straddles both Missouri and Kansas , so it is possible to visit both states in the same trip.

Start in Missouri with some of the best of Kansas City , including free activities in town, like the Crown Center, which has great shopping and restaurants and is the international headquarters for Hallmark Cards.

Make your way to the Money Museum (also free), which has interactive exhibits, like a 27-pound gold bar. Walk the city and see how many of the 200 fountains you can spot and see why Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains. While you are on the Missouri side, be sure to take in a bite of famous Kansas City barbecue, a jazz performance, and a Kansas City Chiefs football game featuring the 2020 Super Champions.

The Kansas side of your vacation might be a day trip or several days to cover some of the best attractions on this side of the river . The Kansas City Speedway is a must-experience, where you can take in a NASCAR race or get in a car with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Another day can be spent at the Zip KC Zip Line Park , which is an adventure park with zipline tours. You can round out your quick visit to Kansas at the T-Rex Café, which is a fun and educational dining experience.

Highlights: Outdoor winter recreation, from downhill and cross-country skiing to tubing and snowboarding

If a Midwest winter vacation is what you are looking for, then you might consider some of the ski resorts in South Dakota. The Terry Peak Ski Area near Lead and Deadwood is where many winter vacationers go, as it is a family-friendly destination in the Black Hills. There are 29 trails for every ski level, and a terrain park. There are also cross-country ski trails through the dense pine forests.

Great Bear Ski Valley near Sioux Falls is another option. It is a year-round recreation park that has skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter. There are 14 downhill skiing trails, a tubing park for families, and groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Lessons and rentals are available, so all you have to do is show up.

South Dakota is great for other winter recreation besides downhill skiing. It is one of the top places to visit in the U.S. for snowmobiling, with more than 1,500 miles of trails in the state. Just outside Spearfish , you can find 350 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and lodging.

Highlight: Family-centric atmosphere, more than 20 indoor and outdoor water parks

The Wisconsin Dells is one of the best midwestern family vacations because of its attractions , and it is considered the water park capital of the world . With top water parks like Kalahari, Noah's Ark Water Park, and Great Wolf Lodge, it is great to vacation at one of these resorts, where you have the option of staying in or heading out.

If you want something a bit more private, you can stay at Cedar Lodge and Settlement , which has private cabins and chalets on wooded and waterfront property, with a beach for guests.

The Wisconsin Dells is the kind of midwestern vacation that brings back forever memories with unique experiences, like riding in the Original Wisconsin Ducks , which tour on both the land and water.

The Wisconsin Dells has family-friendly tourist attractions like the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum and the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater and illusion show.

To enjoy some of the natural side of the Wisconsin Dells spend at least one day outdoors at the Wisconsin Deer Park , or hike and zipline near Lake Delton.

Highlight: Historic Route 66 runs through the city with old diners and iconic signage along the Mother Road

Plan a road trip through St. Louis along Route 66 in Missouri . You will see the famous St. Louis Gateway Arch and other historic sites along the famous highway. Spend a few days with a loose agenda to make your way around to see some of the drive-ins, diners, filling stations, and old signage that exists along the St. Louis section of Route 66.

You will find an extra adventure by figuring out the various alignments of Route 66 that go through the city. You will travel through St. Louis' diverse districts, which each have a variety of hotel options. For the rest of your vacation, you can settle into the city and experience some of the best attractions , like the Missouri Botanical Garden and the City Museum.

You will want to spend several days exploring Forest Park Forever , where many of the attractions are free. The park is the location of the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, and the City Art Museum.

If you plan a summer vacation, be sure to spend one evening at Busch Stadium and catch a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game.

Highlight: The energy of the city with the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indiana's capital city of Indianapolis is one of the best Midwest vacations because there is a fun energy and so many options to fit into one visit.

For families, vacations will likely center around the Children's Museum of Indianapolis , the largest children's museum in the world , with exhibits that range from dinosaurs to an immersive Sports Legends Experience.

Couples vacationing in Indianapolis will enjoy a weekend getaway surrounding the Indianapolis Motor Speedway . The Indy 500 events in the spring are the prime times to visit, but even outside the race activities, the speedway has year-round experiences like a museum and other races.

While you can fill your agenda with attractions , you might want to plan some down time to enjoy White River State Park, which is an expansive green space in the middle of the city with a three-mile walking path, shops, and restaurants.

If you need a little more outdoor time, you can head to the Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve , where you can kayak, hike, fish, and zipline. There is also a golf course in the park. There are some fun hotel options in Indianapolis that range from luxury and themed to mainstream to accommodations in renovated historic buildings.

Highlights: Outdoor experiences like fishing, boating, birdwatching, caverns, and camping

The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is one of the best outdoor vacation spots in the Midwest and home to one of the best lakes in the United States . If you stay in one of the resorts or cabins in the area, you will be surrounded by water and forest and be able to fill your days with many outdoor activities. Want even more nature immersion? You can book a spot at one of the campgrounds around Lake of the Ozarks .

The Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest in Missouri — you can find 85 miles of shoreline, several public beaches, hiking, bird-watching, biking, and boating.

A couple of days can be used to explore one or all of the four cave systems in Lake of the Ozarks: Bridal Cave, Stark Caverns, Ozark Caverns, and Jacob's Cave. While there are thousands of caves in the region, these caves have been adapted for safe trekking.

If you want to get in a scenic game of golf, there are three courses around the lake. For a nice evening out before the bonfire and stargazing, you can catch a performance at the Ozarks Amphitheater , which adds a nice entertainment option while enjoying Missouri's natural outdoor scene.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Lake of the Ozarks, MO

Highlight: Relaxation at the region's spas, resorts, and golf courses, surrounded by scenic views

A vacation in Traverse City, Michigan is great for a true escape. It is a laid-back area with spas and golf courses and scenic back roads. You can spend some time enjoying the luxury resorts and the beautiful scenery near Grand Traverse Bay and then get out to enjoy the natural outdoor playgrounds in the area.

Head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for a day and hike the famous dunes or go for a swim in Lake Michigan. You will want to spend another day in downtown Traverse City, where you can go shopping in small boutiques and peruse the antique shops and quaint art galleries.

The Lake Michigan sunsets are spectacular from Traverse City, so plan to spend a few nights enjoying farm-to-table fare at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Highlights: Outdoor serenity with trout fishing, hiking, kayaking, and beautiful scenery

The Lake Superior port city of Duluth, Minnesota is a terrific Midwest vacation because it encompasses the best experiences from the Great Lakes, the scenic outdoors, and a charming city.

A Duluth vacation is ideal for those looking to enjoy time outside and searching for a quieter getaway. There are thousands of acres of parkland and hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the city. The Lakewalk is a good place to start in downtown Duluth, as the 7.3-mile walkway follows the shoreline of Lake Superior.

Anglers can try some of the 16 designated trout streams around Duluth and hire a guide to learn or improve fly fishing techniques. You can spend time on the water with a guided kayak tour along the north and south shores or rent a fat bike or paddleboard.

If you want to take your outdoor adventure up a notch, you can tackle one of Duluth's mountain bike trails with one that fits your skill level. You will want to plan a window of your itinerary to visit Canal Park and watch the ships come in and out of port.

Since the scenery in Duluth is so spectacular, you might want to spend a day driving along the Skyline Parkway , which is a 25-mile Scenic Byway with the best views of the city and Lake Superior. You can make a day of it by stopping to enjoy the overlooks and parks along the way.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Duluth, MN

Highlight: Ranger talks at Mount Rushmore provide additional history and information

A Mount Rushmore vacation in South Dakota is one of the most iconic American holidays for residents and international visitors alike. You could base yourself in Rapid City and make the trip to Mount Rushmore, located less than 20 miles away.

A day trip or several to Mount Rushmore should be planned out to make the most of your time. The national park has over two million visitors a year, and there is a lot to see, so it does require a bit of visitor strategy.

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial surrounded by the Black Hills is the centerpiece of your visit, so it is worth starting at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn basic background about the monument, its purpose, and preservation.

You can take a self-guided tour of the area or take part in scheduled ranger talks on-site. To avoid large crowds, plan your visit in May, September, or October, and try to arrive before 9:30am or after 3:30pm. Spend the other part of your vacation in Rapid City, where you can experience the history of the Black Hills with a trip on the Black Hills Central Railroad, visit historic sites important to the Native American Culture, or hike in the Black Hills National Forest .

Rapid City has a number of other tourist attractions , including the Museum of Geology and a thriving arts district. Be sure to walk through downtown to see the City of Presidents, and try to identify some of the life-sized bronze statues of U.S. Presidents.

Highlight: The social scene of Cleveland is in the Warehouse District, with dining and entertainment any night of the week.

Ohio's second-largest city, which sits on the shores of Lake Erie, makes for a great Midwest getaway for those who love sports, music, arts, and cities that have repurposed industrial areas into modern public and entertainment spaces.

A visit to Cleveland starts with some of the most notable attractions , like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , Cleveland Museum of Art, Great Lakes Science Center , and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

You are sure to find sporting events happening in town on almost any given week with so many teams that call Cleveland home. From professional sports like the Major League Baseball Cleveland Guardians, National Football League Cleveland Browns, and National Basketball Association Cleveland Cavaliers, be sure to pack your logo gear for the excitement that fills the city on game days.

It is fun to explore Cleveland's diverse ethnic neighborhoods and soak up the culture that defines each. Start at the historic West Side Market , located inside an early 1900s market house, with more than 100 vendors selling meats, cheese, baked goods, and specialty products.

Cleveland has multicultural neighborhoods to visit, like the Clark-Fulton area with a Hispanic and Latino population, Little Italy , or the Broadway-Slavic village . For shopping, go to the historic Arcade Cleveland, and for a night of entertainment, head to the iconic Warehouse District for a variety of restaurants and nightlife.

Highlight: Hidden gems that are worth a stop like the Bobblehead Museum and the Original Cheesehead Factory

Milwaukee is a city that is full of surprises, making it even more exciting to visit for fun or to plan a weekend getaway once you discover all of its hidden highlights. Start your Milwaukee visit with a stroll through downtown and through the RiverWalk District and the Historic Third Ward .

You will find the heart of the social scene in the small eateries and along the streets. Stop by the Milwaukee Public Market , which is one of the most bustling places to visit in the city and where you can find unique goods, from spices to gifts.

Look closely around town at the sides of buildings and pedestrian areas for an abundance of Instagram-worthy public art that makes for a fun and whimsical stroll through town.

Plan to visit the beautiful Milwaukee Art Museum , a notable waterfront landmark on the shores of Lake Michigan. The building itself is an art piece, with a vaulted glass ceiling stretching 90 feet into the air, designed to look like wings.

The Harley-Davidson Museum is another must-visit Milwaukee attraction , with a walk through time of this iconic American brand. See the evolution of Harley-Davidson's more than 100-year history, then stop for a hearty meal at the Motor Restaurant at the museum.

Milwaukee has a number of quirky things to do, too, like the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum , which is worth an hour or two of your time. You've likely heard the term "cheesehead" associated with Milwaukee, even if you do not know much about the city. It refers to the iconic cheesehead hat worn by fans of NFL team the Green Bay Packers.

You can book a factory and production tour of The Original Cheesehead Factory , or just stop by the small storefront to peruse every type of cheesehead merchandise and try on the famous foam hat.

Take advantage of the Milwaukee River, which runs through town, by booking a kayak tour that also encompasses history about the city, or take a river cruise at night to see the artsy and illuminated city scene from a new perspective.

Highlight: The backroads in Amish Country exemplify a slower, peaceful pace of life with laundry on the line

The largest Amish population in the United States is in Ohio, in the northern part of the state, which is one of the most peaceful and memorable Midwest vacations that you can experience. It is one of the best places to visit in Ohio , which is why so many people who live in the state retreat to Amish Country when they need a break from city life.

Holmes County is a great place to base yourself in a quaint bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Charm, Berlin, Walnut Creek, or Sugarcreek.

Take a drive along the backcountry roads and see a slower pace of life as Amish families work in the fields and hang laundry on the line to dry. Take your time, as you will be sharing the road with horses and buggies carrying Amish families to the markets. Amish country is famous for its small shops that sell Amish-made furniture, baskets, and baked goods.

Depending on the time of the year, you can pick apples at local orchards, plan a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter on a family-run farm, or simply drive through the many connected villages to admire the Swiss and German influence on this quiet Amish settlement.

One of the most popular things to do in Amish Country is visit Bunker Hill Cheese or one of the many nearby cheese factories that offer tours and tastings. Go hungry because you will have plenty to sample as you experience one of the other delights of Amish Country: the food. Walnut Creek Cheese is a must-visit in Walnut Creek. While it serves as a local grocery store, it is a mecca of bulk food buying opportunities, from spices to cheese for low prices.

The best days to visit Amish country are any day but Sunday, as they strictly observe the day of rest, and nothing is open.

Highlight: The Branson Entertainment District that has over 120 live entertainment shows running for visitors.

Branson, Missouri is probably best known for its abundance of live entertainment. It makes for an exciting getaway and a great family-friendly destination in the heart of the Ozarks, with lots of pet-friendly hotels, so even the dog can come on vacation. Given the diversity of things to do in Branson , from outdoor excursions to live shows and attractions, you can split your time to get a well-rounded experience and flavor of the city.

Branson has more than 100 live entertainment options that cater to all age ranges, from comedy and dinner shows to vocal concerts and guest appearances by world-class musicians.

While the lively center of Branson is one of its main draws, your getaway should include getting outdoors in the Ozark Mountains, which surround the city. There are hundreds of miles of trails to hike, and you can camp under the stars, and fish at Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, or Lake Taneycomo.

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the Highway 76 Entertainment District and the Silver Dollar City amusement park. Branson is an easy Midwest getaway to customize, with a range of options to fill your itinerary, and lodging in the area from motels and B&Bs to cabins, luxury resorts, and vacation condominiums.

Highlight: Stroll across "Bob," the 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge that connects two states

If your interest is getting away from it all, there is no better way to do that than with a visit to Nebraska, where the charm of stillness is its therapeutic gift. You can base yourself in Omaha, and plan day trips from here or just stay to enjoy the arts, tourist attractions, and hearty food that the city has to offer.

Plan to spend part of your getaway exploring all the things to do in Omaha , starting at the Lauritzen Gardens , which has 100 acres of botanical gardens and dedicated areas like a rose section and Victorian garden.

It makes sense to select a few of the historical sites and museums for some background on the location, like The Durham Museum , located inside Omaha's historic train depot.

You cannot visit Omaha without seeing the 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge just known as "Bob" for the bobbing sensation that you feel while walking across it. Bob is a fun stop because it's a centerpiece in Omaha and connects both Nebraska and Iowa, so you can stand in two states at the same time. Bob definitely offers great photos for social media.

Your getaway would not be complete without taking advantage of the spectacular stargazing that exists in Nebraska. The closest spot is at Zorinsky Lake Park , which has 1,000 acres of woods and low lights and is open year-round for stargazing. Another location is the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, located just 30 minutes outside Omaha, where you do not even need a telescope to see major constellations in the dark skies outside the city.

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Exploring More of the Midwest: If you want to extend your vacation in any of the midwestern states, you can stay in any of our recommended cities and schedule additional time from there. There are some great places to visit in Ohio and Illinois , with attractions and activities to fill a vacation. If you are looking for some Midwest outdoor experiences, you might enjoy visiting waterfalls in Wisconsin , riding on mountain bike trails in Minnesota , and swimming near some of the great beaches in Michigan .

More on Illinois

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

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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

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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!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

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

Sunday 26th of September 2021

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

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

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

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

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

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

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

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

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

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

Friday 12th of June 2020

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

BEST Places to Visit in the Midwest for Your Bucket List

Looking for the best places to visit in the Midwest ? 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 (August 8 – 18, 2024) 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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

Related Articles

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.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

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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Top Destination Cities in the Midwest

The center of the United States that stretches from the state of Ohio in the east to the Dakotas, Nebraska, and Kansas to the west is known as the Midwest. The region is further divided into the Great Lakes States (Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, Indiana, and Illinois all border one of the Great Lakes) and the Great Plains States (Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Kansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska).

Although much travel in the United States is focused on the cities of the East Coast , West Coast , and the South , the heart of the country contains one of the top destinations in the United States in Chicago; the "Gateway to the West" in St. Louis; the Mall of America, North America's largest shopping mall; automobile and musical history in Detroit; and hundreds of other traditions, foods, and landmarks worth paying a visit. The Midwest is definitely a place to see.

The biggest city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous city in the nation is Chicago. The population of the city of Chicago is around 2.7 million, while its metropolitan area boasts nearly 10 million residents.

Known as the "Second City," for its traditional rivalry with New York, or the "Windy City," for its legendary chilly weather, Chicago has architecture, art, and festivals galore, making it not only one of the top cities to visit in the Midwest but also one of the top destinations in the USA.

A landmark to see is the Buckingham Fountain, one of many  free Chicago tourist attractions . You can also visit a Chicago museum for free . Summer's milder weather makes it a great time to visit the Windy City, and attracts such as The Art of Dr. Seuss gallery make it a great family-friendly vacation spot.

Chicago is one of America's best cities for music, thanks to the Chicago Blues Festival. It's also a top foodie city, known for deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, a bevy of steakhouses, and even Michelin-starred restaurants.

Sitting on the banks of the Mississippi River, St. Louis has a lot to offer the tourist visiting the Midwest. Riverboat tours, brewery tours such as the Anheuser Busch Brewery , baseball games in the heart of the city with the beloved St. Louis Cardinals, a walking tour of St. Louis' "The Hill"  and a trip to the top of the Gateway Arch —one of the most famous landmarks in the Midwest, as well as in the U.S.A—are all must-do activities in this town known as the "Gateway to the West." 

On the south shore of Lake Erie and one of the main hubs for commerce in the Great Lakes, Cleveland was once one of the most populous cities in the United States. Although it remains a reputation as a transportation and manufacturing center, Cleveland has reinvented itself over the years as a tourist destination, thanks to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum and other developments on the North Coast Harbor. Also check out the Cleveland Museum of Art in the Wade Park District on the east side. Sports are big in Cleveland and the city boasts professional football, basketball, and baseball teams that have all been really successful in recent years. Other top Cleveland attractions  include the Greater Cleveland Aquarium. 

Detroit—Motor City—is known as the home of the Ford Motor Company, which Henry Ford founded in 1903. Detroit's other moniker, Motown, refers to Detroit's soul and R&B musical legacy from the 1960s. Detroit sits across the Detroit River from Windsor (Ontario), Canada, making Detroit a popular first stop in the United States for many Canadians.

Be sure to visit the Henry Ford Museum, as well as the GM Renaissance Center's clustering of skyscrapers and other Detroit landmarks and buildings. 

Minneapolis/St. Paul

Minnesota's Minneapolis/St. Paul area is known as the famous "Twin Cities." This urban area is comprised of Minnesota's largest city (Minneapolis), the capital and second-largest city (St. Paul), and 100s of other townships that have developed around the confluence of the Mississippi, Minnesota, and St. Croix Rivers.

The Twin Cities are known for their lakes, baseball team (check out a Minnesota Twins' game), and Garrison Keillor's old-time radio show "A Prairie Home Companion." The Mall of America, North America's largest shopping mall, located in Bloomington, MN, is accessible by light rail from the cities' centers. Minnesota also has a beautiful Midwestern landscape.

There are lots of  free things to do in Minneapolis and St. Paul , and many good restaurants.

Kansas City

Kansas City is Missouri's largest city. In fact, the city is so large that it straddles two states—Missouri and Kansas. Kansas City is renowned for its fountains—it has approximately 200 of them - as well as a thriving jazz and blues music scene. Kansas City is also known the world over for its style of barbecue. Oceans of Fun is a large water park that is perfect for families, as are Kansas City's public libraries.

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Because life's too short to stay home …, 100 best places to vacation, here's one traveler's life list for trips in the upper midwest..

© Beth Gauper

As if we didn't have enough pressures in our lives, now we have "1,000 Places to See in U.S. and Canada Before You Die" as well as the best-selling "1,000 Places to See Before You Die.'

I've been to some of the places listed in those books, but I'll never see them all in my lifetime. I'll have a fine time reading about them, though. Then I'll toss some clothes in a bag and be perfectly happy on my orbits around Lake Superior and the Mississippi.

Our own back yard, while not always glamorous, contains some wonderful places, and you actually have a good chance of seeing them all in your lifetime.

If you need a list, here's one of the 100 best places in the Upper Midwest. When you're finished with it, you'll have so many favorites to revisit you might not have time for that trip to Bora Bora.

For even more great trips, see our Trip Ideas page.

For the best trip to take each month, see A year of best places .

For trips by season, see Best of spring , Best of summer , Best of fall and Best of winter .

Into the wilderness

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the only Minnesota entry in the original "1,000 Places," and of course, this 1.1 million acre wilderness along Minnesota's border with Canada deserves the honor.

It's easy to visit on a day trip, but its solitude and wide open spaces are best appreciated by campers.

The book also lists the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on the south shore of Lake Superior, off Wisconsin's Bayfield Peninsula. Kayakers have the best access to the 21-island archipelago, but in summer, visitors can take launches to hiking trails and lighthouses on many of the islands.

In winter, the ice caves on the mainland near Cornucopia, accessible via the frozen lake for a short time in late winter, are one of the region's most splendid and unusual sights.

In far northern Minnesota, the labyrinthine waterways of Voyageurs National Park are full of wildlife and history.

The inland waterways also carried voyageurs and Ojibwe to and from Grand Portage National Monument on Lake Superior, where interpreters re-create a colorful era; the best time to go is during the annual Rendezvous in August.

From Grand Portage, ferries take hikers, campers and kayakers to Isle Royale National Park , a narrow, 45-mile-long island that has 165 miles of hiking trails and the densest population of moose in the lower 48 states.

Pilgrimage to prairie

On the opposite corner of Minnesota, the state's other national monument is a sacred site to Plains Indians, who still quarry the soft red rock that lies under quartzite that erupts out of the earth at Pipestone National Monument .

This marble-like rock, part of the uplifted floor of an ancient sea, rises to a 90-foot-high line of cliffs farther south, in dramatic Blue Mounds State Park .

Just to the east, it pops out of the sod again at Jeffers Petroglyphs , where an ancient people etched their story in nearly 2,000 characters.

Minnesota's North Shore and Lake Superior

Duluth's lakefront , once bypassed by tourists heading up the North Shore, now is hopping. The clanging of the steel Aerial Lift Bridge brings crowds running to see freighters arriving and departing.

It's fun to watch boats next to the canal, but the best views are from Skyline Parkway , 500 feet above town on a terrace that once was the beach of Glacial Lake Duluth.

Heading up the Shore, the cascades of Gooseberry Falls State Park require a stop, as do the view from Palisade Head , Shovel Point in Tettegouche State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse .

Many of the most popular segments of the Superior Hiking Trail are near Lutsen : Carlton Peak, Oberg Mountain and the Cascade River. In Grand Marais , visitors flock to the rocky outcropping of Artists Point.

Inland, a hike to Eagle Mountain takes hikers to Minnesota's highest point. On the Gunflint Trail , skiers find 200 kilometers of groomed trails; stop to eat at the midpoint Trail Center's Black Bear Bar & Restaurant , which transcends the usual skier-snowmobiler antipathies.

It's also a good place to see mushers during the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon , and outfitters in the area offer dog-sledding trips you can take yourself.

Back on the North Shore, in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, the Devil's Kettle swallows half of the Brule River; across the highway, Naniboujou and its vivid Great Hall offer a fleeting glimpse of Jazz Age days.

In Grand Portage State Park, the 120-foot High Falls on the Pigeon River are Minnesota's highest waterfall, though they're shared with Ontario.

In Thunder Bay , Fort William Historical Park re-creates the fur-trade era with astonishing thoroughness. In the Port Arthur neighborhood, stop for a meal at the Hoito , an old Finnish logging-camp restaurant.

Then keep going for the other highlights of the magnificent Circle Tour of Lake Superior , with non-stop scenery provided by lighthouses, waterfalls and jagged cliffs.

In Ontario, hike and camp at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park on the Sibley Peninsula and in Pukaskwa National Park . At Agawa Bay, see ancient petroglyphs .

In Michigan, watch the rise and fall of boats through the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, climb the Grand Sable Dunes in Grand Marais and see the cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on a cruise out of Munising.

Explore the harbor and copper-mining towns of the Keweenaw Peninsula and hike in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park .

In Wisconsin, stop in Bayfield for a show at Big Top Chautauqua and take a detour inland to see the waterfalls at Copper Falls, Amnicon and Pattison state parks.

Sights of Lake Michigan

See everything on a Circle Tour of Lake Michigan , one of the nation's great road trips. It's worth the trip just to see the impossibly picturesque Mackinac Island .

If you're on the Straits of Mackinac for Labor Day, take the once-a-year opportunity to walk across the Mackinac Bridge , the world's third-longest suspension bridge.

On the little finger of the Michigan mitten, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a giant sandbox for all ages, the marquee attraction on the Circle Tour.

From there, a magnificent stretch of beaches and resort towns line the lake, America's freshwater Riviera.

In Chicago , see everything by bicycling the 18-mile Lakefront Trail . Millennium Park and its magnetic Cloud Gate sculpture, or Bean, brings out the crowds, as does the city's architecture .

In Milwaukee , be sure to stop by the spectacular Milwaukee Art Museum to see its brise soleil furl and unfurl. Attend one of its giant ethnic festivals on the lakefront festival grounds — Polish, German, Italian, Mexican.

Wisconsin also has lovely beaches and harbor towns. But many people make a beeline for the Door Peninsula , a vacation playground.

If you're there in spring, see the wildflowers at Ridges Sanctuary ; in summer, take the ferry out to Rock Island State Park . And fall in Door County is gorgeous.

Quirky spots in Wisconsin

In Spring Green , on the Wisconsin River, the Wright masterpiece Taliesin can be visited on tours given by the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitors Center.

A different kind of spectacle sits on a limestone spire overlooking Taliesin and its valley; the over-the-top House on the Rock is said to owe its existence to its builder's desire to spite the haughty architect.

Farther upstream, the fantastical sandstone formations of the Wisconsin Dells were created by a 100-foot wall of water at the end of the last Ice Age, the same kind of deluge that created the Dalles of the St. Croix at Taylors Falls.

Signs of the last glacier can be seen best in Wisconsin by hiking around gorgeous Devil's Lake State Park and on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and by exploring the glens and hollows of the Baraboo Hills , a 25-mile-long swath recognized as a "Last Great Place" by the Nature Conservancy.

Not far from the Dells, the International Crane Foundation harbors endangered cranes from around the world. In Mirror Lake State Park, the Seth Peterson Cottage is the one of the only Wright-designed buildings the public can rent for private use.

In the last century, Wisconsin has been a crucible for many untrained artists, who work their magic in concrete and shards of glass. Wisconsin's folk-art sculpture environments is perhaps the most spectacular in the nation.

In the northern part of the state, see Fred Smith's Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips and the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden near Sheboygan .

In the south, visit the Paul and Matilda Wegner Grotto near Sparta, Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden and Museum near Fountain City and Nick Engelbert's Grandview between Mineral Point and New Glarus.

All were restored by the Kohler Foundation. The Dickeyville Grotto, in the southwest tip of the state, is worth a trip as well.

Coulees and river valleys

The last glacier slid around southwest Wisconsin and the corners of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, leaving a maze of ridges and valleys. It's often called the Driftless Area.

Norwegians settled around Westby; at their annual Snowflake International Ski Jumping Tournament , Olympic-caliber athletes soar off a 118-meter hill that's one of only four its size in North America.

In Vernon County , the son of freed slaves left a collection of round barns, and Amish settled around Cashton and Ontario. On the Kickapoo , paddlers travel in all four directions of the compass in the six miles between Ontario and Wildcat Mountain State Park.

Nearby, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail , with its three tunnels, was the first rail trail in the nation and still the pride of Wisconsin's bike trails .

Madison , with its blindingly white Capitol, museums and lively State Street squeezed onto the isthmus between two lakes, is a destination in every season. Some derisively call it an oasis from reality, and many think that's a good thing.

Just to the south, the Swiss settled around New Glarus and Monroe and built an empire of cheese; today, a Limburger-and-onion sandwich at Baumgartner's in Monroe confers instant cheesehead status.

The lead-mining town of Mineral Point drew miners from Cornwall, and its stone facades bear their mark. Their heritage is preserved at the Pendarvis historic site, and art studios and galleries line High Street.

Galena , another lead-mining town across the border in Illinois, also is a magnet for artists, shoppers and Civil War history buffs.

In Iowa, limestone chimney spires and towering bluffs amaze paddlers on the Upper Iowa River near Decorah , a bastion of Norwegian heritage.

In nearby Spillville , where composer Antonin Dvorak spent the summer of 1893, the Bily Clock Exhibit shows what two Bohemian bachelor farmers could whittle over the long, lonely winters.

In cave country across the border in Minnesota, Niagara Cave near Harmony and Mystery Cave near Preston show what drops of water can do over a few long eons. Tour guides offer trips to the many Amish farms .

Nearby, Lanesboro is a magnet for bicyclists, who come to ride the lovely Root River State Trail.

The Mississippi looms large in this region, populated by the spirits of Dakota warriors, French explorers and steamboat captains.

The best views of the Mississippi River give a sense of its scope and power: Barn Bluff in Red Wing; Buena Vista Park in Alma; Brady's Bluff in Perrot State Park, near Trempealeau ; Mount Hosmer in Lansing , in northeast Iowa; Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor ; and Wyalusing State Park near Prairie du Chien .

Chasing wildlife

Wildlife watchers look for different kinds of views. At Horicon Marsh in southeast Wisconsin, thousands of warblers and many other waterfowl stop in spring, and geese descend in fall.

In November, hundreds of tundra swans create a spectacular sight along the Mississippi near Brownsville, Minn., and Rieck's Park in Alma, Wis.

Across the river, in Wabasha and Read's Landing, eagle-watching reaches its zenith between December and March.

On the Mississippi north of the Twin Cities, more than 1,000 trumpeter swans spend the winter at Swan Park in Monticello.

And in April, hundreds flock to blinds in central Wisconsin to watch prairie-chicken courtship .

To the east, black bears frequent Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary near Orr, thrilling visitors in summer.

At the International Wolf Center in Ely , resident wolves showcase the alpha and omega of lupine behavior. On the other side of Ely, the North American Bear Center is the place to learn about bruins.

Minnesota lakes country

The headwaters of the Mississippi, in Itasca State Park , are a magnet for schoolchildren around the nation; stay at the Douglas Lodge, which has been housing park visitors since 1905.

From there, the Mississippi heads north to Bemidji , crossing Lake Bemidji near the nation's first giant mascots, Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, which have been drawing camera-toting tourists since 1937.

The 106-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail connects Bemidji to Brainerd , the state's busiest lake-resorts area in summer.

One of Minnesota's newest attractions cuts through the best of the Iron Range. Riding the Mesabi Trail between Grand Rapids and Eveleth will be a revelation to anyone who hasn't seen an emerald-green mine-pit lake or such Iron Range sights as Virginia's Mineview in the Sky or Hill Annex Mine State Park in Calumet.

The Mesabi Trail eventually will reach Tower, site of Soudan Underground Mine State Park , where visitors get into an elevator and descend the equivalent of seven football fields into the Earth.

The Twin Cities

In the Twin Cities, no Minnesotan is worth his salt if he hasn't done the basics. In Minneapolis, walk or bike along the river and lakes on the Grand Rounds . On the riverfront , walk across the Stone Arch Bridge and see a play at the Guthrie Theater.

South of downtown, visit Minnehaha Falls and then cross the river to drive along St. Paul's Summit Avenue and ogle the beautifully preserved Victorian mansions.

I wouldn't include a big shopping mall even if it is the Mall of America , but they say it's the state's No. 1 attraction.

To see the cities at their best, go to Minneapolis' Aquatennial in July, one of the best summer festivals , and see the ice sculptures during St. Paul's Winter Carnival , one of the best winter festivals .

In February, the Luminary Loppet on Minneapolis' Chain of Lakes is one of the most magical things you can do in winter, along with dozens of other candlelight skiing and snowshoeing evenings around the region.

Minnesotans, of course, must go to the Minnesota State Fair , Iowans to the Iowa State Fair and everyone in Wisconsin to the Wisconsin State Fair , all in August.

Cheeseheads also must attend at least one game at Lambeau Field in Green Bay (if they can get a ticket).

Norwegians must go to July's Nordic Fest in Decorah, and Nordic skiers must sign up for at least one Birkebeiner or Korteloppet from Cable to Hayward, Wis., in February.

Everyone should attend a few powwows , and it would be a shame to miss the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward in July.

Also be sure to catch the September Civil War battle re-enactments at the Wade House in Greenbush, Wis.; May's Tulip Time in Pella , Iowa; or, in Winnipeg , the fabulous Folk Festival in July and Folklorama in August.

It shouldn't take a lifetime to polish off this list — but if it does, I'd consider it a lifetime well-spent.

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30 Must Visit Places In Midwest City

Published: August 22, 2024

by Jerrilee Gulick

Are you ready to explore the heartland of America? Midwest City offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will leave you wanting more. From charming small towns to bustling urban centers, this region has something for everyone. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast eager to hike scenic trails or a history buff interested in exploring museums, Midwest City has it all. Don't miss out on the local cuisine, which ranges from hearty comfort food to innovative farm-to-table dishes. Ready to pack your bags? Let's dive into the 30 must-visit places in this vibrant city!

Discover Midwest City's Hidden Gems

Midwest City, Oklahoma, might not be the first place that comes to mind when planning a trip, but it has a lot to offer. From parks to museums, this city is full of surprises. Here are 30 must-visit places in Midwest City.

Joe B. Barnes Regional Park This sprawling park offers walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's perfect for a family day out or a peaceful walk.

Reno Swim and Slide A fun water park with slides and pools. Great for cooling off during hot summer days.

Midwest City Warren Theatre Experience movies in luxury with reclining seats and a full-service menu. Perfect for a date night or family outing.

Reed Conference Center This venue hosts various events, from business conferences to weddings. Check their schedule for something that interests you.

Midwest City Dog Park A great place to let your dog run free. The park is divided into areas for small and large dogs.

Dive into History and Culture

Midwest City has a rich history and vibrant culture. These spots will give you a deeper understanding of the area.

Charles B. Hall Airpark Located near Tinker Air Force Base, this airpark showcases historic aircraft and honors military history.

Midwest City Historical Society Museum Learn about the city's past through exhibits and artifacts. A must-visit for history buffs.

Rose State College Hudiburg Chevrolet Center This venue hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events. Check their calendar for upcoming shows.

Tinker Air Force Base While you can't tour the base, the nearby area offers great views of military aircraft.

The Sooner Theatre Located in nearby Norman, this historic theater hosts plays, concerts, and other performances.

Enjoy the Great Outdoors

Midwest City offers plenty of outdoor activities. These spots are perfect for nature lovers.

Eagle Harbor Aquatic Center This outdoor pool complex features slides, a lazy river, and a splash pad. Ideal for a fun day in the sun.

Soldier Creek Industrial Park A great place for a bike ride or a walk. The park is well-maintained and offers scenic views.

Lake Stanley Draper Located just outside Midwest City, this lake offers fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities.

Regional Park Disc Golf Course Challenge yourself on this well-designed disc golf course. It's free to play and open to all skill levels.

Midwest City Community Garden A peaceful spot to relax and enjoy nature. The garden features various plants and flowers.

Family-Friendly Activities

Traveling with kids? Midwest City has plenty of family-friendly attractions.

Planet Bowl This bowling alley offers fun for all ages. They also have an arcade and snack bar.

Andy Alligator's Fun Park Located in nearby Norman, this amusement park features go-karts, mini-golf, and more.

Celebration Station Enjoy arcade games, bumper boats, and batting cages. Great for a family outing.

Urban Air Trampoline and Adventure Park Kids will love bouncing around this indoor trampoline park. They also offer climbing walls and obstacle courses.

Science Museum Oklahoma Located in Oklahoma City, this museum offers hands-on exhibits and interactive displays. Perfect for curious minds.

Shopping and Dining

Midwest City has a variety of shopping and dining options. These spots are worth checking out.

Town Center Plaza This shopping center features a variety of stores and restaurants. Great for a day of retail therapy.

Jamil's Steakhouse Enjoy a delicious meal at this local favorite. Known for their steaks and Mediterranean dishes.

The Garage Burgers and Beer A casual spot for burgers and craft beer. Perfect for a laid-back meal.

Pho Hieu Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine at this popular restaurant. Their pho is a must-try.

Midwest City Farmers Market Shop for fresh produce, handmade goods, and more. Open seasonally.

Unique Experiences

Looking for something different? These unique spots offer experiences you won't find anywhere else.

Roughtail Brewing Company Take a tour of this local brewery and sample their craft beers. A fun outing for beer enthusiasts.

The Underground Explore this network of tunnels in nearby Oklahoma City. They feature art installations and historical exhibits.

Oklahoma Railway Museum Ride vintage trains and learn about the history of railroads in Oklahoma. A fun and educational experience.

Bricktown Water Taxi Take a scenic boat ride through Oklahoma City's Bricktown district. A relaxing way to see the sights.

Frontier City Theme Park Located in Oklahoma City, this Western-themed amusement park offers rides, shows, and attractions for all ages.

Midwest City's Hidden Gems Await

Midwest City offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the serene Joe B. Barnes Regional Park to the fascinating Midwest City Historical Society Museum , there's something for everyone. Foodies will love the local eateries, while shoppers can explore unique boutiques. The Reno Swim and Slide is perfect for family fun, and the Tinker Air Force Base provides a glimpse into military life. Don't miss the vibrant events at Charles J. Johnson Central Park . Each spot adds to the city's charm, making it a must-visit destination. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or just looking for a new adventure, Midwest City has it all. Pack your bags and get ready to uncover the hidden gems of this delightful city. Your next great adventure is just around the corner!

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Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest!

15 Best Midwest Attractions You Have To Visit

August 15, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored

Are you planning a trip to Midwest USA soon? Looking for some amazing Midwest attractions to explore? 

If you answered yes to the above questions, then you are in the right place. In this article, I will be listing down some of the best Midwest tourist attractions that you cannot miss out on!

Known for its diverse landscapes, photo-worthy roads, and unique culture, Midwest is a popular region to explore in the United States. 

And there are so many things to do in the Midwest!

But where exactly is the Midwest?  

The USA Midwest states include Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, Missouri, North Dakota, South Dakota, Kansas, Nebraska, Montana, and Oklahoma. 

You can go on backpacking excursions, road trips, weekend getaways, and more. There are some beautiful places in the Midwest to interest all kinds of travelers. 

So, if you are planning an epic road trip or vacation here but are confused about where to go, then we have got you covered. 

In this guide, we will be covering the 15 Best Midwest Attractions that you have to visit on your vacation here. 

Cedar Point Amusement Park

One of the fun things to do in Ohio is to visit Cedar Point Amusement Park.

It tops our list of the best Midwest Attractions that you must visit. 

This amusement park in Sandusky Ohio is home to over 100 attractions and has something for everyone of all ages. 

Located on the shores of Lake Erie, Cedar Point features some of the most thrilling rides that might entice adventure seekers.

From experiencing an 80-degree drop on the Maverick to enjoying a ride on the Top Thrill Dragster, there is no shortage of exciting things to do here. 

Don’t worry, if adventure is not your thing, they have many other attractions for you to enjoy as well. 

You can enjoy a view of Lake Erie from Gatekeeper, indulge in games, and win some exciting prizes, or munch on the snacks and street food found here.

That’s not all, this amusement park also features one of the most popular waterparks – Soak City Park. 

Here, you can go on the water slides, have fun in the water pools, dump buckets, and more. 

Overall, if you are looking for the best family vacations in the Midwest, then one of the best things to do in Sandusky is spend a day at Cedar Point Amusement Park.

Mackinac Island Is A Midwest Attraction Located In Michigan

Another great midwestern United States attraction to explore on a weekend trip is Mackinac Island in Michigan.

Located in Lake Huron, Mackinac Island is one of the top Midwest tourist attractions where you can enjoy a serene environment along with gorgeous Victorian buildings. 

This is one of the more unique things to do in Michigan , and you can visit this Michigan attraction by boat or plane but do remember that there are no cars on the island. 

So, most of the time, you will be riding a horse-driven carriage or walking to explore the island. You can even rent bicycles if you love cycling. 

Although the island is only 5 miles long and 1 mile wide, there are a lot of fun things to do on Mackinac Island . 

You can go kayaking, hike in the Mackinac Island State Park, or go shopping in the historic downtown. 

If you are visiting in the summer, you can even book a sunset cruise here and enjoy the view of Lake Huron. 

Trust me, Mackinac Island is one of the top Midwest attractions that you must not miss. 

The Gateway Arch Is A Popular Attraction In The Midwest In Missouri

If you are looking for the most unique attractions in the Midwest USA, then the Gateway Arch in Missouri is a good choice. 

At 623 feet, this popular place to visit in Missouri is the tallest arch in the world. 

It was constructed between 1963 and 1965 and is the perfect place to enjoy the city views. 

You can take a tram ride to the top and enjoy the views of the Mississippi River from here as well. There are 1000+ stairs available as well to reach the top.

If you are scared of heights, there is a free museum under the monument where you can learn more about the Arch. 

As this is one of the popular tourist attractions in the midwest United States, the tickets sell out soon.

So, it is recommended that you buy it in advance. 

If you are looking for a bucket list experience, then the Gateway Arch is the perfect Midwest attraction to visit.

Willis Tower Skydeck and Ledge

If you want to add the best Midwest tourist attractions to your itinerary, then don’t forget to check out the Willis Tower Skydeck and Ledge in Illinois.

One of the top things to do in Chicago , the Skydeck is located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. 

It offers the best view across the four states and Lake Michigan. 

For the daring, the Ledge glass box at 1,353 feet height is the best way to enjoy the city and nearby views.

This is one of the best tourist attractions in the Midwest for photography enthusiasts as well.

Since it’s a popular spot to visit when vacationing in the Midwest, make sure to book your tickets in advance. 

Look Here For Advanced Tickets: Willis Tower and Skydeck Ledge

You can also visit the Chicago exhibit at the Skydeck to learn more about the history of this city. 

The Chicago Skydeck is one of the top Midwest attractions to visit and should be certainly a part of your Chicago itinerary.  

Mount Rushmore National Memorial

One of the top things to do in South Dakota is visit Mount Rushmore. 

Here, you can find the 60-foot faces of former US Presidents such as George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Theodore Roosevelt, and Thomas Jefferson.

Another one of the best attractions in the Midwest, Mount Rushmore National Memorial is one of the unforgettable things to do in the Black Hills SD.

This memorial was built from 1927 to 1941 and is now one of the most popular landmarks in the Midwest.

Visitors can join a guided ranger program, visit the Borglum Visitor Center, or hike on the scenic Presidential Trail. 

There is no shortage of fun things to do in Mount Rushmore , making it the best vacation spot in the Midwest USA. 

Overall, this is one of the bucket list Midwest attractions that you must visit. 

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore

Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most popular places to visit in Indiana .

This midwestern United States attraction offers 15 miles of sandy beaches where you can sunbathe or explore around. 

This is one of the best vacation spots in the Midwest throughout the year. 

There are a wide range of activities to enjoy here, depending on when you visit. 

In the summer, visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, hiking, and camping at this national park in the Midwest USA.

For those visiting in winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are a great way to enjoy this place. 

Also, don’t miss out on sunsets on Lake Michigan. They are truly spectacular. 

So, if you are looking for the best Midwest attractions for a vacation, then Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is perfect. 

The Cave Of The Mounds

If you are searching for the best places to visit in the Midwest, then you should check out the Cave of the Mounds.

Taking a tour of this National Landmark is one of the top things to do in Wisconsin . 

Under the ground, there is a limestone cave system that was discovered in 1939. 

Earlier, it was going to be used as a limestone quarry but after this discovery, it was turned into a tourist attraction.

The caves were opened to visitors in 1940 and it has become one of the top Midwest attractions since then. 

As the limestone cave system is a rarity in the geological world, it is also protected by the National Park Service. 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cave transports you to prehistoric times and is one of the best vacation spots in the Midwest.

The Mall of America

When vacationing in the Midwest, one of the best things to do in Minnesota is shop at the Mall of America.

This is the largest shopping mall in the country and is located in Bloomington. 

Opened in 1992, the mall features over 500 retail shops and receives millions of visitors every year. 

From clothing to food, to electronics, you can find it all here. You can say it’s a real-life Amazon where you can shop for anything and everything.

Expect to walk a lot inside this mall due to its size. 

Apart from that, they also have an indoor theme park to keep the visitors entertained. 

Plus, several events such as celebrity visits, concerts, etc. are held at this shopping mall throughout the year.

Trust me, this is one of the top Midwest attractions that you must visit in Minnesota.

A Midwest Attraction In Iowa Not To Miss Is The Grotto Of The Redemption

One of the top things to do in Iowa is visit the Shrine of Grotto of Redemption in West Bend, Iowa. 

This shrine was built by Father Paul Dobberstein, a German immigrant.

He built it in honor of the Virgin Mary who he prayed to when suffering from pneumonia.

It is one of the largest grottos in the world and is made from a large collection of minerals, fossils, shells, etc.

Although the construction was started in 1912, the grotto was completed in 1954. 

The grotto depicts several scenes from Jesus’ life, making it a religious site as well. 

CarhengIe One Of The Unique Attractions In The Midwest

One of the weirdest landmarks in the midwest USA, Carhenge is one of the top things to do in Nebraska . 

This hidden gem in the Midwest uses vintage cars to imitate Stonehenge in England. 

The attraction was created by an artist named Jim Reindeers. 

He made it as a tribute to his father on his farmland. 

At the site, you will find 39 cars stacked on top of each other to resemble the Stonehenge structure. 

Whether you love visiting unique Midwest attractions or wish to take quirky photos, Carhenge is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest United States. 

Fargo Air Museum

For airplane aficionados, one of the top things to do in North Dakota is visit the Fargo Air Museum.

Located at the Hector International Airport, Fargo Air Museum features several historical aircraft which will interest both adults and kids alike.

One of the best things to do in the Midwest USA is learn about the aviation industry at Fargo Air Museum. 

Plus, you can even enroll your kids in the Aviation Camp here to develop their interest in the aviation field. 

You can see several functional aircraft here that were previously used in WWII. 

Douglas DC-3, P-51D Mustang, etc. are a few worth mentioning. 

That’s not all, there is also a full-scale replica of the 1900s Wright Brothers’ aircraft here. 

This is why Fargo Air Museum is one of the top Midwest attractions that you can make a part of your Midwestern vacations.

And one of the best things to do in Fargo ND.

Badlands National Park Is A Midwest Attraction In South Dakota

Are you looking for the best weekend getaways in the Midwest USA?

Visiting Badlands National Park is one of the memorable things to do in South Dakota.

Badlands National Park is one of the perfect Midwest attractions to consider. 

This national park features 200,000 acres of deep canyons, rugged mountains, and prairies for you to explore.

For mountain lovers, there are lots of spectacular Midwest hiking opportunities available here. 

Plus, you can also camp and enjoy the starlit sky at night in this national park in South Dakota. 

A few of the best hiking trails to explore here are Fossil Exhibit Trail, Castle Trail, and so on.

Also, you can observe many animals here such as bighorn sheep, elk, black-footed ferrets, and more.

Chalk Pyramids In Kansas Is An Attraction In The Midwest Not To Miss

Kansas is a unique state in Midwest USA which is home to 8 Wonders including the famous Monument Rocks, a.k.a the Chalk Pyramids.

Monument Rocks in Oakley stand over 70 feet high and is one of the top things to do in Kansas .

It also happens to be the first national landmark in the USA and many consider them to be nature’s Stonehenge. 

Definitely one of the most amazing midwest landmarks, these Chalk Pyramids are believed to have formed 80 million years ago, when the area was underwater.

Trust me, this is one of the best Midwest vacations that you can take on a short weekend. 

Lewis and Clark Caverns Park

Montana offers some of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest and Lewis and Clark Caverns Park is one of the top places to visit in Montana. 

This cave in Whitehall Montana is one of the largest limestone caves in the world.

As a result, the only way to experience its magnificence is through a guided tour.

There are three tour options available in summer while visitors can enjoy the special Winter Holiday Candlelight Tour in the colder season. 

Outside the cave, the park features several hiking trails and an interpretive visitor center. 

You can also camp here in tipis, cabins, or tents and make it one of the best family vacations in the midwest USA.

Route 66 Museum

One of the top things to do in the Midwest is enjoy a road trip on Route 66 and make stops along the way. 

Although Route 66 runs from Chicago to Los Angeles, the longest stretch lies in Oklahoma. 

This is why one of the best things to do in Oklahoma is drive on Route 66 and explore attractions such as Route 66 Museum, National Route 66 and Transportation Museum, and more.

The Oklahoma Route 66 Museum is one of the top Midwest landmarks that you cannot miss.

This attraction in Clinton teaches you about this route’s history with the 1950s diner and changing exhibits. 

If you are looking for the best Midwest vacations, then Route 66 Museum is a great addition to your road trip through Midwest United States. 

For more information read the best Route 66 Attractions for your bucket list!

Packing List When Visiting Attractions In The Midwest

Whether you will be traveling 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 as 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.

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.

And here are the carbon filter replacements.

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. 

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• Cincinnati, Ohio

Go Underground (Literally) and Discover the Coolest Things to Do in Cincinnati

Here's your in-the-know guide to the Queen City's best-kept secrets, like cocktails in an underground tunnel, pop-up dance parties, an Airbnb with a giant swing, and viral pasta dinners.

Julia Sayers Gokhale is the Senior Travel Editor at Midwest Living, where she specializes in traveling the Midwest and sharing its fascinating stories. Based in Des Moines, Iowa, Julia is an avid traveler who has visited more than 25 countries and almost all 50 states. She has spent the last 12 years of her career working across print and digital publications, primarily covering travel, food and lifestyle.

• Literally Underground!
• Cool Drink Spots
• Great Restaurants
• The Hottest Table in Town
• Off-the-Beaten Path Attractions
• An Up-and-Coming Neighborhood
• Fun Pop-Ups for Food and Culture

A softly lit purple globe in an alley in the Over-the-Rhine neighborhood is the only signal that we’ve found our destination. We check in and take the stairs, down, down, down four stories underground, emerging from behind a velvet curtain into a cavernous arched space. A jazz band sways on stage while patrons nuzzle into blue velvet booths, martinis in hand. Finding Ghost Baby cocktail lounge feels like stumbling into Cincinnati’s greatest secret—though it’s not the only one.

In the 1800s, German brewers stashed beer in stone caverns far below the city. Today, with the exception of Ghost Baby, many of those tunnels have long been forgotten. Instead, a different type of underground energy hums through the city. A pasta pop-up-turned-restaurant that was the most anticipated opening of 2024. Block-long lines for weekend-only Filipino breakfast sandwiches. Black and queer femme-led DJ dance parties. Galleries inside Airbnbs. An undercurrent of creativity and passion, rising up to meet those who seek it.

Cincinnati claims a lot of things—great beer, pro sports, controversial chili ( more about that here )—but more lies under the surface, waiting to be discovered. Here are the best secret, under-the-radar and in-the-know things you can do in Cincinnati.

Spend a Day Underground

Miles of tunnels lurk beneath the streets, but you’ll need to book a spot with American Legacy Tours to see them. The Ultimate Queen City Underground Tour begins with a walk through Over-the-Rhine, once a hub for German brewers. (In the 1800s, there were more than 1,840 drinking establishments in OTR. Temperance activist Carrie Nation famously remarked, “I will die of exhaustion before I get through one block here.”) You’ll spend time aboveground with the notable Italianate architecture before descending 30-some feet under bedrock into the tunnels, which were used to keep beer cool before refrigeration. Many of the tunnels were sealed in the early 1900s and rediscovered in the 2000s; it’s the largest collection of pre-Prohibition brewing architecture in the country.

After the tour, wander a block over to find Ghost Baby. The naming origin story? A construction worker was on a ladder in the tunnel when he turned and saw a ghostly baby climbing up the other side. He hightailed it out of there, but the only ghost you’ll see is the one frozen into the bar’s ice cubes.

Conclude the theme with dinner at Sotto , which means “under” in Italian. Settle into the rustic moody vibes at this basement restaurant known for handmade pastas. The short rib cappellacci never leaves the menu—the pasta-maker estimates he’s rolled more than 1 million in his time there.

Seek Out a Cool Spot to Drink

Lost and found otr.

When you find this tucked-away bar , you’ll also find vibrant art, a glittery bubblegum vodka drink called Disco Tits and a delectable olive oil-dripped chocolate-bourbon budino.

Black Coffee Lounge

Works by local artists fill the walls at this Black-owned and -celebrated coffee shop from Marcus Ervin and Means Cameron—who also run the neighboring boutique, Black-Owned. Sip your coffee straight (from the signature Wokeanda blend) or try a lavender latte.

Hart and Cru Wine Bar

Ask owner and sommelier Kevin Hart for a wine recommendation at this intimate Pendleton spot , and he might climb the ladder to pull a bottle from the library-esque shelves. The wine bar often hosts chef pop-ups.

Find a New Favorite Food

What started as a food truck with a cult following now slings Mexico City-style street tacos out of a downtown brick-and-mortar .

Abigail Street

The berbere broccoli with a miso-tahini sauce is one of the best bites in the city. Order several of the generous share plates at this North African-and Mediterranean-inspired restaurant , and don’t skip the baharat-spiced short ribs or seasonal hummus.

Cafe Mochiko

This Asian American cafe in East Walnut Hills sells must-try pastries like giant croissants stuffed with fluffy ube cream and a sweet-savory corn bibingka (rice cake) topped with white cheddar. Dinner is also fab, especially when the cafe runs its Cincinnati chili ramen special.

Alcove by MadTree

Find a bright greenhouse-like space inside the building that housed the old Henry Wielert saloon, where the idea for the MLB World Series was born. Try an Oktoberfest beer with farm-to-table cuisine.

Want to be really in the know? There's an 8-seat speakeasy omakase experience hidden in a downtown alley. Walk-ins aren't allowed, so be sure to reserve in advance .

Book a Seat at the Hottest Table in Town

David Jackman has an impressive resume. Sous chef of The Catbird Seat in Nashville. Shadowing expert foragers in Vancouver. Working at Michelin-starred restaurants in New York. And for the past two years, running one of Cincinnati’s hottest pop-ups: inventive pasta-centric dinners that drew national attention and led to the opening of his brick-and- mortar restaurant in OTR in mid-2024. But don’t expect Italian classics at Wildweed . Jackman traipses through the woods of Cincinnati’s suburbs, hunting down mushrooms to stuff into his carefully formed pastas or drying them to use in an umami-packed vegan XO sauce. He riffs on Midwest favorites, crafting a pasta salad of mortadella and Mimolette cheese. He serves appetizers of bright tuna crudo with tomato raisins, and blends chicory and brisket into main courses. The opening of his restaurant puts down roots, marking both the conclusion and the beginning of a great journey.

David Jackman

Wildweed is the expression of using wild-crafted ingredients, grown from little cracks and weeds—like us. We’re not rooted here, but we grew like a weed here, and we’ve taken over in a large way. Initially our pop-up was just for extra money; we weren’t trying to create a restaurant, but it grew naturally. It’s still high-end dining, really careful food, but I’m creating an environment where we all want to be.

Visit Off-the-Beaten Path Attractions (and Learn Secrets About Popular Ones)

Lucky cat museum.

This quirky museum boasts a collection of more than 2,000 beckoning Lucky Cats from around the world. Tucked inside Essex Studios, the museum is free but open by appointment only. (Make a reservation online.)

Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum

Locals will tell you Spring Grove is one of the prettiest places in the city to take a walk, especially in fall. A mausoleum, a chapel, several ponds and stately trees fill the grounds.

Krohn Conservatory

In October, look for the annual bonsai show at this quiet conservatory in Eden Park. Wander lush tropical gardens and arid deserts.

Washington Park

There was once a graveyard under this central spot in OTR ; the resting souls were relocated and the park is now a popular gathering space with a farmers market, museums and the historic Music Hall (home to the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra ).

Explore an Up-and-Coming Neighborhood

Julia Sayers Gokhale

Conscious of their working-class community, creatives bring fresh energy to Camp Washington, a north-side neighborhood. Book a stay at the Swing House , where a swing hangs from the three-story ceiling. It’s fun, yes, but it’s also a statement from artist Mark de Jong: “Time is a theme that shows up in my work. This house represents the past; the swing is a pendulum.” A gallery of more of de Jong’s work hides in the basement. The Airbnb (and his new Stair House) is open to the public each second Saturday for free tours. Just down the street is Wave Pool , a nonprofit art gallery with rotating exhibits, classes and funding to support area artists.

Mom ’n ’Em was the first coffee shop in the neighborhood. When Tony and Austin Ferrari felt their course had run in San Francisco, they turned their attention toward home. Closing their Bay City coffeeshop, the brothers moved back to Cincinnati and purchased a historic Camp Washington home to turn into a welcoming, cozy space for the neighborhood. They opened their coffee shop, named in honor of their mom, on Mother’s Day in 2019. Now, they’ve got two locations (the other’s in Madisonville) and a roastery, and often host dinner pop-up series. “The day we opened, we had a line down the block,” says Tony Ferrari.

But staples still reign in this neighborhood, like 84-year-old Camp Washington Chili , where you can order the cinnamon-spiced meat sauce atop spaghetti 24 hours a day (except Sunday).

Tony and Austin Ferrari

In San Francisco, we were like plants stuck in a pot, with no way for our roots to get bigger. Here, we’re just trying to create a really consistent, easygoing cafe. We’re not trying to change the world. We want to eat locally, support our community and take care of our city.

Plan a Trip Around a Pop-Up

Essex studios artwalk.

Four times a year, 85 artist studios under one roof open their doors and throw a party . Drinks, snacks and live music fill the halls while folks can shop and admire art. Check the website for the next date.

Cackleberry

Expect a line even before China and Nate Kautz fire up their little trailer on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Fluffy egg breakfast sammies like the Lola and Lolo honor China’s Filipino grandparents with spam and longanisa (sweet sausage), while the Porter uses goetta, a very Cincy meat-and-oat sausage.

Warmth Culture

BIPOC DJs spin tunes at these monthly dance parties. Where the groove happens always changes, but one thing remains steady: an all-are-welcome environment in artsy, unexpected spaces. Find their next location on Instagram .

The Wheel in Oakley

The owners of Mom 'n 'Em love this take-out spot with hand-rolled pasta and focaccia, open Fridays and Saturdays.

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