One of the best things about visiting the Midwest is that since these states experience all four seasons, your trip will be unique each time. The Midwest's top tourist destinations include big cities like Chicago and Indianapolis, but some of the best getaways are in more sedate locales like Mackinac Island in Michigan or the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri.
You can think of destinations that offer simple sunsets and spring break getaways or areas that offer ski resorts and picturesque byways depending on what time of year you want to take a holiday. The fact that most Midwest cities are conveniently placed in the middle of the country makes traveling there much more convenient.
With the help of our list of the top Midwest vacations, pick the perfect destination.
1. Michigan's Mackinac Island
On Mackinac Island in Michigan, one of the most spectacular vacation experiences in the Midwest may be had. The absence of automobiles gives the island a peaceful beauty. Travelers arrive at the resorts via horse-drawn carriage and then navigate around on foot or by bicycle while they are there.
The island's Victorian-style homes and the stunning Grand Hotel, which is perched atop a hill, give it a feeling of classic vacation luxury.
You can put your watch away and feel at ease on vacation time after taking the ferry from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island across Lake Huron. Whether you spend your day hiking through the Mackinac Island State Park, kayaking along the shoreline and past Arch Rock, or simply lounging in an Adirondack chair to watch the sun go down, your vacation starts there.
A horseback ride around the island and a trip to Fort Mackinac, a former military outpost, are two options for adding tourism to a few days. The island's best adventures can be had by simply wandering around by yourself, through the meticulously maintained gardens and the lilac trees. On the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry, you can reserve a sunset or fireworks cruise throughout the summer weekends.
2. Chicago, Illinois
Because there are so many things to do, the wonderful city of Chicago in Illinois is one of the top vacation places in the Midwest. Culture, music, the arts, and of course that infamous deep dish pizza are all abundant in the Windy City. Every day of your trip might have a different theme that highlights the best of Chicago.
Millennium Park and Navy Pier are two of the best locations to see when on vacation in Chicago. Grant Park, where you might attend a summertime music or festival while you're there, includes Millennium Park. There is a lot to see at the historic Navy Pier, including restaurants, parks, and a performing arts center. One of the greatest ways to see the city is to ride the 150-foot Ferris wheel. The Chicago Children's Museum, which is situated at Navy Pier, will appeal to children if this is a family vacation.
Plan a day trip to the Art Institute of Chicago and a live performance at one of the city's theaters, such as the Chicago Theatre, CIBC Theatre, or Cadillac Palace Theatre, to experience the city's vibrant arts scene.
Without some time spent shopping on Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile, a trip to Chicago would not be complete. Visiting the premium stores and retailers makes for a thrilling day filled with new purchases for your shopping bags.
Add a day of exploration to 360 and the Field Museum, two of Chicago's most ambitious attractions. The John Hancock Building's 94th level is home to Chicago, which is not recommended for individuals who are terrified of heights. With a tilt feature that raises you 1,000 feet above the Chicago skyline, the observation deck offers a fantastic perspective of the city.
The other skyscraper destination worth seeing is the SkyDeck at the Willis Tower. You will be 1,353 feet in the air and have a view of the surrounding area for about 50 miles as you ascend to the SkyDeck on the 103rd floor of what once held the record for highest office skyscraper in the world.
3. The Wisconsin county of Door
Due to the diversity of things to do and the number of towns that you can visit in a short amount of time, the Door County peninsula in Wisconsin, often known as the "thumb" of the state, is one of the greatest vacation ideas in the Midwest. Door County's 66-mile peninsula, which is flanked by Green Bay and Lake Michigan on two sides, contains 19 small villages scattered around it.
Staying in a spot like Egg Harbor or Sister Bay allows you to spend your vacation days visiting nearby areas to view the family-run cherry orchards, biking, or riding the Door County Trolley to see some of the region's top attractions. In one of Door County's five state parks, hikers can spend their entire day. Peninsula State Park is one of the nicest and largest.
With more than 300 miles of shoreline, the water is a big lure in Door County. Set aside a few days to explore some of the beaches and kayaking options, where you may discover shipwrecks and sea caves.
Take the ferry to Washington Island for a delightful day trip to explore the lavender fields and Schoolhouse Beach with its distinctive all-rock beach.
4. Ohio's Put-in-Bay
Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Ohio is among the top places to go for a spring break in the Midwest. One of the best escapes in the Midwest is the island, which is located in Lake Erie off the coast of northern Ohio. Every year, spring breakers from Sandusky or Port Clinton board the Jet Express boat and travel to the island, which is small but packed with entertainment.
For the younger crowd, the social scene in Put-in-Bay will probably be the main focus of your holiday. In the town's heart, there is a collection of eateries and attractions where tourists assemble.
The area around the South Bass Island state park on the other side of the island becomes quieter as you get away from the main road. You can hire kayaks and Jet Skis to explore Lake Erie's waters, or you can just relax and unwind, which is what the majority of guests do.
There are many activities for families at Put-in-Bay as well. It's advisable to take the Tour Train around the island first to get the lay of the land. The Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and Perry's Cave Family Fun Center are just a couple of the main attractions that you may see while on the train and can be accessed whenever you wish.
5. Kansas City,
If you want to maximize your vacation dollar, a trip to Kansas City is among the greatest options. It is feasible to visit both Missouri and Kansas on the same trip because the city lies on the border of both states.
Start in Missouri with some of Kansas City's top attractions, including free events like those at the Crown Center, which houses fantastic dining and shopping and serves as the global home for Hallmark Cards.
Make your way to the Money Museum, which features interactive displays such as a 27-pound gold bar, and is also free. Discover why Kansas City is referred to as the "City of Fountains" by exploring the city and seeing how many of the 200 fountains you can find. Be sure to see the world-famous Kansas City BBQ, a jazz concert, and a Kansas City Chiefs football game starring the 2020 Super Champions while you are in Missouri.
You can spend a day trip or many days exploring the top sights on this side of the river in Kansas. A must-do at the Kansas City Speedway is to see a NASCAR race or participate in the Richard Petty Driving Experience. The Zip KC Zip Line Park, an adventure park offering zipline tours, can be visited on a different day. A entertaining and instructive dining experience, the T-Rex Café may round off your brief trip to Kansas.
6. Ski Resorts in South Dakota
Consider some of the ski resorts in South Dakota if a Midwest winter getaway is what you're after. Many winter visitors travel to the Black Hills' Terry Peak Ski Area, which is a family-friendly resort area close to Lead and Deadwood. There are 29 trails total, including a terrain park, for all ski levels. In the deep pine trees, there are also cross-country ski tracks.
Another choice is Great Bear Ski Valley, which is close to Sioux Falls. The park offers skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter and is a year-round recreation area. There are groomed cross-country skiing and snowshoeing paths, a family tubing facility, and 14 downhill skiing trails. All you have to do is show up; rentals and lessons are provided.
In the winter, South Dakota is fantastic for activities besides downhill skiing. With more than 1,500 miles of trails, it is one of the best spots in the country to go snowmobiling. There are accommodations and 350 miles of groomed snowmobile trails just outside Spearfish.
7. The Wisconsin Dells
Due to its attractions, the Wisconsin Dells is one of the top family destinations in the Midwest and is known as the water park capital of the world. It is wonderful to take a trip to one of these resorts where you have the option of staying in or going out because they include top water parks like Kalahari, Noah's Ark Water Park, and Great Wolf Lodge.
A trip to the Wisconsin Dells is the kind of out-of-the-ordinary Midwest getaway that leaves lasting memories. One such experience is riding in the Original Wisconsin Ducks, which travel both on land and in the water.
Family-friendly tourist destinations in Wisconsin Dells include the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater and illusion show as well as the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum.
Spend at least one day outside in the Wisconsin Deer Park or go hiking and ziplining close to Lake Delton to take advantage of some of the Wisconsin Dells' natural attractions.
8. St. Louis, Mo
Make plans to travel Missouri's Route 66 through St. Louis. Along the renowned highway, you will pass by the well-known St. Louis Gateway Arch and other historical monuments. Spend a few days exploring some of the drive-ins, diners, gas stations, and vintage signs that can be found along the St. Louis stretch of Route 66.
Discovering the different Route 66 routes that pass through the city will add to the adventure. You can stay in the city for the remainder of your trip and visit some of its top attractions, like the City Museum and the Missouri Botanical Garden.
get to wake up, swim poolside, and tan every morning
— gainzy (@gainzy222) September 26, 2021
wild cuz im used to waking up in a dingy dark condo on the midwest where it’s cold like 9/12 months
now life is like a literal permanent vacation, it’s still surreal
guess ive got a lot to be thankful for
:DDD pic.twitter.com/6w2mmcz0uB
The Forest Park region, where many of the attractions are free, is worth several days of exploration. The St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, and City Art Museum are all located in the park.
Plan a night at Busch Stadium to watch a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game if you're going on a summer vacation.
9. Indy, Indiana,
Indianapolis, the capital of Indiana, is one of the greatest Midwest vacation destinations due to its vibrant vibe and abundance of things to do.
The Children's Museum of Indianapolis, the biggest children's museum in the world with exhibits ranging from dinosaurs to an interactive Sports Legends Experience, is sure to be the focal point of family trips.
Couples visiting Indianapolis for a vacation will appreciate the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. The best times to go are during the springtime Indy 500 events, but even then, the speedway offers year-round attractions including a museum and other races.
Despite the fact that you can pack your schedule with activities, you should consider scheduling some downtime to take advantage of White River State Park, a sizable green park in the midst of the city that has a three-mile walking route, stores, and restaurants.
You can kayak, walk, fish, and zipline at Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve if you need a bit extra time in nature. The park also includes a golf course.
10. Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks
One of the Midwest's top outdoor tourist destinations is Missouri's Lake of the Ozarks. You will be surrounded by water and forest if you stay in one of the local resorts or cabins, and you can fill your days with a variety of outdoor activities.
The largest state park in Missouri is Lake of the Ozarks, with 85 miles of shoreline, multiple public beaches, hiking, bird-watching, biking, and boating opportunities.
One or more of the four cave systems in the Lake of the Ozarks—Bridal Cave, Stark Caverns, Ozark Caverns, and Jacob's Cave—can be explored over the course of a few days. There are thousands of caves in the area, but only a small number of them have been made safe for walking.
There are three golf courses located around the lake if you wish to play a beautiful round. You may watch a show at the Ozarks Amphitheater for a pleasant evening out before the campfire and stargazing, which provides a nice entertainment option while enjoying Missouri's beautiful outdoor setting.
11. Michigan's Traverse City
A trip to Traverse City, Michigan, is ideal for those seeking a genuine escape. It is a relaxed location with golf courses, spas, and winding back roads. Spend some time admiring the opulent resorts and the picturesque surroundings close to Grand Traverse Bay before venturing outside to take use of the area's natural outdoor playgrounds.
Spend the day in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore hiking the well-known dunes or swimming in Lake Michigan. You should spend an additional day in downtown Traverse City so that you can browse the charming art galleries, tiny boutiques, and antique stores.
Plan to spend a few nights in Traverse City taking in the breathtaking Lake Michigan sunsets while eating farm-to-table cuisine at one of the waterfront eateries.
12. Duluth, Minnesota,
Duluth, Minnesota, a port city on Lake Superior, makes for an excellent Midwest vacation since it combines the best of the Great Lakes with beautiful natural scenery and a quaint city.
If you want to spend time outdoors and are seeking for a more sedate retreat, a trip to Duluth is perfect. In the city, there are hundreds of miles of hiking trails and thousands of acres of parkland. As it follows Lake Superior's shoreline for 7.3 miles, the Lakewalk in downtown Duluth is a good spot to start.
Anglers can hire a guide to help them learn or improve their fly fishing skills while exploring one of the 16 authorized trout streams near Duluth. You can hire a paddleboard or fat bike to get out on the water, go on a guided kayak tour along the north and south coastlines, or do both. You should set aside some time on your schedule to visit Canal Park and observe the ships as they enter and exit the harbor.
You might wish to spend a day traveling along the Skyline Parkway, a 25-mile Scenic Byway with the greatest views of the city and Lake Superior, because the scenery in Duluth is so breathtaking. By pausing to take in the viewpoints and parks along the way, you can turn it into a day trip.
13. Rapid City and Mount Rushmore, South Dakota
One of the most famous American vacation destinations for locals and tourists from abroad is South Dakota's Mount Rushmore. A base in Rapid City would allow you to travel to Mount Rushmore, which is only around 20 miles away.
To make the most of your time, you should schedule one or more day trips to Mount Rushmore. With over two million people per year and a lot to see, the national park does necessitate some tourist planning.
The focal point of your trip will be the Mount Rushmore National Memorial, therefore it is worthwhile to start at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to gain a basic understanding of the monument's history, significance, and upkeep.
You can either self-guide your way through the region or attend one of the on-site ranger sessions. Plan your visit for May, September, or October, and aim to arrive before 9:30am or after 3:30pm to avoid excessive crowds.
Spend the remainder of your trip in Rapid City, where you can hike in the Black Hills National Forest, visit historic sites significant to Native American culture, and learn about the history of the Black Hills on a ride on the Black Hills Central Railroad.
Other tourist destinations in Rapid City include the Museum of Geology and a vibrant arts sector. To explore the City of Presidents and try to recognize some of the life-size bronze statues of American presidents, be sure to take a stroll through downtown.
14. Cleveland, Ohio,
For people who enjoy sports, music, the arts, and cities that have transformed former industrial regions into contemporary public and leisure spaces, Ohio's second-largest city, which is located on the beaches of Lake Erie, is a wonderful Midwest escape.
Some of Cleveland's most well-known sights, including the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, Cleveland Museum of Art, Great Lakes Science Center, and Cleveland Botanical Garden, are where a trip begins.
With so many teams calling Cleveland home, you can nearly always find sporting events taking place there. Be sure to pack your logo apparel for the enthusiasm that envelops the city on game days from professional sports like the Major League Baseball Cleveland Guardians, National Football League Cleveland Browns, and National Basketball Association Cleveland Cavaliers.
It is enjoyable to stroll through Cleveland's many ethnic districts and take in each one's unique culture. Start at the historic West Side Market, where more than 100 vendors are offering meats, cheese, baked goods, and specialized items inside a market building from the early 1900s.
There are several diverse neighborhoods in Cleveland to explore, including the Hispanic and Latino-populated Clark-Fulton neighborhood, Little Italy, and the Broadway-Slavic village. Visit the storied Arcade Cleveland for shopping, and the famous Warehouse District for a night out on the town with its array of eateries and nightlife.
15. Milwaukee, Wisconsin,
Once you find all of its hidden gems, Milwaukee is a city that is full of surprises, making it even more thrilling to visit. Take a stroll through the downtown area, the RiverWalk neighborhood, and the Historic Third Ward to begin your tour to Milwaukee.
The tiny cafés and the streets are where the social scene's heart is. Visit the Milwaukee Public Market, one of the busiest tourist destinations in the area, to get one-of-a-kind products like spices and presents.
A fun and whimsical stroll through town may be had by paying close attention to the sides of buildings and pedestrian areas across the city for an abundance of Instagram-worthy public art.
Make a point of visiting the stunning Milwaukee Art Museum, a well-known lakefront monument. The structure itself is a work of art, with a 90-foot-high glass vaulted ceiling that is shaped like wings.
Another must-see Milwaukee site is the Harley-Davidson Museum, which offers a journey through the history of this venerable American company. View the development of Harley-Davidson's more than 100-year history before stopping at the museum's Motor Restaurant for a filling supper.
The National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum, which is well worth an hour or two of your time, is just one of Milwaukee's eccentric attractions. Even if you don't know much about Milwaukee, you've probably heard the nickname "cheesehead" used to describe the city. It alludes to the recognizable cheesehead hat worn by Green Bay Packers supporters.
The Original Cheesehead Factory offers factory and production tours, but you may also just drop by the tiny shop to browse all of the cheesehead merchandize and try on the renowned foam hat.
Use the Milwaukee River, which flows through town, to your advantage by scheduling a kayak trip that also covers local history or taking a river boat at night to see the artistic and lighted city panorama from a different angle.
16. Amish Country in Ohio
The northern region of Ohio, home to the country's greatest concentration of Amish people, is a tranquil and unforgettable destination for Midwest holidays. A charming bed & breakfast in Millersburg, Charm, Berlin, Walnut Creek, or Sugarcreek in Holmes County is a wonderful place to stay.
Drive into the countryside to witness Amish families working in the fields and hanging laundry out to dry as you observe their slower way of life. Take your time, since Amish families traveling to the markets on horses and buggies will be sharing the road with you. The modest stores in Amish country that sell furniture, baskets, and baked foods are well known.
Depending on the time of year, you can travel around the numerous connected villages to observe the Swiss and German impact on this peaceful Amish community, harvest apples at nearby orchards, or arrange a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter on a family-run farm.
Visiting Heini's Cheese Chalet or one of the numerous neighboring cheese manufacturers that give tours and tastings is one of the most well-liked things to do in Amish Country. Make sure to arrive hungry because there will be plenty of food to sample as you discover one of the other delights of Amish Country. A must-see attraction in Walnut Creek is Walnut Creek Cheese. While it operates as a neighborhood grocery shop, it is a paradise for cheap bulk food purchases, including cheese and spices.
Any day other than Sunday is the best day to visit Amish country since they rigorously adhere to the day of rest and nothing is open.
17. Branson, Missouri
Most people undoubtedly associate Branson, Missouri, with its wealth of live performances. In the heart of the Ozarks, it provides for an interesting retreat and a fantastic family-friendly location. You may divide your time among the variety of things to do in Branson, from outdoor excursions to live events and attractions, to receive a well-rounded experience and a sense of the local culture.
More than 100 live entertainment alternatives are available in Branson, including comedy and dinner shows, vocal concerts, and special guest appearances by top performers. These options cater to all age groups.
One of Branson's biggest attractions is its bustling downtown, but you should also spend some time outside in the Ozark Mountains, which surround the city. You may sleep under the stars, trek hundreds of miles of trails, and fish at Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, or Lake Taneycomo.
The Silver Dollar City amusement park and the Highway 76 Entertainment District both provide a ton of family-friendly activities. With a variety of alternatives to fill your agenda and lodging in the vicinity that ranges from hotels and B&Bs to cabins, opulent resorts, and vacation apartments, Branson is a simple Midwest getaway.
18. Omaha, Nebraska,
A trip to Nebraska, where the allure of silence is its healing gift, is the best way to get away from it all if that is your desire. You can make Omaha your home base and organize day trips from there, or you can just stay and take advantage of the city's cultural offerings, popular tourist destinations, and hearty cuisine.
Consider dedicating a portion of your vacation to seeing all Omaha has to offer. Start at the Lauritzen Gardens, which features 100 acres of botanical gardens and specialty areas like a rose section and Victorian garden.
It makes sense to pick a couple of the historical landmarks and museums to provide some context for the area, such as The Durham Museum, which is housed inside Omaha's old railroad depot, and the Art Deco Joslyn Art Museum, whose outside and interior are decorated with marble from all over the world.
The 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge in Omaha, often referred to as "Bob," is a must-see because of the way it bobs as you cross it. Bob is a fun visit because it's the focal point of Omaha and unites Nebraska and Iowa, allowing you to stand in two states at once. Bob undoubtedly provides excellent images for social media.
Without taking advantage of Nebraska's incredible astronomy, your getaway wouldn't be complete. The closest location for stargazing is Zorinsky State Park, which has 1,000 acres of woodlands and dim lighting and is available all year long. Another spot is the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, which is only 30 minutes outside of Omaha and where you don't even need a telescope to see the bright constellations in the clear night skies.