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15 Great Midwest Winter Weekend Escapes

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

Don't let a snowy forecast stop you from setting aside time for a quick winter getaway. Head to the woods for a peaceful hike, curl up by the fire in a cozy cabin, or hit the town for some frosty window-shopping.

Door County, Wisconsin

Many people call Door County the Cape Cod of the Midwest, and that's no less true in winter , when snow covers the picturesque northeast Wisconsin peninsula. Bundle up for a wintry hike around Cave Point County Park . Shops, galleries and inns stay open for visitors who come for cozy shopping and peaceful walks along frozen Lake Michigan beaches. Sleigh rides, trolley tours and wine tastings round out a romantic weekend.

Parke County, Indiana

You won't find many other visitors in Indiana's covered bridge country when snow begins to fall—and that's the best reason of all to come here in winter. You'll have the picturesque historic bridges practically to yourself, making it easy to imagine you've stepped back in time. Pick up a map at the local visitors center.

Overnight at the Turkey Run State Park Inn, which has both a lodge and cabins set in 2,382 acres of woods and sandstone gorges.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

The Hocking Hills ' rock formations and caves become even more dramatic in winter, when snow settles on the damp rocks and bare trees, and water freezes into huge icicles.

At Glenlaurel Inn & Spa nearby, inventive food and plush cabins balance brisk hikes for a perfectly woodsy winter getaway. Guests retreat to nicely appointed, Scottish-theme cottages and rooms, some with hot tubs and some with two-person whirlpools. Meals are an occasion: Six- and seven-course dinners are served in the Manor House (where a bagpiper in full kilt dress pipes on the weekends).

Who needs Rockefeller Center when we have gorgeous Millennium Park and the Skating Ribbon in Maggie Daley Park right here in the Midwest? Ice-skating energizes both your mind and body . Bring skates or rent your own, and twirl around with the Chicago skyline as your backdrop. At Millennium Park, check out your reflection in "The Bean" sculpture, or catch the sales along Michigan Avenue.

Omaha, Nebraska

The opening of the Lauritzen Gardens' $21 million conservatory provided just one more way to ward off winter's chill in Omaha. At the Marjorie K. Daugherty Conservatory, take in the Tropical House, Temperate House and seasonal displays. Then head to the Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , where you can stay toasty in the Desert Dome, explore a rainforest at the indoor Lied Jungle or see colorful creatures at the aquarium. The city's excellent museums include the Durham Museum , with exhibits on history and science. (The Joslyn Art Museum , which wows with gorgeous Art Deco architecture, is scheduled to reopen in 2024 after an extensive expansion and renovation.) Shop and dine at downtown's charming Old Market area.

Black Hills, South Dakota

In the Black Hills, snowmobiles zip through landscapes so jaw-dropping you'd swear you were in one of the great western national parks. Head to the woods with a pair of rented cross-country skis, and swoosh through the snow-covered pines.

One snowmobile magnet is Spearfish Canyon Lodge , a classic log hideaway on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, where guests dine on dishes like butternut squash ravioli but still park sleds outside their rooms. For skiing and snowboarding, Terry Peak , the Midwest's highest downhill ski area, is about 20 miles south of Spearfish and offers multiple runs and lifts. There are plenty of zippy hills for beginners, too.

Old Mission Peninsula and Traverse City, Michigan

Even if you don't see the workers harvesting frozen Riesling grapes at Chateau Chantal , be sure to try the sweet ice wine the vintners will make from them. In winter, visitors like to duck in from the cold to sample wines at many of the Old Mission Peninsula's wineries, sipping warm reds and dry whites while watching the sun set over frozen Lake Michigan.

Traverse City , at the base of the peninsula, offers a variety of accommodations, including the luxurious Grand Traverse Resort and Spa , as well as winter activities such as cross-country skiing at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .

Brainerd, Minnesota

No matter how you like to travel in winter, Brainerd, Minnesota (about 2 hours north of Minneapolis), fills the bill. Go adventurous and try snowboarding at Mount Ski Gull , dog sledding at Cragun's Resort or cross-country skiing at Northland Arboretum or Boyd Lodge . Take it slower and stomp a path through new snow or ski on a frozen pond. Or, if you'd really rather just stay warm, browse the shops in Nisswa and Pequot Lakes. No matter what you do, also make sure to book a massage at the lovely Glacial Waters Spa at Grand View Lodge.

Bayfield, Wisconsin

Most people who trek north to tiny Bayfield, Wisconsin , in winter come for one thing: to see the magical Apostle Islands frozen in Lake Superior. Some years, the lake freezes hard enough for cars to drive out to Madeleine Island, and if the winter has been especially cold, hikers and skiers can explore the islands' sea caves by foot. Back on the mainland, book a cozy cabin at the Wild Rice Retreat or warm your toes by the wood-burning stoves at the elegant Old Rittenhouse Inn.

Branson, Missouri

Even in southern Missouri, snow and ice sometimes blanket the woods around Table Rock Lake, making the luxe cabins at Big Cedar Lodge perfect for those who prefer to sip hot chocolate and enjoy the winter landscape from the other side of a picture window.

If you care to venture outside your cozy lodging, Branson's entertainment still sparkles in December, when you can catch a show or spend a day at Silver Dollar City theme park. January and February are quieter, but the weather is often mild enough by Midwest standards (average highs in the 40s and 50s) to fish and golf; some of Branson's shows also continue through the winter.

Southwest Lake Michigan Shore

Every winter, lake-effect storms leave southwest Michigan's lighthouses and sand dunes cloaked in ice and snow. It's a stunning winter landscape, perfect for snowshoeing in Warren Woods State Park outside Three Oaks, Michigan; walking around Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore's famed dunes; and cross-country skiing in Love Creek County Park near Berrien Springs, Michigan.

Of course, the Lake Michigan shore in winter is also perfect for warming up over wine tasting at a vineyard .

Canoe Bay, Wisconsin

Looking for a romantic getaway with your sweetie? No kids allowed at Canoe Bay in northwest Wisconsin (outside Chetek, about two hours east of Minneapolis). Instead, you'll find the plushest-of-plush cabins and rooms, a gourmet restaurant and picture-perfect horse-drawn sleigh rides. Few sounds break the hushed winter spell of this 280-acre retreat surrounded by North Woods. A splurge? Yes, but you won't regret it.

Upper Peninsula, Michigan

You don't need to go to Alaska to experience dog sledding. The owners of Nature's Kennel Sled Dog Racing and Adventures on Michigan's Upper Peninsula are Iditarod veterans. Visitors can help "train" their pups by going on day and overnight mushing trips. Participants learn to drive their own sled, so bonding with your canine crew is inevitable. The half-day, full-day or overnight treks start in McMillan, Michigan, about 90 miles east of Marquette.

Outdoor adventures also abound at nearby Tahquamenon Falls State Park , with miles of trails for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

Lutsen Mountains, Minnesota

It's the largest downhill  ski resort  in the Midwest—and the region's only true mountain ski experience, some say. Four interconnected North Shore peaks (Eagle, Ullr, Mystery and Moose) power 90-plus runs spread across 1,000 acres overlooking Lake Superior. It's not all about downhill skiing, though. There's cross- country, snowboarding and snowmobiling too. And you can ride the red  Summit Express Gondola  to the summit of Moose Mountain year-round.

Crystal Mountain, Michigan

Founded in 1956 as a community ski area, Crystal Mountain (28 miles southwest of Traverse City) has become a destination for healthful, pampering getaways. Guests ski, sample the spa menu at the Thistle Pub and Grille, and hit the we've-thought-of-everything 11,000-square-foot Crystal Spa. Alpine village-style lodging ranges from basic hotel rooms to five-bedroom mountaintop townhomes, where guests can ski out their back doors.

Related Articles

October 9, 2023

Looking for the best winter vacation ideas in the Midwest? From cross-country ski vacations to cozy small towns, here are the best places to visit in the Midwest in the winter:

18 Midwest Winter Vacation Ideas:

Travel in the midwest doesn’t have to stop when the snow starts! Here are the best Midwest Winter vacation ideas:

why me? Hi there! I’m Maddy. I was born and raised in Michigan and grew up on summers on the Great Lakes. Today, I work as a freelance writer and career outdoors guide, and have been lucky to have adventured some incredible places throughout the Midwest. Anyways, this article was written by me, a person who has lived in and cares about these places very much, not a computer program!

Note: This article contains affiliate links! This means if you make a purchase based on my recommendation, I make a small kickback at no additional cost to you.

What to pack for a Midwest Winter Vacation:

Winters in the Midwest can be very cold! Make sure you pack for the weather. You’ll want…

• Wool baselayers: after several years of winter hiking in the Midwest and working as a Lake Superior/Pacific Ocean overnight sea kayaking guide I’ve found Smartwool makes some of the best baselayers in terms of warmth and longevity. For winter hiking, a classic midweight crew works well along with thermal bottoms of a similar weight. If wool doesn’t work for you, check out Patagonia’s Capilene lin e .
• Fleece mid layers: fleece works as an excellent midlayer for winter hiking, skiing, or any winter activity! You can find excellent fleeces at most thrift stores.
• Cute sweaters: I love to wear fun wool sweaters when exploring in the winter. I make some of my own sweaters ( click here for available pieces ), or Dale of Norway makes incredible quality beautiful sweaters as well.
• Flexible pants: I wear a pair of Fjallraven Keb Trousers as an outer layer for winter hiking and most outdoor winter activities.
• Warm puffy jackets: having a warm jacket for winter travel in the Midwest is a must! I have Patagonia’s DAS jacket for extra cold trips or trips where I will not be as active. For hiking or more middle of the road cold trips (above zero), I have a Helly Hansen thinner puffy.
• Winter Hiking Boots: I’m honestly still looking for the perfect winter hiking boot. I have a pair of Oboz Sapphire Insulated, and they’re pretty good, but I’m not in love with them the way that my hiking boots can do no wrong. I’ve also had Danner winter hikers, and they were also just okay.
• Spikes to hike in: For most trails that see lots of traffic, you wont need snowshoes, invest in microspikes instead! Trails are more likely to be packed snow and ice from foot traffic than feet of fresh powder.
• Snowshoes: if you do plan on breaking trail, try out some Crescent Moon snowshoes .
• Mittens: I like to make my own wool, Norwegian- inspired mittens! Check here for availability.
• Midwest Adventure eBook Bundle : Download for a complete & detailed guide to exploring the Great Lakes Region!

1) Sisu & Loyly Sauna & Cross Country Ski

Looking for the coziest Midwest winter vacation? Head up to snowy Grand Marais, Minnesota for a cross country ski and sauna trip. 

Ski the beautiful Pincushion Mountain Trails overlooking the beautiful small town below, then after be sure to hit the beautiful Sisu and Loyly Sauna on Lake Superior. Remember to pick up your Great Minnesota Ski Pass .

2) Snowshoe the Sleeping Bear Dunes

For a cozy and unique winter vacation destination, head to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. 

Tackle the legendary Dune Climb hike with snowshoes. Known in the summer as one of the most difficult hikes in Michigan for the heat and difficult terrain over loose sand, snowshoeing the Dune Climb is comparatively a cake walk. 

You’re likely to have this adventure mostly to yourself, and will be rewarded with sweeping views of the dunes and Lake Michigan below. Alternately, snowshoe or ski the P ierce-Stocking Scenic Drive for a longer and more difficult adventure. After your adventuring, head to Joe’s Friendly Tavern for a warm up. 

Note: the popular Empire Bluffs trail is not plowed or easily accessible in the winter. Do not attempt to reach.

Looking to explore Michigan this winter? Check out the best winter adventures in Michigan!

3) visit the pictured rocks ice climbing festival.

Head out to the Michigan Ice Fest to take an ice climbing class ranging from beginner, to master located in the Pictured Rocks backcountry. Alternately, take a guided ice climbing tour.  

Stay in Munising, Michigan, and enjoy the local breweries and cross country ski trails when you’re not climbing. Not interested in climbing, but want to learn more about it? Attend one of the guest speaker presentations. 

4) Visit Bayfield, WI

Known for it’s incredible ice caves that are only accessible in the coldest winters, Bayfield, WI is one of the most magical winter destinations in the Midwest.

What visiting the apostle islands in the summer can look like!

While hiking to the ice caves has not been possible in the National Park in recent years, there is still plenty to do in Bayfield! Cozy up at the Rittenhouse Inn , and hike above the Myers Beach sea caves on the Lakeshore Trail. Grab a bite to eat at Mannypenny Bistro, and remember to keep your eyes peeled for the Northern Lights. 

Check out the best things to do in Bayfield in the Winter

5) hit the town in duluth, minnesota.

One of the best places to visit in the Midwest in the winter is the city of Duluth Minnesota. Check out the Bentleyville Christmas lights, or visit the Gleensheen Mansion. For nearby cross country skiing, check out the beautiful Lester Park trails . 

Check out the 16 Best Hiking Trails near Duluth, Minnesota

6) watch dogsled races on the gunflint trail.

Looking for one of the most adventurous winter destinations in the Midwest? Look no further than Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail. This road stretches deep into the adjacent Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, and is the perfect place for a winter adventure!

Stay at the beautiful Gunflint Lodge, with views of Canada across the lake and occasional Northern Lights displays. Head to the unique Poplar Haus for some of the most delicious food in the Midwest. Be sure to time your visit with the Gunflint Mail Run and spectate at one of the most fun dogsled races in the North!

The Gunflint Trail is plowed in the winter, but drive with care; cell service may be unreliable. 

Wondering where you can book your own dogsled tour? Check out Points Unknown in Hovland, Minnesota!

7) Skiing and Brews in Bellaire, Michigan

Love craft drinks, skiing, and snow? Head to Bellaire, Michigan for one of the best Midwest winter destinations for skiing & craft beer. The Bellaire area sees one of the highest snowfall totals in Lower Michigan, making it the perfect place to spend a winter vacation!

Stay at one of the nearby ski resorts like Shanty Creek or Boyne Mountain , then spend your evenings in downtown Bellaire visiting Short’s Brewery , one of Michigan’s finest! Not a beer drinker? No worries! Tiny downtown Bellaire also has a wine bar, cider bar, and distillery all within easy barhopping distance. 

Looking for more on Bellaire, Michigan? Check out the 17 Best Things to Do in Bellaire, Michigan

8) Hike Saugatuck Dunes State Park

One of Michigan’s most beautiful summer destinations is Saugatauk Dunes State Park , but did you know this park is just as beautiful in the winter? 

Strap on snowshoes and head out into the dunes to watch the ice form on Lake Michigan. Remember to never venture out on to shore ice on the Great Lakes! This ice is incredibly unstable, full of holes, and there are many rescues or recoveries every year. 

9) Head to Hocking Hills, Ohio

Ohio’s Hocking Hills is one of the most beautiful winter vacation spots in the Midwest. Hike to frozen waterfalls, explore caves with ice, and enjoy many of the unique cabin stays in the area! Stay at Glenlaurel Scottish Inn and Cottages and ski their cross country trails. Alternately, stay in one of the Hocking Hills Treehouse cabins. Be sure to hike to the incredible Ash Cave and to beautiful Cedar Falls .

Hocking Hills might be the best place to visit in the Midwest in the winter!

10) Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Looking for a unique winter destination at the edge of the Midwest? Head out to Medora, North Dakota and venture into the badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park. 

Here you can watch the wild horses frolic in the snow and backcountry ski the frozen Little Missouri River then return to Medora for dinner and drinks!

Visiting Theodore Roosevelt National Park in the summer

11) Chase the Northern Lights in Northern Michigan

Did you know the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is one of the best place to see the Northern Lights in the Midwest? Head up to the shores of Lake Superior to enjoy unobstructed views to the North and bundle up to watch for the Northern Lights!

Northern Lights are most common near the equinoxes, making March a great time to chase the Northern Lights! Keep in mind that while the Northern Lights are relatively common in Northern Michigan, they are still overall fairly uncommon, with the most incredible shows happening only a few times a year. 

12) Visit Grand Marais, Minnesota

Looking for the cutest place to visit in the Midwest in the winter? Head to Grand Marais, Minnesota! This beautiful small town is home to Nordic Saunas, cross country skiing, cute Scandinavian themed buildings, and more!

Note that winter kayaking, and kayaking at all on Lake Superior, should only be attempted by experience coastal paddlers with deep water self rescue skills and the appropriate gear. Read about cold weather kayaking gear here .

Once a fishing village, Grand Marais is now the entry way to the Boundary Waters in the summer, and the dreamiest getaway for winter lovers in the winter. Watch a winter sunrise at Artist’s Point on Lake Superior, grab food at the unique My Sister’s Place , and be sure to hit the trails and check out some of the best winter hiking around . 

Pro-tip: most of the time on popular hiking trails, you won’t need snowshoes but you will want a pair of warm winter hikers paired with microspikes or Yaktrax

13) Head to Chicago, Illinois

Head to the big city to experience some of the most magical winter scenes out there! Head to Chicago and go ice skating downtown, check out the Magnificent Mile Lights festival , or visit Christkindlmarket in downtown for a German-inspired Christmas market.

14) Visit Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City is one of the coziest places to visit in the winter in the Midwest with beautiful views of the Grand Traverse Bay, an abundance of places to eat, a quick drive to the Sleeping Bear Dunes, and more!

Spend the daytime exploring the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or alternately walk the snowy shores right in downtown Traverse City. After, head to North Peak Brewing Company for delicious beer and food.

15) Winter Hiking in Silver Bay, Minnesota

Looking for the best winter hiking destination in the Midwest? Head up to Silver Bay, Minnesota for some of the most beautiful winter hiking, snowshoeing, and skiing!

Stop by locally-owned Timber Coffee Company for a warm-up before you hit the trails! For an easy route, tackle the beautiful Shovel Point trail and walk along ice covered cliffs— this trail is especially beautiful at sunrise when the frozen ice formations along the trail light up pink. 

For a more difficult route, head out to frozen High Falls on the Baptism river, an adventure that’s sure to be memorable!

Check out the best all-season hiking trails in the area!

16) Enjoy Door County, Wisconsin

One of the most beautiful places to visit in the winter in the Midwest is Wisconsin’s Door County, where Lake Michigan makes for some incredible Arctic scenes!

With ample cross country skiing , spas , and bakeries , Door County is a great winter destination for active couples and families alike. If you only do one thing, be sure to head to Cave Point County Park at sunrise for dreamy winter scenes. Be sure to stay on the trail and walk with care as ice over the lake can be dangerous!

17) Winter Camp in the BWCA

Looking to sleep under the Northern Lights, cook over a wood burning stove in the backcountry, and enjoy all of the beautiful winter sights the Boundary Waters have to offer? Head out to the BWCA in Northern Minnesota for a winter camping adventure !

This adventure requires some previous experience with winter camping!

18) Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula

Have you been to the snowiest place in the Midwest? Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula averages 300 inches of snow a year and is easily one of the best winter destinations in the Midwest for reliable snowfall, skiing, snowshoeing, and more!

Check out Michigan’s Keweenaw Peninsula in the winter!

free resources like this one are made possible by paying subscribers of the  Hello Stranger Newsletter .  Join the newsletter today to connect with thousands of like-minded adventurers and get gritty and honest adventure stories delivered right to your inbox (aka read my diary).

Looking for more Midwest Vacation Ideas?

• Download the Midwest Adventure eBook Bundle for hundreds of waterfalls, campsites, ski trails, overlooks, coffee shops, and hidden gems throughout the midwest!
• Read about the best tings to do in Michigan’s Pictured Rocks
• Check out the best day hikes on the shores of Lake Superior
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Where can I learn more about exploring the Midwest?

Check out the  midwest adventure ebook bundle  for over 300+ pages of detailed adventure planning including hidden waterfalls, the best campsites, off-the-beaten-path adventures, and more covering sleeping bear to the end of the gunflint trail and everything in-between, love reading about the best places to visit in the midwest in the winter sharing this article goes miles to help independent writers like myself thanks for reading 🙂.

15 Best Winter Vacation Spots in the Midwest

Posted on September 21, 2022 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on March 7, 2023

Planning your next winter vacation and looking for some inspiration? Whether you’re traveling with your partner and are looking for romantic getaways or as a family looking for kid-friendly destinations , discover the best winter vacation spots in the Midwest.

From hiking to frozen waterfalls to joining a winter festival to strolling through historic towns, there are plenty of things to do come winter in the Midwest. No matter the type of vacation you’re looking for, you’ll find the perfect place for an epic winter getaway in the Midwest!

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Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is definitely one of the top vacation spots in the Midwest and should be added to your winter bucket list. The city becomes a snowy wonderland and is just magical around the holidays. You’ll find plenty of outdoor activities if you’re brave enough to embrace the cold, as well as many indoor activities to warm up.

Some of the top winter activities include ice skating at the  iconic ice rink in Millennium Park , sledding at Soldier Field Sledding Hill , snowshoeing on  Northerly Island , visiting an indoor garden, and strolling along the frozen lake on the Lakefront Trail .

For something fun, check out the curling rink on the rooftop of The Gwen Hotel , grab hot cocoa at one of the city’s many coffee shops, and tour a few museums , before checking out a winter rooftop event or two.

When it comes to places to stay, nothing beats the Viceroy Chigaco , one of the most popular and best-rated hotels in the city with incredible amenities and the perfect location in the heart of downtown.

Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, Indiana

A stunning sight to witness during winter, when Lake Michigan freezes over and shelf ice forms , Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore is a great winter destination in the Midwest f or people who enjoy spending time outdoors.

The area is ideal to go winter hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing . Snowshoes and cross-country skis can be rented for free at the Paul H. Douglas Center for Environmental Education  for use on the Paul H. Douglas Trail.

If you have your own equipment, you can tour part of the Glenwood Dunes Trails , interconnected loops ranging from 1 to 15 miles. Advanced skiers can challenge their skills on the 2.9-mile  Tolleston Dunes Trail .

If you’re visiting with kids or are a kid at heart, there’s a sledding area near West Beach.

If you are looking to spend some time in the area, you can rent a vacation rental nearby . You can also plan a day trip from Chicago.

Covered Bridges Scenic Byway, Iowa

If you are looking for a fun winter road trip in the Midwest , you’ll enjoy driving along the 82-mile Covered Bridges Scenic Byway in Iowa for a few days, stopping by small towns full of charm, and enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Nestled in the heart of Madison county, Winterset is in the middle of the byway and will make the perfect place to base yourself. You can take your time, visiting covered bridges, historic sights, and cultural attractions . There are over 120 featured places, so enough to keep you busy for the weekend.

Some of the must-sees include the covered bridges, John Wayne Birthplace & Museum, the Iowa Quilt Museum, Madison County Courthouse & Historic District, Madison County Historical Complex, Pammel State Park and Middle River Water Trail, a couple of wineries and a cidery, and Bison ranch.

When picking a place to stay, consider some of the historic inns in the area such as the Cobblestone Inn & Suite in Winterset.

Lawrence, Kansas

Lawrence will make a great winter weekend getaway in Kansas. The historic town features many quaint shops, a charming downtown, and many interesting museums.

Outdoorsy people will love heading to Clinton State Park and either go for a winter hike or cross-country skiing . It’s also a great place for bird-watching.

Don’t miss strolling by Massachusetts Street where you’ll find hundreds of independent shops and restaurants. Make sure to grab a bite at the popular Merchants Pub & Plate , where you’ll find comfort food and many different types of tap-beers.

You can also check out Old West Lawrence with its many houses from the 19th century , all on the National Register of Historic Places.

When you need to warm up check out a museum or two. The Haskell Cultural Center and Museum, displaying student and Native American art, the KU Natural History Museum , and the Spencer Museum of Art  are all great options.

You can book a room at the well-rated SpringHill Suites by Marriott Lawrence Downtown , offering free parking, complimentary breakfast, and an indoor pool. You’ll also find plenty of comfortable vacation homes around town.

Marquette, Michigan

The Upper Peninsula turns into a winter wonderland where you’ll find plenty of trails, ice caves, mountains, cultural activities, and winter events. Marquette makes a perfect Midwest winter getaway and a good base to explore all the things Michigan has to offer during the winter.

Thrill-seekers can challenge their skills by climbing one of the 70 frozen waterfalls in the area. The most popular ones for ice climbing include the blue ice curtains at Sand Point , the 40-foot column at Miners Falls in the  Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore , or the Eben Ice Caves which are the closest ones.

For winter sports head to Marquette Mountain Resort where you’ll find plenty of skiing and snowboarding slopes and trails . Cross-country skiers can head to Forestville Trails & Campground instead. You’ll also find many winter trails for hiking and snowshoeing in the area.

A fun thing to try is fat-tire biking , bikes with special tires that can go on snow!

For something indoors, check out some of the museums in town . The Marquette Maritime Museum & Lighthouse , the Upper Peninsula Children’s Museum , the DeVos Art Museum ,  the Shiras Planetarium , and the Michigan Iron Industry Museum are all highly recommended.

Don’t forget to check out the town’s event calendar as they organize many fun winter festivals !

You’ll find plenty of accommodation options for all budgets in Marquette. A good idea could be to book a vacation rental , especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.

Grand Marais, Minnesota

Located along Minnesota’s north shore of Lake Superior , Grand Marais will make a perfect winter vacation spot if you want to see frozen waterfalls and go winter hiking.

The best places to go hiking to frozen waterfalls are High Falls at Grand Portage State Park , Devil’s Kettle Falls at Judge C.R. Magney State Park , and Cascade Falls at Cascade River State Park .

For scenic views over Lake Superior, hike or snowshoe the 3.8-mile out and back trail to Pincushion Mountain Overlook. On that same mountain, you’ll find an extensive cross-country ski trail system . You can also hike the 2.3-mile Oberg Mountain Loop Trail for views of the lake.

In town, sample some donuts at World’s Best Donut , get breakfast at Java Moose , enjoy dinner at Angry Trout Cafe , and grab a bite and a brew at Voyageur Brewing Company. You’ll also find plenty of cute independent stores to shop for souvenirs.

You can rent one of the many vacation rentals in town or on the lake’s shore. Otherwise, book a stay at Aspen Lodge where you’ll find rooms that can accommodate up to 6 people, some with lake views and/or a jet bath.

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

While you might see the Northern lights year-round in Voyageurs National Park , chances are higher during winter, making winter the best time of the year to visit.

It’s hard to predict if the Northern lights will show or not, to maximize chances you can check the Alaska Geophysical Institute’s  Aurora Forecast up to a month in advance. Plus, the sky will need to be clear.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can camp at the park, or book a vacation rental nearby for more comfort. You can also book a hotel room in the closest town to the park, International Falls.

In winter, you can explore the park with a snowmobile, on cross-country skis, in an auto on the ice road, or on snowshoes . At the Rainy Lake Visitor Center, adult and child-sized skis, snowshoes, boots, and poles are available free of charge. There’s also a sledding hill inside the park.

If you are there in January, check you the fun events held in the towns near the park during the “ Icebox Days “.

Defiance, Missouri

The gateway to historic Missouri Wine Country , Defiance is a fun place to visit during winter. You’ll find plenty of recreational facilities to enjoy the snow , quaint shops and cozy cafes to warm up.

For winter sports, you can head to the Hidden Valley Ski Resort , offering trails for all levels and the largest tubing hill in the state.

You can also go for a winter hike at the Katy Trail State Park passing through bluffs, quaint towns, and incredible scenery, or at Babler State Park , known for its bird-watching opportunities. Another great place to see wildlife is the Howell Island Conservation Area , but the road there is not always open, so check beforehand.

In town, don’t miss touring the Historic Daniel Boone Home at Lindenwood Park to learn more about his past. If you like wine, make sure to visit a winery or two and go wine tasting . The award-winning Chandler Hill Vineyards is a must-see, check out their event calendar, they always organize fun things.

You’ll find a couple of cozy inns and charming bed and breakfasts set in historic houses around town. The Merry House Inn is a great option, with an ideal location. Otherwise, book a vacation home.

Omaha, Nebraska

If you are looking for a winter city break , Omaha makes the perfect winter destination in the Midwest as it offers the perfect blend of cultural activities, artsy vibes, an innovative food scene, and entertainment . It’s also a great family-friendly destination with plenty of fun things to do with kids.

Stroll around the Dundee–Happy Hollow Historic District where you’ll find several parks, historic buildings, restaurants, and independent shops. Eat at Pitch Pizzeria for some of the best pizzas in town or try something new at the trendy Lalibela Restaurant , serving Ethiopian food.

If you like beer, a fun thing to do is to take a ride on a Omaha’s Brew Bus which will take you on a tour of local breweries, sampling local brews.

You’ll also find many museums around town. If you are traveling with kids, don’t miss Omaha’s Children Museum and its hands-on exhibits that are fun and educational. The Durham Museum is great to learn more about the region’s past and is set in an old train station. Nearby, don’t miss the iconic Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge.

There are many historic places to tour as well like the General Crook House, the Rails West Railroad Museum, the Squirrel Cage Jail, and Joslyn Castle.

If the weather is nice you can take a stroll in one of the city’s many parks and gardens . Look at the sculptures at Pioneer Courage Park , enjoy nature at the OPPD Arboretum , or discover local flora at the Lauritzen Gardens/Kenefick Park.

The Farnam is a great place to stay at, conveniently located within walking distance of most of the city’s attractions. You can also check out some of the many great vacation rentals available around town.

Medora, North Dakota

Surrounded by the Little Missouri National Grassland and Theodore Roosevelt National Park , the tiny town of Medora will make an awesome winter vacation spot in the Midwest for true outdoor lovers.

In winter, you’ll find many miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails at Theodore Roosevelt National Park . It’s a great time to see wildlife, especially bison and wild horses. You can also plan a scenic drive through the park to take in the stunning winter scenery.

In town, you can tour the Chateau de Mores , a 26-room summer home built in 1883, and the Maltese Cross Cabin , where President Theodore Roosevelt stayed in the late 1800s. Don’t miss the fun North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame as well.

The first weekend of December, the town organizes the Medora’s Old Fashioned Cowboy Christmas with plenty of fun events for everyone to enjoy.

Note that winter is the off-season so many businesses in town might be closed when you visit.

You’ll find a couple of cabins available for rent in and around town. Or you can book a stay at the comfy AmericInn by Wyndham Medora offering an indoor pool and a complimentary breakfast.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills is usually popular during the warmer months, but visiting during winter will allow you to escape the crowds and see the area turned into a freezing wonderland . There are actually quite a few things you can do there come winter , from hiking in the snow to pampering yourself with a spa day.

With miles of hiking trails passing by caves, gorges, and waterfalls , you’ll find plenty of opportunities from easy strolls to strenuous hikes . Some of the best places to check out during winter include Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, Cedar Falls, and Rock House.

Book a cabin with a fireplace and hot tub so you can warm up after a day spent outdoors. Take it up a notch by booking a spa treatment or massage at the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls . You can check out their glamping options as well, they offer luxurious yurts and geodome.

In the evening, head to  Hocking Hills Winery  where you can sample some local wine while enjoying the live weekend entertainment. If beer is more your thing, head to Brewery 33  instead.

You can also plan to spend a few hours visiting Nelsonville and its charming historic downtown filled with independent stores, coffee shops, and restaurants.

Black Hills, South Dakota

Outdoor lovers will love visiting the Black Hills during winter. The stunning landscape and the many activities and entertainment options make it a top winter getaway destination in the Midwest. You could easily spend 2 weeks there and find new things to do every day.

Start your winter adventure with a 19-mile scenic drive along the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, stopping along the way to gaze at Roughlock Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Spearfish Falls . Advanced hikers and ice climbers will enjoy the uphill trails to Community Caves and Baker’s Cave.

If you want to see wildlife head to Jewel Cave National Monument and Wind Cave National Park where you’ll find hiking trails and scenic drives . Badlands National Park is also a must-see in the area.

Skiers and snowboarders of all levels will enjoy the 80 trails at Terry Peak . Full equipment rental and ski lessons are available at the resort as well as an onsite restaurant. If snowshoeing is more your thing, head to Custer State Park where you can rent equipment and enjoy endless miles of groomed trails.

In the northern Black Hills, all the way through Deerfield, you’ll find an extensive interconnected trail system , where you can go on a snowmobile tour through forested mountains and valleys.

Another incredible thing to experience during winter is to watch the sunrise over Mount Rushmore National Memorial. 

The communities of Lead, Deadwood, Spearfish, Sturgis, Belle Fourche, and Hulet are great places to grab a bite, have drinks, and sleep. You’ll find many cabins in the area with easy access to trails.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County turns into a winter wonderland with the first flakes of snow, book a cabin, sip on hot cocoa warming up by the fireplace, and enjoy some of the best winter activities in the state.

With over 50 miles of trails to explore in the county, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Whether you want to go winter hiking, snowshoeing, or cross-country skiing , add one or two local state parks to your itinerary. Peninsula State Park is a great option.

Even in winter, you should go for a stroll on one of the many local beaches to admire the frozen landscape.

For something to do indoors, you can visit a couple of local breweries like Starboard Brewing Company, Shipwrecked Brewery, and Door County Brewery, or sample some cider at  Island Orchard Cider .

There are a couple of wine-tasting opportunities as well in the area. Check out Harbor Ridge Winery, Stone’s Throw Winery, and Door Peninsula Winery. 

No matter when you visit, you’ll find plenty of events and festivals going on, so make sure to check out if there’s anything happening during your vacation.

The Wanderlust Hotel is a great place to stay in Sturgeon Bay for couples (adult-only). Families will enjoy the Open Hearth Lodge with its family rooms, free breakfast, and indoor pool. You can also book a vacation rental , many feature great views over the lake.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

By Patti from The Savvy Globetrotter

Lake Geneva is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest for a winter vacation. Located in southeastern Wisconsin, this picturesque lakeside resort city becomes a winter wonderland when it snows . Fun outdoor winter activities in the area include skiing, snowboarding, sledding, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice skating.

One of the most unique winter attractions in Lake Geneva are the ice castles , a man-made frozen attraction that can be found in only five cities in North America.

The castles are built using hundreds of thousands of icicles, hand-placed by professional ice artists and include sculptures, thrones, slides, ice-carved tunnels , and more. The ice castles are the most beautiful at night when they are lit by LED lights in various colors.

A popular winter event is the annual Winterfest celebration , the highlight of which is the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship where teams of snow sculptors and artists compete for a national title.

Lake Geneva is easy to reach – it is located less than 90 minutes from Chicago and about an hour away from Milwaukee.

The Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is the most convenient place to stay for visitors interested in skiing, snowboarding, and sledding. In addition to its ski hills, this AAA Four-Diamond resort offers many indoor amenities for those looking to stay warm including several restaurants, a spa, and an indoor pool.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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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10 Amazing Trips To Take Throughout The Midwest In The Winter

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10 Absolutely Beautiful Places In The Midwest To Go 'Off-Grid' This Fall

Fall road trips: 10 scenic drives to take in the midwest in october, 10 cozy towns in the midwest to visit this fall.

• Experience a winter wonderland in the Midwest with stunning landscapes like frozen lakes, snow-capped mountains, and icy waterfalls.
• Door County, Wisconsin offers charming coastal scenery and seasonal festivals, with attractions like Cana Island and winter activities in state parks.
• Enjoy snow activities in Boyne Falls, Michigan and Mackinac Island, or indulge in a spa getaway in Wisconsin Dells for a peaceful winter retreat.

America's Heartland makes for a fantastic getaway just about any time of year thanks, in part, to its small-town charm and down-home, friendly atmosphere. However, for those who enjoy the snow, the Midwest is especially alluring in the winter.

After all, from its frozen lakes and rugged, snow-capped mountains to its icy waterfalls and dramatic ice caves, the land between the coasts is the very epitome of a winter wonderland escape. Whether vacationers opt for a stay in a rustic cabin in the wilds of Ohio or a spa getaway in Wisconsin, here are some of the best winter trips in the Midwest that showcase its beauty and adventure during the chilliest time of the year.

For Peak Foliage, Here's Why The Midwest Is Bound To Put On A Lovely Leaf-Peeping Show

Learn where to find the best fall foliage in the Midwest and enjoy autumn to the fullest!

10 Enjoy Winter In The Cape Cod Of The Midwest (Door County, Wisconsin)

Featuring 300 miles of coastline , it's not hard to see why Door County, Wisconsin is often referred to as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest."

But the peninsula is also one of the most breathtaking Midwest winter escapes for its seasonal festivals and many outdoor snow activities. One particular spot not to miss is Cana Island, which features a beautiful lighthouse .

• Things to do: Skiing in Peninsula State Park , winter activities in Newport State Park , Village of Sister Bay Sports Park
• Accommodations: White Lace Inn (Sturgeon Bay), The Lodge at Leathem Smith (Sturgeon Bay), Newport Resort (Egg Harbor)

Popular winter destinations in Door County include Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, and Egg Harbor.

9 Rent A Cabin In Hocking Hills State Park (Hocking Hills, Ohio)

Featuring rugged cliffs and cascading waterfalls, Hocking Hills State Park offers some of the best Midwest winter trips, which is unsurprising since it's the crown jewel of Southeastern Ohio.

See the area's magnificent ice formations in the winter with a stay in nearby resort lodges or charming cabins .

• Things to do: Hocking Hills State Park Visitor Center , Hocking Hills State Park Old Man's Cave , The Devil's Bathtub , Rose Lake Overlook
• Accommodations: Pine Creek , Pioneer , Timber Ridge

Hocking Hills State Park is open year-round from dawn to dusk and offers free admission.

8 Hit The Slopes Of Boyne Mountain (Boyne Falls, Michigan)

Boyne Falls, Michigan, is one of the most quaint fall getaways in small Midwest towns . But it also extends that small-town charm to visitors in the winter season.

In particular, Boyne Mountain offers people a variety of snow activities, ranging from snow tubing to skiing and much more.

• Things to do: Boyne Mountain, SkyBridge Michigan
• Accommodations: Boyne Mountain Resort

Discover these stunning off-grid destinations in the Midwest for a truly unique fall experience.

7 Escape For A Snowy Retreat On Mackinac Island (Mackinac Island, Michigan)

Mackinac Island is one of the truly scenic Midwest spots to visit , especially during the wintertime because it's the off-season, which means there will be fewer crowds.

Visitors looking for amazing things to do in the Midwest during winter really need to head to Mackinac Island State Park here, which offers the perfect chilly and crisp day out in this Michigan gem.

• Things to do: Mackinac Island State Park , Skull Cave , Arch Rock
• Accommodations: Pontiac Lodge , Village Inn Suites , Quality Inn Saint Ignace

Mackinac Island's tourist season runs from May to October, after which some of the area's lodging, restaurants, and other attractions close for the season. However, many are still open in the winter, so be sure to check the website for a complete list prior to visiting.

6 Enjoy A Spa Getaway In Wisconsin Dells (Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin)

Enjoy a winter wonderland in Wisconsin with a trip to Wisconsin Dells, which is easily one of the best winter vacation destinations in the Midwest.

With a population of just under 4,000, the small town is the perfect place to partake in snow attractions like snowboarding, tubing, and skiing, away from the crowds.

• Things to do: Rocky Arbor State Park , Lake Delton, Wisconsin River
• Accommodations: Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells , Tru by Hilton Wisconsin Dells , Holiday Inn Express Wisconsin Dells

Spas in Wisconsin Dells include Sundara Inn & Spa , Sun Mountain Spa , and Spa Serenity .

5 Visit The Snow-Capped Lutsen Mountains (Lutsen, Minnesota)

Perched along the shoreline of Lake Superior, Lutsen, Minnesota, is one of the most beautiful winter wonderlands in the Midwest.

Tackle the Lutsen Mountains' 450 miles of snowmobile trails or go skiing on the vast 1,000 acres of downhill slopes, the options are endless.

• Things to do: Skiing and snowboarding , snowmobiling
• Accommodations: The Mountain Inn At Lutsen , Solbakken Resort On Superior , Caribou Highlands Lodge

Embrace the autumn charm with these Midwest road trips. Stunning foliage and serene landscapes await on these 10 scenic drives in October.

4 Embark On A Winter Escape To Galena County (Galena, Illinois)

Enjoy a snow day in Galena County, which is home to several iconic resorts perfect for those seeking snowy winter vacations in the Midwest.

Situated in northwest Illinois, the small town of Galena is certainly worth the trip, with its pretty B&Bs, inns, and spa resorts.

• Things to do: West Street Sculpture Park , U.S. Grant Home State Historic Site , Grant Park , Horseshoe Mound Preserve
• Accommodations: Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa , Wyndham Garden Galena Hotel & Day Spa , Stoney Creek Inn Galena , Cloran Mansion Bed & Breakfast

3 Visit A Winter Hot Spot In The Cornhusker State (Lincoln, Nebraska)

There are many things to do in Lincoln, Nebraska , especially during the winter months when it transforms into one of the most beautiful Midwest vacation spots covered in snow.

Tourists can go birdwatching at the Lake Ogallala Bald Eagle Viewing Center , hit the slopes, or tackle one of the area's many ice skating rinks.

• Things to do: Nebraska State Capitol , Holmes Lake Park , Sheldon Museum of Art
• Accommodations: Sleep Inn & Suites University , Holiday Inn Express & Suites - Lincoln Downtown, An IHG Hotel , The Scarlet, Lincoln, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel

2 Tackle The Paoli Peaks (Paoli, Indiana)

Founded in 1816, Paoli 's historical roots run deep, making it a great winter option for those keen on learning more about the Midwest's incredible past.

Plus, its alpine ski resort, Paoli Peaks, is a bucket list adventure like no other.

• Things to do: Paoli Peaks , Pioneer Mothers Memorial Forest
• Accommodations: Best Western Plus French Lick , French Lick Springs Hotel

Fall is the prime time to explore the charm of the Midwest. For the most enchanting autumn retreat, check out these cozy Midwest towns in the fall.

1 Stay At A Historic Lakeside Lodge (Nisswa, Minnesota)

For one of the best lakeside vacations in the Great American Midwest in the winter, head to Nisswa, which is home to not one but eleven lakes .

Situated near Gull Lake, the Minnesota town's historic Grand View Lodge, which has been providing guests with cozy lodging since 1916 , is certainly worth a stay.

• Things to do: Fritz Loven Park, Gull Lake

Other accommodations in the area include Quarterdeck Resort , Nature Link Resorts , and North At Grand View Lodge .

• Destinations

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

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

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

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

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

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

Midwest road trip ideas

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

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

List of Midwestern States

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

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

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

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

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

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

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

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

Central Iowa road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

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

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

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

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

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

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

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

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

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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. :)

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

15 Fun Midwest Road Trips For Your Bucket List

March 25, 2021 by //  by  Midwest Explored

Looking for fun Midwest Road Trips to explore? Then take a look at this list full of the best Midwest road trips.

I was born and raised in the Midwest and I know there is so much to enjoy about each state.

That’s why I’ve found a unique and fun road trip in the Midwest for each Midwestern state.

On these road trips you’ll drive down the iconic Route 66, sample the best restaurants in Nebraska, admire natural wonders, and explore famous ghost towns.

So here are 15 fun Midwest road trips for your bucket list!

Route 66 Through Illinois For History Lovers

• Bloomington
• Collinsville

You’ll start your Midwest road trip through Illinois’ portion of Route 66 in Chicago.

Make sure to grab a picture of the iconic Route 66 sign in Chicago that marks the start of the famous highway.

From there, you’ll pass through Joliet and head into Bloomington. You’ll want to check out the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Head out of Bloomington towards Litchfield. On the way, you’ll pass through some amazing kitschy road side attractions and unique food stands.

In Litchfield, grab something to eat at the iconic Doc’s Soda Fountain before experiencing the Sky View Drive-in Theater.

You’ll finish your trip in Collinsville where you should consider stopping at the Rabbit Ranch as you end your journey on the iconic Route 66.

Natural Wonders Of Iowa Road Trip

• Dunnings Spring Park
• Effigy Mounds National Monument
• Maquoketa Caves State Park
• Wildcat Den State Park

For your Midwest road trip through Iowa’s natural wonders, you’ll start at Dunning’s Springs Park.

Dunning’s Springs Park is home to one of the best waterfalls in Iowa .

From there, head to Effigy Mounds National Monument. This national monument is home to over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans from 20 different Nations.

Next, you’ll make your way to Maquoketa Caves State Park.

Maquoketa Caves State Park is over 300 acres and has the most caves of any Iowa State Park.

Many of them you can walk through and hike out to see.

End your trip at Wildcat Den State Park. It is a beautiful park known for it’s massive rock features.

You can take hikes and admire the ‘Devil’s Punch Bowl’, ‘Fat Man’s Squeeze’, and ‘Steamboat Rock’.

Post-Rock Scenic Byway, Kansas

• Limestone Native American Posts
• Wilson Lake
• The Garden of Eden

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that is 18 miles long.

It winds through the Smoky Hills and is named for the unique limestone rock posts Native American’s used to build their fences, homes, and other structures.

Along the route, you’ll be able to admire these unique limestone Native American posts. Four of them have had faces carved into them by California artist, Fred Whitman.

One of the main parts of the byway is the area surrounding Wilson Lake.

There are several scenic stops you can take to admire Wilson Lake, or you can get out and explore and hike near the lake.

The scenic byway ends in the town of Lucas, which is home to the famous ‘Garden of Eden’.

The ‘Garden of Eden’ is a National Historic Place that features over 150 folk art statues.

S.P. Dinsmoor was a Civil War veteran who created the folk art statues in the late 1800s.

Dinsmoor and his art made Lucas an artists town and it is now home to several different artist collectives and unique galleries.

It is the perfect stopping point for your road trip in the Midwest.

Ghost Towns Of Missouri For A Spooky Road Trip

• Possum Trot
• Georgia City

For those looking for a spookier adventure, consider a road trip in the Midwest full of Missouri ghost towns.

You’ll start your road trip in Arlington, a once lively town on Route 66. Arlington was established in the 1860s but was abandoned less than 100 years later.

Just south of Arlington is Bloodland. The oddly named town became obsolete in the 1940s, but a few buildings still remain.

From Bloodland you’ll head to the town of Possum Trot. All that remains of the former town is a church and a home that have long stood abandoned.

Finish your trip in Georgia City. The only thing left of this once hopping town is the cemetery. Many of the town’s original residents are burried there.

A drive through the ghost towns of Missouri is sure to make for an interesting Midwest road trip.

The Ohio River Scenic Byway, Indiana

The Ohio River Scenic Byway runs in three states, with 300 miles running through Indiana.

There are three historic towns you’ll pass through that offer charming experiences in each.

Begin your road trip in Vevay, named the 4th Coolest Small Town in America, and for good reason. There you can visit a casino, have a delicious meal, and even go zip-lining.

From Vevay you’ll continue down the scenic byway to the charming town of Madison. You’ll be able to sample locally made cider, go hiking, and enjoy small town charm.

Finish your Ohio River Scenic Byway road trip in the small town of Newburgh.

In Newburgh, walk the Riverwalk, grab a bite to eat, and explore unique shops.

Small Towns Of Minnesota Road Trip

• Taylors Falls

There are so many cute small towns in Minnesota that it makes for the perfect Midwest road trip.

You’ll start your trip in Ely, which is home to one of the best waterfalls in Minnesota , the Kawishiwi Falls.

From there, head to Pipestone, which is home to the Pipestone National Monument. At the National Monument you’ll be able to hike and learn more about Native American history.

After you leave Pipestone, continue on to Winona. Winona is perfect for a romantic getaway if you are a couple that enjoys festivals.

The small town of Winona is known for it’s frequent and unique festivals. So no matter what time of year you visit, you’ll probably get to enjoy one.

End you’re small towns road trip in Taylors Falls.

It’s the perfect place to end your trip because you’ll be able to decompress and enjoy the great outdoors.

Lighthouses Of Michigan Road Trip For Coastal Fun

• Big Red Lighthouse
• Big Sable Point Lighthouse
• Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse
• Fort Gratiot Point Light Station

Start your exploration of Michigan’s lighthouses at the famous Big Red Lighthouse in Holland. Holland is great for a weekend getaway in Michigan , so consider spending a little time enjoying the town while you’re there.

From there, travel North to the Big Sable Point Lighthouse.

The Big Sable Point Lighthouse is in Ludington, which is also where you can find one of the best beaches in Michigan .

Next, you’ll stop at the Old Mackinac Point Lighthouse, one of the best lighthouses in Michigan , which is on Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island is another great place to explore, so plan to spend some time to tour both the lighthouse and the nearby area.

End your trip at Michigan’s first lighthouse, the Fort Gratiot Point Light Station.

It first opened in 1825 and is a popular lighthouse for tourist visits, so plan enough time there to get the full experience. The lighthouses of Michigan road trip in the Midwest is a great way to experience Michigan coastal life.

Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway, North Dakota

• Assumption Abbey

If you’re looking for Midwest road trips that explore the hidden parts of Midwestern States, then consider traveling down the Old Red/Old Ten Scenic Byway in North Dakota.

The best part about this road trip is that it is mostly full of beautiful scenic views of North Dakota.

As you drive along, you’ll come into the small town of Taylor. Taylor is known for it’s yearly horse festivals.

If you stop by during one of those festivals, you’re in for a real treat.

Next you’ll pass into Richardton, which is home to the beautiful Assumption Abbey.

While you’re there, make sure you take the time to tour this stunning abbey that is seemingly in the middle of nowhere.

As you finish you’re road trip, you’ll find Salem Sue.

Salem Sue is the World’s Largest Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture. It was built in 1974 using $40,000 in donations from local farmers and residents.

It is a unique way to end your Midwestern travel through scenic North Dakota.

Ohio Waterfalls Midwest Road Trip s

• Mohican State Park
• Brandywine Falls
• Lanterman’s Falls
• Hocking Hills State Park

Most of Ohio’s best waterfalls can be found in state parks, so start your road trip in Mohican State Park.

At Mohican State Park there are two waterfalls you can see. The Big and Little Lyons Falls, both of which flow over deep sandstone gorges.

Next head to Cuyahoga National Park to admire the Brandywine Falls, home to one of the best waterfalls in Ohio .

The falls are a popular spot to visit and cascade down into the river over 65 feet. The hike to view them is fairly easy, so it’s a great stop on any waterfall Midwest road trips.

Continue on to Lanternman’s Falls, which is actually in Youngstown Ohio’s metro park.

Make sure while you’re there you take the time to explore and enjoy the best things to do in Youngstown Ohio .

End your trip at one of my favorite spots, Hocking Hills State Park.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the best hiking trails in Ohio , and a lot of them lead you to one of the three waterfalls there.

Exploring Ohio’s waterfalls is a great way to see some of the most beautiful spots in my home state.

State Parks of Wisconsin Midwwest Road Trip For Outdoor Adventures

• Peninsula State Park
• Copper Falls State Park
• Pattison State Park
• Devil’s Lake State Park

There are tons of State Parks in Wisconsin, but for this road trip, I have found some of the best ones for you to explore.

Begin your journey at Peninsula State Park. It is the state’s second most popular park and has a mix of challenging and easy hikes, so there is something for everyone.

If you are up for the challenge, hike the 2 mile Eagle Trail to admire breathtaking limestone cliffs.

Continue your trip to Copper Falls State Park.

Copper Falls State Park is home to one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Wisconsin , but not the only state park on this trip to have waterfalls.

From Copper Falls, head to Pattinson State Park.

Pattinson State Park is home to Wisconsin’s biggest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls. The hike is fairly easy to view it, so I definitely suggest taking the time to do the hike.

Finish your Midwest road trip in Devil’s Lake State Park.

This State Park is known for its many unique rock formations and this has made it one of Wisconsin’s most popular State Parks.

When you plan this road trip, make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore all the State Parks and what they have to offer.

Michigan’s Covered Bridges Trail

• Fallasburg Covered Bridge
• Ada Covered Bridge
• Langley Covered Bridge Historic Site
• Holz-Brucke Bridge

Michigan has its own Covered Bridges Trail and its a great way to explore Michigan. You’ll start your trip in Lowell at the Fallasburg Covered Bridge.

Fallasburg is one of the only four covered bridges in Michigan that is still open to vehicle traffic.

Tourists have been coming to view this 100 foot covered bridge since it was built in 1871.

Right by the Fallasburg bridge is the Ada Covered Bridge.

The Ada Covered Bridge is only open to foot traffic and takes you across the Thornapple River onto Bronson Street in Ada.

From there, you’ll travel to the Langley Covered Bridge, which is the longest wooden covered bridge in Michigan.

End your tour of Michigan’s covered bridges in the cute Michigan small town of Frankenmuth.

Frankenmuth is home to the Holz-Brucke Bridge which was actually built in 1980.

It may be a newer covered bridge, but it is absolutely worth a stop on your Midwest road trip!

Best Restaurants A Midwest Road Trip Through Nebraska For Foodies

• The Chocolate Bar, Grand Island
• The Mixing Bowl, Gering
• Sehnert’s Bakery, McCook
• Shirley’s Diner, Omaha
• UNL Dairy Store, Lincoln

Nebraska is full of amazing restaurants, so start in Grand Island and The Chocolate Bar. The stand out on this bakery’s menu is their Old Fashioned Chocolate Cake, but you’ll love anything you order.

Next head to Gering and sample German classics with a bit of Midwestern flair at The Mixing Bowl.

The Mixing Bowl is open for breakfast and lunch and the locals absolutely love it, so you know it’s going to be good.

After breakfast or lunch at The Mixing Bowl, head to Sehnert’s Bakery in McCook for a delicious pastry, a gourmet sandwich, or a cup of espresso.

For dinner, you can’t beat Shirley’s Diner in Omaha.

Shirley’s is a family owned and operated classic 1950s style diner. You’ll get to enjoy Nebraska favorites to the sounds of good old fashioned Rock N Roll.

End your foodie Midwest road trip at the UNL Dairy Store for a sweet treat.

UNL Dairy Store offers ice cream that is handmade by local university students as well as other sweet dairy treats.

It is a perfect way to end one of the most unique Midwest road trips in Nebraska.

Haunted South Dakota Midwest Road Trip

• Mount Marty College
• Gitchi Manitou
• Scotty Phillip Cemetery
• Historic Fairmont Hotel

South Dakota is home to some well known haunted location, making it the perfect place to have a haunted road trip.

Start your haunted road trip at Mount Marty College.

Mount Marty College has been home to ghost tales ever since the death of a maintenance worker in 1936. Residents in Whitby Hall report apparitions, scratchings, and strange noises.

From there head to Gitchi Manitou for some newer haunting rumors.

Gitchi Manitou is where six Sioux Falls teens were reportedly murdered in the 1970s while camping and now local legend says the teens haunt the area.

Your next stop is the Scotty Philip Cemetery.

Its no surprise that an old cemetery would have rumors of being haunted. The cemetery has a sad story of a father surviving his five children, and now locals believe he haunts the grounds mourning his children.

End your haunted road trip at the famous Historic Fairmont Hotel in Deadwood South Dakota.

Ghost tours are offered daily or if you’re brave, you can spend the night and wait for an opportunity to experience the ghostly happenings yourself.

This will definitely be one of the most interesting Midwest road trips you can take!

Roadsides Attractions Of Illinois For A Kitschy Midwest Road Trip

• Superman Square, Metropolis
• Brook’s Catsup Bottle, Collinsville
• The Gemini Giant, Wilmington
• De Immigrant Windmill, Fulton

Illinois has some great hidden gems in the Midwest , like kitschy roadside attractions, and a lot of them are on the famous Route 66. So you can combine this road trip with my Route 66 one!

Begin your kitschy road trip in Metropolis where you can admire the Superman Square. Metropolis claims to be the home of the iconic super hero, and takes that very seriously.

From there, head to Collinsville where you can view the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle, the Brook’s Catsup Bottle.

At one time, it was the water tower for the town, but now it is a fun kitschy roadside attraction.

Next, head to the Launching Pad restaurant in Wilmington.

Outside of the restaurant stands a large Mid Century statue known as the Gemini Giant. Its a really fun spot to grab a bite to eat and a fun selfie!

Finish your kitschy road trip by viewing the De Immigrant Windmill in Fulton.

The De Immigrant Windmill was originally constructed in the Netherlands but now stands proudly in this cute Illinois town.

Natural Wonders of Missouri Road Trip

• Clifty Creek Natural Bridge
• Johnson Shut-ins
• Elephant Rock State Park
• Grand Gulf State Park

Missouri is the perfect state for Midwest road trips that focus on natural wonders, because it has plenty!

I suggest starting your road trip at the Clifty Creek Natural Bridge.

You’ll have to take a 2.5 mile hike, but at the end you’ll get great views of the natural rock bridge.

From there, head to the Johnson Shut-ins.

The Johnson Shut-ins are volcanic rock that are stuck in the East Fork of the Black River. They make for a great way to spend a hot summer day, because you can go swimming in the area.

Continue to Elephant Rock State Park to see it’s namesake, the Elephant Rock.

The rock formation was created with 1.5 billion-year-old granite that you can now climb and admire.

Finish your journey through Missouri’s natural wonders at the Grand Gulf State Park.

Locals refer to Grand Gulf as the “Little Grand Canyon” and was formed by a collapsed cave system. It’s a great way to end your Midwestern travels.

Packing List For Your Midwest Road Trips

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

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when taking Midwest road trips. It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

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

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

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

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet. 

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

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

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when staying in one of the best Airbnbs in Illinois.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels. 

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

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

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the charcoal filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

You can find  filter replacements here. 

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

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

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. when hiking This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great

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

No matter which of these Midwest road trips you decide to do, you’re guaranteed to have a good time. They all offer a unique and fun way to explore the Midwest.

Have you been on any of these road trips or ones like them? If you haven’t, which one do you want to take first?

I’d love to hear about your Midwestern travels in the comments!

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[…] Visiting Iowa would certainly make a fun Midwest road trip! […]

10 Midwest Winter Getaways To Embrace Or Escape The Cold!

There’s no escaping the fact that the Midwest experiences pretty cold winter temperatures and most people’s reactions is to escape and fly south for some much needed winter sun!  However, despite the cold and snow, some great winter adventures can be had in the Midwest!

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Midwest Winter Getaways

I called on some of my Midwest travel blogger friends to share some of their favourite Midwest winter getaways!  Whether you’re looking to enjoy the outdoors, or keep warm with fun indoor attractions, I think we’ve got you covered!

Illinois | Iowa | Missouri | Minnesota | Wisconsin

Chicago, Illinois

Suggested by Kirsten from Kids Are A Trip

Winter is the perfect time to visit Chicago . Festivities kick off right after Thanksgiving and everyone embraces the cold wintry weather. From the Christkindlmarket to the Museum of Science and Industry , the city gets decked out in its holiday finest, and puts on quite a show.

There are places to go ice skating (both public and private), but don’t miss the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park in the heart of downtown. Skates are available for rent and you can’t beat the location in the shadow of the city’s skyscrapers.

Warm up afterwards with hot cocoa from Ghiradelli’s chocolate shop or pop into the world’s largest Starbucks . If you prefer a more formal experience, take afternoon tea at one of the local hotels, such as The Drake or The Peninsula.

Theatre is always a good option in Chicago with a multitude of Broadway and local productions to choose from. Around the holidays there are performances of It’s A Wonderful Life, The Nutcracker , and A Christmas Carol .

If you visit in early February, take advantage of Theatre Week and get discounted tickets to some of the best performances.

Midwest Winter Travel Tip : If you’re traveling through Chicago’s O’Hare airport in winter, know that delays are quite possible. I recommend taking the first flight of the day if possible to reduce your risk of an extended stay, but know if you have to stay longer, that isn’t a bad thing.

🏨 Where To Stay : Central Loop Hotel (Downtown)

Clear Lake, Iowa

Suggested by Sara from Travel With Sara

Clear Lake, Iowa is a bustling lake town all year around. Spectators flock to Clear Lake, each year, to see the beautiful kites flying over the frozen lake in February . The Color The Wind Kite Festival is held annually and folks come from all over the world to see a frozen lake come to life.

Kites of all shapes and sizes are flown high above the lake. It’s truly a majestic experience, as spectators can walk right next to the person flying the kite and even ask a question or two. Most importantly, look up and enjoy the beauty of a flying kite and a frozen lake!

Dress accordingly as winter is cold in Iowa and visitors will want to enjoy the kites for a period of time. Hot chocolate and warm treats are available for purchase near the lake, as well as in the local restaurants and shops. My recommendation: Swing into Cookies Etc . and grab a hot chocolate and a freshly baked cookie to go.

There’s nothing like standing out on a frozen lake with a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie from Cookies, Etc. This is an Iowa classic and something everyone deserves to enjoy.

🏨 Where To Stay : Best Western Holiday Lodge

Dubuque, Iowa

One of the best things to do in Dubuque during the winter season is to go skiing or snowboarding at  Sundown Mountain Resort !  If possible, I’d recommend visiting during the day in the week as the slopes are emptier, it can get a little crowded in the evenings and during the weekend.

The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium hold an annual ‘Ice Fest’ during January or for the adults, Dubuque On Ice Brewfest is held in February , featuring a whole host of local breweries!

Winter is also a great time to see bald eagles along the Mississippi River !

Midwest Winter Travel Tip: I like to carry a frost sheet in my car, especially if I’m having to park outside. Simply lay it over the windshield and shut the tabs in the doors.  It stops frost and ice from forming on the window, so you don’t have to scrape it or wait for it to clear!

🏨 Where To Stay : The Hotel Julien Dubuque and the Grand Harbor Resort are some good options for Downtown hotels. Check out this post for full reviews: 7 Best Hotels In Dubuque Iowa USA

Winterset, Iowa

Suggested by Michelle from Simplify Live Love

Winter is the perfect time to explore Winterset in Madison County and Iowa’s new Covered Bridges Scenic Byway. The six famous Covered Bridges of Madison County are beautiful in any weather, but winter adds a magical element that only snow can provide. Choose a snowy weekend and head out to explore Madison County!

Make sure to explore Winterset’s downtown square too. Named “Outstanding Retail Experience” at the 2019 Iowa Tourism Conference, the square features many fun, independently owned shops with something for everyone!

If you’re a John Wayne fan, you won’t want to miss the John Wayne Museum , the only museum in the world dedicated to this celebrity. Warm up with a Pammel Park Coffee Company coffee at The Cellar and grab a delicious lunch at the famous Northside Café .

Head over here to learn more about the Madison county bridges and what to do while you’re in Winterset, Iowa.

Midwest Winter Travel Tip: Explore the 82-mile scenic byway safely by stocking your car with emergency essentials like wool blankets, snacks, water, and a full tank of gas. Take it slow if roads are icy, remember not to use cruise control on slippery roads, and take care when driving on gravel.

🏨 Where To Stay : Cobblestone Inn & Suites

Defiance, Missouri

Suggested by Kay from Happy Trails Hiking

Nestled in Missouri Wine Country is a slice of National history in the form of The Historic Daniel Boone Home . Each December, this reconstructed 1800’s frontier village comes to life for Christmas! Visitors step back in time at the Christmas Candlelight Walk .  

These walks take place on Fridays and Saturdays in December and sell out quickly. You can get your tickets through the Boone Home’s Facebook page.

We recommend making a full day tour of wine country stopping at Montelle Winery for the BEST views from a Missouri Winery as well as Defiance Gardens and vineyard for a wonderful afternoon snack.

Taking a walk at Klondike Park around the Lakeside Loop is a relaxing way to enjoy mid-afternoon, as well. Ending your day at the candlelight walk to really get you in the holiday spirit.

Even if you find yourself at the Boone Home during the week, you can still get a tour of this Historic Home and the village.

Park hours for home tours are 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Monday–Saturday; 11:30 a.m.–5 p.m. Sunday through December 16th. Then, Winter hours are 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 12–5 p.m. Sunday.  The outdoor spaces are open for you to look around during the week all year long.  Find out more at Happy Trails Hiking .

🏨Where To Stay: TownePlace Suites by Marriott St. Louis Chesterfield (7 miles from Defiance)

Maple Grove, Minnesota

Suggested by Nicky from Little Family Adventure

Just minutes from downtown Minneapolis is the city of Maple Grove, home to Elm Creek Park Reserve . This regional park is an outdoor treasure that few people know about.

During the winter months, come out and enjoy tubing, Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding , and snowboarding . Best of all, the prices are extremely reasonable! Lessons start at $24 and an annual ski pass is just $75.

If snow isn’t in the forecast, manmade snow ensures a full winter of fun. The opening of ski season is a huge event in the area. The parks hosts an annual 8k ski race, ski expo , and more the first Saturday in December. Visit their website for more information.

In addition to outdoor fun, the area has a thriving shopping and entertainment area . Visit the Shoppes at Arbor Lakes for local retailers and restaurants like Grey Duck Games & Toys and Patrick’s Bakery Cafe .

If you’ve never played Whirlyball, then a visit to Whirlyball Twin Cities is a must too! So whether you are looking for indoor or outdoor winter fun, you’ll find plenty just outside Minneapolis. Discover 11 more things to do in the northwest Minneapolis suburbs .

Midwest Winter Travel Tip: There’s an old Nordic saying, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, such the wrong clothes.” This is so true and wearing the “right” clothes means wearing layers. Invest in quality base layers to keep you warm and wick away moisture. Favorite brands include Fjällraven and Smartwool . Next add comfortable mid layers and finally great outerwear/coat.

🏨Where To Stay: Hampton Inn Brooklyn Park (4.5 miles from Elm Creek Park Reserve)

Mall of America – Bloomington, Minnesota

The Mall of America is a great place to escape the cold Midwestern winters!  There’s so much to do for all the family.  Not only are there hundreds of stores, you’ll find a huge indoor theme park , complete with a high ropes climbing course and zip lines, not one but TWO mini golf courses, an escape room, an aquarium, go kart tracks and plenty of different restaurants and food outlets to choose from!

I planned my winter getaway to the Twin Cities area around the Hot Chocolate 5k/15k race .  These races take place in various cities around the US during the winter season.

Typically I had to run my 5k in a BLIZZARD but it was a fun experience and all participants receive a personal chocolate fondue kit and a cup of hot chocolate at the end of the race!  There are several Midwest locations including: St Louis, Chicago, (Minneapolis), Kansas City, Oklahoma City and Detroit.

Midwest Winter Travel Tip : The hotel I stayed at in Minnesota had snow shovels and equipment to help guests dig their car out of the snow!  You may have to wait and share with other people but it saves from having to travel with your own giant shovel!

🏨 Where To Stay : Residence Inn by Marriott Minneapolis St Paul/Roseville

Omaha, Nebraska

Suggested by Nikki from She Saves She Travels

If you’re looking for a Midwest destination in the winter time, then Omaha is an excellent choice. Omaha is an affordable city and will surprise you with one of the top 5 zoos in the world! The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the top zoo in the US.

When in Omaha, hang out in America’s largest indoor rainforest  while watching monkeys swing on branches at the Lied Jungle. Experience the depths of the ocean as sharks swim above you at the aquarium. Pet sting rays at the Sting Ray Beach, or even marvel at hundreds of butterflies at the Butterfly Pavilion.

Perhaps the best place to be in the middle of winter? The world’s largest indoor desert , which just happens to be shaped like a dome. It’s the warmest exhibit as you work your way through the zoo.

The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the most Instagrammable spots in Omaha , and rightfully so! My favorite spots to grab incredible photos are the desert dome and jungle.

The Zoo is Nebraska’s largest tourist attraction. But if you go in the winter, it’s way less crowded! Pro tip – buy your tickets online in advance and skip the lines.

🏨 Where To Stay : Red Roof Inn & Suites Omaha – Council Bluffs IA

Eagle River, Wisconsin

Suggested by Chelsey Knuth from The Wisconsinista

Eagle River is located in the northwoods of Wisconsin and holds the honor of being the world’s snowmobile capital . With over 500 miles of groomed trails , there is endless potential for your next winter getaway!

Pro tip: the Polaris Ride Command mobile app uses GPS to track your location on the trails, so it can be a life-saver if you get lost and don’t have cell phone reception.

If you’d rather watch the sport than hop on a sled yourself, be sure to stop by the World Championship Derby Complex on the third Sunday in January to catch the annual World Championship Snowmobile Derby and see a new world champion be crowned.

Cabin-style lodging , like the Wild Eagle Lodge , adds to the cozy ‘up north’ experience and comes highly recommended by any true Wisconsinite. Leif’s Café should be your first breakfast stop, followed by the Country Store for all your sweet treat needs and Williams’s Pine Gables Supper Club for a classic Wisconsin supper club experience.

🏨 Where To Stay : Wild Eagle Lodge

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

The Wilderness is the perfect Wisconsin Dells resort for a Midwest winter getaway.  There are 3 main indoor waterparks with slides that are suitable for adults as well as children. The waterparks are spread out across the complex but are connected by internal hallways, so you don’t have to worry about having to go out into the cold!

Once you’ve had your fix of water slides, the Wilderness also has games arcades, climbing walls, an indoor go kart track, 3D backlit mini golf and a paint your own pottery studio.  The outdoor zip line course is open year round too !

If you decided to head out of the hotel, the Wisconsin Dells is home to a whole range of various other attractions and restaurants as well as nearby by skiing and snow tubing.  The Tommy Bartlett Exploratory is a fun hands on science museum and the Grateful Shed Truckyard (indoor food trucks and bar) as a unique place to eat !

To save money, you could stay at a chain hotel such as the Econo Lodge , buy a day pass to the water park at the Kalahari and explore the rest of what the Wisconsin Dells has to offer!

🏨 Where To Stay : Econo Lodge Inn & Suites (to avoid expensive resort costs!)

Thanks again to all my Midwestern friends for sharing their knowledge!

My travels have taken me to over 40 countries worldwide (& I lived in USA for 4yrs). I hold a BTEC National Diploma in Travel & Tourism (triple distinction) and have been writing on Between England & Everywhere since 2015.

Expert in : Adventure travel 🎢 , beach destinations 🏖️ , and packing light (mid-budget backpacker) 🎒

Inspired to take a Midwest Winter Getaway? Pin it for later!

Last Updated on February 14, 2024

Wow so many places to visit and so little time. Everywhere looks amazing. Especially like the sound of Nebraska and Minnesota as they look a bit more remote. So much snow too.

We’ve already had 3 snow falls in Iowa 🙈 The ski slope opened 2 weeks early too!

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The best road trip stops and routes in the Midwest

From the Great Lakes to local cuisine, this central region offers endless opportunities for every kind of roadtripper

Where can you find grasslands, fossils, sand dunes, and a Stonehenge replica made out of cars? The Midwest, that’s where. Lakeside shorelines are home to summer vacation communities, while heavy snowfall turns mountains into popular skiing and snowboarding destinations. And in the shoulder seasons, springtime blooms and fall foliage turn the landscapes into picture-perfect road trip routes. The Midwest is also home to the beginning section of Route 66 , a can’t-miss for dedicated roadtrippers.

Top road trips in the Midwest

A collection of our favorite road trips to take in the Midwest

Can't-miss stops on a road trip around Lake Michigan

13 activities and events perfect for celebrating fall in the Midwest

13 stops along the Great River Road from Illinois to Iowa

The ultimate Midwest college football stadium tour

6 of the Midwest’s best ski and snowboarding destinations

Route 66 Leg One: Chicago to St. Louis

Extraordinary places in the midwest.

Discover hidden gems, bucket-list-worthy stops, and more

Indiana Dunes National Park

Maquoketa Caves State Park

Mackinac Island

Jolly Green Giant Statue

National park spotlight: Badlands National Park

Badlands offers something for everyone, including hikers, amateur geologists, dinosaur lovers, and stargazers. Wildlife spotters should keep their eyes peeled for American bison, bighorn sheep, and prairie dogs.

Best Midwestern road trips by state

• North Dakota
• South Dakota

Best road trips in Illinois

12 of the ‘World’s Largest’ things tower over the small town of Casey, Illinois

Get your kicks on Illinois's Route 66

5 one-tank road trips from Chicago, Illinois

Yes, Chef: 6 must-visit Chicago eateries to appease fans of ‘The Bear’

Best road trips in indiana.

How to make the most of a road trip to Indiana Dunes National Park

Here's how to fall in love with Indianapolis...in 48 hours

Visiting the ghosts and Gilded Age glamour of Indiana's West Baden Springs Hotel

How Columbus, Indiana, became a living museum of modern architecture

Best road trips in iowa.

Royal flush: Iowa's interstate rest areas are more than just a bathroom break, they're works of art

Come for the alligators and stay for the history at Iowa’s National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium

60 years after 'the day the music died,' rock and roll history lives on in Clear Lake

Best road trips in kansas.

The perfect I-70 road trip through Kansas

Make the most of Kansas' 14 mile stretch of Route 66

History, culture, and basketball: 7 stops on a road trip to Lawrence, Kansas

There's No Place Like Wamego, Kansas's Oz-themed town

Kansas is a fossil hunter's paradise—here's how and where to explore it

From circus attraction to protected mascot to art project: How black squirrels took over a small Kansas town

Best road trips in michigan.

Where to stay, eat, and shop in Frankenmuth, Michigan

5 must-see stops on a road trip through Michigan’s eastern Upper Peninsula

Disco balls and drag queens: Inside a thriving LGBTQ community along the shores of Lake Michigan

The Yoop Loop: Can't-miss stops on a road trip through Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Ditch your car to experience Isle Royale, the least-visited national park in the contiguous U.S.

In Northern Michigan, a fairy tale village of 'Mushroom Houses' tells a story of resilience

Best road trips in minnesota.

Minnesota’s SPAM Museum shines a spotlight on the world’s favorite canned mystery meat

Paying tribute to Prince at Paisley Park, The Artist’s Minnesota studio and home

Paddling through the pandemic in Northeastern Minnesota’s Boundary Waters

Want a unique winter thrill? Try driving an ice road across a frozen lake in Voyageurs National Park

Best road trips in missouri.

Offbeat guide to Kansas City, Missouri

Beyond 'Ozark': 11 must-see natural wonders from the home of the hit Netflix series

Ribs, Rivers, and Really Big Slides: 48 Hours in St. Louis

Crispy edges, classic cars, and a cherry on top: St. Louis’ Chuck-A-Burger thrives on good food and nostalgia

Best road trips in nebraska.

Nebraska's Pompeii: Exploring a prehistoric graveyard at Ashfall Fossil Beds State Historical Park

'Blood, sweat, and beers': Nebraska's Carhenge may be less mysterious than its English counterpart, but it's just as bizarre

600,000 cranes descend upon rural Nebraska during the world’s largest crane migration, and it's a spectacular sight

Best road trips in north dakota.

11 things to do on a North Dakota road trip

Theodore Roosevelt National Park

Best road trips in ohio.

8 great craft breweries to visit in Ohio

Learn about Ohio’s role in abolition at these stops on the Underground Railroad

Serenity and s’mores at the Mohican Treehouse Resort in Ohio’s Amish Country

Top 10 things to do in Ohio

Best road trips in south dakota.

Things to do on a South Dakota RV road trip

Beyond the Black Hills: History covers the walls of South Dakota’s Wall Drug

Inside the excavation of a South Dakota sinkhole that swallowed more than 60 mammoths

The Black Hills come alive as 1,300 bison thunder across the prairie during South Dakota's annual Buffalo Roundup

Best road trips in wisconsin.

A summer road trip guide to Wisconsin’s Door County, the Cape Cod of the Midwest

Eat cheese like a local at these 8 stops along the Wisconsin Cheese Trail

8 stops on a Gilded Age tour of Lake Geneva, known as the 'Newport of the Midwest' 

All aboard the Berry Bus: A trip down Wisconsin's Cranberry Highway

A minimalist’s nightmare: The House on the Rock overwhelms the senses at every turn

Reynold’s Pasty Shop has been feeding northern Milwaukee for six decades

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7 Best Midwest Road Trips in the US

From the Great Lakes to national monuments and roadside kitsch, a road trip is the best way to explore the Midwest.

Flyover country it is not. The Midwest offers a variety of landscapes, ripe for exploration with a classic road trip . From rolling vineyards to lush river valleys, high limestone bluffs to some pretty great lakes, this region of the United States is often overlooked. It's time to change that, so cue up a playlist, pack your favorite snacks, and hit the road on one of these top Midwest road trips, which are sure to highlight the best of America's pulsing, vibrant heartland.

Wisconsin's Great River Road

Start: Prescott, WI End: Kieler, WI Length: 234 miles

The picturesque city of Prescott, situated where the St. Croix River meets the Mississippi River, makes for a great jumping-off point for this road trip. Start at the Great River Road Visitor & Learning Center and drive south along Wisconsin's 250-mile stretch of the National Scenic Byway, which hugs the Mississippi's curves and bluffs. In addition to pretty views, this area of Wisconsin offers unexpected culinary delights in tiny river towns. Bay City's Chef Shack is worth a stop for its lovely back patio and two James Beard Award-nominated chefs at the helm.

Pepin, Wisconsin, located on the widest natural part of the river — the aptly named Lake Pepin — also deserves some attention. There, check out the Harbor View Cafe , which has been impressing visitors since 1980. Meanwhile, fans of the "Little House on the Prairie" books can visit the birthplace of writer Laura Ingalls Wilder , a roughly 10-minute journey inland from Lake Pepin. Continue along the beautiful highway past La Crosse, Wisconsin, then, consider cutting inward to Viroqua, Wisconsin, via State Highway 14. The rolling hills and pastureland of Vernon County are home to the highest concentration of organic farms in the state. Visit the Driftless Cafe , home to another James Beard Award nominee, for the best farm-to-table fare in the region.

Wine lovers should consider hitting some stops on the Great River Road Wine Trail , especially Danzinger Vineyards on the bluff in Alma. Those who prefer a hoppy beverage can stop at the Potosi Brewery near the end of this road trip. The Great River Road stretches beyond Wisconsin, but Kieler is the last stop before it crosses the border and continues on to Iowa's pretty river city of Dubuque. With a total driving time just under five hours, this trip could be done in a day, but most of the attractions are right at the start. A nice way to break it up into a two-day trip is with an overnight stay near the vineyards.

Indiana's Natural Wonders and Small Towns

Start: Indiana Dunes National Park, IN End: Bloomington, IN Length: 288 miles

Begin at the 15,000-acre Indiana Dunes National Park in northwestern Indiana. Situated on Lake Michigan's beautiful southern shore, this area is perfect for birding, beach time, and other activities in nature. From there, drive to the small lake town of Winona Lake to browse the little shops along the waterfront. For an upscale bite, stop into Cerulean , and for more laidback fare, consider the BoatHouse Restaurant . Spend the night two and a half hours south at The Alexander in downtown Indianapolis, both the capital and largest city in the state.

Explore the city using the Canal Walk , visit the acclaimed Indianapolis Children's Museum , scope out some street art , and enjoy a meal at St. Elmo Steak House . For an extra dose of exercise in the city, check out the Monon Rail Trail , a former rail line that stretches from Indy to the northern suburbs. After your time in the capital city, head south to Bloomington, home to Indiana University. This college town offers both a picturesque campus and a walkable downtown area. Continue on to Brown County State Park , the largest in Indiana, which is open for picnicking, hiking, horseback riding, and more.

You'll be on the road for at least five hours on this trip. Considering that you will want a day or two for exploring all Indianapolis has to offer, the trip should be broken up into two legs at least.

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Nebraska's sandhill journey.

Start: Grand Island, NE End: Bayard, NE Length: 335 miles

Begin your journey in Grand Island, an area that truly shines in the spring with the world's largest sandhill crane migration . From there, follow State Highway 2 to Broken Bow, where you can access information on the route at the Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway Visitor Center . Thirsty travelers can imbibe at Kinkaider Brewing Company , which offers a taproom and restaurant in the gateway to the Sandhills.

After indulging responsibly (nominate a designated driver in advance), continue on Highway 2 until you reach the town of Anselmo, where you'll take a slight detour to Victoria Springs State Recreation Area , an oasis known for its healing mineral waters. Here, road-trippers can enjoy activities like paddleboarding, fishing, and picnicking at one of Nebraska's oldest state recreation areas. In the summer season, the park's log cabins make for a fun overnight option and can be reserved up to a year in advance. Pro tip: If you opt for an overnight, be sure to check out the stars without the usual light pollution interference.

End at perhaps the quirkiest attraction on this list, Carhenge , a replica of England's Stonehenge crafted with old cars. Bonus: For those who want a taste of the Oregon Trail, consider a journey to the Chimney Rock National Historic Site in Bayard, less than an hour beyond Alliance.

You'll be on the road for about six hours with this itinerary, with the longest leg being between Anselmo and Alliance. If you take your time at the Sandhills or Victoria Springs, you can break this trip up over two, three, or four days.

Route 66's First Leg

Start: Chicago, IL End: St. Louis, MO Length: 315 miles

Route 66, which runs from Chicago, Illinois , to the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles, is a classic, and you can explore a portion of it in the Midwest. Start in the Windy City, after enjoying some of its famous deep-dish pizza. Additionally, you may want to stop for a photo op at the corner of Michigan and Adams, where the historic "Begin Route 66" sign stands. Then, head to nearby Wilmington to see one of the famed Muffler Men statues, the Gemini Giant, near the charming Launching Pad restaurant. From Wilmington, it's a roughly two-hour drive to the Illinois capitol of Springfield, where history buffs will want to check out the numerous Abraham Lincoln sites. Highlights include the Lincoln Home , his Presidential Library and Museum , and the Lincoln Tomb .

Next, journey onward to St. Louis. Travelers can stretch their legs at the famous Chain of Rocks Bridge, which has since been turned into part of the Route 66 Bikeway. The bridge is even on the National Register of Historic Places. End your intro to Route 66 in luxe fashion with an overnight stay at the surprisingly affordable Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis , a short walk from Gateway Arch National Park . The property boasts a tasty eatery with a James Beard Award-winning chef as well as a full spa. Plus, it's close to another must-visit St. Louis attraction for kids: the interactive City Museum .

Getting from Chicago to St. Louis takes approximately five hours. History buffs may want to spend the night in Springfield to make the most of the Lincoln-related attractions, but an afternoon may be sufficient to pay your respects to the late American president.

Minnesota's North Shore

Start: Duluth, MN End: Grand Portage, MN Length: 112 miles

This drive follows the scenic State Highway 61 along Lake Superior's stunning, rocky shores. Part of the Arrowhead Region in northeast Minnesota, this drive belongs on any U.S. road trip bucket list. Begin in Duluth, Minnesota, which is famous for its breweries and native Bob Dylan, who was born in the city and raised in nearby Hibbing. Walk along Bob Dylan Way for a glimpse of the folk music legend and his childhood home. Consider sipping some artisan spirits at Vikre Distillery , which offers views of the famed Aerial Lift Bridge . To pay homage to the region's Scandinavian roots, sample Vikre's aquavit , also known as "Norwegian Everclear."

For an overnight stay, consider checking vacation rental options in pretty Two Harbors; this town is an excellent base for exploring Gooseberry Falls , Minnesota's most visited state park, and Split Rock Lighthouse , one of the most photographed spots in the state. Road-trippers should also plan to fill up on pizza at longtime favorite Sven and Ole's in Grand Marais.

The whole drive will only take you about two hours if you go straight through, so you could do it as a busy day trip from Duluth, or take your time to enjoy the lake over the course of two or three days. From roughly May to October, intrepid explorers can consider an extension to Michigan's remote and gorgeous Isle Royale National Park . Daily ferry transport is available from Grand Portage, Minnesota, the scenic end point of this North Shore excursion. The ferry takes about two hours, and if you want to spend the night you can find a room or go camping in Rock Harbor or Windigo.

South Dakota's Monuments and Scenery

Start: Sioux Falls, SD End: Mount Rushmore, SD Length: 513 miles

Begin in the state's largest city, Sioux Falls, with a walk around pretty Falls Park . Then, drive to nearby Mitchell, just over an hour away, to visit the quirky and fun attraction that is The World's Only Corn Palace . You can stop for the views as you pass by Badlands National Park , or continue on through Rapid City — where you can visit the state's oldest-operating brewery, Firehouse Brewing Company , for a cold beverage — to the ever-enchanting kitsch of historic Deadwood . Even though it's super-touristy, everyone should visit at least once.

Additionally, visitors can see some gorgeous waterfalls, hiking paths, and rock ridges in Spearfish Canyon , which is actually more ancient than the better-known Grand Canyon. Also, try the well-awarded brews at Spearfish Brewing Company . For those who want an additional taste of the winding road, consider some time on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway . From there, go south to the Crazy Horse Memorial in the town of Crazy Horse, which is the biggest mountain carving on Earth and has been under construction for decades.

If the carved faces of Mount Rushmore , South Dakota's most-visited attraction, are your goal, be sure to take your time when driving on a part of the lovely Peter Norbeck National Scenic Byway . Outdoorsy types may also enjoy a visit to Custer State Park , the largest in the state.

With over nine hours of driving time to complete this trip from Sioux Falls, you will need a few days on the road. Rapid City and Deadwood are good options for overnight stays — especially if your trips are Rushmore-oriented — unless you prefer to do some camping in the parks.

Michigan's Peninsula

Start: Sault Sainte Marie, MI End: Leland, MI Length: 222 miles

Begin in the small town of Sault Ste. Marie , perched between Lake Superior and Lake Huron and adjacent to its Canadian sister city of the same name. Be sure to sample the beer at Soo Brewing Company , shortened to Soo Brew by locals. Also check out the "lynchpin of the Great Lakes," the Soo Locks , except from January through March, when they are closed for repairs. Nature lovers may consider a detour, heading westward first to Michigan's second-largest state park, Tahquamenon Falls State Park , which boasts over 50,000 acres of pristine wilderness, including one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi. It will addd about 75 miles to the trip, however.

For an overnight option to break up the drive, stay at the historic Grand Hotel on carless Mackinac Island (Note: Like many of the Island's businesses, the hotel is only open during the island's high season between May and October). Be sure to build in time to try some of this destination's famous fudge, too. The charming island can be accessed via ferry from Mackinaw City (Lower Peninsula) or St. Ignace (Upper Peninsula). After experiencing some of the delights of the Upper Peninsula, cross the one of the world's longest suspension bridges, the Mackinac Bridge, to Michigan's Lower Peninsula, which everyone calls "the mitten" for its shape. Once you cross the bridge, consider a nighttime visit to nearby Headlands International Dark Sky Park , where it's possible to catch a glimpse of the northern lights if you get very lucky with your timing. If not, you'll still enjoy a brilliant display of stars there.

From the preserve, it's just a two-hour winding lakefront drive to Traverse City, known as Michigan's foodie capital, where you should stop and eat at the French-inspired Brasserie Amie . If you have a sweet tooth, cap off your meal with a stop at the wildly popular Grand Traverse Pie Company . End your trip on the gorgeous Leelanau Peninsula , Michigan's answer to Wisconsin's storied Door County. Check out Leland's Fishtown, take the ferry to the Manitou Islands (part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ), and imbibe at the wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail .

Not including times spent on ferries, the total driving time for this trip is just under five hours, but with so much to see plan to have lots of time saved for dilly-dallying. Three to five nights are ideal so you can really enjoy this itinerary that touches three out of the five Great Lakes .

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6 of the Most Magnificent Midwest Winter Getaways

The Great Lakes, rugged backcountry roads, and vast prairie land lure visitors to the Midwest each year. As temperatures drop and the snow begins to fall, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland. Consider planning the trip of a lifetime to one of these magnificent Midwest winter getaways. Read on for some of our suggestions on where to go this winter.

“To appreciate the beauty of a snowflake it is necessary to stand out in the cold.” — Aristotle 

1. Galena, IL 

Attend holiday events, shop for unique gifts on Main Street, or cozy up by the fire. Galena, IL , is home to a variety of winter activities that will keep you entertained throughout the season. Fresh snow paints a scene that elicits wonder. Outdoor enthusiasts can indulge in skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, ice skating, or even ice golf!

Select Dining Suggestion: In Galena, you’ll find everything from French and German-inspired dishes to mouth-watering Italian plates. Consider eating at Fritz and Frites , Goldmoor Dining , or Fried Green Tomatoes ! 

Where to Stay

Inn at irish hollow, 2. ohio’s hocking hills .

When everything freezes over in the winter, the Hocking Hills of Ohio transform into a winter wonderland. Visit wineries. Indulge in delicious cuisines. For an outdoor adventure among natural wonders , embark on a winter hike, sled at Lake Hope State Park, ice skate on Lake Logan, or go cross-country skiing at Glenlaurel Inn and Cottage ! 

Select Dining Suggestion: Maybe you’re in the mood for smoky BBQ. Perhaps you’re craving a sweet treat. If you find yourself in Hocking Hills, OH, consider visiting Penny’s Pastries for a donut or apple fritter. Millstone Restaurant Smoked BBQ is the place to go for wings, ribs, or pulled pork! 

Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn & Cottages

Unwind in an atmosphere of effortless, old-world elegance at Glenlaurel, A Scottish Inn & Cottages . Choose between 20 inviting accommodations across a sprawling 140-acre estate. Opt for a romantic, richly-appointed room or suite to a secluded croft or cottage! 

3. Ohio Wine Country

For the ultimate food and wine experience , visit Gervasi Vineyard in Canton, OH . There, you can dine at a rustic, upscale Italian Bistro, sip wine at the Crush House (a contemporary winery, wine bar, and eatery), and sample spirits at the Still House (a distillery featuring cocktails and coffee). Additionally, you learn more about their five-acre vineyard, portfolio of wines, and their state-of-the-art winemaking facilities! 

Select Dining Suggestions: If you ever make it off the property to eat somewhere else, try Bender’s Tavern if you’re keeping it upscale or TD’s Tailgate Grill for a more relaxed vibe. 

Where to Stay 

Gervasi vineyard luxury suites.

If you’re going to tour the grounds and taste the wines, you might as well stay. Gervasi Vineyard’s Luxury Suites exude a Tuscan-inspired air. They offer three different ways to stay: in the Villas, in the Casa, or in the Farmhouse! Each boasts various rooms that set the scene for the ultimate getaway. 

Gervasi Vineyard

4. Lake Michigan’s Stafford Bay 

Plush, glistening blankets of snow drape and drizzle a sentimental scene for those looking to enjoy a romantic winter getaway on the shore of Lake Michigan . Couples will find no shortage of things to do in the winter around the area. Take a guided winter rafting trip down the Sturgeon River with Big Bear Adventures. Throw on a pair of snowshoes and trek across vast, white landscapes. Warm up while shopping in Boyne City. Visit Friske Orchards ten miles south of Charlevoix. You might even enjoy taking a winter horseback ride at Boyne Highlands! 

Stafford’s Bay View Inn 

Stay in this gorgeous, Petoskey, MI mansion on the lake. Stafford’s Bay View Inn offers attentive service, country inn dining, and elegant accommodations to ensure that your stay in this relaxed, historic setting remains a pleasant memory for years to come! 

Stafford’s Bay View Inn

5. Door County, WI 

Visit quiet Door County, WI , on the peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Here, you will encounter a diverse range of cultures and their influences from Native Americans as well as Belgian immigrants. Visit sites such as the Pioneer Schoolhouse and the Belgian Heritage Center to learn more about the region’s history. Then, spend some time gazing up at the twinkling stars beneath the cold, winter night sky in the evenings. 

Select Dining Suggestions: For authentic Swedish cuisine, Al Johnson’s where goats graze atop its sod roof. You might also like to try fried cheese curds, beer cheese soup, or Colby cheese while you’re in Wisconsin! 

Hillside Waterfront Hotel

Stay in one of the oldest buildings in Ephraim, Wisconsin. Hillside Waterfront Hotel boasts a history back to 1890 and earned its place on the National Register of Historic Places! In fact, much of the village was built around this beautiful mansion, which makes it easy for guests to explore nearby attractions. 

Hillside Waterfront Hotel  

6. Pleasanton, Kansas

Known for its tranquil landscapes and warm hospitality, this quaint town offers a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. In winter, Pleasanton transforms into a picturesque wonderland, inviting guests to explore its scenic trails, cozy up by crackling fires, and savor local flavors at charming cafes. Whether it's a peaceful weekend getaway or a chance to reconnect with nature, Pleasanton promises a rejuvenating escape where visitors can unwind and create lasting memories amidst a welcoming community that embodies warmth and genuine hospitality.

Cedar Crest Lodge This 111 acre property offers breathtaking views, serene walking trails, and a tranquil outdoor pool and hot tub. The perfect place for a romantic, nature-inspired, all-inclusive getaway.  Cedar Crest Lodge

Additional Romantic Winter Getaway Resources 

• 6 of the Most Romantic Winter Cabin Getaways in the US 
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12 Best Road Trips in the Midwest

The midwest portion of the u.s. is often called flyover country, but make no mistake, this region is gorgeous from the ground — and that means a lot of great rving opportunities..

• 1.1 1. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota
• 1.2 2. Badlands to Black Hills, South Dakota
• 1.3 3. Route 66, Illinois
• 1.4 4. Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
• 1.5 5. Flint Hills, Kansas
• 1.6 6. Parke County, Indiana
• 1.7 7. Historic Hills Scenic Byway, Iowa
• 1.8 8. U.S. 12 Heritage Trail, Michigan
• 1.9 9. The Ozarks, Missouri
• 1.10 10. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway
• 1.11 11. Antique Alley, Indiana
• 1.12 12. Lake Superior Circle Tour
• 1.13 Ready to Plan an RV Trip? Here's the tool we use:

Miles of sun-kissed farmland and crystal clear lakes frame the view out your windshield while some of the slower scenic routes — from the rolling Flint Hills of Kansas and Ozark mountains in Missouri to the tranquil covered hedges of Indiana and thundering waterfalls in Minnesota — can be seen just off the exit ramp.

No matter if it's a week-long journey around the rocky shores of Lake Superior or a quick day trip to a local state park, the United States' middle corridor has plenty to offer outdoors enthusiasts and backyard explorers alike. Here, some of the best Midwest road trips to get your wheels turning, thanks, in part, to the folks at BestLife.com .

1. Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

Start : Duluth, Minnesota

End : Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

Distance : 145 miles

From Duluth, drive Highway 61 alongside the rocky beach of America's largest Great Lake, Lake Superior. The trip up Minnesota's North Shore is short — just under 150 miles — but there's plenty to see. If it's summer, explore the beaches with black sands (Black Beach) and pink pebbles (Iona's Beach), or pull over at Gooseberry Falls State Park  to take a dip in the pool at the base of a spectacular  waterfall  or hike the 18 miles of trails. There are several other panoramas along the way, including your last stop at  Grand Portage State Park by Canada's border — as well as gorgeous views via a two-mile gondola ride in Lutsen. 

2. Badlands to Black Hills, South Dakota

Start : Badlands, South Dakota

End : Black Hills, South Dakota

Distance : 130 miles

The Badlands has an otherworldly feel to it thanks to its multicolored peaks and vast volcanic rock landscape. Go slow and take your time meandering down the 40-mile scenic byway (SD 240), especially during dusk when the national park turns molten gold and dusty pink. From here, continue on to Rapid City for an overnight before exploring the  Black Hills National Forest the next day. This 1.2 million-acre region is home to some of America's must-see sites, such as Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Further north beyond Sturgis, Bear Butte State Park  is a beautiful place for a hike, and a sacred spot for Native Americans.

3. Route 66, Illinois

Start : Chicago, Illinois

End : Collinsville, Illinois

Distance : 300 miles

Route 66 is one of the quintessential American road trips, and no chapter of it is so charming — and underrated — as its path through Illinois, where there's enough retro kitsch to give you Instagram content for days. The Mother Road begins at the Route 66 sign on E. Jackson Boulevard in Chicago. You'll meander 300 miles south to St. Louis, passing 1940s diners, antique stores, gas stations, and drive-in movie theaters straight out of a vintage advertisement. Pro tip: Keep an eye out for the almost 30-foot-tall Gemini Giant  in Wilmington, Illinois.

4. Milwaukee to the Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Start : Milwaukee, Wisconsin

End : Wisconsin Dells

Distance : 121 miles

Kick off the journey in Milwaukee, Wisconsin's brewing capital, where you can tour the  MillerCoors Brewery  and  Pabst Mansion , the former 19th-century home of Pabst Brewing founder Captain Frederick Pabst. Then, three hours northwest, the Waterpark Capital of the World is the perfect family-friendly getaway. A few of the  Wisconsin Dells  parks merit superlatives: America's largest outdoor  water park  (Noah's Ark), America's largest resort water park (Wilderness Waterpark Resort), and America's largest wave pool (also at Wilderness Waterpark Resort) lie along your route. However, the outdoors activities in the area make it an autumn and spring destination, too: Be sure to stop by the  Wisconsin Deer Park , where kids can feed Wasa crackers to free-roaming deer. Be sure to check out this previous Off the Beaten Path report on the Dells from RV Lifestyle. 

5. Flint Hills, Kansas

Start : Flint Hills, Kansas

End : Wichita, Kansas

Distance : 190 miles

The 190-mile trip through the endless undulations of the Flint Hills is a spectacular sight almost any time of year, though spring and fall show the area's colors at their best. Soak up the scenery at the 11,000-acre Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve  outside of Strong City, or take a detour on Rte. 901 to visit the 8,600-acre  Konza Prairie research preserve . Head another two hours south to arrive in Wichita, Kansas' largest city that features craft breweries, a Frank Lloyd Wright house museum, and striking street art in the Douglas Design District.

6. Parke County, Indiana

Start : Tangier, Indiana

End : Bridgeton, Indiana

Distance : 55 miles

Indiana's Parke County winds through 31 covered bridges, making it a spectacularly scenic drive — especially in October, when the Covered Bridge Festival draws local artisans, craftspeople, and farmers to showcase their produce and goods during peak fall foliage. Make sure to look out for the horse-drawn carriages frequently spotted in the countryside as well as the 19th-century general stores, mills, and log cabins in small towns like Mansfield and Bridgeton. 

7. Historic Hills Scenic Byway, Iowa

Start : Moravia, Iowa

End : Donnellson, Iowa

Distance : 110 miles

This route is full of historic sites, including Iowa's oldest courthouse and the state's only Civil War battlefield. But this area of Iowa also boasts three state parks, including a resort state park. It's worth taking a couple of days to drive the 110 miles of the highway, since there's so much to do, from fishing on the River Water trail and canoeing in the Lacey-Keosauqua State Park  to checking out the 100-plus Amish and Mennonite businesses around Drakesville and Bloomsfield.

8. U.S. 12 Heritage Trail, Michigan

Start : New Buffalo, Michigan

End : Detroit, Michigan

Distance : 180 miles

For one of the Midwest's quirkier road trips, consider the US 12 Heritage Trail , a.k.a. “Michigan's Largest Garage Sale.” Admittedly, this one takes some timing — the sale happens over a long weekend in August each year — but it's worth clearing your calendar for. Over three days, vendors line a 180-mile stretch of highway from New Buffalo to Detroit selling everything from antiques to homegrown vegetables. And no, the “heritage trail” distinction has nothing to do with Americans' love of a good bargain: It refers to the ancient Native American  trail the highway now covers (even further back, it was a part of a mastodon corridor, which drew the indigenous people who hunted them).

9. The Ozarks, Missouri

Start : Sullivan, Missouri

End : Lake Ozark, Missouri

Distance : 310 miles

With about 310 miles of routes and eye-popping side trips, Missouri's beautiful Ozark mountains, forests, and lakes offer up a bounty of natural attractions. Explore the  Onondaga Caves , the remnants of a sea that once covered the region, camp in the 1.5-million acre  Mark Twain National Forest , or bear witness to history at the  Indian Trail Conservation Area , which includes a stretch of the Trail of Tears. Be sure to check out this previous RV Lifestyle Off the Beaten Path report on Missiouri's caves. 

10. Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway

Start : Blakely, Minnesota

End : Ortonville, Minnesota

Distance : 287 miles

This 287-mile trip is a highlight reel of Minnesota's rivers and waterfronts. You can see it from behind the steering wheel, or make a pitstop and hike the trails in the six state parks that intercept  the byway . The area has a rich history as homeland to the Dakota people, whose name for the area is “Mni Sóta Maḳoce” (“the land where the water reflects the sky”); learn about their traditions and history at the  Lower Sioux Agency . There are also farm museums, historical homes, and Minnesota's oldest brewery,  August Schell Brewing Company .

11. Antique Alley, Indiana

Start : Richmond, Indiana

End : Knightstown or Portland, Indiana

Distance : 80 miles

T he so-called  “Antique Alley” of eastern Indiana is an 80-mile loop where more than 1,200 antique dealers have set up shop. The Historic Richmond Depot District, a thriving neighborhood in Richmond with some great restaurants, is worth an afternoon lunch stop before setting out to shop. Choose from two different trails: Trail one takes you from Richmond west to Knightstown via the Historic National Road U.S. 40, then back to your starting point on SR 38. The star attraction: Cambridge City, with two blocks of shops including 13 antique stores. The other trail takes you north from Richmond to Portland on US 27, with 25 antiques shops dotting the roadside.

12. Lake Superior Circle Tour

End : Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan

Distance : 1,300 miles

If you have some time, take the long way around Lake Superior on the Circle Tour , a 1,300-mile stretch of stunning shoreline in Wisconsin, Ontario, Minnesota, and Michigan. Mid-June is a great time to catch festivals before summer's peak tourist season begins, but if don't mind cooler temps, late September is ideal for seeing the leaves change. If you can't make the entire tour, any of the individual state segments merit a vacation of their own, as you can see in the video we did below for Superior's Wisconsin and Minnesota north shore. 

Ready to Plan an RV Trip? Here's the tool we use:

Planning an RV Trip has never been easier than with  RV TripW izard . It is a comprehensive tool that Jennifer and I use whenever we are planning a trip. It works seamlessly with all our devices and gives us access to the info we need on where to stop, what camping is nearby and what we should do in an area.

Best of all, you can try it for free to see how it will fit into your trip planning process.

Published on 2020-01-12

Mike Wendland is a multiple Emmy-award-winning Journalist, Podcaster, YouTuber, and Blogger, who has traveled with his wife, Jennifer, all over North America in an RV, sharing adventures and reviewing RV, Camping, Outdoor, Travel and Tech Gear for the past 12 years. They are leading industry experts in RV living and have written 18 travel books.

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The 8 Best Road Trips to Take in the Midwest

Hit the road and discover the Midwest! From Great Lakes and rivers to rolling hills, wide-open plains and lush forests, there’s plenty of ground to cover. Whether you’re up for a long weekend road trip or a short Sunday drive, set a course for the middle section of the United States and get out there to explore some of the most diverse scenic terrains in the country. Here are eight Midwestern journeys of varying lengths and distances worth considering.

Illinois’s Route 66 Heritage Project

Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Center

Without a doubt, Route 66 holds undisputed rank as the most iconic stretch of road in the United States. Brimming with Americana culture, the stories of the Mother Road come alive via the initial leg that starts in Chicago and runs 300 miles across Illinois to St. Louis. Start the journey by snapping a selfie in front of the "Begin Route 66" sign across from the Art Institute of Chicago, then journey west to lunch in Willowbrook at Del Rhea's Chicken Basket. Next up, pay your respects to Jake and Elwood at the Joliet Correctional Center before passing through Pontiac, where you'll find the Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum. Keep your eyes peeled for quirky roadside fixtures like the oversized Muffler Men statues and smiley-face water tower in Atlanta before arriving in Springfield, the Land of Lincoln. From there, it's just a hop, skip, and a jump to charming Litchfield and the picturesque Chain of Rocks pedestrian bridge that crosses over the Mississippi River into Missouri. Feeling ambitious? You can always extend the trip and get your kicks by continuing to the route's terminus in Santa Monica, California.

Ohio’s Hocking Hills Scenic Byway

ExploreHockingHills.com 

Nestled into the foothills of greater Appalachia, southeastern Ohio’s Hocking Hills region lies just 40 miles south of Columbus. A lasting product of the Ice Age, Adena mound builders and Native American tribes, this land features rolling terrain, Blackhand sandstone gorges, rock ledges and cliffs, recessed caves, and photogenic waterfalls. The 26-mile byway that runs along State Route 374 winds through a beautiful cross-section of nature to appreciate (watch out for unexpected deer crossings). Stop and stretch your legs on a handful of state park hiking trails, kayak on one of several bucolic lakes, or rent a cozy cabin and stay a few days for a closer exploration of the area. 

Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Byway

Explore Minnesota 

Chart a course for Duluth, where you can embark upon a memorable 145-mile journey that skirts along the edge of Lake Superior up to Grand Portage at the Canadian border. You’ll want to take your time to take in the gorgeous North Shore views, particularly during the fall when the foliage lights up in magical seasonal hues. Photo opportunities along the byway include towering bluffs that frame rushing rivers and streams underneath, rugged hiking paths and bike trails, lighthouses, and the magnificent Lutsen Mountains ski paradise. Plan to pit stop and enjoy a breather, a self-guided waterfalls tour and a picnic lunch at Gooseberry Falls State Park.

South Dakota’s Badlands Loop Scenic Byway

Travel South Dakota 

Anyone who’s ever made the patriotic pilgrimage to Mount Rushmore comes away impressed by the otherworldly Badlands geography, a transformative scope of grassy stretches and startling rock buttes, mounds, and peaks. Throughout the 39-mile SD Highway 240 journey between Wall and Cactus Flat across Badlands National Park, 16 designated overlooks provide opportunities to stop and marvel at the surreal views. If you choose to stop and hike, keep your eyes peeled for appearances by the indigenous wildlife—buffalo, prairie dogs, mule deer, and antelope, to name just a few. The Minuteman Missile Visitor Center and the Ben Reifel Visitor Center are great spots to load up on helpful maps and advice. 

Iowa’s Covered Bridges Scenic Byway

Travel Iowa 

“The Bridges of Madison County” celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2020, making this year the perfect time to plan a road trip to Iowa. Spanning 82 miles through a peaceful rural farming landscape, the Covered Bridges Scenic Byway guides adventurers past a number of the sites commemorated in the film. The county’s collection of historic bridges dates back to construction between 1870 and 1884, all celebrated during an annual festival each October. For those who believe in ghosts, Roseman Bridge (featured prominently in the movie) is rumored to be haunted. Keep the cinematic theme going with a visit to Winterset, John Wayne’s birthplace anchored by a friendly town square full of mom-and-pop shops and restaurants.

Wisconsin’s Door County Coastal Byway

Destination Door County 

With 66 miles of road to cover and discover, the Door County Byway wows with waterfront views both up and down the eastern Wisconsin peninsula. Kick off the trip in Sturgeon Bay heading north up State Highway 57 skirting Lake Michigan to Gils Rock at the tip, then looping back down south along the Niagara Escarpment bluffs of State Highway 42 on the Green Bay side to come full circle at the starting point. County parks, state parks, lighthouses, charming towns and villages all merit stopping to explore; keep your tank full and your spirits high by feasting on cherries, Door County’s signature crop, at cute local eateries and diners.

Kansas’s Flint Hills Scenic Byway

Credit: Kansas State Tourism 

Craving wide open spaces? The Flint Hills Byway clocks in at a quick 48 miles in length, but you’ll want to allow a full day to stop and experience the historic sites, vistas, and small towns as you go. Billing itself as the gateway to the tallgrass prairie, the byway offers expansive panoramic views of the Great Plains. The Kaw, Osage, and other Native American tribes populated this land centuries ago, leaving indelible footprints and impressions that still resonate today. Starting from Council Grove, the byway follows K-177 south past the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve and over the Cottonwood River to Cassoday.

Michigan’s Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Credit: Amy Lynch 

The route may be just 7.4 miles long, but the views of Lake Michigan you’ll discover on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive loop make it all worthwhile. Lush forest falls away to reveal breathtaking vantage points of the vivid blue water from way up high as you make your way along the twisting, turning tour, part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park. Keep the glow going with a jaunt up M-22 through lovely Glen Arbor and Leland’s historic Fishtown village, then cross the peninsula to Sutton’s Bay and travel down the west arm of the Grand Traverse Bay coastline to Traverse City. 

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12 Epic Midwest Family Road Trips

From gorgeous state parks to charming towns and bustling cities, there’s nothing quite as nostalgic as driving through the American Midwest .

While most travelers to the USA usually target its bustling cities and gorgeous coasts the Midwest still remains pretty overlooked on most visitors’ radar. Still, this gorgeous region of America is definitely worth exploring, especially for those yearning for an epic road trip filled with excitement, majestic vistas, and spots that give you that back-in-time feeling.

From roads that will have you driving through haunted places in Missouri to chasing waterfalls across Ohio, here are a few of the most epic Midwest road trips that need to be on your radar!

12 Epic Midwest Road Trips

1. chicago to st. louis on route 66, 2. st. louis to kansas city, 3. sault sainte marie to leland michigan road trip, 4. iowa nature adventure, 5. missouri ghost town trail, 6. west virginia midland trail, 7. milwaukee to the wisconsin dells, 8. iowa great river road, 9. post-rock scenic byway in kansas, 10. old red-old ten scenic byway in north dakota, 11. black hills & badlands in south dakota, 12. ohio waterfall road trip.

• More to know before hitting the road in the Midwest

On the lookout for the ultimate Midwest road trip? Look no further than the classic Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri, which is also known as “The Mother Road”.

Route 66 actually starts in Chicago and runs all the way to Santa Monica on the West Coast, but if you don’t want to go the entire way, focusing on the Midwest part of the road trip is enough to experience some of the best it has to offer.

Simply put, there is probably no road trip in the entire USA that is as full of classic Americana as the so-called “King of All Roads”. The Midwest portion between Chicago and St. Louis doesn’t slack when it comes to old-fashioned diners, classic service stations, family owned-cafes, cornfields, sleepy towns, and tons of kitschy landmarks.

Start in Chicago, where you can see all the city highlights like the Sears Tower and the Buckingham Fountain before heading to the corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Adams Street, where you’ll find the iconic “Route 66 Starts Here” sign!

Continue onwards to Lyons and check out the Hoffman Tower. Next, head to Joliet and take some time to visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum before hopping back into the car. Along the way, make a stop in the town of Bloomington, where you can stretch your legs by visiting the emblematic Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Other unique sights and landmarks you’ll find along the way are the Railsplitter Covered Wagon and the Watermelon Lincoln Monument in Lincoln, the World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle, the Our Lady of the Highway Shrine, the Soulsby Service Station, and so much more!

Once you catch a glimpse of St. Louis Arch, you’ll know the journey is over, but even then, you’ll still find plenty of incredible things to do in St. Louis to make parting a lil’ easier. For a quintessential Midwest experience (and a great excuse to toast the end of this Midwest road trip), don’t miss out on sipping a few beers at the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Starting in St. Louis and ending in Kansas City, this route will take you through some of the most culture-filled cities and quintessential wild terrain in the southern part of the Midwest.

Start off in St. Louis, where you can spend the day checking out the iconic Gateway Arch over the Mississippi River and a couple of unique museums. From here, head to the Lake of the Ozarks , where you’ll get to bask in some serious lakeside fun with gorgeous views all over.

The city of Columbia is next on the itinerary, where you’ll get to choose from a ton of different activities ranging from outdoor adventures at the nearby Finger Lakes State Park to an afternoon spent checking out local works of art at the Columbia Art League .

Cap off your Kansas road trip touring Kansas City’s numerous memorials and statues. Then, change the mood at the American Jazz Museum and take a stroll through Kansas City’s 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District to finish one of the best Midwest road trips with a bang!

Driving from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula is a jaw-dropping experience and one of the best drives in the Midwest. Starting in Sault Sainte Marie and ending in Leland, it’s hard to beat the majestic wilderness that you’ll get to gawk at the entire way.

Begin in Sault Sainte Marie, a sleepy town perched between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, an ideal lake vacation spot in the Midwest!

From there, head to Tahquamenon Falls State Park for a chance to spend a few hours gazing at striking waterfalls before heading to St. Ignace to hop on the ferry to Mackinac Island. After exploring the island, get ready to cross the Mackinac Bridge to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, which is commonly dubbed “the mitten” because of its shape.

A must-visit spot in this area of the Midwest is the Headlands International Dark Sky Park for an unforgettable night of stargazing. If you get lucky, you might even get a glimpse of the northern lights!

After a night spent gawking at the stars, you’ll likely feel a bit hungry, so next on your itinerary is Traverse City, which is considered the foodie capital of Michigan! After gorging on as many dishes as you can, head over to Leland where you can explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to end this epic Midwest road trip.

Bonus detour: If you have the time, make a small detour by driving the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail , where you’ll get to try the local wines at various estates. Can you think of a better way to close out this marvelous road trip?!

Longer to spend in Michigan? Check out some of the best beach towns along the Michigan coast , or our complete collection of scenic driving routes in Michigan

Even though the state of Iowa is often overlooked on most Midwest road trips, the Hawkeye State is actually a place that brims with natural gems if you just know where to look!

Start at Decorah’s Ice Cave , an ice cave you can explore in just a few minutes but acts as a super epic way to begin this Midwest road trip. From there, head over to Dunning’s Springs Park, where you’ll find a striking 200-feet waterfall hidden amid a charming forest.

Next on the itinerary is Effigy Mounds National Monument , which homes over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans centuries ago. Although American Indian ceremonial mounds can be found in several locations, Effigy Mounds National Monument harbors many that are shaped like animals!

Another natural highlight deserving a spot in your Iowa road trip is Maquoketa Caves State Park . Here, you can hike and explore tons of caves scattered throughout. Finish your trip at Wildcat Den State Park , where nature and history make a perfect mix that will allow you to hike to stunning geological formations on sandstone bluffs and learn about Iowa’s past at the Pine Creek Grist Mill.

If you’re a fan of the paranormal, this Missouri Ghost Town Road Trip is sure to please.

This unique scenic road trip will have you exploring some of the most haunted places in Missouri, some of which flourished when Route 66 was opened in 1926 and later abandoned when the interstates were built, and Route 66 was rerouted.

The first stop in this spooky Midwest road trip is Arlington , which was a thriving resort town back in the 1860s before it was forgotten and left to deteriorate. The town of Bloodland is next, which was abandoned during World War II and wiped out from the map, leaving only a church bell. Rumor has it that angry displaced residents have haunted the area ever since!

If you’re feeling brave, continue on I-44 until you find the only remains of Possum Trot, a church and a house that sit quietly eight miles southwest of Nixa, where ghost sightings have been reported time after time.

From here, head west to Monark Springs , a small town that was abandoned after a typhoid outbreak in the 1950s. Finally, end your spooky road trip in Georgia City, where the cemetery is all that remains from the once-prosperous town that thrived in the 1860s.

119 miles of pure wild beauty is what the West Virginia Midland Trail is all about.

Winding through rolling hills, dreamy forests, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic lakes, this scenic byway will take you from one end of West Virginia to the opposite, all while giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and park your car to go on a hike, see plenty of historic sites, and more.

Moreover, there are plenty of farmlands and small towns scattered all over that provide that old country charm. Hico, Ansted, Gauley Bridge, and Mt. Carbons are only some of the spots where you can stop and stretch your legs a bit, grab a bite, or spend the night before hopping back on your car and turning the music back on – preferably John Denver!

This is one of the best Midwest road trips for discovering the highlights of Wisconsin, taking you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ending in the stunning Wisconsin Dells, one of the best family vacation spots in the Midwest .

Take in the highlights of Milwaukee from the food and breweries to its history and gallereis – don’t forget the Harey-Davidson Museum before hitting the road.

Following Lake Michigan to Green Bay you’ll pass through scenic towns such as Port Washington. Make sure to stop in at the Heritage Hill State Historical Park – and maybe catch a Green Bay Packers game?

The Wisconsin Dells await next – the kids will no doubt have their wishlist for “ the Waterpark Capital of the World “, but there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to enjoy. Make some time for a scenic boat tour and try one of the many wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Devil’s Lake State Park is the perfect way to finish your Wisconsin Road Trip.

The Iowa portion of the Great River Road follows the great Mississippi River from Iowa’s northern to southern borders. Another classic Midwest road trip, this route will take you past beautiful landscapes such as farmlands, forests, and sheer bluffs where tons of eagles soar up high.

Along the way, you’ll also find many charming river towns with friendly people and interesting sites worth checking out. Think Al Capone’s hideout – the Julien Hotel in Dubuque – or Le Claire’s famous vintage shops, including the one featured in American Pickers!

Other points of interest along the Iowa Great River Road are Pikes Peak, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , Eagle Point Park, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that winds through the Smoky Hills and Wilson Lake.

Even though it’s only 18 miles long, this route doesn’t slack in beautiful vistas and amazing points of interest. As a fun fact, the Post Rock Scenic Byway was named after the limestone rock posts used by Native Americans to build their homes and fences back in the day, some of which you can still admire today!

An important part of the Post-Rock Scenic Byway surrounds Lake Wilson, with many options for scenic stops and trails available for hiking in case you want to linger a while. At the end of the road trip, you’ll also get the chance to explore Lucas, an artistic small town that harbors several galleries and the well-known Garden of Eden, which features more than 150 statues!

Check out even more incredible Kansas scenic driving routes and byways over here

Running parallel to Interstate 94, the Old Red Trail will show you some of the best North Dakota has to offer, ranging from charming farm scenery to clear blue skies, vintage eateries, and quaint little shops filled with treasures to be found. This road is all about taking your time, driving slowly, and enjoying a ride that will make you feel as though you traveled back in time!

Once you pass Hebron, be on the lookout for the Richardton and Schnell Recreation Area , a 2,000-acre nature preserve where you can hit a few hiking trails in order to explore North Dakota’s unraveled nature. Other must-stops are Assumption Abbey in Richardton and Salem Sue, a giant Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture.

This family road trip includes some of the most iconic landmarks of the Midwest, and some of the most scenic drives.

A classic South Dakota road trip will see you start in Rapid City before traversing the incredible scenery and rugged beauty of Badlands National Park . Make sure to stop in at Wall Drug before venturing west to the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs.

Wind Cave National Park will be your next South Dakota stop. Explore one of the country’s oldest national parks with its fascinating and complex cave system.

Mount Rushmore, along with Crazy Horse Memorial are undoubtedly going to be your next stops. You can see the Presidents’ heads up close on the 0.6-mile Presidential Trail, a short trail walk, or seek out the overlook on SD-244 to see Washington’s profile from a distance. Come on a summer’s evening to witness “Legends in Light” laser light show on the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Make sure to finish your trip with the Peter Norbek Scenic Byway to experience the Cathedral Spires of Custer State Park, often regarded as one of the country’s best scenic byways.

Last but not least, no trip to the Midwest is complete without exploring the stunning waterfalls of Ohio. The Ohio Waterfall Road Trip is the perfect route to take in order to explore the best of them!

Most of Ohio’s finest waterfalls can be found inside state parks, many of which you’ll get the chance to stop at as you drive this Midwest road trip. The Mohican State Park is a must-do stop where you’ll get the chance to see two falls, Big and Little Lyon Falls.

Next on the itinerary, head over to Cuyahoga National Park , where aside from getting plenty of incredible hiking ops, you’ll also get to see the striking 65-feet tall Brandywine Falls. You’ll find the best colors and climate in the fall.

To end your scenic drive in Ohio , drive over to Hocking Hills State Park , which harbors three gorgeous falls and a hiking trail that is commonly ranked as the best in the entire of Ohio!

We hope this list of the most epic Midwest road trips inspired you to grab your car keys, play some Johnny Cash tunes, and hit the road!

More To Know Before Hitting The Road In The Midwest

• Be careful of your time zones traveling through the Midwest! Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky , and Indiana follow Eastern time, whereas Wisconsin, Illinois, the Dakotas, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri are in Central.
• Never forget an important road trip essential again! Download our family road trip checklist to help you pack for your next big adventure.

Which of these Midwest road trips catch your eye the most? I’d love to know which ones you’re most excited to drive, so let me know all about your plans in the comment section below!

• Sensational Scenic Drives In The Deep South
• 6 Sensational Drives Not to Miss In Arkansas
• Try These Terrific Day Trip Ideas From Chicago
• You’ll Want to Undertake These Idyllic Indiana Road Trips

© Family Road Trip 2024

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The gorgeous scenery on the shores of Lake Superior is punctuated by worthwhile stopping points like Grand Marais Lighthouse.

Photo by Craig Hinton/Shutterstock

Comprising 12 states that include the Great Lakes, scenic state parks, and an array of world-class cities like Chicago, Minneapolis, and Kansas City, the Midwest is one of the most exciting road-trip regions in the United States. And while any time of year is a good season to explore America’s Heartland, summer offers some of the best adventures, thanks to prized hikes and trails, top-down temps, and beckoning beaches. From waterfalls and winding rivers to award-winning dining and drinking, drives in this region offer it all. Here are some of the best Midwest road trips to take right now.

Get your road-trip cherries at Friske.

Courtesy of Friske Farm Market

Traverse City to Charlevoix, Michigan

• Distance: 50 miles
• Start: Traverse City, Michigan
• End: Charlevoix, Michigan

Take US-31 north from Traverse City and watch the route evolve from bay views to farms, forests, and countryside. Stop at Friske Farm Market along the way for souvenir shopping and cherry picking (prime during summer months), then hit Bier , an art gallery featuring local works alongside an onsite brewery. Situated on three lakes, Charlevoix is a must for water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding, not to mention its vibrant local arts and dining scene (read: freshly caught fish aplenty). Upon arrival, check into Hotel Earl , which was originally built in 1959 by lauded local architect Earl Young and redesigned in 2019. Come happy hour, head to Stafford’s Weathervane for epic lakefront views and fresh-catch options

When you make the trek back to Traverse City, don’t miss the chance to enjoy a burger at Oakwood Proper Burgers or dine at Farm Club , a farm, restaurant, brewery, bakery, and marketplace, where nearly everything is locally grown. The menu features updated takes on Midwestern classics, like cheese curd grits polenta, seared walleye, and beer-vinegar-pickled egg and rye.

Elkhart Lake offers appealing canoeing opportunities.

Courtesy of Travel Wisconsin

Chicago to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

• Distance: 163 miles
• Start: Chicago, Illinois
• End: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Rev your engines in Chicago and head due north, passing several of the city’s prettiest suburbs on the way. (For an early break, consider tea at Lake Forest’s legendary Deer Path Inn , set among sprawling green parks and lakefront landmarks.) An hour past Milwaukee, you’ll find Kohler, a town in Sheboygan County that’s home to Kohler Company manufacturing and the American Club Resort Hotel at Destination Kohler , a five-star resort boasting seven restaurants, two golf courses, and a state-of-the-art spa. If you’re seeking a bit of quiet seclusion, consider booking one of the property’s five cabins, which include full kitchens, firepits, and ample outdoor space.

Continue your travels by driving 20 miles northwest to Elkhart Lake, a waterfront village with serious hospitality. The Osthoff Resort is situated on more than 500 feet of pristine sandy shoreline and is a go-to for lakefront activities such as kayaking, paddleboating, and hydro-biking.

When evening rolls around, head downtown to the Paddock Club for seasonal small plates, like burrata with smashed peas and shaved asparagus or Calabrese cauliflower, followed by cocktails at the racing-themed Stop-Inn Tavern at Siebkens Resort. Rise early the next day for a hike around LaBudde Creek State Wildlife Area or a relaxing treatment at Osthoff’s Aspira Spa .

The Lake Shore Resort on Lake Michigan is only three miles from downtown Saugatuck.

Courtesy of Lake Shore Resort

Indianapolis, Indiana, to Saugatuck, Michigan

• Distance: 225 miles
• Start: Indianapolis, Indiana
• End: Saugatuck, Michigan

Indianapolis is a destination in its own right, so linger at the start and try lunch at the James Beard Award–nominated Milktooth , a modern-day diner with options like carrot cake waffles, sweet potato latkes, and hot honey chicken wings. Then hit US-31 for a few adventures—the first at Grissom Air Museum (75 miles north of Indy), which houses Cold War–era aircraft, and the next at Lake Manitou , about 30 miles north of there.

Once at the beach town of Saugatuck, check in at the Lake Shore Resort , then head to Oval Beach, considered one of the nation’s best for its low-key vibes and stellar sunsets. Saugatuck is known best for its waterfront charm, but don’t overlook its farm-to-table dining and bustling arts community. In addition to Saugatuck Center for the Arts , it’s home to the celebrated Ox-Bow School of Art and Artists’ Residency , where you can join in a workshop or shop in the gallery.

Those looking to continue a chilled-out itinerary can enjoy Wicks Park Gazebo Music in the Park before dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants; try Bowdie’s Chophouse , for wedge salads and shrimp cocktail, or Salt of the Earth in nearby Fennville, which also hosts live Americana and roots music. Come morning, buy a pick-me-up from Pennyroyal Café and Provisions , where chef Melissa Corey offers hearty fare like Johnnycakes and smoked whitefish croissant sandwiches.

The harbor town of Grand Marais is a good place to stretch your legs.

Courtesy of Dillon Austin/Unsplash

Duluth to Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

• Distance: 150 miles
• Start: Duluth, Minnesota
• End: Grand Portage State Park, Minnesota

This 150-mile route departs from the increasingly cool port city of Duluth , which overlooks the pristine waters of Lake Superior and is known for its iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. At just under three hours each direction, the trip can be done as a day trip or you can linger longer to make a weekend out of it. From Duluth, hop on MN-61 north, hugging the lakeshore and stopping in charming harbor towns like Grand Marais and dramatic wilderness areas like Tettegouche State Park .

Your destination is Grand Portage State Park , right along the Canadian border. The park is home to Minnesota’s tallest waterfall, hiking trails, and wildlife like eagles, moose, and otters. It’s also the only state park in Minnesota located on tribal land, and in the welcome center, you can learn about the culture and history of the Grand Portage band of the Ojibwe. Nearby, stop into Grand Portage National Monument , a reconstructed 18th-century fur trading post with a museum about Anishinaabe culture.

Back in Duluth, unwind at Canal Park Brewing Company before checking into Enger Lofts Hotel & Marketplace , a stylish boutique hotel in a restored 1800s furniture warehouse. At mealtime, consider At Sara’s Table Chester Creek Cafe , where comfort food gets a modern makeover with dishes like duck pastrami salad or seared smoked provolone. For something more old-school, try the 110-year-old Pickwick Restaurant & Pub , which has been named an America’s Classic by the James Beard Foundation.

Lake Geneva’s Gilded Age mansions, like Stone Manor, have earned it comparisons to Newport.

Photo by lito_lakwatsero/Shutterstock

Chicago to Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

• Distance: 83 miles
• End: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

For a Midwest road-trip destination that’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from a big city, try a drive to Lake Geneva, less than 100 miles north of Chicago. Take I-94 north and stop in Kenosha, only 28 miles out from your destination, for some of the state’s most prized souvenirs: cheese curds and a six-pack from one of the city’s many breweries, including Rustic Road Brewing Company .

Once you arrive in Lake Geneva, you’ll see why it’s been nicknamed “the Newport of the West": Its shores are lined with Gilded Age mansions where wealthy Chicago industrialists and their families used to spend summers. Check into the Grand Geneva , a 358-room resort with everything you’d need for a weekend of winding down, from golf and tennis to a full-service spa. Post up in one of its spacious villas before checking out the on-site options for dinner, such as prime cuts and seafood at Geneva ChopHouse , or venture to Hunt Club Steakhouse , the fine-dining venue at Geneva National Resort & Club , a 1,600-acre property on nearby Lake Como.

Make a detour to Badlands National Park, where the wildlife is almost as impressive as the dramatic rock formations.

Courtesy of Intricate Explorer/Unsplash

Sioux Falls to Spearfish, South Dakota

• Distance: 390 miles
• Start: Sioux Falls, South Dakota
• End: Spearfish, South Dakota

Start this road trip in South Dakota’s largest city with such Sioux Falls staples as the SculptureWalk , the world’s largest annual exhibition of public sculptures, and stock up with macarons (in unique flavors like puppy chow and snickerdoodle) from CH Pâtisserie , which is led by Top Chef: Just Desserts winner Chris Hanmer.

Head out driving west along I-90, and in Mitchell, stop at the World’s Only Corn Palace , a site showcasing the proud harvest of South Dakota farmers. The Moorish revival building has been going strong since the 1890s, and its exterior walls are decorated with murals made of corn. About 200 miles farther on your journey, you’ll come across Badlands National Park , where you can cruise the South Unit’s perimeter for views of its iconic rock formations, while also keeping an eye open for the area’s abundant wildlife, from bison to bighorn sheep.

Back on I-90, fuel up on maple-flavored doughnuts from Wall Drug , an institution since 1931 made famous for its decades of roadside hospitality and much-advertised “free ice water.” Finish your drive in Spearfish, where you can enjoy a Pile O’Dirt Porter or 11th Hour IPA at Crow Peak Brewing before kicking back at Spearfish Canyon Lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Cave Point Country Park is one of the many impossibly scenic stretches of lakefront in Door County.

Photo by Nejdet Duzen/Shutterstock

Green Bay to Door County, Wisconsin

• Distance: 43 miles
• Start: Green Bay, Wisconsin
• End: Door County, Wisconsin

Situated on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County has become a Midwesterner’s must-see for its sprawling shoreline, scenic state parks ( Peninsula State Park , Newport State Park ), and burgeoning food and drink scene. From Green Bay, hop on WI-57 north for lakefront views, then meander on country roads with appealing food and farm stops like Renard’s Cheese , which uses milk from small family dairy farms in Door and Kewaunee counties.

In the town of Ephraim, stay overnight at the Hillside Waterfront Hotel , where five suites and two cottages await, along with the longest porch in the county (lemonade, anyone?). Come morning, take the ferry to Washington Island to explore myriad treasures, including Schoolhouse Beach and Fragrant Isle , a 30,000-plant lavender farm with a French-inspired café.

Among Columbus, Indiana’s most impressive modern landmarks is the North Christian Church, designed by Eero Saarinen.

Photo by Ted Alexander Somerville/Shutterstock

Indianapolis to New Harmony, Indiana

• Distance: 215 miles
• Start: Indianapolis, Indianapolis
• End: New Harmony, Indianapolis

Did you know that Indiana has some of the most distinctive and underrated modern architecture in the United States? Begin your journey in Indianapolis and drive south along I-65 for about 50 minutes, until you reach the town of Columbus.

Beginning in the 1950s, businessman J. Irwin Miller offered to pay the architect fees for public buildings around town. The patronage led to buildings by legends like Eliel (father) and Eero (son) Saarinen, I.M. Pei, Richard Meier, and César Pelli, earning the town the nickname “Athens on the Prairie.” Today, seven of those buildings are designated National Historic Landmarks , and the city offers a two-hour guided shuttle tour of some of the highlights. Among the landmark buildings is Miller’s own 1953 midcentury-modern residence , which features architecture by Eero Saarinen, interiors by Alexander Girard, and landscape design by Dan Kiley.

Continue driving southwest along I-69 toward New Harmony, a small town that was home to two utopian communities between 1814 and 1927; they left behind a number of 19th-century vernacular structures that, lovingly preserved, now form the New Harmony Historic District. But New Harmony isn’t stuck in the past: After marrying a descendant of one of the utopian leaders and town founders, oil heiress Jane Blaffer Owen commissioned a slew of architecture and public art projects, including the Athenaeum by Pritzker Prize–winner Richard Meier and Philip Johnson’s Roofless Church .

Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, designed by I. M. Pei, makes for a fine first stop on this music-themed itinerary.

Photo by BorisVetshev/Shutterstock

Cleveland to Chicago

Distance: 450 miles Start: Cleveland, Ohio Finish: Chicago, Illinois

The shores of the Great Lakes and the Rust Belt cities along them have been the site of some major musical innovation. Begin this music-themed road trip in Cleveland, the home of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , which has a new exhibit honoring 2023 inductees like Missy Elliott, Willie Nelson, Chaka Khan, and Rage Against the Machine. If you’ve ever wondered how the city earned the honor of hosting the I.M. Pei–designed museum, it’s because of DJ Alan Freed, who promoted the new genre and broke down racial barriers in music in the 1950s. Honor his legacy with a visit to his jukebox-shaped grave in Lake View Cemetery .

Drive westward along I-90, cutting north at Toledo toward Detroit , where the Motown Museum is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar renovation and expansion. The museum incorporates Hitsville U.S.A., the record label’s first headquarters, in a white house on West Grand Boulevard that founder Berry Gordy bought in 1959. Enjoy a meal at the Black-owned Waffle Cafe at 18685 Livernois Avenue and see the Motown mural on its exterior wall by artist Fel’le , featuring the likenesses of Smokey Robinson, the Temptations, the Supremes, and others.

Continue westward through Michigan, and blow into the Windy City. Chicago is associated with so many forms of music, including blues, gospel, and modern jazz, but Gen X-ers and elder Millennials will love it for its contribution to the indie rock scene of the past three decades. See who’s playing at the Empty Bottle , Lincoln Hall , Riviera Theatre , or the Metro . Or for something a little more classic, end your night at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge , a bebop and free jazz club that’s been going so long that Al Capone used to be a regular.

While not Chicago’s most luxurious stay, Hotel Versey is steeped in rock history; it used to be nicknamed the Rock and Roll Days Inn and has welcomed Gregg Allman, Nirvana, Radiohead, and more. Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love dyed their hair in the bathtubs here, and Sheryl Crow rollerbladed through the lobby. (Don’t do that, it’s not allowed.)

With additional reporting by Nicholas DeRenzo. This story was originally published in 2021; it was most recently updated with new information on May 21, 2024.

25 Under-the-Radar Midwestern Towns for Girlfriend Getaways

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

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

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

For more information, visit elkhartlake.com .

Chesterton, Indiana

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

For more information, visit indianadunes.com .

Red Wing, Minnesota

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

For more information, visit redwing.org .

West Portsmouth, Ohio

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

For more information, visit ohiorivertourism.org .

Clear Lake, Iowa

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

For more information, visit clearlakeiowa.com .

Lake Forest, Illinois

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

For more information, visit lflbchamber.com .

Grand Marais, Minnesota

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

For more information, visit visitcookcounty.com .

Oscoda, Michigan

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

For more information, visit oscoda.com .

Hocking Hills, Ohio

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

For more information, visit explorehockinghills.com .

Corydon, Indiana

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

For more information, visit thisisindiana.org .

Wichita, Kansas

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

For more information, visit visitwichita.com .

Bloomington, Indiana

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

For more information, visit visitbloomington.com ,

Kenosha, Wisconsin

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

For more information, visit visitkenosha.com .

Carmel, Indiana

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

For more information, visit visithamiltoncounty.com .

Oak Park, Illinois

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

For more information, visit visitoakpark.com .

Door County, Wisconsin

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

For more information, visit doorcounty.com .

Park Rapids, Minnesota

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

For more information, visit parkrapids.com .

Sandusky, Ohio

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

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

Saugatuck, Michigan

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

For more information, visit saugatuck.com .

Hamilton, Ohio

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

For more information, visit gettothebc.com .

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

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5 Fun-Filled Midwest Winter Weekend Getaways (+Itineraries)

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Looking for some great family-friendly Midwest winter weekend getaways to help beat the winter blues?

We’ve got you covered in this collaborative post from five fellow travel bloggers who will dish on their favorite places to visit for a Midwest USA winter weekend getaway .

From the ski slopes of Lake Geneva to the sledding hills of Nebraska, we’ll even hook you up with a weekend itinerary to visit the nation’s largest shopping mall and indoor theme park.

Look no further for 5 of the best Midwest winter weekend getaways ! Lucky for all of us, they all happen to be affordable weekend getaways too!

Table of Contents

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

If you are looking for a Midwest weekend getaway, then look no further than Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. 

Located just 85 miles north of Chicago, Lake Geneva is easy to get to, and there’s plenty for families to do in the winter.  

If you are into outdoor activities, then check out the plethora of winter sports and outdoor winter entertainment. 

For downhill skiing visit the Mountain Top at Grand Geneva.

If you prefer cross-country skiing, there are four locations in and around Lake Geneva as well.

Other outdoor sporting activities include sledding and ice skating. 

Many of the Lake Geneva resorts have small ice skating rinks, and you’ll find sledding in downtown Lake Geneva, at the Mountain Top Resort, or Rudy Lang Sledding Hill in Delavan, WI. 

If you like cold weather but are not into sports then check out Lake Geneva’s annual Winterfest, which takes place at the end of January through the beginning of February. 

Alternatively, visit the elaborate ice castles which are ‘grown’ on the banks of Lake Geneva. The Ice Castles, with their lights, fountains, and icicles are a family favorite.

After a day of winter excitement check out Oakfire Pizza for a Mickey Mouse shaped pizza.    

Spend the day indoors.

Both the Abbey Resort and the Grand Geneva have spas, games, and daily activities for kids. 

If you are looking for a little more indoor excitement, then stay at Timber Ridge Lodge and Waterpark. The Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark located here is awesome!

Guests of the Grand Geneva can purchase day passes for the waterpark here too. 

In the afternoon, check out the Geneva Lake Museum, a great place for little hands as children are not discouraged from touching the artifacts. Alternatively, try out one of the three bowling alleys in and around town. 

Lake Geneva is a charming little town with a bunch of family-friendly activities .  I’ve been there twice during the winter, and I highly recommend it as a place for a winter-weekend family getaway.  

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Bloomington, Minnesota

For one of the best Midwest winter weekend getaways, head to Bloomington, Minnesota!

Although Minnesota is known for its frigidly cold winters, there are some amazing indoor attractions to delight in during the winter months if ‘cold’ just isn’t your thing!

Beat the winter blues and head to Bloomington, MN this winter!

Spend the entire day at none other than the Mall of America (MOA)! After all, MOA isn’t just a mall, its an experience!

Mall of America boasts over 500 stores and is the largest shopping mall in the United States. It is home to a vast array of general retail specialty attractions, and more than 50 restaurants.

Not only that, but the Mall of America attractions are off the chart!

Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Minnesota Aquarium, Crayola Experience, and FlyOver America are the top four attractions in the state!

After spending the day indoors, cap off your evening with a magical skating experience at MOA’s free Skate the Star . This custom-built ice rink is located at the North entrance of MOA.

Take note that though you can bring your own skates, the small rental fee of $5 goes directly to the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Twin Cities!

For a complete guide on having a fun-filled day at Nickeloden Universe theme park , the U.S.’s largest (temperature-controlled!) indoor theme park, check out our featured post!

Having checked in to the adjacent Great Wolf Lodge (located steps from MOA), spend day 2 right at your own resort!

Swim, splash, and slide in the gigantic water park complete with an indoor body board simulator.

In between water rides, take part in the many other attractions such as a ropes course, climbing wall, arcade, bowling alley, and Magi Quest interactive adventure game.

Find out everything you need to know, as well as get out complete review of Great Wolf Lodge Bloomington here!

Look no further and get 25% off of your stay here today!

Located in nearby Excelsior, MN finishing off the evening by visiting Ice Castles. Just a short 20-minute drive from Bloomington, award-winning Ice Castles features breathtaking LED-lit sculptures, frozen thrones, ice-carved tunnels, slides, fountains and much more.

*Click the following image to get your FREE family vacation packing list that is both customizable and printable!

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, Nebraska

Winters in Nebraska can be BRUTAL.  But, you can also find affordable weekend getaways to really get rid of that cabin fever and embrace the outdoors, rather than grumble about it.

One of these midwest winter weekend gems is Mahoney State Park, located just a quick 30-minutes drive from Omaha.

Despite it’s close proximity to both Omaha and Lincoln, you’ll appreciate the nature you can find at Mahoney, even in the winter months.

And don’t think that just because it’s winter, there is nothing to do.  In fact, quite the contrary!

For instance, the Activity Center is the perfect place to go hang out in the winter.

There is a huge indoor rock climbing wall, amazing giant indoor playground, as well as a romantic and fun outdoor ice skating rink. You can easily spend all day just at the Activity Center alone! 

Of course, there is also the favorite toboggan runs where you can BYOS (yup, that’s Bring Your Own Sled!) or get out for a winter hike, go snowshoeing, or even bring along some cross country skis.

There is actually so much to do at Mahoney in the winter , that it’s also the perfect time to rent out one of the many fully furbished cabins (often at a discounted winter price) and cozy on up with great views of the forest and winter wonderland to stay a night or two ! 

Planning tip: Eugene T. Mahoney State Park is a public recreation area located on the Platte River, off Interstate 80, approximately four miles east of Ashland, Nebraska.

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Dubuque, Iowa

Another of the best family-friendly Midwest winter weekend getaways is to Dubuque in Iowa, just 3 hours west of Chicago! 

As one of the best day trips from Chicago in winter, Dubuque is a great destination for both skiing and relaxation!

On day 1, head to Sundown Mountain Resort for a spot of skiing!  There are 21 runs and 2 terrain parks in total, with 3 ski lifts and 2 magic carpets. 

If you’re new to skiing, a day pass for the bunny hill ski lift and the magic carpet is cheaper than an all-access day pass.  They also offer group and one-on-one ski and snowboard lessons as well as the equipment rentals.

If you have a season pass for another one of the Midwest ski resorts, you may be entitled to free entry or a discount at Sundown, so it’s worth looking in to!  

If you’re traveling with kids, a good place to stay in Dubuque is the Grand Harbor Resort and Waterpark which overlooks the Mississippi River. 

Guests of the hotel are then free to use the waterpark during their stay.  You’ll find a lazy river, some tube slides, a giant water jungle gym with a dump bucket, a small children’s pool and a couple of hot tubs…which you may need after a day on the slopes! 

There’s a fun arcade too where you can collect and exchange winning tickets for small prizes.

Just across from the Grand Harbor, is the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium. 

The aquarium is split into two sections. An area about the Mississippi River, where you can see freshwater animals and fish that call the Mississippi River home, and then a saltwater section with species that can be found in the Gulf of Mexico, where the Mississippi River meets the sea! 

The 4D theater here is a fun option too!

If that isn’t quite enough, read here for a list of 35 fun things to do in Dubuque!

Midwest Weekend Getaways: Grand Forks, North Dakota

Our list of Midwest family getaways would not be complete without mention of North Dakota!

Grand Forks, North Dakota is an under-the-radar choice for affordable weekend family fun.

Located 80 miles south of the Canadian border, this friendly college town welcomes visitors from the U.S. and Canada with shopping, food and world-class hockey.

Maximize the hours before check-in at Canad Inns Destination Centre Grand Forks, home to the largest indoor waterpark in the state.

The waterslides, lazy river, kids area, adults-only hot tub, and private cabanas offer something for all ages.

Four restaurants, an arcade, boutique, casino, and kids theme rooms with bunk beds and Xbox or Playstation gaming systems make it easy to stay indoors.

No Grand Forks trip is complete without a trip to see the University of North Dakota hockey team in action.

The most passionate Division I fan base in the nation absolutely rocks the Ralph Engelstad Arena.

The energy here is infectious, even for new hockey fans.

Line up for breakfast at Darcy’s Café. Cinnamon pancakes, hearty portions, and homemade pie make this small, homey diner a local institution.

Try the sledding hill at Turtle River State Park west of the city, or explore six miles of groomed cross-country skiing trails in Lincoln Park and along the Red River in the heart of Grand Forks.

Alternatively, rent skies at the Ski and Bike Shop or the UND Lifetime Fitness Center.

Doodle on the tablecloth until your pizza (gluten-free or regular) arrives at Rhombus Guys. The meaty T-Rex is a best seller and toppings include everything from pulled pork to tater tots.

Stroll the downtown shops and galleries, stopping for a free sample from Widman’s Candy Shop. Then check out local craft beer, pub grub, and live music at Half Brothers Brewing Company, a family-friendly taproom with a low-key vibe.

Lastly, if you can’t decide between an outdoor adventure and doing a little urban exploring, The Greenway is the perfect solution.

Midwest Winter Weekend Getaways: Other fun ideas

Lutsen, Minnesota

If you’re looking for the best skiing in Minnesota, look no further than Lutsen Mountains Ski Resort in Lutsen, MN! Lutsen Mountains offers the highest verticle in the entire Midwest and is home to 4 mountains and 95 runs.

Located along the famous North Shore Scenic Drive , taking a road trip to Lutsen is an experience in itself.

After admiring the gigantic size of (frozen) Lake Superior, the snow-topped pines and other winter wonderland scenes, make it a weekend getaway by indulging in a Ski and Stay package at Caribou Highlands Lodge .

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Despite the frigidly cold Minnesota temperatures, there are so many fun things to do in Minneapolis with kids during the winter months.

A U.S. city known for its cold and snowy winters, Minneapolis is also known for its vibrant and diverse atmosphere, as well as a multitude of things to do.

The many options for year-round fun make Minneapolis an exciting option for a winter getaway with kids!

Our list of the Top 5 fun things to do in Minneapolis with kids  will help inspire you and your family to visit this central Minnesota epicenter of fun!

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois is one of the absolute best Midwest travel destinations to visit with kids!

Despite the chilly winter temperatures, there are still dozens of ways to enjoy Chicago during the winter! In fact, of all of the places in the U.S., Chicago holds a special place on our USA bucket list !

From November through December, there is always something, fun, free and festive going on to celebrate Christmas in Chicago.  

From the millions of tiny bright lights, holiday markets and nostalgic ice skating at Millennium Park, the warmth of Christmas prevails over the chilly Chicago air.  

These 11 festive things to do during winter in Chicago that will leave your whole family feeling merry and bright.

Related article: 3 day Chicago itinerary that families will love!

If you enjoyed our article on Midwest winter weekend getaways, click here to check out our Related posts:

• Our Howlin’ Review of Great Wolf Lodge, Bloomington, MN
• Top 5 Fun Things to do in Minneapolis With Kids This Winter
• Duluth, MN Family Vacation: 2-Day Itinerary
• Where’s The Best Skiing in Minnesota?
• Minnesota Bucket List: 13 Best Places to Go

* Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to help with your travel planning. Find exclusive travel discounts, and book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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10 Comments

This is such a great round-up of winter getaways!

Thanks! Looks like I have a few new places to explore myself!

Thanks for including me! The other getaways sound like fun!

Right? I love rounds-up for all of the great ideas that fellow bloggers share!

What a great round up of winter getaways! Pinned this for when we plan our next trip.

Thanks! Hopefully you can use some of the itineraries!

We spend lots of time at the Mall of America in the winter. I think we need to branch out to some of these other places this year!

Lake Geneva has been on my travel list for some time now! I will admit that I’m partial to Dubuque though and Bloomington as they are so close to home!

We too like to stay somewhat close to home when driving in the winter! Our Midwest weather is always a factor to consider if where you choose to go 🙂

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In our backyard: hitting the road to enchanted north dakota.

In 1989, artist Gary Greff began developing the welded sculptures that became North Dakota’s Enchanted Highway.

Summertime in North Dakota — where the days stretch on forever, the skies put on a show, and the road trips? Oh, they’re nothing short of “Legendary” !

Sure, you could say I’m a bit of a road trip junkie, even in the winter when the snow adds that extra sprinkle of “adventure” (or “slip-and-slide,” depending on your driving skills). There’s something wildly freeing about hitting the road with a destination in mind but no clue how you’re getting there. Some of my best memories involve random pit stops, chats with the nicest strangers, and stumbling upon hidden gems you’d never find in a guidebook.

Take my recent impromptu road trip to the Black Hills of South Dakota for the 84th Sturgis Bike Rally, for instance. I’m a sucker for good people-watching, and let me tell you, the Sturgis Bike Rally is like the Super Bowl of people-watching — though I barely left Deadwood because that’s a whole vibe on its own. But that’s not what this month’s tale is about. Nope, this story is about a little slice of magic I discovered on a 32-mile stretch of highway just south of I-94 at Exit 72.

Now, for years, I’ve been zooming by the “Geese in Flight” display on the interstate, giving it the classic nod of “Oh, neat,” as I sped past. But on this trip, I decided to finally pull over and see what the fuss was about. And let me tell you, it’s more than just a giant, quirky Midwest roadside attraction. It’s a love letter to North Dakota.

The Enchanted Highway began as a wild dream cooked up by artist Gary Greff back in 1989. He figured if he could just get people to hop off the interstate and roll into his hometown of Regent, maybe — just maybe — he could give the local economy a little boost while celebrating the farmers, ranchers, and wide-open prairies that make this place so special. The kicker? Gary didn’t know the first thing about welding, but with the help of over three dozen local farmers, he made it happen.

The Geese in Flight is the largest of the welded features along North Dakota’s Enchanted Highway.

The first piece, “Tin Family” (featuring mom, dad, and son), was pieced together from scrap farm tanks, telephone poles, barbed wire, and augers, standing proud at 45 feet tall by 1991.

Since then, six other installations have popped up along the highway, with a seventh on the way. My favorite? The biggest of them all, “Geese in Flight.” Maybe it’s because I’m a bit of a bird nerd, or maybe it’s because it was the reason I finally pulled off the beaten path. But mostly, it’s because it reminded me of the incredible people who call this state home.

Gary’s dream didn’t just pull people off the interstate – it built a legacy that generations will cherish. If you haven’t yet made the trek to Regent, I highly recommend adding it to your road trip list. It’s a slice of North Dakota magic you don’t want to miss.

Miranda Schuler is a long-time Minot resident and lifelong North Dakotan. In Our Backyard is her unique perspective on her travels, conversations and experiences.

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Farmers' Almanac winter outlook calls for 'copious amounts of snow, rain, sleet and ice'

The farmers' almanac has been predicting long-range weather forecasts for over 200 years. it's calling for a brutally cold winter for parts of the u.s. with rapid-fire storms..

FILE – Beaches Across America winners revealed

Thank you to all who voted for America's Top Beaches! The results are in. We have compiled all the votes, and it's time to reveal the winners. Take a look.

Hey, Siri! Help book me a trip somewhere warm in the final week of January.

We posted America's top beaches above because if the latest Farmers' Almanac prediction is true, you might want to put your toes in the sand after Christmas . The coming winter will be wet and cold in most places, according to the almanac's outlook.

The Farmers' Almanac has been predicting long-range weather forecasts for more than 200 years.

According to their latest outlook released Tuesday, you should prepare yourself for the "Wet, Winter , Whirlwind" ahead. Their annual extended weather prediction calls for a season of rapid-fire storms that will bring both rain and snow . 

HOW TO PREPARE YOUR FAMILY, HOME AND CAR FOR A WINTER STORM

Here's a look at the Farmers’ Almanac winter 2025 extended weather forecast.

(FOX Weather)

The listing shows a very active storm track that will deliver frequent bouts of heavy precipitation and strong and gusty winds over most of the eastern half of the country. However, the outlook notes that the effects of La Niña will make a difference in how the weather will be. 

If you're new to the term La Niña, it describes the periodic cooling of ocean surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. According to NOAA, La Niña is arriving a bit later than expected , with forecasts indicating an emergence during the winter.

If you are a planner, go ahead and block out January 20-27, in particular, for that tropical getaway. That's when the Farmers' Almanac outlook likely showed "copious amounts of snow, rain, sleet and ice" depending on where you live. 

HOW TO WATCH FOX WEATHER

A resident leaves a local corner store in Buffalo, New York, on December 26, 2022, as many major grocery stores remained closed.

(JOED VIERA/AFP / Getty Images)

Readers in Texas and the Northwest : Circle the beginning of February for a possible snowstorm. The Farmers' Alamanac predicts up to 6 inches in the Lone Star State and a foot of snow likely to be dumped in the Bitterroot Mountain range of Idaho .

For all those chionophiles who thrive in bitter winter conditions, the season’s coldest temperatures will be found from the northern Plains to the Great Lakes region, according to the Farmers' Almanac. Between the end of January and the beginning of February could be the coldest days, especially further to the north. 

If you think you might be out of the woods, think again. Their long-range weather outlook shows that frigid Arctic air is bringing a sharp plunge in temperatures almost nationwide.

If that doesn't tempt you to dust off those suitcases in the basement yet, the Farmers' Almanac said that as the frosty air blows across the Great Lakes, heavy snow showers and snow squalls will bring intense bursts of snow to the east.

Have you had enough of the wet winter whirlwind yet? Well, bundle up, New Englanders. 

A family walks through the snow in Bruce Park in Greenwich, Connecticut, on December 17, 2016, where temperatures were 29 degrees.

(TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP / Getty Images)

According to the Farmers' Almanac outlook, the Northeast will be stormy with above-normal amounts of winter precipitation and near-to-above-normal temperatures. They also predict the heaviest snowfall will fall over the interior and mountainous areas, while the coast will see sleet and rain – especially near and along the Interstate 95 corridor.

If the warm tropics are not feasible after that extensive Christmas shopping list for the in-laws, you might consider a road trip to Texas, western Kansas , Oklahoma , portions of Nebraska and New Mexico , or up across the Southeast and Atlantic Coast.

That's where you are likely to experience a warmish winter, with above-average temperatures, according to the Farmers' Almanac. The Southwest will see average winter temperatures, while the Pacific Northwest will be unseasonably chilly.

The Farmers' Almanac noted that the eastern third of the country will experience above-average precipitation, especially in the Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Midwest . The Pacific Northwest will also experience a wet winter. However, the Southwest and south-central states are on track for a winter with average to below-average precipitation.

The big question comes: Who to invite to indulge in those piña coladas on the beach?

Hey, Siri! Call mom.

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Ukraine war latest: Russia and Ukraine swap 115 prisoners as Zelenskyy celebrates independence day

Russia and Ukraine have swapped 115 prisoners of war, including some who were captured during Ukraine's incursion in Kursk in recent weeks. Meanwhile, Ukraine is celebrating independence day, with Sir Keir Starmer sending his "warmest wishes".

Saturday 24 August 2024 16:06, UK

• Ukraine and Russia exchange 115 prisoners of war 
• Sir Keir Starmer sends his "warmest wishes" to Ukraine on its independent day
• Putin has 'made decision' on responding to Kursk invasion
• Russian snipers kill prisoners who took hostages at penal colony
• Your questions answered : Is there a larger response to come from Russia over the Kursk invasion?
• Live reporting by Katie Williams

Washington has announced a fresh $125m (£94.6m) package of military aid for Ukraine.

The US defence department said the additional aid was aimed at meeting Kyiv's "most urgent needs", including air defence capabilities, munitions for rocket systems and artillery and anti-tank weapons.

The US president spoke to Volodymyr Zelenskyy as the aid was announced and reaffirmed America's "unwavering" support for Kyiv, the White House said.

"Ukraine critically needs the supply of weapons from the announced packages, particularly additional air defence systems for the reliable protection of cities, communities, and critical infrastructure," Mr Zelenskyy said in a statement after the call released by his office. 

Volodmyr Zelenskyy says Ukraine's invasion of Russia's Kursk region was a preventative move to halt Russian attacks in northern Ukraine and on the city of Sumy.

He told a news conference that the invasion was difficult but had made positive progress.

Mr Zelenskyy added that as well as capturing Russian soldiers, the cross-border invasion had other goals he could not disclose.

Russia's defence ministry said earlier that 115 Russian soldiers involved in a prisoner swap with Ukraine today had been captured in Kursk (see 13.18 post).

Ukrainian forces have gained fresh momentum from the invasion of Kursk invasion three weeks ago - and the delayed arrival of US weaponry this month.

Officials say they have taken about 100 square kilometres (62 square miles) of territory around Kursk.

A Russian-installed official in occupied Ukraine has boasted about burning Ukrainian books and called for "Ukrainianess" to be "burnt out at the root".

In its latest intelligence update, the UK Ministry of Defence reported the comments made by Dmitry Rogozin, senator for the Russian-controlled parts of Zaporizhzhia, which he posted on Telegram.

Mr Rogozin also said any truce in the war would amount to "certain death" for Russian children.

The MoD said the remarks were "the latest in a long line of Ukrainophobic comments" by senior Russian officials.

It said there were "likely many individuals" within Russia who still have "maximalist objectives" for the conflict - "including the destruction of Ukrainian culture, identity and statehood".

"This is despite the alleged Russian willingness to negotiate," the MoD commented.

At least five people have been killed at five others injured in a Russian attack in eastern Ukraine, a local official has said.

Vadym Filashkin, governor of the Donetsk region, said the emergency workers were at the scene of the attack in the town of Kostiantynivka.

"I urge you all again: take care of yourselves, evacuate," he wrote on Telegram, without providing more details. 

Kostiantynivka is near the location of heavy fighting in Donetsk, where Russian forces have been making advances for months.

The advance has quickened in recent weeks as Moscow's troops push towards the key town of Pokrovsk.

This is the latest situation on the ground in eastern Ukraine:

Ukraine will do all it can to force Vladimir Putin to end the war through diplomacy to save time and people, Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

The Ukrainian president suggested that if this did not happen, Kyiv would be prepared to do it by force.

He also said, when asked how he saw the conflict ending, that Ukraine's territorial integrity should be restored.

Today marks Ukraine's annual independence day - the third since Russia invaded in February 2022. 

No fireworks, parades or concerts are planned - instead Ukrainians are marking the day with commemorations for civilians and soldiers killed in the war.

President Zelenskyy also gave an impassioned speech, saying: "Independence is the silence we experience when we lose our people.

"Independence descends into the shelter during an air raid, only to endure and rise again and again to tell the enemy: You will achieve nothing."

Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged "to stand with Ukraine for as long as it takes with whatever it takes" in a video released for Ukraine's independence day today. 

He finished the message with the national salute "Slava Ukraini" - meaning glory to Ukraine.

Pictures have emerged of the aftermath of a prisoner exchange swap. 

Ukrainian soldiers are seen holding flags and hugging fellow troops after their release from Russian custody this morning. 

Meanwhile, photos released by Russia's defence ministry show some of its servicemen, who were captured during Ukraine's invasion in Kursk, being taken away by bus.

Ukraine and Russia have agreed to exchange 115 prisoners of war. 

Ukrainian officials said the 115 servicemen freed are conscripts, many of whom were taken prisoner in the first months of Russia's invasion. 

Among them are nearly 50 soldiers captured by Russian forces from the Azovstal steelworks in Mariupol.

Russia's defence ministry said the 115 Russian soldiers had been captured in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched their surprise offensive into Russia two weeks ago. 

The ministry said the soldiers were currently in Belarus, but would be taken to Russia for medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said in a post on X that the United Arab Emirates had brokered the exchange, the 55th since February 2022.  

Welcome back to our live coverage of the war in Ukraine. 

We'll be bringing you all the latest updates as Ukrainian forces continue to cause problems for Russia in its Kursk region. 

The two countries are also set to exchange 115 prisoners today, including some who were captured inside Kursk. 

Meanwhile, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to the Russian border as that "between Ukraine and oppression, between life and death… an independent European state and the number one terrorist organisation in the world" in a speech this morning.

Before we bring you more of today's news, here's a reminder of what's happened in the last 24 hours: 

• India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Volodymyr Zelenskyy to sit down for talks with Russia during his trip to Kyiv;
• The Wagner mercenary group has become "increasingly fragmented" in the year since its leader Yevgeny Prigozhin and founder Dmitry Utkin were killed in a plane crash, according to the UK Ministry of Defence;
• Ukrainian forces claimed they have recaptured nearly two square kilometres of territory in the northeastern Kharkiv region.

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7 Last-Minute Escapes for Labor Day Weekend

If you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places in North America that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

By Shannon Sims

It might sound like an impossible request: a last-minute Labor Day getaway with gorgeous weather and minimal crowds that you can squeeze into a long weekend. There are good reasons many destinations across North America won’t fit the bill. Wildfires are burning in some parts of the West, tropical disturbances are brewing in the Caribbean, the East Coast’s coastal retreats are packed, and much of the South is sweaty and oh so steamy. But if you’re still hoping to stretch out the last days of summer, there are places that are not too hot, not too crowded and not necessarily that far away.

Here are seven inspirations in North America for a Labor Day getaway.

North Carolina

Hike to magical waterfalls

Less than an hour’s drive from downtown Asheville, N.C., and covering 500,000-plus acres, Pisgah National Forest is a magical place to be immersed in nature. American goldfinches and Carolina chickadees sing high above waterfalls framed by lush green trees, and babbling streams pour down moss-covered rocks hiding salamanders, newts and crayfish.

During the summer, these wooded areas are chock-full of children at summer camp, and the trails are often busy with hikers. But by Labor Day, most of the kids have returned home, while the weather is often perfect, with average temperatures in the seventies. You have your pick of activities — bird-watching, fly fishing, waterfall dousing and hiking.

Easy trails can be found at the North Carolina Arboretum , but for a shaded, moderate hike to a waterfall in which you can douse, check out Catawba Falls Trail . For another moderate hike (but no swimming), there is Linville Gorge and Falls , nicknamed the Grand Canyon of the Southern Appalachians. Advanced hikers can summit the 6,684-foot Mount Mitchell , the highest peak in the Eastern United States, in Mount Mitchell State Park, which is surrounded by Pisgah Forest.

Later, make your way back to Asheville , where a robust restaurant and brewery scene offers a perfect setting for sharing stories of your day. Local favorites include Cúrate for upscale tapas, Chai Pani for Indian food and Wicked Weed Brewing for hoppy deliciousness.

See San Francisco’s best-loved sights

“The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco,” may be a clichéd phrase, but anyone who has visited this California city during the summer most likely experienced fog, dank air and brisk wind. But September and October are San Francisco’s warmest and brightest months of the year.

A long weekend is just enough for first timers to sample the city’s best-known attractions. Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge . Board a cable car as it clangs up and down the city’s hills. Explore Alcatraz Island on a three-hour tour (book ahead). Take in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, which may be less chaotic with many children back in school. Watch a home game of the San Francisco Giants at Oracle Park , right on the bay. Or check out the Presidio Tunnel Tops , a newly developed stretch of national park land featuring stunning panoramic views.

The city is a particularly special destination for those interested in L.G.B.T.Q. history. The GLBT Historical Society Museum , nicknamed the Queer Smithsonian, is a good place to start, as is a stroll through the Castro neighborhood or a stop at the Castro’s first gay bar, opened in 1963 as the Missouri Mule (now called Beaux).

Swim, fish, boat, then sip, at the Finger Lakes

One of the largest Finger Lakes in upstate New York, Keuka Lake stretches about 20 miles and draws visitors with clear-water swimming, paddling, kayaking and fishing. Labor Day marks the end of its high summer season.

Visitors can use picnic tables, playgrounds and swimming areas off sandy beaches at Keuka Lake State Park near Branchport or Red Jacket Park in the village of Penn Yan, on the lake’s northern end.

On its southern shores, the charming village of Hammondsport has cafes, shops and restaurants, many of which are clustered around the Pulteney Square Historic District .

Fishing is a big draw, with brown trout, yellow perch and more inhabiting the lake’s deep waters. You can buy your own fishing equipment at Jake’s Boat Livery , or get the professionals to do it by chartering a fishing expedition through Summit to Stream Adventures .

Don’t forget the wine: 20 vineyards are scattered around the lakeshore, with six part of the Keuka Lake Wine Trail . You can visit most wineries on your own or with a tour.

Keuka Lake is a one- to two-hour drive from airports in Rochester, Ithaca, Syracuse or Buffalo. The lake is about a five-hour drive from New York City.

Soak your stress away in alpine splendor

During Labor Day weekend, the I-70 corridor that connects Denver to the ski towns to the west, like Winter Park, Keystone and Breckenridge, can be bumper to bumper, especially getting back on Monday.

But nestled in the San Juan Mountains, about an hour’s drive from Telluride, is Ouray, an often overlooked gem for outdoor fun. Sure, there’s great hiking and canyoning, but there aren’t many towns where you can stroll down Main Street and stop into a boutique for shopping, a cafe for coffee and a hot springs for soaking. Ouray Hot Springs Pool is sulfur-free — in other words, no rotten-egg stink — and offers not just one pool but many: The family-friendly pools feature water slides, a volleyball net and a rolling log, while the adults-only soaking section is kept between 102 and 106 degrees.

Montrose Regional Airport , about an hour’s drive from Ouray, has direct flights to Chicago, Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver.

Sample delicious urban delights

You won’t scratch the surface of what Mexico City offers in a long weekend, so consider tossing away those checklists and instead soak up the atmosphere in one or two neighborhoods.

Start by signing up for the city’s bike share app, Ecobici , for an easy way to get around town. The Roma neighborhood, a favorite among travelers, has shaded, walkable streets; inviting plazas; and some of the city’s best restaurants. For a neighborhood with a tad fewer tourists, try La Condesa , a short bike ride from Roma and between the two lovely green spaces called Bosque de Chapultepec and Parque México . Shopaholics should visit Polanco , where the commercial thoroughfare Presidente Masaryk Avenue offers luxury stores.

Whichever neighborhood you pick to explore, you’ll be delighted by the quality and flavors of food offered at the city’s restaurants, food carts and 11,000-plus taco shops. Even if a corner spot looks shabby, it might be producing food that could rank among the best bites you’ve ever had. Look no further than Taquería El Califa de León, an unassuming taco stand that won a Michelin star this year , as an example of the culinary magic that lies around any given corner.

Nova Scotia

Time-travel in a 1700s fishing village

About 62 miles southwest of downtown Halifax along Nova Scotia’s South Shore, breezy Lunenburg is a fishing village with charm — and fresh seafood — to spare.

Old Town Lunenburg is considered by UNESCO as the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America. Its colorful homes face tall ships moored in the harbor, transporting visitors back to the 1700s. Stroll around the area on your own, popping into local shops and restaurants, or sign up for a walking tour .

At the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic , part of the Nova Scotia Museum , you can experience what life was like in a fishing village throughout the centuries, from early Mi’kmaq communities to the arrival of Black Loyalists in 1783 to today. The museum is housed in an old fish processing plant, and the Old Fish Factory Restaurant now serves Nova Scotia lobster rolls on a wharf-side patio.

Fresh lobster is available year-round in Nova Scotia, so check out some stops on the Nova Scotia Lobster Trail . But don’t forget much of the Atlantic’s bounty: mussels, scallops, halibut, Arctic char, cod — even a seaweed called dulse — can be found on local menus.

Roam and ride in the sand dunes

The Great Lakes were made for summer, but the challenge is finding a spot that isn’t too crowded. Silver Lake Sand Dunes is a destination even many Michiganders don’t know about.

Located an hour-and-a-half drive from Grand Rapids on Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, the dunes comprise 2,000 acres and are part of Silver Lake State Park. Even though they are situated in the heart of the United States, the dunes will make you feel as if you’re roaming the sands of Arabia.

Activities at the park include swimming, canoeing and horseback riding along the beach, or hiking through the surrounding evergreen forests.

But a classic way to explore the dunes is through Mac Wood’s Dune Rides , a local company that for nearly a century has been taking visitors in open-top trucks for thrilling and informative rides through the sand.

While in the area, be sure to visit the Little Sable Point Lighthouse , an 1874 tower that was made more accessible to the public in 2010. Climb the tower and take in the lake, forests and dunes below.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this story included a photo caption that misstated the location of the Palacio de Bellas Artes in Mexico City. It is in Centro district, not Polanco. It also misstated the location of the Silver Lake Sand Dunes. The dunes are on Lake Michigan’s eastern coastline, not western.

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Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Provincetown, Mass.:  Located at the tip of Cape Cod, P-town (as locals call it) has overlapping — and sometimes competing — identities : one of America’s oldest art colonies, nature preserve, thriving L.G.B.T.Q. resort and historic Portuguese fishing village.

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

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10 reasons you need to visit Moscow this winter

Winter in Moscow  is a Russian fairy-tale come true: Beautiful parks, squares and churches covered in sugar powder snow and lights shimmering on your way. Don’t overestimate the temperature’s influence on your travel experience – if you remember to pack a warm coat, cozy underwear and waterproof shoes, you are ready to go.

Here come our top 10 spots to visit in this super romantic season in Moscow – winter atmosphere guaranteed.

1. Sparrow Hills

The imposing Moscow State University on Sparrow Hills.

One of the best city views opens from Sparrow Hills, protruding over Moscow and featuring the prominent main building of Moscow State University.

The University is one of Stalin’s Seven Sisters, a line of first Soviet skyscrapers to peak the Moscow skyline. Sparrow Hills makes an excellent viewpoint of a snowy Moscow, but also serves as a beloved park and favourite hangout of the student population. During winter Sparrow Hills’ ski-trails are open all day long.

Where: Sparrow Hills Nearest station: Vorobievy Gory

2. Red Square

Ice skating on the Red Square.

No matter how cold it is, a visit to Moscow is not complete without a visit to the Red Square . The most beautiful and yet forbidding square in Moscow is a huge pedestrian space paved in stone right next to the Kremlin. The term ‘red’ doesn’t refer to the colour, as you perhaps would first guess – it refers to its beauty. ‘Red’ used to mean ‘beautiful’.

Over its long and troublesome history this place has been a market square and a place for coronations and decapitations. It has hosted a wide range of events – from military parades to rock concerts. A rink goes up every winter on the square where people can show off their skating skills.

Where: Red Square Nearest station: Okhotny Ryad

3. Saint Basil’s Cathedral

Is it a wedding cake? No, it’s Saint Basil’s Cathedral, a must-see for Moscow sightseeing.

Saint Basil’s Cathedral on the Red Square looks like an enormous wedding cake. No wonder Le Corbusier called it ‘delirium of a drunken confectioner’. It was built in the middle of the 16th century, and legend tells that Ivan the Terrible ordered its two architects blinded – to make sure they could never duplicate the masterpiece.

This fairy-tale Cathedral consists of nine side churches arranged around the tenth church of Intercession. Take refuge from the chilly weather outside with a visit inside the cathedral and wander around its surprisingly narrow galleries and see its murals, icons and frescoes. In the Soviet era the Cathedral miraculously avoided being demolished, and therefore it is much appreciated by its many visitors today.

Where: Red Square Tel: +7 495 698 33 04 Nearest station: Okhotny Ryad

4. Krasny Oktyabr

Krasny Oktyabr – as hot as it gets in chilly Moscow.

Krasny Oktyabr means ‘Red October’ and it used to be a big Soviet chocolate factory famous for its chocolate bar ‘Alyonka’. Now it is the hottest hub in Moscow and a place that will keep you warm even on the coldest days with its thousands of hip and trendy youngsters working, eating and having a good time. In the near future it is intended that the twenty-three red brick buildings of the factory will be transformed into extremely expensive housing with views of the Kremlin.

Meanwhile, all the best design firms, galleries, bars, boxing clubs, yoga studios and nightclubs have plenty on offer for adventurers and creative souls.

Where: Bersenevskaya naberezhnaya, 6 Nearest station: Kropotkinskaya

5. Novodevichy Convent

Novodevichy Convent looks like something from Russian fairy-tale.

This convent is so beautiful it leaves you speechless. Founded in 1524 it has remained intact and was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. For many centuries the red brick and white stone Convent with lacelike towers and golden domes was home – or more specifically, prison – to many ladies from the Russian royal families. The moment they fell from favour, became tedious or disobedient, they were sent to live there. Nevertheless the convent doesn’t look scary, but very cheerful, especially in winter. When surrounded by snow, it resembles a fairy-tale castle of a beautiful princess.

Bring a sled or some cardboard to sled down the hills surrounding the Convent.

Where: Novodevichy proezd, 1 Tel: +7 499 246 85 26 Nearest station: Sportivnaya

6. Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Gold ‘n’ snow. The Cathedral of Christ the Saviour.

This glossy white Cathedral of Christ the Saviour with its giant golden dome does have resemblances with an ice castle –  especially during winter when it’s wrapped up in snow. Things have never been easy around the Cathedral. It took forty-four years to build it with the purpose of thanking Divine Providence for saving Russia from Napoleon. In 1931 it was demolished to free space for the Palace of the Soviets – that was never built. The Soviet leader, Nikita Khrushchev, decided to open the world’s largest open-air swimming pool instead, using the flooded foundation cavity.

But consistency isn’t a strong Russian trait. In 1990 it was decided to rebuild the Cathedral using modern technology. This time it only took three years, and today you can observe the result.

Where: Volkhonka, 15 Tel: +7 495 637 12 76 Nearest station: Kropotkinskaya

7. Gorky Park

Nightskating on the biggest ice rink in Europe.

Some years ago this large Soviet park had become a mess of kiosks with bad kufta, roller coasters with dubious safety standards and with thousands of people trying to have fun. Thanks to recent changes in the Moscow government the park has changed for the better. The kiosks and roller coasters have been taken down, the Soviet architecture has been cleaned and nice cafés and restaurants have been opened. The park also hosts dance lessons, Ping-Pong, chess, running clubs and the largest European winter ice-rink during the winter.

Where: Krymsky Val, 9 Tel: +7 495 995 00 20 Nearest station:  Park Kultury

8. Garage Museum

Get enlightened at Garage Museum, Moscow.

If the ice-skating in Gorky Park can’t keep you warm then head inside the Garage Museum . This museum is located inside the park in the former restaurant Seasons, which was posh and famous in the 1960s. Rem Koolhaas made an ambitious architectural project: to maintain the look of a 1960s building, but still become the most technologically advanced museum in the city.

The wall panels move freely and a large separate space is made especially for the installations and performances. Add to this five new exhibition halls, a media space and an entire educational centre, and you have yourself a cultural adventure not to miss.

Where: Krymskiy val, 9, bld. 32 Tel: +7 495 645 05 20 Nearest station: Park Kultury

9. Hermitage Garden

An intimate rink in the intimate Hermitage Garden.

If you only manage to see one thing in central Moscow, this should definitely be it. Though the park is small, it is home to quite a few great sights and it is cosy – especially during the snowy season. You will find a few cafés, three theatres, a stage for concerts and a great playground for children. The best food, music and children’s festivals are held here regularly – and during the winter locals have a lot of fun using the skating rink. But somehow, no matter how many children and music lovers flock to this place, it still never feels crowded, and the atmosphere is intimate.

Where: Karetny Ryad, 3 Tel: +7 495 699 04 32 Nearest station: Pushkinskaya

10. Sanduny Banya

Heat up at Sanduny Banya.

There’s no better way to finish a day of sightseeing in a wintery Moscow than to go to a banya. A Russian banya is a hot steam that serves several purposes. People go to the banya to cure colds, remove toxins from the body, strengthen the immune system and gossip or talk business. The setting is grandiose and palatial with mosaics, marble columns and the Poseidon statue.

Locals come to Sanduny , the largest and most popular banya in Moscow, for a relaxing detox. They also go to do some nude celebrity spotting. Many Russian actors, singers and politicians come to this 200-year old institution regularly. Don’t leave without a bath besom session and a shot of vodka at the adjacent restaurant. This is a mandatory part of the banya program, if you want to go local.

Where: Neglinnaya, 14, bld. 3-7 Tel: +7 495 625 46 31 Nearest station: Kuznetsky Most

Looking for more Moscow inspiration? Visit the momondo blog and download our FREE city guide, momondo places , featuring the very best places to see, eat and experience in Moscow, as selected by locals.

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Wet snow, rain expected to start in November for Midwest, including Kentucky. What to know

Although last winter was the warmest on record , people in the Midwest Region, which includes Kentucky, can expect a cold and wet 2024-2025 season, according to the Farmers' Almanac.

The upcoming winter should be wet and milder for most of the U.S., according to the almanac. The 208th edition of the Farmers' Almanac, out now, foresees a "Wet Winter Whirlwind," for the upcoming 2024-2025 winter season.

"It definitely looks more wet than white in many areas," Farmers' Almanac Editor Sandi Duncan told USA TODAY. "Obviously, depending on where you live, there might be more white than wet, but we're focusing in on the wet winter ahead."

The climate pattern known as  La Niña  — likely to emerge in the September-November period, the Climate Prediction Center said in a  recent forecast  — could result in a warmer winter than normal in much of the country, she said.

Most of the nation can expect a wet Thanksgiving holiday, too, "except for way out in the Southwest," she said. And Christmas "looks wet rather than white for most areas."

The end of January gets a red flag for much of the nation due to the potential of "a very active storm track" expected to bring strong and gusty winds, along with heavy precipitation — "copious amounts of snow, rain, sleet, and ice (depending on where you live) could fall," the Almanac says.

➤  Get weather alerts via text :  Sign up to get updates about current storms and weather events by location .

The winter chill is expected to "hang on" longer than usual in the North, Northeast and middle of the U.S. "So it looks like it's going to feel like a longer winter, even if it's a little warmer in certain areas that usually get snowier conditions," she said.

Here's what to know:

What does the Farmers' Almanac predict for this year in Kentucky?

The Great Lakes, Ohio Valley and Midwest region can expect periods of wet snow and rain to begin in early November, with "frigidly cold" temperatures through Nov. 11. Rain and wet snow continues to Thanksgiving, with a drier forecast toward the end of the year.

"January looks like when the Big Freeze may be on for that area," Duncan said. With "very, very cold" conditions expected, "If you can plan your trip to the Caribbean, I would go then."

In mid-March, a "rapidly moving storm" is expected to bring two to five inches of wet snow to Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and the lower peninsula of Michigan and a wintry mix to Kentucky. The first of April is also predicted to bring cold rain, sleet and wet snow to Kentucky, southern Indiana and southern Ohio.

Did the Farmers' Almanac get its winter weather prediction right last year?

Not if you consider  the Almanac's overall forecast  of a cold 2023-2024 winter, because it was the  warmest on record . However, the Almanac notes it hit on some of its predictions, including  heavy show and blizzard conditions  from Colorado to the Plains that threatened Christmas holiday travel.

The Almanac's forecast paralleled a weather pattern described by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration as "a swatch of cooler-than-average temperatures across the central part of the country in January."

The Farmers' Almanac, which originated in 1818, says its  longtime fans claim the publication's weather predictions are accurate approximately 80%-85% of the time . It uses "a top-secret mathematical and astronomical  formula , taking sunspot activity, tidal action, the position of the planet, and many other factors into consideration," the Almanac states.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky forecast: What the Farmer's Almanac predicts for this winter

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Savings interest rates today, August 24, 2024 (best account provides 5.50% APY)

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An audio teaser for Aston's soon-to-come V12 roars off the website

Aston Martin teased the sound of its new V12-powered GT.

This week in Bidenomics: It’s about time

Interest rate cuts are finally on the way. It might give voters a bit more confidence in Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris.

Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani hits walk-off grand slam to join MLB's 40-40 club in record time

Ohtani's dramatic blast made him the 6th player in MLB history to post 40 homers and 40 stolen bases in a season.