Many of the historic homes in Galena are only open seasonally, so it's best to visit between May and October. The most recent category 4 or 5 March or April snowstorm occurred just last year. One of the best places to admire Minnesotas fall foliage is in Minnehaha Regional Park. Related: 8 Spectacular Spring Flower Festivals to Experience Around the Midwest. Stop by Bay Beach Amusement Park to enjoy old-school rides on a budget, or head to the National Railroad Museum to take a ride on a vintage train. Starved Rock State Park beckons visitors with 18 eye-catching canyons that were carved over the millennia by glacial meltwater. This is only about 57% of the average. South Bend, Indiana's main claim to fame is that it houses the University of Notre Dame. Located in the northern section of Michigan's Lower Peninsula, Traverse City's offerings are mostly dictated by its proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Author Lisa Eldred Steinkopf shares how to make blooms last longerand repeat. All Rights Reserved. Louis, MO 63102(314) 655-1600. No matter what youre interested in, there is bound to be a perfect place to visit for your next Midwest vacation. It's free December to March. Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage in Minnesota when you plan your family vacation in the Midwest. Grand Rapids provides an array of attractions suitable for Michigan's second-largest city. Once youre finished with your retail therapy here, check out the malls highly entertaining attractions. As the owner and chiropractor at Atlas, I help people heal naturally from the inside-out by removing nerve . For something a bit more active, you can also go hunting, hiking and biking. Experience the worlds longest, fastest and tallest hybrid roller coaster: the Steel Vengeance. For the adventurous, youre going to have a blast hiking the Black Elk Peak Trail. Kansas City is a thriving city with a unique location, the city straddles the state line so is actually in both Kansas and Missouri. With an array of therapeutic and beauty treatments, this bathhouse will give you and your partner a romantic and relaxing experience in Chi-town. Additional sights along the thoroughfare include the Titanic Museum Attraction, a large replica of the famous ship, and the Bigfoot Fun Park, a sasquatch-themed amusement park. Festivities aside, April and May are delightful times to visit. Then, take a ranger-led tour to learn more about the history of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Best time of year to visit Midwest. Required fields are marked *. Kansas City will keep you occupied and busy for days, with its numerous big city entertainment and attractions. Atlas Chiropractic. Get lost in your thoughts at the San Fernando De Bexar Cathedral. Nestled in North Dakota, this 32-mile stretch is adorned with bizarrely wonderful sculptures made from scrap metal. The Eternal City was founded on 21 April 753 BCE, and every year it celebrates with events, light shows and truck-loads of fireworks. Celebrated annually since 1854, this internationally renowned state fair in Des Moines draws more than a million visitors. Visit Monument Rocks to see unique chalk rock formations. There are so many amazing places to visit in the Midwest. There is a 6-mile loop trail that can be a bit tricky, but the reward is definitely worth the effort. Learn how to easily plan your dream trip to the Midwest! But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. Youll be able to reach them using the 6 miles of trails that wind through the woods and rock formations in the park. Rising from Lake Superiors waters, this remote oasis is perfect for anyone who wants to escape their monotonous daily grind. Check out popular spots like Ash Cave and Rock House in Hocking Hills State Park, but also be sure to enjoy the restaurant scene in Athens, home to Ohio University. You'll delight in the quiet life and artistry of Amish shops, restaurants and homes. San Antonio, Texas, is home to a rich, unique culture. You can spend several days exploring Chicago and find plenty to do and see. And the fifth is a James Beard finalist chef. And one of the best places to visit in Michigan! As a bonus, its dotted with picture-perfect and elaborate fountains. For many Midwesterners, holiday feasting kicks off with a relish tray. Situated in Lake Huron, this 4.35-square-mile resort area and island is a designated National Historic Landmark. You'll need to bundle up and be quiet, but the experience leads to great photo ops. U.S. News considers factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Petrolheads with a few days to spare will want to visit Indianapolis to check out the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, home of the Indianapolis 500 and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum. Its a really unique Midwest vacation spot that youll talk about for years. Oahu, Hawaii for Humpback Whales April is absolutely ideal for visiting Oahu, known as "the gathering place." First of all, the weather is perfectwith average highs of 79 degrees Farehneit and lows of 66. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Element Omaha Midtown Crossing, 10400 Ford RdDearborn, MI 48126(313) 846-6910. You can also satisfy your taste buds with juicy BBQ goodies at joints, like Fiorellas Jack State Barbecue and Arthur Bryants. Why Wisconsin Supper Clubs Just Keep Getting Better With Age. Its easily one of the most popular of South Dakotas National Parks. Kansas Bucket List. Starting about mid-May, when more than 50,000 daffodils unfurl along State-13 leading into town, springtime visits reveal sights, sounds and scents that Midwesterners welcome after a long winter. In August, it hosts a Corn Festival, and every year the designs outside of the palace are changed. The land was eventually purchased by the state of Missouri and became a State Park. I absolutely love it! Meet Five Midwest Cake Creators (and Try Their Recipes). Likewise, head to the Pinnacles Overlook, and savor arguably the most magical sunset in the Midwest. (Note: Some of the below destinations may be affected by the coronavirus outbreak. Labeled as the only corn palace in the world, this multi-purpose venue draws around 500,000 visitors annually. From crystal clear freshwater beaches to electrifying cities, these states feature an endless array of activities to pique your interest. The Tonti Canyon Creek waterfalls drop 60 feet into a pool of water. They are some of the most popular things to do when visiting Lafayette. Unplug from the modern everyday on a nostalgic, kitschy, friendlier-than-a-front-porch run down the the Mother Road. Visit the palace during its peak season, which is from Memorial Day to Labor Day. 1. Great River Road towns of Lake City and Wabasha, discover the natural beauty that blossoms everywhere in tiny Bayfield, This Unique Way to Explore Bayfield Focuses on Wellness and Outdoor Adventure. Badlands National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. The Maquoketa Caves State Park is full of amazing caves in Iowa. Where to Eat: Fiddlesticks Food & Spirits Company, Becky Thatcher's Diner, Mark Twain Brewery, and Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium. This area of the United States is very underrated, and often passed over when it comes to vacation destinations or corporate events. About nearest 24 hour convenience storeFind the best Grocery Store near you on Yelp - see all Grocery Store open now.Explore other popular stores near you from over 7 million businesses with over . ThisAnker high-speed phone charging batteryisthe exact oneI carry with me on all of my trips. Unfortunately, 20 years later, a fire destroyed the castle and left it in ruins. With all of these amazing places to visit in the Midwest, Im sure youll find yourself planning your very own Midwestern vacation. If you are a foodie, there are many mouth-watering restaurants in Lincoln NE for you to choose from after a busy day exploring the city. And there are actually two waterfalls right next to each other! With visions of dinner parties and game nights dancing in their heads, a Chicago couple renovated their historic (and first) home, one DIY project at a time. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. The Sunken Gardens can't be missed, especially if you plan on visiting during the warmer months when the kaleidoscopic flowers are in full bloom. 5 Places of Interest in the Midwest. Stroll along Ward Park, and spot some of the citys most fabulous waterworks and fountains. Gateway Arch National Park is home to the famous metal arch that can be found in St. Louis. The island is unique in that there are no cars or chain hotels instead, horse-drawn carriages, bed-and-breakfast accommodations and family-owned hotels are the norm so travelers can truly embrace the Lake Michigan destination's small-town charm. Wichita, Kansas' assortment of specialty museums and historical sites makes it a terrific place to spend a weekend away. Springfield Midwest Spring Break Destination: Ohio 9. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Additionally, Springfield is where you'll find political landmarks like the Illinois State Capitol and the Illinois Governor's Mansion. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. . For 11 consecutive August days, this state fair turns Des Moines into a convivial wonderland with its trade shows and concerts. 4. If you plan to explore the entire north-central US, June through September is the best time to visit the Midwest.Hot and humid summers offer excellent road conditions to drive across the region with bonus open-air festivals and events such as Twins Days in Ohio and state fairs in Indiana, Iowa, Ohio, or North Dakota. You may be surprised to learn that North Dakota has a Scandinavian Heritage Park. For additional waterfront parks to explore, venture east to Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. Vendors sell peppery bologna sandwiches and buttery pancakes called poffertjes. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill Des Moines, 1100 E 9th StCleveland, OH 44114(216) 781-7625. Beer and history enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of the 19th-century Pabst Mansion or the Lakefront Brewery, while foodies will want to swing by the Milwaukee Public Market to purchase or learn how to cook a memorable meal. The arch is now the tallest arch in the world, reaching 623 feet at its top point. Absolutely delicious cakes. Im Linda. A 250-year-old mill (imported from Holland) highlights Windmill Island Gardens, where a Dutch village includes a museum, carousel and shops selling delftware and wooden shoes. One of the most popular times to visit Chicago is during the magical Christmas season. Your email address will not be published. Throughout the year the museum also hosts concerts and events that you can attend. Completed in 1941, this iconic landmark features 60-foot head carvings of Presidents Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln and Roosevelt. Bird-watching, boating on Lake Pepin, quaint shopping and dining in cozy waterfront cafes round out a stay in the Great River Road towns of Lake City and Wabasha. Reserve a spot before sunrise or sunset in at Rowe Sanctuary or Crane Trust. Plus, Madison provides easy access to multiple hiking trails and features a fun downtown area where you can grab dinner, listen to live music and people watch. All Rights Reserved. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bowman Lodge & Convention Center, 484 Wooster RdMillersburg, OH 44654(330) 674-0022. And, yes, it's even fun to visit Duluth in winter. Another can't-miss attraction is Dubuque's historic Fenelon Place Elevator Company funicular, which offers incredible views of the city and its neighboring states. Ford Drive-In is the largest drive-in theater in America with 9 screens and spacious parking for over 2,000 cars. Depending on whom you ask, the United States' Midwest includes Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, . Identity thieves are everywhere. (The alternate version, with ham and cream, is excellent too. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection, 2678 E 875th RdOglesby, IL 61348(815) 667-4726. Ford Drive-In is truly one of the most captivating and nostalgic things to do in the Midwest tonight. Located at 350 East 3rd Street in Dubuque, entry is affordable. And there's so much to do. Alternatively, animal lovers may drive the 18-mile long Wildlife Loop Road. Topeka, the state capital of Kansas, is best known for its role in the civil rights movement. Make sure to visit the Old Cowtown Museum, which captures the rowdy spirit of Wichita's early days, and the Wichita Art Museum. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. Apr 2018 - Present4 years 11 months. Also, spend time appreciating the massive memorabilia collection and historical aspects behind every exhibit. Walker is a paradise for modern and contemporary art connoisseurs. Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru Starved Rock State Park, 607 Main StRegent, ND 58650(701) 563-6400. What's not to like? The island is full of picturesque Victorian buildings, charming island boutiques and restaurants, and beach views. No visit to Cleveland would be complete without visiting the "A Christmas Story" House and Museum, where the popular holiday movie was filmed. First and foremost, be sure to tour Detroit's numerous historical and architectural landmarks, which include the art deco Guardian Building and the Fox Theatre. It makes for a fun family vacation in the Midwest, and its one you wont forget. #7 in Best Places to Visit in April 2023 Travelers flock to Joshua Tree National Park in April for two reasons: tolerable temperatures and the spring wildflowers. Situated in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, this extraordinary park is famous for its massive sand dunes and beaches. If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, theseRFIDsleeves arethe perfect solution. If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider anexternal charging battery. From sandy beaches and boat rental to horseback riding, it even offers some of the top things to do in the Midwest with kids. While on the island, you will find no cars. Get your aquatic adventure fix by visiting Mount Olympus Water Park and Noahs Ark Water Park. Pink and white apple blossom petals bloom as 250,000 paradegoers watch a dazzling parade at spring's annual Blossomtime Festival. Ann Arbor, Michigan, is best known as the home of the University of Michigan, but the city offers much more than your typical boisterous college town. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is easily one of the best places to go camping in Michigan. We dare not mess with an iconat least, not too much. Welcome to Midwest Explored. Adults pay $15 for entry, while kids get a discounted rate of $10. While in Wichita, you can learn about Native American culture, among other things. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Unique Midwest Light Displays to See This Winter. Not only does it have freshwater beaches, but it also has hidden escapes and towering bluffs. As many as 14,000 people wait hours to hear, see and feel 1,300 bison thundering down the valley while they're herded by dozens of cowboys on horseback. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stay USA Hotel and Suites. You may also partake in any of the museums screenings, special performances, lectures, workshops and classes. Lake Geneva 5. The city also has a botanical garden, museums, and more. Within Ha Ha Tonka State Park youll find some beautiful castle ruins. Got Mackinac and Wichita on my list. 15 Cool Islands in the Midwest to Discover Isle Royale, Michigan Isle Royale National Park is one of the best islands in Michigan and is found in Lake Superior. And, with more than 3 million visitors per year, its, no doubt, one of the popular, must-see attractions in the Midwest, U.S.A.. Admire the craftsmanship of this majestic and colossal memorial in South Dakota. The Weisman Art Museum has an iconic brick and steel facade that sets it apart from any of the other art museums. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Meadowbrook Resort, Related: Places to Eat in Wisconsin Dells, 13400 US Highway 16ACuster, SD 57730(605) 255-4515. I never leave home on a trip without myBobble filtration bottle. Downtown's White River State Park is home to the 64-acre Indianapolis Zoo; the Indiana State Museum, which features an IMAX Theater; and the NCAA Hall of Champions. Minnesota 1. One of those is the Mitchell Corn Palace. As a result, these immigrants left a lasting impact on the culture of North Dakota. And, if youre planning to leave the downtown area this weekend, head to the Mackinac Island State Park, which has a 70-mile network of trails winding through limestone outcroppings and woods. Halfway between Cleveland and Columbus, Ohio's sprawling Amish Country offers travelers divergent paths to sample the rural lifestyle. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. At Prophetstown State Park youll be able to explore a unique living history museum. If you prefer a milder ride, check out the Top Thrill Dragster and Woodstock Express. Head to the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, and experience a variety of activities, including lantern-lit tours, boat rentals and beaches. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viceroy Chicago, 604 N Main StMitchell, SD 57301(605) 995-8430. A weekend here could include visiting the Canal Exploration Center, biking along the Towpath Trail, hiking in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, floating on a mule-drawn boat and riding the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad. Since 1879, this 364-acre amusement park in Sandusky has been thrilling visitors with its mind-blowing rides. Family Destinations Guide is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. Duluth, Minnesota. Alternatively, you may bike along the beautiful Bear Heritage Trail. It is a great tourist attraction in Iowa. St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. If youre searching for free things to do in the Midwest, look no further than Enchanted Highway. From exhilarating roller coasters to costumed characters, these parks offer fun for everyone. By impounding the Osage River, the state of Missouri created the Lake of the Ozarks, an expansive reservoir with more than 1,100 miles of shoreline. Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Hi. The common thread? Looking for romantic things to do in the Midwest for couples? Nebraska's capital is not only home to the University of Nebraska's flagship campus, but it also offers an assortment of notable sights that warrant a weekend visit. Discover these empowering women's history destinations selected by the U.S. News travel editors. Head to central Ohio to visit the state capital, where you'll find The Ohio State University and an assortment of attractions ideal for a weekend getaway. No complaints! Bike along the shoreline, visit one of the area orchards, tour gardens and take a walking tour to explore this lakeside town. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore, Gateway Arch National ParkSt. There are campsites for traditional camping and RVs, so theres space for every type of camper. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Badlands National Park is a cant-miss stuff to do in Americas Heartland. Considered one of the nation's top birding spots, Horicon Marsh sits just an hour northeast of Madison. From wineries, lavender fields, covered bridges, and more, there are tons of romantic things to do and see there. Badlands National Park is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest. Then, do yourself a favor, and put this skydeck at the top of your list of things to see in the U.S. Midwest. See more picks for top Midwest public gardens and arboretums. Sitting on the western edge of Missouri, the states largest city is well-known for its fountains, jazz heritage, and barbecue. Echoing its roots as a utopian community, New Harmony, Indiana, continues to thrive as an ideal destination for reflection and inspiration as spring unfolds. Watch the inductee videos and short films within the museum. Youll also love the sunset views of the Deer Crossing on this unique highway in the Midwest. Another runs a microbakery from her home. Elk, prairie dogs, bison, and other animals roam near Custer State Parks Wildlife Loop Road. Just head to Ontonagon, between September and March, and youll have a rare chance to see this unearthly natural light show. Chef Jorge Guzmn's Step-by-Step Guide to Making Tamales. Then, take a tour of some of St. Louis' noteworthy historical sights, including the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis and Busch Stadium, home of the St. Louis Cardinals.