14 Best Places to Visit in the Midwest
Planning a weekend getaway or a road trip and not sure where to start? No problem! The Midwest may be vast, but there are some absolutely must-visit places that really stood out. Here are my favorite Midwest escapes from our four week road trip that I hope you’ll enjoy too.
- My Favorite Places to Visit in Upper Midwest / Lake Superior & Northwoods
- - #1. Ely, MN - Grand Ely Lodge - #2. Cornucopia, WI - Siskiwit Bay Lodge - #4. Richville, MN - Northern Lights Resort - #4. Two Rivers, Wisconsin - #5. The Wisconsin Dells - #6. Brainerd, Minnesota- #7. Ironwood, Michigan
- My Favorite Places to Visit in the Plains & Western Midwest
- - #8. Spearfish, South Dakota - #9. Fargo, ND - #10. Lincoln, Nebraska
- Upper Midwest – Iowa: - #12. Ames
- Around the Great Lakes - Illinois - #13. Chicago, Illinois
- Central Midwest / Indiana - #14. Indianapolis, IN
- - East North Central: #15. Ohio
My Favorite Places to Visit in Upper Midwest / Lake Superior & Northwoods
The Upper Midwest holds a special kind of magic, and one of my favorites for a family weekend getaways. Why? From the rugged shores of Lake Superior to the quiet serenity of the Northwoods, this region offers us a place to slow down, go on a digital detox, and reconnect with nature for a few days.
Ely, MN - Grand Ely Lodge
I thought this was one of the best weekend getaways from Minneapolis, Minnesota. Why? Now, first things first, there are the super nice views of Shagawa Lake! In addition, the town of Ely itself is perfection if you are like us and love the outdoors.
You can take the kids hiking, biking, birding, fishing and camping during the warmer season. In the winter, there's no need to stay indoors either! Choose from snowshoeing, skiing and dog sledding. These activities are centered around the Superior National Forest and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness.
Our room for two days at Grand Ely Lodge had everything we needed. The balcony with lake views was my favorite. I thought the pool and hot tub were especially nice to come back to after a day outside.
Check rates or availability at 3-star Grand Ely Lodge
What I loved best:
Evening sunsets.
A downside? Some activities weren't available due to our shoulder season visit.
Cornucopia, WI - Siskiwit Bay Lodge
Not many people have heard of Cornucopia, WI and that's exactly why it's one of our favorite places to visit in the Midwest. In fact, I felt like we had discovered one of the most peaceful and spectacular spots in northern Wisconsin. Cornucopia, WI is a hidden gem that's perfectly located if you want to explore Bayfield and the Apostle Islands.
Staying at Siskiwit Bay Lodge is a must, right on the South Shore of Lake Superior. Our room for three care-free days came with a whirlpool tub and a private balcony overlooking the water. You can enjoy handcrafted log details, big stone fireplaces, and lake views from nearly every angle.
Richville, MN - Northern Lights Resort
Richville, MN has just 77 full time residents so I'm pretty sure this is as off-the-beaten path as you can get in the Midwest. It was one of my favorite places to visit on our last minute family getaway. You'll find heaps of lakeside beauty, a cozy cabin, and that signature "Up North" peace.
I love that in addition to lakeside cabins, you can choose from seasonal and affordable RV sites at the Northern Lights Resort to suit any travel style (and budget!). I instantly thought our journey was worth it!
We drove about 3 hours north from Minneapolis towards Voyageurs National Park to reach Northern Lights Resort. Chris, our son and I stayed in a lakeside cabin for a 3-day long weekend. The cabin was very comfortable, with air-conditioning, and a fully equipped kitchen.
If you love to stay active on the water, visiting in the summer is a must! You get access to a sandy beach, paddle boards, kayaks, a water trampoline, and even a bait barn. The snack store makes it easy (and affordable) to keep the kids fed.
Check rates or availability at Northern Lights Resort
Two Rivers, Wisconsin
Now, first things first, Two Rivers is right on the shores of Lake Michigan so you can count on amazing vacation photos! Secondly, this is one of the most unspoiled stretches of Midwestern lakeshore we’ve ever visited.
Two Rivers has just over 11,000 year-round residents but is close enough to the bigger Manitowoc (just 15 minutes by car) that you can't possibly get bored.
First head to Neshotah Beach to enjoy some swimming and sunbathing. I loved how peaceful it felt.
The historic downtown is a lovely road trip stop. If you want to get your kids interested in history, you can take them to where the ice cream sundae was invented in 1881. It all happened at Ed Berners' Ice Cream Parlor in Two Rivers (still open today!) when a customer requested chocolate syrup on his ice cream!
Rogers Street Fishing Village is another cool stop in town to learn about maritime history in the Midwest.
What I loved best:
Rogers Street Days in August. You'll find live music, games for kids and yummy food.
The Wisconsin Dells
This area may be most famous for its waterparks, but there’s so much more to discover if you are like us and love the outdoors. You'll find towering sandstone cliffs and peaceful river views all around. Honestly, I love it equally in the summer as in the winter but I have to warn you to dress warmly.
Just a few hours from both Milwaukee and from Chicago, The Wisconsin Dells is a perfect day trip and weekend destination in the Midwest. Since there is so much to take in, we decided to join a guided tour with a local guide on our first visit which I recommend for you.
If you are short on time, Devil’s Lake State Park trails are the best for panoramic views. For lunch, visit downtown Wisconsin Dells. There's lots of choice for food. If you are still there in the evening, catch a show at the historic Wilcox Theater!
Ironwood, Michigan
This is one of my favorite places to visit in Michigan because it offers a bit of everything. You'll see quiet forests, a small town, and some of the most beautiful fall colors in the Midwest (I recommend taking the chairlift to the top). Plus, the giant Hiawatha statue was one of the most unusual roadside attractions I’ve ever seen!
Brainerd, Minnesota
Ready for a lakeside escape about two hours from the Twin Cities? Check out Brainerd, a real standout and one of my favorite places to visit in the Midwest! Brainerd is surrounded by some of the most beautiful lakes in the state. I recommend a summer visit if you are going for the first time. That way, you can rent a boat and spend the afternoon fishing and swimming.
Also be sure to check out family-friendly attractions like the Northland Arboretum and the classic Paul Bunyan Land theme park. You can find an affordable Airbnb for a longer stay and enjoy local dining downtown.
My Favorite Places to Visit in the Plains & Western Midwest
These places may be quieter and less traveled, but I think that’s exactly where their charm lies. Here are our favorite stops and I hope you enjoy them too on your weekend getaway or longer road trip.
Spearfish, South Dakota
Planning to explore South Dakota's Black Hills? Spearfish provides a great base for exploring this area. Here you'll find waterfalls, hiking trails, and a lovely Spearfish downtown. I spent the morning walking along Spearfish Creek (you can see trout through the water), and the afternoon relaxing at a local café.
If you love scenic drives, Spearfish Canyon is a must-see in early spring!
Fargo, ND
Nicknamed, the "Gateway to the West" Google Maps pin for its strategic location during the 19th century expansion westward, this place charmed us with its friendly Midwest downtown. Over two days we soaked up Fargo’s highlights: exploring the eclectic exhibits at the Plains Art Museum, catching a film at the classic Fargo Theatre, sampling craft brews, and visiting vintage shops in the Warehouse District. I have to warn you, though, that parking can be a challenge on weekends and near Fargo Theatre!
My favorite spot for lunch was Herd & Horns. We had great burgers and tacos at this family-friendly sports bar just off the campus of North Dakota State University.
What I loved best:
Starting my morning at Youngblood Coffee Roasters was my personal highlight.
Need a place to stay? I think that 3-star Hotel Donaldson is a great choice. It has local artwork and rooftop views, so it's unique as well as affordable.
Lincoln, Nebraska
Just an hour from Omaha, lies one of my favorite places in Nebraska. I recommend starting in the historic Haymarket District. You can stop for coffee or lunch if you are hungry when you arrive. The Nebraska State Capitol is a must visit. The art deco design, mosaics, and murals are well worth your time. Plus the observation deck has the best views.
The Sheldon Museum of Art on the University of Nebraska campus was an unexpected gem if you love art.
Need a recommendation for an overnight stay? Check prices at Graduate Lincoln.
What I loved best:
The Sunken Gardens was my personal highlight while staying in the "Star City". The flowers, fountains, and quiet paths provided a calm reset on our weekend getaway.
My Favorite Places to Visit in the Upper Midwest – Iowa
Ames, Iowa
This is one of those Midwest towns that instantly puts me at ease and it quickly became one of my favorite places to visit in Iowa. You'll find Ames just about half an hour north of Des Moines. I think it's close enough for a quick weekend escape without having to do a lot of driving.
I recommend heading to Iowa State University first because it truly sets the tone for the city. I loved walking through the campus, stopping by the Memorial Union, and admiring the famous campanile (in the photo).
One of my favorite stops in the afternoon was Reiman Gardens, a spectacular 17-acre botanical garden right next to Jack Trice Stadium.
In the evening, Downtown Ames offered us plenty to see.
What I loved best:
The Butterfly Wing at Reiman Gardens was my personal highlight. It felt like stepping into a dream with heaps of butterflies and exotic flowers.
My Favorite Places to Visit Around the Great Lakes - Illinois
No list of best midwest weekend getaways could be complete without mentioning Chicago, the heart of my favorite Great Lakes experiences in Illinois.
Chicago, Illinois
I think this one of the absolute best urban destinations in the Midwest. Seeing the skyline rise over Lake Michigan is always very special. To get started somewhere unique, head to Dreambox Gallery in Wicker Park. It's a hidden gem that combines art, creativity, and community in a very unique way.
I like heading to Monk’s Pub for lunch because of its unique Old World decor.
Of course, you can't possibly skip Chicago’s classic attractions: Millennium Park, and enjoying the lakefront trail.
Need a place to stay? There are lots of options, from hotels to holiday rentals. Check prices at Palmer House Hilton where we stayed 3 days.
What I loved best:
For me, Chicago, is one of the best places to visit in Illinois and one of the best Midwest weekend getaways because it has so many great attractions, activities and restaurants!
Taking in the spectacular view from the Skydeck was my favorite highlight!
Best Day Trips Around Central Midwest - Indiana
And, finally...
Indianapolis, Indiana
Although Indiana is the Midwest state I know the least, we loved visiting Indianapolis. We flew from Austin to "Circle City" (2 hour 15 minute nonstop flight) and used public transportation during our stay. I have to warn you that traffic looked challenging during rush hour so I was glad I wasn't driving.
In downtown Indianapolis our first stop was the Canal Walk which I learned dates back to the 1800s! In addition, I thought that the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields ($23 Adult admission) is a must see hidden gem I was glad I made time for. If you have kids, don't miss The Children's Museum of Indianapolis ($30 Adult, from $25 Youth Admission) which has been ranked #1 in the country and my son loves it. Indianapolis Zoo (from $26.75 Adult, $23.75 Child) was another highlight for our family.
For dinner, Spoke & Steele inside the beautiful Le Meridien Indianapolis was a standout.
What I loved best:
For me, Indianapolis is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest.
My personal highlight was the Canal Walk at sunset because it really made me appreciate the city’s unique character.
In addition, over our tree-day long weekend, we sampled great food at restaurants downtown, including great breakfast at Cafe Patachou, Bazbeaux Pizza for a casual family lunch, Harry & Izzy's and St. Elmo Steak House for steaks, The Capital Grille for delicious seafood.
Ohio
No worries I didn't forget Ohio. It's actually the state I know best and I've already written a lot about it for romantic couples, beaches and Ohio day trips.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, we've found that buying the America the Beautiful Pass is cost effective.
