By Map Of United States Midwest Region Travel Guide
Explore the Best of Midwest Region
The Midwest region of the United States is a vast area spread over 12 states with diverse landscapes, cultures and attractions. From the bustling cities of Chicago and Detroit to the serene natural wonders of the Great Lakes and the rolling hills of the Ozarks, the Midwest offers a unique travel experience for all types of travelers. Whether you are a foodie, history buff, adventure seeker or nature lover, this travel guide has got you covered.
Top Attractions
When it comes to top attractions, the Midwest has plenty to offer. Visit the iconic Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago, the Mall of America in Minnesota, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. Take a scenic drive along the Great River Road in Iowa, hike in the Ozark National Forest in Arkansas, or explore the Mackinac Island in Michigan.
Hidden Gems
The Midwest is also home to many hidden gems that are waiting to be discovered. Visit the unique City Museum in St. Louis, the historic Silver Beach Carousel in Michigan, the vibrant arts district in Fargo, and the charming town of Galena in Illinois. Take a hot air balloon ride in Iowa, go kayaking in the Boundary Waters in Minnesota, or explore the Shawnee Hills Wine Trail in Illinois.
Food Scene
The Midwest is a food lover’s paradise with a diverse range of cuisines to choose from. Try the famous deep-dish pizza in Chicago, the BBQ in Kansas City, the cheese curds in Wisconsin, and the hot dish in Minnesota. Visit the local farmers markets in Iowa, the wineries in Missouri, and the craft breweries in Michigan.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? The Midwest offers many affordable options for travelers. Stay in budget-friendly hotels, hostels or campgrounds. Visit free attractions like the Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago or the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Take advantage of happy hour specials in bars and restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
The Midwest is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts with plenty of activities to choose from. Go camping in the Badlands of South Dakota, hike the trails in the Ozarks, or bike along the Katy Trail in Missouri. Enjoy water sports like kayaking, fishing, and boating in the Great Lakes or go skiing in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
Historical Landmarks
The Midwest is also rich in history with many landmarks and museums to explore. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Illinois, the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan, or the National World War I Museum in Kansas City. Learn about the Lewis and Clark expedition in Missouri or the history of the fur trade in Minnesota.
Family-Friendly Activities
The Midwest is a great destination for families with plenty of activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Children’s Museum in Indianapolis, the Science Museum of Minnesota, or the Adventureland Amusement Park in Iowa. Take a family-friendly bike ride along the Lakefront Trail in Chicago or go on a wildlife safari in Nebraska.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you are looking for unique experiences, the Midwest won’t disappoint. Visit the world’s largest ball of twine in Kansas, the Corn Palace in South Dakota, or the Mystery Spot in Michigan. Explore the Amana Colonies in Iowa, the Amish Country in Ohio, or the Scandinavian Heritage Park in North Dakota.
Natural Wonders
The Midwest is home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders in the country. Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin, the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore in Michigan, or the Badlands National Park in South Dakota. See the Northern Lights in Minnesota or go stargazing in the Flint Hills of Kansas.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Midwest may not be known for its nightlife, but it has plenty to offer for those who love to party. Visit the bars and clubs in the historic Soulard district of St. Louis, the brewery scene in Grand Rapids, or the music venues in Minneapolis. Enjoy live music, comedy shows, and theater performances in Chicago or Kansas City.
Local Markets
The Midwest is known for its local markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique souvenirs. Visit the Green City Market in Chicago, the Eastern Market in Detroit, or the Des Moines Farmers Market. Sample the local cheese, wine, and beer at the farmer’s markets in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan.
Beaches and Mountains
The Midwest offers a diverse range of landscapes from beaches to mountains. Visit the beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, or Lake Erie. Hike the trails in the Ozarks or the Black Hills of South Dakota. Ski in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan or the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.
Cultural Immersion
The Midwest is a melting pot of cultures with many opportunities for cultural immersion. Attend the Greek Festival in Chicago, the Oktoberfest in Milwaukee, or the Scandinavian Festival in Minnesota. Visit the museums and cultural centers that showcase the history and traditions of the Native American tribes, the African American community, and the immigrant populations.
Art and Music Scene
The Midwest has a thriving arts and music scene with many festivals, galleries, and performances to choose from. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, or the Art Museum of Greater Lafayette in Indiana. Attend the Lollapalooza music festival in Chicago or the Summerfest in Milwaukee.
Walking Tours
The Midwest cities offer many walking tours that allow you to explore the history and architecture of the region. Take a walking tour of the historic neighborhoods in Chicago, the riverfront in St. Louis, or the downtown areas of Des Moines and Minneapolis. Learn about the history of the Civil War in Kansas or the Underground Railroad in Ohio.
Architectural Marvels
The Midwest is home to many architectural marvels that are worth visiting. Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright homes in Oak Park, Illinois, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, or the Indiana State Capitol in Indianapolis. Explore the historic buildings in Detroit or the skyscrapers in Chicago.
Historical Sites
The Midwest has a rich history that is reflected in its many historical sites and landmarks. Visit the Old State Capitol in Springfield, Illinois, the Fort Snelling in Minnesota, or the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum in Missouri. Explore the Lincoln sites in Indiana or the Wright Brothers National Memorial in Ohio.
Biking Routes
The Midwest offers many scenic biking routes that allow you to explore the beauty of the region. Bike along the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio, the Katy Trail in Missouri, or the Root River Trail in Minnesota. Enjoy the scenery along the Lakefront Trail in Chicago or the Wabash Trace Nature Trail in Iowa.
Wellness Retreats
The Midwest also offers many wellness retreats that allow you to relax and rejuvenate. Visit the Sundara Inn and Spa in Wisconsin, the Ritz Carlton Spa in Chicago, or the Mayo Clinic Healthy Living Program in Minnesota. Enjoy yoga, meditation, and spa treatments in the scenic surroundings of the Midwest.
Adventure Sports
The Midwest is not just about the scenic beauty and cultural attractions, but also offers many adventure sports for thrill-seekers. Try skydiving in Illinois, whitewater rafting in Minnesota, or ziplining in Missouri. Go bungee jumping in Indiana or rock climbing in Michigan.
With so much to offer, the Midwest region of the United States is a must-visit destination for all types of travelers. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your next trip and explore the best of the Midwest.