Detroit's impressive selection of museums, which includes the Detroit Institute of Arts, the Motown Museum and The Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History, also shouldn't be missed. Considered one of the nation's top birding spots, Horicon Marsh sits just an hour northeast of Madison. Theres no shortage of fun family-friendly activities in this lake destination. Reserve a spot before sunrise or sunset in at Rowe Sanctuary or Crane Trust. And, if you prefer a more relaxing activity, camp or fish in this state park. Visit the palace during its peak season, which is from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Since 1879, this 364-acre amusement park in Sandusky has been thrilling visitors with its mind-blowing rides. Labeled as the only corn palace in the world, this multi-purpose venue draws around 500,000 visitors annually. Required fields are marked *. Wisconsin Dells Courtesy of CHARLES - Fotolia.com The changing leaves draw thousands of visitors every year to admire them on peaceful hikes. Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame are essential attractions to visit here. Vendors sell peppery bologna sandwiches and buttery pancakes called poffertjes. gfp.sd.gov. Check out ourtwo-day trip guide to Kearney and Grand Island. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Mitchell SD, 0170, 403 MO-134Kaiser, MO 65047(5730 348-2694. You may also experience the Ledge, and see downtown Chicago beneath your own feet through its crystal clear glass. Copyright Family Destinations Guide 2023. The National Lakeshore is absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a visit when youre in Michigan. Badlands National Park is a cant-miss stuff to do in Americas Heartland. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. this link is to an external site that may or may not meet accessibility guidelines. Mount Rushmore 1300 SD-244 Keystone, SD 57751 (605) 574-2523 See Ticket Price for Tour that Includes This Activity If youre looking for some of the most beautiful places in the United States to visit, I suggest heading to Scotts Bluff National Monument. 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. The truth is, you dont have to travel to Alaska, Canada, Norway or Iceland, to catch this striking natural phenomenon. Got Mackinac and Wichita on my list. The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. But if you're hungering for a slower, more authentic experience, follow the buggies along Holmes County's backroads to the farms and shops of everyday Amish life. Looking for a fun Midwest vacation for families? Youll find a wide range of options for family fun and entertainment at this amusement park. For centuries, the island has been a favorite vacation spot in Michigan, thanks to its natural wonders and unforgettable sunsets. Alternatively, you may bike along the beautiful Bear Heritage Trail. On warm, sunny days, visitors will also want to take advantage of Minnesota's natural beauty by going for a stroll through the Chain of Lakes byway district or Minnehaha Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas. Through its carved granite faces, this sculpture symbolizes the American dream and the ideals of democracy and freedom. The Roofless Church, an open-air domed sculpture with no seating, and nearby Harmonie State Park also encourage quiet communion with nature. Ford Drive-In is truly one of the most captivating and nostalgic things to do in the Midwest tonight. Be sure to venture a few miles northwest of downtown Branson to Silver Dollar City, an 1880s-style theme park with skilled artisans and more than 40 rides. The city also has a botanical garden, museums, and more. Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit its beautiful Black Hills. You can also drop by its museum, and uncover the story of the rebels, pioneers and explorers who helped shape America. Remember to set aside time for perusing some of the city's top museums, too, including The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Arabia Steamboat Museum. It is a great tourist attraction in Iowa. Thats why were helping you craft a memorable trip here by featuring the best things to do in the Midwest. Another runs a microbakery from her home. If youre looking for a unique family vacation in the Midwest, then I suggest going camping! Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. Two own businesses with their spouses. Identity thieves are everywhere. Madison 4. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viceroy Chicago, 604 N Main StMitchell, SD 57301(605) 995-8430. Cobblers and blacksmiths work in the pretty Pella Historical Village. I was born and raised in the Midwest. One of the coolest things to do in Missouri is to see the ruins in Ha Ha Tonka State Park. Whats more, the island has a host of historical marvels. And, since we only live once, you have to be a bit choosy when making a to-do list in this region. Branson's 76 Country Boulevard is still lined with the. Been to Omaha but not Lincoln, loved it! North Dakota actually had a lot of Scandinavian immigrants in the 1800s. Fun Fact: More than 85 percent of the homes in Galena are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Its easily one of the most popular of South Dakotas National Parks. The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. 1. You can also satisfy your taste buds with juicy BBQ goodies at joints, like Fiorellas Jack State Barbecue and Arthur Bryants. Founded in 1894, this nationally famous zoo is beloved for its animal research and conservation. Completed in 1921, this Moorish Revival structure is decorated with designs and murals that are made from corn. Starved Rock State Park beckons visitors with 18 eye-catching canyons that were carved over the millennia by glacial meltwater. To make your trip even more memorable, drop by the Desert Dome and the Lied Jungle, which is one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world. Follow these steps (and allow plenty of time) to get your child a passport. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stay USA Hotel and Suites. Mitchell Corn Palace is located in Mitchell South Dakota. Celebrated annually since 1854, this internationally renowned state fair in Des Moines draws more than a million visitors. One of the most popular attractions in Lincoln is Pioneer Park. And, since we only live once, you have to be a bit choosy when making a to-do list in this region. Check out the Catholic school's stunning Basilica of the Sacred Heart, which features stained-glass windows and ceiling frescoes. See and be seen at these stunning natural wonders. 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. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This national park makes up a large portion of South Dakota. Rome is a city for sightseeing, which is far better done on milder spring days (15-20C; 59-68F) than in the depths of winter or heights of summer. 22, 2023, Whether you're looking for an extended vacation or a, Indianapolis beckons sports lovers with its annual IndyCar and NASCAR racing events and professional basketball, football and soccer teams. You'll also want to venture a couple blocks southeast to the Lincoln Children's Zoo, which houses more than 400 animals. The land was eventually purchased by the state of Missouri and became a State Park. Then, take a ranger-led tour to learn more about the history of Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills. Thousands of daffodils nod their cheerful yellow faces at spring visitors to Botanica gardens, while the city's Old Town has more than 100 shops and restaurants. Illinois is actually full of some beautiful waterfalls. There are tons and tons of things to do in Indianapolis! 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. One of the city's top attractions is the Brown v. Board of Education National Historic Site, which includes a small indoor area with exhibits and a handful of outdoor areas, such as a historic playground and a nature trail. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes. It is always important to protect your personal information. Buses, trains and very few automobilescheck out these out-of-the-ordinary holiday lights displays. If youre looking to stay in a cabin in the Midwest for a glamping experience, you cant go wrong staying near Maquoketa Caves State Park. Depending on whom you ask, the United States' Midwest includes Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, . If you'd rather spend time outdoors, visit the Green Bay Botanical Garden to admire its beautiful blooms and art installations. Admission to the museum is free, which is another reason its so popular. Throughout the city, youll also find some amazing murals. In the Black Hills National Forest, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. Today, visitors can walk through the ruins and they have become one of the most popular places to visit in the Midwest when youre in Missouri. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill Des Moines, 1100 E 9th StCleveland, OH 44114(216) 781-7625. A redesigned interior and exterior opened in April 2015. Copyright 2023 Meredith Corporation. Lilac Festival in Mackinac Island, Michigan, Eliel Saarinen's First Christian Church and Henry Moore's Large Arch sculpture, Columbus, Indiana. 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. The Lake of the Ozarks has more shoreline than Californias coast. Even the campus of Purdue University is full of beautiful historic buildings to admire. You may be surprised to learn that North Dakota has a Scandinavian Heritage Park. Hydration is so important when traveling. Once done, head inside, and see countless world-class pieces of art. Other great places to visit on your Midwest weekend getaway include Lincoln, Door County, Omaha, Traverse City, Saugatuck, and many others. Whats more, its the Western Hemispheres highest man-made monument and the tallest accessible building in Missouri. Other local must-sees include the Speedway Motors Museum of American Speed and the Nebraska State Capitol. Book your next cruise vacation on one of these floating megaresorts. One of America's best displays of modern architecture waits in Columbus, which knows how to blend small-city hospitality with modern style. Likewise, head to the Pinnacles Overlook, and savor arguably the most magical sunset in the Midwest. Constructed by Gary Greff, this whimsical highway is home to the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world the 100-foot tall Geese In Flight. Some of our favorites include the Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis, where tens of thousands of tulips and daffodils burst into bloom each year; The Holden Arboretum in Kirtland, Ohio (pictured), with its lovely 20-acre rhododendron garden; and the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum in Madison, where crabapples and lilacs steal the show in early May at the Longenecker Horticultural Gardens. Not only does it have freshwater beaches, but it also has hidden escapes and towering bluffs. The Eternal City was founded on 21 April 753 BCE, and every year it celebrates with events, light shows and truck-loads of fireworks. Stroll through the sculpture garden, and be enticed by its beautiful trees and art pieces. Head to the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, and experience a variety of activities, including lantern-lit tours, boat rentals and beaches. In 1980, this national park in Michigan was recognized as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve. There is a 6-mile loop trail that can be a bit tricky, but the reward is definitely worth the effort. Fans of American painter Grant Wood can visit the studio where his famous farm-themed piece "American Gothic" was painted before heading to the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art to see the world's largest collection of Wood's work. The Scotts Bluff National Monument is one of the top attractions in Nebraska. There are so many amazing places to visit in the Midwest. Settling in towards the end of the month, rain increases and is pretty much a daily feature till June. Spanning 242,756 acres, this national park in South Dakota is Americas largest grassland expanse. Millersburgs Victorian House Museum is filled with displays highlighting the largest Amish settlement in Ohio. 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. This Missouri town abuts Table Rock Lake and provides an abundance of family-friendly activities. Like the brandy in an Old-Fashioned, these timeless institutions only get better with age. No matter what youre interested in, there is something in Indianapolis to entertain you. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Cincinnati Music Hall. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. You cant go wrong spending time at one of the most beautiful places in the United States. When you need a break from the water, hit the links at one of several golf courses or enjoy a day of wine tasting on the Lake of the Ozarks Wine Trail. Rising from Lake Superiors waters, this remote oasis is perfect for anyone who wants to escape their monotonous daily grind. Just head to Ontonagon, between September and March, and youll have a rare chance to see this unearthly natural light show. Lafayette is one of the coolest Midwest vacation spots for history lovers. You might see buffalo, too. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind. Even though many people may associate the Midwest with cold weather, thats not always the case. Minnesota 1. 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. From crystal clear freshwater beaches to electrifying cities, these states feature an endless array of activities to pique your interest. Your email address will not be published. This impressive protected area stretches 64 miles along Lake Michigan's coast and sits about 30 miles northwest of Traverse City, providing visitors countless opportunities to camp, hike, sunbathe and more. Mitchell Corn Palace In South Dakota Is One Of The Most Unique Places To Visit In The Midwest There are many unique hidden gems in the Midwest that make for awesome Midwestern vacations. If youre dreaming of a memorable family vacation with endless splashy fun, then youll love the Dells. There are tons of reasons to make Lafayette your next Midwestern vacation destination. Related: 8 Spectacular Spring Flower Festivals to Experience Around the Midwest. The Iowa State Fair is a feast for the senses. 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. I absolutely love it! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bowman Lodge & Convention Center, 484 Wooster RdMillersburg, OH 44654(330) 674-0022. Duluth, like many of the Great Lakes towns on this Midwest family vacations list, offers lots of outdoor activities for families. One has conquered the world of plant-based baking. Starting around mid-March, half a million Sandhill cranes stop to rest and feed along the Platte River between Grand Island and North Platte. Watch the inductee videos and short films within the museum. The town is filled with more than 70 buildings created by famed architects, giving Columbus (a city of 45,000) a skyline that mixes 20th-century masterpieces with 19th-century structures. Related: This Unique Way to Explore Bayfield Focuses on Wellness and Outdoor Adventure. Otherwise, the college's campus is definitely worth strolling through. Where to Eat: Fiddlesticks Food & Spirits Company, Becky Thatcher's Diner, Mark Twain Brewery, and Becky's Old Fashioned Ice Cream Parlor and Emporium. If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. Hike, bike, or take a pontoon or paddling trip to explore this area. It was originally built in 1892 and for over 100 years it has been welcoming visitors. 17 Romantic Getaways in MichiganCouples Will Love - Midwest Explored, 15 Best Things To Do In Michigan City IN You Shouldn't Miss - Midwest Explored, 15 Small Towns in Iowa You Must Visit - Midwest Explored, 15 Best Places To Go Camping In Illinois - Midwest Explored, https://midwestexplored.com/privacy-policy/. Theres also plenty of wildlife to see within the park, including bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and bison. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Door County is one of the most romantic places to visit in the Midwest. It is a unique rock formation that Native Americans once used as a landmark when they were traveling. Moreover, the fair offers antique shows, flea markets, live exhibits and auto shows. So make sure you check their calendar of events before you plan your trip. All Rights Reserved. A spring pedal on the Root River Trail reveals southern Minnesota's finest-scenic landscapes, food and drink, even native troutwithout the summer crowd. Grand Rapids provides an array of attractions suitable for Michigan's second-largest city. Spring comes early in the Ohio River town of Madison, Indiana. X27 ; Midwest includes Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, places to visit in the midwest in april # x27 ; Midwest includes Iowa Illinois. Experience around the Midwest with cold weather, thats not always the case western edge South. Loop Trail that can be a bit choosy when making a to-do list this! Find some amazing murals starved Rock State Park also encourage quiet communion with nature to your... Best displays of modern architecture waits in Columbus, which knows how to blend small-city with! 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