midwest solo travel

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.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Protect Your Trip »

Best weekend getaways in the midwest.

Twelve states make up America's Midwest, known for its friendly people and rolling fields filled with crops like corn and soybeans. Breaking up the agricultural areas found throughout America's heartland are small river towns, scenic escapes on the Great Lakes and sprawling metropolitan areas, providing countless destinations for weekend warriors. U.S. News considered factors like dining options, opportunities for adventure and value to decide the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. Use this list to plan your next adventure, then weigh in by voting for your favorite location below.

Mackinac Island

Wisconsin dells, black hills national forest, lake of the ozarks, traverse city, madison, wi, kansas city, minneapolis - st. paul, hocking hills state park, door county, voyageurs national park.

Located between Michigan's Upper and Lower peninsulas, Mackinac Island beckons to visitors who want to relax and unwind. 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 Huron destination's small-town charm. Mackinac Island State Park occupies most of the island, providing visitors with countless opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, biking and horseback riding. What's more, Mackinac Island offers a variety of eateries serving everything from American comfort classics to its famous fudge.

The self-proclaimed "Water Park Capital of the World" draws families keen on enjoying its diverse selection of water-themed attractions. Because many of the top-notch water parks offer indoor pools and slides, they remain open even as temperatures begin to drop. But water parks are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Wisconsin Dells' offerings. This southern Wisconsin town features multiple resorts , golf courses and casinos, plus it sits about 20 miles northwest of Cascade Mountain and its impressive ski slopes.

As the Midwest's largest metropolitan area, the Windy City is a popular option for a weekend getaway. Chicago houses numerous parks, including ones with lakefront beaches or iconic sculptures like "The Bean." Plus, the city boasts incredible architecture, which is best viewed from the water during a river cruise or while boating on Lake Michigan, and is a haven for foodies thanks to its smorgasbord of ethnic cuisine, ranging from Greek to Mexican to Polish. No weekend trip would be complete without visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Make your way to the western edge of South Dakota to visit the beautiful Black Hills National Forest. The small mountain range is surrounded by 1.2 million acres of protected wilderness and is a haven for outdoorsy types. In the Black Hills, you can hike, bike, ride horses and go rock climbing, among other activities. The Black Hills is also famous for housing Mount Rushmore National Memorial, which features giant mountainside busts of four American presidents. If you don't want to camp during your visit, plan on staying in Rapid City, the closest major city to the Black Hills.

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. Plan on spending most of your time at this central Missouri lake destination on or around the water. Rent a boat to explore and access waterfront spots like Lake of the Ozarks State Park, Bridal Cave and various restaurants and resorts. 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.

This Minnesota city on the shores of Lake Superior is ideal for a weekend getaway. In the Canal Park area, visitors can bike or walk along the Lakewalk, a nearly 8-mile path that follows the shoreline, snap pictures of the Aerial Lift Bridge and peruse local art galleries. Travelers can also experience the city's finer features by touring all 39 rooms at Glensheen, a historic estate built in the early 1900s, or booking a first-class ticket in a domed train car on the North Shore Scenic Railroad. What's more, refreshments are easy to come by with Duluth's selection of lakeside eateries and breweries.

With attractions like the Omaha Children's Museum and the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, Omaha is a solid choice for a family trip. But this Nebraska hub appeals to all travelers with its history (best showcased at The Durham Museum), nature attractions (like the Lauritzen Gardens botanical center) and a thriving arts community (including interactive performing arts venues). Omaha also features a noteworthy food scene, with neighborhoods like the Blackstone District, home of the Reuben sandwich, and venues ranging from old-school steakhouses to award-winning sushi establishments.

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. 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. Closer to town, travelers can explore Grand Traverse Bay or one of the region's lakes via kayak or canoe. Adults also appreciate Traverse City's selection of wineries and microbreweries, while families enjoy visiting museums like The Music House Museum, which showcases rare organs and pianos.

Wisconsin's capital city is where you'll find the flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin. The university plays a significant part in the city's cultural offerings by way of on-campus sights like Memorial Union, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum and the Chazen Museum of Art. Still, the city offers its own share of noteworthy attractions, including the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the Henry Vilas Zoo and the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. 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.

As one of the fastest-growing cities in the Midwest, Iowa's capital has a lot going for it. Situated in the center of a state known for its farming, Des Moines offers true farm-to-table cuisine, as well as the much-lauded Downtown Farmers' Market with 300-plus vendors. Meanwhile, boutiques abound in the quaint East Village district, and bikers can pedal their way along more than 800 miles of trails, including the High Trestle Trail, which crosses a 13-story bridge. Visit in the summer to make the most of your time outdoors and to take advantage of events like the 80/35 music festival.

Milwaukee's hearty comfort food and eclectic collection of museums and historical sites are sure to appeal to all kinds of weekend visitors. The city's foremost museums are the Harley-Davidson Museum, which spans 20 acres along the riverfront, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, which boasts three futuristic-looking buildings and a collection with more than 30,000 pieces. 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 (just don't skip the cheese curds).

Cincinnati's location on the Ohio River makes it easy to reach from other parts of Ohio, plus nearby states like Indiana and Kentucky. Many of Cincinnati's top parks, including 186-acre Eden Park, overlook the river, providing countless opportunities for scenic strolls. What's more, Cincinnati is packed with can't-miss museums, such as the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center and the Cincinnati Art Museum. Not to mention, fans of spectacle can catch a Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park or a show at Music Hall.

The Gateway Arch towers 630 feet over St. Louis and marks the city's status as the "Gateway to the West." St. Louis' diverse selection of affordable things to do makes it an excellent weekend destination for Midwesterners on a budget. Head to Forest Park to visit the Saint Louis Art Museum and the renowned Saint Louis Zoo , neither of which charges an entry fee. 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.

Kansas City straddles the border of Missouri and Kansas, putting the surprisingly trendy city within driving distance of a number of Midwestern destinations. Jazz and barbecue set the city apart, so be sure to decide which restaurants and venues you plan to visit in advance. Kansas City's Country Club Plaza – which offers an assortment of eateries and stores, and sits within walking distance of a number of hotels – is also worth checking out. 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.

The side-by-side cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul provide no shortage of attractions for visitors to marvel over. Travelers can spend the weekend perusing the exhibits at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, attending productions at the Guthrie Theater or getting a dose of local history at sights like the Minnesota State Capitol and the Minnesota History Center. 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 Regional Park, which sits a few miles south of the Twin Cities' downtown areas.

Thrill-seekers flock to this Ohio destination on Lake Erie for its world-class amusement park – Cedar Point. The park's 70 rides, including a whopping 18 roller coasters, are its main draw, but the sprawling water park and entertainment options also impress travelers of all ages. Beyond the mega-park, this coastal town also boasts family-owned dining venues and the Ohio Cheers Trail, which highlights local breweries, distilleries and wineries. Plus, cruises to the neighboring islands of Put-in-Bay and Kelleys Island are an ideal way to slow things down after an action-packed day.

Less than an hour's drive from Columbus, Ohio, Hocking Hills State Park is the perfect nature-filled weekend escape. Hocking Hills State Park's deep gorges, sandstone cliffs and leafy forests are beautiful in any season – whether dotted with wildflowers in the spring or covered with ice formations in winter. Travelers can hike to popular spots like the Ash Cave and Cedar Falls, climb the park's natural rock walls or kayak and canoe on lakes and rivers. Plus, with modern A-frames and trendy cabins to rent in the surrounding area, you'll have all the comforts of home on your getaway.   

Whether you're seeking natural splendor, villages full of character or a weekend of sampling some of the Midwest's finest cuisine, Door County, Wisconsin, will deliver. Located on a peninsula in Lake Michigan about 70 miles northeast of Green Bay, Door County boasts 300 miles of shoreline and countless parks that add up to 23,000 acres. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, explore the art galleries, lighthouses and museums in communities like Egg Harbor, Fish Creek and Sturgeon Bay. Don’t miss out on the region's must-try food experiences: cherry picking, cheese tasting and dining at a traditional Wisconsin supper club.

Within comfortable driving distance of Chicago, Milwaukee and Cedar Rapids, this northwest Illinois town is a top option for an old-fashioned Midwestern weekend getaway. Galena is full of small-town charm, with bespoke experiences like antique tractor driving and carving workshops, historical sites like the home of Ulysses S. Grant and a Hallmark-worthy Main Street. Plus, the surrounding region offers bucolic rolling hills, antique shops, wineries, farms and 19th-century bed-and-breakfasts. With events throughout the year (including the popular Great Galena Balloon Race in June), as well as seasonal skiing, Galena is a great getaway any time of year.

To make the most of your weekend, you'll want to hit the road early to get to this harder-to-reach Minnesota destination (about 300 miles north of Minneapolis on the Canadian border). Most of Voyageurs National Park, which is characterized by calm lakes, aromatic evergreens and granite cliffs, is only accessible by boat, meaning you'll be fully immersed in its natural beauty. If you're visiting in the summer, rent a houseboat for a unique lodging option. But colder seasons have their charms, too. Since the park is a phenomenal place to see the northern lights , the sky may just put on a show for you as the nights get longer. 

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Indianapolis

Grand Rapids

Columbus, OH

Michigan City, IN

Brown County, IN

You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

The 7 Best Midwest Road Trips

02/04/2021 by Emily Becker 4 Comments

The Midwest is known for a few things: ranch dressing (yep, even on pizza!), cornfields, and super friendly people. If you haven’t thought about taking a road trip in the Midwest, our top 7 midwest road trip picks will have you packing up your vehicle for your next adventure:

Table of Contents

7. Chicago to St. Louis Along Route 66

Both of these Midwestern cities are stellar destinations in themselves, but there is plenty to see in between while driving along the original Route 66 (now I-55).

• Chicago: You cannot start your trips in Chi-town without going on a boat architecture tour or at least spending part of your day exploring the Art Institute of Chicago.
• Starved Rock State Park : In the small town of Utica, you can find hiking trails that lead to canyons and waterfalls. The park is beautiful all year round (yes, even in the winter when the waterfalls freeze!), but the best time to go is in the fall when the leaves are changing color.
• Pontiac, Illinois: Home to the Route-66 Association of Illinois Hall of Fame and Museum , this town is full of Route-66 memorabilia and murals. Make sure to take a picture with the World’s Largest Covered Wagon while you’re there!
• Springfield, Illinois: If you want to break up the 4 1/2 hour drive, this is an excellent overnight stop. As Illinois capital, Springfield is home to plenty of historic sites, including the home of Abraham Lincoln during his prime years.

6. Davenport, Iowa to Omaha, Nebraska

Take Interstate 80 from Davenport to Omaha and you’re sure to find plenty of hidden gems. Ever wondered where the world’s largest truck stop is? Yep, it’s in Iowa, right on I-80!

• Maquoketa Caves : Before getting too far west, a short detour will take you to Maquoketa Caves State Park, home to a 1,100 foot “dancehall cave ” and a 17-ton “balanced rock”.
• McIntosh Woods State Park : Visitors can “glamp” in a yurt right on Clear Lake. Make sure to reserve your yurt ahead of time, as they are very popular and book fast!
• High Trestle Trail: 28-miles of trails to explore, along with some impressive bridges.
• Lover’s Leap Swinging Bridge: An 8-story high bridge which has some great views.
• Historic Park Inn: The last Frank Lloyd Wright hotel in the world–a great stop for architecture enthusiasts.

5. St. Louis to Kansas City, Missouri

St. Louis is a Midwestern hub of art and culture in itself, making it a great launching point for an epic Missouri road trip.

• City Museum in St. Louis : Check out this art installation-meets-adult playground that is made of salvaged architectural objects.
• Lake of the Ozarks : This is a region of Missouri full of hiking trails, ponds, and lakefront fun. Go on a cave tour and see the impressive limestone formations or simply spend a day on the lake basking in the sun.
• Columbia : Make sure to stop at Rockbridge Memorial State Park and Finger Lakes State Park for hiking, biking, and more outdoor fun. Looking to stay indoors? Spend an afternoon at the Columbia Art League checking out the local art or even taking a class.
• Kansas City : Don’t miss out on the legendary jazz scene by first checking out the American Jazz Museum and maybe even catching a live show in the evening. Can you think of a better way to close out this epic road trip?

4. The Black Hills in South Dakota

This classic road trip is really one for the books. It’s recommended to take at least 7-10 days to drive through The Black Hills in South Dakota, simply because there is so much to see.

• Badlands National Park : Drive the scenic 39-mile loop, which boasts 16 amazing overlooks. The park itself has plenty to do and see, making it the perfect place to start your trip.
• Wind Cave National Park : Adventurous souls can explore what unique rock formations lie within the caves .
• Hot Springs, South Dakota : Ten minutes away from Wind Cave you can find not only some awesome hot spring attractions but also one of the world’s greatest fossil treasures, a mammoth sinkhole .
• Mt. Rushmore : A bucket-list road trip stop , along with the Crazy Horse Memorial. A short 0.6-mile hike will take you closer to the president’s faces, but a more rare site is the overlook on SD-244 where you can see Washington’s profile.

Check out our full South Dakota road trip itinerary here!

3. Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

Ah, Wisconsin. The land of cheese curds, Blue Moon beer, and ultra-enthusiastic football fans. Sounds like the perfect place to kick off a road trip, right?

• Milwaukee : This city is known for having some of the best breweries in the country, so if you’re a beer-enthusiast make sure to check out Lakefront for a tour. The city is also home to the oldest bowling alley in the United States and a haunted concert hall that is a must-visit for music fans.
• Madison : Experience its many lakes–you can even take a tour to learn more about how organizations are working to keep them clean!
• Eugster’s Farm Market : If you want to get a taste of the best produce that Wisconsin has to offer, head 15 minutes south of Madison to Eugster’s. The market isn’t open in the winter, but does have produce available in the spring, summer and fall.
• The House on the Rock : Located in Spring Green, this is an eclectic maze-like interactive museum with surprises at every turn.
• Wisconsin Dells : Take a tour either by house and carriage , boat , or the famous Wisconsin “ ducks “.
• Devil’s Lake State Park : Get out for an epic hike or go kayaking and canoeing at Mirror Lake State Park , which is close by.
• International Crane Foundation: Check out the cranes and learn more about conservation efforts in the area.

2. Michigan – The Mitten to the UP

Michigan is brimming with outdoor activities and hidden gems. From as far south as the Indiana border to as far north as the Canadian border, you can find a wealth of natural wonders and eclectic small towns that make Michigan a magical road trip destination.

• New Buffalo: Close enough to Chicago to be convenient for city-dwellers but far enough to feel like another world, this town is minutes away from Warren Dunes State Park and has a neat European Farmer’s Market that locals love.
• Sleeping Bear Dunes: Located right outside beautiful Traverse City, spend a day (or two!) hiking any one of the trails at Sleeping Bear.
• Ocqueoc Falls: Before you head to the Upper Peninsula, consider resting for the night at Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground where picturesque waterfalls await you.
• Canyon Falls: Known as Michigan’s own version of the Grand Canyon, this breathtaking waterfall is situated south of L’Anse, off US 41 in the Upper Peninsula.
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: The Upper Peninsula has plenty of natural wonders to explore, including the various scenic sites at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

1. Minnesota’s North Shore

Northern Minnesota is a treasure trove of natural beauty. This quick road trip will take you along the shore of Lake Superior on Minnesota State Highway 61.

• Tettegouche State Park : Located near Silver Bay is the picturesque Tettegouche State Park , which boasts stellar waterfalls, hiking, rock climbing, and year-round camping.
• Split Rock Lighthouse: A must-see location famous for its history , Split Rock is another North Shore destination that showcases the beauty of Lake Superior.
• Palisade Head : Just an hour north of Duluth, you’ll find this 932-foot high cliff towering over Lake Superior which attracts plenty of site seers as well as rock climbers.
• Gunflint Trail National Scenic Byway: If you want to take a detour and extend your trip a bit longer, consider taking this scenic route . It’ll take you through the Superior National Forest where you can find short offshoots that lead to campgrounds, lakes, and places to canoe.

First Name:

Whether you’re from the Midwest or have been curious about traveling there, we hope this list inspires the road tripper in you to get out and explore. Who knows, maybe you’ll discover your new favorite hiking trail, camping spot, or quirky small town!

About Emily Becker

Emily Becker is a digital nomad based in Costa Rica. She's been traveling on and off since 2014 and has visited 15 countries—planning to tick many more off her bucket list. In addition to writing for BMTM, she works as a copywriter and project manager.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

 subscribe to our newsletter

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Kristin says

02/04/2021 at 10:32 am

The image on #4, The Black Hills in South Dakota, looks like the Crazy Horse Memorial, but the caption asks if we can see Washington’s profile… I could be wrong, as I haven’t been to Rushmore or the Crazy Horse Memorial, but just in case I’m not, I figure that something you might want to fix (and then you can delete my comment and no one will be the wiser…)

In other news, thanks for this article! I got a new car a few months ago, a Rav4 Hybrid, and I’m excited to take it on some road trips once the weather warms up some. There is lots of info on beautiful places to visit out west, but as an east coaster, I love seeing articles that are a little closer to home. (Best East Coast Road Trips soon??)

02/05/2021 at 3:46 pm

Thanks for the suggestion! We can definitely get some east coast road trip posts up 🙂

02/04/2021 at 8:39 pm

Although I’m from Germany this sparkled my wanderlust for some road trips in the Midwest. I guess I’d go for the Route 66 from Chicago to St. Louis, that sounds really amazing 🙂 Looking forward to travel to the US when it’s possible again..

02/05/2021 at 3:45 pm

I hope you get to come back soon!

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!

Grab your packing essentials for every road trip with kids. Includes the 15 things you don’t want to forget!

I won’t send you spam. I hate spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

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!

Find this article helpful? Save it for later or share it on social media!

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. :)

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. 

The Best Staycation in Every State

15 Epic Fall Foliage Drives With Kids

22 of the Best Places to Camp in the Midwest

6 Best Fall Foliage Drives in Western Pennsylvania

The 10 Most Scenic Road Trips in Colorado

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in Minnesota

Road Trip Ideas From Minneapolis-St. Paul

Best Fall Foliage Drives in the New England States

The 8 Best Vermont Road Trips

Los Angeles to San Francisco on US Highway 101

The Best Outdoor Activity in Every State

Science Says This Is the Perfect U.S. Road Trip

Lewis and Clark Sites in Montana

The Best Small Town in Every State

Your Guide to the U.S. Route 12 Road Trip

The Best Places to See Fall Colors in the USA

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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.

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 .

How to road trip through the Midwest US on a budget

Mar 2, 2022 • 6 min read

A Midwest road trip is a perfect option for a budget-friendly road trip © Visit Milwaukee / JMKE Photography

People who’ve never really considered a visit to “Flyover Country” usually find themselves pleasantly surprised — and sometimes even downright shocked — by just how much there is to see, do and experience in the great American Midwest, often for free.

Defined by wide-open swathes of farmland, friendly small towns and attractive urban cities (not to mention the bonus of much lower prices for gas and lodging than you’d expect to pay on the coasts), this down-to-earth territory holds all the makings of a memorable road trip.

Editor's note: Please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government advice.

St. Louis – Missouri

With affordable attractions, tasty food and river city culture, St. Louis makes a great starting point to kick off a Midwestern road trip. At 630ft, the iconic Gateway Arch is required viewing, and America’s tallest man-made monument. The CityArchRiver project recently revamped the land that surrounds the landmark, updating facilities and adding green space and bike trails.

Take the tram ride to the top for the best bird’s eye view in town, or catch a ride to cruise the mighty Mississippi on a paddlewheel-powered riverboat (snagging an America the Beautiful Pass will save you a few bucks on ticket prices). During baseball season, Busch Stadium and Ballpark Village come alive with avid Cardinals fans rooting for the home team. Even if you’re not attending the game, the sports energy in town is contagious.

Site of the 1904 World’s Fair, 1300-acre Forest Park is a one-stop cultural cache that includes museums, a zoo, a science center, a greenhouse, lakes and pedestrian paths — all free to access. There’s no charge to tour the historic Anheuser-Busch Brewery grounds and admire the Budweiser Clydesdales either. After exploring, sample some classic fried ravioli at any of the old-school Italian restaurants on the Hill and order up some ice cream or frozen custard at Ted Drewe’s .

51 affordable discoveries across America 2020

Route 66 Heritage Project – Illinois

Get your kicks! Gearing up to celebrate its centennial in 2026, America’s Mother Road accounts for 300 miles of scenic byway on its Central Illinois leg between St. Louis and Chicago, (running 2,400 all told out to California). Meet up with Route 66 by crossing the Mississippi River at the Chain of Rocks Bridge and make a day of it heading northeast to take in the scenery through Litchfield, Springfield, Bloomington/Normal and Pontiac.

Commemorate the journey by snapping selfies against Americana-rich backdrops like the 30ft Gemini Giant at Wilmington’s Launching Pad drive-in  (temporarily closed), Paul Bunyon holding a hot dog in Atlanta and the Joliet Correctional Center where Jake and Elwood served time in the Blues Brothers. Hole up in a mom-and-pop motel if you need a break from the long day of driving, and keep your own motor running with a pit stop to refuel at Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook.

Chicago – Illinois

Route 66 ultimately deposits travelers in Chicago at the end of the road. A two-time World’s Fair host, the Windy City delivers a winning combination of history, sports, food and culture, inviting visitors to stick around and explore for as long as they like.

Take your pick of Museum Campus attractions like the Shedd Aquarium , the  Adler Planetarium  (temporairly closed to public) and the Field Museum , then venture north up Michigan Avenue to the renowned Art Institute of Chicago . Hot tip: a CityPASS packages these and a couple other top attractions to save visitors 50% on premium admission prices across the board.

After strolling through Millennium Park and taking a few photos at the Bean, take a spin on the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier and window-shop your way up the Magnificent Mile . Chicago boasts a strong theater community with performing arts showcases, concerts and events happening every night of the week, often with last-minute or day-of ticket discounts available.

You definitely won’t lack for great eats, whether you opt to indulge in affordable local favorites like deep-dish pizza , Chicago-style hot dogs and global cuisine galore, or splurge on a high-end meal at one of the city’s finest dining establishments.

Check out our Spotify Chicago playlist

Milwaukee – Wisconsin

From Chicago, it’s just a quick 90-minute journey north up I-94/I-41 to Milwaukee , a town that manages to stay humble while still impressing visitors with its style and substance. The Harley-Davidson Museum is a pilgrimage destination for legions of brand-loyal customers.

After a visit, learn all about the city’s beer heritage with a tour of Miller Brewery or Sprecher Brewery. You’ll need something to eat, and wholesome dairy is what’s on the menu (this is Wisconsin, after all), namely in the form of cheese curds, butter burgers and frozen custard. Milwaukee’s Public Market in the Third Ward offers a one-stop opportunity to sample it all under one roof.

When the weather’s nice, the river and lakefront encourage locals and visitors to get outside and enjoy some water recreation. Meanwhile, the Milwaukee Art Museum (the Santiago Calatrava-designed “wings” that fan open and shut twice a day are a free show in and of themselves), a reputable repertory theater and a rocking roster of summer festivals keep Milwaukee solidly rooted in the arts. At the end of the day, the historic (and haunted?) Pfister Hotel proposes stylish confines in which to rest your weary head.

Green Bay – Wisconsin

Keep on trucking up I-43 for about two hours and join “the Pack” in Green Bay, Wisconsin’s oldest settled community where pro football reigns supreme. Don some green and yellow and visit  Lambeau Field ; the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame , tours of the stadium and the Titletown entertainment district next door are available all year long.

Sports aren’t the only attraction here, though — breathtaking hiking territory abounds with landscapes that show off dolomite cliffs, waterfalls and beachfronts. Made from hearty stock, Green Bay residents don’t shy away from the long cold winters, opting instead to make the most of the season with ice skating, tubing, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

You can always thaw out in front of any of the local restaurants, cafes and brewpubs that feature cozy fireplaces. Or, belly up to a local bar for a good old traditional Friday-night Wisconsin fish fry. 

Duluth – Minnesota

It’s a five-hour jaunt across S.R. 29 to Chippewa Falls and then up US 53 over the Minnesota state line into Duluth. Along the idyllic banks of Lake Superior, the great outdoors are alive and well here, especially during the fall when the Northwoods foliage bursts into spectacular shades of burnished orange, red and gold. Settled by the Sioux and Chippewa tribes, the city now serves as entrance to the North Shore Scenic Drive that runs 154 miles up to Grand Portage , just shy of the Canadian border.

The Aerial Lift Bridge is Duluth’s crown-jewel landmark, raising and lowering nearly two dozen times each day to accommodate the passage of ships and boats traveling into and out of the harbor. The Canal Park district appeals to visitors with charming local restaurants to frequent and the Lakewalk to wander.

Gooseberry Falls State Park – Minnesota

From Duluth, follow the North Shore Scenic Byway 40 miles northeast past glimpses of the lake, forests and rock formations to wind down the journey at Gooseberry Falls , one of Minnesota’s most stunning state parks.

Stretch your legs with a walk around the Falls View Loop to drink in the namesake Upper, Middle and Lower cascades. A slice of cherry crunch or French Silk at Betty’s Pies in nearby Two Harbors makes the perfect sweet finale.

You might also like: 

Midwest travel ideas: 8 under-the-radar destinations to visit in America’s Heartland How to road-trip Canada on a budget Audiobooks to narrate your US road trip

This article was originally published in January 2020 and updated in October 2020. 

Produced by Lonely Planet for GEICO. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

This article was first published January 2020 and updated March 2022

Explore related stories

Destination Practicalities

Apr 17, 2024 • 5 min read

Whether you're embarking on the road trip of a lifetime or navigating the glorious Pacific Northwest without a car, getting around Washington is a breeze.

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Mar 8, 2024 • 7 min read

Mar 4, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 23, 2024 • 6 min read

Feb 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 21, 2024 • 8 min read

Feb 16, 2024 • 6 min read

Jan 29, 2024 • 7 min read

The 26 Best Places to Travel Alone in the US!

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: February 3, 2024

Categories North America , Solo Female Travel

Are you a diehard solo traveler who is desperately searching for some of the best places to travel alone in the US? If you are then you’ve come to the right place because trust me, there really ain’t no party like a USA solo travel party (YEE-HAW)!

Besides solo travel is just, in general, the total shiz! Esepcially since, well, who really has time to sit around, waiting for other prople, just to book an epic USA vacay?

I know I don’t! I mean, if I sat around, waiting for other people to travel, then I think THE most exicitng place that I’d ever go would be the grocery store. WOMP, WOMP, WOMP.

Which is why I created this SUPER handy list of all the best places to travel alone in the US, this way you can quickly and easily get your solo travel swerve on, and while waiting for…exactly NO ONE. Wait! Time out! Scratch that! Because in all honesty,  I actually wrote a WHOLE LOT of NOTHING.

Yeah. See, instead of writing this post myself, I actually found some of the raddest and baddest solo travelers out there to help me create this list of awesome American cities for solo travelers.

So take a gander, get MAD innspired, and see if you favorite metropolis made the cut, or is just another, anonymous addition to the chorus of the song, “another one bites the dust.”. Either way stick around and find out exactly where your solo travels should take you next, as you explore the grand old, U S of A!

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. 

1. San Diego, California

By: Sane of Spend Life Traveling

One of the many things I love about San Diego is the intense devotion of locals to this city and the level of pride that they have in calling this place home.

And for good reason! Because between its perfect, year-round climate, the beautiful beaches, the gorgeous Balboa Park, and the many independent shops, restaurants, and cafés, San Diego really is a fabulous city!

I mean I myself have taken many solo trips to San Diego and cannot recommend it enough as one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

And added bonus? Many tourists seem to skip over this city when visiting California, making this place a whole lot less touristy than many other nearby, urban centers.

But If you’re unsure of what to do during your solo trip here, then why not start with one of the best  things to do in San Diego  and explore some of the city’s many amazing beaches? Two of my personal favorites are Ocean Beach and the Mission Beach boardwalk.

However La Jolla is great too. And if you do end up here, be sure to visit the seals at La Jolla Cove (if you’re feeling extra brave, you can even swim with them too!)

Now, if you have time you cannot leave San Diego without visiting Coronado Island for the day. You’ll also want to explore the enchanting Balboa Park (take your time since this greenspace is massive!) and spend at least one evening in Little Italy and the Gaslamp Quarter.

But if all this solo travel leaves you feeling a bit lonely, then you can always check out Meetup.com  and meet like-minded, solo travelers while at a rejuvenating yoga sesh by the beach or while enjoying a fun, craft beer tasting. Because the array of different activities that this website offers really are endless.

2. Honolulu, Hawaii

By: Noel of Travel Photo Discovery

Of all the fun places that solo female travelers can visit in the US, Honolulu, in Oahu, is definitely one of the best.

Just a short, five-hour flight from the west coast of the USA, Honolulu is a vivacious hub of international travel and is a fantastic home base from which you can explore Hawaii’s many neighboring islands.

However the city is itself is also a fun and easy place for solo travelers to explore since it is home to iconic, tourist attractions like Waikiki Beach and Diamond Head State Park.

But if you’re looking to do something a bit more cultural, then you can always visit one of the area’s many historical attractions like Iolani Palace (the only royal palace in the United States), city hall, Chinatown, Aloha Tower, Pearl Harbor, and Ala Moana (the largest outdoor shopping mall in the Pacific). 

Additionally, Honolulu is a paradise for adventure lovers and has many different activities that solo travelers can enjoy, like water sports, hiking, biking, sailing, and climbing; all of which can be done as part of a group tour group or on your very own, DIY excursion.

However if food is more your thing, then you’ll love Honolulu’s food scene, which is a beautiful mixture of traditional, Hawaiian dishes with other, distinct, Asian cuisines, creating a cross-cultural feast of flavors that can be found throughout the city’s many different street food vendors, food courts, and fine dining venues.

So if you’re ready to visit Honolulu for yourself, then check out this post about some of the  top things you can do in Honolulu , and get some additional inspiration about what to see and do while on the island of Oahu.

3. New York City, New York

By: Claudia of My Adventures Across The World

New York is hands down, one of the best cities to travel alone in the US! I mean, after all, it was the immortal backdrop for the iconic show, Sex and the City! Which makes sense since this is the kind of place where a solo traveler never really feels alone.

No, really! There are just so many things to do, places to visit, shows to see, and events to attend that you never really have time to feel lonely.

Plus there are tons of classic things to do in New York , like see the Statue of Liberty, go on the Staten Island ferry, visit the Empire State Building (from where you can get breathtaking views of Manhattan), explore Central Park, stop by the MET (the Metropolitan Museum of Art), check out the Guggenheim, visit MOMA (Museum of Modern Art), and pay your respect at the National 9/11 Memorial and World Trade Center.

While you’re here I also recommend walking across the Brooklyn Bridge and exploring Brooklyn Heights, one of the nicest neighborhoods in Brooklyn. Once here you’ll enjoy stunning, panoramic views of both Manhattan and the Williamsburg Bridge, another iconic bridge that connects downtown Manhattan with Brooklyn.

However if you’re looking for an excellent place to eat, then you can’t beat Olio e Piu, which is a nice Italian eatery in The Village. Zibetto Espresso Bar is also a fantastic place for an awesome cup of coffee in Midtown Manhattan.

And while New York does have some excellent accommodations, they can be quite costly. Therefore you may want to opt for an Airbnb instead of a regular hotel, especially since the experience will feel a bit more personable.

Plus if you can find a centrally located Airbnb in the East Village, then you’ll still have easy access to some of the best attractions, restaurants, and nightlife spots in the entire city.

4. Asheville, North Carolina

By: Meghan of Meghan the Traveling Teacher

Asheville is such a fun city to visit alone! Not only will you find plenty of likeminded people here, but you’ll also discover that a visit to this charming little mountain town can be super affordable too!

Additionally Asheville is located less than an hour from the Smoky Mountains, making it easy for visitors to go on incredible hikes and explore some of the region’s most spectacular waterfalls.

Personally though my favorite area is the Pisgah National Forest since you can go down a natural rock slide waterfall in the summer and marvel at the beautiful fall foliage here in the Autumn.

Because while you’re in Asheville, the mountains really are all around you in, which is why many locals, and travelers alike, will join hiking groups (you can find them on Facebook or MeetUp) and explore the plethora of different hiking trails around the city.

But, after all that hiking, you’ll probably be a little hungry! Which is perfect since Asheville has an amazing food and drink scene, with local favorites including restaurants like Tupelo Honey (Southern food), Corner Kitchen (American cuisine), and Curate (Spanish food).

So feel free to relax and go on an awesome brewery tour. Or, learn more about the city’s fascinating history at places like the Biltmore Estate and Omni Grove Park Hotel.  Because trust me! There really are a ton of fun and cheap things to do around Asheville, North Carolina.

5. Memphis, Tennessee

By: Clare of I live 4 Travel

Memphis is a city that is known for its music, making it the perfect place to experience some authentic Blue’s and Rock-n-Roll.

Which is why the one thing that you absolutely HAVE to do while in Memphis is visit Graceland , the former home of Elvis Presley.

During your visit not only will you get to see exactly what the mansion looked like on the day of Elvis’ death, but you’ll also get to view some of his lavish outfits and pay your respects at his gravesite.

While in the city you can also stop by the legendary Sun Studio , the birthplace of Rock-n-Roll, and hear the unique stories behind rock-n-roll legends like Turner, Elvis, Johnny Cash, and Roy Orbison, all of whom recorded albums here.

However if history and museums are more your thing, then you cannot leave Memphis without an eye-opening visit to the National Civil Rights Museum , a unique attraction that was built around the Lorraine Motel, the exact place where Martin Luther King was assassinated.

But Memphis is not just famous for its music. It’s also known for its unique style of barbecue, which can be enjoyed at Central BBQ , in downtown Memphis. And once you’ve had your fill of amazing BBQ take a nice, leisurely stroll down Beale Street and listen to some live music at one of the area’s many fantastic bars.

Yes Memphis really is the perfect city for solo female travelers since it’s safe, easy to get around, and home to a ton of different attractions that every type of solo traveler will love.

6. Madison, Wisconsin

By: Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Madison,  Wisconsin  is often overlooked by travelers who are searching for some of the top destinations in the United States. However the capital of Wisconsin is a great place to visit, especially if you’re traveling solo!

“Why?” you may rightly wonder. Well, this city has so many amazing activities for you to enjoy alone, like visiting the  Madison Historical Society , exploring the  Wisconsin State Capitol , or enjoying a scenic walk along Lake Mendota.

But if you don’t want to spend your entire time in Madison alone, then you can always visit one of the city’s many bars and restaurants, like  Madison Eleven Park , since this is an easy place to meet people, thanks in large part to nearby, Madison University.

And if you’re not sure where to stay while in Madison then you’ll be delighted to know that this amazing city has several different hostels, like the  HI Madison Hostel , that offer a wide array of activities for solo travelers to enjoy. 

7. San Francisco, California

By: Marina of Travel Eat Blog

San Francisco is one of my favorite places to travel solo since it’s a safe, vibrant city, that is also home to an amazing public transportation system.

I also love how unique every neighborhood in San Francisco is.

I mean it’s like each neighborhood has it’s very own, unique history; a history that you can personally experience while you’re there. That’s why, I would definitely recommend visiting one of the  most beautiful districts in San Francisco , the Marina/ Cow Hollow District.

While you’re here you’ll find a ton of different local shops, street bars, restaurants, and beaches, as well as some beyond exquisite views of the Golden Gate Bridge. 

The Palace of Fine Arts  is also in this area and a total must since you can pack yourself a little picnic lunch and enjoy it out in front of the pond here. You can also stroll through the park and enjoy mesmerizing views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Similarly Chinatown is another must-see neighborhood, in downtown, San Francisco, that is filled with unique decorations,  colorful shops, historic street lights, vibrant hanging lanterns, and charming pagodas.

This area is also home to Chong Qing Xiao Mian, an amazing little Chinese restaurant that serves some of the best Sichuan noodles (beef noodles with pickled mustard) in the entire city. And for a fantastic, reasonably priced place to stay try some of the hotels near Union Square since they are centrally located and within close proximity of some fantastic entertainment, food, and shopping options.

8. Phoenix, Arizona

By: Nicole of American SW Obsessed

Best visited between October and March when the weather isn’t too hot, Phoenix is without a doubt one of the most underrated cities in the USA.

I mean not only is there a lot to do there, but it also makes a great home base from which you can explore the area’s many National Parks and Monuments.

Personally though my favorite part of Phoenix is Scottsdale since it is a real foodie’s paradise that has over 800 restaurants and cafes to choose from. And while a variety of different cuisines are represented here, I recommend sampling Scottsdale’s authentic Southwestern cuisine since it is a beautiful cross between Spanish, Mexican and Tex-Mex flavors.

However to really enjoy dishes from as many restaurants as possible, I recommend joining one of the many amazing food tours that are offered by Arizona Food Tours .

While you’re here I would also recommend going on a hike along the Treasure Loop Trail since it a beginner’s trail that will take you through the Superstition Mountains (to the east of Phoenix) and provide you with breath-taking views of the surrounding area (When hiking in Phoenix, always start early in the morning and carry plenty of water).

9. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

By: Derek and Mike of Robe Trotting

Philadelphia is a fantastic city for any type of traveler, but especially for solo female travelers since it is well-lit, safe, easy to get around, and has a ton of fun things to do , many of which are best enjoyed alone.

Philly is also known for its wealth of world-renowned art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art , The Barnes Foundation , and The Rodin Museum .

However if science is more your thing, then you’ll love Philly’s Franklin Institute , as well as The Mutter Museum of Medical Oddities. Additionally, Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens are another hidden gem that is well worth visiting since this fantastical place includes an exhibition of tile-mosaics that are spread throughout multiple city lots.

Now because Philadelphia is home to more street art murals than almost any other city in the United States, it is also a fantastic city to explore on foot.

And along the way you can also discover Philly’s Old City, and learn more about this city’s prominent. place in American history, with a visit to Independence Hall , The Liberty Bell , and The Constitution Center.

And for all the food lovers out there, no trip to Philly would be complete without sampling local favorites like a cheesesteak and a Philly soft pretzel. Plus most Philadelphia restaurants actually offer food service at the bar, which is the perfect place to dine when eating alone.

10. Disney World, Florida

By: Kris of Nomad By Trade

My first ever solo trip was to Disney World and I truly believe that it is the perfect place to start your very own, solo travel adventure.

I mean if you’re staying in Disney itself then all of your transportation (including from the airport to your hotel and from your hotel to the parks) is included with the cost of your stay.

Therefore you really don’t have to worry about the logistics of getting around by yourself or being alone at night. And with four theme parks, two water parks, and a shopping/dining district to enjoy, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your stay.

Plus not only do you get to plan your days exactly as you want them, visiting all of the top attractions that matter to you the most, but dining reservations and FastPasses are also much easier to come by when you’re traveling alone.

There are also official, Photopass photographers, stationed at all of the best Disney photo spots, who will help you take pictures, even if you don’t purchase photos directly from Disney so that you can come home with something other than a selfie.

Additionally several popular attractions now have designated, single rider lines that you can use to help reduce wait times, which is just one of the many reasons why I love visiting Disney World solo .

11. Santa Fe, New Mexico

By: Stella of Around the World in 24 Hours

Santa Fe, New Mexico is one of the most pleasant and charming cities for a solo female traveler in the United States. First of all, it’s not a huge city. In fact, it’s not even the largest city in New Mexico, making it a relatively easy place for solo travelers to navigate.

Now because Santa Fe is the state capital, and one of the most historic cities in New Mexico, it has a wealth of cultural attractions and delicious restaurants that guests can enjoy.

That’s why the first stop for any solo female traveler in Santa Fe should be the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum , an institution that is dedicated to preserving the legacy of the most famous American, female artist of all time.

However if you’re more interested in history, then you can always visit the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian , to learn more about New Mexico’s very first settlers, and the Palace of the Governors, to better understand the men and women who helped shape New Mexico’s past.

But, if you’re looking for a bit of relaxation then be sure to make an appointment at Santa Fe’s legendary Ten Thousand Waves Spa, where you can splurge on an all-day package, or save some money on one of their more affordable, female-only baths.

Also don’t miss the out on Santa Fe’s extraordinary restaurant scene, where you can go casual at Cafe Pasqual’s or enjoy something a bit more upscale at Restaurant Martin .

Either way Do NOT leave without trying the area’s famous, New Mexican green chiles! Because yes, they really are THAT GOOD!

12. Boise, Idaho

By: Kay of The Awkward Traveller

Like most of Idaho, Boise is a criminally underrated hidden gem in the United States. However that’s also part of the reason why this city is such a fantastic destination for solo female travelers.

I mean… Pull up those Tinder profiles ladies! HEYYYOOO.

But, aside from the top tier dating potential, this vibrant, college town hosts an array of fun pop up events that solo travelers will LOVE, like indie film showings, poetry slams, and trivia nights every day of the week.

Boise is also a microbrewery mecca of sorts, with some of my personal favorites including Sockeye Brewing and Boise Brewing.

Speaking of booze and food, Boise does a magnificent job of bringing the earthy goodness of Idaho’s treasure – the potato – to life in new and exciting ways.

So be sure to stop by Boise Fry Co, and sample some of the more than 20 sauces that accompany their endless array of potato types and fry cuts. Also and I hate to say it, but you really haven’t lived until you’ve eaten Idaho’s famous Butter Cake. So, definitely pick up a slice after a fantastic lunch (or dinner) at Fork !

And while Idaho has no National Parks to speak of, the natural areas that surround Boise are truly exquisite and full of enchanting waterfalls that are waiting to be discovered in places like Shoshone Falls and Craters of the Moon National Monument .

But if culture and learning is more your jam, then definitely check out one of the nation’s top nuclear labs at Atomic City. Or you could always decolonize your understanding of American history and take a trip to the Sacagawea Cultural Center, where you can learn all about the TRUE story behind the Lewis & Clark expedition.

13. Denver, Colorado

By: Meg of Fox in the Forest

When choosing some of the best places to travel alone in the US, Denver just HAS to be on your list!

I mean one of the BEST things about Denver, Colorado, is the fact that most of the residents here are actually from somewhere else. Yup! It’s an incredibly dynamic city full of transplants, that is home to a variety of different people from all across the USA.

And while the people of Denver are amazing, there are also a ton of fun things to do in Denver, like visit a top-notch brewery, catch a concert at the famous Red Rocks Amphitheater, head to a museum, enjoy a picnic lunch at one of Denver’s many parks, or go on one of the many amazing  hikes near Denver.

If you can though be sure to rent a car (at least for a day) so that you can enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery or  Rocky Mountain National Park  or visit one of the many relaxing hot springs just outside of Denver.

Now although there a ton of different boutique hotels in Denver, one of the best places to stay for any solo female traveler is going to be an Airbnb.

And the Highlands, RiNo, and Capitol Hill are all perfect neighborhoods to stay in since there are plenty of small businesses, boutique shops, and restaurants here for visitors to explore.

14. Atlanta, Georgia

By: Allie of WOC Travel

Atlanta is a great destination for solo female travelers since there are a multitude of things to do here, that will satisfy people with a variety of different interests.

I mean from history to art to cultural activities to food, you will not run out of things to do here. And one of your very first stops here should be the Atlanta Botanical Gardens . 

Because one of the park’s most awe-inspiring, feature displays is that of the Earth Goddess, a 25-foot tall, living sculpture that consists of more than 18,000 annual plants that are used to create the structure’s beautiful face and hair.

Now, in addition to the botanical gardens, intrepid solo travelers can also enjoy the city’s famed World of Coke, Zoo Atlanta, Centennial Park, and the Aquarium, as well as a ton of different festivals that occur each weekend.

And if you’re trying to decide where to stay in Atlanta then I would definitely recommend the Midtown area since it’s in close proximity to multiple forms of public transportation.

There are also many fantastic restaurants, like South City Kitchen for brunch and Surin of Thailand for late-night dinner,  in this amazing neighborhood, as well as top attractions, like Piedmont Park (AKA the City of Atlanta’s premier green space).

15. Boston, Massachusetts

By: Retha of The Roaming Nanny

Boston is a great city for solo female travelers. Not only are there plenty of things to do here, year-round, but this city is also home to a fantastic, easy-to-use, network of public transportation.

That’s why I highly recommend a Boston itinerary of at least 3 days, if not more, since this will give you plenty of time to visit many of the city’s top attractions.

Because as someone who grew up nearby, I always tell visitors that they NEED to do two things while in Boston: Explore Boston Common and Public Gardens and Watch a baseball game at Fenway Park (or at least take a tour).

Trust me on this, the Common always has something going on, especially when the weather is nice and the flowers in the Public Gardens are in full bloom, There are also plenty of fun statues to discover, as well as a slew of Swan Boats that you MUST take a spin on.

And while I’m a HUGE baseball fan myself even if you’re not into the sport, you should still definitely watch the Red Sox play at Fenway Park (one of the oldest ballparks in the country) since it is always one hell of an experience.

So yeah just grab a hotdog, a beer, and some cheap tickets (they usually start at around $25-$35 apiece), so that you too can enjoy Boston’s immortal, boys of summer.

Now when searching for a place to stay in Boston, look no further than  HI Boston , which sits right near Boston Common, I promise this is an absolutely ideal location to stay in as it’s right near the Redline (which can get you anywhere in the city that you need to go) and is within walking distance of both Chinatown and the Theatre District.

This fantastic hostel also offers guests both private and shared rooms, as well as a complimentary breakfast every morning. 

16. Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

By: Heather of RaulersonGirlsTravel

You wouldn’t immediately think of Myrtle Beach as a fantastic, solo female travel destination, but you should! Because not only is Myrtle Beach small enough for you to explore comfortably on your own, but there are also a ton of different things do there; so much so that you won’t have any idea what to do first.

So, to start, you can always do the obvious, and rent a lounge chair on the beach, while periodically dipping your toes in the water.

However, if all that relaxation gets a bit dull, you can always take a nice stroll along the beach, enjoy the 1.2-mile-long boardwalk here (with several piers that extend out into the ocean), and even stop at the legendary Bowery for some live music.

Plus, if you get hungry along the way you can always enjoy one of the numerous, beachside eateries here, which include Rip Tydz (known for their seafood) and Duffy’s (known for their incredibly sassy waitstaff).

But if you want an even bigger selection of restaurants to choose from, then just stop by Broadway at the Beach, which is also home to a local movie theater, an aquarium, speed boat rides, and various forms of nightlife.

And if you’re feeling REALLY adventurous, you could always rent a car and take a short drive to Brookgreen Gardens or go a bit further afield and explore the beautiful city of Charleston (If you don’t want to drive, you could always take an UBER too).

Now during my trip to Myrtle Beach, I enjoyed a lovely stay at the Anderson Ocean Club and Spa , which sits right on the water. However there are plenty of hotels available here, with a variety of different price ranges, that are all within easy walking distance of the beach.

Which is just one of the many reasons why Myrtle Beach really does have everything you need for the perfect, weekend getaway as a solo female traveler.

17. Portland, Maine

By; Olivia of My Wandering Voyage

Portland, Maine, is an enchanting, east coast town that is filled with historic, red brick buildings and seafood restaurants as far as the eye can see.

Add in a BEYOND friendly atmosphere and you have the perfect destination for solo travelers. But what really makes Portland, Maine special is the fact that it has been named both the craft brew capital of the United States and the restaurant city of the year in 2018. 

Therefore expect more eateries here, per capita, than in any other city in the US, except for San Francisco of course! And some of the most amazing, foodie hot spots that you’ll just HAVE  to try while you’re in town include  Bite into Maine ,  The Highroller Lobster Co ., Portland Lobster Co.,  J’s Oysters , and Eventide Oyster Co. for delicious seafood and incredible fresh lobster. 

Next wash all that delicious food down with some great cocktails at  Vena’s Fizz House , mead from Maine Mead Works, delicious gin from  Hardshore Distilling Company , or a pint from one of the town’s many craft breweries.

While in Portland you’ll also want to explore the cobblestone streets of the Old Port, do a bit of shopping on Exchange Street, enjoy the views from Munjoy Hill, or watch the boats go by at the Historic Waterfront. 

However the real highlight of any trip to Portland, Maine are the series of quaint lighthouses that surround the city, the most famous of which is the  Portland Head Lighthouse . See there really is so much to see and do, that you’ll definitely want to plan a fun  weekend in Portland ! 

18. Salt Lake City, Utah

By: Rachelle of Adventure is Never Far Away

Salt Lake City, Utah, is the PERFECT destination for solo female travelers in the USA!   Known as the biggest little town in the west, Salt Lake City has something to satisfy the wanderlust in every type of traveler.  

So If you’re an adrenaline junkie, why not take to the sky and go skydiving or paragliding? Or If you’re a rock climber, why not explore one of the numerous slot canyons and sheer faces that surround the city?

And if you visit during winter, well, then be sure to take advantage of the best snow on earth and test your skills at one of Salt Lake City’s world-class ski resorts.

Because with a wealth of restaurants, interactive museums, sporting events, and festivals for solo travelers to experience, the variety of different activities here will always keep you coming back for more.

Plus not only is Salt Lake City easy to navigate, but it’s also one of the safest capital cities in the entire United States.  

So much so that residents always welcome visitors and even look out for solo travelers, guaranteeing that anyone who visits will have an amazing time. Salt Lake City also has the added benefit of having hotels outposts for most major chains and being home to a diverse array of AirBnB options.  

That’s why for a more socially engaging travel experience, be sure to stay at the new SLC Hostel, which is located just a mile from downtown, right across the street from the city’s light rail system; making this hostel the perfect jumping-off location for exploration further afield.

19. Las Vegas, Nevada

By: Jordan of The Solo Life

A surprisingly fun city to visit as a solo traveler is Las Vegas, Nevada. And although unexpected there are a number of exciting things to do for anyone who wants to solo travel Las Vegas.

Now of course there’s gambling in Vegas, as well as shopping, seeing a show, or simply people-watching along The Strip; all of which can be enjoyed as a solo traveler.   And because there are so many people around, and so much security at all of the city’s major hotels and casinos, Las Vegas never really feels unsafe, which is something that is important to any solo traveler.

Another great thing about Las Vegas is that it’s pretty reasonably priced, at least if you’re not a gambler.  

Additionally there are a ton of different day trips that you can take from the city, to places like the Hoover Dam and even the Grand Canyon .

However for a fun and totally unique solo activity, try booking a tour at the  Neon Museum , a place that collects and restores neon signs, in order to tell the story of Las Vegas’ dynamic past.  

Once inside visitors can see a multitude of historic signs, and all while learning more about them from a dedicated guide.   So whether you’re a gambler, a fan of live shows, or an avid, outdoor enthusiast, Las Vegas really does have something to offer every type of solo traveler. 

20. Cincinnati, Ohio

By: Sage of Everyday Wanderer

Easy to navigate and with plenty to see and do, Cincinnati is an amazing Midwest destination for solo travelers.

I mean, I explored the city solo from before dawn until well after dusk and always felt safe, which is why I think that Queen City is one of the best places to travel alone in the US.

Founded in the mid-1800s by immigrants from Prussia, Bavaria, and Saxony, Cincinnati’s so-called, “Over the Rhine” neighborhood has a great, central location and is full of one-of-a-kind boutiques, delicious restaurants, and local breweries that are al just waiting to be explored.

And if you enjoy learning about the past then discover the dark and sobering history of slavery in America at the National Underground Railroad Freedom Cente r.  

Next lighten things up a bit at the American Sign Museum , which is home to the largest collection of vintage, 1900s era signs in the United States, including a two-ton McDonald’s sign and a fiberglass Big Boy.

From here take a stroll along the Ohio River, at Smale Riverfront Park, admire some the city’s 140 street art murals, and walk across the John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, a structure that connects Ohio with Kentucky and that offers visitors unparalleled views of the entire city.  

But no trip to Cincinnati would be complete without enjoying a nice, big, bowl of Skyline Chili , nestled atop a bed of spaghetti, and a scoop of black raspberry chocolate chip ice cream from Graeter’s . Conversely, you could also kick start your day with breakfast at Maplewood Kitchen and Bar , where the menu highlights locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients.  

Afterwards check out the gourmet hot dogs at The Senate, which should be closely followed by a visit to Bakersfield , where you can enjoy some of the city’s best street tacos and drinks (preferably ones with tequila or whiskey).  

21. Charleston, South Carolina

By: Michelle of The Wandering Queen

Charleston, South Carolina is without a doubt, one of the best cities in the USA for solo travelers.   Not only is this town an incredibly, Instagrammable place, filled with historic, pastel-colored homes, but it’s also known for its wealth of delicious seafood and is famed for its one of a kind, southern hospitality.

However Charleston is also home to some wonderfully, delectable cuisine.  

So much so that it can be extremely difficult to get reservations at some of the city’s top eateries, like Edmunds, Oast,  Prohibition, Magnolias, and Husk.

And when it comes to deciding where to stay in Charleston, I highly recommend the downtown area since it is a pedestrian-friendly, centrally located neighborhood, that is within easy walking distance of iconic places like Waterfront Park, Marion Square Farmers Market, King Street shopping center, Historic Charleston City Market, Battery Park, Rainbow Row, and White Point Gardens.  

Before you leave though Do NOT forget to take some Instagram shots at Rainbow Row and the Pineapple fountain since both places are incredibly photogenic. But regardless of what fun things you do in Charleston , you’ll definitely fall heard over heels in love with this charming, pastel-hued city.

22. Miami, Florida

By: Inna of Executive Thrillseekers

As a solo traveler you’ll first need to decide what part of Miami you’d like to stay in, either Miami or Miami Beach, since these are two completely different areas.

See Miami is a fairly typical city, filled with residential buildings, business centers, skyscrapers, hubs of public transportation, two airports (Miami International & Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport), restaurants, clothing stores, parks and basically anything else you can think of.

In contrast Miami Beach is located on an island and feels like an entirely different city with its own, unique vibe. So, you may want to visit as part of your New York to Miami road trip .

That’s why this place feels more like a cozy little resort town, with a variety of different low-rise buildings, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs for you to check out. There are also groves of beautiful palm trees here that sit nestled along the magnificent, 10-Mile beach.  

Therefore if you can, do try and make the most of your time here by staying at a hotel right on Miami Beach, with 24-hour concierge service, just so that you can feel a little safer. Now there are are also plenty of amazing places to visit in Miami , like:

• Bayside Mall – A beautiful, cozy street along the bay that is home to a ton of different shops and restaurants.
• Bayfront Park – A stunning park on Biscayne Bay that hosts a variety of different local events and shows.
• Miami Zoo – Occupying more than 750 acres, this is considered one of the best zoos in the country and is home to more than 500 different species of animals.
• Wynwood – An artsy neighborhood filled with street art murals, theaters, art studios, museums, and designer clothing stores. 

And while 90% of travelers visit Miami to relax on the beach, and enjoy some of the island’s many famed nightclubs, as a solo traveler,   do be careful and take the same precautions that you would in any major city.

23. New Orleans, Louisiana

By: Wendy of The Nomadic Vegan

New Orleans is typically viewed as a party town, a place where you can go with a group of friends and have a wild time.  

But can you actually enjoy the Big Easy as a solo traveler?   Yes, absolutely!   Because honestly, one of the most amazing things about New Orleans is the iconic, Southern hospitality that you’ll experience from locals.  

I mean it’s totally normal for random strangers to strike up a conversation with you. That’s why it’s incredibly easy for solo travelers to make new friends here.   Plus New Orleans locals will be quick to lend a hand if you look like you’re lost or are in need of some help.

Another great way for you to meet people is through a walking tour, during which you can admire the beautiful architecture of exquisite neighborhoods like the French Quarter, the Garden District, and Faubourg Marigny.  

Other interesting tour options through the city include cemetery tours and plantation tours.   But if you opt for the latter, be sure to choose one that goes to Whitney Plantation, which has been converted into a very insightful museum about slavery.

And if official tours aren’t really your thing then you can always just wander around the city and enjoy the live music scene here, since you’ll find lots of musicians performing along the streets of the French Quarter.

That being said Frenchmen Street is typically where most locals go to enjoy some live music, and you might want to do the same.

Additionally there are also some amazing restaurants in New Orleans  that serve up traditional, Cajun-style dishes, some of which are available in gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan variations.

And if you’re going to drink while in New Orleans, please do so responsibly and limit yourself to a couple of cocktails.  But if you’re not comfortable drinking alone, then you can always join one of the many pub crawls or cocktails tours through the city .  

24. Washington D.C.

By: Richa of My Ticklefeet

The capital city of the US will take you beyond politics and into a world full of history, fun, and adventure.  

Now, in my opinion, the best time to visit is during the Spring, when you can see all of the beautiful Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC .

Washington D.C. really is amazing at any time of the year since there are a ton of different attractions here that you can happily enjoy alone. From dozens of free Smithsonian museums to National monuments to tours of government buildings, like Capitol Hill, the White House, the Library of Congress, etc., this magical city really does have it all.

And If you’re visiting during the Spring or Summer seasons, then don’t forget to check out some of the free summer festivals that take place, almost every weekend, throughout the city.   Plus many of the embassies in the city will actually open their doors to the public and host various, cultural events during the month of May.

But given the number of tourists and amount of traffic in the city, I’d recommend using either public transport or shared car services to navigate the city (Also, don’t forget to pack a pair of extra comfortable sneakers since you’ll be doing a lot of walking).

I’d also recommend staying in either the downtown area near China town or near the National Mall since both of these areas are extremely close to many of D.C.’s top attractions.

25. Savannah, Georgia

By: Marta and Milosz of Backpackers.WRO

Located in the Southeastern part of the United States, Savannah is the oldest city in the state of Georgia and is a perfect destination for anyone who loves history or who wants to explore famous locations from their favorite books and movies.

However no trip to Savannah would complete without a visit to the city’s historic center, a charming, incredibly safe place that is easy for solo travelers to explore.

You could happily spend hours here, walking amongst the historic buildings and the enormous oak trees, with their characteristic Spanish moss.

While you’re here you can also visit a wealth of different filming locations and sit on Forest Gump’s bench in Chippewa Square, visit the house from Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil , or explore the wedding chapel, on Tybee Island, from The Last Song .

Also don’t forget to sample some local delicacies from the famous confectionery – Byrd Cookie Company.   Trust me, the selection of goodies here is huge, with the Scottish Oatmeals being my personal favorite.  

You also can’t miss River Street Sweet, which is home to the most famous candy store in all of Savannah (No matter what, get the beyond delicious pralines).

And if you can, do try and visit River Street in the evening, when you can listen to live music, get a hot dog from a food truck, and grab a local souvenir.

26. Blue Ridge, Georgia

By: Bret of Blue Ridge Mountains Travel Guide

Located in northern Georgia, at the southern end of the Blue Ridge Mountains , is the tiny town of Blue Ridge.

Encompassing a mere 2.4 square miles of land, and with a population of less than 1500 people, this quaint village sits adjacent to the Tennessee River watershed in the north and the Alabama River watershed in the south.

Blue Ridge is also surrounded by the mountains of the Chattahoochee National Forest, and offers visitors endless opportunities for outdoor recreation.  

Which is precisely what makes this friendly, welcoming town such a great place for solo travelers.  

Love hiking?   Then explore the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail and check out some of the gorgeous waterfalls that can be found in the Vogel and Amicalola Falls State Parks.  

Enjoy being near the water?   Then stop by Lake Blue Ridge and do some fishing, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding, or boating. You could also try tubing or fly fishing, for freshwater trout, along the Ellijay and Toccoa Rivers.

Additionally there are plenty of cozy mountain cabins that are available for rent, as well as some amazing hotels that you can stay in, like the Douglas Inn and the historic Blue Ridge Inn B&B.   This quaint little town also has some fantastic restaurants for you to enjoy, like Mike’s Trackside BBQ, Harvest on Main, and the aptly-named Southern Charm.  

Whatever you do though be sure to take a ride on the famous, 125- year-old, Blue Ridge Scenic Railway. It takes visitors on a picturesque, 13-mile journey along the beautiful Toccoa River, to the twin border towns of McCaysville, Georgia and Copperhill, Tennessee.

27. Hot Springs, Arkansas

Hot Springs, Arkansas is one of the best places to travel alone in the US. This spot is famous for its hot springs. Duh! No brainer right! I’m sure the name gave it away. Anyways, if you want some alone time where you can unwind and just connect with yourself, then this is the place to visit.

Just think about going to Bathhouse Row which has 8 bath houses. These date back to the early 19th and 20th century and make great places for a solo stop. Otherwise head to Garvan Woodland gardens for a nice leisurely stroll. The bonsai garden has a lot to see!

If that’s not something you want to do, swap Garvan Woodland gardens with Hot Springs National park. A great tip is to head to the visitor center at Fordyce Bathhouse. It offers free tours of the National park. Once you are done hiking along the trails, you head back to Bathhouse row for another soak!

28. Seattle, Washington

Seattle is one of the big cities that are perfect for anyone who is interested in traveling alone in the US. First off, it has all the amenities that every big city has. Think of museums, amazing food, good shopping, lots of great restaurants and more. One of the top things to do in Seattle is to head to the top of the Space Needle. This is where you will get a bird’s eye view of the Seattle skyline. 

Don’t forget to head to Pike Place Market. It is always bustling and it will definitely make you feel like one with the crowd. Here you can get a lot of great handmade souvenirs, amazing local food and more. While you are there, make sure not to forget the underground speciality shops!

Now if you want to get away from the city, then head to Olympic National Park where you can enjoy the calm forests and trails. Hiking is something that is popular in the region but make sure that you check the weather before you head out on the trails!

Best Places To Travel Alone In The US FAQ

How do you travel alone for the first time in the us.

Traveling alone in the US can be daunting when you are heading out for your first trip. The best thing to do is follow a few rules to ensure that you are safe. For one, make sure to arrive at your destination early. Try to not reach after dark. This will allow you to check in at your accommodation and to check out your neighborhood. Other tips are”

• Always let someone know where you will be.
• Always and I mean always have travel insurance .
• Carry your hotel’s address/business card.
• Never tell anyone where you are staying.

Can A Girl Travel Alone In The USA?

Yes by all means! I have traveled solo across the US so many times. It is safe as long as you are sensible about your interactions with others. 

At What Age Can You Travel Alone In The USA?

Generally airlines allow children above the age of 5 to travel alone. Children between the age of 5-11 will however have parental permission and you have to check with the airlines before traveling.

TADA ! OUR MISSION TO FIND THE 26 BEST PLACES TO TRAVEL ALONE IN THE US IS NOW COMPLETE!

I hope you found this list moderately inspiring because, gosh darn it, i know i did., sure, i’ve been to a couple of these cities, but most of them are still totally new to., so, if you need me, i’ll be living my best life on one of these  hella awesome, solo vacations, and if this list of epic, solo trips has left you longing for some usa solo travel, then pin this now and read it again later.

Fares Match

Thursday 3rd of March 2022

I read a lot of Blog Post on Solo Travel but this blog are really intresting and I never read blog topic like this. Your writing skill Awesome!

girlwiththepassport

Thanks so much for reading.

Friday 4th of February 2022

I liked the post, very interesting and well written, I really needed to know about Solo Travel in the USA, thanks for sharing :D!

Thanks for the comment and so glad you found the post useful. Thanks for reading.

Monday 8th of February 2021

This is such a great list! Philadelphia and Phoenix are personally high on my list of upcoming places to check out. I'll definitely save these suggestions for the future!

Tuesday 23rd of February 2021

Oh awesome! Thanks for reading Courtney and so glad you found this article helpful.

Saturday 4th of January 2020

This is such an awesome post! I'd always discounted traveling solo in the US - not from choice, but because I don't drive and thought that'd be a problem. I'm seeing now that I had a lot more options than I thought! Thank you! <3

Thanks for reading! Yeah, there are a TON of solo travel options for anyone in the United States. Just so much to do and so little time, per usual.

As a solo traveller, I’m definitely adding lots of these places to my list! Thanks for sharing!

Thanks for reading and so glad that you found this post useful.

Privacy Overview

• North Dakota
• South Dakota
• Exciting Cities
• Food And Drink
• Outdoor Adventures
• Where To Stay
• Skip to right header navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

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

20 Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

January 13, 2022 by //  by  Midwest Explored 6 Comments

If you’re looking for the best places to visit in the Midwest then you’ve come to the right place!

I was born and raised in the Midwest and it’s one of my favorite regions to explore.

No matter what you’re interested in, there is bound to be a perfect place to visit for your next Midwest vacation.

From beautiful state and national parks , vibrant cities, and unique museums, there is a place to visit in the Midwest for everyone.

Even though many people may associate the Midwest with cold weather, that’s not always the case.

Your next family vacation in the Midwest can be full of fun waterparks, fall foliage , or spring blooms.

But if you love wintry weather, you’ll certainly find it too.

With all of these amazing places to visit in the Midwest, I’m sure you’ll find yourself planning your very own Midwestern vacation.

Chicago Illinois Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

If there is one city you visit in the Midwest it should be Chicago.

The Midwest is full of amazing vibrant cities to explore. But Chicago is probably the most popular.

You can spend several days exploring Chicago and find plenty to do and see.

There are museums, the best restaurants , shops, and more to explore.

One of the most popular times to visit Chicago is during the magical Christmas season .

You’ll find the city all lit up, with ice skating rinks, massive Christmas decorations and illuminated trees.

Chicago is easily one of the best places to visit in the Midwest.

Stay Here: VRBO.com

Admire The Kansas Prairies

One of the most beautiful places in the United States is the endless fields of prairie land in Kansas.

Kansas is called the Sunflower State because of its acres and acres of sunflower fields.

But the state also has some beautiful prairies and other natural wonders.

Visiting the Kansas prairies is one of the most unique things to do in Kansas in the Midwest and Kansas.

If you want to see untouched prairies, head to the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.

The National Preserve consists of over 11,000 acres of beautiful grasses.

You can go hiking, admire the scenery, or even look for wild bison.

There are many things to do in Overland Park to help you enjoy your Midwest visit to Kansas.

Explore Lincoln, The Capital City Of Nebraska

Because Lincoln is the capital city of Nebraska, there are tons and tons of things to do there.

It’s a great destination for your next family vacation in the Midwest.

Within the city, you can tour museums, art galleries, and historical sites.

One of the most popular attractions in Lincoln is Pioneer Park.

Pioneer Park is 668 acres of tall prairie grass, streams, trails, wetlands, and woodlands.

There are also ruins scattered throughout the acres of land.

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.

No matter what you’re interested in, Lincoln Nebraska is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest.

Check Out Historical Sites In Lafayette Indiana

Lafayette is one of the coolest Midwest vacation spots for history lovers.

The city is home to several historical sites and parks.

They are some of the most popular things to do when visiting Lafayette.

At Prophetstown State Park you’ll be able to explore a unique living history museum.

Fort Ouiatenon is another historical park that is built to resemble an 18th-century French fur-trading village.

Even the campus of Purdue University is full of beautiful historic buildings to admire.

There are tons of reasons to make Lafayette your next Midwestern vacation destination. Do not forget the popular restaurants and pubs in Lafayette either!

Maquoketa Caves State Park In Iowa a Is One Of The Coolest Places To Visit In The Midwest

If you’re looking to explore one of the most beautiful places in the United States, head to Iowa.

The Maquoketa Caves State Park is full of amazing caves in Iowa .

In fact, the park has the largest concentration of caves in Iowa. Matter of fact, it is one of the many popular things to do in Iowa!

Within the park, there are 13 caves that you can explore.

You’ll be able to reach them using the 6 miles of trails that wind through the woods and rock formations in the park.

Many of them you can easily walk into and explore.

But be careful, as many are best suited for experienced spelunkers to explore.

If you’re looking to stay in a cabin in the Midwest for a glamping experience, you can’t go wrong staying near Maquoketa Caves State Park.

Wichita Kansas Is Perfect For Family Vacations In The Midwest

If you’re looking for Midwestern vacations for families that are full of fun things to do in Kansas, I suggest Wichita.

Wichita is a fun and vibrant city in Kansas that has something for everyone to enjoy.

While in Wichita, you can learn about Native American culture, among other things.

In downtown Wichita, there is a 44-foot tall statue called the Keeper of the Plains.

It is a statue that marks sacred ground for Native American peoples where two rivers meet.

The city also has a botanical garden, museums, and more.

Throughout the city, you’ll also find some amazing murals.

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.

One of those is the Mitchell Corn Palace.

Mitchell Corn Palace is located in Mitchell South Dakota. Visiting here is one of the coolest things to do in South Dakota!

Unsurprisingly, the Mitchell Corn Palace is the only palace made of corn in the world.

It’s a charming kitschy Midwestern attraction, and definitely worth a visit.

It was originally built in 1892 and for over 100 years it has been welcoming visitors.

In August, it hosts a Corn Festival, and every year the designs outside of the palace are changed.

It’s a really unique Midwest vacation spot that you’ll talk about for years.

Explore The Charming Mackinac Island In Michigan

For an island escape in the Midwest, you’ll want to plan a Midwest vacation to Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island is one of the prettiest islands in Michigan and even the Midwest.

You can only reach the island via ferry or plane.

While on the island, you will find no cars. To get around, you’ll either need to walk, bike, or ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

The island is full of picturesque Victorian buildings, charming island boutiques and restaurants, and beach views.

Mackinac Island is extremely charming. So it’s no wonder why it’s one of the most popular Midwestern vacation spots. And one of the best places to visit in Michigan!

Go Hiking At Minnehaha Regional Park In Minnesota

Take advantage of the beautiful fall foliage in Minnesota when you plan your family vacation in the Midwest.

One of the best places to admire Minnesota’s fall foliage is in Minnehaha Regional Park.

The fall colors are particularly striking in this Minnesota park.

The changing leaves draw thousands of visitors every year to admire them on peaceful hikes.

Minnehaha Regional Park is close to Minneapolis, and it’s one of the best things to do in the area.

It’s the perfect place for an adventurous excursion when you’re looking for places to visit in the Midwest.

See Gateway Arch National Park In Missouri

One of the best things to do in Missouri is to take a trip to Gateway Arch National Park.

Gateway Arch National Park is home to the famous metal arch that can be found in St. Louis.

It’s one of the most popular things to do in St. Louis and Missouri in general.

Construction started in 1963 and took about two years.

The arch is now the tallest arch in the world, reaching 623 feet at its top point.

In 2018, the arch became a national park and continues to be a popular tourist attraction in Missouri.

You’ll need to reserve tickets in advance, and there are often none available if you wait too long. So plan ahead!

Visit Indianapolis Indiana, One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

If you’re looking for Midwest vacation spots, check out Indianapolis.

Indianapolis is often referred to as just Indy and is the capital of Indiana.

There are tons and tons of things to do in Indianapolis!

From unique museums, amazing restaurants , and pretty parks there is so much to choose from!

Visitors tend to check out the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and other Midwest attractions specific to Indiana.

No matter what you’re interested in, there is something in Indianapolis to entertain you.

Admire Waterfalls At Starved Rock State Park In Illinois

Looking for a fun Midwest vacation for families?

Go chasing waterfalls in Illinois !

Illinois is actually full of some beautiful waterfalls.

One of my favorites can be found at Starved Rock State Park.

The Tonti Canyon Creek waterfalls drop 60 feet into a pool of water.

And there are actually two waterfalls right next to each other!

There is a 6-mile loop trail that can be a bit tricky, but the reward is definitely worth the effort.

There are plenty of cool things to do in Illinois and the state’s waterfalls are one of the coolest places to visit in the Midwest.

The Scandinavian Heritage Park In North Dakota Is A Unique Midwest Vacation Spot

You may be surprised to learn that North Dakota has a Scandinavian Heritage Park.

North Dakota actually had a lot of Scandinavian immigrants in the 1800s.

As a result, these immigrants left a lasting impact on the culture of North Dakota.

To honor that impact, the Scandinavian Heritage Park was created.

It’s one of the unique things to do in North Dakota that is also an educational experience.

You’ll find the park in Minot. While there, you’ll learn about early Swedish, Norwegian, Danish, Finish, and Icelandic immigrants to the area.

In addition to informational displays, there are also historically accurate buildings.

For instance, you’ll be able to tour an authentic Sigdal home or the Gol Stave Church.

You will also find some of the best hiking in North Dakota!

Admire Scotts Bluff National Monument In Nebraska

If you’re looking for some of the most beautiful places in the United States to visit, I suggest heading to Scotts Bluff National Monument.

The Scotts Bluff National Monument is one of the top attractions in Nebraska .

It is a unique rock formation that Native Americans once used as a landmark when they were traveling.

As immigrants began heading west, the Pioneers would also begin using it as a landmark.

The sandstone rock formation is over 800 feet tall and towers over the grassy valley.

Its importance in American history earned it the title of a National Monument.

You can also tour the nearby Visitor Center to learn the full history of the iconic bluff.

As an excellent alternative, you might want to visit some of the vintage small towns in Nebraska!

Go Camping At The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore In Michigan

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is easily one of the best places to go camping in Michigan .

The National Lakeshore is absolutely beautiful and definitely worth a visit when you’re in Michigan.

If you’re looking for a unique family vacation in the Midwest, then I suggest going camping!

Camping at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore means you get to wake up to some of the best views in the Midwest.

There are campsites for traditional camping and RVs, so there’s space for every type of camper.

You can’t go wrong spending time at one of the most beautiful places in the United States.

The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame In Ohio Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Midwest

You can find the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland Ohio .

Along with the Hall of Fame, there is also a museum you can tour.

Inside, you’ll find exhibits on all the inductees to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame over the years.

That includes Elvis Presley, Prince, Janis Joplin, and Pink Floyd.

Throughout the year the museum also hosts concerts and events that you can attend.

So make sure you check their calendar of events before you plan your trip. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Is one of the best places to visit in Ohio.

See The Ruins At Ha Ha Tonka State Park In Missouri

One of the coolest things to do in Missouri is to see the ruins in Ha Ha Tonka State Park.

Within Ha Ha Tonka State Park you’ll find some beautiful castle ruins.

The ruins are of a European-style castle that was built in the early 1900s.

In 1922 the castle was completed.

Unfortunately, 20 years later, a fire destroyed the castle and left it in ruins.

The land was eventually purchased by the state of Missouri and became a State Park.

Today, visitors can walk through the ruins and they have become one of the most popular places to visit in the Midwest when you’re in Missouri.

Plan A Romantic Midwest Vacation In Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is one of the most romantic places to visit in the Midwest.

From wineries, lavender fields, covered bridges, and more, there are tons of romantic things to do and see there .

There are a few beaches in the area where you can relax with your significant other.

Or plan a romantic diner at one of the many amazing restaurants .

You can also go cherry-picking, tour the shipwreck museum, or explore a lighthouse.

If you’re looking for a romantic Midwestern vacation, you can’t go wrong with a trip to Door County.

If you love waterparks, there are 13 Wisconsin Dells waterparks for your to explore!

Stroll Through The Weisman Art Musuem In Minnesota

The Weisman Art Museum is located in Minneapolis Minnesota .

Minneapolis is actually a city in the Midwest that is home to several amazing art museums.

One of the most popular is the Weisman Art Museum.

The Weisman Art Museum has an iconic brick and steel facade that sets it apart from any of the other art museums.

Within the striking building, you’ll find an impressive collection of art.

You’ll find pieces by some of the most famous 20th century American artists, like Georgia O’Keefe and Marsden Hartley.

Admission to the museum is free, which is another reason it’s so popular.

See Wild Bison At The Badlands National Park In South Dakota

Badlands National Park is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest.

This national park makes up a large portion of South Dakota .

It’s easily one of the most popular of South Dakota’s National Parks.

Visitors flock to the area to see Bison roam free, admire the stunning rock formations, hike the canyons and bluffs, and go camping.

Badlands National Park is one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest.

It makes for a fun family vacation in the Midwest, and it’s one you won’t forget.

Packing List For Places To Visit In The Midwest

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 visiting the Midwest. 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.

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

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.

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 traveling to the coolest places in the Midwest.

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.

Then this  set of collapsible silicone foldable water bottles  would work well for you as well. 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

There are so many amazing places to visit in the Midwest.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, stunning museums, or vibrant cities, there is a Midwestern vacation just for you.

If you’ve seen or visited any of these Midwest vacation spots, I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Reader Interactions

January 14, 2022 at 3:49 pm

Interesting list. Been to Omaha but not Lincoln, loved it! Got Mackinac and Wichita on my list. And I’m from Akron originally (live in Orlando) so I’ve gone to Cleveland a bunch. Oh, and I love ast Louis

January 15, 2022 at 6:03 pm

I grew up in Youngstown. Small World!

[…] one of the most charming places in the Midwest, is home to both big cities and natural […]

[…] Whether you wander around a winery, spend time in the great outdoors, or just do some shopping you won’t be disappointed. It is one of the most interesting places to visit in the Midwest. […]

[…] is a popular place to visit in Midwest with its gorgeous countryside scenery and surrounding […]

[…] And such a cool place to visit in the Midwest! […]

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Sign Up For Our Croatia Webinar & Unlock An Exclusive Discount Code!

Peep our BRAND NEW Yosemite Hiking Trip !!

We’re HIRING! Join the Explorer Chick team .

Book Your  International Summer Vacay

11 Best Places for Solo Travel in the US

Explorer Chick

November 30, 2021

So you’re looking to scratch that travel bug on a solo trip? Drooling over the best solo travelers quotes with an outdoorsy photo in the background? The classic “If you are waiting for someone to travel with you, you may end up waiting a lifetime.” Or maybe an Explorer Chick favorite, “table for one, food for two, please.” Same, girl. Same.

If we’re speaking your language here, then we’ve got good news for you: there are SO MANY amazing places to travel alone right here in the USA! Seriously, the solo trip options are practically endless. From the classic lights of New York City to hitting the hiking trails in one of the US’s many national parks, traveling solo is all the rage and for the female traveler? There’s never been a better time!

However, if you hit Google with the classic “solo travel destinations” and went “WOAH MAMA” at all the options, then went into decision shock and gave up, you’re not alone. But rest assured — other solo travelers have been exactly where you are now (unsure of where to go, nervous, excited, butterflies, etc.) and you can always go somewhere else next time!

To make your decision a little easier though, we curated some top US destinations for a solo journey where you can meet other women traveling solo, do all the outdoor activities, and explore a new place.

The Best US Destinations for a Solo Trip

1 Stowe, Vermont

Vermont is the quintessential city for a New England solo vacation. While any season can be enjoyable, autumn is an incredible time of year for “leaf peeping”, watching the fall colors slowly creep down from the mountains as fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and cheery yellows dot the countryside.

Stowe is the ultimate stop for hikers, bikers, skiers, and adventure seekers. Down time in Stowe means good food in a quaint New England mountain town without the hustle and bustle of major cities like New York City. Be sure to either hike or drive up Mt Mansfield, the highest peak in Vermont, for some stunning views of the surrounding region. (If you are hiking alone, be sure to read our tips for safely hiking alone as a woman .) There are awesome national parks on the East Coast , so make sure to plan and drop by for some hiking.

2 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Located within an east coast state but possessing a midwestern attitude, Pittsburgh has gone from a “Steel City” to a budding metropolis that welcomes solo travelers. With three rivers converging at the city center, Pittsburgh has over 400 bridges leading visitors to pockets of unique neighborhoods to explore. Over the years this vibrant city has experienced somewhat of a resurgence, with a budding food scene and cultural district that rivals any major city.

Want to extend your time in Pennsylvania? Philadelphia, another worthy solo stop, is a mere few hours’ drive away.

3 Washington, D.C.

With so many museums that are free and open to the public daily, America’s capital is the perfect spot for history lovers. Fill your itinerary with museum and history tours as you take in the local museums and take selfies with all the statues. When your brain can’t take another moment of history or old white dudes, head to the botanic gardens for a relaxing stroll, then taste test some of the different coffee shops.

For outdoor recreation, just outside the city limits is where the real magic begins with adventures like zip lining, rock climbing, and hiking . If you need some help planning that and want to meet other female travelers doing their outdoorsy badass thang, check out all our adventure day trips around DC .

4 Lexington, Kentucky

Bourbon, horses and hometown cooking — is there much more you need? Lexington is an ideal city to travel solo in the US. Visit Henry Clay’s mansion, meet some retired racehorses or relax on an iconic southern porch sipping a mint julep. The bluegrass state truly has something for everyone.

Be sure to visit the Arboretum, University of Kentucky’s botanical garden. It’s free to the public and the perfect activity for a solo traveler. With Louisville, Mammoth Cave National Park, or Cumberland Falls only each a few hours drive away, it’s easy to take a few mini solo trips to the surrounding areas. Plus, one of our favorite places — Red River Gorge — is a mere hour and 15 minute drive away. (To learn more about hiking or backpacking in the Red River Gorge, see our full post about it !)

5 Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is the southern town that dreams are made of. It’s the perfect charming place to meander down side streets and explore small parks and cemeteries that dot the city. With Live Oak trees and Spanish Moss swaying above you, it’s one of the most picturesque towns in the country.

Savannah is often known as the country’s most haunted city, so going on an evening ghost tour is just spooky enough to reveal the haunting history. Looking for a relaxing beach getaway? The beautiful Tybee Island is a short trip from Savannah, a chance to catch up with a good book on its white sandy beaches.

6 Moab, Utah

The epicenter of the “mighty 5” of Utah’s National Parks, Moab gives you a position for the ultimate outdoor adventure in the US. Moab is a park lover’s top destination with two national parks within an hour’s drive of the city. With so many options for hiking and mountain biking trails and camping galore, a solo hiker will be in heaven.

While parks like Zion and Arches have seen an influx in visitors if you’re looking for some serene trekking on your own outdoors consider visiting Capitol Reef or Canyonlands National Park. If you visit Capitol Reef National Park, be sure to visit Gifford Homestead and stock up on homemade cinnamon rolls and mini pies with fresh ingredients from the orchards within the park. Over at Canyonlands National Park the Murphy Point Trail is a great winter hike and White Rim Overlook is another easy hike to do.

If you’re looking to go light on the planning and heavy on the fun, join your Explorer Chick sisters on a Moab hiking weekend adventure with badass guides and a whole lotta SHE-nanigans!

7 Santa Fe, New Mexico

Santa Fe is the southwestern city where art, food and culture collide. Famed artist Georgia O’Keeffe made her home here and there is now a gorgeous museum on her former property. In addition to the O’Keeffe museum , Canyon Road is lined with galleries and studios you can pop into and admire — truly an art lover’s paradise. See a total landscape change from the desert by visiting the botanical garden’s 55-acres of lush biodiversity and wetlands. Then, drive 5 minutes out of town to one of the many trailheads for epic sunsets and hiker gains. Keep it simple at the Dale Ball trail system or really challenge yourself getting up to 9,121 feet elevation up Atalaya Mountain. (Though keep in mind at a baseline of 7,000 feet elevation, you may notice any sort of hike feels challenging when you first acclimate in Santa Fe!)

Be sure to order one of your enchiladas or burritos “christmas-style”, a signature New Mexican mix of red and green chile sauces. A can’t miss place for souvenirs is the main plaza in town. Not only is it a National Historical Landmark, it’s the epicenter for crafts and artisans in the city, so you’ll find lots of art, handicrafts, jewelry and more.

8 San Francisco, California

A big city with a laid back vibe, SF has so much to offer when solo traveling in the US. The city has endless activities to keep a solo traveler busy. Golden Gate Bridge, Fisherman’s Wharf, Coit Tower, Alcatraz, Golden Gate Park, Ocean Beach…the list goes on! There are so many places to explore.

Public transit is easy to navigate so don’t skip taking a ride on the world’s last manually operated cable car system , an iconic way to see the city. There are also many walking tours as long as you’re ready to really get your steps in!

9 Portland, Oregon

The Pacific Northwest is a dream for solo travel in the USA and Portland is the perfect jumping off point. The city is known for “keeping it weird” with its quirky vibe. That’s what makes it such a great destination for female travel. It’s a great place for everyone to come and be their authentic weird selves.

The city is a perfect destination for any food lover — you don’t need group travel to enjoy a good meal. Get out of town and explore the Willamette Valley wine region, stunning waterfalls around Portland , or the Hood River and Columbia River Gorge for hiking, kayaking, or whitewater rafting.

10 Denver, Colorado

In Denver, you have some of the best of the outdoors right at your fingertips. Denver is an approachable city and if you’re looking for a smaller town vibe, you can take a short trip to Boulder and meander the outdoor Pearl Street Mall. This area of the Midwest is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream and all the adventure junkies know it so even if you’re on the trail alone, you won’t be far from other hikers at some point.

Lace up your hiking boots and climb a “14er”— the state has 58 peaks that exceed 14,000 feet of elevation. Mount Bierstadt is the closest one to the city and has some exceptional views of the Rocky Mountains.

11 Madison, Wisconsin

While many might argue that places like Detroit or Chicago would be the first cities you’d think of when visiting this region of the Midwest, there are a few reasons Madison should not be overlooked as a more desirable destination for solo traveling in the USA. Some larger cities can be overwhelming for first time visitors and navigating a new big city can feel like a daunting task on your own.

While the capital cities of Michigan and Wisconsin are both fabulous destinations, Madison is both manageable and fun. A college town, Madison has energy and liveliness with a small-town feeling. Take a walk along Lake Mendota or a sunset cruise. Remember the state’s unofficial drink is the Old Fashioned, so be sure to grab a cocktail and dinner on State Street.

Tip for Traveling Alone as a Woman

With all of this “local” travel, make time for some exercise to keep fit so that you can get out on those trails and hit the ground running. (couldn’t resist the pun ????). If you’re nervous about striking out on your own, you’re not alone! It can be a scary place out there, especially as a woman (unfortunately). If you’re planning on hiking alone and want to feel more comfortable and prepared , check out our virtual outdoor self defense class or book a trip with new future besties with Explorer Chick!

Related Posts

Age Travel Ideas, Inspiration, Self Discovery, Trip Roundups

Midwest hiking involves scenic views and colorful trails, all celebrating the beautiful open spaces of the Midwest. Here are our 7 favorite hiking trails for dreamy views.

Hiking, National Parks, North America, United States

Looking for a kickass way to bring in your fourth decade of living? Here are our best 40th birthday trip ideas for epic SHEnanigans worldwide.

By Activity, By Age, Hiking, Inspiration, Travel Tips, Trip Roundups

Warning: Do NOT Travel Solo In The Midwest! (Unless You Read This First)

Planning an indelible solo Midwest voyage? Learn the secrets to nailing solo travel in the Heartland so you’ll be ready to rock this ! 🌽🌄 #midwestsolotravel #adventurecalling #yolo #yolosolo

Winona, Minnesota – Picture this: You’re meandering along the shores of Lake Michigan , breathing in the crisp, fresh air. The sound of gentle waves lapping against the sand, the distant cry of gulls overhead, the sweet scent of caramel corn from the Navy Pier . Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? Traveling solo through the Midwest can be a soul-stirring journey – if you know how to do it right. Here are 10 mistakes to sidestep so you can have the solo trip of your dreams.

Secrets to Nailing Your Solo Midwest Adventure

Always have a backup plan.

From booked-solid B&Bs to rained-out music festivals, sometimes even the most carefully crafted plans hit a snag. Before you hit the road, do a little digging on backup lodgings and activities in case your original agenda goes awry. Jot down the details in a trusty travel journal and keep it handy. That way, a closed attraction won’t throw your whole trip off-kilter.

Seize the Day

Ever fantasized about hot air ballooning over the rolling hills of Galena or taking a glassblowing class in Columbus ? Now’s your moment! Don’t let flying solo stop you from making your Midwest bucket list a reality. Revel in the freedom to craft your days exactly as you wish. After all, this is your grand adventure. Make it unforgettable!

Pack Light, Travel Easy

When you’re jaunting about on your own, there’s no one to help shoulder your bulging bags through bustling train stations and quaint inn stairways. Give your shoulders a break and pack only the must-haves . Envision yourself lugging your luggage up three flights of stairs to your darling Detroit loft, and suddenly that extra jacket seems superfluous. Focus on versatile staples that mix and match with ease.

Safety First

Venturing out on a solo Midwest odyssey can be a tad unnerving. Set your nearest and dearest’s minds at ease by keeping them updated on your whereabouts. Pass along a copy of your game plan and touch base often, especially if your itinerary shifts. A speedy “All good!” message can work wonders in soothing any concerns.

Build a Budget Buffer 

Breaking news: Going it alone can get spendy in a hurry, especially when you’re covering all the costs yourself. Dodge any money-related misfortunes by beefing up your budget with a smidge of extra cash for out-of-the-blue expenses like Uber rides or that one-of-a-kind keepsake. Believe us, you’ll be thankful for a monetary safety net when your dream getaway throws you a curveball. By the way, the Midwest is known for having some awesome destination dupes that will make you feel like you’re in Europe !

Leave Room for Spontaneity

sIt’s oh-so-alluring to cram your schedule from sunup to sundown. After all, when you’re captain of your own itinerary, the sky’s the limit! But leave a smidgen of wiggle room for impromptu delights. That inviting coffee shop you happen upon might pour the dreamiest latte of your life . Lose yourself in a page-turner at a dappled park. Some of the most enchanting moments pop up when you least anticipate them.

Treat Yourself

Just because you’re swooping solo doesn’t mean you have to pinch pennies on the little luxuries. In fact, traveling alone is the ultimate excuse to splurge on experiences you’ve always yearned for. Relish a farm-to-table feast, book a scenic horseback ride through Brown County, or pamper yourself with a lavish spa afternoon. You deserve it!

Open Your Heart to New Connections

On the other hand, don’t shy away from sparking up conversations with fellow wanderers along the way. Trade tales over a shared Chicago-style pizza , join a group kayaking excursion through the Apostle Islands , or click with your seatmate on a breezy lake cruise. The Midwest is brimming with like-minded souls waiting to add depth to your expedition in ways you never envisioned.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Enjoy the BEST stories, news & jokes!

We won’t send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time.

Embrace the Peace and Quiet  

One of the grandest pleasures of solo travel? Savoring the golden gift of solitude . You don’t have to pack every second with chatter or pleasantries if you’re not in the mood. Attune to the cadences of your fresh environs and let your mind meander. You may be startled by the aha moments that surface when you allow yourself room to simply exist.

Trust Your Gut

When it comes down to it, you are your own finest north star . If something feels amiss, it likely is. But the same holds true for those under-the-radar gems that might not snag top spots in the travel guides. Whether you’re selecting a tucked-away gastropub or choosing which trail to traipse, let your spidey senses lead the way. Nine times out of ten, they’ll point you down the right path.

In the end, embarking on a solo Midwest adventure is an unparalleled opportunity for self-discovery, growth, and unforgettable memories. By sidestepping common pitfalls like overpacking, overplanning, and underbudgeting, you’ll free yourself up to fully immerse in the rich tapestry of experiences the heartland has to offer.

Whether you’re savoring a moment of solitude by a tranquil lake or forging new friendships over a shared slice of pie, trust your instincts and let your curiosity be your compass. The Midwest is a region that will surprise and delight you at every turn, if you open your heart to its charms!

So go ahead, intrepid solo explorer. Embrace the freedom, the challenges, and the joys of striking out on your own in America’s most underrated backyard. The rewards will be more than worth it. Happy trails… you got this!

🗣 Have you traveled solo or are you planning your first big adventure? What’s on your Midwest travel bucket list? We’d LOVE to hear from you in the comments section below. ⬇️

SHARE This Helpful Travel Article With Family And Friends…

Share this:.

• Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window)
• Click to print (Opens in new window)

Jack and Kitty Norton are Emmy Award winning travel experts. They have spent a lifetime on the road: as traveling musicians, documentary filmmakers and television producers. They now focus on building the “Travel with Jack and Kitty” brand which includes a travel blog, guidebooks, podcast and videos. Jack and Kitty offer travelers fun and quirky things to do in Minnesota and the Midwest. Kitty is a best-selling author and loves sharing heartwarming tales under their "Jack and Kitty's Feel-Good Stories" brand. High school sweethearts turned married soulmates, the fun-loving couple lives in the small college town of Winona, Minnesota and would love to have you over for some hotdish.

Similar Posts

Good Grief! Don’t Miss Minnesota’s Peanuts And Snoopy Exhibit!

Winona Author Kitty Norton Tops Amazon Charts in Germany with Heartwarming Dog Stories

Sunny Skies Today, Storms Move In Tomorrow: Detroit Weather Forecast

Top 10 Shocking Reasons Why You Should NEVER Move To Kansas!

A New Bridge Brings $1B Boost to Minnesota and Wisconsin

Step Inside the Magical World of Prince at Minnesota’s Paisley Park Museum

Let's chat leave a friendly comment or thought :) cancel reply.

USA Travel: Notes From A Solo Midwest Road Trip From NYC

I’m a restless soul, and am constantly craving a change of scenery or a new adventure to stimulate my senses. After a short but memorable trip to Colorado’s Grand County a few months back I decided I wanted to spend more time in the state. The plan: use Airbnb to both sublet my place and get an apartment for a month in Denver.

This would also give me a chance to use my 2009 Honda Civic, which I loved dearly but didn’t have much use for living in NYC. The idea of driving solo cross country singing my favorite songs (ps. if they ever decide to reprise Rent I’ve now logged 30 hours of rehearsal time), enjoying the scenery and just spending some quality time with myself made me ecstatic.

When planning the road trip , I figured I could realistically drive up to 10 hours per leg, although I’d likely want a day or two in between drives.

Table of Contents

My itinerary: Detroit, Michigan -> Des Moines, Iowa -> Denver, Colorado.

A Solo Road Trip On A Budget

I didn’t want to spend a ton of money on the drive, so I made sure to pack a ton of snacks and small meals: oatmeal, nuts, pretzels, cans of soup, bread, peanut butter, honey, Cliff Bars and a refillable water bottle were all part of my cheap eats arsenal, as were a few 5-hour energy shots.

I know, I know, they’re awful for you; however, they’re one of the few drinks that actually give me lasting energy. When it begins to wear off I’ll usually grab a soda or coffee and something spicy to perk myself back up. I’m not sure if it’s in my mind, but Hot Fries were my savior when I started feeling the White Line Fever.

I also made use of Couchsurfing , which allowed me to meet and go out with cool local hosts (including an American Horror Story producer!) and get free couch accommodation.

Making Friends

My goal for the trip was to really immerse myself in Denver — which, spoiler, is easily one of the best places to travel alone in the US as a woman , at least in my opinion. It really offers a lot of fun for solo travelers .

I’d been to Colorado numerous times for the hiking and outdoor adventures ( downhill mountain biking, anyone? ), and while I wanted to do a little bit of that I more wanted to feel what it might be like to be a Denver local: picnics in the park, comedy and theater shows, bar events, booze brunch, art walks, cycling to get around.

While I’m fine on my own, being a local would mean I would need to find some local friends, of which I didn’t really have any before leaving New York. Thank goodness for technology.

First step for a successful solo trip : secure an Airbnb. The most important feature would be the location. I wanted to be near downtown, where all the action was happening and B-Cycle bike sharing stations abounded. While the place I chose was slightly more removed than I wanted it to be, it was one block from the light rail, which got me to the downtown Union Station in about 10 minutes.

What was absolutely amazing about the Airbnb was it was more like a share house, with up to seven renters at a time. While for some this might sound like a nightmare, for a solo traveler it was awesome . I loved having people to hangout with, and when I came home at night I’d always find the guys — yes, it was me and four guys — hanging out on the couch with beer, bud and pizza. It was a seriously fun and relaxed vibe with positive energy.

I also did a bit of friend finding before leaving New York. Meetup.com was my first stop. As a solo traveler this is one of my top resources I use almost every trip. I perused the groups, searching by interest as well as poking around at how old the active members were. I found a few interesting groups and events, including two that ended up being particularly welcoming; a group of “not so girly” women who planned everything from yoga sessions to erotic bingo to potluck dinners, as well as a fun-loving Young & Social in Denver group .

With each meetup I met more people, including many who had just moved to town. Moreover, whenever I saw people with profiles or postings saying they were new in town I’d private message them my cell and ask if they wanted to explore. Be proactive and you will meet people!

My third tactic for securing friends, although of a different nature, was dating apps like OkCupid and Tinder . The important thing when using apps like these for travel is to be completely upfront about your intentions. In my experience you can usually tell before meeting if the person is missing some marbles or just wants sex; but just in case be clear about what you’re looking to get out of the exchange. For me I was interested in dating with some romantic possibilities, but also wasn’t looking to be someone’s newest belt notch (the fact you’re only in town for a short while will be a plus to those looking for one night stands).

One of the guys in my Airbnb was also the developer of an app called High There , sort of Tinder for marijuana users. While I’m not really a smoker I downloaded it to be supportive, and surprisingly (or not, this is Colorado after all!) there was a very active community in Denver — I met a slew of people on there! Not sure how active the users would be elsewhere, but it might be worth a shot, especially if you’re into THC products (though you don’t necessarily have to be).

Of course, social media goes a long way as well. Posts on my Facebook, Twitter and Instagram about the trip helped me connect with my readers and old friends, some of whom I even met up with, including a girl I’d traveled through Albuquerque with two years prior.

Immersing Myself In Denver

This was the longest of my solo road trips , and while the long stretches of driving were taxing at times I have to say I felt incredible freedom. The friendliness of the Midwest was infectious, and I’m not exaggerating when I say within two days I felt like I had true friends in Denver. Joining a gym, having a grocery store and favorite coffee shop, and even dating someone regularly helped cement this feeling.

So what were some of my favorite experiences in Denver as a solo traveler? While I could go on forever, here were some major highlights:

1. Creative Craft Cocktails at Williams & Graham . I was taken here on a date, and I was extremely impressed. Named the Best Bar in America at the 2015 Tales of the Cocktail, you enter a “book shop” where a shelf opens into a moody speakeasy, delicious plates of fois gras and croquettes pairing with creative cocktails crafted with atypical tinctures and infusions, high quality spirits, classic bitters and hand-cut ice in beautiful glassware. The bartenders are uber friendly, so even if you go alone you’ll have a great time and get a cocktail education.

2. Cycling Around Town. As I wasn’t directly in downtown I had to make use of public transportation (and the occasional car service; tip: Lyft is your cheapest bet, and if you’re a new user can use code JESSIE299142 for $20 off your first ride ). I would often take the train to Union Station in downtown and grab a B-Cycle from there, getting lost in the local parks and neighborhoods. You can download the B-Cycle app to locate nearby stations to check in the bike, which you should do every 30 minutes to avoid paying the $5-per-30-minutes fine. Otherwise, it’s $9 per day.

3. Exploring Local Dispensary Culture. As stated above I’m not a big pot smoker; however, I was intrigued by the idea that you could walk into a shop and literally buy pot and THC edibles over the counter legally. While I was nervous it would be seedy or pretentious (I know almost nothing about smoking weed), it was actually like visiting a friendly wine bar, at least at Native Roots near my Airbnb. The place was squeaky clean, with walls adorned with marijuana-inspired drawings (such as seen on the bag above) and translucent cases of paraphernalia manned by knowledgeable “bud tenders.” Shopping for pot is akin to shopping for wine in the sense there are different varieties with different profiles and percentages (although in this case it’s THC instead of alcohol). If you’d rather have a snack, chocolate bars, mints, gummies and baked goods can fulfill your desires. Just be warned: eat with caution, they can be delicious yet potent.

4. Hiking Mount Falcon. While Colorado offers great opportunities to summit fourteeners, if you’re alone it may be a better idea to do something more populated and/or mild. One scenic option: Mount Falcon. When I hiked this trail on a random weekday afternoon I saw other hikers, and the trails are really well labeled. For something leisurely the Turkey Trot is pretty easy, while the Castle Trail is slightly more challenging and takes you to castle ruins, and you can do the Walkers Dream, too, the highlight shown in the center photo above. I’d recommend using DayHikesNearDenver.com for hiking inspiration.

5. Getting nostalgic with literature.  Denver is home to one of the greatest book shops I’ve ever come across in my travels: Tattered Cover Book Store . The space has an old, worn feel — sort of like your favorite book — with weathered wood, shabby leather chairs and a slight must, with plenty of common spaces, free Wi-Fi and even a separate study-like room for history and travel books. Grab some Vail Mountain Roasters coffee, single origin chocolate, Colorado Nut Co snacks or a decadent pastry from their cafe and dive into staff pick’s, bargain books, classics, indie titles, and an impressive assortment from a variety of niches.

6. Games at The 1up . With two locations in Denver (in the LoDo and North Capitol Hill) this arcade-meets-bar-meets-concert venue is a great place to show up solo and challenge new friends to Pacman, skeeball, Joust and any of the other classic and modern arcade games. They’ve got 45+ games, 16 pinball machines, three lanes of Skee-Ball and multiple Giant Jenga sets — and an expansive local beer selection, not to mention live music almost every night. Don’t miss their vintage can collection, a whimsical brew experience.

Solo Travel Tips

New to solo travel ?

I made so many mistakes when planning my first trip solo — like booking out every second of my itinerary so that I had no room for adventure.

That’s not what I want for you.

To help you plan a meaningful and memorable trip, I’m sharing my top tips for planning the perfect solo trip — with confidence!

Have notes on a solo road trip to add?

Related posts:

Hi, I’m Jessie on a journey!

I'm a conscious solo traveler on a mission to take you beyond the guidebook to inspire you to live your best life through travel. Come join me!

Want to live your best life through travel?

Subscribe for FREE access to my library of fun blogging worksheets and learn how to get paid to travel more!

Turn Your Travel Blog Into A Profitable Business

Subscribe to my email list to snag instant access to my library of workbooks, checklists, tutorials and other resources to help you earn more money -- and have more fun -- blogging. Oh, and it's totally FREE! :) //  Privacy Policy . 

Check your inbox for your welcome email + resource library password!

What a perfect post! I’m using my Spring break to head to Denver and try to live as much like a local as possible. These are some excellent suggestions, thanks! Actually, this whole style of travel sounds awesome. Now I just need to get an apartment I can rent out on AirBnB. 😉 If you had to do this again, which city would you stay in?

@Amanda: Do you need an Airbnb in Denver to stay in? I really liked mine, though like I said it was slightly removed from the downtown (though very close by the adjacent rail). I’d honestly probably do Denver again OR I’d go farther and re-visit Portland, Oregon! 🙂

Luckily my friend’s family lives out there and they are offering me a place to stay. 🙂 But if I hear of anyone traveling that way, I will send them your direction! I think Portland would also be really fun to stay for a month. You’ve got excellent taste!!

@Amanda: Why thank you. You do, too! 🙂

I’ve always wanted to visit Denver. This post has definitely given me some good ideas. That brunch looks scrumptious.

@Erica: Oh it was delicious! 🙂

I’ve been in Denver and I’ve always wanted to visit this place again and again simply beacause its beautiful and fun and on my next visit I have to try that cycling. 😀 Nice post!

@April: Thanks. It’s a great place! 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

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 .

.css-1shyvki:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin-bottom:0;margin-right:-0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-1shyvki:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:none;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-1shyvki:before{display:inline-block;}} Travel .css-unxkmx:before{background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-size:contain;background-size:contain;content:'';height:0.819rem;margin:0.7rem auto 0.9375rem;width:3.125rem;}.loaded .css-unxkmx:before{background-image:url('/_assets/design-tokens/countryliving/static/images/arrow.svg');}@media(max-width: 48rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:block;}}@media(min-width: 40.625rem){.css-unxkmx:before{display:none;}}

Plan a Trip to Grand Rapids, Michigan

Scenic Spots to Watch the Total Solar Eclipse

The 15 Best Beaches Near Orlando

A Weekend in Connecticut's Litchfield County

I Stayed at Maui's Fairmont Kea Lani

20+ Magically Free Things at Disney World

You Can Stay Inside a Stack of Pancakes for Free

30 Best Places to See Cherry Blossoms in the U.S.

The 30 Most Charming Small Towns in Connecticut

8 Unique Vacation Destinations to Visit in 2024

Mardi Gras Facts We Betcha Don't Know

Dear Friends,

We hope the tailored tours below will inspire you to travel with us. the destinations are carefully handpicked by our ambassadors, who cannot wait to welcome you on their journeys., travel solo, travel two-by-two, but never travel alone explore with the safety, comfort, and camaraderie of like-minded travelers, welcome to women of the midwest .

Belgium & the Netherlands

April 14-23, 2024.

If you are an art admirer, a chocolate- and waffles lover, a history enthusiast, and a flower-buffs like myself, then this trip is for you. Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Keukenhof Tulip Festival …this will be a blast!

Ann Bruntz Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS WE ARE ON AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY – JOIN US NEXT YEAR, APRIL 6-15!

Ecuador, Galapagos, and the Amazon Rainforest

April 15-25, 2024 | april 15-30, 2024.

I invite you to join me on a journey to the world’s foremost destinations to experience nature in all its glory displayed for you to behold. An experience like no other! Let’s travel to Ecuador, the Galapagos Islands, and the Amazon rainforest. Come join me; you won’t regret it!

Rhonda Wagner Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS WE ARE ON AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY – JOIN US NEXT YEAR, MARCH 31 – APRIL 10 OR 15!

Irresistible Italy – Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice

April 15-26, 2024.

Give yourself the gift of travel and immerse yourself in the Italian way of life. This delightful once-in-a-lifetime journey will take you through the most spectacular sites and sights of Italy; the “Dolce Vita” way …life is sweeter in Italy. Come join me; this trip will fill fast!

Susan Hanson Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS WE ARE ON AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY – JOIN US NEXT YEAR, MARCH 30 – APRIL 10!

Greece – Eat, Live, Love

May 2-15, 2024.

If you have ever dreamt about a “foodie” tour to Greece, here it is! Athens, Peloponnese, Naxos, and Santorini …it doesn’t get any better! A silk-weaving monastery, golden honey, the world’s finest olive oil, the best of the Mediterranean cuisine …THIS is how travel should taste!

Lisa Anderson Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS FULLY BOOKED – WAIT-LIST AVAILABLE HERE!

Fairy Tale England – Walking the Cotswolds

May 4-13, 2024.

When I think of the English countryside, what comes to my mind is the smell of roses, a spot of tea, homemade pies, and wool! Oh, and pheasants! What a feast it will be to visit this part of the world. If you have the same wanderlust as me, then come along on this once-in-a-lifetime journey!

Sally Dunham Women of the Midwest Ambassador

REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP.! LIVE PRESENTATION HERE!

June 7-14, 2024

Iceland …! Join me on a magical journey to experience the rumbling ice-covered volcanoes, black sandy beaches, gigantic glaciers silently gnawing away at mountains, crystal clear lagoons, gurgling hot springs, explosive geysers, Icelandic horses, thunderous waterfalls, and the friendliest people in Europe!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP.! LIVE PRESENTATION HERE!

Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – Lewis & Clark Adventure

June 23 – july 1, 2024.

Let’s take an expedition into the West, following in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark! Join me on this once-in-a-lifetime paddlewheeler cruise, an exploration of the senses. We will taste the finest cuisine in the region, view the most spectacular scenery, and hear amazing tales about the rich history of this captivating destination.

FULL TOUR DETAILS FULLY BOOKED – WAIT-LIST AVAILABLE HERE! LIVE PRESENTATION HERE!

Scandinavia – Norway & Sweden

July 2-14, 2024.

There are many ways to see Scandinavia: by train, cruising, driving … Our tour is an awesome combination of it all, so if Scandinavia is on your bucket list, then spoil yourself and join me on this once-in-a-lifetime journey to the Lands of the Midnight Sun.

England – Castles & Gardens

July 23 – august 3, 2024.

Here it is! The long-sought-after journey to enjoy and experience some of the finest castles and gardens in England! Bursting with iconic images; royal palaces, ancient Roman baths and walls, grand castles, country manors, thatched cottages, and the most beautiful gardens in the world. We are off to experience it all!

Lora Black Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! LIVE PRESENTATION HERE! GUARANTEED DEP.!

Canadian Rockies – VIA Rail

July 27 – august 3, 2024.

Untamed grandeur and glacial lakes that shimmer like diamonds, ice-carved valleys, waterfalls and snowy peaks, wildlife and rivers that run through the landscapes in national parks that truly define the Rocky Mountains. Let’s travel through stunning scenery best seen from the VIA Rail glass-dome coaches.

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP. – 6 SPOTS OPEN!

August 1-11, 2024

Come along with me to the land of Harry Potter, King Arthur, Mary Queen of Scots, Macbeth, St. Andrew’s, and …dolphins?! Yes, we are talking about Scotland. Explore the mystical and magical world of Harry Potter, and let your imagination run wild as we board the Jacobite Steam Train; All Aboard from Platform 9 ¾!

Canadian Cities & Falls

August 7-15, 2024.

I invite you to join me as we take off to explore the enchanting cities and natural beauty of Canada. Montreal, Quebec City, Ottawa, Toronto, and Niagara Falls. Trains, rivers, boat tours …what’s not to love?! Let’s travel solo together to Canada this July!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP. – 4 SPOTS OPEN!

August 10-19, 2024

Anne Moore Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS LIVE PRESENTATION HERE! FULLY BOOKED – WAIT-LIST AVAILABLE HERE!

August 13-22, 2024

Ireland …a country that is magical and mystical, relaxing yet exhilarating, a blend of both old and new, ordinary and extraordinary. A land of history and dreams. A land of adventure. A land of beauty. A land that is just waiting for us to experience. Come, join me, solo or two-by-two!

Carol Ann Condon Women of the Midwest Ambassador

Mackinac Island – Laid-Back Lakeside

September 4-11, 2024.

Come with me on a Laid-Back Lakeside Tour. We’ll visit two outstanding destinations, one a hidden gem – Petoskey, Michigan, and one named one of the 20 most iconic hotels on earth – The Grand Hotel. Indulge in Victorian Age architecture, slow down, and sip a drink on the longest porch in the world. I can’t wait!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE! LIVE PRESENTATION! GUARANTEED DEP.!

September 13-20, 2024

Iceland …Instinctively! Join me on a magical journey to experience the rumbling ice-covered volcanoes, black sandy beaches, gigantic glaciers silently gnawing away at mountains, crystal clear lagoons, gurgling hot springs, explosive geysers, Icelandic horses, thunderous waterfalls, and the friendliest people in Europe!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE GREAT LITERATURE BOOK HERE! LIVE PRESENTATION HERE!

New England Fall Celebration

September 14-20, 2024.

Enjoy New England and an unforgettable fall celebration journey. We will explore an area known for its quaint villages, seafood shacks, lighthouses, ponds and bays, ocean beaches, cranberry bogs, and beautiful coastal areas. Ferry rides will take us to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island. I invite you to join me!

New England Fall Foliage Special

September 28 – october 4, 2024.

Enjoy New England and an unforgettable fall foliage journey. We will explore an area known for its quaint villages, seafood shacks, lighthouses, ponds and bays, ocean beaches, cranberry bogs, and beautiful coastal areas. Ferry rides will take us to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island. I invite you to join me!

Angella Christianson Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE GREAT LITERATURE BOOK HERE!

September 28 – October 9, 2024

Join me as we take off to Portugal! Blessed with more than 500 miles of golden sandy beaches, vast forests of cork, fairy tale cobbled stoned villages, mild weather and holy miracles, soulful music, captivating cities, and warm-hearted people. Portugal is just as sweet and fortified as its wine!

CarolAnn Condon Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE GREAT LITERATURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP.!

October 4-17, 2024

New England Coastal Delights

October 12-18, 2024.

Landscapes, lighthouses, lobsters…scenic journeys, a Casco Bay cruise, a lobster boat cruise, a candy store hosting the world’s only life-size chocolate moose, and Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens …it doesn’t get any better than this. If you are a foodie, this trip will satisfy your palate. Come, join me, you won’t regret it!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE! BOOK HERE!

California – Bake My Day!

October 13-18, 2024.

Calling all food enthusiasts – join me on an epic culinary adventure! Fresh-baked bread and pastries, homemade pasta, cold-pressed extra virgin olive oil, sweet balsamic, and delightful wines. Enjoy stunning coastal views on the train from Santa Barbara to Oxnard, and visit iconic locations like Hearst Castle.

Liset Garcia-Bates Women of the Midwest Ambassador

Italy – Eat, Live, Love

October 13-25, 2024.

If you are looking for a destination and time to just enjoy life, then this trip to Rome, Apulia, and the Amalfi Coast is for you! And if great food, good local wine, and the Old-World appeal that Italy is so famous for sounds intriguing to you, then join me! Let’s “Eat, Live, Love” our way through Italy!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE! GREAT LITERATURE BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP. – 4 SPOTS OPEN!

New York City

November 20-24, 2024.

Our journey begins with a sightseeing tour – a panoramic view of the city. It also includes an exceptional Broadway show of your own choice, Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular, along with a behind-the-scenes tour of Radio City Music Hall, a Staten Island Ferry cruise, a visit to Grand Central Station, and the 9/11 Museum.

New York City – Thanksgiving Tour

November 26-30, 2024.

Join me to experience NYC during Thanksgiving! Enjoy an exceptional Broadway show of your own choice, Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular, a behind-the-scenes tour of Radio City Music Hall, a Staten Island Ferry cruise, a visit to Grand Central Station, the 9/11 Museum, and, of course, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.

Belgian Christmas!

November 29 – december 7, 2024.

Belgian Christmas! Come crisp winter days, give in to that warm, fuzzy feeling during Christmas in Belgium! Belgium takes great pride in the grandeur of Christmas celebrations, and we will find ourselves at the most beautiful Christmas markets you’ve ever imagined. Let’s celebrate Christmas!

Barb Wallingford Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE! BOOK HERE! GUARANTEED DEP.!

Austria & Germany: Merry Christmas Markets

November 30 – december 11, 2024.

There is no better way to usher in the holiday season of Advent and Christmas than to travel to Austria and Germany! All of our senses are peaked as we begin this Christmas adventure. This is the perfect trip with a friend, sister, or mother and daughter. Come along, and enjoy! Frohe Weihnachten!

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE! GREAT LITERATURE BOOK HERE!

Historic South

March 27 – april 2, 2025.

Join me as we take a step back in time to places steeped in southern charm and hospitality, rich in history and tradition, and fertile with lush gardens. Engage your tastebuds with the incredible southern cuisine, savor in antebellum architecture, picturesque streets, and the courtyards of years gone by.

Italian Spring – Rome, Tuscany, Florence, Venice

March 30 – april 10, 2025, march 31 – april 10, 2025 | march 31 – april 15, 2025.

Polly Welmaker Women of the Midwest Ambassador

FULL TOUR DETAILS REQUEST A BROCHURE BOOK HERE!

Belgium & the Netherlands

April 6-15, 2025.

If you are an art admirer, a chocolate and waffle lover, a history enthusiast, and a flower-buffs like myself, then this trip is for you. Brussels, Bruges, Antwerp, Amsterdam, and Keukenhof Tulip Festival …this will be a blast!

May 1-14, 2025

October 12-24, 2025.

CLICK HERE  to view our terms & conditions.

Kate Abroad

Top 15 Best Midwest Vacations to Book in 2024

Are you looking for some of the best Midwest vacations to start planning a trip this year? Luckily, there are so many great places to travel in this region of the United States!

The Midwest is often overlooked when it comes to vacation destinations, but it is home to some fantastic destinations that shouldn’t be missed! From the Great Lakes to the rolling prairies, the Midwest offers a wide variety of experiences for travelers seeking a memorable vacation.

In this post, I’ll guide you through some of the best vacations in the Midwest that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Best Midwest Vacations

1. north shore – minnesota.

One of the most beautiful parts of the Upper Midwest is the North Shore of Minnesota. Lining the shoreline of Lake Superior, the North Shore stretches from Duluth to Grand Portage.

Starting in Duluth, you’ll begin driving along Highway 61, where you’ll have views of the magical Great Lake for nearly the entire drive. As you drive, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at 8 different state parks that line the shore.

The first will be Gooseberry Falls State Park, where you’ll find some of the most popular waterfalls in the state. You’ll then come across Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, which is home to a beautiful lighthouse, towering above Lake Superior. Both of these also have fantastic Minnesota campgrounds right along the lakeshore to stay at!

A bit further down the shore, you’ll come across the small towns of Silver Bay, Lutsen, and Grand Marais. Between these towns are Tettegouche State Park,  Cascade River State Park, and a few more.

Stopping in any of these small towns will provide you with the opportunity to check out great places to eat, great shops to stop in, and plenty of hiking trails.

Relax in some of the cozy resorts and cabins that line the shore and wake up to the sounds of waves crashing into the shoreline. You can then start your day early and catch the sunrise over Lake Superior.

Where to Stay:

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: East Bay Suites, Grand Marais
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Lutsen Resort, Lutsen

2. Grand Rapids – Michigan

If you’re a lover of big cities, then a visit to Grand Rapids, Michigan will be the perfect getaway in the Midwest for you.

Grand Rapids is a booming city, located in Central Michigan, just a short distance from the shores of Lake Michigan.

One of the best things to do in Grand Rapids is to visit the endless breweries that are scattered around the city. In fact, there are over 70 to explore in the Greater Grand Rapids area! Taking a brewery tour is the best way to do this, as the tour guides will lead you to the most loved places!

Other activities include wandering through the many museums that you’ll find here or admiring the plant life at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park.

Overall, this major city will make sure that your vacation is one for the books, especially if you’re a beer lover!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Baymont by Wyndham Grand Rapids SW
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Amway Grand Plaza

3. North Dakota’s Badlands – North Dakota

North Dakota is often times overlooked and seen as just a vast land of prairies and grasslands. But over on the far western half of the state, you’ll find the stunning Badlands.

The rugged terrain, jagged rock formations, and stunning vistas create a surreal and otherworldly landscape that will leave you breathless. 

Specifically, visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park, where you can set out on various hiking trails to really experience what the Badlands have to offer.

Even just taking a scenic drive along the park roads is a great way to spend time, as it provides you with endless views of the surrounding landscape. And as you travel along the roads, be sure to look out for the roaming bison, small prairie dogs, and other wildlife that calls this park home.

And when the sun sets, the starry skies over the Badlands offer some of the best stargazing opportunities in the Midwest.

If you’re looking for a great way to spend some time outdoors and explore the Midwest, then this is a perfect way to do it!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Badlands Motel
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Rough Riders Hotel

4. Minneapolis – Minnesota

If you’d rather explore a big city than spend time outdoors then Minneapolis, Minnesota is the perfect place for you.

This large city, when combined with St Paul and the other surrounding towns, makes up the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. This area is home to a huge park system, plenty of shopping, and tons of great places to eat.

Whether you’re looking to just roam the streets of Downtown and wander into shops, or you have something in mind that you’re looking to pick up at a shop, Minneapolis has got you covered.

Make a stop at the Mall of America, which is the largest mall in the country and has over 500 stores. Or head into Downtown Minneapolis and check out the many local shops that line the streets. 

Downtown, you’ll also find endless restaurants, dozens of local coffee shops , and lots of opportunities for entertainment. The First Avenue music venue is downtown, as well as several other venues and theatres. There are also venues for sports games where you’ll find the professional sports teams of Minnesota playing.

Overall, the gorgeous city of Minneapolis has a lot to offer for visitors planning a vacation in Minnesota.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites Bloomington
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Hewing Hotel

5. South Dakota’s Black Hills – South Dakota

Taking a Midwest road trip through the Badlands of South Dakota is an unforgettable experience that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and fascinating geology.

First, be sure to stop at Badlands National Park, where you’ll get to see some of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. Then also add on a visit to Custer State Park, where you’ll see endless wildlife and have great hiking options.

Next, learn some history at Mount Rushmore and the Crazy Horse Memorial. And on your way out of the state, stop in small towns like Keystone, Sturgis, and Rapid City. These small Western towns offer shopping and nice places to eat.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: La Quinta Inn & Suites Rapid City
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Grand Getaway Hotel of Rapid City

6. Chicago – Illinois

As the largest city in the region, Chicago is often considered one of the best Midwest vacations for many people. Whether it be families, couples, or solo travel, you can always find people booking trips to Chicago.

Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is a bustling metropolis located on the shores of Lake Michigan. It’s famous for its towering skyscrapers, iconic Bean sculpture, instagrammable locations , and delicious foods.

While you’re in the city, plan a trip to Willis Tower to see Chicago from underneath a glass platform, try out their cheesy deep-dish pizza, and wander through the many museums and venues to learn the history of the city.

And consider taking a day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park or book a tour of Lake Michigan to admire the views from the water.

You can save a ton of money on Chicago activities and attractions with a Go City pass – click here to check out the passes available .

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: The Willows Hotel
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk

7. Upper Peninsula – Michigan

Travelling to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is a must for nature lovers and adventure seekers. The UP, as it’s commonly referred to, is home to stunning natural landscapes, pristine lakes, and charming small towns.

Explore the shoreline of Lake Superior on the northern part of the peninsula, and check out the Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park and Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.

And on the southern shore of the UP, you’ll be along Lake Michigan and Lake Huron, where you’ll find the charming Mackinac Island. Explore the island in horse-drawn carriages, indulge in fudge, and wander into local shops on the island.

Whether you’re a nature lover or history buff, the Upper Peninsula of Michigan is the perfect Midwest vacation for you.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Pontiac Lodge, Mackinac Island
• Mid-Range Accommodation: The Mackinac House, Mackinac Island

8. Door County – Wisconsin

Another small, charming town that is a must-see is Door County, located on a peninsula of Lake Michigan in Wisconsin. It’s one of the most beautiful places to visit in the Midwest!

Wander along the streets of Door County and admire the stunning lighthouses that dot the shoreline. There are dozens of small shops that are perfect for finding souvenirs to bring home and a variety of hidden gem restaurants to grab a bite to eat at.

Head into Peninsula State Park and Cave Point County Park to see the gorgeous views that surround the area. From dramatic cliffs to dense forests, the area around Door County is beautiful.

Door County is also known for its cherry orchards, and visitors can indulge in delicious cherry pies and other treats. Be sure to pick some of your own to bring home!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Waterwood Shores Waterfront Resort
• Mid-Range Accommodation: White Gull Inn

9. Traverse City – Michigan

Known for its picturesque landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities, Traverse City is located on the shores of Lake Michigan and offers visitors a chance to relax and unwind.

One of the best things to do in Traverse City is to visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where you can hike through sand dunes and take in stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Challenge yourself to climb to the highest dune. And once you’ve made it to the top, you’ll be glad you put in the effort to see those views!

Traverse City is also a popular destination for wine tasting and visiting breweries. The city shares a latitude with Bourdeaux in France and Piedmont in Italy, which are both well-known for their wine production. So don’t miss out on tasting the local wines!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Bayshore Resort
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

10. Isle Royale National Park – Michigan

Visiting national parks is on many people’s bucket lists. And Michigan is home to its very own, Isle Royale National Park.

This remote and infrequently visited park is only accessible by seaplane or ferry and gives you the opportunity to explore one of the least visited national parks in the United States.

Once you’ve arrived on the island, you’ll feel the overwhelming sense of nature around you. This is the perfect way to get out into nature and really disconnect from everyday life.

There isn’t anyone living on the island, except the resident moose and wolves that call Isle Royale National Park home. 

There are nearly 1,400 moose and 30 wolves on the island, so it will be shocking if you don’t see a moose during your visit! But the wolves are a bit harder to spot. While you’re out hiking the trails and exploring the park, be sure to look out for signs that the wolves are there!

The only lodging on the island is located on the eastern side of the park at the Rock Harbor Lodge. Otherwise, you’ll need to pack your backpacking gear and spend time out in the woods camping.

This is one of the most unique Midwest vacations to take, and it’s perfect for those who love the outdoors and really want to disconnect from life.

• Only Available Option: Rock Harbor Lodge

11. Lake of the Ozarks – Missouri

If you’re looking for somewhere to spend some time on the lake, then head to Lake of the Ozarks in Central Missouri. This giant reservoir is one of the premier lake resort destinations in the Midwest and offers some of the best boating, fishing, and recreational activities for people of all ages.

This Midwest vacation spot offers a relaxing time outdoors and allows you the opportunity to explore some of the best places in Missouri. Just getting out on a boat and relaxing in the sun is one of the best ways to spend your vacation.

But Lake of the Ozarks isn’t just a spot for spending time on the water, because you’ll also find a giant water park, caves to explore, and lively nightlife.

While most people had to St. Louis or Springfield when they’re visiting Missouri, you can beat some of the crowds by paying a visit to Lake of the Ozarks.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Days Inn by Wyndham Osage Beach
• Mid-Range Accommodation: The Lodge of Four Seasons, Lake Ozark

12. Wisconsin Dells – Wisconsin

If you’re looking for a family-friendly vacation spot in the Midwest, Wisconsin Dells in Wisconsin is a must-visit destination. Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells boasts a wide range of thrilling water parks and amusement parks, making it the perfect place to cool off and have fun during the hot summer months.

But even during the winter, you can escape to Wisconsin Dells to spend some time splashing around, because there are also several great indoor waterparks to enjoy!

In addition to the water parks, Wisconsin Dells also offers scenic boat tours along the Wisconsin River, mini-golf courses, go-karting tracks, and other exciting outdoor activities. One of the most beautiful areas is called Witches Gulch, which is found in a towering, moss-covered gorge that you must take a boat to!

Wisconsin Dells is the perfect family vacation in the Midwest to take!

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Aloha Beach Resort & Suites
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Kalahari Resort and Convention Center

13. Branson – Missouri

If you’re a live entertainment fan, then Branson is going to be like Heaven for you! Known as the ‘Live Entertainment Capital of the World,’ Branson is home to over 100 amazing shows and nearly 45 theatres where you can watch the productions.

From plays to comedy to live music, there’s something for everyone, no matter your style or age.

And on top of the entertainment, you can explore Silver Dollar City, which is a family-friendly amusement park, take in the views at Table Rock Lake, or wander through the streets at the Branson Boardwalk.

Overall, Branson is a fun and must-visit destination for the entire family!

14. St. Croix River Valley – Minnesota

Want to take in some beautiful views for your visit to the Midwest, or more specifically, Minnesota? Then head to the St. Croix River Valley National Scenic Byway.

The St. Croix River stretches along the Minnesota-Wisconsin border and is lined with towering river bluffs that drop into the water.

Along the shoreline of the river, you’ll find plenty of small towns that offer great views, places to eat, and shops to check out.

Plus, you’ll find beautiful state parks for hiking and wandering around. In Taylors Falls, you’ll find Interstate State Park, where you can explore historical potholes, and in Stillwater, you can put in your kayak to float down the St. Croix River.

For both outdoorsy people and those who prefer cities, this area of the Midwest is a phenomenal place to pay a visit to.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Holiday Inn Express & Suites St. Croix Valley
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Old Jail Bed & Breakfast, Taylors Falls

15. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – Wisconsin

If you’re looking to take your Midwest vacation to the lake, then head to Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Bayfield, Wisconsin is the place to go.

This stunning destination offers endless views of Lake Superior, dozens of hiking trails to wander around on, and opportunities for exploring the water.

Embark on the Lakeshore Trail from Meyers Beach, where you’ll get to explore a few miles of the shoreline where there are unique sea caves below the shore. These caves are made of red sandstone that contrasts with the blue water of Lake Superior.

Visitors can take a relaxing sea kayak tour along the 21 island-studded shorelines to better explore these caves, and actually kayak through some of them. 

And during the winter months when the conditions are just right, you can walk along the rarely frozen Lake Superior to see the caves in a whole new light.

• Budget-Friendly Accommodation: Legendary Waters Resort & Casino
• Mid-Range Accommodation: Old Rittenhouse Inn

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting the Midwest

Despite the name, the Midwest is more middle and North than West, covering the section of the USA between North Dakota and Ohio (inclusive) as far north as the Canadian border and South as Kansas and Missouri.

The Midwest is known to get very cold in winter so if you want to make the most of the amazing Midwestern outdoors but avoid the crowds, aim for just before/after the peak summer season in the months of May-June and September.

You can tell from this guide there are so many possible vacation destinations in the Midwest and you would need months to see them all but for a first-time visitor, 3-4 weeks is enough time to get a taste.

Wrap-Up: Best Midwest Vacations

Whether you enjoy spending time outdoors, wandering around the Downtown district of a city or love small towns, the Midwest has something for everyone.

You’ll find beautiful views, great food, and plenty of attractions for the entire family to enjoy! So, the next time that you’re planning a trip, consider checking out these best Midwest vacations.

This article was written by Kassidy Olsen, a Midwesterner and local travel expert.

More USA Travel Guides

For more USA travel inspiration, check out these articles:

• East Coast Road Trip Itinerary
• One Week in Los Angeles Itinerary
• Northeastern United States Itinerary

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Similar Posts

10 Budget-Friendly Holiday Destinations for Gen Z in 2024

Hey, Gen Z adventurers! Looking for your next vacation spot? We’ve got you covered with 10 affordable holiday destinations perfect for Gen Zers. Forget the clichés; travel is about diving…

9 Tips You Need for Visiting Disneyland Alone

You don’t need to take your whole family, or even a partner, to have a great time at Disneyland. I went to Disneyland Anaheim on my own and found that…

The Ultimate 10 Day Northeast USA Itinerary (+ 1 and 2 week options)

Thinking of visiting the Northeastern Region of the USA? Look no further than this 10 day Northeastern USA travel itinerary. The Northeast region of the United States is a beautiful…

10 Affordable Travel Destinations For Millennials In 2024

If you’re a 20/30 something traveller trying to decide where to book your next holiday without blowing your budget this article has you covered. As a late 20s traveller myself,…

5 Days in San Francisco Itinerary for 2024

Wondering what to do with 5 days in San Francisco? This San Francisco 5 day itinerary has you covered and some. Spending nearly a week in an area is a…

Ultimate 3 Week East Coast USA Itinerary (+ 2 and 4 week options)

The USA is not a small country so if you’re planning a trip it’s best to focus on one region and this 3 week East Coast USA itinerary is a…

• Search Search Please fill out this field.
• Current Issue
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Around the Midwest

25 Perfect Weekend Getaways

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.

Check out some of our favorite Midwest places to escape for the weekend—for entertainment, outdoor fun or just plain relaxing.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

We have one answer for anyone who says the Midwest is flat: Ohio's Hocking Hills. Here, just 55 miles southeast of Columbus, cornfields give way to Appalachia. Hocking Hills State Park encompasses some of the best scenery, including Ash Cave, a rock shelf that soars 90 feet above the trail. Other outdoor adventures include a zipline canopy tour, the 17-mile bikeway between Nelsonville and Athens and tube floats on the Hocking River.

Door County, Wisconsin

The 100-step climb to the top of Cana Island Lighthouse in Bailey's Harbor rewards visitors with some of the best views of Lake Michigan's Door County shoreline. Walk along the rock-ledge shore for great photo ops of the 1870s-era lighthouse, or stack stones and leave a little statue behind (it's tradition). All along the peninsula, roadside cherry stands, state parks and small towns keep visitors coming back.

There's peaceful pleasure in wending along the hilly two-lane highways and pausing at gems like Hands On Art Studio in Fish Creek and Savory Spoon Cooking School in Ellison Bay. Sit under the stars and enjoy an evening production at Peninsula Players Theatre south of Fish Creek.

Minneapolis

The larger of the Twin Cities does everything on a grand scale. It has more theater seats per capita than any city outside New York, it has the largest mall in America, and its miles of trails trace the second-longest river in America-the Mississippi.

Minnehaha Park includes 10 miles of trails near the river, plus the 53-foot-tall Minnehaha Falls. Looking for a more bustling atmosphere? Head to downtown's Nicollet Mall, a 12-block pedestrian thoroughfare that balances big-city feel with eclectic hidden gems like Brit's Pub (with lawn bowling on the roof). From Brit's, it's a short walk to Target Field, where baseball fans cheer on the Minnesota Twins while savoring local fare like polish sausages from Kramarczuk's. Seven Yankee stadiums could fit inside the Mall of America, home to 520 stores, a Nickelodeon theme park and an aquarium.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

If you're going to while away the summer on a front porch, why not go to the biggest one of them all, at Mackinac Island's iconic Grand Hotel? (Even if you don't want to pay for a room, at least walk by for a peek at this white-columned landmark.) Most visitors come to this no-cars-allowed island for leisurely carriage rides and fudge-munching, but if you leave the downtown area, you'll find yourself in one of Michigan's prettiest state parks, where a 70-mile trail network winds through woods and limestone outcroppings.

Indianapolis

Sports are a big deal in this exciting capital city . Consider the Indy 500, the Colts and the NCAA Hall of Champions, to name a few. But pride extends to cultural destinations, too. View permanent European, Asian, contemporary and African collections on 152 sculpture-dotted acres at the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields.

The ethnically diverse Broad Ripple Village has an array of cafes, art galleries, shops and brewpubs in cottages and pastel storefronts. We especially love Public Greens (Indy's first non-profit restaurant) and The Cake Bake Shop (a Parisian bakery serving macarons and cupcakes). Walk off meals at White River State Park, with paths leading past the Indianapolis Zoo, Indiana State Museum and the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art.

Custer State Park, South Dakota

Bison, prairie dogs, elk and other creatures roam near (and often cross!) the Wildlife Loop Road at Custer State Park, about 45 miles southwest of Rapid City. But animals are just the beginning here. Scenic Needles Highway winds through the park, hiking trails beg for exploration, and even rookie campers will feel at home at the park's Blue Bell campground .

On the western shore of Lake Michigan, the Midwest's biggest city blends outdoor recreation and cosmopolitan luxuries. Millions visit each year to shop the Magnificent Mile, explore Millennium Park and cheer on one of the pro sports home teams. Jazz clubs and theaters keep the party going into the night.

You can view the city's bustle from the Ledge, a clear-glass case jutting out from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. From here, plot out your game plan for conquering the city, which could include a full day of exploring world-class museums like The Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. And don't forget about the city's legendary eats, from cheesy deep-dish pizza to refined white-tablecloth fare.

Kansas City, Missouri

The state's largest city has way more to offer than its famed jazz and barbecue , but those are good places to start. Fill up on juicy BBQ at one of dozens of joints (some of our favorites: Arthur Bryant's, Fiorella's Jack Stack Barbecue, Gates Bar-B-Q and Q39). Exhibits at the American Jazz Museum tap KC's musical heritage. Other outstanding museums in the city include the Nelson-Atkins Museum with its 22-acre sculpture park (pictured), the National World War I Museum at Liberty Memorial, the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum and the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures.

Traverse City, Michigan

When you pack your bags for this Lake Michigan harbor town , include your sense of adventure. Lively experiences—wine-country tours by bike, pub crawls by water and summer camp for grown-ups—color escapes. Spend a day in the sun at one of the city's six public sandy spots. Popular Clinch Park sits downtown. Also downtown: amazing eats. Stone arches shelter diners enjoying traditional Italian cuisine at Trattoria Stella inside The Village at Grand Traverse Commons, which is also home to an art gallery, boutique shops and wine tasting room.

You'll think you've landed in Europe the first time you tour one of the seven wineries on Old Mission Peninsula . Tidy vineyards and orchards blanket lush green hills along the 20-mile-long peninsula north of Traverse City, and beyond them, Lake Michigan (or more precisely, Grand Traverse Bay) sparkles as blue as the Mediterranean.

Once the jumping off point for westward-bound pioneers, this major metro is a destination in its own right . Ride up The Gateway Arch in a Jetsons-like pod for 30-mile views. Closer to the ground, explore sprawling Forest Park, which is larger than New York City's Central Park. Free attractions within the park include a history museum, science center, art museum and zoo.

If you're looking for eclectic, look no further than the City Museum, home to an Enchanted Caves area where kids and adults crawl through the nooks and crannies of a former shoe factory. And don't leave without a taste of the city's rich music heritage. Spend an evening at Blueberry Hill, a music club and eatery in the Delmar Loop.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Sure, Lake of the Ozarks attracts thousands of visitors to central Missouri, but early morning, you'll hear just three sounds: birdsong, water lapping and the put-put of fishing boats. By midday, the symphony grows to include speedboats, dockside restaurants and cannonballing kids. Come nightfall, quiet sets in again over the water, but laughter and conversation ring out from the edge of every cove.

Politicians and 4-H'ers find plenty to do in Des Moines , home to both the gold-capped capitol (free guided tours available) and state fair (attracting more than 1 million visitors each year). High-end eats and fine art balance produce vendors at the farmers market and thrills at Adventureland, the state's largest amusement park. More than 30 modern sculptures scatter across downtown's two-block John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park. View on your own or request a tour from The Des Moines Art Center, which curates the collection.

Stroll the brick-paved Old Market district, a complex of historic warehouses now housing shops and restaurants, in Nebraska's largest city . Sunlight warms the exhibits in the desert dome of nearby Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium to a toasty 80 degrees. Paths wind around sandy enclosures, where cacti sprout and cottontail bunnies scamper on hillsides. (Personally, we love the African Klipspringer, which look like toy-size deer.) You could spend an entire day exploring Omaha's museums, including the impressive Durham Museum housed in a gorgeous train station. The equally beautiful Joslyn Art Museum, with its fine examples of Art Deco architecture, is slated to reopen in 2024 after an extensive renovation and expansion.

Flint Hills, Kansas

A simple Kansas truth: You'll never see the same prairie sky twice. On a perfect autumn day, wispy clouds streak across a cerulean canvas. Come summer, storms arrive, and lightning zigzags through the thunderheads. But then the sun returns, rising above the horizon like a crimson dinner plate. The Flint Hills offer some of the Midwest's best bird-watching , but make sure to put down the binoculars and admire the biggest, prettiest sky this side of heaven. You can experience the Flint Hills along hiking, biking and driving routes; ranch bed and breakfasts offer trail rides, and outfitters lead wagon treks through the grasslands.

Medora, North Dakota

Where better to celebrate the original "Rough Rider" than on his old stomping grounds? Medora Musical re-creates Teddy Roosevelt's cowboy days with singing, dancing and even fireworks, all under a night sky in the stunning North Dakota Badlands. You'll come away tapping your toes—and eager to check out nearby Theodore Roosevelt National Park.

Galena, Illinois

The preservation movement in this old lead-mining town has effectively defined the trend toward small towns reinventing themselves (and establishing themselves as great girlfriend getaways ). Framed by northwest Illinois hills, the business district's century-old buildings now house more than 90 shops filled with antiques, home accessories and art. Some 50 inns and hotels welcome travelers, and restaurants serve seemingly every taste. If Main Street or the many festivals get too crowded, escape with a hot-air balloon ride, spa treatment or pottery class. Check out our list of the best things to do in Galena .

Crowds gather every day at noon to see the Milwaukee Art Museum flap its 217-foot sun-shading "wings," like a mechanical bird silently taking flight. Check out the fine art collection, and then head to the funky Third Ward district for gallery hopping. Summer festivals happen almost every weekend, so complete your trip with live music, beer and a classic Wisconsin brat.

As cowboys pushed the great cattle herds across Kansas' endless plains, they longed for a glimpse of Wichita on the horizon. Today, the city makes a great stop for travelers touring the nearby Flint Hills or heading south to Oklahoma City or Dallas. Hands reaching to the sky and feet anchored on a stone pillar, the Keeper of the Plains pays tribute to the elements of life (water, fire, earth and wind) at the junction of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers. A 2-mile walk along the Arkansas river connects four museums and the 18 acres of Botanica, the Wichita Gardens, where displays showcase wildflowers, woodlands and glades. Other highlights include The Exploration Place, Wichita Art Museum and the Old Cowtown Museum, a re-created town with covered wagon rides and sarsaparilla tastings.

Many people come to Cleveland for one thing: the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum . And who can blame them? The Hall's collection includes Prince's "Purple Rain" coat, John Lennon's passport and Jimi Hendrix's guitar. But Cleveland also offers a world-class orchestra, a stunning art museum and revitalized historic neighborhoods such as Little Italy, where dainty cookies and authentic cannoli line the bakery cases.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Dells is still the water park capital of the world, a zany place where kids race go-karts through the belly of a Trojan horse. But it also holds a refined side. Dinner, live music and a shoreline stroll under lit torches are all part of the package during seasonal sunset cruises with Dells Boat Tours. Views of the Dells accompany specialties like pot stickers with sweet chili marmalade at High Rock Cafe. And you'll talk for years about the luxury and service you encounter at Sundara Inn and Spa. Sundara nestles within a 26-acre pine forest; a meditation trail feels about as far from a water park as you could imagine.

Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota

A giant Paul Bunyan statue greets visitors by name at Paul Bunyan Land, a kitschy amusement park that's entertained families since the 1950s. It's just one example of the outdoor playground of activities in this region. Whether you want to golf, boat or jump off the trampoline anchored in the lake, Madden's on Gull Lake near Brainerd offers guests plenty to choose from. Cycle Path and Paddle in Crosby rents bikes and kayaks for travelers eager to explore Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area.

Dubuque, Iowa

The state's oldest city, Dubuque shines with lively historical districts near the mighty Mississippi . Victorian buildings house unique shops, galleries and restaurants in a two-block area called Cable Car Square. Take the Fenelon Place Elevator to the top of the bluff for a spectacular tri-state view. Nearby, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium includes an immersion theater and 12 big aquariums full of river creatures.

Drive 32 miles south on US-61 to explore more than a dozen caves at Maquoketa Caves State Park, then unwind at the elegant Hotel Julien Dubuque, a former Al Capone hideout.

Columbus, Ohio

Some of the coolest stuff hides just beyond the downtown district of Ohio's capital city . Bakeries, bookshops, and delis line the narrow brick streets of the European-style, 19th-century German Village. The energetic Short North hosts a monthly Gallery Hop showcasing the work of local artists, eclectic boutiques and small yet sublime chef-owned restaurants. Sweeten the day with scoops of luscious dark chocolate or spicy Bangkok peanut at Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams.

Nebraska City, Nebraska

Family activities and fall color star in the hometown of Arbor Day founder J. Sterling Morton . The Frank Lloyd Wright-style Lied Lodge and Conference Center, with a stunning lobby and fireplace, offers an on-site arboretum and Olympic-size swimming pool. Known for its Sunday brunch, the hotel's Timber Dining Room is the town's best restaurant. Branch out to other local favorites including Arbor Day Farm, where historic barns, a market and a soaring tree house offer more than enough to fill a day. Unwind among 72 tree-filled acres at Arbor Lodge State Historical Park, which contains J. Sterling Morton's preserved mansion.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

From the top of the five-story viewing tower at Falls Park, visitors snap photos of the Big Sioux River plunging 100 feet over a series of pink quartzite ledges. From the park, the 26-mile Big Sioux River Recreation Trail loops the city. Downtown, SculptureWalk creates the feel of an outdoor art gallery. Head to 8th Street on the East Bank where locally owned shops and restaurants reinvigorate a warehouse district. You'll find regional art, vintage clothing, Turkish imports, fresh flowers and all manner of gastronomical delights.

Heading here for a weekend? Get our two-day Sioux Falls trip guide .

Russia Travel Blog  | All about Russia in English

• About our blog
• RussiaTrek.org

Sidebar →

• Architecture
• Entertainment
• RussiaTrek.org News

• Send us a tip with a message
• Support RussiaTrek.org
• Travel Guide to Ukraine
• Comments RSS

← Sidebar

The trains and stations of the Moscow Metro

2 Comments · Posted by Alex Smirnov in Cities , Travel , Video

The Moscow Metro is the third most intensive subway system in the world after Tokyo and Seoul subways. The first line was opened on May 15, 1935. Since 1955, the metro has the name of V.I. Lenin.

The system consists of 12 lines with a total length of 305.7 km. Forty four stations are recognized cultural heritage. The largest passenger traffic is in rush hours from 8:00 to 9:00 and from 18:00 to 19:00.

Cellular communication is available on most of the stations of the Moscow Metro. In March 2012, a free Wi-Fi appeared in the Circle Line train. The Moscow Metro is open to passengers from 5:20 to 01:00. The average interval between trains is 2.5 minutes.

The fare is paid by using contactless tickets and contactless smart cards, the passes to the stations are controlled by automatic turnstiles. Ticket offices and ticket vending machines can be found in station vestibules.

Tags:  Moscow city

You might also like:

The bridge over Zolotoy Rog Bay in Vladivostok

The views of St. Petersburg from the TV tower >>

Tomás · August 27, 2012 at 11:34 pm

The Moscow metro stations are the best That I know, cars do not.

Alberto Calvo · September 25, 2016 at 8:57 pm

Great videos! Moscow Metro is just spectacular. I actually visited Moscow myself quite recently and wrote a post about my top 7 stations, please check it out and let me know what you think! :)

http://www.arwtravels.com/blog/moscow-metro-top-7-stations-you-cant-miss

Leave a Reply

XHTML: You can use these tags: <a href="" title=""> <abbr title=""> <acronym title=""> <b> <blockquote cite=""> <cite> <code> <del datetime=""> <em> <i> <q cite=""> <s> <strike> <strong>

• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023