Discover The Best Of The Mid West With Our Travel Guide
If you’re looking for a diverse and exciting travel destination, the Mid West region of the USA is the perfect choice. From bustling cities to scenic countryside, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this part of the country. Our comprehensive travel guide will help you plan the ultimate Mid West adventure, with recommendations on top attractions, hidden gems, food, outdoor activities, family-friendly fun, and much more.
Top Attractions in the Mid West
When it comes to attractions, the Mid West has plenty to offer. One of the most popular destinations is Chicago, with its iconic skyline, museums, and world-renowned food scene. Other must-see attractions include the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Mall of America in Minnesota, and Mount Rushmore in South Dakota.
Hidden Gems to Discover
While the Mid West has some well-known attractions, there are also plenty of hidden gems to discover. For example, the Ozark National Scenic Riverways in Missouri offer stunning natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation. The National Mustard Museum in Wisconsin is a quirky and fun destination for foodies, while the Leinenkugel’s brewery in Chippewa Falls is a must-visit for beer enthusiasts.
Food Scene in the Mid West
The Mid West is home to some of the best food in the country, with a focus on hearty, comforting dishes. From deep-dish pizza in Chicago to cheese curds in Wisconsin, there’s no shortage of delicious eats to try. Be sure to also sample local specialties like Cincinnati chili, Kansas City-style barbecue, and Minnesota hot dish.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? The Mid West has plenty of affordable options for accommodations, dining, and entertainment. Consider staying in a hostel or camping to save on lodging costs, and look for free or low-cost activities like hiking, visiting museums on free admission days, and attending outdoor concerts and festivals.
Outdoor Adventures
The Mid West is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Some top outdoor destinations include the Indiana Dunes National Park, the Badlands in South Dakota, and the Ozark Mountains in Missouri. Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots and sense of adventure!
Historical Landmarks
The Mid West is rich in history, with plenty of landmarks and museums to explore. Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum in Illinois, the Henry Ford Museum in Michigan, or the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail in North Dakota.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep everyone entertained. Visit the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, the Mall of America’s Nickelodeon Universe, or the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo. You can also take a tour of the Great Lakes on a historic steamship or explore the Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, the Mid West has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. Visit the House on the Rock in Wisconsin, a bizarre and fascinating collection of oddities and curiosities. Or, check out the Corn Palace in South Dakota, a unique building decorated entirely with corn.
Natural Wonders
The Mid West is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the country. Visit the Great Lakes, the Mississippi River, or the Badlands for breathtaking scenery and outdoor adventure. You can also explore the caves at Mammoth Cave National Park or hike through the forests of the Ozarks.
Vibrant Nightlife
When the sun goes down, the Mid West comes alive with vibrant nightlife. Enjoy live music and craft beer in Milwaukee, dance the night away in Chicago, or explore the bar scene in Kansas City. Whatever your taste, there’s something for everyone in the Mid West after dark.
Local Markets
For a taste of local flavor, be sure to visit the many farmers’ markets and craft fairs throughout the Mid West. Sample fresh produce and artisanal goods at the Minneapolis Farmers Market, the Ann Arbor Farmers Market in Michigan, or the Des Moines Farmers Market in Iowa.
Beaches and Mountains
While the Mid West may not be known for its beaches and mountains, there are still plenty of opportunities to enjoy both. Visit the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan for stunning sand dunes and lake views, or explore the majestic Black Hills in South Dakota.
Cultural Immersion
The Mid West is home to a rich and diverse cultural heritage, with opportunities to explore everything from Native American history to Scandinavian traditions. Visit the National Museum of the American Indian in Minnesota, attend the Scandinavian Festival in Wisconsin, or explore the Amish communities of Indiana.
Art and Music Scene
The Mid West has a thriving arts and music scene, with opportunities to see everything from world-class museums to local indie bands. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, the Walker Art Center in Minnesota, or the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Ohio. You can also catch a show at the iconic Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Colorado.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore the Mid West is on foot. Take a walking tour of the historic neighborhoods of Chicago, explore the street art of Kansas City, or visit the architectural gems of Columbus. You can also take a scenic hike through the Ozarks or the Badlands.
Architectural Marvels
The Mid West is home to some of the most iconic and innovative architecture in the country. Visit the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Fallingwater in Pennsylvania, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, or the Farnsworth House in Illinois. You can also explore the stunning architecture of Chicago, from the Willis Tower to the John Hancock Center.
Historical Sites
The Mid West is steeped in history, with plenty of sites and museums to explore. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania, the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historical Park in Kentucky, or the Fort Snelling Historic Site in Minnesota.
Biking Routes
The Mid West is a great destination for biking enthusiasts, with miles of scenic routes and trails to explore. Visit the Chain of Lakes in Minneapolis, the Katy Trail in Missouri, or the Indiana Dunes State Park. You can also take a leisurely ride through the countryside of Amish Country in Indiana.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing and rejuvenating getaway, the Mid West has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Visit the famous spa town of Hot Springs, Arkansas, or the peaceful shores of Lake Geneva in Wisconsin. You can also indulge in a yoga retreat in the Ozarks or a meditation retreat in Michigan.
Adventure Sports
For thrill-seekers, the Mid West has plenty of opportunities for adventure sports. Try your hand at rock climbing in Devils Tower National Monument in Wyoming, white-water rafting on the Arkansas River in Colorado, or skiing in the mountains of Montana. Whatever your passion, you’re sure to find an adventure in the Mid West.
With so much to see and do, the Mid West is an incredible travel destination for anyone seeking adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Use our travel guide to plan your ultimate Mid West adventure today!