places to visit middle usa

• Last Updated On
• August 21, 2023

25 Best Things to Do in The Midwest, U.S.A. — Top Activities & Places to Go!

If you’re looking for a memorable getaway in the heart of the United States, look no further than the Midwest. 

The Midwest has stunning landscapes, charming towns, delicious cuisine, rich history, and diverse activities. 

Whether you want to hike, indulge in local cuisine, explore culture, or relax, this region has plenty of options. 

That said, finding the right destination and suitable activities for you and your family may require patience and effort.

I’ve been in a similar situation before. So don’t worry. I got you covered.

Having personally visited numerous places in the Midwest, I recommend the best places and activities for your next adventure.

I’ll review the best things to do in the Midwest, covering the cost, fun, education, and more.

My review aims to help you choose wisely and plan a family vacation you’ll cherish forever.

So, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Midwest as we compare and recommend activities to help plan your perfect trip.

Best Things To Do In Midwest Compared 

From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. I’ve compiled my research and curated a list below that will help you in planning your tip:

Editor’s Choice

The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show

It’s an energetic, thrilling performance featuring talented musicians, dancers, and vocalists.

• Family-Friendliness: 5/5
• Affordability: 4/5
• Accessibility: 4/5
• Fun Factor: 5/5
• Educational Value: 2/5

#2nd Best Choice

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

It offers a unique perspective on the city’s renowned architecture, showcasing iconic buildings from the water.

• Family-Friendliness: 4/5
• Affordability: 3/5
• Fun Factor: 4/5
• Educational Value: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

It offers a captivating experience with stunning views of the city’s skyline and Lake Michigan.

• Educational Value: 1/5

Here are the top 25 things to do in Midwest, U.S.A.

1. The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show (Editor’s Choice)

3216 State Hwy 76 Branson, MO 65616 (417) 339-4663 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

•  Highly entertaining
• Family-friendly
•  May not appeal to those who do not enjoy music and dance performances

Why You Should Go

It’s an energetic, thrilling performance featuring talented musicians, dancers, and vocalists. 

The show features a variety of musical genres, including country, pop, rock, and more, catering to diverse tastes.

The impressive stage production, captivating visuals, and interactive audience engagement make it a memorable and entertaining show for all ages.

At The Haygoods show, immerse yourself in an evening of incredible entertainment.

Enjoy harmonious vocals, skilled musicianship, and dynamic dance routines.

Sing along to popular hits spanning multiple genres. Marvel at the elaborate set designs and dazzling light effects.

Engage with the interactive performances and be swept away by the high-energy atmosphere.

It’s an unforgettable experience of music, talent, and pure enjoyment.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Roosevelt Inn Mount Rushmore

2. Chicago Architecture River Cruise

465 N McClurg Ct Chicago, IL 60611 (708) 488-6343 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Scenic and informative
• Relaxing and enjoyable
• Weather dependent 

The Chicago Architecture River Cruise is an essential experience for visitors.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides fascinating insights into Chicago’s architectural history.

It allows visitors to appreciate the city’s beauty, design, and rich cultural heritage.

It’s a captivating and informative journey through the heart of Chicago’s architectural legacy.

During the Chicago Architecture River Cruise, sit back and enjoy the stunning views of the city’s architectural marvels.

Listen attentively to the knowledgeable guides as they provide fascinating insights into each building’s history and design.

Capture memorable photos of the iconic skyline.

Embrace the relaxing boat ride and soak in the beauty of Chicago’s architectural wonders.

It’s an educational and visually captivating experience.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Angad Arts Hotel

Related: Best Midwest Family Resorts

Related: Best Things to Do in St. Louis

3. Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel

600 E. Grand Avenue Chicago, IL 60611 (800) 595-7437 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan
• Thrilling and exciting ride experience
•  Long lines/wait times

It is an iconic attraction that should not be missed.

The Ferris wheel ride provides a unique perspective and a sense of excitement.

It’s a memorable and enjoyable destination that showcases the beauty and charm of Chicago.

Take a thrilling ride on the iconic Ferris wheel.

Admire the stunning views of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan from the enclosed gondolas.

Capture memorable photos of the city’s beauty from a unique vantage point.

Enjoy the gentle breeze and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the Navy Pier.

It’s a must-do experience in Chicago.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: JW Marriott Chicago

Related: Best Things to Do in Chicago

4. Grohmann Museum

1000 N. Broadway Milwaukee, WI 53202 (414) 277-2300 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Experience the unique collection of over 1,300 artworks depicting various occupations and trades at the Grohmann Museum in Milwaukee, a must-see for art and history lovers.

The Grohmann Museum is a captivating destination that shouldn’t be overlooked.

It showcases an impressive collection of artwork focused on the theme of human work.

The museum’s exhibits offer a unique perspective on various professions and the evolution of labor throughout history.

It’s a fascinating and educational experience that sheds light on the importance and beauty of human work.

Explore the extensive collection of artwork dedicated to the theme of human work.

Admire the diverse range of artistic styles and mediums on display.

Learn about the history and significance of various professions depicted in the artwork.

Take your time to appreciate the intricate details and thought-provoking narratives presented in each piece.

It’s a must-visit for art and history enthusiasts alike.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Americas Best Value Inn Wall

5. Mall of America

60 E Broadway Bloomington, MN 55425 (952) 883-8800 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Opened in 1992, this 96.4-acre shopping complex is home to over 500 stores and entertainment centers.

Wondering what to do in the Midwest when it’s raining or cold?

Who not head indoors, and explore the largest mall in the US?

Besides housing numerous retail outlets, the mall also is packed with attractions suited for visitors of all ages.

Once you’re finished with your retail therapy here, check out the mall’s highly entertaining attractions.

Got kids in tow?

Make sure to drop the Great Wolf lodge Water Park, SEA Life or the lively Nickelodeon Universe.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Mall of America

Related: Best Things to Do in Minnesota

6. Ontonagon

Ontonagon, MI 49953 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled in Ontonagon Township, this underrated quaint town is a terrific spot to experience one of nature’s greatest mysteries.

Want to see the surreal Aurora Borealis, but don’t want to travel far?

The truth is, you don’t have to travel to Alaska, Canada, Norway or Iceland, to catch this striking natural phenomenon.

Just head to Ontonagon, between September and March, and you’ll have a rare chance to see this unearthly natural light show.

There are, of course, other noteworthy activities and attractions in Ontonagon.

Our favorites include Summit Peak, Presque Isle river, Lake of the Clouds and Bond Falls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Metropolitan at The 9, Autograph Collection

7. Indy 500

4750 W 16th St Indianapolis, IN 46222 (317) 492-6784 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Held traditionally every Memorial Day weekend, this annual event in Speedway, IN is a bucket-list-worthy experience.

They don’t call Indy 500 “the Greatest Spectacle in Racing” for nothing.

In fact, it’s deemed as part of the famous Triple Crown of Motorsport, which consists of 3 of the world’s most prestigious racing events.

From live shows and pre-races to the main event, Indy 500 is action-packed, filled with colorful activities.

But, if you can’t make it to the actual race, the Indiana Motor Speedway, the race’s venue, is still worth a visit.

Open year round, the speedway’s museum features a plethora of exhibits showcasing the race’s history.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites And Conference Center Downtown

Related: Best Things to Do in Indianapolis

8. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

9922 W Front St Empire, MI 49630 (231) 326-4700 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan, this extraordinary park is famous for its massive sand dunes and beaches.

Encompassing more than 30 miles of Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this national park boasts a bevy of natural wonders.

Not only does it have freshwater beaches , but it also has hidden escapes and towering bluffs.

Hike the 3.5-mile Dune Climb trail, which leads you to the scenic lakeshore.

Alternatively, you may bike along the beautiful Bear Heritage Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Empire Lakeshore Inn

9. Iowa State Fair

3000 E Grand Ave Des Moines, IA 50317 (515) 262-3111 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Celebrated annually since 1854, this internationally renowned state fair in Des Moines draws more than a million visitors.

The Iowa State Fair is a feast for the senses.

For 11 consecutive August days, this state fair turns Des Moines into a convivial wonderland with its trade shows and concerts.

Moreover, the fair offers antique shows, flea markets, live exhibits and auto shows.

Earn a purple ribbon, eat a corn dog and ride an exhilarating roller coaster.

For music fans, catch the talent search as well as fantastic live concerts.

You can also spot and touch the charming and huge animals of the fair, including rams, boars and bulls.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sleep Inn & Suites Pleasant Hill – Des Moine s

Related: Restaurants: Des Moines

10. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

1100 E 9th St Cleveland, OH 44114 (216) 781-7625 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Established in 1995, this museum chronicles the history of rock music and its notable figures.

The museum is home to a cornucopia of special collections and artifacts from the genre’s all-time top musicians.

Exhibits of the museum are spread perfectly over 6 floors, and include costumes, props and instruments used by David Bowie, The Beatles and Elvis.

Watch the inductee videos and short films within the museum.

Also, spend time appreciating the massive memorabilia collection and historical aspects behind every exhibit.

Related: Best Things to Do in Cleveland

11. Starved Rock State Park

2678 E 875th Rd Oglesby, IL 61348 (815) 667-4726 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Famed for its dramatic canyons, this 2,630-acre park in Illinois guarantees to quench your thirst for adventure.

Starved Rock State Park beckons visitors with 18 eye-catching canyons that were carved over the millennia by glacial meltwater.

Additionally, the park is home to 14 refreshing waters and 13 miles of trails for biking or hiking.

Take a plunge in the park’s refreshing natural springs.

For something a bit more active, you can also go hunting, hiking and biking.

And, if you prefer a more relaxing activity, camp or fish in this state park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Peru Starved Rock State Park

12. Enchanted Highway

607 Main St Regent, ND 58650 (701) 563-6400 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Nestled in North Dakota, this 32-mile stretch is adorned with bizarrely wonderful sculptures made from scrap metal.

If you’re searching for free things to do in the Midwest, look no further than Enchanted Highway.

Constructed by Gary Greff, this whimsical highway is home to the largest scrap metal sculpture in the world – the 100-foot tall Geese In Flight.

Be mesmerized by the magnificent “Geese in Flight” and “Grasshoppers” sculptures.

You’ll also love the sunset views of the “Deer Crossing” on this unique highway in the Midwest.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Bowman Lodge & Convention Center

13. The Victorian House Museum

484 Wooster Rd Millersburg, OH 44654 (330) 674-0022 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Built originally in 1902, this historical Victorian house is listed on the US National Register of Historic Places.

Millersburg’s Victorian House Museum is filled with displays highlighting the largest Amish settlement in Ohio .

Even better, this opulent 28-room home flaunts intricate period pieces, furniture and glassware.

The best time to visit this museum is in winter when it’s decorated with over 40 trees and holiday decor.

There are also theatrical effects with sound and lights to create a quintessential Victorian era feel.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express & Suites – Millersburg

14. Walker Art Center

725 Vineland PI Minneapolis, MN 55403 (612) 375-7600 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

With 700,000 visitors per year, this Minneapolis treasure trove is certainly one of the country’s most-visited modern art museums.

Walker is a paradise for modern and contemporary art connoisseurs.

Aside from its jaw-dropping architecture, it also houses more than 13,000 contemporary and modern pieces, including sculptures, prints and paintings.

Stroll through the sculpture garden, and be enticed by its beautiful trees and art pieces.

Once done, head inside, and see countless world-class pieces of art.

You may also partake in any of the museum’s screenings, special performances, lectures, workshops and classes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Radisson Blu Minneapolis Downtown

Related: Places to Eat in Minneapolis, MN

Related: Best Things to Do in Minneapolis

15. Isle Royale National Park

Isle Royale National Park, mi 49931 (906) 482-0984 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

In 1980, this national park in Michigan was recognized as a UNESCO International Biosphere Reserve.

Rising from Lake Superior’s waters, this remote oasis is perfect for anyone who wants to escape their monotonous daily grind.

Untamed and rough, this pristine park is home to some interesting animals, including immigrant moose and wolves.

Experience a backcountry adventure like no other by walking portions of its 165 miles of hiking trails.

In addition, you can venture into its scalloped shoreline and 46 lakes.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: East Bay Suites

16. Henry Doorly Zoo

3701 S 10th St Omaha, NE 68107 (402) 733-8401 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Founded in 1894, this nationally famous zoo is beloved for its animal research and conservation.

With its innovative animal conservation techniques, it’s easy to see why Henry Doorly is often named as the world’s best zoo.

Plus, the zoo is home to several terrific exhibits, including the Desert Dome.

See North America’s biggest cat complex and the world’s largest indoor swamp: the Kingdoms of the Night.

To make your trip even more memorable, drop by the Desert Dome and the Lied Jungle, which is one of the largest indoor rainforests in the world.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Element Omaha Midtown Crossing

Related: Best Things to Do in Omaha

17. Ford Drive-In

10400 Ford Rd Dearborn, MI 48126 (313) 846-6910 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ford Drive-In is the largest drive-in theater in America with 9 screens and spacious parking for over 2,000 cars.

Ford Drive-In is truly one of the most captivating and nostalgic things to do in the Midwest tonight.

Open year-round, this old-school drive-in theater lets you enjoy a movie from the comforts of your own vehicle.

Relive your childhood memories and enjoy a nostalgic movie experience by catching the double-feature flicks at Ford Drive-In.

There’s also a playground for families who are traveling with sprightly youngsters.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Henry, Autograph Collection

Related: Best Restaurants in Dearborn

18. Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Dr Sandusky, OH 44870 (419) 627-2350 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Since 1879, this 364-acre amusement park in Sandusky has been thrilling visitors with its mind-blowing rides.

You’ll find a wide range of options for family fun and entertainment at this amusement park.

Billed as the roller coaster capital of the world, Cedar Point also houses stomach-dropping and adrenaline-pumping rides for thrill-seekers.

To me, it’s one of the most amazing family-friendly places to visit in the Midwestern States.

Experience the world’s longest, fastest and tallest hybrid roller coaster: the Steel Vengeance.

If you prefer a milder ride, check out the Top Thrill Dragster and Woodstock Express.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Cedar Point Hotel Breakers

Related: Restaurants: Sandusky, Ohio

19. Aire Ancient Baths Chicago

W Superior St Chicago, IL 60642 (312) 312-9610 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Housed inside a restored 1902 factory in River West, this multi-sensory experience makes a romantic night out in Chicago

Looking for romantic things to do in the Midwest for couples?

A word of advice, drop by Aire Ancient Baths Chicago.

With an array of therapeutic and beauty treatments, this bathhouse will give you and your partner a romantic and relaxing experience in Chi-town. ‘

Indulge in their Red Wine Bath experience, which submerges love birds in polyphenol and antioxidant-rich red grapes.

Additionally, the experience includes a soothing 1-hour-long massage using grapeseed oils.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Viceroy Chicago

20. Corn Palace

604 N Main St Mitchell, SD 57301 (605) 995-8430 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Completed in 1921, this Moorish Revival structure is decorated with designs and murals that are made from corn.

Every year since its inception in 1892, artists from Mitchell have been decorating the facade of this building with grains.

Labeled as the only corn palace in the world, this multi-purpose venue draws around 500,000 visitors annually.

Visit the palace during its peak season, which is from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

During these months, you’ll see the palace in its full grandeur with a redecorated facade of grass, grain and corn.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Days Inn by Wyndham Mitchell SD

21. Lake of the Ozarks

0170, 403 MO-134 Kaiser, MO 65047 (5730 348-2694 Visit Website Open in Google Maps

The most famous lake destination in Missouri features over 1,000 miles of shoreline.

And, guess what?

The Lake of the Ozarks has more shoreline than California’s coast.

There’s no shortage of fun family-friendly activities in this lake destination.

From sandy beaches and boat rental to horseback riding, it even offers some of the top things to do in the Midwest with kids.

Head to the Lake of the Ozarks State Park, and experience a variety of activities, including lantern-lit tours, boat rentals and beaches.

You can also play a round of gold at the 18-hole course of Old Kinderhook Resort.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Ozark Village Resort & Marina

22. Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965 (800) 223-3557 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Located in south central Wisconsin, this scenic city lures visitors with its lively waterparks and age-friendly attractions.

If you’re dreaming of a memorable family vacation with endless splashy fun, then you’ll love “the Dells”.

Billed as the world’s water park capital, the city features a handful of exciting splashy attractions and spots.

Get your aquatic adventure fix by visiting Mount Olympus Water Park and Noah’s Ark Water Park.

For outdoorsy adventurers, you may go camping and hiking in Mirror Lake State Park.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Meadowbrook Resort

Related: Places to Eat in Wisconsin Dells

23. Custer State Park

13400 US Highway 16A Custer, SD 57730 (605) 255-4515 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

At 71,000 acres, this Black Hills wildlife reserve is the largest state park in South Dakota .

Elk, prairie dogs, bison, and other animals roam near Custer State Park’s Wildlife Loop Road.

But, there’s more to this state park than its intriguing and charming creatures.

With windswept prairies and emerald forests, this state park also offers a relaxing nature escape.

Drive the 14-mile-long Needles Highway, and see world-class views and Instagrammable narrow tunnels.

Alternatively, animal lovers may drive the 18-mile long Wildlife Loop Road.

For the adventurous, you’re going to have a blast hiking the Black Elk Peak Trail.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Stay USA Hotel and Suites

Related: What Is The Midwest Famous For?

24. Kansas City

Kansas City, MO Open in Google Maps

Sitting on the western edge of Missouri, the state’s largest city is well-known for its fountains, jazz heritage, and barbecue.

Kansas City will keep you occupied and busy for days, with its numerous big city entertainment and attractions.

And, surprisingly, the city is pretty affordable, compared to other nearby cities.

As a bonus, it’s dotted with picture-perfect and elaborate fountains.

Stroll along Ward Park, and spot some of the city’s most fabulous waterworks and fountains.

You can also satisfy your taste buds with juicy BBQ goodies at joints, like Fiorella’s Jack State Barbecue and Arthur Bryants.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Phillips Kansas City, Curio Collection By Hilton

Related: Best Restaurants in Kansas City

Related: Best Things to Do in Kansas City

25. Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island, MI 49747 (906) 847-3783 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Situated in Lake Huron, this 4.35-square-mile resort area and island is a designated National Historic Landmark.

No list of the best things to do in the Midwest is complete without Mackinac Island.

For centuries, the island has been a favorite vacation spot in Michigan, thanks to its natural wonders and unforgettable sunsets.

What’s more, the island has a host of historical marvels.

Enjoy a leisurely carriage ride on this no-vehicles-allowed island.

And, if you’re planning to leave the downtown area this weekend, head to the Mackinac Island State Park, which has a 70-mile network of trails winding through limestone outcroppings and woods.

Recommended Hotel Nearby: Lake View Hotel

Related: Best Hotels in The Midwest

Activity Guide 

Comparing attractions: which one is right for you.

It’s always a good idea to compare your options before making a decision to ensure that you have the best possible experience.

Choose the one that aligns with your preferences and budget to maximize your Midwest vacation.

The Haygoods is a must-see show in Branson, featuring the multi-talented Haygood family, who bring music, dance, acrobatics, and special effects together for a thrilling performance.

But If you’re not a fan of loud music and flashy performances, then the show may not be the best option for you.

Take the Chicago Architecture River Cruise to see the city’s impressive buildings from a unique perspective.

The tour guide shares fascinating history and insights for an enriching experience.

However, the primary drawback of the cruise is that it can be crowded and uncomfortable during peak season.

The Navy Pier Centennial Wheel in Chicago offers breathtaking views of the city skyline from a height of 200 feet. The ride is smooth and provides an exhilarating experience. 

While the river cruise offers a unique experience, it may not be suitable for budget-conscious travelers due to the high ticket prices.

The Grohmann Museum in Milwaukee is a well-curated hidden gem showcasing art depicting the evolution of human work, a must-visit for art enthusiasts.

But it may not be of interest to individuals who do not appreciate art or history.

The Midwest region offers a diverse range of experiences, from exploring national parks to savoring local cuisine. 

Although it has some drawbacks, the Midwest’s natural beauty and friendly communities make it a great travel destination.

How I Picked The Activities

As an experienced travel writer, I am an expert in crafting engaging and informative articles about travel experiences, including the best things to do in the Midwest.

My evaluations of the Midwest’s finest attractions are based on first-hand experience and feature insights from guests and locals, providing valuable guidance for vacation planning.

Our Rating Method 

I rate these attractions based on the following criteria: 

• Family-Friendliness: I use this criterion to assess the family-friendly appeal of every activity. Is it suitable for families with kids? Is it safe, engaging, and fun for children? I ask myself these questions in order to rate family-friendliness. 
• Affordability: This is used to evaluate the attraction’s affordability. Will visitors get a lot of bang for their buck? Is it free or cheaper compared to the other options? Does it offer discounted rates, special promotions, or free entry? I consider these factors when rating affordability.
• Accessibility: This evaluates the activity’s accessibility. Is it easily accessible by public transportation? Are there plenty of parking spaces available? Is it wheelchair accessible? I ask myself these questions when assessing the attraction’s accessibility.
• Fun Factor: I use this to evaluate how enjoyable the attraction is for visitors. Will it create positive and memorable experiences? Is it engaging, fun, and exciting? I use these questions to evaluate this criterion. 
• Educational Value: This assesses the educational benefits of the activity. Does it provide learning opportunities to kids? Will it teach visitors lessons in science and history? I ask myself these important questions when rating educational value. 

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some family-friendly activities in the midwest.

Two family-friendly activities in the Midwest are The Haygoods: Branson’s Most Popular Show and the Chicago Architecture River Cruise.

What Outdoor Activities Can I Do In The Midwest?

Hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and cycling are some popular outdoor activities to enjoy in the Midwest.

If you plan a trip to Branson, Missouri, experience The Haygoods show, a high-energy musical experience with impressive choreography, acrobatics, and special effects.

The Haygoods impressed me with their incredible versatility during their 80s tribute, seamlessly transitioning between hits from the era. 

As a seasoned travel writer, I highly recommend catching The Haygoods in Branson. 

It’s our top pick for this list. 

Moving onto the Windy City, the Chicago Architecture River Cruise offers stunning views of the skyline and a knowledgeable guide to share the city’s fascinating history.

The drawbridges were the highlight of the cruise, offering a unique perspective on the city’s architecture as we saw the buildings up close.

For a thrilling ride, the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the skyline from 196 feet up.

At night, the Ferris wheel lights create a mesmerizing show. It was one of my favorite Chicago experiences.

For a unique museum experience, visit Milwaukee’s Grohmann Museum, a must-see hidden gem for art lovers showcasing 1,300 industrial pieces worldwide.

The blacksmithing exhibit stood out, showcasing intricate metalwork and the craft’s history – a great alternative to the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel.

Overall, travelers with diverse interests can have a memorable experience at these unique destinations. 

I had an unforgettable time exploring the best things to do in the Midwest, from the vibrant city vibe of Chicago to the stunning natural beauty of the Great Lakes region.

It’s a truly unique and fascinating part of the country that is not to be missed.

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. 

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You may be interested in.

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

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Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

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Best Weekend Getaways in the South

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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

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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!

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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. :)

Mr.Nagarajan from USA , purchased 1

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Best Places to Visit on a Road Trip (Middle of the USA)

From the Rocky Mountains to the desert mesas of the Southwest, there’s a lot to see on a road trip through the middle of the U.S. 

Flyover states? We think not. 

Read on to discover the most scenic road trip destinations in Colorado, Texas, and more!

1. Austin, TX

Austin stays true to its reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” with the Austin City Limits and South by Southwest music festivals. But you can visit any time of year and wander down the city streets to hear music, from country to rock. Sip a margarita and sway along while you chow down on one of the city’s famous TexMex tacos or barbeque.

Instagrammable Spot: From “I Love You So Much” to “Hi, How Are You,” Austin’s got no shortage of funky street art murals that come with an Instagram caption built-in. 

2. Houston, TX

They say everything is bigger in Texas. In Houston, the Lone Star State’s biggest city, they take it to heart! This sprawling metropolis has tons to see, eat, and do, from two-stepping at a bonafide honky tonk to pretending you’re an astronaut at the Johnson Space Center, made famous by the Apollo 13 mission. 

Instagrammable Spot: Not to be outdone by Austin, Houston has its own graffiti park, too. Swing by this Midtown destination for your choice of murals to pose in front of. 

3. Boise, ID

Step away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Boise by going for a walk or bike ride along the Boise River Greenbelt. Bonus points if you stop for a selfie on any of the Instagram-famous Greenbelt bridges (Railroad Trestle Bridge is a favorite), or hike up Table Rock. 

Instagrammable Spot: Add some classic glamour to your Instagram feed with a photo in front of the historic Boise Union Pacific Depot.

4. Denver, CO

Denver’s got everything you could want in a big city, from an impressive capitol building and art museums to botanic gardens and a zoo. But since you’ve got a car, why not take a small detour to the outskirts of town and check out the Red Rocks Amphitheatre? This place is always busy, even when there's not a show. You’ll find locals running the stairs or simply chilling out with their friends.

Instagrammable Spot: Larimer Square is a historic district with Victorian buildings made for Instagram backgrounds. Browse the vintage shops and grab a bite to eat. For something a bit more upscale, check out the Brown Palace Hotel.

5. Boulder, CO

Plan your road trip into the city with a drive by the breathtaking views of Flatirons rock formations. You won’t regret it! Then, once you arrive in Boulder, take a rest stop at Rayback Collective. This food truck park has a beer garden and live music.

Instagrammable Spot: More epic views await you at Flagstaff Mountain and Royal Arch Hiking Trail. For the city gals, there’s the art deco Boulder Theater and the fun stores and eateries along Pearl Street Mall.

6. Sedona, AZ

The Grand Canyon gets all the hype, but there’s truly nothing like Sedona. The city boasts over 400 miles of trails, with some winding through the majestic Red Rocks formations and others weaving through lush forests and creeks. This is the place to connect with your spiritual side. After your hike, get on with your New Age self at one of Sedona’s many vortexes and crystal shops.   

Instagrammable Spot: According to BuzzFeed , Sedona is Arizona’s most Instagrammable place! Cathedral Rock is a must-see (for the best shot, pose in front of a reflection pool with Cathedral Rock in the background), but you can also get extra girly on a Pink Jeep Tour.

7. Santa Fe, NM

Located just off Route 66, Santa Fe is a capital city known for its Pueblo architecture and being the inspiration behind much of Georgia O’Keeffe’s Southwestern art. Shop for souvenirs in Santa Fe plaza, with hand-blown glass, Native American jewelry, and Navajo rugs to choose from.

Instagrammable Spot: Ready to incorporate some neon into your Instagram Feed? Check out Meow Wolf, a wild series of interactive art installations.

Psst… since you’re already on Route 66, the travels don’t have to end. Hit the road and keep on driving! We’ve got a list of the best road trip spots on the West Coast for you to see. 

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Must-see attractions in Mid-Atlantic States

Mount Vernon

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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.

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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! […]

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Because life's too short to stay home …, 100 best places to vacation, here's one traveler's life list for trips in the upper midwest..

© Beth Gauper

As if we didn't have enough pressures in our lives, now we have "1,000 Places to See in U.S. and Canada Before You Die" as well as the best-selling "1,000 Places to See Before You Die.'

I've been to some of the places listed in those books, but I'll never see them all in my lifetime. I'll have a fine time reading about them, though. Then I'll toss some clothes in a bag and be perfectly happy on my orbits around Lake Superior and the Mississippi.

Our own back yard, while not always glamorous, contains some wonderful places, and you actually have a good chance of seeing them all in your lifetime.

If you need a list, here's one of the 100 best places in the Upper Midwest. When you're finished with it, you'll have so many favorites to revisit you might not have time for that trip to Bora Bora.

For even more great trips, see our Trip Ideas page.

For the best trip to take each month, see A year of best places .

For trips by season, see Best of spring , Best of summer , Best of fall and Best of winter .

Into the wilderness

The Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness is the only Minnesota entry in the original "1,000 Places," and of course, this 1.1 million acre wilderness along Minnesota's border with Canada deserves the honor.

It's easy to visit on a day trip, but its solitude and wide open spaces are best appreciated by campers.

The book also lists the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore on the south shore of Lake Superior, off Wisconsin's Bayfield Peninsula. Kayakers have the best access to the 21-island archipelago, but in summer, visitors can take launches to hiking trails and lighthouses on many of the islands.

In winter, the ice caves on the mainland near Cornucopia, accessible via the frozen lake for a short time in late winter, are one of the region's most splendid and unusual sights.

In far northern Minnesota, the labyrinthine waterways of Voyageurs National Park are full of wildlife and history.

The inland waterways also carried voyageurs and Ojibwe to and from Grand Portage National Monument on Lake Superior, where interpreters re-create a colorful era; the best time to go is during the annual Rendezvous in August.

From Grand Portage, ferries take hikers, campers and kayakers to Isle Royale National Park , a narrow, 45-mile-long island that has 165 miles of hiking trails and the densest population of moose in the lower 48 states.

Pilgrimage to prairie

On the opposite corner of Minnesota, the state's other national monument is a sacred site to Plains Indians, who still quarry the soft red rock that lies under quartzite that erupts out of the earth at Pipestone National Monument .

This marble-like rock, part of the uplifted floor of an ancient sea, rises to a 90-foot-high line of cliffs farther south, in dramatic Blue Mounds State Park .

Just to the east, it pops out of the sod again at Jeffers Petroglyphs , where an ancient people etched their story in nearly 2,000 characters.

Minnesota's North Shore and Lake Superior

Duluth's lakefront , once bypassed by tourists heading up the North Shore, now is hopping. The clanging of the steel Aerial Lift Bridge brings crowds running to see freighters arriving and departing.

It's fun to watch boats next to the canal, but the best views are from Skyline Parkway , 500 feet above town on a terrace that once was the beach of Glacial Lake Duluth.

Heading up the Shore, the cascades of Gooseberry Falls State Park require a stop, as do the view from Palisade Head , Shovel Point in Tettegouche State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse .

Many of the most popular segments of the Superior Hiking Trail are near Lutsen : Carlton Peak, Oberg Mountain and the Cascade River. In Grand Marais , visitors flock to the rocky outcropping of Artists Point.

Inland, a hike to Eagle Mountain takes hikers to Minnesota's highest point. On the Gunflint Trail , skiers find 200 kilometers of groomed trails; stop to eat at the midpoint Trail Center's Black Bear Bar & Restaurant , which transcends the usual skier-snowmobiler antipathies.

It's also a good place to see mushers during the John Beargrease Sled Dog Marathon , and outfitters in the area offer dog-sledding trips you can take yourself.

Back on the North Shore, in Judge C.R. Magney State Park, the Devil's Kettle swallows half of the Brule River; across the highway, Naniboujou and its vivid Great Hall offer a fleeting glimpse of Jazz Age days.

In Grand Portage State Park, the 120-foot High Falls on the Pigeon River are Minnesota's highest waterfall, though they're shared with Ontario.

In Thunder Bay , Fort William Historical Park re-creates the fur-trade era with astonishing thoroughness. In the Port Arthur neighborhood, stop for a meal at the Hoito , an old Finnish logging-camp restaurant.

Then keep going for the other highlights of the magnificent Circle Tour of Lake Superior , with non-stop scenery provided by lighthouses, waterfalls and jagged cliffs.

In Ontario, hike and camp at Sleeping Giant Provincial Park on the Sibley Peninsula and in Pukaskwa National Park . At Agawa Bay, see ancient petroglyphs .

In Michigan, watch the rise and fall of boats through the Soo Locks in Sault Ste. Marie, climb the Grand Sable Dunes in Grand Marais and see the cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on a cruise out of Munising.

Explore the harbor and copper-mining towns of the Keweenaw Peninsula and hike in Porcupine Mountains Wilderness State Park .

In Wisconsin, stop in Bayfield for a show at Big Top Chautauqua and take a detour inland to see the waterfalls at Copper Falls, Amnicon and Pattison state parks.

Sights of Lake Michigan

See everything on a Circle Tour of Lake Michigan , one of the nation's great road trips. It's worth the trip just to see the impossibly picturesque Mackinac Island .

If you're on the Straits of Mackinac for Labor Day, take the once-a-year opportunity to walk across the Mackinac Bridge , the world's third-longest suspension bridge.

On the little finger of the Michigan mitten, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a giant sandbox for all ages, the marquee attraction on the Circle Tour.

From there, a magnificent stretch of beaches and resort towns line the lake, America's freshwater Riviera.

In Chicago , see everything by bicycling the 18-mile Lakefront Trail . Millennium Park and its magnetic Cloud Gate sculpture, or Bean, brings out the crowds, as does the city's architecture .

In Milwaukee , be sure to stop by the spectacular Milwaukee Art Museum to see its brise soleil furl and unfurl. Attend one of its giant ethnic festivals on the lakefront festival grounds — Polish, German, Italian, Mexican.

Wisconsin also has lovely beaches and harbor towns. But many people make a beeline for the Door Peninsula , a vacation playground.

If you're there in spring, see the wildflowers at Ridges Sanctuary ; in summer, take the ferry out to Rock Island State Park . And fall in Door County is gorgeous.

Quirky spots in Wisconsin

In Spring Green , on the Wisconsin River, the Wright masterpiece Taliesin can be visited on tours given by the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitors Center.

A different kind of spectacle sits on a limestone spire overlooking Taliesin and its valley; the over-the-top House on the Rock is said to owe its existence to its builder's desire to spite the haughty architect.

Farther upstream, the fantastical sandstone formations of the Wisconsin Dells were created by a 100-foot wall of water at the end of the last Ice Age, the same kind of deluge that created the Dalles of the St. Croix at Taylors Falls.

Signs of the last glacier can be seen best in Wisconsin by hiking around gorgeous Devil's Lake State Park and on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and by exploring the glens and hollows of the Baraboo Hills , a 25-mile-long swath recognized as a "Last Great Place" by the Nature Conservancy.

Not far from the Dells, the International Crane Foundation harbors endangered cranes from around the world. In Mirror Lake State Park, the Seth Peterson Cottage is the one of the only Wright-designed buildings the public can rent for private use.

In the last century, Wisconsin has been a crucible for many untrained artists, who work their magic in concrete and shards of glass. Wisconsin's folk-art sculpture environments is perhaps the most spectacular in the nation.

In the northern part of the state, see Fred Smith's Wisconsin Concrete Park in Phillips and the James Tellen Woodland Sculpture Garden near Sheboygan .

In the south, visit the Paul and Matilda Wegner Grotto near Sparta, Prairie Moon Sculpture Garden and Museum near Fountain City and Nick Engelbert's Grandview between Mineral Point and New Glarus.

All were restored by the Kohler Foundation. The Dickeyville Grotto, in the southwest tip of the state, is worth a trip as well.

Coulees and river valleys

The last glacier slid around southwest Wisconsin and the corners of southeast Minnesota and northeast Iowa, leaving a maze of ridges and valleys. It's often called the Driftless Area.

Norwegians settled around Westby; at their annual Snowflake International Ski Jumping Tournament , Olympic-caliber athletes soar off a 118-meter hill that's one of only four its size in North America.

In Vernon County , the son of freed slaves left a collection of round barns, and Amish settled around Cashton and Ontario. On the Kickapoo , paddlers travel in all four directions of the compass in the six miles between Ontario and Wildcat Mountain State Park.

Nearby, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail , with its three tunnels, was the first rail trail in the nation and still the pride of Wisconsin's bike trails .

Madison , with its blindingly white Capitol, museums and lively State Street squeezed onto the isthmus between two lakes, is a destination in every season. Some derisively call it an oasis from reality, and many think that's a good thing.

Just to the south, the Swiss settled around New Glarus and Monroe and built an empire of cheese; today, a Limburger-and-onion sandwich at Baumgartner's in Monroe confers instant cheesehead status.

The lead-mining town of Mineral Point drew miners from Cornwall, and its stone facades bear their mark. Their heritage is preserved at the Pendarvis historic site, and art studios and galleries line High Street.

Galena , another lead-mining town across the border in Illinois, also is a magnet for artists, shoppers and Civil War history buffs.

In Iowa, limestone chimney spires and towering bluffs amaze paddlers on the Upper Iowa River near Decorah , a bastion of Norwegian heritage.

In nearby Spillville , where composer Antonin Dvorak spent the summer of 1893, the Bily Clock Exhibit shows what two Bohemian bachelor farmers could whittle over the long, lonely winters.

In cave country across the border in Minnesota, Niagara Cave near Harmony and Mystery Cave near Preston show what drops of water can do over a few long eons. Tour guides offer trips to the many Amish farms .

Nearby, Lanesboro is a magnet for bicyclists, who come to ride the lovely Root River State Trail.

The Mississippi looms large in this region, populated by the spirits of Dakota warriors, French explorers and steamboat captains.

The best views of the Mississippi River give a sense of its scope and power: Barn Bluff in Red Wing; Buena Vista Park in Alma; Brady's Bluff in Perrot State Park, near Trempealeau ; Mount Hosmer in Lansing , in northeast Iowa; Pikes Peak State Park near McGregor ; and Wyalusing State Park near Prairie du Chien .

Chasing wildlife

Wildlife watchers look for different kinds of views. At Horicon Marsh in southeast Wisconsin, thousands of warblers and many other waterfowl stop in spring, and geese descend in fall.

In November, hundreds of tundra swans create a spectacular sight along the Mississippi near Brownsville, Minn., and Rieck's Park in Alma, Wis.

Across the river, in Wabasha and Read's Landing, eagle-watching reaches its zenith between December and March.

On the Mississippi north of the Twin Cities, more than 1,000 trumpeter swans spend the winter at Swan Park in Monticello.

And in April, hundreds flock to blinds in central Wisconsin to watch prairie-chicken courtship .

To the east, black bears frequent Vince Shute Wildlife Sanctuary near Orr, thrilling visitors in summer.

At the International Wolf Center in Ely , resident wolves showcase the alpha and omega of lupine behavior. On the other side of Ely, the North American Bear Center is the place to learn about bruins.

Minnesota lakes country

The headwaters of the Mississippi, in Itasca State Park , are a magnet for schoolchildren around the nation; stay at the Douglas Lodge, which has been housing park visitors since 1905.

From there, the Mississippi heads north to Bemidji , crossing Lake Bemidji near the nation's first giant mascots, Paul Bunyan and Babe the Blue Ox, which have been drawing camera-toting tourists since 1937.

The 106-mile Paul Bunyan State Trail connects Bemidji to Brainerd , the state's busiest lake-resorts area in summer.

One of Minnesota's newest attractions cuts through the best of the Iron Range. Riding the Mesabi Trail between Grand Rapids and Eveleth will be a revelation to anyone who hasn't seen an emerald-green mine-pit lake or such Iron Range sights as Virginia's Mineview in the Sky or Hill Annex Mine State Park in Calumet.

The Mesabi Trail eventually will reach Tower, site of Soudan Underground Mine State Park , where visitors get into an elevator and descend the equivalent of seven football fields into the Earth.

The Twin Cities

In the Twin Cities, no Minnesotan is worth his salt if he hasn't done the basics. In Minneapolis, walk or bike along the river and lakes on the Grand Rounds . On the riverfront , walk across the Stone Arch Bridge and see a play at the Guthrie Theater.

South of downtown, visit Minnehaha Falls and then cross the river to drive along St. Paul's Summit Avenue and ogle the beautifully preserved Victorian mansions.

I wouldn't include a big shopping mall even if it is the Mall of America , but they say it's the state's No. 1 attraction.

To see the cities at their best, go to Minneapolis' Aquatennial in July, one of the best summer festivals , and see the ice sculptures during St. Paul's Winter Carnival , one of the best winter festivals .

In February, the Luminary Loppet on Minneapolis' Chain of Lakes is one of the most magical things you can do in winter, along with dozens of other candlelight skiing and snowshoeing evenings around the region.

Minnesotans, of course, must go to the Minnesota State Fair , Iowans to the Iowa State Fair and everyone in Wisconsin to the Wisconsin State Fair , all in August.

Cheeseheads also must attend at least one game at Lambeau Field in Green Bay (if they can get a ticket).

Norwegians must go to July's Nordic Fest in Decorah, and Nordic skiers must sign up for at least one Birkebeiner or Korteloppet from Cable to Hayward, Wis., in February.

Everyone should attend a few powwows , and it would be a shame to miss the Lumberjack World Championships in Hayward in July.

Also be sure to catch the September Civil War battle re-enactments at the Wade House in Greenbush, Wis.; May's Tulip Time in Pella , Iowa; or, in Winnipeg , the fabulous Folk Festival in July and Folklorama in August.

It shouldn't take a lifetime to polish off this list — but if it does, I'd consider it a lifetime well-spent.

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18 Top-Rated Midwest Vacations

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated May 4, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Anietra Hamper is a native of the Midwest and has been to some of the best vacation spots that visitors can experience.

One of the best features when considering a Midwest vacation is that these states experience all four seasons, so the scenery and experiences are different every time you go. While major cities like Indianapolis and Chicago are top places to visit in the Midwest, some of the best vacation spots are in the more subdued destinations, like Mackinac Island in Michigan or the Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri .

Depending on the time of year you want to plan a vacation, you can consider places that offer ski resorts and scenic byways or simple sunsets and spring break getaways. What makes a Midwest vacation even better is the convenience of getting to most of the cities since they are centrally located in the United States.

Choose the ideal place to visit with our list of the best Midwest vacations.

1. Mackinac Island, Michigan

2. chicago, illinois, 3. door county, wisconsin, 4. put-in-bay, ohio, 5. kansas city, 6. south dakota ski resorts, 7. wisconsin dells, wisconsin, 8. st. louis, missouri, 9. indianapolis, indiana, 10. lake of the ozarks, missouri, 11. traverse city, michigan, 12. duluth, minnesota, 13. mount rushmore & rapid city, south dakota, 14. cleveland, ohio, 15. milwaukee, wisconsin, 16. ohio's amish country, 17. branson, missouri, 18. omaha, nebraska, map of midwest vacations.

Highlight: Simplistic, old-school vacation vibe inspired by historic hotels; no cars allowed on the island

One of the most magical vacation experiences in the Midwest is on Mackinac Island in Michigan. There is a quiet charm on the island, as no vehicles are allowed, which is part of what makes it one of the best places to visit in Michigan . Vacationers are transported to the resorts by horse and carriage, and during their stay, they get around on foot or by bicycle.

Your vacation begins with the ferry ride from Mackinaw City to Mackinac Island across Lake Huron, and whether you spend your day hiking through the Mackinac Island State Park , kayaking along the shoreline and Arch Rock, or just kicking back in a rocking chair to watch the sunset, you can put your wristwatch away and feel comfortable on vacation time.

There is a vintage vacation elegance on the island, with the Victorian architecture of the homes and the beautiful historic resorts that have welcomed visitors for decades. Two of the most notable and luxurious places to stay are the Grand Hotel , which sits on top of the hill, and Mission Point Resort , which is easily spotted by the collection of Adirondack chairs on the front lawn, ready for the evening spectacle of the sunset.

If you want to add some sightseeing to a few days, you can arrange for a horseback ride around the island and visit Fort Mackinac , a historic military outpost. The best experiences on the island happen by just exploring on your own, past the intricately manicured gardens and the lilac trees. You can book a sunset cruise or fireworks cruise on the Star Line Mackinac Island Ferry on summer weekends.

Highlight: The adventurous ways to see Chicago from above is from the city's tallest buildings

The great city of Chicago in Illinois is one of the best vacation spots in the Midwest because there are so many things to do. The Windy City is filled with culture, music, arts, and of course that famous deep-dish pizza. You can theme each day of your vacation to cover the best that Chicago has to offer.

Two of the top places to visit during your Chicago vacation are Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Millennium Park is part of Grant Park, which is where you are likely to catch a summer concert or festival during your stay.

The historic Navy Pier has so much to see, from gardens and restaurants to a performing arts center. You can take a ride on the 150-foot Ferris wheel for one of the best views of the city. If this is a family vacation, the kids will enjoy the Chicago Children's Museum located at Navy Pier.

To catch some of the arts scene in the city plan a day to visit the Art Institute of Chicago , and catch a live show at one of the theaters in the city, like the Chicago Theatre, CIBC Theatre, or the Cadillac Palace Theatre.

No vacation to Chicago is complete without some time to shop along Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile . The upscale retailers and shops make for an exciting day filling your shopping bags with new finds.

Add in a day of adventure hitting two of Chicago's most ambitious attractions: 360 Chicago , located on the 94 th floor of the John Hancock Building, is not for those who are afraid of heights. The observation deck gives you a great view of the city, with a tilt feature that leans you 1,000 feet over the Chicago skyline.

The SkyDeck Chicago at Willis Tower is the other high-rise attraction worth seeing. As you ride up to the SkyDeck on the 103 rd floor of what was once the world's tallest office building, you will be 1,353 feet off the ground and see into the landscape for nearly 50 miles.

Highlights: Family-owned businesses, farms, restaurants, and ice cream parlors that have been around for generations

The Door County peninsula of Wisconsin, most identifiable as the "thumb" of the state, is one of the best vacation ideas in the Midwest because of the variety of things to do and for the number of towns that you can visit in a short period of time.

Door County has 19 small towns along the 70-mile peninsula, which is bordered by Lake Michigan on one side and Green Bay on the other. It is a charming chain of communities with many small businesses like restaurants and resorts, making it a wholesome vacation for families traveling with kids or for a romantic getaway .

You can stay in a place like Egg Harbor or Sister Bay and spend your vacation days going to the other communities to experience the family-owned cherry orchards, biking, or taking a ride on the Door County Trolley to see some of the area's highlights. Outdoor enthusiasts can spend every day hiking in one of the five state parks in Door County. One of the best and largest is Peninsula State Park .

The water is a main draw in Door County, with more than 300 miles of coastline, so plan a few days to experience some of the beaches and kayaking opportunities , where you can see shipwrecks and sea caves.

For a fun day trip, take the ferry to Washington Island , where you can see lavender fields and Schoolhouse Beach with its unique all-rock shoreline.

Highlight: The ferry ride to get to the island has regular departure times to and from the mainland so you can stay as long as you want.

One of the best Midwest spring break ideas is Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island in Ohio. It is a popular vacation spot both for residents looking for Ohio weekend getaways and for those traveling from out of state.

The island is off the northern Ohio coast in Lake Erie and has gained a reputation as one of the best getaways in the Midwest. The island calls to spring breakers every year, who hop on the Jet Express ferry from Sandusky or Port Clinton and head to the small island, which is big on fun.

For the younger crowd, your vacation will likely center around Put-in-Bay's social scene. There is a cluster of restaurants and activities in the center of town where vacationers congregate.

As you head out from the main drag, things get quieter around the South Bass Island state park and the other side of the island. You can rent kayaks and Jet Skis and get out on the Lake Erie waters, or just enjoy hanging out, which is what most visitors do here.

Families will find plenty of things to do in Put-in-Bay , too. It's wise to start with a tour of the island on the Tour Train to get a lay of the land. You can get on and off the train as you like and see some of the top attractions, like the Perry's Victory & International Peace Memorial and Perry's Cave Family Fun Center .

While you will find a number of condominiums and Bed and Breakfasts on the island, if you are looking for something a bit more exclusive, the Anchor Inn Boutique Hotel is an adults-only lodging option that is located away from the bustle of the main tourist areas.

Highlight: Visit two states in one vacation as Kansas City stretches into Kansas and Missouri

A Kansas City vacation is one of the best vacation ideas if you are looking to get the most bang for your buck. The city straddles both Missouri and Kansas , so it is possible to visit both states in the same trip.

Start in Missouri with some of the best of Kansas City , including free activities in town, like the Crown Center, which has great shopping and restaurants and is the international headquarters for Hallmark Cards.

Make your way to the Money Museum (also free), which has interactive exhibits, like a 27-pound gold bar. Walk the city and see how many of the 200 fountains you can spot and see why Kansas City is known as the City of Fountains. While you are on the Missouri side, be sure to take in a bite of famous Kansas City barbecue, a jazz performance, and a Kansas City Chiefs football game featuring the 2020 Super Champions.

The Kansas side of your vacation might be a day trip or several days to cover some of the best attractions on this side of the river . The Kansas City Speedway is a must-experience, where you can take in a NASCAR race or get in a car with the Richard Petty Driving Experience. Another day can be spent at the Zip KC Zip Line Park , which is an adventure park with zipline tours. You can round out your quick visit to Kansas at the T-Rex Café, which is a fun and educational dining experience.

Highlights: Outdoor winter recreation, from downhill and cross-country skiing to tubing and snowboarding

If a Midwest winter vacation is what you are looking for, then you might consider some of the ski resorts in South Dakota. The Terry Peak Ski Area near Lead and Deadwood is where many winter vacationers go, as it is a family-friendly destination in the Black Hills. There are 29 trails for every ski level, and a terrain park. There are also cross-country ski trails through the dense pine forests.

Great Bear Ski Valley near Sioux Falls is another option. It is a year-round recreation park that has skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in the winter. There are 14 downhill skiing trails, a tubing park for families, and groomed trails for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Lessons and rentals are available, so all you have to do is show up.

South Dakota is great for other winter recreation besides downhill skiing. It is one of the top places to visit in the U.S. for snowmobiling, with more than 1,500 miles of trails in the state. Just outside Spearfish , you can find 350 miles of groomed snowmobile trails and lodging.

Highlight: Family-centric atmosphere, more than 20 indoor and outdoor water parks

The Wisconsin Dells is one of the best midwestern family vacations because of its attractions , and it is considered the water park capital of the world . With top water parks like Kalahari, Noah's Ark Water Park, and Great Wolf Lodge, it is great to vacation at one of these resorts, where you have the option of staying in or heading out.

If you want something a bit more private, you can stay at Cedar Lodge and Settlement , which has private cabins and chalets on wooded and waterfront property, with a beach for guests.

The Wisconsin Dells is the kind of midwestern vacation that brings back forever memories with unique experiences, like riding in the Original Wisconsin Ducks , which tour on both the land and water.

The Wisconsin Dells has family-friendly tourist attractions like the Ripley's Believe It Or Not Museum and the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater and illusion show.

To enjoy some of the natural side of the Wisconsin Dells spend at least one day outdoors at the Wisconsin Deer Park , or hike and zipline near Lake Delton.

Highlight: Historic Route 66 runs through the city with old diners and iconic signage along the Mother Road

Plan a road trip through St. Louis along Route 66 in Missouri . You will see the famous St. Louis Gateway Arch and other historic sites along the famous highway. Spend a few days with a loose agenda to make your way around to see some of the drive-ins, diners, filling stations, and old signage that exists along the St. Louis section of Route 66.

You will find an extra adventure by figuring out the various alignments of Route 66 that go through the city. You will travel through St. Louis' diverse districts, which each have a variety of hotel options. For the rest of your vacation, you can settle into the city and experience some of the best attractions , like the Missouri Botanical Garden and the City Museum.

You will want to spend several days exploring Forest Park Forever , where many of the attractions are free. The park is the location of the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Science Center, Missouri History Museum, and the City Art Museum.

If you plan a summer vacation, be sure to spend one evening at Busch Stadium and catch a St. Louis Cardinals baseball game.

Highlight: The energy of the city with the famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Indiana's capital city of Indianapolis is one of the best Midwest vacations because there is a fun energy and so many options to fit into one visit.

For families, vacations will likely center around the Children's Museum of Indianapolis , the largest children's museum in the world , with exhibits that range from dinosaurs to an immersive Sports Legends Experience.

Couples vacationing in Indianapolis will enjoy a weekend getaway surrounding the Indianapolis Motor Speedway . The Indy 500 events in the spring are the prime times to visit, but even outside the race activities, the speedway has year-round experiences like a museum and other races.

While you can fill your agenda with attractions , you might want to plan some down time to enjoy White River State Park, which is an expansive green space in the middle of the city with a three-mile walking path, shops, and restaurants.

If you need a little more outdoor time, you can head to the Eagle Creek Park and Nature Preserve , where you can kayak, hike, fish, and zipline. There is also a golf course in the park. There are some fun hotel options in Indianapolis that range from luxury and themed to mainstream to accommodations in renovated historic buildings.

Highlights: Outdoor experiences like fishing, boating, birdwatching, caverns, and camping

The Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is one of the best outdoor vacation spots in the Midwest and home to one of the best lakes in the United States . If you stay in one of the resorts or cabins in the area, you will be surrounded by water and forest and be able to fill your days with many outdoor activities. Want even more nature immersion? You can book a spot at one of the campgrounds around Lake of the Ozarks .

The Lake of the Ozarks State Park is the largest in Missouri — you can find 85 miles of shoreline, several public beaches, hiking, bird-watching, biking, and boating.

A couple of days can be used to explore one or all of the four cave systems in Lake of the Ozarks: Bridal Cave, Stark Caverns, Ozark Caverns, and Jacob's Cave. While there are thousands of caves in the region, these caves have been adapted for safe trekking.

If you want to get in a scenic game of golf, there are three courses around the lake. For a nice evening out before the bonfire and stargazing, you can catch a performance at the Ozarks Amphitheater , which adds a nice entertainment option while enjoying Missouri's natural outdoor scene.

Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do at Lake of the Ozarks, MO

Highlight: Relaxation at the region's spas, resorts, and golf courses, surrounded by scenic views

A vacation in Traverse City, Michigan is great for a true escape. It is a laid-back area with spas and golf courses and scenic back roads. You can spend some time enjoying the luxury resorts and the beautiful scenery near Grand Traverse Bay and then get out to enjoy the natural outdoor playgrounds in the area.

Head to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for a day and hike the famous dunes or go for a swim in Lake Michigan. You will want to spend another day in downtown Traverse City, where you can go shopping in small boutiques and peruse the antique shops and quaint art galleries.

The Lake Michigan sunsets are spectacular from Traverse City, so plan to spend a few nights enjoying farm-to-table fare at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Highlights: Outdoor serenity with trout fishing, hiking, kayaking, and beautiful scenery

The Lake Superior port city of Duluth, Minnesota is a terrific Midwest vacation because it encompasses the best experiences from the Great Lakes, the scenic outdoors, and a charming city.

A Duluth vacation is ideal for those looking to enjoy time outside and searching for a quieter getaway. There are thousands of acres of parkland and hundreds of miles of hiking trails in the city. The Lakewalk is a good place to start in downtown Duluth, as the 7.3-mile walkway follows the shoreline of Lake Superior.

Anglers can try some of the 16 designated trout streams around Duluth and hire a guide to learn or improve fly fishing techniques. You can spend time on the water with a guided kayak tour along the north and south shores or rent a fat bike or paddleboard.

If you want to take your outdoor adventure up a notch, you can tackle one of Duluth's mountain bike trails with one that fits your skill level. You will want to plan a window of your itinerary to visit Canal Park and watch the ships come in and out of port.

Since the scenery in Duluth is so spectacular, you might want to spend a day driving along the Skyline Parkway , which is a 25-mile Scenic Byway with the best views of the city and Lake Superior. You can make a day of it by stopping to enjoy the overlooks and parks along the way.

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Duluth, MN

Highlight: Ranger talks at Mount Rushmore provide additional history and information

A Mount Rushmore vacation in South Dakota is one of the most iconic American holidays for residents and international visitors alike. You could base yourself in Rapid City and make the trip to Mount Rushmore, located less than 20 miles away.

A day trip or several to Mount Rushmore should be planned out to make the most of your time. The national park has over two million visitors a year, and there is a lot to see, so it does require a bit of visitor strategy.

The Mount Rushmore National Memorial surrounded by the Black Hills is the centerpiece of your visit, so it is worth starting at the Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center to learn basic background about the monument, its purpose, and preservation.

You can take a self-guided tour of the area or take part in scheduled ranger talks on-site. To avoid large crowds, plan your visit in May, September, or October, and try to arrive before 9:30am or after 3:30pm. Spend the other part of your vacation in Rapid City, where you can experience the history of the Black Hills with a trip on the Black Hills Central Railroad, visit historic sites important to the Native American Culture, or hike in the Black Hills National Forest .

Rapid City has a number of other tourist attractions , including the Museum of Geology and a thriving arts district. Be sure to walk through downtown to see the City of Presidents, and try to identify some of the life-sized bronze statues of U.S. Presidents.

Highlight: The social scene of Cleveland is in the Warehouse District, with dining and entertainment any night of the week.

Ohio's second-largest city, which sits on the shores of Lake Erie, makes for a great Midwest getaway for those who love sports, music, arts, and cities that have repurposed industrial areas into modern public and entertainment spaces.

A visit to Cleveland starts with some of the most notable attractions , like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , Cleveland Museum of Art, Great Lakes Science Center , and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

You are sure to find sporting events happening in town on almost any given week with so many teams that call Cleveland home. From professional sports like the Major League Baseball Cleveland Guardians, National Football League Cleveland Browns, and National Basketball Association Cleveland Cavaliers, be sure to pack your logo gear for the excitement that fills the city on game days.

It is fun to explore Cleveland's diverse ethnic neighborhoods and soak up the culture that defines each. Start at the historic West Side Market , located inside an early 1900s market house, with more than 100 vendors selling meats, cheese, baked goods, and specialty products.

Cleveland has multicultural neighborhoods to visit, like the Clark-Fulton area with a Hispanic and Latino population, Little Italy , or the Broadway-Slavic village . For shopping, go to the historic Arcade Cleveland, and for a night of entertainment, head to the iconic Warehouse District for a variety of restaurants and nightlife.

Highlight: Hidden gems that are worth a stop like the Bobblehead Museum and the Original Cheesehead Factory

Milwaukee is a city that is full of surprises, making it even more exciting to visit for fun or to plan a weekend getaway once you discover all of its hidden highlights. Start your Milwaukee visit with a stroll through downtown and through the RiverWalk District and the Historic Third Ward .

You will find the heart of the social scene in the small eateries and along the streets. Stop by the Milwaukee Public Market , which is one of the most bustling places to visit in the city and where you can find unique goods, from spices to gifts.

Look closely around town at the sides of buildings and pedestrian areas for an abundance of Instagram-worthy public art that makes for a fun and whimsical stroll through town.

Plan to visit the beautiful Milwaukee Art Museum , a notable waterfront landmark on the shores of Lake Michigan. The building itself is an art piece, with a vaulted glass ceiling stretching 90 feet into the air, designed to look like wings.

The Harley-Davidson Museum is another must-visit Milwaukee attraction , with a walk through time of this iconic American brand. See the evolution of Harley-Davidson's more than 100-year history, then stop for a hearty meal at the Motor Restaurant at the museum.

Milwaukee has a number of quirky things to do, too, like the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum , which is worth an hour or two of your time. You've likely heard the term "cheesehead" associated with Milwaukee, even if you do not know much about the city. It refers to the iconic cheesehead hat worn by fans of NFL team the Green Bay Packers.

You can book a factory and production tour of The Original Cheesehead Factory , or just stop by the small storefront to peruse every type of cheesehead merchandise and try on the famous foam hat.

Take advantage of the Milwaukee River, which runs through town, by booking a kayak tour that also encompasses history about the city, or take a river cruise at night to see the artsy and illuminated city scene from a new perspective.

Highlight: The backroads in Amish Country exemplify a slower, peaceful pace of life with laundry on the line

The largest Amish population in the United States is in Ohio, in the northern part of the state, which is one of the most peaceful and memorable Midwest vacations that you can experience. It is one of the best places to visit in Ohio , which is why so many people who live in the state retreat to Amish Country when they need a break from city life.

Holmes County is a great place to base yourself in a quaint bed and breakfast in Millersburg, Charm, Berlin, Walnut Creek, or Sugarcreek.

Take a drive along the backcountry roads and see a slower pace of life as Amish families work in the fields and hang laundry on the line to dry. Take your time, as you will be sharing the road with horses and buggies carrying Amish families to the markets. Amish country is famous for its small shops that sell Amish-made furniture, baskets, and baked goods.

Depending on the time of the year, you can pick apples at local orchards, plan a horse-drawn sleigh ride in the winter on a family-run farm, or simply drive through the many connected villages to admire the Swiss and German influence on this quiet Amish settlement.

One of the most popular things to do in Amish Country is visit Bunker Hill Cheese or one of the many nearby cheese factories that offer tours and tastings. Go hungry because you will have plenty to sample as you experience one of the other delights of Amish Country: the food. Walnut Creek Cheese is a must-visit in Walnut Creek. While it serves as a local grocery store, it is a mecca of bulk food buying opportunities, from spices to cheese for low prices.

The best days to visit Amish country are any day but Sunday, as they strictly observe the day of rest, and nothing is open.

Highlight: The Branson Entertainment District that has over 120 live entertainment shows running for visitors.

Branson, Missouri is probably best known for its abundance of live entertainment. It makes for an exciting getaway and a great family-friendly destination in the heart of the Ozarks, with lots of pet-friendly hotels, so even the dog can come on vacation. Given the diversity of things to do in Branson , from outdoor excursions to live shows and attractions, you can split your time to get a well-rounded experience and flavor of the city.

Branson has more than 100 live entertainment options that cater to all age ranges, from comedy and dinner shows to vocal concerts and guest appearances by world-class musicians.

While the lively center of Branson is one of its main draws, your getaway should include getting outdoors in the Ozark Mountains, which surround the city. There are hundreds of miles of trails to hike, and you can camp under the stars, and fish at Table Rock Lake, Bull Shoals Lake, or Lake Taneycomo.

There are plenty of family-friendly attractions in the Highway 76 Entertainment District and the Silver Dollar City amusement park. Branson is an easy Midwest getaway to customize, with a range of options to fill your itinerary, and lodging in the area from motels and B&Bs to cabins, luxury resorts, and vacation condominiums.

Highlight: Stroll across "Bob," the 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge that connects two states

If your interest is getting away from it all, there is no better way to do that than with a visit to Nebraska, where the charm of stillness is its therapeutic gift. You can base yourself in Omaha, and plan day trips from here or just stay to enjoy the arts, tourist attractions, and hearty food that the city has to offer.

Plan to spend part of your getaway exploring all the things to do in Omaha , starting at the Lauritzen Gardens , which has 100 acres of botanical gardens and dedicated areas like a rose section and Victorian garden.

It makes sense to select a few of the historical sites and museums for some background on the location, like The Durham Museum , located inside Omaha's historic train depot.

You cannot visit Omaha without seeing the 3,000-foot pedestrian bridge just known as "Bob" for the bobbing sensation that you feel while walking across it. Bob is a fun stop because it's a centerpiece in Omaha and connects both Nebraska and Iowa, so you can stand in two states at the same time. Bob definitely offers great photos for social media.

Your getaway would not be complete without taking advantage of the spectacular stargazing that exists in Nebraska. The closest spot is at Zorinsky Lake Park , which has 1,000 acres of woods and low lights and is open year-round for stargazing. Another location is the Eugene T. Mahoney State Park, located just 30 minutes outside Omaha, where you do not even need a telescope to see major constellations in the dark skies outside the city.

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Exploring More of the Midwest: If you want to extend your vacation in any of the midwestern states, you can stay in any of our recommended cities and schedule additional time from there. There are some great places to visit in Ohio and Illinois , with attractions and activities to fill a vacation. If you are looking for some Midwest outdoor experiences, you might enjoy visiting waterfalls in Wisconsin , riding on mountain bike trails in Minnesota , and swimming near some of the great beaches in Michigan .

More on Illinois

BEST Places to Visit in the Midwest for Your Bucket List (2023)

Looking for the best places to visit in the Midwest in 2023? From the top cities to beautiful natural attractions, add these must see places to your Midwest USA bucket list .

Midwest Bucket List: Best Places to Visit in the Midwest

What States are in the Midwest?

The Midwest or the Midwestern United States consists of 12 states in the north central United States: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

Illinois Bucket List

• Explore Chicago. Maybe I’m biased because it is my hometown, but I consider Chicago the best place to visit in the Midwest. There are a lot of bucket list worthy things to do in Chicago including watching a baseball game at historic Wrigley Field, taking photos of The Bean at Millennium Park, taking an architecture river cruise and more! Read:  3 Days in Chicago: Weekend Itinerary and Best Things to Do in Chicago in the Summer
• Visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio and see homes he designed in Oak Park, a suburb of Chicago.
• Drive the Illinois portion of Route 66 .

• Explore Starved Rock State Park (one of the most popular attractions in Illinois) which has great hikes, stunning sandstone cliffs, canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
• Explore Matthiessen State Park which is less crowded as nearby Starved Rock State Park but just as beautiful with similar natural features such as canyons and beautiful waterfalls.
• Visit Galena, a charming and historic small town.
• Explore Shawnee National Forest in Southern Illinois. Explore the magnificent rock formations, cliffs and trails of Garden of the Gods , the best place to go hiking in Illinois with spectacular views.
• Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site , the largest pre-Columbian settlement north of Mexico and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Illinois.
• Visit Casey, a charming historic small town which is known for its huge roadside attractions (including 12 certified Guinness World Record World’s Largest attractions ).

Read: Best Things to Do in Illinois for more places to visit in Illinois.

Indiana Bucket List

• Visit the the capital city of Indianapolis.
• Explore Turkey Run State Park, one of the best state parks for hiking.
• Explore Brown County State Park, the largest state park in Indiana and one of the best places to see beautiful fall foliage.
• Visit Indiana Dunes, a national park along the southern shore of Lake Michigan with sandy beaches and tall dunes.

Iowa Bucket List

• See the covered bridges of Madison County .
• Have fun at the Iowa State Fair . The eleven day fair (Aug 10 – 20, 2023) has food, games, rides and competitions, livestock exhibitions, shows, concerts and more.
• Recreate the famous American Gothic painting in front of the original house in Eldon depicted in the painting. Visitors to the American Gothic House are provided with costumes to wear while the staff takes photos in front of the house.
• Experience the Tulip Festival in Pella, Iowa , every May in celebration of Pella’s Dutch heritage.

Kansas Bucket List

• Eat BBQ at the famous Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que  in Kansas City.
• Visit Oz Museum , in the small town of Wamego, which has one of the world’s largest privately owned collections of Oz memorabilia from the classic 1939 movie.
• Visit Monument Rocks to see unique chalk rock formations. It is off the beaten path in the middle of Kansas on private property (but the owners allow visitors).

Michigan Bucket List

• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore .
• Visit the historic Mackinac Island . The entire Victorian-themed island is listed as a National Historic Landmark and is car-free so visitors can only explore by foot, bicycle or horse drawn carriage.
• See tulips in Holland .
• Attend the National Cherry Festival in Traverse City.
• Explore the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
• Visit Frankenmuth, a cute city which is known for its Bavarian-style architecture. It is also home to the world’s largest christmas store which is open year round.

Minnesota Bucket List

• Visit Minneapolis-St Paul. Don’t miss the Minnehaha Regional Park (and the stunning Minnehaha Falls).
• Visit the Mall of America.
• Explore the beautiful North Shore of Lake Superior .
• Explore Voyageurs National Park , a US national park featuring tall bluffs, rock gardens, islands, bays, and several historic buildings and a great place for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Missouri Bucket List

• Enjoy the view from the top of the Gateway Arch in St. Louis.
• Play at the City Museum , a fun museum filled with miles of tunnels, a full cave system, slides, a circus, a large outdoor climbing space, and a roof with a Ferris Wheel and a bus hanging off its edge.
• Eat some of the best BBQ in the country and explore underrated Kansas City. Read : Weekend in Kansas City: The Perfect Itinerary (According to a Local!)
• Explore charming St. Charles , a colonial town located 30 minutes west of downtown St. Louis, full of antique shops and restaurants.
• See the Chain of Rocks Bridge , a landmark on the Historic Route 66, this bridge connects Illinois and Missouri over the mighty Mississippi River. The middle of the bridge has a unique 22 degree bend at the middle of the crossing.
• Have fun at the Lake of the Ozarks , a popular lake destination features more than 1,100 miles of shoreline and a top destination for boating, swimming, and other water sports (and the inspiration for the popular Netflix series Ozark ).
• Visit Branson.

Nebraska Bucket List

• See Carhedge . This quirky man made attraction built from 38 vintage American cars covered in gray spray paint is a replica of England’s famous Stonehenge.
• Visit Toadstool Geologic Park (referred to as the “badlands of Nebraska”) to see unusual rock formations and fossils.
• See Chimney Rock, an iconic landmark featured on the back of the Nebraska state quarter.  The Rock is a natural geologic formation that rises approximately 300 feet above its surroundings.
• Witness the Annual Sandhill Crane Migration in the spring.
• Visit Scotts Bluff National Monument which is composed of five rock formations and contains multiple bluffs.
• Visit Omaha, Nebraska’s largest city. Some cool things to see and do in Omaha include: shopping the Old Market, Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium and the Durham Museum.
• Visit Lincoln, the State Capitol and Nebraska’s second largest city.

North Dakota Bucket List

• Visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park .
• Visit the International Peace Garden which shares a border with Canada and celebrates the peace shared between the two countries.

Ohio Bucket List

• Visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame museum in Cleveland.
• Explore Hocking Hills State Park and view the beautiful sandstone formations and waterfalls.
• Explore Cuyahoga Valley National Park , the only national park in Ohio, which has waterfalls, hills, trails,  historic homes, bridges, and also a scenic train ride.

South Dakota Bucket List

• See Mount Rushmore National Memorial . This sculpture carved into the granite face of Mount Rushmore features the heads of four U.S. presidents.
• Explore Custer State Park .
• Explore Badlands National Park known for its spires and pinnacles.
• Explore Falls Park , a park full of small waterfalls in Sioux Falls.

Wisconsin Bucket List

• Visit Milwaukee.

• Vacation in Lake Geneva , a lakeside resort city known for its historic mansions built during the Gilded Age. Enjoy activities year round from spending time in the water and the beach in the summer to visiting the ice castles in the winter.
• Explore beautiful Door County .
• Explore the Apostle Islands and the sea caves on Lake Superior.

What are your favorite places to visit in the Midwest?

Need more travel bucket list inspiration? You might enjoy our other travel bucket lists:

• USA Travel Bucket List: 100+ Best Places to Visit
• Best Road Trips in the USA For Your Bucket List
• Ultimate Travel Bucket List: 100 Things to Do Before You Die

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Home » Best Of » 50 Unique Tourist Attractions In Mid-Atlantic States USA

50 Unique Tourist Attractions In Mid-Atlantic States USA

The Getaway Mavens take pride in finding the most obscure, insider’y, behind the scenes, romantic places in the Northeast United States. Herewith, find 50 Under the Radar Tourist Attractions in Mid-Atlantic States of Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia. Most are within a 3-5 hour drive of New York City.

Gape at the travel desk and land-claim cross that belonged to Christopher Columbus, discover some real Brigadoons, peer at George Washington’s actual dentures, and enjoy high tea in a mansion while a classical quartet plays. Dance the night away in the famed Spanish Ballroom, and so much more.

What you won’t find here are the typical national parks, beaches (e.g. the popular Virginia Beach), Museums of Art, the National Air and Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History, or other museums on the National Mall , because those are covered ad nauseam elsewhere.

What you will find are some of the quirkiest, most romantic tourist attractions in all the Mid-Atlantic states, (with the exception of West Virginia).

Table of Contents

Tourist Attractions In Pennsylvania

Weightlifting Hall of Fame @ York Barbells, York

Into bodybuilding or weight lifting? Industrial machines? Colonial taverns? There’s a museum for you in York PA !  

Considered the “Father of World Weightlifting” – which includes both powerlifting (as pertains to weight) and body-building (sculpting the muscles) – Bob Hoffman started a trend that was popularized by Arnold Schwarzenegger in the 1970s and still continues to this day.

You can delve right in at the Weightlifting Hall of Fame @ York Barbells . 

York Colonial Complex , York

A history buff? Find out how people got their news during in the 1700s by touring the York Colonial Complex , in the City of York PA, which includes The 1741 Golden Plough Tavern, the adjoining 1755 General Horatio Gates House, and the 1812 Barnett Bobb Log House, which was moved here in the 1960s.

Agricultural And Industrial Museum , York

The Tavern belonged to a family of German heritage who lived and worked there. On the first floor, the tavern room was as close as it got to network news, as travelers would eat, drink, and share gossip of the day.

Learn about our industrial heritage at the Agricultural And Industrial Museum where large-scale printing presses, overhead crane rails, a 1916 trolley car from downtown York, a working gristmill water wheel, and artifacts from many York factories can all be found.

It’s a wonderland for both kids and adults.

Columbus Chapel and Boal Museum, Boalsburg

Christopher Columbus’s artifacts from the time he Sailed the Ocean Blue in 1492 are kept in a vault in little ole Boalsburg. Amazingly, yes. At the Columbus Chapel and Boal Museum (20 minutes from State College, in Happy Valley PA ).

It almost seems too suspect to be true. The cross that Christopher Columbus used to claim unexplored land and his circa 1400s Admiral’s Desk in a vault in this tiny mid-PA town? And, slivers of the True Cross of Jesus, too?

Well, at least one of those has been authenticated, the other taken on faith. But both artifacts and much more have ended up in this small town location, the home of 8 generations of the Boal family.

Find out how this came to be on a tour of the Boal Museum and Chapel for a story that will blow you away. This is surely one of the most poignant tourist attractions in the Mid-Atlantic States.

American Philatelic Society Headquarters at the Match Factory

The center of everything stamps and stamp collecting is also within a 20-minute drive of State College PA at the American Philatelic Society Headquarters at the Match Factory in Bellefonte, a lovely “river runs through it” kind of Happy Valley PA town and center of the universe for all things philatelic.

“Philatelic” may be a mouthful of a word, but in essence, it concerns stamp collecting and postal history – with an emphasis on academic research. Who knew that the hobby some of us pursued as kids could be so exciting? The museum and research library are top-notch.

Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park , Spring Mills

Penn’s Cave and Wildlife Park is one of the only caves in the USA you tour completely by boat. You can’t miss ads and billboards for this attraction about a 25-minute drive from Penn State.

Touted as the “Only all-water Cavern AND Wildlife Park” in America: See It By Boat!” this show cave has been delighting tourists for 133 years.

All Sports Museum at Beaver Stadium , State College

The All Sports Museum at Beaver Stadium , at Penn State in State College PA will impress even those who dislike sports. I didn’t go to Penn State, and I don’t have much interest in sports.

But, I gamely went to Beaver Stadium, home of the Nittany Lions, and the second largest college stadium in the country (at 106,500 seats, second only to U of Michigan, with 109,000 seats), to check out the All Sports Museum.

I’m glad I did. The stadium itself is imposing, but the museum swept me up in the fierce devotion, positive striving, and competitive spirit of the “Blue and White.”

Arboretum at Penn State , State College

Also on campus, wander among the blooms and sculptures at the Arboretum at Penn State: H.O. Smith Botanic Gardens.

A copse of evergreen trees pierces the sky, and colorful sculptures and flowers beguile throughout this serene arboretum. No wonder it’s one of the most popular attractions on campus.

Gateway Clipper Fleet Tour, Pittsburgh

Learn about the heroes and legends of America’s first government rebellion – post Independence on a boat tour through Pittsburgh’s Gateway Clipper Fleet .

Book an hour sightseeing cruise on one of the several paddlewheel boats in the Gateway Clipper Fleet for an overview of Pittsburgh PA history, with a crash course on Pennsylvania History.

While plying the three rivers that run through Pittsburgh, a historian narrates the area’s history from 1681, when King Charles II granted 45,000 square miles of land to William Penn to modern times.

Randyland , Pittsburgh

Top contender for the quirkiest of tourist attractions in the Mid-Atlantic States, you’ll be sure to stare in wild-eyed wonder at this fantasia of a back, front, and side yard – Randyland .

On the same street and steps from The Mattress Factory, Randyland – the wildly colorful brainchild of Randy Gibson, whose goal was “to bring happiness to his neighborhood” – is such an ecstatic, iridescent, geometric, disjointed, engrossing, eclectically decorated home and property, it’s become a media darling.

Fred Rogers Center, Latrobe in Laurel Highlands PA

“Mr.” Fred Rodgers grew up about 1 ½ hours from Pittsburgh in this small town. Visit the museum devoted to him – Fred Rogers Center, on the campus of Saint Vincent College in Laurel Highlands PA .

An ordained minister, Fred Rogers considered his television show to be his ministry, leading one reviewer to write, “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood makes us feel safe, cared for, and valued.

Wherever Mr. Rogers is, so is a sanctuary.” The Fred Rogers Center was the prime resource for both the Documentary and the Tom Hanks film. (Yes, Hanks spent time here doing research).

It also features a small museum where you’ll see Rogers’ four different colored sweaters – knitted by his mother (that he alternated every day and couldn’t differentiate due to his red-green color blindness), puppets used on the show, plenty of photos, and quotes by Rogers and others about him.

Fred Rogers died in 2003. He was, as many said, “an island of peace.” We sure could use him now.

Elk County Visitor’s Center , Benezette

Get a glimpse of majestic creatures in the (protected) wild at the Elk County Visitor’s Center outside of Clearfield County in Benezette PA .

The best time to see these moose/deer mashups is at dusk and dawn. And, the best place to see them is through the Elk County Visitor’s Center’s picture windows or by walking the trails around open fields.

Bilger’s Rocks, Grampian PA 

Stumbling on Bilger’s Rocks in Clearfield County , a 20-acre natural wonder, is akin to discovering Angkor Wat Temple in the midst of a Cambodian jungle. Roots and trees shoot out from rock outcroppings, some overtaking them entirely.

This geological phenomenon was caused by “frost wedging” – where angular boulders broke off from the surrounding mountainside, creating narrow stone passageways, caves, and moss-covered stone chunks – some as high as a 5 story building and perfect for climbing.

If you’re seeking one of the really wildest, out-of-the-way tourist attractions in mid-Atlantic states, Bilger’s Rocks fits the bill.

Clearfield County Historical Society, Clearfield PA

We can learn a lot about forest management from the Native Americans who knew how to do it right. The Clearfield County Historical Society provides an overview.

Timber and logging were central to the wealth of Clearfield County, as this 1880 “One-Percenter” brick home, overlooking the Susquehanna River, attests.

White pine grew quickly and floated well on the river, so the logging company owner who owned this home could watch his product float – and his money grow – from the front porch.

Grice Clearfield Community Museum, Clearfield

See taxidermied animals juxtaposed with antique cars at Grice Clearfield Community Museum , Clearfield. Lynn “Scoot” Grice is very into ammo and autos. And animal mounts.

After serving overseas in WWII, he got into firearms, opening up his own gun store in Clearfield PA – the largest in the state – which provided him with the funds to start collecting his favorite automobiles.

Now, those with the same fascinations can see over 70 antique and classic cars with over 800 taxidermied animals mounted on walls and scattered around the collection.

Dubois (pronounced, “do-boys”) Area Historical Society

See the very first version of Budweiser Beer at Dubois Area Historical Society in Clearfield County PA . Tom Mix, Hollywood’s first “Western Star” was born and raised in Dubois PA. Though he lived in L.A., he came home to see his Ma on occasion.

There’s also a whole exhibit about Dubois Brewing Co.’s Budweiser Beer – the original Budweiser. Until Anheuser Busch purchased the name from this historic PA brewery.

Doolittle Station, Dubois

Plan a day, and perhaps a night at Doolittle Station. This compound of old train cars has been pulling travelers off I-80 in greater and greater numbers lately. That’s because owner and visionary, Dr. Rice has been collecting singularly iconic train cars.

He repurposes them as hotel rooms and restaurants – including a fire-oven pizza parlor, a brewery, an ice creamery, fine dining, and a 50’s diner. Stay overnight in Teddy Roosevelt’s travel Pullman or a renovated Circus Train.

Glasslight Studio, St. Peters Village

Explore this nearly hidden village and blow your own glass bowl at Glasslight Studio (about a 40-minute drive from West Chester in Chester County PA ).

Having had experience with half a dozen drop-in glassblowing classes in other studios around the country, I can honestly say that the full-day make-and-take class at Glasslight is the most hands-on, immersive experience you will ever have as a novice .

Up the street, the hidden burg of St. Peter’s Village is not gussied up for the tourist trade. But seekers of the off-the-beaten track will find much to love here – especially the rocky, tree-studded French Creek that both rages and meanders over and through boulders behind Main St.

It’s such a stunning scene that those who know how to find St. Peter’s compare it to Brigadoon. 

Yellow Springs PA

Into tiny little art villages? You’ll adore Yellow Springs in Chester County PA , which has both Civil War, Medical Hospital, and resort history, and is now strictly an arts enclave.

Dedicated to the visual arts, environment, and the village’s 300-year history, Historic Yellow Springs now hosts one of the largest Annual Art Shows in the region, showcasing the work of 209 artists over a 2-week period every spring.

Artisan Exchange at Matlack Industrial Center, West Chester PA

Purchase real food from real chefs at the Artisan Exchange  at Matlack Industrial Center. Have your friends told you that you should be selling your sublime gluten-free cheesecake to the masses? Are people constantly gushing about your version of the cake that your great-grandfathers baked for Irish royalty?

Corporate types with a passion for something other than office work – a product, an heirloom recipe – can build a business at the Artisan Exchange without risking their retirement nest egg. And fans of homemade, artisanal foodstuffs will find nirvana here.

There are currently 54 vendors who sell directly to the public every Saturday from 10-2. This Under the Radar Attraction is a great way to meet the person who made your food.

Tourist Attractions In Delaware

The Zwaanendael Museum, Lewes DE

The Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes DE was built in 1931 as a replica of the Hoorn City Hall, to commemorate the 300 th anniversary of this Dutch Whaling Settlement. As such, it’s a fanciful architectural anomaly in Lewes DE. Its mere appearance draws curious visitors.

But what’s inside is nearly as captivating. 

Air Mobility Command Museum @ Dover AFB, Dover

The Dover AFB in Dover DE is home to one of the best military museums in the country- the  Air Mobility Command Museum . What is Air Mobility, you ask?

Anything to do with the movement of troops, food, and equipment, or, as tour guide Jon Andrews quips, “You call, we haul.” It’s the only museum in the USA dedicated to airlift and refueling history.

Johnson Victrola Museum, Dover

Did you know that the saying “put a sock in it” derived from the only way that  Victor Talking Machine  users could dampen the volume on its speaker horn?

You’ll discover, everything you ever needed to know about Nipper the Dog, and tons more at the esoteric, hugely entertaining Johnson Victrola Museum on a tour that takes you through a 20’s era store to listen to music on original Victrola’s, and then on to comprehensive exhibits about its history.

John Dickinson Plantation National Historic Park, Dover

This Plantation, the boyhood home of John Dickinson, was Delaware’s first National Historic Landmark.

Dickinson stood out as the only Founding Father who refused to sign the Declaration of Independence. You’ll discover why at his “Homeplace” outside of downtown Dover.

Trap Pond State Park, Laurel

Not for nothing are Delaware State Parks celebrated for their beauty, management, and programming, and Trap Pond S tate Park in Laurel DE is among the best of them.

You may feel as if you’re in Florida and not really know why until you jump on a Pontoon Boat Tour which winds through the northernmost stand of bald cypress trees in the USA.

These trees, partially submerged throughout the rainwater-fed pond, form an otherworldly landscape at night. It’s a spookiness that’s amplified by the sounds of winged creatures (herons, owls, other things) that shriek and moan in the dark.

Tourist Attractions In Washington DC

National Museum of the American Indian

There’s no sugar-coating our abysmal history with Native Americans at the National Museum of the American Indian , a world-class museum of America’s indigenous people. 

Our initial contact with Native Americans was promising, represented by the “Two Row Wampum Belt” that embodied insight into how different Nations could co-exist.

In 1790, George Washington offered the Seneca Nation “security” for their lands, but a mere 40 years later, in 1830, “bloody, bloody” Andrew Jackson signed the Indian Removal Act, justifying the violent removal of over 67,000 American Indians from their land.

Still, today, Native Americans are attempting to return to the ideals of the Wampum Belt. Be sure to have lunch in  Mitsitam – the Native Foods Café on the main floor – featuring representative dishes from a variety of regions in the USA. It’s one of the best meals in town.

Tourist Attractions In Maryland 

College park aviation museum.

Amazingly, College Park Airport is the World’s Oldest Continuously Operating Airport (small planes only: call letters CGS)! 

In 1903, the Wright Brothers made history by gliding 852 feet in 59 seconds over Kitty Hawk in their newfangled flying machine. Four years later, they won a contract to sell several of these contraptions to the United States Government.

In 1909, the US Army summoned the brothers to provide flight instruction to our country’s first military aviators, right here at College Park Airfield.

The College Park Aviation Museum at the Airport illuminates the history of manned flight and is a must-see when in College Park in Prince Georges County MD.  

Ghost Ships, Mallows Bay, Nanjemoy

On the Potomac River, Mallows Bay is both a Maryland State Park and a graveyard for over a hundred ships from the Revolutionary War through today.

Most are wooden cargo ships constructed in haste during WWI. Obsolete as soon as they were built, the ships were intentionally burned to the waterline, scuttled, and then scavenged for iron.

According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, “the Ghost Fleet is the largest and most varied collection of visible historic shipwrecks in the Western Hemisphere.” And, you can kayak through it – either with guides or without. 

Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House & Museum, Waldorf MD

President Abraham Lincoln’s assassin slept here. Get all the details on a fascinating 1 ½ hour tour that begins with, “Let’s go back to April 15, 1865.”

A costumed docent at the Dr. Samuel A. Mudd House and Museum in Charles County MD , sets the stage, as she welcomes guests into the home of Dr. Samuel Mudd, just 31 years old with four young children, who took in an injured John Wilkes Booth right after Booth had killed the President, “and put him right on that sofa – that very one.” 

National Museum of Dentistry, Baltimore

There may be other Dentistry Museums (who knew?), but this one, the National Museum of Dentistry , opened in 1996 on the University of Maryland campus, in Baltimore MD .

It’s the largest such museum in the country, most likely due to this being the world’s first dental school. The Baltimore College of Dental Surgery debuted here in 1840.

The most prominent – and myth-busting – artifact here is an actual set of George Washington’s dentures. And they are not made out of wood, as countless teachers have taught us. 

Jewish Museum of Maryland, Baltimore 

In 1960, the Maryland Jewish Historical Society was formed to save the Lloyd Street Synagogue, the first built in Baltimore in 1845, to house the Orthodox Baltimore Hebrew Association.

The Synagogue is now part of the Jewish Museum of Maryland with its poignant permanent exhibit, “Voices of Lombard St.” Though specific to Jewish life in Baltimore, the exhibit speaks to a more universal immigrant experience. 

George Peabody Library, at Johns Hopkins University

You’ll find the impressive and beautiful George Peabody Library steps from the Washington Monument in the Mount Vernon District of Baltimore MD .

Its Visitor’s Center features rotating exhibits, from rare books to ancient maps. The main event, however, is the gorgeous library room itself. Step across the threshold, breathe it in, take a snap, and shhhhh.  Let the students work.

Tea With Chamber Music at Strathmore Mansion, N. Bethesda

Come to the 1899 Georgian Mansion on the Strathmore campus in N. Bethesda in Montgomery County MD, for Afternoon Tea : an indulgence rarely seen anymore.

Dining on scones with clotted cream, crustless cucumber sandwiches, and an abundance of sweets in the middle of the day is the ultimate guilty pleasure. And at just $32 per person, a great way to show your honey how cultured you are.

Glen Echo Park, Glen Echo MD

Take an art, music, or dance class at Glen Echo Park – formerly an amusement park in Montgomery County MD. In 2009, a $23 million renovation brought the facades and interiors of buildings back to their original boldly colorful, geometric Art Deco grandeur.

Following an expensive face-lift, the 1921 Dentzel Carousel spins once again and is the only ride left over from Glen Echo’s Amusement Park days.

The famous Spanish Ballroom, opened in 1933 with 7,500 square feet of dance space to accommodate 1,800 foxtrotters, still attracts thousands of people a week from all over the country. Amazingly, a modest fee buys you an hour of Swing lessons and three hours of dance time to a live band – one of the cheapest date nights ever.

National Museum of Health and Medicine, Silver Spring

Gaze upon the bullet that ended President Abe Lincoln’s life at the National Museum of Health and Medicine in Montgomery County MD . Founded by Surgeon General William A. Hammond in 1862, this institution highlighted the “Medical and surgical history of the War of the Rebellion.”

Now, the Department of Defense’s National Museum of Health and Medicine is tucked away in a modern building behind the U.S. Army Forest Glen Annex.

An array of glass cases hold a multitude of specimens: bone fragments with gunshot wounds, diseased appendages, medical tools, shrapnel, innovations in medical technology, and some pretty significant relics, including the bullet that killed Lincoln and several pieces of his skull removed during the autopsy. 

National Capital Trolley Museum

Delve into more than just the mile-long trolley ride at the National Capital Trolley Museum. Most people come to this Montgomery County MD museum for the mile-long streetcar ride – the hallmark of this institution – and then leave.

But there is much more to this museum than the “primary interpretive object outside.” Museum’s Director, Ken Rucker, chafes when parents come through the door making a “choo-choo” sound. “It should be ‘ding-ding’ or ‘clang-clang.’”

Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park, Sandy Spring

The walls literally talk at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park. The 1832 Stone Barn on this farm managed by the Montgomery Park System offers one of the most engaging ways to learn about slavery and the difficult decisions encountered by both the enslaved (to run or stay) and the slave owners (to free them or not).

Interactive exhibits highlight the area’s agricultural landscape, the Underground Railroad and the Quaker experience in Montgomery County, revealed through the lives of Woodlawn’s residents.

Tourist Attractions In Virginia

 NEON Arts District, Norfolk

Although Norfolk VA is best known as the world’s largest Naval Base, it has a growing artsy side as well. One that most outsiders don’t know about.

The NEON Arts Distric t (an acronym for the New Energy of Norfolk) houses 80+ works of public art. Once a blighted neighborhood, this area is now a magnet, not just for tourists, but also for restaurants and coffee shops (e.g. Café Milo), and of course, artists.

O. Winston Link Museum, Roanoke

The O. Winston Link Museum is part of the Historical Society of Western Virginia, located in Roanoke, and unique in its own right. The link was a celebrated New York photographer with a passion for the N&W Railroad and the people who worked for it.

As a labor of love, he documented the last five years of steam locomotives, from 1955 to May 9, 1960, in Vermeer-ish photographs known for their artfully lit night scenes.

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm, Wytheville VA

Beagle Ridge Herb Farm , in the southern VA town of Wytheville , is a lavender farm; a nature center; a gift shop; a craft cocktail destination. It’s a Butterfly Garden; and an event and education center. One thing Beagle Ridge Herb Farm is not is boring. But it takes a concerted effort to get there – off the main road, on 3.5 miles of dirt and gravel each way. It’s so worth it.

The National Sporting Library and Museum, Middleburg

Discover the genteel world of country sports at The National Sporting Library and Museum in Middleburg VA . What exactly is “Sporting” and how is it different from, say, Basketball, Baseball, and Football?

Well, explains one docent, this museum is all about “old country sports. If they did it in a Jane Austin novel, they’ve got exhibits about it here.”

Virginia Holocaust Museum, Richmond

Explore the depths of humanity at the  Virginia Holocaust Museum , in Richmond VA.

Warning – this is a tough hour for anyone who walks through the door of this excellent, compelling, somber, and oft-times horrifying museum, with a no, holds barred examination of an incomprehensible era in recent history.

A recent study showed that Americans are “forgetting about the Holocaust,” with a fifth of Millennials not even sure what it is. That is terrifying – and a reason that more people should visit.

Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia

The thought-provoking Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia , highlights Slavery, Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow, Brown Vs. Board of Ed, Civil Rights Era, and Black notables, in several spare rooms. Without clutter, individual stories shine through.

Lexington Carriage Tour, Lexington

There’s no better way to tour a hilly historic town than by a fancy carriage pulled by draft horses, and the Lexington Carriage Tour is the A #1 way to go in Lexington VA .

Sure, you’ll see some sights and learn something about the history of Lexington on your 45-minute excursion, but you’ll also fall in love with the hard-working equines, each with his or her own distinct personality.

Virginia Military Institute, Lexington VA

The Virginia Military Institute , a four-year undergraduate college, combines a full curriculum within a framework of military discipline emphasizing honor, integrity, and responsibility. Walk on original Lexington Brick sidewalks to the VMI Museum/Chapel  which provides visitors with a view of the Civil War from a Southern perspective. 

Washington & Lee University Chapel and Galleries

Stroll through the gated stone wall that divides VMI and  Washington & Lee University Robert E. Lee, served as school President from 1865 until his death in 1870.

Be sure to take a tour of Robert E. Lee’s final resting place, the Lee Chapel, a National Historic Site first built as an assembly hall for students. It’s now a tomb for the Lee Family and a museum for the rest of us.

Virginia Safari Park

Open your car windows and feed the wildlife at Virginia Safari Park in Natural Bridge VA (near Lexington ). I don’t usually write about such touristy places, but some are just too good to pass up.

For this particular “Safari Park” (and against all common sense), leave your car windows open, because you’ll be feeding the bison, elk, lama, deer, ostriches, and other animals that beg and stick their heads right into your car for buckets of feed purchased at the gate.

They slobber, they spray food pellets all over the place, and you’ll never laugh so hard. At least, I didn’t.

Dinosaur Kingdom II, Natural Bridge VA 

Hear tell about the Union’s “secret weapon” at Dinosaur Kingdom II  ( Back From Extinction).   

This strange, but weirdly fun and compelling walk-through theme park, drawn from the unbound mind of Mark Cline, re-imagines the Civil War as if the Union side used various dinosaurs as weapons of mass destruction against the South.

Ragged Branch Distillery, Charlottesville VA

Sip barrel-aged Virginia bourbon and scarf up fantastic burgers made with mash-fed beef at Ragged Branch Distillery in Charlottesville VA .

Here’s an interesting closed system for you to chew on: raise cows, open Virginia Straight Bourbon distillery, feed cows spent mash, discover that mash-fed cow beef is better than grass-fed beef, gain attention for both excellent bourbon and beef, invite the public to enjoy both, raise more cows, make more bourbon, repeat.

North American Sake Brewery, Charlottesville

If sake is more to your liking, plan an evening at North American Sake Brewery  in IX Art Park, – the only brewery devoted solely to sake in the state of Virginia.

Surprise, surprise, sake is actually brewed like beer. And, for those who are firm in their belief that sake is served warm, you’ll be in for a surprise. According to North American Sake Brewery owner, Andrew Centofante, “sake is traditionally served chilled.”

More Tourist Attractions In Northeast USA

• Best Northeast Getaways for Art Lovers
• 50 Historical Sites For The American History Buff

Malerie Yolen-Cohen is the Author of the cross-country travel guide, Stay On Route 6; Your Guide to All 3562 Miles of Transcontinental Route 6. She contributes frequently to Newsday, with credits in National Geographic Traveler, Ladies Home Journal, Yankee Magazine, Shape.com, Sierra Magazine, Porthole, Paddler, New England Boating, Huffington Post, and dozens of other publications. Malerie’s focus and specialty is Northeastern US, and she is constantly amazed by the caliber of restaurants and lodging in the unlikeliest places.

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Forget the Coasts: These Are the Best Vacation Spots in the Middle of the Country

Who says you need to hang by the water to have a good time? These landlocked states might not have much in terms of beaches, but they’re definitely not shy on jaw-dropping vistas, delicious food and fascinating art. Here, the nine best vacation spots in the central U.S.

The 25 Most Photogenic (and Breathtaking) Spots in America

Denver, Colorado

You may associate the Mile High City with ski resorts and winter activities, but it’s actually a great place to go no matter the season. There are plenty of trails to hike , paths to bike and walls to climb, but to be honest, we’re more excited by the food scene than anything else. The city’s numerous breweries are definitely worth a day-long bar crawl, but be sure not to fill up too much before heading to speakeasy Williams & Graham . (Tip: Enter the street-level bookshop and pull on the book Savoy  to get to the bar.) Eat like beatnik writers Jack Kerouac and Neal Cassady and grab a burger at My Brother’s Bar , where both men used to frequent. And of course, don't miss out on the Pop-Tart ice-cream sandwiches at Ice Cream Riot . We mean it.

Spending the day hiking, white-water rafting and riding around in ATVs sounds lovely—as long as we get to end the day with a long, hot shower and a proper bed to sleep in. Whether or not you’re a fan of the term, glamping is giving nature-shy folks the chance to enjoy the great outdoors without giving up those household comforts we hold so dear. Under Canvas’s new Moab location is the perfect place to set up home base as you explore the desert and neighboring Arches National Park and Canyonlands National Park . Just be sure to pack an extra battery for your digital camera—the starry skies and awe-inspiring red rock formations are just begging to be photographed.

The 7 Best Places to Go Glamping in the U.S.

Stillwater, Minnesota

Minnesota may not spring to mind as the perfect spot for a romantic literature-themed getaway, but it should. The Rivertown Inn , located just 30 miles outside Minneapolis in beautiful, historic Stillwater, boasts nine suites and rooms each named after a 19th-century literary figure, like Jane Austen and Lewis Carroll. After indulging in a decadent multi-course breakfast (freshly baked croissants, anyone?), climb aboard an old-fashioned trolley for an architectural tour, hike or bike easy trails in the area or just relax with a cup of coffee and check out the local artwork at Mara-Mi Studio and Cafe .

Omaha, Nebraska

Fun fact: This bustling city is home to the world’s largest indoor desert and the largest indoor rainforest in North America. Who knew? The Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium houses over 960 different species and has consistently been ranked one of the best zoos in the world. If spending your afternoon observing baby sea lions and giraffes isn’t really your thing, Omaha is also home to the stunning Lauritzen Gardens  and  Joslyn Art Museum and has a surprisingly robust indie music scene .

Las Vegas, Nevada

Yes, you could spend your time in Sin City partying by the pool and testing your luck at the slot machines, but why not try something a little more cultured? Las Vegas is actually home to some of the most unique art exhibitions in the country. The Neon Boneyard offers a vast collection of neon signs from some of the city's most historic spots spread across two acres, while the Cosmopolitan hotel hosts an ever-changing lineup of contemporary art including an extensive graffiti installation. The newest addition to the Vegas art scene is Ugo Rondinone’s Seven Magic Mountains . The brightly colored stone towers stand in stark contrast with the barren desert backdrop, meaning even the most amateur photographer will come away with truly incredible Instagram pics.

Canton, Ohio

Ah yes, Ohio, the wine capital of the world. OK, not really, but Canton’s Gervasi Vineyard did take home seven medals at the 2016 Finger Lakes International Wine Competition, including the award for best Cabernet Sauvignon. Besides wine tastings, guests can participate in personalized yoga sessions, hit a few balls on the Glenmoor Country Club golf course or take seasonal cooking classes. If you get sick of the gorgeous rolling hills and rows of twisting vines (hilarious), Cleveland is only an hour’s drive to the north, where you’ll find more city-centric activities to partake in.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

This secluded island in the middle of Lake Superior is the perfect getaway for anyone trying to escape the real world for a few days. Once you make your way across the water, you’ll find 165 miles of trails to explore with gorgeous views all along the way. If water activities are more your thing, canoes and kayaks are available to rent, while those with their own scuba equipment will find the most intact collection of shipwrecks in the National Park Service. If you plan to stay overnight, you’ll need to register for a permit and book a stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge and Windigo Camper Cabins if you don’t want to spend the night in a tent.

The 8 Most Breathtaking National Parks in America

Flint Hills And Topeka, Kansas

Life in Kansas isn’t all farming the fields and dodging Oz-transporting tornadoes. (To prove it, residents will gladly point you in the direction of the brand-new Evel Knievel Thrill Show and Museum and local hipster hot spot Blind Tiger Brewery and Restaurant .) But if what you seek is a taste of life on the prairie, you definitely won’t leave disappointed. See what life was like for explorers on the Oregon Trail with a stop at the Ward-Meade Historic Site for an old town tour before heading out to the Flint Hills Discovery Center. There you’ll see the largest intact swath of tallgrass prairie land left in North America with nearly 10,000 square miles of beautiful rolling hills. The unparalleled sunrises and sunsets will make you wonder why Dorothy ever wanted to leave in the first place.

Whitefish, Montana

We just can't picture Montana without images of cattle drives and cowboys popping into our heads. And that's exactly what guests will find at Bar W Guest Ranch . Fans of The Bachelor might recognize this home on the range from watching Sean Lowe’s season, during which he and two of the eligible bachelorettes enjoyed a two-on-one date at the estate. At this dreamy dude ranch (complete with cattle grazing in the fields), guests can ride horses over 3,000 acres of land and even try their hand at lassoing a young buck. Come nightfall, you'll be shocked by just how many dazzling stars you can see once you escape the metropolitan lights. The ranch also offers ladies-only weeks throughout the year for girls' trips, mother-daughter bonding and bachelorette parties, so round up your squad.

The 8 Most Beautiful Places to Go Stargazing in the U.S.

The Ultimate Mid-Atlantic Bucket List

North America , United States

The Mid-Atlantic region of the United States – Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Virginia, Washington, D.C., and West Virginia – is home to some of the country’s top historic and cultural sites . This bucket list contains everything from New York City’s most famous locations to the spot where the Declaration of Independence was signed to the US Capitol Building to whitewater rafting. Along the way you’ll see fantastic scenery, try some very good food, and maybe just learn a thing or two about American history. If you’re looking for Mid-Atlantic vacation ideas, this list has everything you could dream of.

• 1.1 Visit beautiful Cape Henlopen
• 1.2 See the site where Delaware became the first state
• 2.1 Camp on the beach with wild horses
• 2.2 Eat some famous Maryland crab cakes
• 2.3 Explore the marine life, history, and food of the Inner Harbor
• 3.1 Explore the famous Atlantic City Boardwalk
• 3.2 Visit Thomas Edison National Historic Park
• 4.1 Visit the Statue of Liberty in New York Harbor
• 4.2 Bike through iconic Central Park
• 4.3 See a show on Broadway
• 4.4 Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge
• 4.5 Explore New York City’s most famous art museums
• 4.6 Get up close and personal with Niagara Falls
• 4.7 Visit the Baseball Hall of Fame
• 4.8 Tour the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier
• 4.9 Visit Women’s Rights National Historic Park
• 5.1 See where the Declaration of Independence was signed
• 5.2 Hike the beautiful waterfalls of Ricketts Glen
• 5.3 Tour historic Eastern State Penitentiary
• 5.4 Enjoy a nature break at the Delaware Water Gap
• 5.5 Satisfy your sweet tooth at Hersheypark
• 5.6 Get a taste of the Great Lakes at Presque Isle
• 5.7 Have some hands-on fun at the Carnegie Science Center
• 6.1 Visit Arlington National Cemetery
• 6.2 Take a scenic drive through Shenandoah National Park
• 6.3 See where the final battle of the American Revolution was fought
• 6.4 Visit a living history museum in Colonial Williamsburg
• 6.5 See marine life on a dolphin watching cruise
• 7.1 Visit the world class museums of the Smithsonian Institution
• 7.2 Tour the United States Capitol Building
• 7.3 See the Declaration of Independence and Constitution in person
• 7.4 Explore the monuments at the National Mall
• 7.5 See the cherry blossoms in the spring
• 8.1 Experience the legendary white water rafting and scenery at New River Gorge
• 8.2 Visit Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

Note: This post contains affiliate links, and should you choose to make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Things to do in Delaware

Visit beautiful cape henlopen.

Lewes, Delaware

By Tara from Back Road Ramblers

Cape Henlopen State Park is located on the Atlantic coast in Lewes, Delaware. This gem of a park encompasses 5,193 acres of sandy beaches, expansive marshland, woodland trails, and historic sites .  The Cape Henlopen Beaches are some of the most popular in the state, but there is way more to do than swim in the ocean or relax on the beach. You could spend a week here and not run out of amazing things to do.

If you do want to maximize your time on the shore, you’ll be impressed with Cape Henlopen’s beaches. There’s a swimming beach, a special surfing beach, a beach just for fishing, and a lovely bayside beach with quiet water for the families with littles. Free bike rentals make it easy to explore this huge park, and the Pinelands Nature Trail is a lovely way to spend the afternoon. You can also climb the observation tower at sunrise, rent kayaks for frolicking in the bay, visit the World War II bunkers at Fort Miles, or visit the nature center and aquarium. Tent and RV camping is available, as well as cute camping cabins for those who don’t want to rough it.

Bottom line? Cape Henlopen State Park is as lovely as any on the Atlantic Coast, and there’s plenty of room to spread out and explore. Find out more on the official site .

See the site where Delaware became the first state

Dover, Delaware

Delaware is known as the First State because it was – you guessed it – the first state to ratify the United States constitution in 1787. After it was written and signed in Philadelphia, it was presented to the states for ratification. Delaware had its convention at the Golden Fleece Tavern on the historic Green and as its delegates were the first to ratify the new Constitution , it officially became the first of the United States. The Green was also the site where the Declaration of Independence was first read aloud to the citizens of Delaware.

The Green and a few historic buildings are now preserved as part of First State National Historic Park , one of the newest National Park Service sites in the country. The park seeks to preserve Delaware’s colonial history, and also includes sites in Wilmington, New Castle, and Lewes.

Things to do in Maryland

Camp on the beach with wild horses.

Assateague Island, Maryland

Photo by Taima from Poor in a Private Plane

So you have decided to go on a camping trip. Except you are not in the woods. You are on the beach. And you are waking up to the sound of wild horses playing in the ocean as the sun rises. This is Assateague Island. The 37-mile barrier island, which is located in both Maryland and Virginia, is a hidden gem and must visit. It is easy enough to make a day trip to the island however spending a few days camping out on the beach is an experience that everyone should try at least once.

Camping on Assateague Island is only permitted on the Maryland side of the Island. There are two campgrounds to choose from. One is managed by the State of Maryland while the other is managed by the Assateague Island National Seashore.  The state side offers warm showers and flushable toilets. The national side only has cold water showers (which are great in the summer), however it is less crowded.

Whether you are visiting for the day or staying the weekend, there is so much to see and do on the Island. You can spend a lazy day on the beach, go clamming or crabbing on the bay, explore miles of hiking trails, go kayaking on the bay. And the best part: take in the beauty of the wild horses that call Assateague Island home.

Assateague Island is a magical place. If you are looking for an alternative to a traditional beach holiday, pack up your camping gear and head to this beach. Find out more on the park’s official site .

By Taima from Poor in a Private Plane

Eat some famous Maryland crab cakes

Various locations in Maryland

Photo by Stella Jane from Around the World in 24 Hours

Maryland is a small state, but its residents can still find plenty to disagree about. After all, it was famously divided during The Civil War, and the state flag shows the colors of both the Union and Confederate sympathizers. But one thing that does not divide Marylanders is their love of crab cakes. It is traditional to use blue crab meat because the blue crabs are so abundant in Maryland’s Chesapeake Bay. According to many sources, the first person to associate the crab cake with Maryland in print was Crosby Gaige, who put a recipe for “Baltimore Crab Cakes” in 1930s New York World’s Fair Cookbook. But of course you can get proper Maryland crab cakes anywhere in the state, not just Baltimore.

My favorite place to get a crab cake is O’Leary’s Seafood in Annapolis because their cakes have very little breading so you get the full flavor of the fresh crab. But if you’re looking for a fun twist on the tradition, try the crab pretzel at Davis’ Pub in Annapolis’s neighbor, the Maritime Republic of Eastport, Maryland. Enjoy your crab cakes however you like – just don’t forget the Old Bay Seasoning !

By Stella Jane from  Around the World in 24 Hours

Explore the marine life, history, and food of the Inner Harbor

Baltimore, Maryland

One of my favorite places in the Mid-Atlantic has to be the Inner Harbor of Baltimore, Maryland. And this may surprise you since many people hear about Baltimore and automatically think of dirt, grime, and urban decay. However, if you look past Baltimore’s less than stellar reputation, you’ll find an enchanting port city that is just waiting be explored. Walking through Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, not only will you find an assortment of lively restaurants and bars where you can have an authentic, Old Bay seasoned, Maryland crab feast, but you’ll see a totally modern, seven story aquarium that is home to over 20,000 different animals. Looking out from the top floor of the aquarium, you might even see some historic ships floating in the harbor that you can visit and explore, like the famed USS Constellation which was built in 1797.

However, if history is not your thing, you can also head over to Camden Yards for an Orioles baseball game or wander over to the Walters and explore over 55 centuries of art that includes everything from medieval weaponry to classic French paintings. So if you’re looking for a fun and exciting place to visit in the Mid-Atlantic, then the Inner Harbor is the perfect choice. And if you have time, be sure to stop by Miss Shirley’s for brunch and taste some of the best Southern Comfort food that I have ever had in my life (Miss Shirley’s has been featured on the Food Network so you know it’s good!).

By Kelly from Girl With the Passport

Things to do in New Jersey

Explore the famous atlantic city boardwalk.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

Photo by Harmony from Momma to Go

There is nothing more Jersey Shore iconic than a beachside boardwalk stroll . And my favorite seaside NJ town is by far Atlantic City! A walk down the famous Atlantic City boardwalk truly has something for everyone! Kids will love the Steel Pier amusement park, the central pier go-karts or playing games at one of the boardwalk arcades! For a cheap meal, grab a slice of pizza or an ice cream as you stroll. Looking to splurge? Kids will love a meal at the Sugar Factory or the Rainforest Café located right on the Boardwalk! Adults will love the Atlantic City beach, either sunning on the sand, or visiting one of the many beachside bars. Along the boardwalk, you can shop at the kitschy touristy shops or pop into the shops at Playground Pier. On a nice day, hit up the new Biergarten for craft brews and lawn games. And of course, try your luck in one of the many casinos! After all, that’s why Atlantic City is known as America’s Playground .

By Harmony from Momma to Go

Visit Thomas Edison National Historic Park

West Orange, New Jersey

Photo by Augusta from Mini Me Explorer

I went to Thomas Edison National Historic Park while on holiday in New Jersey visiting friends. I thought I was going to see the place where the light bulb was born, and I came out of the park learning that Edison had been the “father” of 1092 other patented inventions . I expected one lab, and discovered an area with dozens of buildings – all labs – where over 200 scientists and researchers had worked, all at the same time. As if this was not enough, I also found out that the world owes the kinetoscope (the precursor of the projector) and the first movie studio (the Black Maria) to Edison, indeed.

Individual visits are generally not possible, nor do they make sense. The best thing to do is to get yourself a schedule of the guided tours of the individual buildings , and plan your visit accordingly so as not to miss what interests you most. At the end of the day, I overheard an excited 6-year-old-child (my son!) telling his father on the phone: “Today I have seen a factory where inventions are made!”

Find out more at the NPS website .

By Augusta from Mini Me Explorer

Things to do in New York

Visit the statue of liberty in new york harbor.

New York, New York

The Statue of Liberty may well be the United States’ most iconic landmark , with its torch held high in New York Harbor. Taking a boat ride out to Liberty Island to visit it is one of the top things to do in New York City. Ferry service departs from Battery Park or from New Jersey, and includes stops at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Tickets to visit the Statue’s crown are available, but you’ll want to book them as soon as possible as they do sell out early – especially on weekends and peak travel seasons. If you can’t snag a crown ticket, try for a pedestal one. These are easier to get and while you don’t get to go all the way up to the top, you can still explore the base and visit the museum housed within it. If you don’t have time in your schedule to pay a visit, you can still see the Statue of Liberty from New York City, but you’ll want binoculars or a good camera zoom lens to get a close up look.

Ellis Island played a crucial part in the immigration experience of the early 20th century. In fact, my own great-grandparents passed through the halls there when they arrived from their various locations in Eastern Europe. It was incredible to wander through the Great Hall and wonder what must have been going through their minds as they waited for their turn at the immigration counter. The buildings on Ellis Island also include a small museum of immigration. There are several computers that you can use to do genealogy research, though their databases can be accessed online as well. Hard hat tours are also offered that take visitors through some of the unrestored buildings, including the medical facility on the island.

Find out more about the two islands on the National Park website  and be sure to check out my NYC weekend itinerary.

Bike through iconic Central Park

Photo by Anisa from Two Traveling Texans

Central Park is an oasis in the middle of the concrete jungle better known as Manhattan. Most people don’t realize how big it is or how much it has to offer. The best way to see the most of the Park in a short period of time is to bike around it. I’ve had so many great memories riding a bike in Central Park , it should definitely be on your bucket list. There are several places close to Central Park where you can rent a bike .

I recommend following the 6-mile loop around the Park .  There are a few tough hills at the northern end of the park but the rest of the path is gentle. It’s worth the effort because you will pass by the Mall, Loeb Boathouse, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Cleopatra’s Needle, Harlem Meer, the Pool, the tennis center, the Reservoir, the Lake, and Sheep Meadow. Plus, Central Park has interesting people-watching and Instagram-worthy spots everywhere. It’s best to go early in the day to avoid the crowds.

By Anisa from Two Traveling Texans

Book a bike tour here!

See a show on Broadway

Broadway is the epicenter of the American theater scene , and while it’s not exactly a budget-friendly option for your visit to New York, it’s well worth a little splurge to catch one of the shows. There are several theaters in the area with performances of new shows, classics, and Disney stories. You can catch evening shows during the week, and matinees and evening shows on the weekends.

For popular shows like Hamilton, you’ll need to book your tickets well in advance if you have your heart set on a seat. If your plans are more flexible or you’re looking for a way to save some money, you can buy same-day tickets at the TKTS stands in New York City. The most popular one is right in Times Square – Don’t let the long line put you off. We thought we were going to be waiting for an eternity, but there are so many counters that the wait flew by. – and you can get big discounts for select shows. Check the boards for available show times and the discounts being offered.

You can pre-book tickets to shows like Aladdin, Phantom of the Opera, Chicago, and more on Viator or check out a behind the scenes tour of Disney on Broadway !

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Photo courtesy of Constance from The Adventures of Panda Bear

Walking along the Brooklyn Bridge is just about the best urban hike ever! The approximately 1.1 mile walk between Manhattan and Brooklyn boasts amazing views of New York City. For the best views, I recommend starting from Brooklyn and walking to Manhattan because you’ll get to see the skyline from beginning to end. The walk typically takes about 25 minutes, but it can vary depending on the amount of time you spend taking photos.

Throughout your walk, you’ll be able to see many sights of NYC, from Manhattan to the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, and Brooklyn Bridge Park. Keep in mind that locals still use the bridge for commuting purposes – they will be walking, running, and even biking across the bridge. It’s helpful (and safer) to stay off the bike path, except when passing, and don’t forget to look both ways!

Some of the best photo-ops are located at the tower on the Brooklyn side, there the walkway widens and you’ll have great views of downtown Manhattan along with the tower. There are also plaques on the tower that talk about its history and construction. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in the New York City area, both the bridge itself as well as the views from the bridge.

See more about New York City by Constance at The Adventures of Panda Bear

Explore New York City’s most famous art museums

New York is surely on top of many travelers U.S. bucket lists and within New York City, one of the things you absolutely cannot miss is the collection of famous art museums! While New York has at least 20 art museums, two of the most famous are definite can’t-miss items when you visit. Of course, one of those is the  Metropolitan Museum of Art , the largest art museum in the entire United States and one of the most visited art museums in the world with over 7 million annual visitors. I lived in New York for 9 years and visited the Met often; each time, I discovered new rooms full of never-before-seen art. This museum has everything, from Ancient Greek urns to reconstructed Egyptian temples to ornate 18th century portraits and even pop art and modernist works. The trick is not to try to see it all but rather to pick a few areas of interest and explore those more deeply. With over 2 million works in the permanent collection, it is literally impossible to see everything in a day.

Another museum you can’t miss in New York is the Museum of Modern Art , more commonly called the MoMA. Here, you can find some of the most important works of modern art in the entire world , such as Vincent van Gogh’s Starry Night and plenty of works by Andy Warhol, Roy Liechtenstein, Henri Matisse, and other influential artists. Between those two museums, you’ll definitely be getting your culture fix in New York.

See more New York City tips by Allison at Eternal Arrival

Get up close and personal with Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls, New York

The waterfalls collectively known as Niagara Falls span the Niagara River marking the international border between the United States and Canada. While the Canadians may have gotten the more impressive Horseshoe Falls and the better view, the American side gives you a chance to get closer to the roaring water and look straight down from the brink of the falls in Niagara Falls State Park. A visit to Goat Island – the island that divides the Canadian and American falls – allows you to get jaw-droppingly close to the waterfalls.

You can drive to the island, but I prefer to park on the mainland and walk across the bridge to enjoy the sight of the water flowing over rapids on its way to Bridal Veil and the American Falls. From Goat Island, you can take a pathway to Luna island – the even tinier island that divides the two waterfalls on the American side. From the viewing platform here, you can look straight down at the rocks below and hear the roar of the water as it slams into them. Terrapin Point is right next to the bigger and more powerful Horseshoe Falls, and you can get an incredible sense of the sheer power of them standing at the viewing platform there. Further upstream, you can cross a series of foot bridges to visit the Three Sisters Islands to watch the water picking up speed as it rushes toward the upcoming waterfall.

If you want some more ways to experience the series of waterfalls, the famous Maid of the Mist boat leaves from a dock in the park. You can also visit the Cave of the Winds that will take you to the base of the American falls and give you a chance to look right up at the thundering water. If you’d rather stay inside, check out the restaurant in the state park that will give you a view of the rushing water while you dine.

Find our more about visiting Niagara Falls State Park here!

Visit the Baseball Hall of Fame

Cooperstown, New York

Photo by Sue from Travel for Life Now

If you love baseball or don’t know anything about the game, the Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum should be on your bucket list. It is really two places—the Hall of Fame and the Museum. The Hall of Fame has plaques for 333 baseball players elected to the Hall of Fame . The gallery is impressive from the first class in 1936 – Babe Ruth and Ty Cob – to the most recent inductees. The Museum is chock full of exhibits, uniforms, videos and everything else connected to the game. You can watch Lou Gehrig’s “Luckiest Man Alive” speech or hear Babe Ruth talking about Baseball among other things. The museum also includes exhibits on the Negro Leagues and Women in Baseball. You can easily spend the entire day at the Museum. The Museum is open year-round. The spring and fall are less crowded. The summer brings 100,000 of people to the Hall of Fame. If you plan ahead, Induction Weekend is an amazing time to go. The ceremonies are open to the public and usually take place the 3rd or 4th weekend in July.

See more about the Baseball Hall of Fame by Sue at Travel for Life Now

Tour the USS Intrepid aircraft carrier

Photo by Lee from One Trip at a Time

Moored on the western side of Manhattan is the USS Intrepid , a former US Navy aircraft carrier which is now a museum. Commissioned in 1943, the Essex class carrier saw active service in World War II and served the Navy for almost 30 years until it was decommissioned in 1974.

Today, the carrier is the centerpiece of a museum which allows you to explore what life would have been like on the ship. You can visit the bridge for an impressive view of the flight deck, crew quarters, the ready room and the Hangar deck where aircraft were stored when not being used. An impressive Lego model of the ship can be found here too.

On the flight deck are several period aircraft such as the F14 Tomcat like Tom Cruise flew in Top Gun , a Harrier Jumpjet and the unbelievably fast Blackbird. Towards the back of the flight deck is a pavilion which contains the original prototype of the space shuttle Enterprise , whilst moored alongside is the USS Growler guided missile submarine. The final attraction is the holder of the world’s fastest passenger crossing of the Atlantic – British Airways Concorde G-BOAD which crossed from New York to London in just 2 hours, 52 minutes and 59 seconds.

See more about visiting NYC by Lee at One Trip at a Time

Visit Women’s Rights National Historic Park

Seneca Falls, New York

As a history nerd and a feminist, Women’s Rights National Historic Park had long been on my list of places to visit. It was the site of the Seneca Falls Convention in 1848 , most famous for the Declaration of Sentiments, a document based off of the Declaration of Independence that asserted the radical notion that women were entitled to rights too. It took another several decades to get the vote, but in many ways the events at Seneca Falls helped push things along. Modern day visitors can tour a museum dedicated to women’s rights throughout the years, from the early days through the modern women’s movement. The Wesleyan Chapel where the actual convention was held underwent many changes throughout the years, but it’s partially preserved and can be toured. Elizabeth Cady Stanton’s house is located nearby and can be visited seasonally.

Things to do in Pennsylvania

See where the declaration of independence was signed.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Visiting the spot where the Declaration of Independence was debated and signed is an essential experience in Philadelphia. The Founding Fathers met in this small building, originally constructed to serve as the state capitol, to set in motion the events leading to the American Revolution. Several years later, long after the war had been won, delegates returned to Independence Hall to participate in the Constitutional Convention, which drafted the US Constitution in 1787. These important documents not only formed the basis of government in the United States to this day, but have influenced democracies in many other nations. Visitors can take a free guided tour of the building . Tickets are free if obtained on the day of the tour – they’re required from March-December. If you choose to order ahead of time , there’s a $1 handling fee. Just across the street from Independence Hall, you’ll find an exhibition center that displays the famous Liberty Bell and has other information about the Revolutionary period. After visiting the historic park, check out some of the other important colonial buildings in the area, including the City Tavern, an old restaurant serving old-fashioned American cuisine that was popular with the Founding Fathers.

Hike the beautiful waterfalls of Ricketts Glen

Northeastern Pennsylvania

Spanning more than 13000 acres, Ricketts Glen State Park (it very nearly became a National Park in the 1930s) is home to 24 significant waterfalls located in three different glens, and 26 miles of hiking trails, you can spend a whole weekend getaway just enjoying the park’s natural beauty. The Falls Trail, a 7.2-mile long trail which takes hikers past many of the waterfalls, is ranked as one of the best day hikes on the East Coast . There are several shorter and/or less difficult trails available as well. Don’t miss Ganoga Falls, the tallest waterfall in the park during your visit. It’s accessed via the 2.8-mile long Ganoga View Trail. If relaxing is more your thing, you can hang out at the beach along Lake Jean, which was created by a dam. Boating and fishing are also popular on the lake. The park also features cabins to rent and numerous campsites, some of which are in the campground along the shore of Lake Jean.

Tour historic Eastern State Penitentiary

Photo by Heather from Trimm Travels

There were numerous places on my list I wanted to see when I visited Philadelphia. Although many of these were directly related to the birth of America, some others included the Eastern State Penitentiary.

There were several factors that drew me into wanting to visit the penitentiary. A few of these were that it was once the world’s most famous, most expensive prison and one of its notorious prisoners was none other than Al “Scarface” Capone . Perhaps the biggest draw? The prison is considered haunted. While I don’t know for sure that it is haunted, I can tell you that walking through the Eastern State Penitentiary was quite eerie and invoked a sense of “realism.” I don’t know exactly how to explain this, but let’s just say that I imagine it did a good job of what a penitentiary was supposed to do: inspire penitence in its prisoners.

The part of the prison I was most fascinated with was Cellblock 3 or the Hospital Block. I was there about a month before they opened the block to public tours so this was all I could see. Now, you can tour the Hospital Block and apparently, it leaves one with a heightened sense of what I call “realism”.

TIPS: We went on a Sunday morning in the spring and crowds weren’t even remotely a problem. It’s walkable from the city center, although a large portion on the way to the prison is uphill. So if this is a problem, I recommend Ubering to the prison and walking downhill on the way back! If you’re planning a Philly trip, check out my  Best Time to Visit Philadelphia + 25 Places to See in 4 Days !

By Heather from Trimm Travels

Enjoy a nature break at the Delaware Water Gap

Bushkill, Pennsylvania

If you like hiking, waterfalls, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, small town charm, antiques, farm stands or just being in nature, the Delaware Water Gap needs to be on your bucket list. The Gap is 200 miles long and is essentially where the Delaware River cuts through the Blue Mountains in Pennsylvania and the Kittatiny Ridge in New Jersey. My favorite place to stay in the Gap is Milford, PA. Milford is right on the Delaware River with good restaurants, hotels and B&Bs. A few miles from town, you can go canoeing or kayaking on the Delaware. Dingmans Falls, Raymondskill Falls, Bushkill Falls are all nearby. The McDade Trail is just outside of town and runs 33 miles runs along a ridge right above the Delaware. There are a number of Native American archeological sites in this area as well. Raymondskill is a great place to take children for fossil hunting. Bring your bathing suit in the summer—there are some great places for swimming in the Gap.

By Sue from Travel for Life Now

Satisfy your sweet tooth at Hersheypark

Hershey, Pennsylvania

For anyone with a sweet tooth, visiting Hershey, Pennsylvania is an absolute must-do. Their chocolate bars and other candies – I’m a Reese’s Cup girl, myself – have made many a person drool over the decades. You can visit the spot where it all started in eastern Pennsylvania and get up close to the chocolate-making process. The Hershey’s Chocolate World (the name itself sounds like heaven) offers a free ride-through tour that shows how their chocolate is made. The best part? You’ll get a free candy bar as you exit. I definitely rode twice. You can also dine in their food court, which features a few subtly chocolate-y dishes in addition to more standard American food and shop in a massive candy-themed gift shop. I’d be lying if I said my eyes didn’t get as big as saucers when I saw the wall of Reese’s Cups. There are also paid experiences, like designing your own custom bar of chocolate with fillings of your choice and its own special packaging. My candy bar was delicious, but sadly, “Kris’ Chocolate” doesn’t look quite as good on a label as the iconic HERSHEY’S.

If thrills are your thing, you can also check out Hersheypark right next door. The amusement park contains all kinds of family-friendly rides and a few good roller coasters as well. My favorite is Storm Runner, a speedy, looping coaster. You can also meet and take photos with life-sized candy bars, so if you’ve ever dreamed of hugging a Reese’s Cup, this is the place for you.

Get a taste of the Great Lakes at Presque Isle

Erie, Pennsylvania

Photo by Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit

Nestled along the shores on the smallest of the Great Lakes (smallest in volume but not in stature!) lies the town of Erie, Pennsylvania. Here you’ll find their brilliant escape to nature known as Presque Isle State Park . Located a short 15 minutes from the downtown core, this 3,200-acre peninsula is a must-see. Offering a number of recreational activities, you can enjoy the incredible sandy beaches and their views of Lake Erie, try your hand at fishing, go hiking and more in the warmer months. When the frost arrives, grab your skates, strap on some snowshoes or grab your cross-country skis for some winter fun. Be sure to stop at the Tom Ridge Environmental Centre as well as this state-of-the-art facility dives into the unique history of Presque Isle State Park along with its diverse ecosystems, wildlife and more. Whether you’re vacationing in town or just passing through, it’s definitely not to be missed! See more about the park on their official website .

By Lindsay from I’ve Been Bit

Have some hands-on fun at the Carnegie Science Center

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

The Carnegie Science Center is highly regarded as one of the top science museums in the country . Visiting it is one of the best things to do in Pittsburgh with kids or without. There are several hands-on exhibits that introduce visitors to the many branches of science, and it’s an absolute blast. I loved the astronaut experience where you get hooked up in a harness and try to perform tasks while at simulated zero G. Space fans will also love the replica of parts of the International Space Station. There’s even a whole area the size of a gymnasium devoted to learning through motion and sports . It allows you to do fun, active things like a high ropes course, reaction time tests, and bat speed measurements with tie-ins to local professional teams. Whichever activities you decide to try while you’re there, you’ll definitely leave with a smile on your face and a little bit more knowledge in your brain. Be sure to wear shoes with socks if you want to participate.

Things to do in Virginia

Visit arlington national cemetery.

Arlington, Virginia

Photo by Carrie from Maple and Maps

Established during the Civil War, more than 400,000 people are buried in Arlington National Cemetery —many of whom are fallen American service members—and it solemnly pays tribute to countless more. No visit to the cemetery is complete without witnessing the Changing of the Guard , a ceremony that occurs at the top of each hour (as well as every half hour from April-September) at The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The monument honors American service members who died without being identified. Members of the 3rd U.S. Infantry Regiment continuously guard the tomb, even in rain, snow, and sleet.

Arlington National Cemetery is also the resting place of President John F. Kennedy and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Visiting the eternal flame burning at their gravesite is another important stop on a cemetery tour.

But perhaps the most sobering part of any visit to Arlington National Cemetery is seeing the endless rows of simple white headstones marking the graves of thousands of brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country. The cemetery is free to enter and open 365 days per year.

By Carrie from  Maple and Maps

Take a scenic drive through Shenandoah National Park

Blue Ridge Mountains, Virginia

Head to this National Park in northern Virginia for miles of incredible scenic drives through the Blue Ridge Mountains. The park’s main attraction, Skyline Drive, stretches for 105 miles cutting through the entire length of the park and continues southward as the famous Blue Ridge Parkway. Fall is one of the best times of the year to visit Shenandoah as the colors of the foliage stretching out through the valley are a sight to behold.

In addition to 75 overlooks featuring spectacular views of the Shenandoah Valley, Skyline Drive also provides access to numerous hiking trails, campgrounds, waterfalls, and more. The park also features an access point to the Appalachian Trail. If you want to summit the park’s tallest peak, you can take the moderate Hawksbill Mountain Trail, a 1.7-mile out and back trail beginning at mile post 45.6 to the top of the 4,051 foot tall mountain. Because you’re starting from an elevation already, you only gain 690 feet on the hike so it’s not too strenuous. If you’re looking for waterfalls, try the one-mile trail to Dark Hollow Falls that begins at mile marker 51.

Read more about visiting Shenandoah National Park here.

See where the final battle of the American Revolution was fought

Yorktown, Virginia

Photo by Cynthia from Mackintosh Travels

The Battle of Yorktown ended on October 19, 1781 and marked a decisive victory by the American and French armies over British troops led by General Cornwallis. The battle not only boosted faltering American morale and revived French enthusiasm for the American Revolutionary War, but it helped undermine popular support for the conflict in England. During our tour of the battlefield , a National Park employee explained the battle, sights, and surrender flags situated throughout the battlefield. We loved being able to spatially orient ourselves and imagine the 18th century scene.

The  American Revolution Museum , another aspect of Yorktown, is an outdoor living museum with people dressed in period costumes, illustrating how people in that time period would have lived from day to day. Officially dedicated on April 1, 2017, the museum boasts 22,000 square feet of exhibition space with films, interactive galleries, and artifacts. Just outside the main museum building is the Revolution-era farm site, complete with log kitchens and attached brick chimneys. The museum posted procession times and we decided to hang around outside so we could catch it live. The fife and drums procession was absolutely amazing to hear live!

A tour of Yorktown will be more than a history class. It will come to life right before your eyes. This tour was more than an educational field trip for our family, and especially our two teenage boys! There are a few ticket packages you can purchase to visit Yorktown and one popular package is called the America’s Historic Triangle which encompasses entrances to Yorktown, Jamestown, and Williamsburg. To really experience first-hand Colonial America, we purchased this package.

By Cynthia from Mackintosh Travels

Visit a living history museum in Colonial Williamsburg

Williamsburg, Virginia

Photo by Margie from DQ Travel

Colonial Williamsburg  is considered a living history museum where tourists walk through a restored colonial town and can participate in various activities to explore daily life in the 18th century. It is a must-do when visiting Virginia, as it brings history to life. People can simply walk around the town and watch the artisans making crafts, have lunch at a British tavern, or tour the governor’s palace.

There are numerous demonstrations with actors dressed in colonial garb throughout the day depending on your interests. One can take a carriage ride through the main street, learn how a metalworker crafts a sword, watch a fife and drum parade or visit an apothecary. Entrance is free to walk the grounds, however, to enter a house and watch a trade demonstration you’ll need tickets. You can also include a trip to nearby Yorktown and Jamestown too. Visiting Colonial Williamsburg is like stepping back in time and being right at the center of it all – I highly recommend it if you enjoy history. See more on the official website .

By Margie from DQ Travel

Buy your tickets here!

See marine life on a dolphin watching cruise

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach has loads of beautiful shoreline perfect for taking a swim. You could easily spend a whole vacation just relaxing on the beach. You’d be missing out on my favorite Virginia Beach activity though – dolphin watching cruises. These boats leave regularly to take passengers out along the coast with the hope of spotting some dolphins. We were incredibly lucky on our cruise as a pod of dolphins followed behind our boat for several minutes. We spotted a few others a little further away, but watching the dolphins leaping through the waves the boat was making was the real treat. As an added bonus, the evening cruise I picked allowed me to watch sunset from the water.

Cruises last 1.5 hours, most of which is spent cruising along the shoreline. Dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, but the company offers a guarantee that will allow you to do another cruise if you don’t see any on your first. The boats even have a snack bar and regular bar if you’re like me and prefer to have food available at all times. Find out how to book here .

Things to do in Washington, D.C.

Visit the world class museums of the smithsonian institution.

Washington, D.C.

Photo by Lindsay from Excursion Everywhere

The Smithsonian museums in Washington DC should be a part of your East Coast bucket list because it’s a collection of items from America’s history with something for everyone. The Smithsonian isn’t just one stop, it’s actually 17 museums, plus the National Zoo . So plan your trip with extra days if you want to see them all! There are 11 museums and galleries located downtown along the National Mall and 6 others spread out around the DC area. My three favorites are: (1) the Air and Space Museum at Dulles airport where you can see the Space Shuttle Discovery and the Enola Gay, (2) the National History Museum where you can spend a few hours wandering among displays of dinosaurs, space rocks, and the stunning Hope Diamond, and (3) the American History Museum with Dorothy’s Ruby Red slippers from the Wizard of Oz and the most iconic of the First Ladies’ dresses. For art lovers, there are a handful of museums covering different styles of art such as the classy American Art Museum full of landscapes from American artists, the Portrait Gallery, the Hirshhorn with its collection of modern art exhibits, and more. Lastly, children and animal lovers will love visiting the National Zoo to check out the adorable baby pandas.

By Lindsay from Excursion Everywhere

Tour the United States Capitol Building

If you’re interested in American politics and history, there is no better activity in Washington, DC than a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building. This is the home of American law, policy and public debate.

Free, hour-long tours of the Capitol start with a short video. Then you visit the Rotunda, the National Statuary Hall Collection and the Crypt. You’ll learn about the dome, the “Statue of Freedom” on top, and some of the building’s quirks — including John Quincy Adams’ “whisper spot.” The architecture is amazing and the history is fascinating. I highly recommend reserving a ticket online in advance. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you can also arrange a visit through your Representative or Senators’ offices — with the added bonus of getting a pass to visit the House Gallery, where you can watch a legislative session. Time your visit for when controversial legislation is on the House floor and watch how American government really works!

Security is very tight at the Capitol. You can’t bring anything that could be construed as a weapon. Basically leave everything at home except your wallet, keys, and a water bottle. There is a free coat check.

By Carrie from Trains, Planes and Tuk Tuks

Check out this tour that includes reserved Capitol admission so you don’t miss out!

See the Declaration of Independence and Constitution in person

Photo by Sarah from The Moment Mom

Bucket list travel comes in all shapes and sizes. Sometimes it’s an amazing natural wonder or ruins from an ancient civilization. The National Archives might not seem like it belongs on the same list, but it can’t be beaten if you want to truly connect with a piece of our nation’s history. You can find the Archives on the National Mall with the many Smithsonian museums.

One of the best things about the National Archives is that you aren’t allowed to take pictures. I know it seems a little counterintuitive, but it forces you to be in the moment and truly take in the history around you. Seeing THE Declaration of Independence and THE Constitution really bring you back to what the founding fathers must have felt when they were drafting these documents. You can also see the original Bill of Rights, and the Magna Carta is sometimes on display. My favorite item, by far, was the annotated copy of the Constitution from George Washington. Looking at his notes in the margin and his corrections to the wording, it makes those moments for the founding fathers even more real. While they might not draw as many people as the Hope Diamond in the Museum of Natural History, I would argue that the documents in National Archives mean more to the United States than all of the other treasures on the National Mall. This makes them the ultimate bucket list item for your trip to Washington, D.C.!

See more about visiting Washington, D.C. with kids by Sarah at The Moment Mom

This tour gets you skip the line access to the National Archives and a guided tour!

Explore the monuments at the National Mall

The collection of monuments at the National Mall is one of the top tourist attractions in Washington, D.C. The two most iconic ones face each other across the long, narrow Reflecting Pool and honor presidents Washington and Lincoln. Washington’s monument can be seen towering over the buildings, and visitors can ride an elevator to the top . Fun fact: if you look closely, you can see that it’s made of two different colors of marble. The Lincoln Memorial houses a larger-than-life statue of him inside an elaborate marble Greek revival building with two of his most famous speeches carved inside. You’ll also find monuments to Presidents Thomas Jefferson and Franklin Delano Roosevelt nearby. Martin Luther King Jr. is also honored in a very moving monument in the area.

The National Mall is home to monuments for three different wars as well. The Vietnam Memorial is perhaps the most famous, with its somber black wall featuring the names of those killed in the conflict. There are usually flowers and candles left nearby by family members who still mourn their losses. The Korean War Memorial is located on the opposite side of the Reflecting Pool and features statues of troops slogging through the fields there. The newest addition to the National Mall memorializes those who fought during WWII and is located at the end of the Reflecting Pool opposite the Lincoln Memorial. The extensive monument features pillars honoring the combatants from all 48 US states and eight territories (Alaska and Hawaii weren’t states yet at the time). The most moving part of the memorial for me was the wall of over 4000 gold stars, each of which represents 100 Americans who died.

The monuments at the National Mall are open 24 hours a day , and they’re just as spectacular at night with their dramatic lighting as they are during the day. They’re free to visit, and you can stop by one of the National Parks booths for information and maps. Find out more on the official NPS site .

See the cherry blossoms in the spring

Every spring, tourists flock to Washington, D.C. to see the famous cherry blossom trees blooming. The cherry blossom trees, originally a gift from the mayor of Tokyo though many more have been planted over the years, reach their peak bloom in early April , though the dates vary a bit year-to-year. The majority of them are located around the Tidal Basin near the Jefferson Memorial and the Potomac Park, though you can find a sprinkling of them throughout the rest of the National Mall and other areas.

The National Cherry Blossom Festival runs from late March to early April and includes three weeks of festivities. Depending on your interests, you can experience a kite festival, bike tours of the Tidal Basin, sushi and sake demonstrations, a kimono fashion show, or a fireworks display. You can also witness dignitaries gathering at the Tidal Basin to light a 300-year-old ceremonial stone lantern that was a gift from the Japanese ambassador. The last Saturday of the festival also features a parade.

You can even sign up for a Segway tour of the cherry blossoms!

Things to do in West Virginia

Experience the legendary white water rafting and scenery at new river gorge.

Glen Jean, West Virginia

Photo by Amanda from VeraVise WOW Travel

Recently, my family and I enjoyed a three week road trip through the mid-Atlantic and New England states. As we are apt to do, we try to check off as many national parks and monuments as we can along the way. On our way home through West Virginia we were pleased to visit New River Gorge National River and Bridge.The New River Gorge National Bridge was completed in October, 1977, as a solution to the difficult navigation down the curvy mountain roads into the gorge and across the river. By the way, you can still access the old route which we highly recommend if you have time to do so. The vantage point of the bridge from underneath is as awe inspiring as from above. As you can see from the picture, the bridge is sight to behold. The bridge sits 876 feet above the river and is over 3000 feet long. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can purchase tickets for around $70 a person and walk on a 24” wide catwalk that runs directly underneath the roadway of the bridge. We, however, had children too young to participate as you must be at least 48” tall and 8 years old. Phew! I was glad to escape that one.

Speaking of adventures, the white water rafting on New River is an extremely popular and famous activity in the area. New River Gorge National River includes 53 miles of rapids. The upper (southern) part of the river has some longer pools and easier rapids up to class III. The lower (northern) section, also called, “the Lower Gorge” has very large rapids ranging in difficulty from Class III to Class V. There are several licensed outfitters in the area offering guided tours for the inexperienced.

By Amanda from VeraVise Outdoor Living

Check out the white water rafting and zip lining opportunities through Viator!

Visit Harpers Ferry National Historic Park

Harpers Ferry, West Virginia

Photo by Halef from The Round the World Guys

West Virginia is one of the most beautiful and often overlooked states on in the Eastern US. Those lucky enough to visit West Virginia always agree – it is a very pretty state. One particular favorite with visitors is Harpers Ferry , the hidden gem of West Virginia. At this historic town, the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet. Harpers Ferry has been a significant landmark from the history of Native Americans, through the Revolutionary War and ever since.

The heart of the town is Harpers Ferry National Historical Park. Many famous Americans, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, W.E.B. Du Bois, and John Brown have left their mark on Harpers Ferry.

Harpers Ferry is the perfect destination for nature lovers. It is a great location for water activities – kayaking, white water rafting, and river tubing. The park has around 20 miles of hiking trails within its boundaries , including the mid-point of the Appalachian Trail. These trails are considered some of the best walking in America. Hiking through Harpers Ferry’s amazing, lush, hilly landscape is simply satisfying.

You can’t help humming John Denver’s “Take Me Home, Country Roads” – especially when you realize that you’re surrounded by everything in the song’s lyrics like the scenery of the Blue Ridge Mountains and looking over the Shenandoah River. Harpers Ferry is a special place that should be on your bucket list for the Mid-Atlantic region.

By Halef from The Round the World Guys

If you’re visiting other parts of the US, check out these other bucket list guides:

• See the Best of the Midwest with this Ultimate Bucket List
• The Ultimate New England Bucket List
• 45 Bucket List-Worthy Things to Do in the Southwestern United States
• Fifty Bucket List-Worthy Things to Do in the Southeastern United States

Don’t forget to save this post for later on Pinterest!

Great list! There are so many things I haven’t done yet… New River Gorge and Shenandoah National Park look awesome. Not mention the cherry blossom… Thanks for the tips!

Best deal in NYC is the Stanton Island Ferry – It’s FREE and you can see the statue of Liberty.

Absolutely stunning! Thank you on a detailed impressive guide!

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• 9 Unforgettable Small Towns to Visit in the Mid-Atlantic

The Eastern Coast of the United States is under one name but spread among several identities by state, town, and landscape. Small towns in the Chesapeake Bay along Maryland are vibrant in colors and history, and the beaches on seaside Delaware stretch across miles of explorable sealife or slow strolls, and the diverse scenery in the wetlands of Virginia or the rolling hills of North Carolina make the Mid-Atlantic as memorable a vacation as any. Here are some of the most unforgettable small towns along the Mid-Atlantic that must be on every traveler's itinerary.

State College, Pennsylvania

State College is a college town holding the extravagant and historic Pennsylvania State University. A walking tour around campus is headlined by Old Main, the school's landmark building constructed in 1930, and most likely ending at Beaver Stadium, the third-largest stadium in the United States that comes alive on Saturdays with students filling the 106,572-person capacity to support the resident football team, the Penn State Nittany Lions.

What escapes popular attention, however, is State College's extensive allocation of parks and greenspace surrounding the town's Georgian-style interior. The most notable is the Arboretum, a university-run botanical garden with diverse garden plants and extensive woodlands with tall, well-maintained trails.

Cape Charles, Virginia

Cape Charles is an underappreciated getaway destination at the mouth of Chesapeake Bay, just north of Norfolk, Virginia . Central Park holds the town's events, activities, and family picnics, while the surrounding Cape Charles Historic District is full of cozy streets with charming boutiques like the Cape Charles Coffee House and the Cape Charles Brewing Company.

The most popular attractions are the Beachfront, complemented by a long fishing pier, and the Cape Charles Museum, housed in a former power plant with local history exhibits. Just south of the town is the Cape Charles Natural Area Preserve, where low marshland areas accent lush greenery and an advanced trail system that follows ponds, beaches, and marshes.

Bethany Beach, Delaware

Bethany Beach is a portion of US Highway 1 in Delaware, whose main district is spread far along the coastline of the Atlantic Ocean and paralleled by a wide boardwalk. Aside from the various daytime and nighttime activities like a Back Bay Tour or a round of golf at the Bear Trap Dunes, the town is surrounded to the north and south by dense natural landscapes.

There is the Delaware Seashore Fresh Pond and the popular Fresh Pond Trailhead, and just across the Charles W. Cullen Memorial Bridge is the Delaware Seashore State Park, filled with hiking trails and seashore escapes. To the south is the Fenwick Island State Park, where it's popular to kayak or boat through the Little Assawoman Bay. 

Havre de Grace, Maryland

Following from the mouth at Cape Charles to the very end of Chesapeake Bay leaves travelers at the picturesque town of Havre de Grace , a paradise for lovers of small-town fishing villages. The Susquehanna River cuts through town, bringing travelers past the Friends-Concord Point Lighthouse and the Millard Tydings Memorial Park to dock at the Tidewater Marina.

It's popular to walk from here towards the Frank J. Hutchins Memorial Park and the Havre De Grace Walking Pier, often stopping at the Havre de Grace Decoy Museum. Outdoor activities are not far either: the Susquehanna State Park is nearby upstream and headlined by the Steppingstone Farm Museum, while in the opposite direction and out to sea is the island of the Susquehanna National Wildlife Refuge, popular for day trips. 

Kill Devil Hills, North Carolina

Kill Devil Hills is the most populous of Outer Banks towns, but it doesn't sacrifice natural beauty and peace for busy streets. It's popularly recognized as the home of the first successful flight of the Wright Brothers; likewise, its most popular attraction is the Wright Brothers National Memorial, marked by the First Flight Sculpture and the First Flight Airport.

Natural settings also surround the town: the Avalon Pier is popular for fishing, strolling, or sunset-watching on the Atlantic Ocean, while the less visited and equally beautiful Wright Brothers Multiuse Path follows along the opposite Kitty Hawk Bay. It's common to travel south from the Wright Brothers Memorial towards Jockey's Ridge State Park, where a mini-desert holds the East Coast's tallest dune, making it a perfect location for hand-gliding and parasailing.

West Chester, Pennsylvania

West Chester has brick buildings and white trim accents that make the expected appeal of a Georgian-style Pennsylvania town. The inner town is marked by the West Chester Railroad Company, a popular historical getaway that visitors usually complement with the Chester County History Center, or a show at the Uptown Knauer Performing Arts Center.

The whole town is dotted with greenspace, the most popular being the open fields of the Rolling Green Memorial Park, the West Goshen Community Park, or the exotic foliage of the Everhart Park. Above all, there are natural preserves with large, looming trees and dense forest floors that make feel like mythical woodlands, like the Natural Lands' Stroud Preserve and the Robert B. Gordon Natural Area for Environmental Studies. 

Lewes, Delaware

Lewes is a beautiful small town in the Delaware Bay at the receiving end of the Cape May, New Jersey ferry. Unique natural landscapes surround the town: Cape Henlopen State Park is miles of sandy beach with a striking observation tower and popular fishing points like Herring Point, and the Prime Hook National Wildlife Refuge holds over 10,000 acres of wetlands, making it ideal for kayaking, boating, and hiking.

The Zwaanendael Museum is a popular site of Dutch history commemorating Delaware's first settlement, and the Lewes Historical Society Main Campus is an equally frequented daytime visit along the Lewes-Rehoboth Beach river that cuts through the town square. Otherwise, there is always beach space available on either Savannah Beach or the Beach Plum Island Nature Preserve.

Edenton, North Carolina

Past the straight of land that closes the Albemarle Sound and into the mouth of the Chowan River is the charming town of Edenton, North Carolina . Visiting the town from the water leads to the widely recognized Roanoke River Lighthouse, a site of architectural intrigue on wooden stilts in the town's harbor. The Victorian-style Penelope Barker House Welcome Center is only next door, bordered by the long, crowned wooden bridges and island trees that mark the picturesque Queen Anne Park.

The Edenton National Fish Hatchery Aquarium is a perfect family-friendly daytime activity with turtles, birds, fish, or a lazy stroll along Pembroke Creek. In addition, during the summer, the top attraction is the Chowan County Regional Fair.

Damascus, Virginia

Along the Virginia-Tennessee border and divided by Laurel and Beaverdam Creek is the small town of Damascus that's molded by rolling hills and tall white oak trees. The full range of natural features is available at the Virginia Creeper Trail Park, where there are widely paved roads fit for group biking and tall wooden bridges breaching past the dense forest.

The Damascus Town Park has a popular trail that starts at the Red Caboose and follows open grass plains on the Virginia Creeper National Recreational Trail when the park isn't filled with tents of vendors on summer and spring weekends. Visitors still looking for more outdoor recreation usually follow the Jeb Stuart Highway to the Straight Branch Trailhead and hike to Estella Falls.

The Atlantic Coast pulls visitors to the United States for a multitude of reasons. From the quiet and peace of the small seaside towns to the green scapes of the state and national parks, there is always a reason to remember a trip across the East coast of the country. Prospective travelers should not hesitate to plan their trip today; there is no going wrong with one of the most diverse topographical and historical areas in North America.

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2024 Solar Eclipse: The 13 Best Places to See the Event

By Katherine McLaughlin

The 2024 solar eclipse is less than one month away, making it the ideal time plan exactly how you’ll see the incredible event. On April 8, a number of cities throughout Mexico , the United States, and Canada will experience brief moments of dawn- or dusk-like darkness right in the middle of the day. The natural phenomenon, known as a total solar eclipse, happens when the moon passes between the sun and the Earth and blocks the entirety of sun’s face. According to NASA , there won’t be another total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous United States until 2044, making it all the more important to catch this one. Here, AD covers everything you need to know about the upcoming event, including the 13 best cities to experience the eclipse.

What exactly is a total solar eclipse?

There are a number of different types of eclipses, which offer different views of either the sun or moon. As NASA explains it, “A solar eclipse happens when the moon passes between the sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth that either fully or partially blocks the sun’s light in some areas.” A total solar eclipse means the moon will completely block the sun’s face, and if you’re in the path of the eclipse, you’ll be able to see the sun’s corona and outer atmosphere, weather permitting. Other types of eclipses, like a partial solar eclipse, occur when the moon covers only some of the sun, resulting in a crescent shape.

A total solar eclipse is seen on a partly cloudy day.

How do people safely watch a total solar eclipse?

Not only are solar eclipses special because of their relative rarity, they’re unique in how they’re watched. For the few minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun—know as totality—viewers can look directly at the sun without any eye protection. Any other time, including the hours before and after totality when you’ll see a partial eclipse, it’s important to wear protective eye gear, such as solar eclipse glasses. “As soon as you see even a little bit of the bright sun reappear after totality, immediately put your eclipse glasses back on or use a handheld solar viewer to look at the sun,” NASA explains.

How often do total solar eclipses happen?

Solar eclipses, of one kind or another, happen between two and five times a year. Total eclipses happen about once every 18 months. However, this doesn’t mean one will be visible from your home this often. According to the Natural History Museum, London , a total solar eclipse is viewable from any one place about once every 400 years. For example, the last total solar eclipse visible from the United States happened in 2017 and followed a track from Oregon towards South Carolina. This year, the solar eclipse’s path will start in Texas and move northeast towards Maine. The next total solar eclipse will happen in 2026 and will be visible from the Arctic, Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain.

How long will the total solar eclipses last?

Total solar eclipses can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes. The difference in totality length has to do with how far apart the sun, moon, and Earth are at any given time, since the latter two bodies both orbit in elliptical paths.

When the Earth is furthest from the sun—making the star appear smaller—and the moon is closest to the Earth—which makes the moon look big—totality can last for over seven minutes. As Astronomy Mag reports, these circumstances will line up in about 160 years, when a solar eclipse on July 16, 2186, will see almost seven-and-a-half minutes of totality. On the other extreme, if the Earth is at its closest point to the sun and the moon is at its furthest point from Earth, humans won’t see a total solar eclipse, even if all of the celestial bodies are in line. Since totality is all about the perspective of the viewer, this is also why each city will experience the 2024 eclipse differently.

This year, totality will last for a little over four minutes in some areas, which is significantly more than the two minutes that people experienced during the 2017 eclipse. As NASA notes, “During the 2017 total solar eclipse, the moon was a little bit farther away from Earth than it will be during the upcoming total solar eclipse, causing the path of that eclipse to be a little skinnier.” Seven years ago, the path of totality—which shows which parts of the world will be able to see the total solar eclipse—was only about 62 to 71 miles wide. This year, that path ranges from 108 to 122 miles wide. “Meaning at any given moment this eclipse covers more ground,” NASA explains.

How to read maps showing the solar eclipse path

As noted, this year’s path of totality is about 110 miles wide. Cities closer to the center of the path will sustain total darkness longer than those on the edges. In addition to longer totality than in 2017, this year’s path of totality covers more densely populated areas than the previous one. This means more people should be able to experience the total solar eclipse.

The 2024 solar eclipse map from NASA shows where totality will occur on April 8.

Any part of the country that is not within the path may see a partial eclipse, and the closer a location is to the strip, the smaller the crescent of visible sun will be. In these locations, it won’t be safe to look directly at the eclipse without protective glasses or a viewing device. NASA has put together an interactive map , which allows viewers to see the eclipse timing in their city.

Where are the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse?

According to NASA , cities in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine, and small parts of Tennessee and Michigan will experience the total solar eclipse. Parts of Mexico and Canada will also fall within the eclipse’s path. Read on for the best places to see the 2024 total solar eclipse.

Mazatlán, Mexico.

By Marta Sader

By Katie Schultz

By Sam Cochran

Mexico’s pacific coast will be the first place in continental North America to experience the eclipse. Mazatlán, a popular resort city, is an ideal location to see the occurrence, as it is directly in the eclipse’s path. Totality will begin around 11:07 a.m. local time and last for four minutes and 17 seconds. Because it’s such an optimal place to see the 2024 solar eclipse, NASA is hosting a viewing event at Vidanta Mazatlán . Here, visitors will be able to watch screens showing telescope views of the eclipse in addition to other hands-on activities, such as projects for kids and touchable moon rocks.

Located more centrally in the country, the solar eclipse will also be visible from Torreón. Totality will start just before 12:19 p.m. local time and last for four minutes and 12 seconds. A partial eclipse will also be visible before and after totality, starting at 11:44 a.m. and ending at 1:54 p.m.

Texas Hill Country.

Part of Texas Hill Country, Kerrville is a prime location to watch the 2024 eclipse. Near the Mexican border, it will be among the first US cities to experience totality, which will begin at 1:32 p.m. and last for almost four and a half minutes. Austin and Dallas are also in the path of totality, but will only experience the darkness for about two minutes and a little under four minutes, respectively. NASA is also hosting an event here, which will take place in Louise Hays Park and include live music, speakers, and programming for kids.

Russellville, Arkansas.

Russellville, about 85 miles east of Little Rock, will experience four minutes and 12 seconds of totality, starting at 1:50 p.m. The city has planned a number of exciting programming for the historic event, including a solar eclipse festival and a concert with Grammy-winner Rhonda Vincent.

Cape Girardeau, Missouri.

Located along the Mississippi River, Cape Girardeau is one of the best places in Missouri to watch the 2024 solar eclipse. According to NASA’s map, totality will last for a little over four minutes, beginning at 1:58 p.m. Head to Old Town Cape, where the city is hosting a block party on the day.

Carbondale, Illinois.

Informally known as Little Egypt—possibly because the area delivered grains to northern parts of the state during the 1800s famine or because the southern tip of Illinois is similar to the Nile delta region in Egypt—Carbondale will experience four minutes and 10 seconds of totality, beginning at 1:59 p.m. The city also experienced totality during the 2017 eclipse, though it will see a longer dark period this time around. Home of Southern Illinois University, the school is hosting public viewing at its football stadium.

Bloomington, Indiana.

Much of central and southern Indiana will experience totality during the 2024 solar eclipse, but Bloomington, largely a college town and home to Indiana University, will be among the best places in the Hoosier state to watch the event, since totality will last for about four minutes. The town is home to Indiana University, which is among our list of the most beautiful college campuses in America. Spend the afternoon strolling through the campus’s Gothic- and Romanesque-inspired buildings, and then catch the eclipse at 3 p.m. Indianapolis, the state’s capital, is another good city to watch the eclipse, but totality will last for less time, about three minutes and 47 seconds.

Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland won’t be in a solar eclipse’s path of totality again until 2444 , making it a once in a lifetime experience for any locals hoping to watch the eclipse from their hometown. The city will experience maximum darkness at 3:15 p.m, which will last for just under four minutes. To commemorate the moment, the Great Lake Science Center is hosting a Total Eclipse Fest on April 6 through April 8. The free outdoor event will include speakers, concerts, performances, and hands-on science activities.

Erie, Pennsylvania.

Only a small portion of northern Pennsylvania will be within the path of totality. Erie, located along the shores of the lake of the same name, will be one of the best places in the state to see the eclipse. Totality will last for three minutes and 42 seconds, starting at 3:16 p.m. The local government has put together a map of public parks and other viewing locations to watch the spectacle.

Buffalo, New York.

Buffalo, New York, will see three minutes and 46 seconds of total darkness, beginning at 3:18 p.m. There are a number of public “ watch parties ” happening in the city, which the government has compiled for visitors and locals. Midcentury-modern architecture fans may want to use the day to visit Graycliff, a Frank Lloyd Wright–designed estate, which is hosting a special open house on April 8, allowing guests to watch the eclipse from the property.

Niagara Region, Ontario.

Small parts of Canada will also witness total darkness during the 2024 eclipse. The Niagara region is the best place to see totality, which will start at 3:19 p.m. and last for three minutes and 15 seconds. Montreal will also experience totality, but only for a little over one minute.

Burlington, Vermont.

Much of New England will miss out on totality during the 2024 eclipse, as the path will only cover parts of northern Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Burlington is among the best places for those in the region to travel to, as it will experience three minutes and 19 seconds of darkness, starting at 3:26 p.m.

Houlton, Maine.

Maine is the northern most place in the United States to see the total eclipse in 2024, also making it the last place in the country to experience totality. Houlton will be among the best places in the state to watch the sight, and darkness will begin at 3:32 p.m. and last for three minutes and 20 seconds.

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Best Places To Live In Middle-Earth

• Middle-earth offers diverse locations ranging from dangerous ruins to idyllic havens like Tom Bombadil's house and Lothlorien.
• Iconic places like Moria, Gondor, Rivendell, and The Shire showcase Tolkien's rich world-building and narrative depth.
• Despite perilous journeys and menacing threats, Middle-earth is also home to vibrant civilizations and awe-inspiring architecture.

J.R.R. Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings has become an indispensable part of the fantasy canon, spawning related texts, movie and TV adaptations, and numerous video games that let players explore Middle-earth at their leisure. Indeed, part of the enduring appeal of Tolkien's work is his detailed and creative world-building, which resulted in such iconic locations as Mordor, Isengard, and Gondor.

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Admittedly, not every part of Middle-earth can be described as a tourist hot-spot; those familiar with the journeys of both Bilbo and Frodo will be aware of the dangers inherent to traveling through Tolkien's world. However, the fantasy realm isn't all doom and gloom, and there are many areas where even the most ardent of adventurers might be tempted to settle down.

The Once-Great Stronghold Of The Dwarves

Discussion of Moria brings several things to mind, including Gandalf's iconic clash with the Balrog during The Fellowship of the Ring, and Free Range Games' less iconic The Lord of the Rings: Return to Moria game from 2023. However, the gloomy, ruined city is unlikely to be anyone's number one choice for a home—at least, not during the Third Age depicted in Tolkein's epic trilogy.

Yet Moria was once a bustling and prosperous city, illuminated with crystal lamps and home to impressive architectural structures like Durin's Bridge. Indeed, at the height of its prosperity, Moria was the place to be in Middle-earth, at least for Dwarves. The Mines of Moria, rich in valuable mithril , allowed Moria and its inhabitants to flourish, but the greed of the Dwarves caused them to dig too deep, uncovering dark powers which decimated the once-mighty city.

A Troubled But Mighty Kingdom

By the time of The Lord of the Rings , the legendary Gondor finds itself besieged by the forces of evil. Centered around the capital city of Minas Tirith, Gondor acts as crucial counterweight to Mordor, ensuring the containment of Sauron's forces. However, despite valiant efforts of the Men who populate the kingdom, their resistance proves insufficient. Gondor is further threatened by the corruption of its leader, Denethor, and continued attacks and sieges .

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While the geopolitical status of Gondor is precarious, the architectural splendor of areas like Minas Tirith cannot be discounted. Indeed, Gondor is home to some of Middle-earth's best civil infrastructure, making life there fairly pleasant during the brief periods of peace.

Tom Bombadil's Home

An oasis in a chaotic world.

Fans of Peter Jackson's Lord of the Rings movies may be unfamiliar with the character of Tom Bombadil , as the section of The Fellowship of the Ring in which he features is notably absent from Jackson's adaptation. This is understandable, as Bombadil has only a minor role in Frodo's journey, but it does deprive audiences of a chance to see one of Middle-earth's most idyllic areas. Bombadil lives deep in the Old Forest, enjoying an intense connection with the natural world and a degree of seclusion from the chaos unfolding throughout Middle-earth.

While his house only provides a temporary refuge for Frodo and the other Hobbits, Bombadil's friendly persona and hosting skills make this one of Middle-earth's more desirable residences. For those wishing to find a safe haven from the tumult of the Third Age, Bombadil's house offers the perfect solution.

A Point Of Light In A Dark Region

Few parts of Middle-earth feel as magical as the Elvish realm of Lothlorien , where even time itself seems bizarrely affected by arcane forces. Home to Cereborn, Galadriel, and the Galadhrim, this forested community provides welcome respite to the Fellowship after its harrowing ordeal in the Mines of Moria. However, the strict policies of the Galadhrim nearly prohibit entry to the Fellowship, and tensions are initially high between the Dwarf Gimli and Lothlorien's inhabitants.

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Despite this rocky start, Lothlorien proves to be a paradise for the Fellowship. The generosity and insight of Galadriel prove essential to the ongoing success of Frodo and his friends, and Lothlorien itself leaves a lasting impression on each member of the party. While Lothlorien may be difficult to enter, those who do are bound to be impressed by this timeless, woodland region.

The Birthplace Of The Fellowship

Rivendell serves a vital plot function in Tolkien's The Fellowship of the Ring , not only providing a safe haven for Frodo and his friends to evade the pursuit of the Ringwraiths, but also serving as the meeting place of the Council of Elrond. Yet beyond its role in the plot of the saga, Rivendell boasts beautiful surroundings and impressive architecture. It's little wonder, then, that the region's buildings have been immortalized in a highly detailed Lego set, as well as by talented gamers .

As a major Elvish settlement in Middle-earth, Rivendell is not only home to such iconic figures as Elrond and Arwen, but is also a place of sanctuary. As such, it is understandable that an aged Bilbo chooses to remain there following the Council of Elrond rather than joining the Fellowship's quest. The heroic Frodo also struggles to leave the serenity of Rivendell behind, even when the fate of Middle-earth hangs in the balance.

A Cosy Home For Reluctant Adventurers

The Shire is, without a doubt, one of Middle-earth's most iconic locations. Home to The Lord of the Rings ' most famous Hobbits, namely Bilbo and Frodo, this pastoral region is ideal for those who want some (temporary) respite from the machinations of Sauron and other evildoers. Indeed, from its cosy Hobbit-holes to its bountiful nature, the Shire is not only the starting place for many an epic journey, but also a comforting reprieve for weary travelers.

Lord of the Rings: The Hobbits' Barrow-Blades, Explained

Admittedly, many of the Shire's occupants demonstrate the same flaws and failings as humans in the real world. This is perhaps unsurprising, as Tolkien modeled the fantastical region on Worcestershire, a rural region in England, while Peter Jackson turned to the lush landscapes of New Zealand in order to bring the Hobbit paradise to the silver screen. However, despite the presence of some petty neighbors, the Hobbit-holes of the Shire are prime real estate.

The Lord of the Rings

Created by J. R. R. Tolkien

Current Series The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power

Where to watch HBO Max

Best places to work in 2024? Here's what US employees had to say about their employers

Two mortgage lending companies, a certified public accountant firm, a staffing business and a credit union are among the top workplaces in the U.S.

The rankings are part of the fourth-annual survey co-sponsored by Energage and USA TODAY.

The Top Workplaces USA awards offer recognition to midsize and large organizations, including those with operations in multiple markets. Employers with at least 150 employees are eligible.

Winners are identified solely based on employee feedback gathered through the Energage employee engagement survey. Companies were chosen based on the results of surveys taken over 12 months in 2023.

The top five winners among organizations with more than 2,500 employees are:

1. Fairway Independent Mortgage Corp., a mortgage lending company based in Madison, Wisconsin.

2. Plante Moran, a certified public accountants and consultants firm in Southfield, Michigan.

3. Aya Healthcare, a travel nursing staffing firm based in San Diego.

4. New American Funding, a mortgage lending firm in Tustin, California.

5. Mountain America Credit Union, headquartered in Salt Lake City.

There are also winners in three other categories: companies with 1,000 to 2,499 employees, organizations with 500 to 999 employees and organizations with 150 to 499 people on staff. Energage ranked the top 100 employers in each of the four categories and then listed the remaining winners in alphabetical order.

More than 7,000 employers nationwide were invited to take the challenge and 2,227 followed through with an employee survey process. Ultimately, 1,531 employers received recognition.

“A Top Workplaces award brings a company’s culture strengths to the national stage, helping them differentiate in a fiercely competitive landscape,'' said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. "It’s a morale-boosting honor for the workforce and an effective magnet for attracting top-tier talent.”

View from Washington, DC

Sun will be 87 % obscured

See what the solar eclipse will look like in your city

April 8 may be your best chance to see a total solar eclipse for two decades.

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If you could look down on Earth from space during April’s total solar eclipse, you would see the moon cast its shadow on the planet, creating a dark blob that will dart across the land from Mexico into Texas and up toward Maine and Canada.

And if you are lucky enough to be looking up from Earth in the moon’s shadow, you’ll see the sky fall dark, it will get colder and quieter, and for a special three to four minutes, you’ll be able to view the sun’s glowing white corona.

For many people in North America, April 8 is likely to be the best opportunity in their lifetime to experience a total solar eclipse. Most in the contiguous United States, however, will only experience a partial eclipse.

Whether you see a total or partial eclipse all depends on where you are to view the phenomenon.

An estimated 31.5 million people live within the roughly 115-mile wide path of totality that stretches from Mazatlán, Mexico, to Newfoundland, Canada. Inside the path, as the sun, moon and Earth become perfectly aligned, the moon blocks the sun and casts its shadow on Earth. The farther away you are from the center of this path, the less the moon will obscure the sun. People within the contiguous United States who are outside the path will see a partial eclipse.

“During a total eclipse, you’re plunged into the moon’s shadow. You’re in this eerie twilight. You can see bright stars and planets in the sky. And of course, the biggest attraction is you see the sun’s solar corona. You don’t see any of those things in the partial eclipse, even at 99 percent,” said Fred Espenak, a retired NASA astrophysicist who has experienced 30 total solar eclipses. “It’s the difference between night and day.”

The difference is so enormous, even veteran eclipse viewers often don’t have words that do justice to totality.

“You think you know what you’re going to experience, but you have no idea,” said Kate Russo, an author, psychologist and eclipse chaser who will be seeing her 14th total solar eclipse in April. “I always say it’s like the ineffable,” she added. “Sometimes things happen to us that we just have no words to describe.”

View of a total eclipse

Eagle Pass, TX • Sun will be 100% obscured

View of a partial eclipse

Washington, D.C. • Sun will be 87% obscured

Inside the path, as the moon creeps closer to fully blocking the sun, the temperature drops and the light and wind change. Insects and animals may fall silent. Some birds might return to home to roost. And even though you’re expecting it, Russo said, it’s still so surprising.

“You notice the darkening that’s coming toward you, and that’s really eerie and it puts the hair on the back of your neck,” she said. “It really is quite exciting and thrilling, and you just can’t believe that it’s going to happen.”

The fleeting moments of totality will last anywhere from a few seconds to over four minutes, depending where you are inside the path. Mexico and 12 U.S. states have cities that will get duration times longer than four minutes. The longest totality will be in Torreón, Mexico, and will last 4 minutes and 28 seconds . Compared with other eclipses that typically only last a couple of minutes, that’s quite a long time. In 2017, the longest duration was near Carbondale, Ill., where the eclipse lasted for 2 minutes and 42 seconds.

Percentage of the sun

blocked by the moon

Indianapolis

Little Rock

San Antonio

Mexico City

Max coverage percent

Source: NASA

Percentage of the sun blocked by the moon

Max coverage

Los Angeles

For one of her books , Russo interviewed first-time eclipse viewers asking how totality made them feel. Their responses aligned with her own experiences: Within totality, the awe, connection and euphoria that people experience leaves them feeling both insignificant and a part of something greater than themselves, Russo said.

“We’re only on this Earth for just a split second of time. And I think these moments actually highlight that for you,” she said. “It puts all our other concerns or problems just into perspective.”

Within totality, there’s a lot to see when you remove your safety glasses. April’s eclipse will coincide with heightened solar activity. As the moon blocks the bright face of the sun, it reveals the sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona, and can show plumes of gas, referred to as streamers, escaping into space. These look like bright streaks or feathery rays flowing around the edge of the sun. Prominences, or magnetic loops that glow bright pink or red around the inner atmosphere, will also probably be more visible. Venus and Jupiter can also be seen on either side of the sun.

Outside of totality, the partial eclipse — even a view with 99 percent of the sun obscured — must be viewed safely with a simple viewer or safety glasses . According to Espenak, once you’re out of the path of totality, there’s not a big difference in what you’ll see. “It’s just a thinner slice of the sun that’s visible. It’s only when you make that transformation from the partial eclipse to a total eclipse that you get this dramatic change.”

Patrick Poitevin, an eclipse chaser and astronomer from Derbyshire, England, has experienced 24 total eclipses. Poitevin, who said he’s always looking for a “different” or “extreme” view, will travel to Mazatlán in April. He added that there’s lots to see along the edge or just inside or outside the path of totality using a telescope with a hydrogen-alpha filter. “What a show!” he wrote of an eclipse last year in Kosrae, Micronesia, in which he saw from a mile outside of the path a nearly 360-degree view of the chromosphere, a colored layer of the sun’s atmosphere, just above the solar surface. “Mesmerising,” he added.

Eclipses over the next 50 years

This year’s eclipse

While total solar eclipses happen about every 18 months , they are often in remote parts of the world, including the middle of the ocean. By contrast, this eclipse will pass through several densely populated cities. “It’s not that common that you get a total eclipse going through your home country,” Espenak said. “We had the 2017 eclipse, and before that it was 1979. So that was a 38-year gap.”

The next total solar eclipse visible across the contiguous United States won’t be until 2045 and will travel from California through Florida. After that, a 2078 eclipse will pass through nine Southern states.

“If you can’t travel [to totality], still go out and enjoy the partial eclipse,” Russo advises. To view the eclipse in April, she will be heading to Uvalde County, Tex., where she has held workshops and helped local officials with planning. “This is your chance,” she said, “an easy chance to get into the path.”

Espenak, whose work at NASA included eclipse predictions, met his wife, Patricia, during a 1995 eclipse in India. For 25 years, Patricia had struck out on seeing totality — her view was either partial or cloudy. It was only in India where she finally saw totality. The two will be traveling from Arizona to Mazatlán to view April’s eclipse, and Fred will be speaking.

“ I’m excited at every single one. Over a lifetime of seeing these things, I get goose bumps, and there’s that thrill of seeing it every single time,” Espenak said. “No matter how many photographs or videos you look at, it’s nothing like the real McCoy.”

About this story

We created the eclipse animations by interpolating the moon’s path, calculating its trajectory based on the initial, midpoint and final positions during the eclipse.

Eclipse animation data was sourced from the Five Millennium Canon of Solar Eclipses Database by Xavier M. Jubier, which is based on NASA’s eclipse predictions by Fred Espenak. The algorithms used were drawn from “Elements of Solar Eclipses 1951-2200” and “Astronomical Algorithms.” Eclipse track data was obtained from NASA’s Scientific Visualization Studio.

Eclipse city view animation speeds are not reflective of actual eclipse durations. Half of the city of San Antonio, Texas falls within totality and half falls outside of totality. So depending on where you are inside the city, the sun may not be 100% obscured as it is depicted in the animation.

Kevin Schaul and Denise Lu contributed to this report. Editing by Emily M. Eng and Victoria Jaggard. Copy editing by Vanessa Larson.