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Best Midwest Family Vacations

Midwest Living's experienced editors create best-in-class travel, lifestyle, food, home and garden content you won't find anywhere else. We're loudly, proudly Midwestern, and we're passionate about helping our audience explore and create through award-winning storytelling.

Head for a sparkling lake, explore big-city science and nature museums, or enjoy hiking and biking in state parks. The Midwest delivers great family getaways in destinations like Branson, Missouri; Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota; the Black Hills of South Dakota; Traverse City, Michigan; Indianapolis and more. Check out two dozen of our top picks for family vacation destinations.

Indianapolis

A top-notch children's museum, zoo, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and other kid-friendly destinations will keep your family busy during a getaway in Indianapolis. The Children's Museum of Indianapolis —the world's largest children's museum—recently added even more fun with a $38.5 million sports-theme addition. Kids also love the interactive features at Indy's Rhythm! Discovery Center, as well as experiences like a hot-air balloon ride and pioneer interpreters at Conner Prairie , a living-history museum about 25 miles northeast of downtown.

Black Hills, South Dakota

With patriotic charm, Old West adventure, sweeping history lessons, stunning scenery, caves and paleontology, and wildlife galore, South Dakota's Black Hills is one of America's greatest family destinations . Ride the 1880 Train , let the kids earn a Junior Ranger badge at Mount Rushmore, go on a horseback ride or Jeep tour at Custer State Park, and tap your inner paleontologist at The Mammoth Site .

Cincinnati, Ohio

Grown-ups don't need any excuse to visit the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Reds Hall of Fame or the Newport Aquarium on their own, but bringing the kids makes sense on a Midwest weekend getaway in Cincinnati . Besides those attractions, be sure to see the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden , the second-oldest zoo in the country; wander the maze and other attractions at Smale Riverfront Park ; stop at a Graeter's Ice Cream for a scoop of deliciousness; and head northeast of the city for a day at Kings Island amusement park.

Branson, Missouri

Thrill rides, musical shows and artisan demonstrations captivate all ages at Ozarks-themed Silver Dollar City . Add in attractions like the Branson Scenic Railway , the Titanic Museum , Branson Zipline at Wolfe Mountain and family-friendly shows at venues like Sight and Sound Theatres , and you've got plenty to entertain the kids for days . A stay at Big Cedar Lodge adds even more family activities.

Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota

The laid-back lakeside life of the Brainerd Lakes region has drawn families for generations. Choose your style from dozens of lodgings—a quiet lakeside getaway with family cabins or a full-service resort with kids' programs all day. The family can also have fun exploring Paul Bunyan Land , trying the weekly Turtle Races in Nisswa and biking at Cuyuna Country State Recreation Area .

Read more about things to do in Brainerd Lakes.

Traverse City, Michigan

Traverse City's stunning beaches, arts, culture, parks and kid-friendly restaurants make this northern Michigan town a destination the whole family can enjoy . Sun and swim at Clinch Park Beach, head out on the water with the Traverse Tall Ship Company, try all things cherry at Grand Traverse Pie Company or see a classic kids' flick at Cherry Bowl Drive-in Theatre.

Columbus, Ohio

Riding a high-wire unicycle, splashing in a massive fountain and feeding giraffes highlight a family weekend in Columbus, Ohio . The Center of Science and Industry is a must-stop, with interactive exhibits covering themes like space, energy and the oceans. Make sure, too, to see the Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens , where herb gardens, a canopy walk, play structures and a Hocking Hills-inspired splash area—waterfall and all—cover the 2-acre Scotts Miracle-Gro Foundation Children's Garden.

Planning a getaway to Omaha with the kids ? A family adventure should start with a day at Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , one of the nation's top-ranked zoos, where immersive habitats allow visitors get close to species like red pandas, sharks and gorillas. The Omaha Children's Museum entertains with interactive art and science stations, while the Durham Museum —once Omaha's main train station—lets kids explore restored train cars and stop by an old-fashioned soda fountain. On the Missouri River south of downtown, Fontenelle Forest provides a green space for hiking and ziplining.

Chicago's family fun options are nonstop—just like your kids. Top picks in and around Chicago for families include museums, historical sites and Lake Michigan beaches. You could spend a day or more just at world-class sites like the Shedd Aquarium , Adler Planetarium and the Field Museum of Natural History , but you'll also want to go a little wild at the Brookfield Zoo and let the kids roam at Millennium Park and along the lakefront.

Dubuque, Iowa

Baseball fields, caves and the mighty Mississippi River provide a fun backdrop for a family-friendly Midwest weekend getaway to Dubuque . Check out The National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , the Fields of Dreams Movie Site , and Fenelon Place Elevator —the world's shortest, steepest scenic railway.

Southwest Michigan Shore

With more than 140 miles of soft sand, almost every beach is the right beach along Michigan's southwest shore . But in the towns like St. Joseph, Holland, South Haven, Grand Haven and Ludington, travelers find distinct flavors catering to a variety of tastes. Kids will love experiences like exploring the Curious Kids' Museum in St. Joseph, seeing Windmill Island Gardens in Holland, and sailing on Friends Good Will out of South Haven.

Medora, North Dakota

Tiny Medora (population: 132) makes a good base to explore Theodore Roosevelt National Park . Learn about Roosevelt's legacy at activities in town, then head out—by bike, foot, car or horse—to explore the stark beauty of the badlands. The Medora Musical brings singing, dancing and boot-scootin' tunes to the Burning Hills Amphitheatre; celebrate cowboy culture at the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame.

Wichita, Kansas

Cowboys pushing cattle across the Kansas prairie longed for a view of Wichita on the horizon. Today, the city of almost 400,000 still makes a great destination. Families will enjoy the themed gardens at Botanica ; at the Downing Children's Garden, even adults can't resist plunking away on unconventional instruments. Exploration Place offers interactive activities like designing an airline seat and testing landing gear; at Field Station: Dinosaurs , more than 40 life-size animatronic dinosaurs roar in a dreamland for budding paleontologists (in Derby, 11 miles south of Wichita). More great stops for the family: Kansas Aviation Museum , Old Cowtown Museum and Sedgwick County Zoo .

St. Paul and Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Twin Cities embrace the outdoors with family-friendly attractions such as Valleyfair amusement park , beaches (really!), Twins baseball and the Minnesota Zoo , but there's plenty inside to keep kids busy when the weather's too hot, cold or wet. The Minnesota Children's Museum, the Science Museum of Minnesota and Mill City Museum are just a few of the Twin Cities' attractions that will keep the kids—and their parents—entertained.

Hayward, Wisconsin

In northwest Wisconsin, days bring hiking in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and paddling the Namekagon River; nights bring campfires, cozy cabins and starry skies. The kids will love going to Scheer's Lumberjack Show , snapping a photo in front of the half-city-block-long leaping musky at the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame and getting giant scoops of ice cream at West's Hayward Dairy and Ice Cream Café .

Museums, parks, science centers and outdoor adventures—Cleveland rocks your Midwest weekend getaway with tons of fun stuff to do with the family. Play mad scientist at the Great Lakes Science Center , across the street from the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum . Relive the cult classic A Christmas Story at A Christmas Story House and Museum, or explore dinosaurs at the Cleveland Museum of Natural History .

Read more about top things to do with kids in Cleveland.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Settle in at your choice of Lake of the Ozarks resorts, cabins or hotels, then spend your days exploring the vast lake or the towns like Osage Beach that surround it. Taste fudge or dine in a family-friendly restaurant along the Bagnell Dam Strip; explore Bridal Cave or Ha Ha Tonka State Park; or just relax by the pool or floating on the lake at lodgings such as The Lodge of Four Seasons or Point Randall Resort.

Museums, a zoo, baseball, cars, waterfront attractions, pizza ... a Midwest weekend getaway to Detroit is enough to make anyone feel like a kid again. Try hands-on experiments at the Michigan Science Center or spend the day immersed in history at The Henry Ford Museum and Greenfield Village . The Detroit International Riverfront gives kids plenty of room to run, and the Outdoor Adventure Center delivers ways to try a variety of adventures.

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison—the capital of Wisconsin and the home of the University of Wisconsin Badgers—is often billed as an active, athletic town. It's also a great place to bring your family . Whether you've got preschoolers, tweens or teens in tow, there's plenty to see and do, including the Madison Children's Museum , Henry Vilas Zoo , Olbrich Botanical Gardens and the National Mustard Museum .

Kansas City, Missouri

With the combined Oceans of Fun and Worlds of Fun parks, Legoland , the Kansas City Zoo and more, families will find plenty to fill a Midwest weekend getaway to Kansas City , Missouri. Enjoy interactive exhibits at the College Basketball Experience , explore underwater creatures at the Sea Life Aquarium and pop over the border to Kansas to experience the Moon Marble Company .

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Drive 50 miles southeast of Columbus and you'll feel like you've entered another world—one of lush forests dotted with caves, gorges and waterfalls. The whole family will love exploring Hocking Hills State Park , and be sure to take the kids to adventures such as ziplining at Hocking Hills Canopy Tours , horseback riding at Spotted Horse Ranch and canoeing or playing miniature golf at Hocking Hills Adventures .

Springfield, Illinois

Springfield delivers both serious history lessons and light-hearted slices of Americana . But the city where Lincoln lived is known for informative sites that put a relatable face on a larger-than-life figure. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum provides a good intro to the 16th president; the Lincoln Home National Historic Site and Lincoln's New Salem State Historic Site (near Petersburg, 20 miles northwest of Springfield) will also intrigue young history lovers. Kids and parents will both enjoy the Route 66 memorabilia—and a corn dog—at Springfield's Cozy Dog Drive In .

There's much to do in Iowa's state capitol . At Adventureland Resort , the Bernie's Barnyard kids area recently joined 100-plus rides and attractions. Head for thrills on the $9 million Monster steel roller coaster or cool off at Iowa's longest lazy river. Elsewhere in the metro, catch a seal show at the Blank Park Zoo , try hands-on science at the Science Center of Iowa , wander among world-class sculptures at the John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park , and explore three eras of farms at Living History Farms .

Weekend getaways to Milwaukee keep kids busy and feed their imaginations with family-friendly museums, a zoo and science center. At Discovery World , 18 exhibits encourage exploring science and technology at a waterfront museum. The Harley-Davidson Museum is a must-see for its hands-on exhibits and nine Harleys to "ride." Kids can even get in on a little of the city's brewing action at Sprecher Brewery , which makes soda pop as well as the adult stuff.

• Last Updated On
• September 6, 2023

13 Best Midwest Family Resorts — That All Ages Love!

Traveling Midwest?

Take a break from the road and reward yourself with a much-needed relaxation time. 

Luckily, the region is a haven of vacation destinations, including various family resorts.

As a certified traveler, I’ve explored the whole of the Midwest, from Illinois to Wisconsin.

And along the way, before I knew it, I had already visited quite a few resorts in the region with my family.

So if you’re planning a resort vacation with your family in the area but not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place.

In this article, I will compare and review the best Midwest family resorts.

I’ll talk about my personal experience and insights I’ve gathered from locals and other guests during our trips.

To make the comparisons clearer, I’ll use the following criteria in rating each destination: child-friendly activities, family accommodations, dining, security, value, and location.

So, tell the whole family the good news, and check out my review and tips below.

Best Midwest Family Resorts Compared 

Family resort destinations in the Midwest vary from state to state. 

Here’s how I ranked my best picks for family resorts in the region, with Wisconsin, Missouri, and Michigan coming out on top.

Editor’s Choice

The Abbey Resort — Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

Midwest getaways at the Abbey Resort, Lake Geneva’s sole directly-located-on-the-lakeshore offering, are replete with a range of family-friendly activities and assured downtime for all the members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest!

• Kid-friendly Activities: 5/5
• Family Accommodations: 5/5
• Dining Options: 5/5
• Safety and Security: 4/5
• Value for Money: 4.5/5
• Location and Accessibility: 4/5

#2nd Best Choice

Osthoff Resort — Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

Barely an hour away from Milwaukee, the Elkhart Lake’s Osthoff Resort is a haven of crystal-clear waters and small-town charm.

• Family Accommodations: 4/5
• Dining Options: 4/5
• Safety and Security: 5/5

#3rd Best Choice

Thousand Hills Resort and Golf Club

Located a few minutes away from the family-entertainment Branson strip and barely 15 minutes away from Silver Dollar City, the Thousand Hills Resort is a great pick when it comes to Midwest travel ideas for families.

• Kid-friendly Activities: 3.5/5
• Dining Options: 3/5
• Safety and Security: 4.5/5
• Value for Money: 4/5
• Location and Accessibility: 5/5

Here are the top 13 resorts in Midwest for families.

1. The Abbey Resort — Lake Geneva, Wisconsin (Editor’s Choice)

269 Fontana Blvd Fontana-On-Geneva Lake, WI 53125 (262) 275-6811 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Ratings Criteria

• Rainbow Point program
• Lakefront location
•  You can hear the hallway noise from your room

Famously known as the “Newport of the Midwest” thanks to the numerous luxurious lakefront mansions in the area, Lake Geneva is a 90-minute drive north of Chicago.

Thankfully, its opulence doesn’t necessarily extend to the vacationers here — Lake Geneva isn’t reserved just for the owners of those mansions!

Midwest getaways at the Abbey Resort , Lake Geneva’s sole directly-located-on-the-lakeshore offering, are replete with a range of family-friendly activities and assured downtime for all the members of the family, from the youngest to the oldest!

The resort is conveniently located along the Geneva Lakeshore Path, a 21-mile-long walkway that circles the lake and leads you to the doorsteps of mansions owned by the “who’s who” of America.

You could also enjoy the resort’s many family-friendly activities, such as the sailing school, organized activities via the Rainbow Point program, virtual reality entertainment, arcade, paddleboards, bike and water sport equipment rentals, a swim in the resort’s indoor and outdoor pools (one of which is exclusively for the tots), or a walk along the resort’s very own marina, all of which can keep your little ones engaged for hours.

The resort also offers babysitting, cribs and child programs, cementing the resort’s spot on every list of kid-friendly resorts in the Midwest!

Don’t feel like the outdoors?

Lucky then, that the resort’s family rooms and villas all feature chic bathrooms, free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs.

Don’t want to go outdoors but don’t feel like being holed up in your room, either?

Lucky then, that the resort offers some great family dining options, such as the Waterfront Restaurant and Bar for casual dining, the Fontana Grill for fancy dinners and some great Saturday-night prime ribs, and the seasonal Gazebo Grille.

Don’t feel like any of the above?

Well, then, pamper yourself at the resort’s world-class spa.

2. Osthoff Resort — Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

101 Osthoff Ave Elkhart Lake, WI 53020 (855) 876-3399 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Beautiful lakeside setting
• The abundance of kid-friendly activities

Though simple pleasures are the way of life for the good folk of Elkhart Lake, it isn’t necessarily so in this Victorian-looking resort.

Osthoff is home to a spa of national recognition and a Nascar racetrack (Road America) with races, vintage-car displays and a specialized driving school.

The resort also boasts a culinary school, L’ecole de la Maison (very obviously French and therefore, very obviously sophisticated!) that offers classes to both kids and adults (for an additional sum, though).

For the non-fancy types, the resort offers water skiing activities, hiking and biking trails (at the nearby Kettle Moraine State Park) or the facility to rent your own boat.

Many a summer weekend can also be spent enjoying live music at the on-site lakefront patio bar and restaurant.

3. Thousand Hills Resort and Golf Club

245 Wildwood Dr S Branson, MO 65616 (417) 624-7000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

• Scenic Golf Course
• Spacious family rooms
• Limited dining options

The resort offers a variety of accommodation options, in the form of suites, condos and standalone cabins, all spread out in various buildings on the sprawling property.

All accommodation comes equipped with fully-equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi and multiple bedrooms.

The many outdoor pools, indoor pools and sports courts seem to promise some wholesome family fun time, as does the 18-hole golf course.

You can also explore nearby theme parks and water parks in Branson.

After a tiring day of fun in and around the resort, head back to your family room with a DVD from the hotel’s library for a relaxing family movie night, to end your day on the right note!

The hotel also provides cribs on request.

Related: Best Things to Do in The Midwest

4. TownePlace Suites Bowling Green

1818 Cave Mill Rd Bowling Green, KY 42104 (270) 782-4714 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For a cozy, laid-back resort experience, TownePlace Suites Bowling Green is an excellent alternative to The Abbey Resort and Osthoff Resort.

Minutes away from the National Corvette Museum, Mammoth Cave, Lost River Cave and Western Kentucky University, the all-suite TownePlace is a great family vacation option, especially if you have a college student in the brood.

It also welcomes four-legged furry members of the family with open arms, making it a truly inclusive family resort (guests are allowed one pet per room for an additional fee).

What makes the resort a great family pick, apart from Bowling Green, is the indoor swimming pool, replete with pool deck chairs and pool towels.

Families also have a variety of accommodation options, such as studios (with one king-sized bed and a sleeper sofa or two queen-sized beds) or one/two-bedroom suites (the former features a queen-sized bed and a sleeper sofa whereas the latter features a sleeper sofa and a queen-sized bed in each bedroom).

All the suites come equipped with refrigerators, microwaves, stovetops, dishwashers, free Wi-Fi and a fully-functional kitchen.

Guests of the resort can also enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each day of their stay.

Also See: Lake Resorts Best Family Resorts on The East Coast

5. White Birch Lodge — Elk Rapids, Michigan

571 Meguzee Point Rd Elk Rapids, MI 49629 (231) 264-8271 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The White Birch Lodge is the place to be for all water-sport enthusiasts; this Northern Michigan family resort boasts an almost-unparalleled range of water activities, from kayaking and paddleboarding to sailing and tubing.

Even better, water sports here are a family affair, with daily wakeboarding and water skiing lessons for all members of the family.

The resort follows a lodging system that’s tiered, with rooms to suit different tastes, preferences and family sizes!

You can choose from a variety of accommodation, such as multi-bedroom condos and smaller cabins.

The 40-acre resort is all-inclusive and meals are either served at the beachfront deck or the dining hall in the lodge.

Keeping the tykes and tots engaged won’t be a problem at the White Birch, with its super-fun range of complimentary daily kids’ activities organized by the staff (mostly college-age) such as art-and-craft sessions, scavenger hunts, soccer, basketball and volleyball.

For some wholesome family fun, head to the tennis court or enjoy some shuffleboard and horseshoes.

One of White Birch Lodge’s most attractive features is its popular tradition of a weekly water ski variety show put up by its staff, with a 2-tier, 5-person pyramid-on-skis being the showstopper.

One important thing to note is that to book a stay here means a minimum of a one-week vacation.

Given all that the lodge has to offer, though, I wouldn’t say there’s much cause for complaint!

6. Madden’s on Gull Lake — Brainerd, Minnesota

11266 Pine Beach Peninsula Brainerd, MN 56401 (218) 829-2811 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Head to the Madden’s on Gull Lake in “The Gopher State” (130 miles north of the Twin Cities) for sunny days of non-stop fun and quiet evenings filled with stories and the smell of roasting s’mores around the fire.

Run by the Madden family, this old-school resort offers guests 2 miles of pristine shoreline and a range of water activities such as tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing and a pontoon boat cruise for all naturalists.

For those looking for a relaxing time, the lake’s half-mile beach is the perfect spot to kick back and breathe in the fresh air.

There are also activities such as croquet, lawn bowling, golf and tennis on offer, so there’s plenty to keep you occupied and ensure there’s hardly a dull moment for you, as well as an in-house daily kids’ program (Adventure Cove) to ensure there’s never a dull moment for your little ones.

The program, for kids between the ages of 4 and 12, is included in the resort’s rates and is chock-full of dusk-to-dawn activities that will make the tykes never want to leave!

There are just as many indoor-game offerings as there are outdoor, with big-screen movie nights and fun games such as Bingo to up the healthy competition.

The resort completely understands that it’s not possible to fully wean yourself off the pleasures of the city, which is why they also have a world-class spa, 5 on-site restaurants, and 287 fancy accommodation options split between hotels, villas and cottages.

Hardly surprising then, that Madden’s makes it to my list of top Midwest family vacation resorts!

Also See: Luxury Family Resorts Best Northeast Resort for Families

7. Grand View Lodge — Nisswa, Minnesota

23521 Nokomis Ave Nisswa, MN 56468 (218) 963-2234 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The hunting-lodge “feels” are complete in the Grand View Lodge , with its stuffed moose head and antler chandeliers.

Approximately 2 hours away from the Twin Cities, don’t let the stuffed-animal decor fool you into thinking that this is another Schrute farm; the Grand View Lodge not only offers horse rides and pontoon boats but world-class spa treatments, complimentary Wi-Fi and cable TV as well!

Catch postcard-worthy views of the lake and the resort’s immaculately-maintained lawn while relaxing on the whitewashed Adirondack chairs, or burn some calories at the tennis court and golf course.

The resort also offers a great kids’ club as well as a waterslide-equipped indoor pool.

In the Cote family since 1937, the Grand View Lodge is timeless yet in touch with the contemporary world, with a combination of vintage decor and photos and 200 modern lodge rooms, townhouses and cabins.

To further add to its allure, the lodge is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, rolling fun and historical relevance into probably the most unique offering among all vacation resorts in the Midwest.

8. Big Cedar Lodge — Ridgedale, Missouri

190 Top of the Rock Rd Ridgedale, MO 65739 (417) 335-2777 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Owned by Johnny Morris, the founder of Bass Pro Shops, Big Cedar Lodge has its outdoor theme of 60,000 acres of “family-friendly” and “laid back vacation” rolled into one, on Table Rock Lake.

For fishing enthusiasts, the resort’s 100 boat slips and matching decor are probable pleasers, as well as the resort’s half-an-hour-away location from Morris’ first bait shop.

Don’t worry if fishing isn’t your jam; the huge property is a wonderland of outdoor activities (land and lake) such as horseback riding, kayaking, hiking and water skiing, to name a few.

You could also enjoy an outing to the apparent “Live Music Capital of the World”, Branson, for a ton of live performances in its 50-plus theaters, ranging from comedy to country music to Osmon Family reunions.

Hello, family-friendly Vegas!

For those days of self-indulgence, head to the resort’s classy spa or enjoy some downtime in the resort’s log cabins and luxurious hotel rooms in any of the 3 lodges.

9. The Beacons of Minocqua — Minocqua, Wisconsin

8250 Northern Rd Minocqua, WI 54548 (715) 356-5515 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The northern Wisconsin town of Minocqua is the place to be for a true-blue North Woods experience, replete with your private cabin nestled deep in the woods on the shores of a beautiful lake.

An oasis of calm, the Beacons vacation resort in the Midwest is a 13-acre resort that manages to maintain its seclusion and privacy without compromising on its accessibility to the town.

Minocqua is within walking distance and is full of family-friendly places, such as Thirsty Whale, with its weekly fish-fry-on-the-porch Friday’s, ice creams parlors that serve vintage-style sundaes, or the free-of-cost water ski shows put up by the Min-Aqua Bats every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday night.

The whole family is also sure to be delighted by Scheer’s Lumberjack Show.

The Beacons of Minocqua has 81 units and guests can enjoy a range of activities such as volleyball, horseshoes, swims in the outdoor pool, story swaps around a bonfire or a movie night under the stars.

You can also rent bikes, boats and canoes.

When it comes to accommodation, families can pick among one, two or three-bedroom condos, a cottage, a studio or log cabins; most of these come equipped with spacious bathrooms, spacious bedrooms, internet accessibility, a private balcony that plays host to some spectacular lake views, televisions, a fully-equipped kitchen and a fireplace.

Also See: Family Reunion Destinations Best Family Resorts: New England

10. The Homestead — Glen Arbor, Michigan

1 Woodridge Rd Glen Arbor, MI 49636 (231) 334-5000 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

The Homestead is one of Northern Michigan’s prime offerings for Midwest family vacations.

Home to a stunning mile of Lake Michigan’s beachfront and close proximity to the 35 miles of immaculate coastline at the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, the Homestead offers visiting families postcard-worthy views and quiet beaches.

However, it isn’t just about the views at the Homestead; families can have a ton of fun at the resort’s golf course, pools and tennis court, or even go kayaking and windsurfing.

For some time off from the kids, enroll them in the resort’s super-fun kids’ club while you and your partner enjoy a relaxing couple’s massage at the spa or a fancy dinner at any of the property’s 4 dining options.

You could also plan an outing to the neighboring Traverse City, the nation’s “Cherry Capital” and home to the National Cherry Festival.

Held every July, the festival is a family-friendly party replete with cherry-spitting and pie-eating contests.

However, don’t let that fool you — you’ll also find that Traverse is home to some of the country’s best microbreweries and wineries.

11. Oak Cove Resort — Lawrence, Michigan

58881 46th St Lawrence, MI 49064 (269) 674-8228 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

For an old-school, laid-back resort experience, Oak Cove Resort is an excellent alternative to The Abbey Resort and Big Cedar Lodge.

“The Great Lakes State” has another family-friendly ace up its sleeve — the Oak Cove Resort, a proudly old-school South Michigan paradise where “laid back” is the keyword.

Roughly two hours east of Chicago, the Oak Cove is one of the top family resorts in the Midwest, complete with an arcade, jukebox, pinball machine and a no-TV policy for some undeterred family-bonding time (before the panic sets in, know that complimentary Wi-Fi is still available!).

However, you may just end up not missing the technology, given the resort’s canoes, game room, water sports, paddleboats, bikes, kayaks and a heated pool, to boot.

You can also head to Paw Paw, closeby, for its beautiful vineyards.

Oak Cove’s success could be attributed to its gracious owners and hosts of more than 40 years, Susan and Bob Wojcik.

The breakfast and dinner, included as part of the hotel fare (the hotel is all-inclusive), are prepared using locally-sourced ingredients, with a weekly menu designed by Susan to highlight the local produce.

Stuff yourselves with homemade pies and jams, all made from local fruits.

One of the top Midwest resorts, Oak Cove can accommodate around 80 guests in its on-site family rooms and cottages (equipped with kitchenettes) and its offsite 9-room 19th-century farmhouse and coach house.

12. Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort — Illinois

8700 W Chestnut Mountain Rd Galena, IL 61036 (800) 397-1320 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

Obviously, the Midwest isn’t the first option that comes to mind when you think of skiing; if it does come up at all, it is, at best, an afterthought!

Not surprising, given the existence of ski-resorts like Vail or Aspen.

However, don’t discount the Chestnut Mountain Ski Resort based on this!

With a prime location overlooking the Mississippi, the Chestnut is open through the year to visitors but especially captures your heart and fancy in the winter months.

With its relatively steep 475-foot drop, 7-acre terrain park that offers individual and group sessions for learners of all ages and 19 impressive runs from bunny to black diamond, the Chestnut is a great option for a Midwest ski family vacation!

Constructed in 1959, the Chestnut Resort retains a vintage feel with its decor though its amenities are all up-to-date.

The ski-in/ski-out lodge, remote yet close to town, also boasts a classy restaurant and bar with floor-to-ceiling views of the raging Mississippi below.

To further sweeten the deal, the resort’s ski area is just a 15-minute drive away from Galena, with its Victorian buildings, bustling streets, quaint boutiques and gorgeous restaurants.

You can also start off the tykes with skiing as young as 4, thanks to the resort’s skiing lessons.

Related: Best Midwest Ski Resorts for Families

13. Great Wolf Lodge — Sandusky

4600 Milan Rd Sandusky, OH 44870 (800) 641-9653 Visit Website Social Media Open in Google Maps

One of the 14 Great Wolf offerings around the States, the Great Wolf Lodge at Sandusky leaves families spoilt for choice with its 271 guestrooms, indoor water park with water slides, a lazy river and splash attractions, outdoor swimming pool, a host of kid-friendly activities and a ton of other family-friendly fun (it’s even a non-smoking hotel!).

The lodge has a daily offering of family-friendly activities, along with kids’ activities such as the Great Clock Tower Show, the MagiQuest experience and Story Time.

Families can avail free Pack n’ Play cribs (though these are first-come, first-serve) and free Wi-Fi, while kids can have their share of fun thanks to the resort’s kids’ program and a game room.

They even have a kids’ spa, to add the already long list of activities such as the Wolf Walk hike, Creation Station, Cub Club, Snowland and Howl-o-ween (the last two being seasonal).

With regard to rooms, guests can choose among family suites, double queen suites, queen sofa suites, family fireplace suites, wolf den suites, whirlpool fireplace suites, KidCabin suites, loft fireplace suites, and royal bear suites.

All rooms come with microwaves, refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, water park passes for each of the room’s guests and coffeemakers.

The hotel also offers kid-specific amenities such as Suave Kids 2-in-1 Shampoo, Scooops Body Wash and Boogie Wipes.

Just as with everything else, the Great Wolf Lodge leaves guests spoilt for choice with its many dining options, some of which even offer kid-themed menus!

Head to Dunkin’ Donuts, Gitchigoomie Grill, Hungry as a Wolf, Buckets Incredible Craveables and Beat Paw Sweets and Eats, all for their own specific delectable offerings!

Related: Best Hotels in The Midwest

Vacationer’s Guide 

Comparing resorts: which one is right for you.

Choosing the best family resort in the Midwest comes down to your preferences and their pros and cons.

The Abbey Resort in Wisconsin has a charming lakefront location plus a Rainbow Point program to ease your activity planning.

However, you won’t appreciate hearing hallway noise from your room with the slightly thin walls.

Osthoff Resort, on the other hand, offers a charming and picturesque getaway. 

Its prime location on the shores of the beautiful Elkhart Lake sets the stage for a memorable vacation. 

From the refreshing lake for swimming and water sports to the relaxing spa and wellness facilities, there is something for everyone to enjoy. 

But their popularity can sometimes lead to crowded areas during peak seasons.

If you’re a golf enthusiast, you’ll love staying at Thousand Hills Resort and Golf Club. 

It features an exceptional golf course that offers both a challenging and enjoyable experience. 

The scenic surroundings create a serene ambiance for a peaceful retreat. 

The lack of extensive amenities and recreational facilities could be a potential downside.

TownePlace Suites Bowling Green is a convenient and budget-friendly option. 

Situated in the vibrant city of Bowling Green, this hotel offers easy access to various attractions, dining options, and shopping centers. 

Although they lack the comprehensive resort experience that some families want, its affordable rates and central location make it an appealing choice.

How I Picked The Resorts 

As a local travel enthusiast, I have visited each Midwest state, along with several family resorts. 

Aside from my personal experience, my review is backed by research and conversations with locals and guests in each destination.

I aim to provide a holistic review to help you plan a fun, hassle-free resort getaway with your family.

Our Resort Rating Method 

I rate these properties based on the following criteria:

• Kid-friendly Activities: I use this to evaluate the availability and variety of family-friendly amenities at every resort. Does it feature water parks, playgrounds, and kids’ clubs? Does the resort organize events designed specifically for kids? I ask myself these questions whenever I rate this resort’s kid-friendly activities. 
• Family Accommodations: This is used to assess the family accommodations of the resort. Are the rooms spacious? Does it offer family suites with connecting rooms? Can it accommodate families of different sizes? Is there a crib or baby-proofing in every room? These questions are essential whenever I rate the resort’s family accommodations. 
• Dining Options: This evaluates the dining options at the resort. Are there kid-friendly menus or buffet-style dining at the resort? Can the on-site restaurants cater to everyone’s dietary preferences and needs? I use these questions to assess the dining options of every property. 
• Safety and Security: I use this criterion to assess the safety and security of the resorts. Are there lifeguards at the swimming pools? Are the premises secured? Is the staff trained to handle any emergency? I consider these factors when rating the property’s safety and security. 
• Value for Money: This is used to evaluate the value of money provided by the resort. Are the room rates reasonable? Are the services, activities, and amenities suitable for the price? I ask myself these questions to rate the value for money provided by the resort. 
• Location and Accessibility: This measures how accessible the resort is for families. How far is it from the popular family attractions? Is it easily accessible via public transportation? Does the resort offer airport transfers? These are the questions I ask myself when evaluating the property’s location and accessibility. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

What are some all-inclusive family resorts in the midwest.

Some notable all-inclusive family resorts in the Midwest are Oak Cove Resort and White Birch Lodge in Michigan.

Where Are Some Cheap Midwest Family Vacation Destinations?

The Abbey Resort in Wisconsin and The Homestead in Missouri are popular cheap Midwest family vacation destinations, offering a range of affordable, family-friendly amenities.

From the vibe to amenities, we’ve seen how each of the best Midwest family resorts offers a unique experience to visitors.

As I stepped into Osthoff Resort, I was immediately captivated by the charming lakeside setting. 

From swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the lake to kayaking and paddleboarding, there was never a dull moment. 

We also indulged in a spa treatment, pampering ourselves with massages and facials.

For Thousand Hills Resort and Golf Club, it offered us a perfect blend of natural beauty and recreational activities. 

The championship golf course offered a challenging yet enjoyable experience. 

And after a day on the greens, we relaxed by the resort’s swimming pool.

Similarly, our stay at TownePlace Suites Bowling Green in Ohio was an absolute delight. 

We spent an exciting day at the nearby amusement park.

And in the evenings, we tried the city’s vibrant dining scene, discovering hidden culinary gems just a stone’s throw away from the hotel.

But The Abbey Resort was the unanimous family favorite for its lakefront location and fun Rainbow Point program.

We enjoyed all the activities, including the VR entertainment, outdoor pool, biking, and marina.

13 Midwest Family Vacations That Are Packed with Fun

By: Author Elizabeth Ciobanu

Posted on Published: 10/24/2023  - Last updated: 11/13/2023

Ah, the great Midwest. It’s maybe not the most idyllic part of the country for a vacation because it lacks a traditional tropical atmosphere or ski resorts for snow bunnies, but personally, that’s what I love about it!

As an unconventional vacation area, you can experience fewer crowds and overpriced tourist traps.

Unconventional doesn’t mean boring. Anything but! These 13 Midwest vacation destinations prove that fun is always around the corner, even if the beach is miles away.

1. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Few places in the Midwest are as focused on family fun as Wisconsin Dells. Great Wolf Lodge originates here, which is today one of the best indoor water parks in the country (and in Canada!).

Besides the indoor slides and rides, kids can spend the day playing at an arcade, enjoying delicious dining with yummy treats, building stuffed friends at Build-A-Bear Workshop, or being mesmerized by the flashing lights and sounds at the Northern Lights Arcade.

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is another excellent indoor water park to explore, with 125,000 square feet of wet, watery fun and a newly renovated resort with 230 hillside suites.

Your stay includes admission to the Timbavati Wildlife Park , the closest you can get to a safari experience while in the United States.

You can only find Tom Foolery’s Adventure Park in Kalahari, an indoor amusement park with bowling, a lounge, rides, games, an arcade, and kid-friendly food. The selection of rides here includes a carousel, Ferris wheel, laser tag, and go-karts, among others.

» MORE: 11 Great Wolf Lodge Resorts That Lead the Pack

Noah’s Ark Waterpark has the distinction of being the largest in the area. However, since it’s an outdoor water park, it’s only open seasonally. Plan your visit to Wisconsin Dells in the summer to ride the four-person Chameleon, the bowl ride Time Warp, and the Flash Flood.

When your family is through with the best water slides in town, dry off and head to the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory , the premier science attraction in Wisconsin Dells. The hands-on exhibits make learning about science fun.

Follow that up with a visit to the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater for some dazzling entertainment you must see to believe.

After expanding your mind, you’re ready for Wizard Quest , a unique Wisconsin Dells attraction where families must find hidden wizards. It’s a great way to challenge yourselves and work together as a unit.

Wisconsin Dells is known for its golf, including adventure golf at Pirate’s Cove and the Wilderness Resort , which has some of the best golfing in the state. The Wilderness Resort also has eight water parks on its grounds, including four outdoor and four indoor.

They are Cubby’s Cove Indoor Waterpark, the 70,000-square-foot Wild West Waterpark, the Wild Waterdome Water Park, and the 65,000-square-foot Klondike Kavern Waterpark.

Bounce and play all day at Knuckleheads , a trampoline park with an arcade, mini golf, bowling, a ropes course, bumper cars and go-karts, and dark rides. Bigfoot Zipline Tours has some ziplines open year-round, such as the ZipZilla.

2. Branson, Missouri

Although it might seem somewhat off the beaten path, Branson is one of the best places to visit in the Midwest for family excitement and togetherness. Actually, make that one of the best places to visit in the country.

I don’t say that lightly! If your family is into amusements, don’t miss Silver Dollar City in the Ozark Mountains, which TripAdvisor declared its number one theme park in the country. Between the food, the entertainment, and the attractions, the kids will already be in heaven.

Then there are the rides. Each is unique, from roller coasters to plunging water rides, spinning swings, mini coasters for kiddos, and a carousel. Silver Dollar City also has an award-winning outdoor water park open in the summer.

The Track is another amusement park with a location in Branson. It’s known for its looping, twisting go-kart track, but the park also features a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, bumper boats, laser tag, batting cages, laser mazes, mini golf, and an arcade.

Take a ride of a different sort on the Branson Scenic Railway , a daytime train ride with dining. It’s available to ride between March and November.

» MORE: 14 Incredible Things to Do in Branson, Missouri with the Kids

I highly recommend Talking Rocks Cavern , a daily cave tour open all year regardless of the weather. This guided walking tour takes you through a breathtakingly wondrous cave. You’ll learn all about its history as you wander through.

The Butterfly Palace features 1,000 butterflies in exotic, eye-catching colors flitting about. They’re sourced from all over the world. You can do more than watch them – you can also feed them! The Critter Center houses exotic reptiles, and the kids will love the Mirror Maze and Banyan Tree Maze.

The museums in Branson are fascinating, especially the World’s Largest Toy Museum . What kid wouldn’t love that? 

3. Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The fun never stops in Milwaukee! Although it’s mostly known for its bubbling brewery scene, the kid-friendly entertainment here is way plentiful, making it worth your time to bounce over after exhausting your options in Wisconsin Dells.

Incorporate some history into your Wisconsin stay at Wisconsin’s Natural History Museum . This public museum will teach your little ones about zoology, history, geology, botany, and anthropology.

Another great way to learn about zoology is by seeing animals up close and personal, achievable at the Milwaukee County Zoo . This is one of the best zoos in the country, because, besides its huge selection of animals, it has rides!

The Sky Safari is a gondola ride that takes visitors high into the sky. The Sky Adventure Zip Line and Rope Course is as fun as it is challenging, while a ride on the Safari Train or carousel is just fun. Kids can also get around on ScooterPals, a rentable animal-themed scooter service with four fun animal options.

The Mitchell Park Domes are a horticultural conservatory featuring a Tropical Dome, Desert Dome, and Floral Show Dome. These enclosed areas keep the temperatures just right to showcase amazing flora and fauna.

Make it a cultural experience at the Discovery World Science and Technology Museum Milwaukee , the Milwaukee Art Museum , the Harley-Davidson Museum (yes, like the motorcycles), and the East Troy Railroad Museum .

The seasonal Bay Beach Amusement Park in nearby Green Bay overlooks the shining Fox River. Its array of rides features a heart-pumping roller coaster, and events occur all the time at the pavilion, including movies and dances.

4. Chicago, Illinois

The Windy City is one of the premier Midwest family vacations. As one of the biggest cities in the entire country, you and your family will be able to find something to do, no doubt about that.

You could hit up all the major attractions, such as the Lincoln Park Zoo , Field Museum , Shedd Aquarium , Navy Pier on the waterfront, and the Museum of Science + Industry Chicago .

If you’re looking for other unique activities, I’ve got plenty. Chicago Children’s Museum has exhibits for exploration. Kids Town and Treehouse Trails are two permanent exhibits for babies and toddlers curious about the world around them. Both feature crawler and infant play areas.

Older kids will appreciate exhibits like the larger-than-life Storyland, the sky-high Cloud Buster, the crafty Art Studio, the exciting Pritzker Playscape, the Dinosaur Expedition, and Tinkering Lab, where kids can test out their engineering and architectural abilities.

Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower is a glass-enclosed attraction for witnessing the very best of Chicago’s skyscrapers from their vantage point! Rooftop dining is available if you can’t get enough of the view.

Back on ground level, the Brookfield Zoo maybe doesn’t get the lion’s share of visitors (I’m sure you saw what I did there), but it’s still popular. Kids can see animals A through Z and learn from staff about conservation efforts for preserving the world’s most amazing creatures.

» MORE: Road Trip from Chicago to Asheville

Let the good times roll at WhirlyBall , the home of the famous whirlyball game. You play with a scoop like wiffleball. You can also enjoy laser tag, bowling, pop-up games, and yummy eats like burgers and pizza.

Chill out at the Adler Planetarium , which runs shows and events centered around our great universe and the other planets in the solar system.

Of course, no visit to Chicago is complete without going to Millennium Park , the home of Cloud Gate, aka The Bean.

5. Traverse City, Michigan

Michigan’s Traverse City is the biggest city in Northern Michigan and an idyllic place of calm and tranquility.

Beyond its many vineyards are stretches of greenspace that will make you happy you left the video games and smartphones behind. Mt. Holiday is the top ski resort in the area and an inviting spot for a winter getaway.

You can do more than ski here if that’s not your style. Snow tubing, snowboarding, and ziplining are also available for heart-pounding thrills. Replenish your energy at T-Bar & Grill when you exit the slopes.

In the summer, Keith J. Charters Traverse City State Park is 75 acres, including a quarter-mile beach with a beach house. The other features are mini cabins, a lodge, a campground, and trails.

I also recommend spending a day at the Great Lakes Children’s Museum . This museum gets busy, so make your reservations ahead of your visit. Then your children can enjoy the exhibits.

Skill Builder Stations, the Great Lakes Watershed, Water Cycle, and The Hatchery are exhibits for kids between one and three.

Older kids between five and eight shouldn’t miss the exhibits Guardians of the Great Lakes, Shore Prints, Building Bridges, Up Periscope, Lilliputian Puppet Theater, and Waves of Gravity.

6. Hocking Hills State Park

Ohio’s Hocking Hills State Park is an excellent place for an outdoorsy, adventuresome vacation. Situated in lovely Hocking County, the park connects to the Hocking State Forest at points.

This park is 2,300+ acres and has more than 20 miles of hiking trails, which are open all year long. You’ll want to wear your hiking boots to see all seven parts of the park: Hemlock Bridge Trail (which leads to Whispering Cave), Rock House, Old Man’s Cave, the nature preserve Conkle’s Hollow, Cedar Falls, Cantwell Cliffs, and Ash Cave.

» MORE: How Long Does It Take to Drive Across the USA?

When you complete the trails, spend your days picnicking, mountain biking, fishing, boating, or rock climbing. There’s a visitors center at Old Man’s Cave with exhibits and a gift shop.

Stay for a while at the Hocking Hills State Park Campground for RVs and trailers. You can also plan a stay at the Hocking Hills State Park Lodge, which has 81 rooms, a veranda, a Jacuzzi, an outdoor and indoor pool, a barroom, and a restaurant.

7. Lake Geneva

The enchanting Lake Geneva is yet another Wisconsin vacation destination for families to strongly consider. It’s a resort city with charming lakeside elegance.

Excitement awaits! The Grand Geneva Resort offers mountaintop skiing in the frozen winter months. When the snows thaw, it’s time to go horseback riding, play golf, ride a bike, or take an invigorating hike here.

Crazy Coyote’s Cave Arcade features fun games like Down the Clown, Connect 4 Hoops, Milk Jug Toss, Fishbowl Frenzy, Water Gun Fun, and Monster Drop Extreme. Many games print out tickets if you win that you can exchange for fabulous prizes.

Get sky-high at Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures , a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice 2023 award recipient. The tree-lined property you’ll play at is 100 expansive acres, which is how it has the space for nine ziplines of varying heights and a suspended jungle gym with 17 obstacles.

The kids will have a blast conquering the Climbing Tower, which features a vertical obstacle course and three walls. You can take 12 unique ways up!

The Safari Lake Geneva presented by “Jungle” Jay Christie is a drive-through animal experience. Stay in your car, follow the course, and get ready for free-roaming animals like giraffes, zebras, camels, and goats. Let them come up to your window and feed them a bowl of grain, which the park provides to each car.

Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark proves that Wisconsin has all the best indoor water parks around. This resort’s water park is an immense 50,000 square feet with outdoor and indoor attractions.

The indoor temperature is always 86 degrees Fahrenheit, and some of the slides here ascend beyond 30 feet. The lazy river is 500 feet long, so the ride feels fresh from start to finish.

After playing at the park, explore the resort’s other activities, such as bowling, an arcade, and mini golf. Some activities are only available seasonally.

8. Mackinac Island

Michigan’s Mackinac Island is a dream vacation for many families. It’s situated on Lake Huron, with serene views that beckon and call. You’ll naturally relax your pace when vacationing here, taking the time to breathe in the smells and sights of the island.

The starring attraction here is Mackinac Island State Park , the first state park in Michigan, created in 1895. For over a century and a half, the park has remained a focal point of the island. It helps that the park comprises more than 80 percent of the island, which makes spending time here a given.

The glaciers and seas have changed in level for more than 10,000 years, and all its history is preserved here. Far more history comes alive at Mackinac Island State Park, as you can explore Michigan’s fascinating history at landmarks and sites.

Some that you should prioritize seeing are Mission Church in the historic downtown area, the Bark Chapel in honor of the Jesuits from the 1650s, the British Landing Nature Center (open seasonally between May and August), Fort Holmes from the 1810s, the Michigan Governor’s Summer Residence from the early 1900s, and the Scout Barracks.

» MORE: 11 Best Summer Vacation Spots in the U.S.

How about some hiking? Mackinac Island State Park has more than 70 miles of trails and interpreted roads. Not all are paved, so they’re favored by people walking on foot, riding a bike, or taking a horse.

The park runs annual British Landing Nature Programs, with alluring options like the Mackinac Island Botanical Trail on the Arch Rock Bicycle Trail, the Native American Cultural History Trail, a Nature Discovery Walk on the British Land Nature Trial, and Mackinac’s Natural Wonders.

9. Badlands National Park

Discover the Land of Stone and Light at South Dakota’s Badlands National Park . A phenomenal spot for a spring or summer family vacation, Badlands is 224,000 acres, so you can easily make a week or two out of visiting and only then possibly see everything.

Watch the prairies carefully, as you might see a black-footed ferret, prairie dog, bighorn sheep, or bison pop out. Even if you don’t, the lovely prairies are still great to gaze upon.

You’ll do a lot more than looking during your stay at Badlands National Park. The kids can become Badlands Junior Rangers, receiving their own shiny badge for the program completion.

It’s worth waking up early for the serene sunrises over the red mountains. At the very least, consider staying out to see the sunset. Alternatively, you can hop in the car and take Highway 240, also known as the Badlands Loop Road, for a two-hour scenic drive, or drive the Sage Creek Rim Road, a dusty trail.

The Fossil Preparation Lab is a must-see for the kiddos. Paleontologists work here and will gladly show your young ones the fossils they’ve recently unearthed. Keep in mind the Fossil Preparation Lab is only available for tours in the summer.

The White River Visitor Center and Ben Reifel Visitor Center are open across all seasons and include exhibits.

Camp out under the stars in a tent or RV, or book a cabin in Cedar Pass Lodge ahead of your stay.

10. Mount Rushmore National Memorial

The four presidents memorialized in the stone at South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore National Memorial are worth seeing in person instead of in photos, but I recommend this park for more than that. After all, you can see the statues in an hour and be on your merry way.

The memorial is a hiker’s dream, so if you’re an active type of family, it’s a great place to get outside and experience the South Dakota sunshine. The Presidential Trail, which takes between 20 and 45 minutes to hike, has views of stone outcrops and lush pines.

The main view on this trail is that of Mount Rushmore. You’ll be glad you took the time to hike this trail, as the sights are unbelievable.

The Sculptor’s Studio is an awesome learning opportunity to study Gutzon Borglum, who created the statues adorning Mount Rushmore. This is a nice break from hiking and should take less than an hour.

The Lincoln Borglum Visitor Center is another great place for a reprieve. It features museum exhibits and has a 14-minute short movie about how Mount Rushmore came to be, including the carving techniques Borglum utilized.

The Blackberry Trail is a longer one for kids three and up that takes at least an hour to hike. The ranger programs for kiddos will ensconce them in the Mount Rushmore lifestyle, so don’t miss it!

11. Duluth, Minnesota

Take a trip to the port city of Duluth, which overlooks the glass-like, serene Lake Superior. It’s one of the most popular tourist spots in the Midwest for its myriad attractions and entertainment.

The Great Lakes Aquarium has the distinction of being the only aquarium in the nation that uses all freshwater for its exhibits. That does limit the range of creatures you can see, but it makes the Great Lakes Aquarium unlike any other.

Discover your wild side at the Lake Superior Zoo . Kids can see them all, from invertebrates to amphibians and reptiles, birds, and mammals. Animal feedings are sometimes available, elevating this experience. A café and gift shop are also on the grounds.

Immerse yourselves in the locomotive history of Minnesota at the Lake Superior Railroad Museum or by taking a ride on the North Shore Scenic Railroad . This inexpensive ride spans 28 miles across the Lakefront Line, including Two Harbors and Duluth.

» MORE: 15 Toddler-Friendly Theme Parks That Are Fun for All Ages

In the summer, a visit to Park Point is the perfect way to spend the day here. This spot, also known as Minnesota Point, is a sand spit that stretches along Canal Park, dividing the Duluth Harbor Basin, Superior Bay, and Lake Superior.

Park Point has lifeguards in the summer for swimming, volleyball, hiking trails, pavilions, picnic tables, bird watching, boat launches, BBQ grills, and a community center.

Another great public park to add to your itinerary is Bayfront Festival Park . Overlooking Lake Superior’s shores, this park has a long calendar of activities and events, including food, art, entertainment, and music.

The park doesn’t become a ghost zone in the winter. You can scope out the holiday light displays and go ice skating. 

12. Bayfield, Wisconsin

The serene Bayfield, Wisconsin, is another sterling Midwest destination for a family vacation. It’s tiny, having the fewest residents in the state, but that’s part of its charm!

Stroll its quaint streets, popping into stores like the Apostle Islands Booksellers or the Bayfield Artists Guild . Breathe in the smells of the sea when you reach the peak of the Big Ravine on the West Rim Trail.

Explore the Bayfield Maritime Museum to learn of this city’s fascinating nautical past. You can even book a boat tour by day if you’re eager to ride the seas with a guide.

The starring attraction here is Apostles Island National Lakeshore , which has dreamy views of Lake Superior. Unsurprisingly, it’s a hub for aquatic activities, from fishing to boating, kayaking, and scuba diving.

The well-maintained trails here stretch on for more than 50 miles, giving you incredible vantage points of the island on your adventures. The campsites are secluded and quiet, perfect for a night of stargazing, roasting marshmallows, and telling spooky ghost stories.

13. Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland rocks, and you and your family will find that out firsthand! This Midwest wonder on Lake Erie is the only place to see the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame , which will surely be one of the first destinations you visit during your vacation.

Visitors also flock to the house from A Christmas Story , lovingly maintained to look just the way you remember it on the big screen. This spot gets especially busy during the holidays, but you might have better luck visiting during other times of the year.

Experience Cleveland culture by touring the vendors at the West Side Market . You can stock up on beef, desserts, produce, wine, baked goods, herbs, pasta, nuts, maple syrup, and everything in between.

A visit to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo is a must. Get lost in areas of the zoo like The RainForest, the African Savanna, the Wilderness Trek, or the Australian Adventure, seeing animals like cheetahs, lions, gorillas, Asian turtles, and Andean bears.

Continue the fun with an up-close giraffe encounter, African elephant crossing, 4D theater, ziplining on the Eagle Zip Adventure, or riding the Boomerang Line antique train or the Circle of Wildlife carousel.

How about some museums? You know Cleveland’s got ‘em. Make it an educational day at the Great Lakes Science Center , the Cleveland Museum of Natural History , and the Cleveland Museum of Art .

12 Epic Midwest Family Road Trips

From gorgeous state parks to charming towns and bustling cities, there’s nothing quite as nostalgic as driving through the American Midwest .

While most travelers to the USA usually target its bustling cities and gorgeous coasts the Midwest still remains pretty overlooked on most visitors’ radar. Still, this gorgeous region of America is definitely worth exploring, especially for those yearning for an epic road trip filled with excitement, majestic vistas, and spots that give you that back-in-time feeling.

From roads that will have you driving through haunted places in Missouri to chasing waterfalls across Ohio, here are a few of the most epic Midwest road trips that need to be on your radar!

12 Epic Midwest Road Trips

1. chicago to st. louis on route 66, 2. st. louis to kansas city, 3. sault sainte marie to leland michigan road trip, 4. iowa nature adventure, 5. missouri ghost town trail, 6. west virginia midland trail, 7. milwaukee to the wisconsin dells, 8. iowa great river road, 9. post-rock scenic byway in kansas, 10. old red-old ten scenic byway in north dakota, 11. black hills & badlands in south dakota, 12. ohio waterfall road trip.

• More to know before hitting the road in the Midwest

On the lookout for the ultimate Midwest road trip? Look no further than the classic Route 66 from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri, which is also known as “The Mother Road”.

Route 66 actually starts in Chicago and runs all the way to Santa Monica on the West Coast, but if you don’t want to go the entire way, focusing on the Midwest part of the road trip is enough to experience some of the best it has to offer.

Simply put, there is probably no road trip in the entire USA that is as full of classic Americana as the so-called “King of All Roads”. The Midwest portion between Chicago and St. Louis doesn’t slack when it comes to old-fashioned diners, classic service stations, family owned-cafes, cornfields, sleepy towns, and tons of kitschy landmarks.

Start in Chicago, where you can see all the city highlights like the Sears Tower and the Buckingham Fountain before heading to the corner of Michigan Ave. and E. Adams Street, where you’ll find the iconic “Route 66 Starts Here” sign!

Continue onwards to Lyons and check out the Hoffman Tower. Next, head to Joliet and take some time to visit the Joliet Area Historical Museum before hopping back into the car. Along the way, make a stop in the town of Bloomington, where you can stretch your legs by visiting the emblematic Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum.

Other unique sights and landmarks you’ll find along the way are the Railsplitter Covered Wagon and the Watermelon Lincoln Monument in Lincoln, the World’s Largest Ketchup Bottle, the Our Lady of the Highway Shrine, the Soulsby Service Station, and so much more!

Once you catch a glimpse of St. Louis Arch, you’ll know the journey is over, but even then, you’ll still find plenty of incredible things to do in St. Louis to make parting a lil’ easier. For a quintessential Midwest experience (and a great excuse to toast the end of this Midwest road trip), don’t miss out on sipping a few beers at the iconic Anheuser-Busch Brewery.

Starting in St. Louis and ending in Kansas City, this route will take you through some of the most culture-filled cities and quintessential wild terrain in the southern part of the Midwest.

Start off in St. Louis, where you can spend the day checking out the iconic Gateway Arch over the Mississippi River and a couple of unique museums. From here, head to the Lake of the Ozarks , where you’ll get to bask in some serious lakeside fun with gorgeous views all over.

The city of Columbia is next on the itinerary, where you’ll get to choose from a ton of different activities ranging from outdoor adventures at the nearby Finger Lakes State Park to an afternoon spent checking out local works of art at the Columbia Art League .

Cap off your Kansas road trip touring Kansas City’s numerous memorials and statues. Then, change the mood at the American Jazz Museum and take a stroll through Kansas City’s 18th & Vine Historic Jazz District to finish one of the best Midwest road trips with a bang!

Driving from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula to the Lower Peninsula is a jaw-dropping experience and one of the best drives in the Midwest. Starting in Sault Sainte Marie and ending in Leland, it’s hard to beat the majestic wilderness that you’ll get to gawk at the entire way.

Begin in Sault Sainte Marie, a sleepy town perched between Lake Superior and Lake Huron, an ideal lake vacation spot in the Midwest!

From there, head to Tahquamenon Falls State Park for a chance to spend a few hours gazing at striking waterfalls before heading to St. Ignace to hop on the ferry to Mackinac Island. After exploring the island, get ready to cross the Mackinac Bridge to Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, which is commonly dubbed “the mitten” because of its shape.

A must-visit spot in this area of the Midwest is the Headlands International Dark Sky Park for an unforgettable night of stargazing. If you get lucky, you might even get a glimpse of the northern lights!

After a night spent gawking at the stars, you’ll likely feel a bit hungry, so next on your itinerary is Traverse City, which is considered the foodie capital of Michigan! After gorging on as many dishes as you can, head over to Leland where you can explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore to end this epic Midwest road trip.

Bonus detour: If you have the time, make a small detour by driving the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail , where you’ll get to try the local wines at various estates. Can you think of a better way to close out this marvelous road trip?!

Longer to spend in Michigan? Check out some of the best beach towns along the Michigan coast , or our complete collection of scenic driving routes in Michigan

Even though the state of Iowa is often overlooked on most Midwest road trips, the Hawkeye State is actually a place that brims with natural gems if you just know where to look!

Start at Decorah’s Ice Cave , an ice cave you can explore in just a few minutes but acts as a super epic way to begin this Midwest road trip. From there, head over to Dunning’s Springs Park, where you’ll find a striking 200-feet waterfall hidden amid a charming forest.

Next on the itinerary is Effigy Mounds National Monument , which homes over 200 effigy mounds created by Native Americans centuries ago. Although American Indian ceremonial mounds can be found in several locations, Effigy Mounds National Monument harbors many that are shaped like animals!

Another natural highlight deserving a spot in your Iowa road trip is Maquoketa Caves State Park . Here, you can hike and explore tons of caves scattered throughout. Finish your trip at Wildcat Den State Park , where nature and history make a perfect mix that will allow you to hike to stunning geological formations on sandstone bluffs and learn about Iowa’s past at the Pine Creek Grist Mill.

If you’re a fan of the paranormal, this Missouri Ghost Town Road Trip is sure to please.

This unique scenic road trip will have you exploring some of the most haunted places in Missouri, some of which flourished when Route 66 was opened in 1926 and later abandoned when the interstates were built, and Route 66 was rerouted.

The first stop in this spooky Midwest road trip is Arlington , which was a thriving resort town back in the 1860s before it was forgotten and left to deteriorate. The town of Bloodland is next, which was abandoned during World War II and wiped out from the map, leaving only a church bell. Rumor has it that angry displaced residents have haunted the area ever since!

If you’re feeling brave, continue on I-44 until you find the only remains of Possum Trot, a church and a house that sit quietly eight miles southwest of Nixa, where ghost sightings have been reported time after time.

From here, head west to Monark Springs , a small town that was abandoned after a typhoid outbreak in the 1950s. Finally, end your spooky road trip in Georgia City, where the cemetery is all that remains from the once-prosperous town that thrived in the 1860s.

119 miles of pure wild beauty is what the West Virginia Midland Trail is all about.

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Winding through rolling hills, dreamy forests, cascading waterfalls, and idyllic lakes, this scenic byway will take you from one end of West Virginia to the opposite, all while giving you plenty of opportunities to stop and park your car to go on a hike, see plenty of historic sites, and more.

Moreover, there are plenty of farmlands and small towns scattered all over that provide that old country charm. Hico, Ansted, Gauley Bridge, and Mt. Carbons are only some of the spots where you can stop and stretch your legs a bit, grab a bite, or spend the night before hopping back on your car and turning the music back on – preferably John Denver!

This is one of the best Midwest road trips for discovering the highlights of Wisconsin, taking you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ending in the stunning Wisconsin Dells, one of the best family vacation spots in the Midwest .

Take in the highlights of Milwaukee from the food and breweries to its history and gallereis – don’t forget the Harey-Davidson Museum before hitting the road.

Following Lake Michigan to Green Bay you’ll pass through scenic towns such as Port Washington. Make sure to stop in at the Heritage Hill State Historical Park – and maybe catch a Green Bay Packers game?

The Wisconsin Dells await next – the kids will no doubt have their wishlist for “ the Waterpark Capital of the World “, but there are plenty of other outdoor adventures to enjoy. Make some time for a scenic boat tour and try one of the many wineries, breweries and distilleries.

Devil’s Lake State Park is the perfect way to finish your Wisconsin Road Trip.

The Iowa portion of the Great River Road follows the great Mississippi River from Iowa’s northern to southern borders. Another classic Midwest road trip, this route will take you past beautiful landscapes such as farmlands, forests, and sheer bluffs where tons of eagles soar up high.

Along the way, you’ll also find many charming river towns with friendly people and interesting sites worth checking out. Think Al Capone’s hideout – the Julien Hotel in Dubuque – or Le Claire’s famous vintage shops, including the one featured in American Pickers!

Other points of interest along the Iowa Great River Road are Pikes Peak, the National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium , Eagle Point Park, and the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Gardens.

The Post Rock Scenic Byway is a stretch of byway in Kansas that winds through the Smoky Hills and Wilson Lake.

Even though it’s only 18 miles long, this route doesn’t slack in beautiful vistas and amazing points of interest. As a fun fact, the Post Rock Scenic Byway was named after the limestone rock posts used by Native Americans to build their homes and fences back in the day, some of which you can still admire today!

An important part of the Post-Rock Scenic Byway surrounds Lake Wilson, with many options for scenic stops and trails available for hiking in case you want to linger a while. At the end of the road trip, you’ll also get the chance to explore Lucas, an artistic small town that harbors several galleries and the well-known Garden of Eden, which features more than 150 statues!

Check out even more incredible Kansas scenic driving routes and byways over here

Running parallel to Interstate 94, the Old Red Trail will show you some of the best North Dakota has to offer, ranging from charming farm scenery to clear blue skies, vintage eateries, and quaint little shops filled with treasures to be found. This road is all about taking your time, driving slowly, and enjoying a ride that will make you feel as though you traveled back in time!

Once you pass Hebron, be on the lookout for the Richardton and Schnell Recreation Area , a 2,000-acre nature preserve where you can hit a few hiking trails in order to explore North Dakota’s unraveled nature. Other must-stops are Assumption Abbey in Richardton and Salem Sue, a giant Holstein Cow fiberglass sculpture.

This family road trip includes some of the most iconic landmarks of the Midwest, and some of the most scenic drives.

A classic South Dakota road trip will see you start in Rapid City before traversing the incredible scenery and rugged beauty of Badlands National Park . Make sure to stop in at Wall Drug before venturing west to the Mammoth Site in Hot Springs.

Wind Cave National Park will be your next South Dakota stop. Explore one of the country’s oldest national parks with its fascinating and complex cave system.

Mount Rushmore, along with Crazy Horse Memorial are undoubtedly going to be your next stops. You can see the Presidents’ heads up close on the 0.6-mile Presidential Trail, a short trail walk, or seek out the overlook on SD-244 to see Washington’s profile from a distance. Come on a summer’s evening to witness “Legends in Light” laser light show on the Crazy Horse Memorial.

Make sure to finish your trip with the Peter Norbek Scenic Byway to experience the Cathedral Spires of Custer State Park, often regarded as one of the country’s best scenic byways.

Last but not least, no trip to the Midwest is complete without exploring the stunning waterfalls of Ohio. The Ohio Waterfall Road Trip is the perfect route to take in order to explore the best of them!

Most of Ohio’s finest waterfalls can be found inside state parks, many of which you’ll get the chance to stop at as you drive this Midwest road trip. The Mohican State Park is a must-do stop where you’ll get the chance to see two falls, Big and Little Lyon Falls.

Next on the itinerary, head over to Cuyahoga National Park , where aside from getting plenty of incredible hiking ops, you’ll also get to see the striking 65-feet tall Brandywine Falls. You’ll find the best colors and climate in the fall.

To end your scenic drive in Ohio , drive over to Hocking Hills State Park , which harbors three gorgeous falls and a hiking trail that is commonly ranked as the best in the entire of Ohio!

We hope this list of the most epic Midwest road trips inspired you to grab your car keys, play some Johnny Cash tunes, and hit the road!

More To Know Before Hitting The Road In The Midwest

• Be careful of your time zones traveling through the Midwest! Michigan, Ohio, Kentucky , and Indiana follow Eastern time, whereas Wisconsin, Illinois, the Dakotas, Iowa, Kansas, and Missouri are in Central.
• Never forget an important road trip essential again! Download our family road trip checklist to help you pack for your next big adventure.

Which of these Midwest road trips catch your eye the most? I’d love to know which ones you’re most excited to drive, so let me know all about your plans in the comment section below!

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© Family Road Trip

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31 Best Midwest Family Vacations: City Breaks, Nature Escapes & Fun Things to Do

Ideas for Midwest Family Vacations

From water parks to zoos to museums, the Midwest is packed with fun family activities your family will love. Spend a day hiking, at a theme park, or exploring a new-to-you city. ( Weekend getaway , more like it?)

This article is broken into the best Indiana, Wisconsin, Ohio, Illinois, Michigan and other family vacation destinations in the Midwest.

If you’ve already been to one of these locations or have suggestions for places we should add to the list, leave a comment and let us know about the vacation spot your family loves.

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Indiana Vacation Spots

Have you considered a trip to Indiana? This friendly state is known for its affordable prices, and delicious food. Enjoy the beautiful beaches along Lake Michigan, time your visit for the Indianapolis 500 , the largest single-day sporting event in the world, or check out amusement parks such as Holiday World Theme Park & Splashin’ Safari Water Park for thrill rides and waterslides! If your family loves outdoor activities, Indiana’s natural beauty makes it the perfect destination for hiking, camping, fishing, and boating.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Turkey Run State Park, Indiana

Hike the gorge and enjoy the bridges. Turkey Run State Park is not what you think of when you think of Indiana. Many people like to camp here. In the warmer months, floating the river is popular. Visit the nature center, go horseback riding, go fishing, splash in the pool, or climb the ladders on hiking adventures! Check out Turkey Run and also Shades State Park close by. See also: What To Do At Turkey Run State Park With Your Family Turkey Run State Park by Indy with Kids

Fort Wayne, Indiana

A trip to Fort Wayne is a great time for the whole family. Who knew history and science could be so much fun?! There’s a giant slide inside of Science Central  and an amazing reconstructed Historic Old Fort , both of which you won’t want to miss. Don’t forget your walking shoes! Fort Wayne was made for walkers and bikers and the  Fort Wayne Trail System  did not disappoint.

Wisconsin Vacation Spots

Yes, Wisconsin is famous for its cheese and beer, but there’s lots more to explore in this Midwest state. Lake Geneva is an activity hub throughout the year, with festivals, concerts, and other events taking place regularly, plus watersports, swimming, hiking and biking. Don’t leave without a visit to the restored Yerkes Observatory , home to the largest refracting telescope in the world! Looking for a family-friendly city? Madison is home to the Henry Vilas zoo (admission is FREE!), Olbrich botanical gardens and the Madison Children’s Museum .

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Door County, Wisconsin

Ohio Family Vacation Spots

We’re not sure why Ohio is often overlooked as a destination for Midwest family vacations but we’re going to give it some love right now! This large state is packed with hidden gems, both natural and man-made. Here is where you should spend your time:

Cleveland, Ohio

Hocking Hills, Ohio

If you are an adventurous family who love to be active in the great outdoors, then Hocking Hills is the place for you. Kid-friendly options for a variety of ages include: – Canoeing, kayaking or tubing down the Hocking River – Rappelling, climbing or scrambling through the incredible rock formations – Seeing the scenery from above on a zipline adventure A must-see is the spectacular A sh Cave – the largest, most impressive recess cave in the state. Plus, marvel at the 7 waterfalls in Hocking Hills State Park, the most famous being Cedar Falls. Can you visit them all?

Cincinnati, Ohio

If you’re in Cincy, you’re in the land of 365 Cincinnati .  Check out Bridgett’s website for the latest on what to do in her cool town. Be sure to put the Newport Aquarium on your to-do list, as well as the beloved Cincinnati Zoo . As far as Cincinnati museums go, they are top notch. Bridgett reports that the Cincinnati Art Museum is great for all ages. The Cincinnati Museum Center includes The Cincinnati History Museum , The  Museum of Natural History and Science , and The Children’s Museum . Don’t miss it! Before you leave, be sure to check out Fountain Square to see what’s going on there. Fountain Square is a public space where Cincinnatians gather for special events, free concerts, tailgates, an outdoor market, and more.

Missouri Vacation Spots

St. Louis, Missouri

More favorite stops:

• Missouri Botanical Gardens
• Ted Drewe’s Frozen Custard
• Magic House Children’s Museum

Branson, Missouri

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

Float the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri

Illinois Vacation Spots

Why choose Ilinois for one of your Midwest family vacations? Of course there are the bright lights and sights of Chicago, but if your family loves a historical vibe, then Illinois is perfect. The state is also known as the “Land of Lincoln”, as Abraham Lincoln spent most of his adult life there. Visit some of the best Lincoln landmarks: – Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum . The immersive displays and shows really bring history to life! – Lincoln’s Home in Springfield. Get a sense of Lincoln the family man. – Lincoln’s Tomb . View the final resting place of Lincoln, his wife Mary, and 3 of their 4 sons.

Chicago, Illinois

• The Museum of Science and Industry
• Shedd Aquarium 403
• American Girl Doll Store & LEGO Store while you shop the Magnificent Mile
• Brookfield Zoo 404

Maggie Daley Park

We visited Maggie Daley Park in the winter when the skating ribbon was covered in ice. Summer months promise rollerblading and a rock-climbing wall. Also, DO NOT MISS Slide Crater Park. Unbelievable! Located near Millennium Park.

Don’t forget exploring Old Town, China Town, or the Gold Coast, along with taking in new restaurants, big-city events, or riding the subway, L or water taxi.

*Inside Scoop: you get into the Museum of Science and Industry, and other places, FREE when you use your Grand Rapids Public Museum Membership !

If you want to take in a show or visit places like the Skydeck while you’re there, check out GOLDSTAR  or CityPass for discounted tickets before you go.

Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

Kentucky Vacation Spots

The children may just be begging to visit the home of KFC, but there are plenty of things to do with kids in Kentucky. Red River Gorge is a must-see natural wonder. Ride the Skylift to view the Natural Bridge , or try the Whittleton Falls trail. It’s a 1.5 mile loop, perfect for younger family members, and it ends at a beautiful waterfall! For a truly magical stay, channel your inner pirate and book a cliff house suspended above the gorge for a trip the kids won’t ever forget.

Louisville, Kentucky

• Things to do in Louisville, KY for the Ultimate Family Fun Experience
• Louisville Family Fun Website

Mammoth Caves National Park, Kentucky

Tennessee Vacation Spots

Tennessee is so much more than just the home of Nashville and Jack Daniels whiskey. There are plenty of fun attractions for kids! Visit the Children’s Museum of Memphis , a hands-on museum that offers interactive exhibits and activities for kids to learn through play. Don’t miss the new Bubble Gardens, open Memorial Day through Labor Day. Check out the Adventure Science Center in Nashville and experience their totally unique and immersive Infinium exhibit. Why should kids have all the fun? Take a tour of the Jack Daniel’s Distillery. While kids can’t sample the whiskey, they can still take a tour and learn about the history of this famous Tennessee whiskey.

Smoky Mountains – Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee

• Ultimate Guide to Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
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Nashville, TN

When in Nashville, go hiking, take in live music and be sure to visit the  botanical gardens .

You can also take a plantation tour at  Belle Meade Plantation  and get a look at how plantations of the south used to be… tour the mansion, the stables, and see the gardens. There are old house tours, civil war cemeteries, and other historical opportunities, too.

Or walk through the  Opryland Hotel . The glass atriums contain nine acres of lush indoor gardens, winding rivers and pathways, and sparkling waterfalls where you’ll find shopping and restaurants to add to the adventure.

Nashville’s Dragon Park is a free children’s park that most kids will love to explore. Also consider stopping at the  Nashville Zoo ,  Centennial Park  features a Parthenon replica that is modeled exactly like the one in Greece.  Gruhn Guitars  is a great little stop, they have some very old and expensive instruments.

The city has plenty of good food and music during the day at bars along with lots of fun shops.

Downtown Nashville at night is really fun but not necessarily kid-friendly.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

• Chattanooga is famous for their impressive aquarium
• Minor league baseball
• Children’s Museum
• a pedestrian bridge over the river
• The incline railway where trolley-style cars climb Lookout Mountain – straight up!
• Rock City – here’s where you go to see massive ancient rock formations, gardens, and breathtaking “See 7 States” panoramic views. Take the Enchanted Trail and experience Fairyland Caverns and Mother Goose Village.
• Ruby Falls is a lot like Mammoth Caves… kids love it!

Overall, there’s a lot to love about Chattanooga!

• The Ultimate Guide to Vacation in Chattanooga with Kids

Just over an hour to the northwest of Chattanooga is The Lost Sea (America’s largest underground lake) in Sweetwater, TN. You can take a boat ride underground.

Michigan Vacation Spots

Known for its Great Lakes coastline, Michigan offers a prime Midwest family vacation destination. Below is a taste of what Michigan has to offer. (Dig deeper with 14 best Michigan vacation spots . ) These are great vacation spots for spring break, fall break, winter, or a summer getaway.

Detroit, Michigan

Mackinac Island

Michigan’s Adventure

Michigan’s Adventure is an amusement and water park open from the end of May to early September, so pack your swimwear for a fun-packed family day out! Will you be brave enough to try the epic Shivering Timbers? The park’s signature ride is the longest and fastest wooden rollercoaster in the state. When we go as a family, we tend to head straight to the water park lockers to put our stuff away, then enjoy some rides in the main park, before the water park opens at midday. You can’t take picnics in with you, so either get lunch outside of peak times inside the park to avoid long queues or pop a cooler in your car and head back to the parking lot to grab lunch. You will be given a ticket for re-entry. For more tips, check out our article on all you need to know for a day out at Michigan’s Adventure.

Grand Rapids, Michigan

Frankenmuth, Michigan

Traverse City, Michigan

Summertime calls for cherry picking, brewery visits, and of course, beach days.

In the winter, go snow tubing at Mt. Holiday or ski on the VASA trail.

Kalamazoo, Michigan

Lansing, Michigan

Boyne Mountain Resort & Petoskey, MI

 1 Boyne Mountain Rd, Boyne Falls, MI 49713

Muskegon, Michigan

Muskegon is a small Lake Michigan city with a direct ferry connection to a much larger Midwest vacation spot for families: Milwaukee . While you’re in town be sure to stop by Lake Michigan. The Muskegon Harbor beach is expansive and lots of fun even on a cool spring day. It’s a great place to fly a kite. Muskegon is also home to USS Silversides – a real, restored WWII submarine. This memorial and museum uniquely offers overnight experiences for groups and the general public and has been delighting West Michigan families for generations.

LEGOLAND & Sea Life Aquarium at Great Lakes Crossings

4000 Baldwin Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326

More to Consider While Planning Midwest Family Vacations

There’s something special about getting travel advice from people who are in at a similar stage of life. Check out these articles. Let us know if there are questions you have that we haven’t answered. Wondering about a specific destination? Ask – we might be able to help!

About The Author

GRKIDS Team

37 thoughts on “31 best midwest family vacations: city breaks, nature escapes & fun things to do”.

Hello-curious where in traverse city is the playground is that is pictured under that section? Thanks for all the wonderful ideas!

Hi melody, As a seasoned mom and now grandma I love road trips and I loved reading your ideas and inspirational tips … Don’t let people like Cindy 🙂 get you down! It takes optimism to throw your kids in the car and just go for it … Head to a new place … See what you can find there and explore! Have the fun is in the underplanning! Our best family memories were and are made in the adventures we created on the spot!

So thanks for loving my home town ! Thanks for some great ideas that I’m going to use on an impromptu summer getaway… Keep it up and to all the road trippers out there : there’s one thing you can’t control and that’s traffic! So just go with the flow. Pack some snacks and games! You guys all have TV’s and all sorts of toys to keep your kids happy happy happy !!!!! 🙂 if it takes a little longer getting there that’s just part of the adventure.

I’m a travel agent. Shoot me an email and I’ll send you some options. [email protected] . I booked my kids and I to LA a couple months ago and it was super cheap. The earlier you can book, the better 🙂

Lindsey DeYoung

First I’m laughing at the drive times, you should check drive times, all are from Grand Rapids and still optimistic especially if you are traveling with children – and why else are you going. You really don’t want to arrive with crabby children who have been sitting for hours with nothing to do. If you live outside of GR adjust your times accordingly. Also drive times do not include stops for gas and/or food, traffic holdups, be aware of this as you make your plans. You will not be able to drive 90 mph all the time.

You also must plan a place to stay overnight if you plan to do anything in any of these cities so, especially at Spring Break, make reservations. I have been in some of these cities at Spring Break without hotel reservations, and the only rooms left are in places I wouldn’t stay. I highly recommend calling ahead or checking the internet to make reservations for many of the popular events because you can’t just park and walk in immediately. Some events are completely books weeks ahead.

In Indianapolis, consider the Zoo with it’s shark petting tank, Go Ape: Treetop Adventure, take your bikes and ride the Culture Trail which connects to the Monon Rail Trail for approx 15 miles (one-way) of riding, the trail is also walkable, White River State Park is downtown.

In St. Louis don’t forget the famous St. Louis Zoo, botanical gardens, science center, The Gateway Arch was mentioned, try it at night – highly recommend making reservations days ahead, The Magic House, Grant’s Farm where the Budweiser Clydesdales are housed, Purina Farm (family friendly), City Museum and for fun a St. Louis Cardinals game.

Mammoth Cave is a fun stop, I’d recommend a hotel at Horse Cave, Ky just off the expressway. If you are making plans to tour Mammoth Cave, make resevations! You might be too late already. I called 2 weeks before Spring Break a few years ago and they laughed at me because I thought I could make reservations at that late date.

With young children I would highly recommend Chattanooga as a 2-day trip. Ten + hours one day trip is highly optimistic with young children. Chattanooga is a great history trip. Up on Missionary Ridge there are plaques showing the process of the Civil War. I found my great-grandfather’s troop’s trek up Missionary Ridge as a Union Soldier.

Too long of a comment, but from my own experiences in the past 5-6 years.

Hi Cindy, Thanks for all of your ideas! And yes,the drive times are straight from Google Maps from Grand Rapids, so of course you will need to add time for stopping. If you’re like me, you try to make it as far as you can early in the day before having to stop too much. And driveable in a day- my intentions were that you could drive to the destination in a day. Spring break is a busy time for many places so reserving a hotel room ahead of time is a good idea.

Michelle Dann

If we could EVER get over all the dang sickness, you guys could come visit us!! NOW..Ziggy has Strep Throat…which has been going around school..and so is barfing flu!! Miss you guys!!!

Kara Taylor

Jerahmi Ballentine

Fred Wilkins

Smoky mountains. Only a 10 hour drive.

I would agree – we had a great time there last fall! Melody, if you’re ever interested in a write-up on the Smokies, I could easily pull one together 🙂

They have a great Children’s Museum and good zoo in Indianapolis!

We always sang and played. Games take charge Lisa

Suzi Petoskey West read this

Thank you, we are thinking of doing the same thing! The information will be helpful!

http://pi-pizza.com/

Our son and family live in St. Louis… here are 2 of our favorite places to eat… http://www.pappyssmokehouse.com/

Ruth VanWalsum Chicago info. Check out the slide. 🙂

We enjoyed St. Louis three years ago. It is a fantastic city. We loved the City museum. We were there when they opened and they kicked us out at closing, with a short picnic out of the back of our car in the middle. The roof is worth the extra cost. We loved the zoo especially petting the sting rays. It may be too early in the season for them but they don’t charge for the first hour the zoo is open to pet them. Turtle park, a park with giant climbable turtle sculptures, made a great first stop to stretch legs after the car ride. We also enjoyed the science center, the arch, walking around downtown and a riverboat ride. We also took the Budweiser tour to see the Clydesdale horses. We were not interested in the rest of the tour. The guide was more than happy to let us out. We were returned to the hospitality room for free beer, soda and pretzels. Such a great city, I could go on and on. Enjoy!

Katie Horgan here is where I read about the park with the slides in Chicago!

What a great list!

Stephanie Kitchen- Walden

Awesome article and great advice. Your website continues to be such a resource for my family. Thank You. 🙂

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Midwest Family Vacations: 8 Road Trip Worthy Getaways in Central USA

In the Midwest , more so than any other part of the country, we love a good  road trip . With vehicles packed and ready for adventure, rest stops meticulously planned to include ‘the world’s biggest this’ or ‘the state’s oldest that’, and a playlist with a little bit of everything for everyone, a road trip means adventure is coming.

Because every road trip needs a destination, I scoured my own memories for the best Midwest  family vacations  we have experienced through the years. From  toddler  to teen, these eight getaways made memories – and called us back for multiple visits!

Connect with Family and the Nature of the Midwest

If the words ‘get away from it all’ describe your dream vacation destination,  Foxfire deluxe cabin in Ohio’s Hocking Hills  may be your perfect getaway. This 3-level cabin in the woods features 4 bedrooms, as well as a second level balcony perfect for a peaceful cup of coffee in the morning and a relaxing evening on the porch swing watching wildlife wander through the ravine below.

The rustic woodland charm continues inside the cabin, where wood hewn furnishings and beam walls compliment the modern conveniences that assure a very comfortable stay. A stone fireplace (with gas fire) in the open plan living area soars to the top of the loft, where a ‘bridge’ connects an en-suite bedroom to its sitting area.

Though the draw in this area is  outdoor activity  and  nature , this cabin calls you back and promises you won’t hear ‘I’m bored’ from the kids. The lower level, with game room, 55″ TV, refrigerator, bedroom, and bathroom, may become the teen hangout. A sure way to get them outside? Build a fire in the nearby firepit and mention s’mores.

While there is no restaurant on site, the modern kitchen and propane grill make it easy to put together meals to enjoy indoors or out on the deck.

Hocking Hills Cabins & Resort Foxfire

A little 'wild west' and a lot of modern comforts in the midwest.

Mount Rushmore Resort & Lodge at Palmer Gulch  makes an impression as soon as you enter the grounds. A riding stable and the false fronted buildings of Turtle Town offer a nod to the area’s ‘wild west’ history and anticipation of things to come. As you enter the lodge, a two-story fireplace, created with granite from the Crazy Horse Memorial, immediately catches your eye, teasing the larger-than-life experiences you will have in  the Black Hills  of  South Dakota .

​One of the best options at this resort is choosing how you stay. Opt for one of the lodge rooms, with fireplaces, kitchenettes, and a balcony. Or rent your own lodge or cabin for the resort experiences with private space. Palmer Gulch is a KOA Resort, so friends and family who prefer to RV and camp can join the fun.

​Amenities at this resort seem never-ending. The Fun Zone has two pools, two heated spas, a  waterslide , and a splash pad. If you prefer to stay dry, you can conquer the climbing wall, shoot hoops, catch air on the jumping pillow, or putt your way through the mini golf course. Explore further with horseback riding and UTV rentals. In the evenings you can relax on a horse drawn wagon ride or settle in for movie night.

​Dining is plentiful at the resort at Palmer Gulch. The Peak Grill & Tap Room offers local flavors in an upscale cabin setting for lunch or dinner. Turtle Town serves a fast food menu featuring fried chicken, gourmet pizzas, and hand-scooped ice cream. Grapes and Grinds is available to begin your day with concoctions brewed with locally roasted coffee beans and end your day at an evening wine tasting and live music.

Lodge at Palmer Gulch

It's always the right time to visit santa in the midwest.

Santa Claus, Indiana, that is. The best place to enjoy Indiana’s resort city is  Lake Rudolph Campground & Resort . You will find a variety of lodging options available, from cottages and cabins to RV rentals. These self-catering accommodations offer a comfortable ‘ glamping ‘ experience with full kitchen, charcoal grill, picnic table, and fire ring at all sites. Cabins and cottages also have a porch or deck – be sure to bring lawn chairs to enjoy a relaxing evening. The resort features daily planned activities that include movies, arts & crafts, and parades. Also within the park are a Santa’s SplashDown Water Park with water slides, splash pad, and cabana rentals, two playgrounds, basketball courts, a lake for paddle boating and fishing (no license required), mini golf, a game room, and nature trails. Though you won’t find full-service restaurants on the resort grounds, nearby Blitzen Kitchen serves pizza, snacks, and ice cream – perfect for those evenings you just don’t feel like cooking.

Lake Rudolph Campground & Rv Resort

Miles away from ordinary in the midwest.

Does your vacation wish list just say, “I want it all”? Then the  Grand Traverse Resort and Spa  in Michigan is the destination for you. This 900 acre resort has everything you could want for a family vacation.

In the hotel, you can choose a room or a suite. These rooms are convenient to the spa, health club, and pools. For more space, opt for a bay side or golf course condominium, just minutes from the resort via shuttle. Available in configurations from studio to three bedroom, condos include a dining area, kitchenette, living room, and private patio or balcony. Larger families and groups will love the space of a private Resort Home. With a full kitchen, fireplace, and deck, as well as full access to resort amenities, you will wish you could move in permanently.

Once you arrive at the Grand Traverse Resort you won’t need (or want) to leave! The property features four pools (two indoor, two out), four hot tubs, an indoor water playground, three championship golf courses, a massive fitness and tennis center with nine tennis courts, an entertainment center, shops, five restaurants, and a world-class spa. Truly, what more could you ask for?

Grand Traverse Resort and Spa

Cozy luxury in the midwest on the landing.

Located in the center of vibrant Branson Landing and at the foot of the historic ‘Branson Strip’, the  Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing  is the best place to experience the excitement and history of this Missouri city in the Ozark Mountains.

Rooms feature a clean, contemporary design and include all the comforts of Hilton Hotels – plush Serenity Beds, an indoor pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. If you’ll be staying more than a couple days choose one of the hotel’s larger suites or condos with extra living space and large balconies. My advice? Pay a little more for the fountain view balcony room. It’s the best view of the spectacular fountain shows that take place daily, every hour from noon-9pm.

If you’re not quite sure what to see and do, the hotel’s knowledgeable concierge can offer recommendations and even assist with reservations. The first restaurant booking to make is at Big Whiskey’s, right in the hotel. A place where ‘traditions are just as important as trends’, the restaurant is known for premium hand cut steaks, big burgers, and a bar menu that is second to none.

Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing

Small town getaway on the midwest's national lakeshore.

Bayfield, Wisconsin has been called the ‘Best Little Town in the Midwest’, and this  downtown condo  is the perfect place to experience everything the area has to offer.

Though this is a great getaway for anyone, I really recommend the location for a getaway with teens and older children. This historic two bed, two bath property is located in downtown Bayfield, just blocks from Lake Superior, boutique shops, and local dining (not a restaurant chain in sight). Older kids will enjoy the freedom to explore this town on their own, and everyone will love the lake vibe and outdoor adventures available.

The house is comfortably furnished and has outdoor seating on both the front porch and rear deck, expanding your room to roam. The well appointed kitchen has all the cooking utensils, plates, dishes, and amenities you need for dining in.

Condo Dtn Bayfield Sleeps 5

The hotel your kids dream about in the midwest.

If there was ever a hotel made specifically for kids, it would have to be Great Wolf Lodge. And the  Great Wolf Lodge in Minnesota , with activities and events for all ages and its terrific location near the Mall of America, is a destination the entire family can agree on.

Great Wolf Lodge is known for its massive indoor waterpark. Families can enjoy a float on the  lazy river , or experience multiple water slides.

While pool experiences for toddlers, teens, and all ages in between are guaranteed to be the focus of your getaway, you may just be surprised by the other fun activities at this resort. Character appearances and an evening story time are popular with the resort’s youngest visitors. Older children will love the ‘magical’ MagiQuest adventure through the hotel and the ‘late night’ dance party. Teen approved activities include the ropes course, arcade, and bowling alley.

There is no need to leave the Lodge for meals. Eight dining options – from sit down meals to grab-and-go snacks, and morning coffee to afternoon ice cream – are available to help you power through an active stay.

This all-suite hotel has a wide variety of room configurations available, with many including bunk beds. For an extra level of fun, book a Cabin Suite which features four bunk beds in a ‘separate cabin’ area.

Great Wolf Lodge Minnesota

A midwest lake getaway with waterpark access.

Dreaming of a  lake getaway  with all the amenities? Enjoy Iowa ‘s Lake Okoboji, and all the excitement that comes with it, in this  3 bed, 2 bath lakeview condo at Bridges Bay Resort . This condo has room for eight, as well as a washer/ dryer, making it a perfect spot for larger families.

The kitchen is fully equipped for meal prep and a roomy pantry offers plenty of space for your mealtime necessities. A gas grill and utensils are also available. Of course you don’t have to cook… You’ll find three delicious restaurants within the resort.

Bridges Bay Resort is a family favorite with plenty of water activities. The large outdoor pool features a swim-up cantina, and the indoor waterpark (open year round) includes waterslides, a lazy river, and a giant whirlpool. You’ll even find a stocked fishing pond, as well as large docks for fishing and swimming at the lake. When you’ve had your fill of watersport, enjoy the zipline, kids arcade, or a workout in the exercise facility.

Main Level Condo, A View Of The Lake & Trees

The Midwestern U.S. is filled with family-friendly attractions that make it one of the best areas to visit for any family looking to enjoy a vacation. From zoos to interactive museums, theme parks and even unique natural parks, there are many different sites and attractions available that will ensure the whole family enjoys the trip.

With wholesome ideals and family-friendly attractions galore, it is a joy to vacation to the Midwest with your family. Check out these beloved all-ages activities to enjoy your time! 

Silver Dollar City

399 Indian Point Rd.   Branson, MO

Take the family to enjoy 40 thrilling rides and live performances and see what life was like in this theme park based on a 19th century mining town. Parents will enjoy seeing demonstrations of candymaking, blacksmithing and picking up some fun old-fashioned souvenirs while kids will be able to scream their lungs out on the 40 thrilling rides, including several kid-friendly water rides and fun shows. There is even a huge natural cave attraction and plenty of information on the history of the Ozarks. Various festivals are held throughout the year including the Star Spangled Summer and An Old Time Christmas celebration.

Saint Louis Zoo

1 Government Dr. St. Louis, MO

Of all the family-friendly attractions on our list, there are none that are as crowd-pleasing as a zoo. So, of course, the St. Louis zoo has to be on our list as one of the best zoos in the Midwest. This attraction has no entry fee and features more than 20,000 animals on site. Children will love seeing the animals in their natural habitats and learning about the different species while adults will be able to indulge their inner child with the sights and memories. The zoo also features numerous shows, restaurants and shops on the 89 acre attraction. As if that wasn't't enough, the Zoo is also located near the Loop [1] , which has a range of shops, restaurants, art galleries, cafes and other attractions that parents and older kids are sure to enjoy.

Field of Dreams Movie Site

28995 Lansing Rd. Dyersville ,   IA

The "Field of Dreams" movie was released in 1989 and became an instant classic, inspiring millions of people to follow their own dreams. Adults and children alike will love the chance to visit the set of the blockbuster film and walk the field themselves. The house used in the film houses a museum about the film, and on Sunday afternoons, intrepid visitors might even get to see the "ghost teams" take the field and play a game or two. This charming Iowa attraction is a must-see for all movie fans and is definitely a great choice for a family outing.

Michigan's Adventu re

4750 Whitehall Rd. Muskegon, MI

Michigan's Adventure is the largest amusement park in Michigan and was originally founded in 1956, making it one of the more historic amusement parks in the country. The park has had a number of updates since it first opened and now combines both wooden roller coasters and more modern options. Many of the rides are child-friendly, but there are enough larger coasters in the park to keep even the most adventurous adult happy.

Gateway Arch

100 Washington Ave. St. Louis, MO

Easily one of the most recognizable structures in the midwest, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is a great attraction for the whole family. Visitors can take rides to the top of the arch or explore the visitor center below which features information about the construction and maintenance of the arch as well as plenty of historical information about the area. There are multiple gift shops and plenty of photo opportunities. While there aren't any restaurants inside the arch, there are several choices nearby including Rober's Ribs [2] , a local favorite.

Legoland Discovery Center

601 N. Martingale Rd. Schaumburg ,   IL

If you're looking for something fun to keep the kids entertained, then Legoland Discover Center near Chicago can't be passed up. Adults and children will be able to expand their imaginations as they build toys and real-life models from LEGOs. The whole family will be able to explore more than nine different attractions, check out the 4D movie theater and, of course, build to their heart's content.

Custer State Park

13329 US Highway 16A Custer, SD  

Families can take a trip back in time when they arrive at Custer State Park located in Black Hills of South Dakota. There is something for everyone, from exploring the more than 71,000 acres of open lands filled with wonderful landscapes to trout fishing. You might even see a herd of bison that calls the park home. There are campgrounds and plenty of places to see including the first location where General Custer's expedition first discovered gold in 1874 and the log cabin that housed South Dakota's first poet laureate, Badger Clark. 

Fantastic Caverns in Springfield, MO

4872 North Farm Road 125 Springfield, MO

One of the natural wonders of the U.S., Fantastic Caverns is one of the top Missouri attractions for the whole family. Unlike many other cave tours, visitors will embark on their journey in a small red tram which allows every member to visit the cave in comfort. Each tour is taken at a slow pace to allow the natural beauty of the caves to be enjoyed, and the site also features a gift shop and visitor center where you can learn more about the caves and pick up a souvenir to take home. If you're looking to make a full day of the expedition, then Springfield, Missouri has plenty of other family-friendly things to do including visiting the lions at the Dickerson Park Zoo [3] and trying out the 1984 Arcade [4] , which features tons of old-fashioned arcade games.

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis

3000 N. Meridian St. Indianapolis ,   IN

The Children's Museum of Indianapolis may be designed for children, but it has plenty to keep every member of the family happy during any visit. Made up of a full five floors of exhibits and interactive fun, this museum is the largest children's museum in the country. Visitors can explore the museum's carousel which was built in 1917 or learn more about science and physics. Different exhibits are available throughout the year, but children and adults alike should expect to get their hands dirty as they explore this exciting learning center. Other family-friendly activities in the area include the Rocket Fizz Soda Pop and Candy Shop [5] , only a few minutes down the road. For even more fun, be sure to embark upon one of the exciting and scenic Circle City Carriage Rides.

Bass Pro Shops

1935 S. Campbell Ave. Springfield, MO  

A trip to the original Bass Pro Shops store in Springfield, Missouri may not seem like a normal family day out, but there is much more to the store than just items for sale. The store features both live and stuffed animal exhibits, complete with waterfalls and other natural formations, making the whole place seem like a museum. Bass Pro Shops is huge and also features a delicious restaurant and a couple of museums, including the NRA Museum which features more than 1,000 guns on display, and the Archery Hall of Fame. There is a cafe, a fudge and coffee shop and various events throughout the year including a fish feeding show, boat exhibits and even a visit from Santa!

Cedar Point

1 Cedar Point Drive Sandusky, OH

Cedar Point is the second oldest amusement park in the United States and it has been entertaining families since it first opened in 1870. The 365 acre park is filled with attractions to keep all the whole family happy. Featuring 72 rides and 16 roller coasters, both thrill seekers and young children will be able to get their fix. The park also has a water park, live entertainment throughout the day and plenty of dining options. It's also nearby several other fun family activities like Sandusky Goofy Golf [6] , a fun miniature golf course which also features go karts, bumper boats, and games for the whole family.

Guthrie Theater

818 S. 2nd St. Minneapolis, MN

For a family looking for something more cultural than an amusement park, the amazing Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis is popular with both children and grown ups. For more than 50 years this theater has given visitors a glimpse into the cultural highlights of the times, featuring top productions of some of the best known national and international plays ever written. Of course, the Guthrie Theater offers much more than the chance to enjoy top rated plays, as it also hosts concerts and other events and features a concession area to keep the kids happy. The theater is also conveniently located near the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden [7] , where the whole family can stretch their legs after a long theater performance and see some fantastic art on the way!

SEA LIFE Aquarium

2475 Grand Blvd. Kansas City ,   MO

While there is no shortage of family-friendly things to do in Kansas City, one attraction that simply shouldn't't be missed is the Sea Life Aquarium. This fun attraction brings you and your whole family nose to nose with sharks, dolphins, sea horses and tons of other aquatic life. Children will love the hands-on areas where they can touch a live starfish or hold a crab and adults will enjoy the up close looks at some of the most wondrous creatures that the oceans have to offer. There are plenty of exciting talks and learning activities available, or visitors can simply wander the aquarium at their own pace.

Santa Claus, IN

For most cities, Christmas only happens once a year, but in the small town of Santa Claus, Indianna, it's a year-round event. From entire stores dedicated to Christmas to a water park that has one of the largest slides in the U.S., both children and adults can have fun at this quaint town. Explore the history of the legendary Christmas figure at the town's own Santa museum, pick up some unique gifts at the Santa Claus Christmas Store [8] and help keep the Christmas spirit alive!

Hot Springs National Park

Hot Springs, AR

Hot Springs National Park, located in Arkansas, features 47 springs and numerous bathhouses which make this a natural wonder that everybody can enjoy. Open areas of land make this a great place for kids to spend their time and energy, while the geological features and unique collections of naturally hot springs make it a fun area to visit for older kids and adults.

American Girl Place in Chicago, IL

609 5th Ave. New York, NY

The American Girl Place in Chicago is the perfect stop for children, especially young girls, but make no mistake; there is enough to see and do to keep everybody happy. This museum and attraction allows visitors the chance to explore the history of the American Girl brand which began as a book series and became one of the top toy brands in the world. Doll enthusiasts will enjoy creating their own doll complete with accessories and more clothing options than you'll know what to do with, and the whole family will enjoy the food and drinks options available. 

Great Lakes Shipwreck Museum & Whitefish Point Light Station 

18335 N. Whitefish Point Rd.   Paradise, MI

This one-of-a-kind museum is filled with information on the perilous travel through the Great Lakes area. The family can tour the oldest operating lighthouse on Lake Superior, which has been in continuous operation for 150 years, and see plenty of artifacts about sailors and ships that traveled in the lakes. This historical and fun attraction will ignite the curiosity of kids and adults alike.

Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum near Detroit, MI

31005 Orchard Lake Road Farmington, MI  

Located outside Detroit, Michigan, Marvin's Marvelous Mechanical Museum is a wonderland of historical machines. From vintage coin-operated museums to modern arcade games, this unusual museum will keep the whole family entertained by the strange, wonderful, antique and interesting exhibits. Some of the machines featured were built specifically for the museum, while others are collectables. Be sure to grab plenty of quarters!

Mt. Rushmore Tour

1600 East St. Patrick Street Rapid City, SD

There are few attractions in South Dakota or the United States as iconic as the Mount Rushmore historic site. No matter what age a family member is, they will enjoy seeing the sculptures of great former U.S. Presidents carved into the side of the mountain. The Mount Rushmore and Black Hills Tour takes in so many sites that every member of a family will be happy to embark on the journey which also features the Crazy Horse Monument and sightseeing in the Black Hills National Forest. The beauty of the forest will make anybody want to enjoy the vast open spaces and amazing outdoor activities the area offers.

The Great Passion Play

935 Passion Play Road Eureka Springs, MO

See and relive the greatest Biblical story ever told at the Great Passion Play, performed live in Eureka Springs, Missouri. More than 100 actors and live animals take the stage to tell of the life and death of Jesus at this amazing performance. Come early and take part in the Holy Lands tour to learn more about this biblical story and the beliefs behind it, and be ready for some discussion between the whole family about the meaning behind this stunning performance.

Mammoth Site of Hot Springs - Hot Springs, SD 

1800 US 18 Bypass Hot Springs, SD

Learn about the ancient mammoths that once roamed the earth at the world's largest mammoth research facility, located in Hot Springs, South Dakota. Kids will love seeing real skeletons of mammoths and other extinct creatures that roamed the earth, and adults will enjoy seeing archaeological films and visiting a real paleontology lab to see how this important research is carried out.

Amish Acres House and Farm Tour

1600 West Market Street Nappanee, IN

The lives of the Amish community of Indiana can be discovered at the amazing Amish Acres tour and visitor center. A mix of live tours and prerecorded videos give the family the chance to find out more about how the Amish community was established and how the members live their everyday lives. Younger children will enjoy the wagon rides and gift shop, while older children and adults can discover more about the Amish way of life and even pick up some unique gifts and souvenirs.

1880 Train Ride Tour

103 Winter Street Keystone, SD

The 1880 Train in the Black Hills of South Dakota really is an attraction with something for the entire family. Setting out on a journey from one of the two stops this historic steam train takes in is a perfect way of exploring many different attractions in the area or simply enjoying a classic ride through beautiful scenery, just like a family in the 19th century might have done. Boxed lunches and train whistles can be purchased to make the trip even more fun. There are two different departure locations: Keystone and Hill City. If you're departing from Hill City, then be sure to stop by Wade's Gold Mill where the whole family can pan for gold and learn about gold mining--the perfect compliment to this 19th century train ride.

Bavarian Village

414 Broadway Wisconsin Dells, WI

The Bavarian Village in Wisconsin Dells brings the sights and sounds of a traditional German to Wisconsin. Easily one of the more charming cultural attractions in the country, children and adults will enjoy watching and taking part in the regular reenactments of traditional Bavarian dancing and the whole family can sample some traditional German foods and drinks at the heart of this German-inspired village.

Wizard of Oz Museum

511 Lincoln St. Wamego, KS

Relive L. Frank Baum's classic story "The Wizard of Oz" at this wonderful museum in Topeka, Kansas. This new facility was established in 2003 and maintains its position as one of the top attractions in the state with memorabilia from the classic movie and other productions of the tale of the little girl from Kansas. Learn the story behind writing the original books, movie adaptations, TV shows, and stage plays at this fun museum, and be sure to stop by Toto's Tacoz [9] for a fun family dinner!

Noah's Ark Waterpark

1410 Wisconsin Dells Parkway Wisconsin Dells, WI

Kids and adults alike will love splashing through Noah's Ark Water Park, the largest water park in the U.S. Located in Wisconsin Dells, this outdoor park is open seasonally and offers 49 fantastic water slides, two wave pools and plenty of other attractions for the whole family including a dive-in movie, snack shops, restaurants and more. Be sure to try out the Time Warp, the largest bowl-style ride on the planet!

Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours

2339 US Highway 65 Walnut Shade, MO

The safe and secure Branson Zipline and Canopy Tours will provide the perfect option for all the family to see the beauty of the Ozarks from a different vantage point. Almost every age can take the journey from tree to tree to get a unique view across the forests. Family members can go a leisurely pace for a scenic adventure or a speed things up a bit to get the blood pumping. Branson is also home to some other awesome attractions such as te Rankin Brothers show, Adventures of Marco Polo, and the stunning Pointe Royale Golf Course, making it worth the visit! 

Kings Island Theme Park & Waterpark

6300 Kings Island Dr Mason, OH

Nothing says 'family fun' like a theme park and water park combo, and Kings Island is one of the most popular in Ohio. With more than 100 rides, a 33 acre water park, live entertainment, the world's largest animatronics dinosaur park, and the world's longest wooden roller coaster, everyone will have a great time in this award-winning park.

DuPage Children's Museum

301 N. Washington St. Naperville, IL

The DuPage Children's Museum is one of the best interactive museums in the U.S., with plenty to keep everyone entertained. Exhibits are aimed at toddlers to young children, and all three floors are bursting with educational and fun things to do. The whole family will enjoy building items with real tools, learning how air and water effect the body and the planet and lots of other hands-on activities.

Nickelodeon Universe

Mall of America 5000 Center Way Bloomington, MN

Housed entirely indoors, the Nickelodeon Universe theme park is always a great choice for the family, no matter what the weather outside is like. Unlike outdoor theme parks, rides are always open and beloved Nickelodeon characters make frequent appearances throughout the day. While kids will love the park itself, adults and older kids can also enjoy shopping or finding the best food vendors available in one of the best known shopping centers in the U.S., the Mall of America, which houses Nickelodeon Universe. The Amazing Mirror Maze [10] , located on the third floor of the Mall of America, is another family-friendly attraction that shouldn't't be missed!

Have you taken your family to any of these exciting attractions or destinations? What are your family's favorite vacation destinations? Tell us in the comments, and don't forget to share the article with your friends!

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The Family Vacation Guide

Revealed: The Best Midwest Family Vacation Spots

posted by James Brockbank on January 24, 2022 // last updated on March 14, 2022

Vacationing with the family is rewarding, but can also be stressful if you don’t plan ahead. Before picking a destination, doing your due diligence with a little vacation research goes a long way. 

If you’re planning a vacation in the Midwest with your family, there are a variety of locations to choose from. Here, you’ll see a collection of the best and most family-friendly places from North Dakota to Ohio and back.

From theme parks to kid-friendly eateries, here are the top places to visit. To find more inspiration on things to do in these spots, why not check out our guide to the best Midwest zoos .

Branson, Missouri

Columbus, ohio, indianapolis, indiana, bowling green, kentucky, dubuque, iowa, medora, north dakota, wichita, kansas, hayward, wisconsin, kansas city, missouri , des moines, iowa.

Branson is located in the Ozark Mountains and was named for postmaster Reuben Branson in the 1880s. With a rich American history, there’s plenty to see and do in this Missouri city, including visiting Dolly Parton’s Stampede for a dinner show you won’t soon forget. Other activities in Branson include:

• Silver Dollar City Amusement Park : Rides for all ages, plenty of snack food, and excitement around every corner. All themed toward the 1880s!
• Promised Land Zoo : A wildlife park complete with a walkthrough safari. Promised Land Zoo includes must-see animals like sloths, lemurs, owls, and more. 
• Ripley’s Believe it or Not : Creepy, kitschy and extremely fun.
• Downtown Branson Ferris Wheel : Take part in a city-wide tradition at the Branson Ferris Wheel. Ride the go-karts, bumper boats, or take in a game of golf. There’s something for everyone. 
• Titanic Museum : For something educational and eventful, the Branson Titanic Museum is history at its finest. Learn about the fateful 1912 wreckage, and grab a souvenir at the gift shop. 
• Wonder Works Branson : Zany and fun, Wonder Works is full of rides, activities, and learning experiences for all ages. 

After all the fun and games, check out the Farmhouse restaurant on Main Street, for their famous all-day breakfast. Need a place to stay? Try the Grand Country Resort for a bed, breakfast, and on-site theme park the kids will love. 

The state capital of Ohio is more than meets the eye. Overflowing with family fun, it’s impossible to run out of things to do in Ohio. From the huge interactive Scioto fountain at Bicentennial Park, to visiting Butters D. Cow at the Ohio State Fair , you can find fun for everyone in your group. Some activities of note include:

• Columbus Zoo and Aquarium : Come watch the penguins and manatee splash at the aquarium, or head into the jungle to see lions, elephants, and grizzly bears. 
• Ohio History Center : If you want some learning experiences on your trip, check out the Ohio History Center. See the Armstrong Air and Space Museum, Youngstown Historical Center of Industry and Labor, and visit Zoar Village. 
• Columbus Museum of Art : From author talks to famous artwork, the Columbus Museum of Art has lots to do and see. If you’re visiting around a holiday, the museum also puts on special themed events. 
• COSI (Center of Science and Industry) : COSI has a wide range of activities for young and old alike, including the planetarium, giant screen theater, big science park, and dinosaur exhibits. 

Looking for somewhere fun to stay and eat in Columbus? Check out German Village ! This collection of shops, restaurants, and attractions began in the mid-1800s with German settlers in Columbus. Visit Schmidt’s Restaurant and Sausage Haus and the German Village Guest House for a real taste of German Village. 

Sometimes referred to as Indy, Indianapolis is the capital of Indiana and home to the  Indianapolis 500. Apart from the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and Speedway Museum , there are plenty of things to do in town for families with children of all ages. Some of the top attractions in the city include:

• Children’s Museum of Indianapolis : Take a spin on the carousel, visit an 1890’s railroad replica, or watch a show at Lilly Theater. Whatever your interests, you’ll find some fun at this museum curated specifically for kids. 
• Indianapolis Zoo : Feed some flamingos, ride the Skyline cars, or take a train around the zoo. Indianapolis zoo is home to many animals, such as Alaskan brown bears, Amur tigers, and crocodiles. 
• Newfields : Newfields includes a selection of activities, such as the Indianapolis Museum of Art, Miller House and Garden, and Fairbanks Park. Take it all in with one pass when you visit Newfields. 
• The Garage Food Hall : From the Bottleworks Hotel to a lineup of Indy-inspired food vendors, there’s grub and activities for you and your little ones at The Garage Food Hall. 

For a taste of Indiana look no further than The Cake Bake Shop (perfect for your picky eaters as they serve sandwiches with the crusts already cut off!) or 3 Sisters Cafe , which features a kid’s menu complete with bear-shaped pancakes sporting banana smiles. 

Bowling Green is a southern city in Kentucky state known for caves, nature, and corvettes. If you have a family of explorers, who love nature and history, Bowling Green is the place to see. 

The city rests atop a massive natural cave system, built by sinkholes and waterways. Visit the Lost River Cave System with your family, and take the kids on a boat ride they’ll not soon forget through the watery underground caverns. Other attractions in Bowling Green include:

• Baker Arboretum and Downing Museum : 115 acres of foliage and nature grace the outside of Baker Arboretum, while inside your family will take in local art and a variety of museum exhibits.
• Shanty Hollow Lake : For an outdoor adventure, head to Shanty Hollow Lake for hiking, fishing, and biking. There are also a collection of beautiful waterfalls to be seen along the trails here. 
• National Corvette Museum : Got a few car enthusiasts in the family? The National Corvette Museum in Bowling Green is the perfect outing. “Home of America’s Sportscar”, boasts ongoing car exhibits, car shows, and a kids zone.
• Beech Bend : An amusement park, campground, and raceway, Beech Bend gives you a place to stay, eat, and play rolled into one. Perfect for all ages. 

Kentucky is a food lover’s paradise, so there are some must-see places to visit if you’ve got foodies in the family. While in Bowling Green check out Earl G’s Dumplin’s , famous for their chuckwagon sandwich.

Just at the edge of the Mississippi River sits the city of Dubuque in Iowa . The city is famous for its cultural center, complete with historical homes, churches, and other architectural wonders. One of the main attractions in Dubuque is Mathias Ham Historic Site . The mansion offers year-round tours and special events. Other local attractions are:

• National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium : A 14-acre campus complete with bearded dragons, barn owls, Cownose rays, Epaulette sharks, giant Pacific octopus, and more. 
• Fenelon Place Elevator Co. : Ride the world’s shortest and steepest railway at Fenelon. Take a one-way or round trip on the train. Children under 5 ride free!
• Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden : From hosta shades to peonies to roses, the Dubuque Arboretum and Botanical Garden is perfect for sightseeing, family photos, and memory-making. Take a tour, hike the grounds, and don’t forget to visit the children’s play area. 
• Mines of Spain : A recreation and interpretive nature center, Mines of Spain offers picnics, cross country skiing, watchable wildlife and more. 

For a unique and cultural overnight experience, visit Hotel Julien Dubuque . The hotel is known for Caroline’s Restaurant and the Riverboat Lounge. For family dinners, try Your Pie Pizza (the Hot Honey Pepperoni is particularly good), or Sunshine Family Restaurant . 

Medora is a small city in Billing’s County, North Dakota. While the population remains low (around 129), there’s plenty to do and see. The small-town feel of this micro-city creates a wonderful ambiance for families hoping to take on the midwest and explore all the rich history and culture it has to offer. Looking for some things to do in Medora? How about:

• North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame : Established in 1995, the Cowboy Hall of Fame puts Medora on the map for country lovers far and wide. From roundup events to historical tours, including education on ranching and Native American culture, the hall has plenty to do and see. 
• Medora Riding Stables : Let the kids experience the wild west first hand at the Medora Riding Stables. The stables are a great spot to bring the entire family for a ride through the hills. No matter your riding level, you’ll be in good hands.
• Medora Musical : Come see the, “Greatest show in the west!” Medora Musical combines boot-scootin’ tunes with classic cowboy midwest music and a live show. Take in the singing and dancing, watch the fireworks, and stay to meet the cast.
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park : For a mix of history and nature, visit Theodore Roosevelt National Park, named for the 26th president of the United States of America. There are plenty of activities for youth, and your family can walk to the elkhorn ranch. 

For a place to stay with style and history, consider the Rough Riders Hotel . A historic inn with 76 guest rooms, your kids will be excited to learn that Teddy Roosevelt once stayed at the Rough Riders Hotel. The hotel restaurant, Theodore’s Dining Room was named for the president.

Settled in south-central Kansas is the city of Wichita. While the city is known as, “The air capital of the world”, and the location of the first-ever Pizza Hut , it’s also famous for plenty of family-friendly events. If you visit Wichita with your loved ones, be sure to visit:

• Sedgwick County Zoo : A visit to the Sedgwick County Zoo is a totally interactive experience your family will love. Feed the animals, from the playful river otters to the friendly horses. There are also tram and boat rides in the summer season. 
• Starlite Drive-In : Get hit with a blast from the past at the Starlite Drive-In. Take the entire family for a movie and snacks, all in the safety of your vehicle. Want a little something to prove you made a stop at the drive-in? Visit the gift store for a unique Starlite bumper sticker. 
• Exploration Place : Science museums are growing in popularity and it’s not difficult to see why. There are many fun activities to interact with, including the lava challenge and the survival center. Check the official site before you visit to see what exciting new special events are underway. 
• The Arcade : The name says it all. Pinball, Donkey Kong, Mortal Kombat, and more childhood favorites are all under one roof. Take the kids, or revisit your inner kid, with a trip to The Arcade on North Mead Street. 

Need some grub on the go? The Old Spaghetti Factory is a family favorite, especially if you and your little ones are into pasta. Not into spaghetti? Take a trip down to East Kellogg Street and check out Doo-Dah Diner. They have the greatest compilation of traditional diner eats in a kid-friendly setting. For some rest and relaxation after dinner, check out Drury Plaza Hotel Broadview on West Douglas Avenue. 

Just over from the Namekagon River is Hayward, a mid-sized city in Sawyer County, Wisconsin . This is a great place to bring the family if you want to get back to nature, do some hiking, catch dinner on the open water, and swim in the summer. Hayward is known as a fishing town, and there’s plenty to do here if you’re keen on a rod and reel. Some of the attractions in town, include:

• Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame & Museum : People come from far and wide to read the record book, apply for freshwater fishing world records, and of course, see the giant fish. Get a photo of your family in the landmark, “Shrine to Anglers” display, which allows up to 20 people to stand in the mouth of a concrete, steel, and fiberglass replica of a jumping fish. 
• Runamuk Rides : Whether fishing or snowmobiling, Runamuk Rides provides family activities by renting out ATVs, boats and more. Depending on the ages of your family members, you may be limited to the rentals you can choose, but there’s something for everyone at Runamuk. 
• Wilderness Walk Zoo : See a moose, red stag, and bison, up close and in person. Wilderness Walk Zoo brings together natural Wisconsin in an up-close and personal way you can’t get on your own in the woods. The kids will love taking photos of the animals, and there are plenty of treats to be had on the way. 
• Scheer’s Lumberjack Show : Ever wanted to see lumberjacks in action? Scheer’s is the place to do it. Logrolling, power sawing, pole climbing, and children’s activities – there are plenty of ways to stay entertained and build new memories. 

Want a memorable place to stop and grab a snack? Take the family to Tremblay’s Sweet Shop on Main Street. The shop is famous for its fudge, but offers a wide assortment of tantalizing treats for those with a sugar tooth. If you’re interested in something on the savory side, check out Angler’s Haven Resort on Country Road. 

Not to be confused with the state of Kansas, Kansas city is on the western side of Missouri, just at the border of Kansas. The city is famous for jazz music, great barbeque and some truly unique fountains. Kansas City has a lot of fun activities for adults and children of all ages, including:

• LegoLand : What kid doesn’t love Lego? But, did you know LegoLand has lots for adults to do and see as well? Visit the “Ultimate indoor Lego playground” and experience amusement park rides, 4D cinema, and plenty of creative workshops. Build, buy, and play with Lego to your heart’s content. 
• Kaleidoscope : The Hallmark Kaleidoscope center is a free place for kids to get creative. Partnered with Crayola, Kaleidoscope has lots of artistic endeavors for your children to undertake. Get crafty together for some family fun on Grand Street. 
• American Jazz Museum : For something a little more grown-up, but still family-friendly, check out the American Jazz Museum. If you’re a music enthusiast, this is something you don’t want to miss. View the current exhibits and learn about the local jazz academy. 
• Union Station : More of a collection of activities than a single destination, Union Station is home to the City Stage Live Theater, Science City, Planetarium, and Regnier Movie Theater. 

If you get hungry while visiting Kansas City, rest assured there is something for every eater. Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que is a local hotspot, with some of the best pulled pork, brisket, and beef ribs you’ll ever taste. Not looking for so much meat? Kansas City also has some great vegetarian eateries, such as Cafe Gratitude . The kids menu is outstanding, with comfort food you can feel good about feeding your little ones. 

The capital of Iowa, and a cultural hub of the state, Des Moines has an abundance of family fun for residents and tourists alike. The city is known for the assortment of sculpture parks and gardens, offering plenty to see while you stroll through the city. Families looking for activities to embark on together should check out attractions such as:

• Adventureland Resort : With thrill rides, family rides, kiddie rides, and adventure bay to explore, you’re not likely to run out of things to do. Adventureland also offers accommodations through Adventureland Inn and the Adventureland Campground. Whether you want to rough it over a campfire or rest easy in a cushy splash park bungalow, they will help you get settled near the action. 
• Living History Farms : Bring your family to a place where they can see and experience history firsthand. The Living History Farms offers a glimpse at 30 years of farming history, including historic cooking classes, interacting with the animals, and watching demonstrations of old-timey activities. 
• Blank Park Zoo : For more fun with animals, Blank Park Zoo is home to giraffes, penguins, sea lions, pandas, flamingos, and more. Visit the animals, take the train around the park, ride the carousel, and check out the Kiddie Kingdom Feed Cup to feed some of the animals. 
• Des Moines Art Center : Complete your Des Moines cultural experience with a visit to the Des Moines Art Center. Tour the gallery and exhibits, or take a class. The art center offers a great indoor option on rainy days, and if you happen to be in Des Moines in the summer, they also provide summer camps. 

For a bite to eat with some fun on the side try Uncle Buck’s Fish Bowl & Grill . The eatery is known for its family dining, especially the “Tasty Burger”. When you’re done with dinner, knock down some pins at the adjoining bowling alley. If you’ve got a strong stomach and a taste for adventure, you and your family might also enjoy a visit to Zombie Burger & Drink Lab . 

For accommodations, Des Moines tourists turn to the Butler House on Grand for a B&B experience like no other. The old English Tudor style home is more than 100-years old, and provides suites and butler concierge service. 

Wrapping Up Your Midwest Travels

Hopefully, this guide has provided some tips on which states and cities to visit, and where to look for family fun while you’re on the road. There are plenty of hot spots across the Midwest; too many to name. Some fun locations that didn’t make the list but you should check out on your travels include:

• Door County, Wisconsin
• Traverse City, Michigan
• Cleveland, Ohio
• Springfield, Illinois
• Brainerd Lakes, Minnesota
• Rapid City, South Dakota
• Omaha, Nebraska

As you plan your Midwest travels, consider making a list of the types of activities you’d like to enjoy. Door County, Wisconsin, for example, is a great location for sun tanning and swimming holidays, while Omaha, Nebraska is a hub of cultural and historical activities including a top-notch museum and art gallery. 

It’s also a good idea to check on seasonal activities at the venues you’re considering. There’s nothing worse than making a trek out to see an attraction and finding it’s closed for the season. Wherever your trip takes you, happy travels!

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

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Midwest Road Trip Ideas: Fun Vacation Spots to Consider

Jennifer Kaufman

It’s time to start planning your 2023 Great American road trip . If you’re undecided about your destination, we’re suggesting you consider the natural beauty, magnificent cities and quirky pit stops you’ll find on a Midwest road trip.

Use one of the Midwest’s major cities – Chicago, St. Louis or Detroit – as your jumping off spot. Depending on the direction you choose you can explore the natural wonders of South Dakota or head north to a car-free Michigan island or get your Christmas thrills in mid-summer at a holiday-themed amusement park. Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in the Midwest.

Our State-by-State Road Trip Guide to the Best Midwest Vacation Spots

A Midwest road trip offers the best choices for family vacations, from friendly big cities perfect for a Midwest weekend getaway to unique natural wonders you can only find in the middle of America.

This state-by-state guide includes our favorite Midwest vacation spots, from Ohio to South Dakota, with lots of great family friendly attractions in between.

Read More: Calling all nature lovers! The 9 best national parks in the Midwest

Midwest Road Trip: Illinois Destinations

Chicago, illinois.

Any Midwest road trip would be incomplete without a trip to the Windy City , with its countless ways to spend your time. Here four are of our favorite must-dos during a Midwest weekend getaway to Chicago :

Visit the Bean . The shining star of Chicago’s Millennium Park, snapping a selfie in the reflective surface of the giant sculpture is a Chicago must-do. (Even the locals do it!) If you can’t show that photo when you get home, no one will believe you visited Chicago!

Go shopping . The big draw is the world famous “Magnificent Mile,” Michigan Avenue’s shopping strip. Don’t forget to stop at the American Girl Store. Even if you don’t have a daughter, the huge, luxurious store is an experience.

Enjoy the lake . Spend some time strolling along Oak Street Beach, with the magnificent Lake Michigan on one side and some of Chicago’s priciest real estate on the other. Or take a boat ride that leaves from the family-friendly Navy Pier.  For a deep understanding of Chicago’s place as an architectural mecca, take the Chicago Architecture Foundation boat tour on the Chicago River. Kids love seeing the city from the river — and seeing the underside of the bridges over the river.

Visit Lincoln Park Zoo . One of the last free zoos in the USA , this lakefront gem has a children’s zoo, a lagoon where you can rent peddle boats and beautiful landscaped gardens. Don’t miss a stop at the Lincoln Park Conservatory on your way out of the zoo.

Eat . In Chicago, that means deep dish pizza or a Chicago hot dog. Just remember: No one over age 18 orders catsup on a hot dog in Chicago. If you do, everyone will know you’re an out-of-towner.

Oak Park, Illinois

Best known as the home of Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is the first suburb west of Chicago and easy to get to via the Green Line on Chicago’s famous elevated train system. (It seems like just about every movie filmed in Chicago has at least one scene that takes place beneath the L tracks!)

Stop at the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, then take the walking tour of the Wright-designed homes in the surrounding neighborhood.

Read More: How to Road Trip with a Baby – A Survival Guide for Parents

Great River Road Scenic Byway

More than 2,000 miles long, the Great River Road Scenic Byway runs along the Mississippi River through 10 states and hundreds of historic river towns.

That includes 33 miles from Hartford to Grafton, Illinois, where the road is known as the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway. This drive is particularly beautiful in the fall when the trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow.

Read More:  How to Plan an Epic Family Road Trip in 5 Easy Steps 

Starved Rock State Park

This lovely state park is about 90 minutes west of Chicago. It’s a mecca for hikers and nature lovers. Trails wind along the gorgeous steep sandstone cliffs that line the Illinois River.

During the spring and early summer, it’s easy to find waterfalls along the hiking trails. You can camp there or spring for a stay at the Starved Rock Lodge.

Midwest Road Trip: Indiana Destinations

Indiana dunes national park.

The stunning sand dunes that line the southern tip of Lake Michigan were designated the USA’s 61st national park in February 2019. Indiana Dunes  has 15 miles of stunning beaches and huge dunes to climb.

The sand dunes and beautiful blue water look like something you’d see on the east coast – not something you’d find in a Midwest vacation spot. When you’re done playing on the beach, there are lots of craft breweries and local restaurants nearby.

Indianapolis, Indiana

This Midwest town is one of our favorites. It’s small enough to feel manageable, even to people who aren’t used to urban hustle and bustle, but big enough to offer plenty of fun.

Start at Indianapolis ’ White River State Park. Located right in the center of the city, it’s home to the Indianapolis Zoo, a minor league baseball stadium, the Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art, the Indiana State Museum (check tickets) and the NCAA Headquarters and Hall of Champions, with lots of fun hands-on play for tweens and teens. Indy locals consider the river one of the city’s hidden gems .

Indianapolis is also home our hands-down, absolute favorite kids’ museum, the Indianapolis Children’s Museum. Already one of the world’s biggest and best, the museum has just expanded its dinosaur attraction, making it a must-stop destination for dino-loving families. Get a tickets pass to eight main attractions of Indianapolis. And then visit Indy Island, one of Indiana’s best indoor waterparks .

The city neighborhoods of this Midwest vacation spot are connected via biking trails that wind through its cultural districts.

SheBuysTravel Tip:  If you have a membership to a local museum or zoo, check to see whether it is a member of a reciprocity group before you head off on your family vacation. It could mean free entrance to museums and zoos during your trip as well! There are groups for  science museums ,  zoos and  cultural institutions .

Santa Claus, Indiana / Holiday World

It’s Christmastime year-round in Santa Claus, Indiana. Write a letter to Santa at the post office, or spend the day at the super family friendly theme park, Holiday World.

Who doesn’t love an entire theme park themed to Christmas?

Essential Item to Pack for a Road Trip? A Portable Espresso Maker for Coffee on the Go!

Midwest Road Trip: Iowa Destinations

SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump hit several cool Iowa spots on her journey across the Midwest and says she wishes she had planned more time there. From unique road side stops to outdoor fun that allows kids to be kids, Iowa had it all. Here’s our list of the best things to do in Iowa with kids.

Let the kids run off some road trip energy at Des Moines Pappajohn Sculpture Park. This park is located off of Grand Avenue and showcases more than 25 sculptures spread over more than 4 acres. Metered parking is readily available nearby.

Not only is this a great photo spot that teens will love for the Insta, but it’s got a hill in it that Nasreen’s kids rolled down over and over. Who said fun can’t be free!?

SheBuysTravel Tip: For the best parental experience,  grab a coffee down the street at Zanzibar’s Coffee Adventure. Then enjoy it at the sculpture park while your kids amuse themselves.

Located where Wisconsin, Illinois and Iowa meet, Dubuque is perfectly located for a Midwest road trip. It lets you easily hit more than one state!

While there is plenty to do in Dubuque, including an arboretum, aquarium and caves to explore, we highly recommend checking out the Fenelon Place Elevator (also called the Fourth Street Elevator). Technically a funicular, this elevator has been called the shortest, steepest scenic railway ride. You sit in a cable car for the ascent. Once you’re at the top, you’ll have a spectacular view of the Mississippi River and three states.

There is a small fee based on age which can you find here . Nasreen’s kids loved the story behind how it was built. It includes a wealthy man with a love of naps, which gave her and the kids a chuckle.

How often do you have the opportunity to feel like you’re visiting another country without leaving the Midwest? Elk Horn, Iowa, is home to the Museum of Danish America .

If you have older kids, let them roam the grounds and explore the museum. For kids under 12, the better stop is going to be the Danish Windmill . You’ll get some fun family photos and get to check out a working windmill. Originally built in Nørre Snede, Denmark in 1848, the windmill was brought to the United States in pieces and rebuilt by a team of volunteers in 1976.

The site also has a village replica, tiny chapel and gift shop full of fun items and things to eat. Head on to Kimballton (5 minutes away) next.

You may never have heard of tiny Kimballton. Iowa. but this town of fewer than 500 people is another great stop to explore Danish heritage in Iowa.

Kimballton is home to Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Mermaid & Sculpture Gardens. This small park based around a fountain features a replica of the Little Mermaid statue in Copenhagen, Denmark. There are 8 more bronze sculptures representing stories by Andersen. Nasreen’s kids loved seeing these and talking about the original stories they were based on. It’s a good, quick stop for the whole family.

SheBuysTravel Tip: There’s a small playground nearby, so plan time for the kids to play.

Quad Cities

The Quad Cities include Bettendorf and Davenport in Iowa and Moline and Rock Island in Illinois. Rent a bike and ride the path along the Mississippi River.

Tractor-loving kids will require a visit to the free John Deere Pavilion in Moline. The Putnam Science Museum in Davenport is also a must-do. The whole family will demand home-made ice cream from Lagomarcino’s. Choose to stop at the downtown location, open since 1908.

Winterset, Iowa

Winterset is the home of legendary actor John Wayne, has a super fun sculpture park, and fun, family-friendly railroad attractions. Central Iowa is also the inspiration for The Bridges of Madison County.

Midwest Road Trip: Kansas Destinations

Kansas city, kansas.

The College Basketball Experience in  Kansas City is a slam dunk for families.

But our favorite thing to do in KC is the National Museum of Toys and Miniatures where it’s virtually guaranteed you’ll hear someone say, “Oh, I used to have that toy!”

Read More: Best Hotels in Salina, Kansas: The Little Town that Could!

Midwest Road Trip: Michigan Destinations

Whether you’re visiting gorgeous beach towns  on  Lake Huron , spending the winter with  sled dogs  in  Traverse City , touring the state capitol in Lansing or looking for the Northern Lights in Petoskey, there are so many delightful towns to visit in both the lower and upper peninsulas of Michigan. The state also offers a few unique Midwest vacation spots for your Midwest road trip.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Looking to visit both Wisconsin and Michigan in one trip? Make the travel more fun by crossing Lake Michigan on the SS Badger car ferry! 

Detroit, Michigan

If you haven’t been to Detroit lately, you haven’t been to Detroit. It is a city on the rise. Plan to spend a day at the beautiful Belle Isle Park, home to one of the oldest aquariums in North America. It’s small and free and well worth a look to show the kids how aquariums have changed over the years.

The Detroit Historical Society, a small but exceedingly well done museum, showcases the history of the town the automakers built. The Detroit Art Institute across the street is a world-class art museum with impressive special events.

And don’t miss a chance to eat a burger and fries at HopCat!

Holland, Michigan

Holland, Michigan may be the closest thing you can get to the Netherlands without traveling to Europe.

A large, authentic Dutch windmill is perhaps the highlight of a stop in this Midwest vacation spot but there also are Dutch restaurants, architecture tours, and even wooden shoe carving shows. If you visit in May, you’ll be treated to the Tulip Time Festival, too!

Mackinac Island, Michigan

This no-cars-allowed island between Michigan’s upper and lower peninsulas is probably the most famous Midwest vacation spot on our list.

Mackinac Island is home to the United States’ second-ever National Park. Mackinac Island National Park is 70 acres of forests, incredible rock formations, wildlife and beautiful water features, as well as historical and cultural landmarks. And it’s a wonderful place to explore on bicycles because you don’t have to dodge cars!

Before you go, practice saying the name. It’s pronounced Mack-i-naw even though it’s spelled Mackinac. And it’s definitely worth a visit, even if you can only spend one day on Mackinac Island.

Saugatuck/Douglas, Michigan

Long the playground of wealthy Chicagoans looking to beat the city heat each summer, there is a wealth of fun outdoors things to do in Saugatuck and neighboring Douglas. Topping that list is a visit to Oval Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Michigan.

It’s no wonder this small town was named the “Best Beach Town in the Midwest” for 2021 by  Midwest Living magazine .

Traverse City, Michigan

This foodie town sits on the banks of Grand Traverse Bay and is the gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes (check out available tours) , one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere in the world. Really.

Feed your hungry teens anything cherry — from cherry jam to cherry burgers.

Midwest Road Trip: Minnesota Destinations

Duluth, Minnesota

Duluth , like many of the Great Lakes towns on this Midwest family vacations list, offers lots of outdoor activities for families. It is also home to Great Lakes Aquarium, the only freshwater aquarium in the US.

And, yes, it’s even fun to visit Duluth in winter.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

Home to the Mall of America ( which may be reason enough to visit ), Minneapolis and its sister city, St. Paul, have so much to offer visitors. Explore the largest mall in the US, or enjoy a number of theater performances.

Hike to Minnehaha Falls or explore miles of nature trails along the Mississippi River. It’s also one of the most affordable family vacations in the Midwest, with lots of free things to do with kids.

Midwest Road Trip: Missouri Destinations

Branson, Missouri

Branson, Missouri , is a fun and affordable vacation destination with beautiful lakes and mountains as well as fun shows and theme parks.

Silver Dollar City is a family-friendly park themed to an old mining town. Choose from more than 40 rides and live entertainment.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri

“The Strip” at  Lake of the Ozarks offers your typical tourist fare: gift shops, arts and crafts, fudge and candy factories and the like. But it’s the beautiful lake (with more than 50 marinas), a collection of golf courses, horseback trails, boat tours through caverns and tours of mansions (both current and historic) that makes this a worthy Midwest vacation spot that will keep you busy for as long as you want to stay.

St. Louis, Missouri

St. Louis  is one of our favorite Midwest getaway spots. Less than 6 hours from Cincinnati, Chicago, Indianapolis, Kansas City, Des Moines, Milwaukee, Louisville, Nashville, Tulsa and Memphis, it may be the most centrally located destination on this list.

You’ll want to visit the Gateway Arch, of course, but plan to spend some time at Forest Park. It’s larger than New York’s Central Park and home to a free zoo and a number of free museums. There’s also the Anheuser-Busch Brewery and Grant’s Farm and the eclectic, one-of-a-kind City Museum.

There’s a really fun and trendy waterfront area (Laclede’s Landing), plus an aquarium and lots of stuff for sports lovers, including taking in a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium.

St. Charles, Missouri

Just a half hour’s drive from St. Louis is charming and historic St. Charles.

Celebrate car culture with a stop at Fast Lane Classic Cars to ogle the 200 classic and muscle cars on display. Or forget about your car for a while and hop on board the St. Charles Trolley to ride the 30 minute loop around town. Download the app to track where the trolley is so you’ll know how long you’ll need to wait for a ride. The best part? It’s free!

Midwest Road Trip: Nebraska Destinations

Omaha, nebraska.

Omaha as a must-do for foodies. It is one of the nicest, cleanest and most hospitable family vacation spots in the Midwest – especially in the spring when the weather is perfect.

Don’t miss the opportunity in Omaha for your kids to stand in two states at once! Check Omaha experiences here . Even though it was pouring rain, SheBuysTravel contributor Nasreen Stump said her kiddos still thought it was one of the coolest things they did on their Midwest road trip.

There is plenty of parking on the Omaha side of the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge. You can walk to the middle of the bridge and straddle the state line between Nebraska and Iowa. Activities for kids exist on both sides of the bridge.

Midwest Road Trip: Ohio Destinations

Cincinnati, Ohio

Like the other large cities on this list, Cincinnati offers far too many attractions to really cover here. World-class museums, one of the best zoos in the country, several professional sports teams and a vast history are only a handful of the reasons to visit the Queen City.

Check out the best nightlife options in Cincinnati and these fun  free things to do in Cincinnati.

Cleveland, Ohio

The most famous attraction in  Cleveland, Ohio  is probably the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum. Even my kids, who didn’t know half of the artists, found plenty of interesting things to see and do.

Don’t miss a stop at the fun hands-on Great Lakes Science Center next door. Save a few bucks by buying the combo ticket admission to both the hall of fame and science center.

While you’re in Cleveland, you should also check out the beautifully revitalized Little Italy neighborhood or catch a Cavaliers game.

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Travel less than an hour from Columbus, Ohio’s capital city, and you’ll find yourself at the beginning of Appalachia.

Hocking Hills State Park has some of the area’s best hiking for families. We’ve taken young kids there on paved trails and spent time on more difficult hikes with older kids and adults. For adventure seekers, there’s zip lining.

This Midwest vacation spot is also home to caves, waterfalls and cultural and historic attractions. Small lakes offer boating (pontoon and human-powered craft such as kayaks or canoes only) and water sports.

Sandusky/Lake Erie Shore, Ohio

Sandusky, Ohio , is home to Cedar Point, which bills itself at the Roller Coaster Capital of the World. We agree. It’s where we took our kids to teach them to love roller coasters! Start with the smaller, tamer coasters and work your way up the Top Thrill Dragster — a steel coaster that reaches speeds of 120 mph as it shoots you straight up, then crawls over the top to wind straight back down, all in 17 seconds.

There are also four indoor waterpark resorts and beautiful beaches along Lake Erie. From Sandusky, take a ferry to Kelleys Island or South Bass Island’s Put-in-Bay. On these Lake Erie islands, take a cave tour, go fishing or climb the Marblehead Lighthouse in Port Clinton for spectacular views.

Warren County, Ohio

You can also take a scenic train ride to Lebanon , the county seat of Warren County – “Ohio’s Largest Playground.” Here you’ll find a charming downtown area with some of the country’s best antiques shopping.

You can even dine – or stay overnight – at the Historic Golden Lamb Inn & Restaurant . Opened in 1803, the Golden Lamb has hosted 12 US presidents and dozens of other US and world dignitaries.

Midwest Road Trip: South Dakota Destinations

Driving through South Dakota is THE iconic Midwest road trip. Start with a stop in Wall, South Dakota, to gawk at the incredibly touristy Wall Drug, wind through the breathtaking Badlands National Park , see Mount Rushmore and the Black Hills, pay your respects to Crazy Horse , then watch the buffalo roam at Custer State Park .

Consider staying in Rapid City. It’s centrally located to all of the South Dakota attractions. If you’re driving through North Dakota, you’ll find a bunch of free things to do in Grand Forks.

The Corn Palace

This kitschy stop is in Mitchell and it’s a must-do if you’re traveling I-90 across Iowa. It’s been operating since 1892 and is exactly what it sounds like: a reason to get people to pull off the highway and visit Mitchell. Every year, artists decorate the outside of the building with 325,000 ears of corn.

A visit is free, but bring your wallet. The kids will want to buy some of the corn-y souvenirs and treats.

Badlands National Park

Take the Badlands Loop Road (Highway 240) and stop often to ogle the Instagrammable rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires of  Badlands National Park . Watch for bison, bighorn sheep, prairie dogs and other protected wildlife.

Mount Rushmore

Look up President Washington’s nose (really!) as you hike around Mount Rushmore . That’s the national park where the busts of four presidents — George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln — are carved into the side of the  Black Hills Mountains . This Midwest vacation spot draws more than 3 million visitors every year.

Custer State Park

You can hike, fish and be wowed by Needles Highway here. But the biggest reason to visit Custer State Park is the chance to stop the car and watch the herd of 1,300 grazing buffalo on the Wildlife Loop.

Crazy Horse Monument

Unlike the other South Dakota attractions, Crazy Horse is a private endeavor run by a nonprofit. The project was started by Korczak Ziolkowski in 1948. It’s still far from finished.

Read More: Fun things to do in Chattanooga Tennessee with kids .

Midwest Road Trip: Wisconsin Destinations

Madison, Wisconsin

Madison is the capital of Wisconsin and it’s a rockin’ college town. Take the free tour of the beautiful capitol building, then walk across the street to browse through the (also free) Wisconsin Veterans Museum.

On Saturdays from April to November, the capital is circled with a huge farmers’ market selling everything from veggies to the must-try Wisconsin cheese curds. (You know they’re fresh if they squeak when you bite into them.)

Here’s our list of the best things to do in Madison , including eating some of Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds. Never skip the cheese curds!

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin combines a beautiful beach on Lake Michigan with the hustle and bustle of an urban center. Visit the world-class Milwaukee Art Museum and take the little ones to the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and school-age kids to Discovery World.

Motorcycle fans can visit Harley-Davidson Museum, and Milwaukee visitors can take part in several festivals throughout the year – including Summerfest, one of the world’s largest music festivals.

Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

About an hour north of Milwaukee,  Elkhart Lake is a lovely, serene family vacation spot in the Midwest. Several hotels nestle along the shores of the lake, where the calm water tends to be much warmer than Lake Michigan. We love the beautiful Osthoff Resort which has a number of wonderful restaurants. Race fans will want to plan a visit to Race America to watch a race or take a track driving course.

Green Bay , Wisconsin

Green Bay is best known as the home of the powerhouse Green Bay Packers American football team, which is celebrated at the new Titletown complex.

But Green Bay also is the gateway to Door County. Known as the Cape Cod of the Midwest, Door County is famous for its small towns along the bay and its fish boils.

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells calls itself the “ water park capital of the world .” While we love the giant indoor Kalahari Waterpark any time and the giant outdoor Noah’s Ark waterpark in the summertime, there’s much more to do there than just water slides.

Much like a visit to Branson, Missouri, or Gatlinburg, Tennessee, you’ll find a plethora of go-kart tracks, live dinner shows and boat tours. Don’t miss a ride on the famous Duck Boats! Away from the hustle and bustle of those tourist destinations though, you’ll also find plenty of water sports and hiking in the Dells’ three nearby state parks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the best time of year to take a Midwest road trip?

A: The best time to take a Midwest road trip is during the summer months (June-August) when the weather is warm and the attractions are open. However, if you’re interested in fall foliage, consider visiting in September or October.

Q: How long should I plan for a Midwest road trip?

A: It depends on how many stops you want to make and how much time you have. For a comprehensive Midwest road trip, plan for at least 2-3 weeks. However, if you’re short on time, you can still hit some of the highlights in a week or less.

Q: What are some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip?

A: Some must-see attractions on a Midwest road trip include Mount Rushmore, the Gateway Arch in St. Louis, the Mackinac Bridge in Michigan, and the Wisconsin Dells.

Q: Is it safe to travel to the Midwest?

A: Yes, the Midwest is generally a safe place to travel. However, as with any destination, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Q: What are some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip?

A: Some budget-friendly options for a Midwest road trip include camping instead of staying in hotels, packing your own food instead of eating out, and visiting free attractions like state parks and museums.

3 responses

Kansas City is in Missouri…

As someone who’s traveled all over the Midwest with kids, I have to say – this is an excellent list!

Thanks so much! There really is so much to do in the region – especially with families!

20 Family-Friendly Weekend Getaways In The Midwest

We get it, you need a weekend getaway. Brownie points if it’s a kid-friendly getaway. If you live in the Midwest or plan on visiting, there are so many cool and fun travel options for parents and kids. If a family weekend getaway is in order, let the internet (and Scary Mommy) be your friend . No need to travel to exotic lands — explore the many Midwest family vacation spots where the shores of the Great Lakes reach five different states. Beyond the Great Lakes, the Midwest is covered with rivers, inland lakes, and absolutely stunning greenery offering boundless outdoor adventures . Looking for an urban retreat? The Midwest is home to some of the nation’s most exciting cities (hello Chicago!) with deep culture, adrenaline-pumping attractions (ever heard of Kings Island), and some of the best Children’s Museums and Zoos in the country!

Even if it’s only for a few days, here are some of the best spots you and your family will love. Because sometimes, we all deserve a retreat away from real-life (yup, kids included. It’s not like they’re enjoying remote learning in 2021 more than you are). So tell your youngsters to drop their cool toys , and tell your spouse to leave work emails alone — it’s time for a mini family vacation! Here are the best weekend getaways for families in the midwest!

Editor’s Note: Prices listed are per night. Prices may vary.

Family Weekend Getaway Ideas in the Midwest

Among nature.

Situated on a ridge overlooking Medora in the North Dakota Badlands, this cozy house is surrounded by sprawling vistas with only deer and chipmunks as neighbors (yet just 2 miles from town). Tiny Medora offers big fun with the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame and the boot-scootin’ Medora Musical which is always live and outside at the Burning Hills Amphitheater. Swing by town to learn about President Roosevelt’s legacy of conservation before heading to the Theodore Roosevelt National Park (which is totally bike, horseback, car, and hiker friendly) to experience the simple beauty of the Badlands. Just a short hours drive away in Regents is the famed Enchanted Highway, a 32-mile stretch of two lane highway that features the world’s most expansive collection of larger-than- life scrap metal sculptures — a not to be missed experience.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of expansive pine trees, limestone cliffs, and flowing waterfalls in the Black Hills National Forest. Enjoy the seasonal beauty of Black Hills all year long at the Spearfish Canyon Lodge where visitors mountain bike, snowshoe, fly fish, and even tour the canyons on moonlit snowmobile rides. When ready for an adventure beyond the canyon, dig into the past with a guided tour of the Broken Boot Gold Mine, hit the slopes at Terry Peak, or see Mount Rushmore National Monument in person (just a scenic hour car ride away).

Take a family weekend trip to the  Cape Cod of the Midwest. Door County is a narrow peninsula (just 10 miles wide) sandwiched between Green Bay and Lake Michigan with tons to do and see. The expansive 300 miles of shoreline is home to 10 lighthouses, 5 state parks, and 30 beaches that have tons of all season outdoor activities. But exploring the peninsula’s picturesque coastal towns famous for community shrimp boils, art galleries, a not-be-missed maritime museum, and of course, cherry pie, is the real treat. The family- friendly Eagle Harbor Inn Bed & Breakfast overlooks the bay with private playgrounds and in-room kitchenettes averaging about $250 per night. Door County main streets continue to bustle all the winter with ice fishing and winter hiking. But the February Fish Creek Winter Festival is a real winter highlight with loads of hot chocolate to warm visitors on their candle-lit hikes through the ice carvings on display.

Winding through Minnesota and Wisconsin, the shores of the St. Croix River Valley have been welcoming Midwest weekend family visitors to its picturesque towns for ages. This 4- bedroom vacation rental (just over an hour drive from the twin cities) is the perfect hub for your family weekend visit to the St. Croix River Valley. Travel back in time with a vintage train ride through the valley (the fall color tours are especially popular) or dine down the river on a St. Croix River Cruise. Outdoor enthusiasts love the expansive Interstate State Park where swimming and hiking around gorges is just as popular as snowshoeing and cross country skiing. If you get the opportunity to visit the St. Croix River Valley in winter, make sure to check out the Annual Hot Air Balloon Festival and the October Autumn Fest.

Live the laidback lake life at this Brainerd Lakes Region waterfront log cabin. Generations of families have been drawn to the great fishing, family water sports, and lakes galore — 450 of them to be exact. Shorelines are dotted with rustic main streets, state parks, hiking trails, and kitschy Paul Bunyan fun (check out the last from the past Paul Bunyan Land). Nestled on the shores of popular Gull Lake stay in this rustic 3 bedroom waterfront cabin which has a private beach and playground — so Mama can relax, too. With u-pick local farms, color tours, and outdoor winter adventures (dog sledding anyone?) the Brainerd Lakes Region is the perfect weekend family getaway in the lovely Midwest.

In The City

Home to over 10,000 animals and famed Zoology Conservationist Jack Hanna, the 583 acre Columbus Zoo and Aquarium is reason enough to make Columbus our family getaway destination. Make sure to book an open air safari at the Wilds where giraffes roam free and bring your swimsuits to cool off at the Zoombezi Water Park. Stroll the sidewalks of the famed Easton Town Center where shopping, nightlife, and dining merge next to the Marriott Courtyard Columbus Easton (where a night’s stay starts around $150 for four people). The full service hotel features an indoor pool and most importantly is just steps away from the LegoLand Discovery Center where you can build the day away.

For non-stop urban family fun look no further than Chicago. Shop the Magnificent Mile, hit up the windy city art scene (the Art institute of Chicago is free for kids under 14) or cheer on the Bears at famed Soldier Field. Check into the Renaissance Chicago Downtown overlooking the Chicago River. This upscale contemporary hotel will delight the design lover and is fully equipped with an indoor heated pool for the kids. Grab an obligatory Millenium Park Bean selfie which is just blocks away before catching a bird’s eye view of the city from the top of the Navy Pier ferris wheel (you will be shocked by how big Lake Michigan actually is). No visit to Chicago is complete without a taste of Chicago deep dish pizza from Giordano’s, before or after you visit the Adler Planetarium and Field Museum of Natural History.

Spark curiosity in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Who needs to visit a museum when you can stay in a fully restored Frank Lloyd Wright house that is actually on the national register of historic places for about $220 a night. The historic light-filled house features 3 bedrooms and a sleeping porch to accommodate up to 9 guests. If you are still inclined to visit a museum, head 3 miles to Harley Davidson Museum where you can sit on and start different motorcycles or digitally design your own. The fully hands on waterfront Discovery World Center uniquely focuses on freshwater sciences and technology featuring an aquarium, interactive exhibits, and learning labs for all ages. This lake shore city has more than a weekend’s worth of family activities from catching a Brewer’s games or a Sprecher’s Brewery and Soda Pop Tour to visiting the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum and relaxing on the 15-acre Bradford Beach.

Close to the two-family vacation no brainers (a zoo and a children’s museum), The Omaha Marriott Downtown is the perfect vacation hub for the family (and prices start at just around $127 per night). Considered one of the nation’s top zoos, The Henry Dorly Zoo & Aquarium is known for the immersive habitats and interactive experiences (like stingray beach) that allow visitors to get up close to their animal residents. Mom, be sure to check out yoga in the aquarium for a unique Zen moment away from the kiddos. Let your littles learn and explore through the award- winning Omaha Children’s Museum or check out the Durham Museum in the renovated Omaha train station, don’t miss the 1940s soda fountain for authentic malts. Zip and climb away all that extra energy at TreeRush Adventures ropes course and zipline in nearby Fontenelle Forest if the kids still have energy to burn.

Show your race car lovers the real thing at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. When you are ready to slow down the pace, head over to the five floors of interactive exhibits at the Indianapolis Children’s Museum (which is the world’s largest). Dig for dinos in the Dinosphere or play among the legends in the Outdoor Sports Experience. Stay at the unique Fort Harrison State Park Inn for about $150 per night, which sits inside the Fort Harrison State Park and is just 9 miles away from the Children’s Museum. Hit the 18-hole golf course or tour the park on horseback with the family, all of which the Inn can help you arrange.

No cars allowed on the historic Mackinac Island, where visitors are met at the ferry by bike rentals galore and horse-drawn carriages. Rock the afternoon away overlooking the Mackinac Harbor on the whitewashed porch of the Island House Hotel. With 94 guest rooms starting around $400 in season, the Island House Hotel features 2 restaurants and an indoor pool. Just steps away from The Original Mackinac Island Butterfly House and the must-see Fort Mackinac, where the kids will love firing the real life cannon (just make sure to make a reservation). Rent bikes for the family (they even have tandem bikes and baby seats at some rentals) and work off all that fudge you inhaled at Ryba’s touring the limestone bluffs and scenic vistas of the Mackinac Island State Park, which encompasses much of the Island.

Kid-Friendly Resorts in the Midwest

Enjoy lake life relaxation with all the excitement of a resort at the Still Waters Resort on Table Rock Lake. The all lakefront condo resort (where prices start at around $100 per night) has accommodations from studios to 6 bedroom condos for any size family to comfortably stay. With 3 swimming pools, waterslides, a mini golf course, kayaks, paddle boards, volleyball courts and more all included with your stay, there isn’t much reason to leave the resort. But when you do, head over to the Silver Dollar Water and Amusement Park less than three miles away. Enjoy an evening of family entertainment at one of Branson’s live shows or walk through history at the Titanic Museum.

Nothing says getting nature like a treehouse cabin at the Natura Treescape Resort. This unique Wisconsin Dells property features a natural water park lagoon and sleeping quarters to accommodate any family’s needs from tiny houses and full treehouse cabins to standard guest rooms with bunks for the littles (prices start as low at $50 per night depending on time of year and accommodations). While visiting the Dells of the Wisconsin River, discover 14,000-year- old sandstone rock formations and private islands during a Dells Army Duck Ride. Get a little shopping and noshing done at the Bavarian village (don’t miss the giant Glockenspiel). And of course no visit to the Dells would be complete without a trip to the 51 water slides at Noah’s Ark Waterpark — the largest waterpark in the country

The premier midwest ski resort with its whopping 58 downhill slopes (28 lit so you can hit the slopes under the stars), multiple kid-friendly carpet lifts, and 25 km of cross country ski trails, Crystal Mountain is the perfect midwestern winter weekend getaway for any family. Kids can’t ski? Send them to ski school while you enjoy a Nirvana Stress Relief Massage in the 11,000 foot, state of the art Crystal Spa. Of course activities on the mountain are endless — did we mention Fat Tire Biking? But when there isn’t snow on the ground the Crystal Mountain is open to hikers and trail bikers, with outdoor yoga and even a 38-hole championship golf course. When you are ready to come down the mountain, Sleeping Bear Dunes and Traverse City (known for its annual Cherry Festival, wineries, and amazing food) are just a short drive away.

Cool Midwest Family Getways

Get your kicks on Route 66 and bring the fam for a trip down the great American highway. Grab vintage diner and gas station memorabilia at the Route 66 Visitor Center before checking out all the classic cars at the Route 66 Car Museum. Step back into the 1950s with all of today’s tech (hello WiFi and Cable TV) at the super comfortable and centrally located Route 66 Best Western Rail Haven, where rooms start at around $100 per night. Take a break from all the vintage kitsch and head underground with a tram ride through the Fantastic Caverns — one of the natural wonders of the US. Don’t forget to wander through the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden before diving into the educational Wonders Of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium (which was voted American’s best aquarium).

Next to an active train line in a converted 1914 freight station, Riley’s Railhouse Bed and Breakfast is a train lover’s dream come true. Sleep in an old rail car, watch trains roll past, and peruse the Riley private collection of railway antiques and memorabilia. For more rail fun, walk through the Taltree Arboretum to check out its award- winning Railway Garden. When ready for a train-break, feel the sand between your toes at the Indiana Dunes National Park after a swim in Lake Michigan. Catch a show with the family (both the local 4th Street Theater and the 49er Drive-in will keep the family entertained ’till bedtime) before heading to a tasting at the Running Vines Winery.

A family weekend in Frankenmuth Michigan (known as the little Bavaria of the Midwest) pretty much requires a stay at the German-themed Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth. The Inn itself is enough to entertain the kids with an arcade, indoor mini golf course, a kid’s play area and 4 indoor pools (one of which is only for kids). It’s Christmas all year long in Frankenmuth, especially at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland where your kids will love picking out an ornament in this bigger-than-Costco superstore. Swing a few clubs at the Fortress Golf Club or browse the old world cobblestone paths of the Riverplace Shops. Take a moment to honor all our military heroes and peruse the medals of honor collection and flight gear at Michigan’s Military & Space Heroes Museum. Top off the Michigan Bavarian experience filling hungry bellies at the famous Zehnder’s, which has been serving families its special fried chicken dinner for over 160 years.

You could spend your weekend getaway shopping at the world’s largest indoor mall with the fam. Or you can watch colors come to life at the Crayola Experience, laugh through a 4D movie at the Lego Discovery Center, and scream down the Spongebob Squarepants Rock Bottom Plunge at Nickelodeon Universe inside the Mall of America. Fill up at one of the 50 dining options before visiting the sea lions at the Sea Life Aquarium. And when your family is tired of mall life, travel the 1.2 miles from the Mall of America to the Great Wolf Lodge. The ultimate indoor waterpark resort will make a splash with kids of all ages. Back on dry land, kids can conquer the climbing wall, bowl a strike at the ten paws alley, or tackle the Howlers Peak Ropes Course. The all-suite resort offers lodge themed rooms and water park weekend getaways across the midwest in locations like Traverse City, Kansas City, and Sandusky.

Wichita’s bustling festival calendar attracts family weekend visitors throughout the year. With a spring, summer, or fall festival almost every weekend why not plan your visit to Wichita around the annual Blocktoberfest (beer, food, and games for the kids), the alfresco Autumn & Art Fair, or Wichita’s most famous event the June Riverfest. Follow the water to the riverfront Drury Plaza Hotel (starting around $150 per night) which is smack dab in the middle of downtown Wichita for easy access to all the festival locations and must see stops like the Cowtown Museum (bringing life in the 1870s to life), the Keeper of the Plains Monument, the Exploration Place Science Museum, and the Botanical Gardens.

Cincinnati is overflowing with culture. It’s actually hard to choose where a family should start between the Cincinnati Museum Center, the Newport Aquarium, and MLB Reds Hall of Fame. Not to mention the outdoor play havens of the Smale Riverfront Park and Botanical Gardens. But really, what’s tempting is to skip the culture in downtown Cincinnati and head to 20 minutes from downtown to Mason, Ohio to Kings Island Theme Park. Scream your way down the brand new Orion Rollercoaster or introduce your littles to junior roller coasters on the Great Pumpkin Coaster or the Woodstock Express. Cool down from the roller coaster thrills at the adjacent Soak City waterpark. When the day is done, gather the family around the outdoor fire pit at the newly constructed Marriott Courtyard Cincinnati Mason (perfectly situated between the downtown Cincinnati culture and the Mason thrills) to recount the all your family getaway adventures.

Looking to live more of your best life traveling and at home? Check out all our favorite products, services, and some of the best Mom advice you can find here .

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This article was originally published on Sep. 29, 2020

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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

Best Places to Visit in Ohio

Best Small Towns to Visit in the USA

Best Weekend Getaways

Best Weekend Getaways in the South

Best Weekend Getaways in New England

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Our 100 Best Family Vacation Destinations

W e've written about some amazing family vacation destinations over the years, so we at Mommy Poppins like to think we know a thing or two about the best places to visit with kids. In addition to our own travels and research, we've gotten lots of feedback on awesome cities, beautiful beaches, amazing hotels, and other great locales from readers like you.

To help you plan your next epic family vacation, we've put together this list of the 100 best family vacation destinations. Our list includes awesome spots throughout the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, and even Europe and Asia.

Can't get enough inspiration here? Our Family Travel Guide is continually being updated with more great destinations, from the best US family vacation spots that are off the beaten path to the best all-inclusive resorts in the US, Caribbean, and Mexico for kids .

In the summer months at Mohonk Mountain House, visitors can take a swim or relax at the gorgeous lake. Photo courtesy of Mohonk Mountain House

Best Family Vacation Destinations in New York and New Jersey

1. new york city.

You want to be a part of it—New York, New York. Our list of 100 things to do in NYC with kids before they grow up merely scratches the surface of family fun to be had in the Big Apple. Our Ultimate Itinerary By a Local Mom narrows down the best things to see and do if you've only got three days, including top attractions like the Statue of Liberty , Times Square , and Central Park .

2. The Adirondacks

The Adirondack Mountains near the Canadian border are one of the most idyllic family vacation spots in all seasons. Enjoy canoeing, fishing, swimming, hiking, art festivals, and lots more in the warmer months. Winter means snow sports like skiing, snowshoeing, and even dog sledding. The region is home to the much-loved Lake Placid .

We love taking family vacations to the Adirondacks so much that we've got a whole guide to family activities in the Adirondacks and Catskills, which includes our founder's roundup of 40 fun things to do in the Adirondacks with kids in every season.

3. Lake George

At the foot of the Adirondacks, Lake George boasts great outdoor activities such as fishing, camping, whitewater rafting, kayaking, canoeing, boat rides, beaches, and horseback riding. There are also wonderful shows, hotels, shopping outlets, and food. We detail it all in our roundup of 30 things to do in Lake George with kids .

4. The Catskills

Charming main streets and shops, great restaurants and breweries, family-friendly farms, rail trails for biking, and cozy boutique hotels with hiking trails are all part of a family vacation to the Catskills. See our list of over 35 things to do on a family vacation to the Catskills .

5. Mohonk Mountain House

This luxurious, all-inclusive resort in the Hudson Valley is so fantastic, it's a destination in and of itself. Our review of Mohonk Mountain House details all the reasons to stay there, from its incredible kids club and family activities to its great dining to its gorgeous lake. If you want to splurge, then trust us—you won't regret booking a family trip to Mohonk Mountain House . 

6. The Hamptons and North Fork, Long Island

There are so many things to do with kids on Long Island's East End, home to the Hamptons and North Fork. These include fantastic beaches (some with  beach playgrounds ), family-friendly wineries , historic lighthouses, awesome shopping and restaurants, kid-friendly museums , and more. It's all in our list of 55 things to do in the Hamptons with kids . 

Though it's often considered part of the Hamptons, this town on the extreme east end of Long Island deserves its own spot on our list. It boasts white-sand beaches, over 5,000 acres of parkland, fishing and camping adventures, and more. Our writer shares 25 things to do in Montauk with kids .

8. The Jersey Shore

With over 130 miles of shoreline and loads of great family beaches , the Jersey Shore is a popular summer travel destination. Whether you're looking for a bustling boardwalk full of rides and games, a beachside water park , thrilling animal encounters, or a lazy beach day, the Shore has it all. Consult our Jersey Shore Travel Guide for Families before visiting.

Walk the rocks at Fort Williams for views of Portland Head Light and the waves. Photo by Rose Gordon Sala

Best Family Vacation Destinations in New England

9.  portland, me.

This seaside city boasts a terrific  children’s museum , award-winning restaurants, fantastic parks, gorgeous ferry rides and hikes, and jaw-dropping coastal views.Read our roundup of  50 things to do in Portland with kids  to learn more.

10. Boston, MA

Beantown has it all: fabulous  museums , the Public Garden , the Old North Church and the Old South Meeting House , Fenway Park , and so much more. It's all in our list of 100 things to do in Boston with kids before they grow up . A Go City - Boston tourist pass will get you access to many of these top attractions for one ticket price.

11. Cape Cod, MA

This peninsula off the southeast corner of Massachusetts is known for its pristine beaches, charming main streets, legendary seafood, and fun museums like the Cape Cod Children's Museum . Many attractions are only open in the summer months, so Cape Cod is best for summer travel. See our roundup of 60 things to do on Cape Cod.

12. Martha's Vineyard, MA

You won't find water parks or go-karts, but there's still plenty of family fun to be had in Martha’s Vineyard. Local fairs, fresh seafood, beautiful beaches, ice cream shops, and more fill our list of 50 things to do on a Martha's Vineyard family vacation .

13. The Berkshires, MA

This hilly, charming region of western Massachusetts is a great choice for a family getaway. With breathtaking nature trails, gorgeous waterfalls and mountains, quirky museums, and welcoming farms, the Berkshires offer something for all families. Here's our list of 25 things to do in the Berkshires with kids .

14. Mystic, CT

With its historic seaport district , renowned aquarium , and easy beach access, Mystic is bursting with New England charm and a ton of family fun. Check out our list of the top things to do on a weekend getaway to Mystic . Be sure to grab a slice at the famous Mystic Pizza !

15. Newport, RI

Newport has a reputation as a summer playground for the elite, but in truth, it makes for a great family vacation. Yes, you can see fabulous Gilded Age mansions along the famous Cliff Walk and luxurious yachts in the harbor, but coastal Newport also has lots of budget-friendly things to do including gorgeous parks and beaches. We list 55 of them in our Newport city guide .

16. Block Island, RI

With its ancient cliffs and towering lighthouses, Block Island offers families plenty to do all summer long. Entertainment here is free of boardwalk attractions and amusement parks. Instead, spend your days on beach walks, bike rides, nature sanctuaries, and water activities. Our writer details 20 fun things to do on Block Island with kids .

Theme park and chocolate might be an even better match than peanut butter and chocolate. Photo courtesy of Hersheypark

Best Family Vacation Destinations in the Mid-Atlantic

17. the poconos, pa.

Whether you visit for skiing in the winter, swimming and boating in the summer, or hiking in the spring and fall, the Pocono Mountains are a gorgeous and fun-filled family vacation destination all year long. There are loads of great cabin rentals and awesome family resorts like Kalahari Resort and Great Wolf Lodge . It's all in our Poconos Family Vacation Guide .

18. Philadelphia, PA

If the promise of eating a mouthwatering cheesesteak doesn't compel you to visit Philly, then exploring the Franklin Institute , seeing the iconic  Rocky statue , and soaking up history at the Liberty Bell  and  Independence Hall  will. Check out our list of 100 things to do in Philadelphia with kids before they grow up .

19. Lancaster, PA

Lancaster is more than just Amish Country. Here, families can learn how ice cream is made at the Turkey Hill Experience , take a ride on the Strasburg Rail Road , and explore hands-on museums like the Lancaster Science Factory . Dutch Wonderland is also the perfect theme park for younger kids.

20. Hershey, PA

Catch thrills at  Hersheypark , explore Hershey's Chocolate World , see more than 200 animals at Zoo America , and enjoy other fun activities on a family vacation to Hershey. They're all in our roundup of 22 things to do on a Hershey family getaway .

21. The Delaware Beaches

Delaware's beach towns—Rehoboth Beach, Bethany Beach, Fenwick Island, Dewey Beach, and Lewes—all have gorgeous beaches, great mini golf courses, and loads of ice cream shops. Find more family fun in our roundup of 21 things to do at the Delaware shore . 

22. Washington, DC

Everyone needs to visit our nation's capital at least once in their life to see top attractions like the National Mall and Memorial Parks , free museums such as Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture , Arlington National Cemetery , and more. Check off items on our list of 100 things to do in DC with kids before they grow up .

23. Williamsburg, VA

Williamsburg is the perfect family vacation destination for history buffs, who can visit  Colonial Williamsburg , the Jamestown Settlement , Historic Jamestowne , and the  Yorktown Battlefield . When you need a history break, catch some thrills at Busch Gardens Williamsburg and nearby Water Country USA . You can even book a stay at Great Wolf Lodge .

Read our ultimate Williamsburg itinerary . 

24. Virginia Beach, VA

East Coast families flock to Virginia Beach for its seven wide, kid-friendly beaches and its three-mile boardwalk. Families can also visit the Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center and the Back Bay National Wildlife Refuge to see marine life and other animals, then try one of the many other great things to do on a Virginia Beach family vacation .

25. Baltimore, MD

At Baltimore's Inner Harbor , you'll find the Port Discovery Children's Museum , the National Aquarium , and the Maryland Science Center . Be sure to also visit the  USS Constellation warship and cheer on the Baltimore Orioles at historic Camden Yards . It's all in our guide to visiting Baltimore .

Relax on miles and miles of beautiful Outer Banks coastline. Photo courtesy of Visit Raleigh

Best Family Vacation Destinations in the Carolinas

26. outer banks, nc.

The Outer Banks (also referred to as the OBX) is a series of beautiful barrier islands, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the calm Pamlico Sound on the other. With lots of huge houses to rent, the OBX is the perfect spot for a beach vacation with extended family. You'll see why in our list of 25 things to do in the Outer Banks with kids .

27. Asheville, NC

There's a reason Asheville has landed on several of our best-of travel lists. Families can explore the majestic  Biltmore Estate , visit kid-friendly museums, take gorgeous hikes, and eat great food. Asheville is also known for its family-friendly breweries. Those are just a few items on our list of the 40 best things to do in Asheville with kids .

28. Charlotte, NC

With interesting museums, great parks, delicious restaurants, and more, there's no shortage of fun things to do in Charlotte with kids—in fact, there are 98 of them on our list ! You can even book a stay at a Great Wolf Lodge .

29. Myrtle Beach, SC

Sixty miles of gorgeous beaches, world-class golf courses, the fantastic Ripley's Aquarium , a boardwalk with thrilling rides, and more combine to make Myrtle Beach a place the whole family will love. Read all about it in our guide to visiting Myrtle Beach .  

30. Charleston, SC

Charleston is home to beautiful beaches, kid-friendly museums and historic sites, pretty parks and gardens, and loads of southern charm. The  South Carolina Aquarium is a can't-miss. Read all about our favorite things to do in Charleston with kids . 

31. Hilton Head, SC

Enjoy gorgeous beaches and golf courses, take a day cruise, explore kid-friendly museums like the Coastal Discovery Museum and the Sandbox Children's Museum , and soak up the southern vibe of on a Hilton Head family vacation. But first, see our list of the 20 best things to do in Hilton Head . 

32. Kiawah Island, SC

Kiawah Island is known for world-class golfing, 10 miles of pristine beaches, and unbeatable hospitality. The island centers around the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and its endless family activities, from swimming and water sports to biking and arts and crafts. Find out why our writer and her family repeatedly return to this southern oasis in her roundup of the 40 best things to do on Kiawah Island with kids .

The water at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo is so bright, it doesn't look real. Photo courtesy of the park

Best Family Vacation Destinations in Florida

33.  florida keys.

You'll feel like you've left the country when you visit this 125-mile chain of islands off the southern tip of Florida. From Key Largo down to Key West, each of the islands has its own character. Learn more about their breathtaking beaches, animal encounters, and other outdoor adventures in our handy  Florida Keys guide . 

34. Orlando

The main reason tourists visit Orlando is, of course, its theme parks— Disney World , Universal Orlando , Legoland , and SeaWorld . But we also share 100 other things to do in Orlando with kids , including great museums , gorgeous hiking trails , and fun dinner shows .

35. Amelia Island

This island just south of the Florida-Georgia border line is home to 13 miles of gorgeous beaches, destination-worthy state parks, and fun mini golf courses. Families can visit the  Amelia Island Nature Center , go horseback riding on the beach, take scenic bike rides, and try one of the other kid-friendly activities on our list of the best things to do in Amelia Island .

36. West Palm Beach

While beaches are West Palm's biggest draw, there's also plenty to do off the sand. Meet recently rescued sea turtles at  Loggerhead Marine Life Center , kayak or hike at  John D. MacArthur State Park , check out nearby Singer Island, and consult our  West Palm Beach city guide for more fun ideas.

The beaches in Naples feature powdery white sand, blue-green water, and gentle waves, making them one of the best things to do in Naples with kids . Families can also visit animals at the Naples Zoo , have hands-on fun at the Golisano Children's Museum , explore nature at  Rookery Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, and go hiking and kayaking. 

38. Sanibel Island

This Gulf Coast barrier island is a seashell lover's paradise. Walk along the shores of the unspoiled beaches while collecting tons of pretty shells. Another must-do is renting bikes to explore the island, making sure to stop at the J.N. "Ding" Darling National Wildlife Refuge . Find more in our guide to Sanibel Island .

Destin is part of the Florida Panhandle's "Emerald Coast", a 100-mile stretch of beach along the Gulf of Mexico. In addition to gorgeous beaches like Henderson Beach State Park , Destin is home to interactive museums, fun amusement parks, and plenty of other fun things to do with kids .

As long as you don't visit during spring break, Miami is a great vacation spot for families. Frolic on the gorgeous beaches, get hands-on at the  Miami Children's Museum , explore the  Miami Seaquarium , and check our ultimate list of things to do in Miami with kids for more. 

Come play at Annakeesta, the mountaintop adventure park in the heart of Gatlinburg. Photo courtesy of Annakeesta

More of the Best Family Vacation Destinations in the South

41. jekyll island, ga.

Unwind and enjoy nature at this barrier island, which has 10 miles of natural shoreline dotted with gorgeous and unique beaches. There's also a water park, outdoor activities like biking and horseback riding, a nature center, historic sites, and a  sea turtle education and rehabilitation facility . Find them all in our list of the top things to do on Jekyll Island with kids .

42. Sea Island, GA

Sea Island Resort on Georgia's stunning southeast coast is brimming with southern charm and world-class hospitality. It features five miles of private beach, several pools, and loads of family activities like biking, bowling, and a kids' camp. Read our writer's glowing review of Sea Island . 

43. Savannah, GA

With cobblestone streets, oak trees dripping with Spanish moss, majestic riverboats, and live jazz music, Savannah is the picture of southern charm. Check out our list of 35 things to do in Savannah with kids , including two children's museums, interesting historic sites, great parks, and more.

44. Nasvhille, TN

Music City—home to the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame —is a country-music fan's heaven. It's also lots of fun for kids, who can ride a vintage train at the Tennessee Central Railway Museum , explore pretend shops at the Discovery Center at Murfree Spring , and see exotic birds and animals at the Nashville Zoo . Our roundup of the 60 best things to do in Nashville will give you even more ideas.

45. Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge, TN

Families flock to Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge for their amusement parks, including the world-famous  Dollywood . But you can also visit interesting museums like the Gatlinburg Pinball Museum , see marine life at Ripley's Aquarium of the Smokies , and explore nature at Great Smoky Mountains National Park . Our list of 70 things to do in Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge will ensure your family never gets bored.

46. Memphis, TN

Go walking in Memphis to explore music history at places like Elvis Presley's Graceland mansion and Sun Studio . Kids will also love the massive Memphis Zoo , the Children's Museum of Memphis , and more of the awesome places in our Memphis city guide .

47. New Orleans, LA

The Big Easy may be one big party during Mardi Gras, but the rest of the year, it's an awesome city to visit with kids. Visit the massive Louisiana Children's Museum , see animals at the Audubon Zoo and the Audubon Louisiana Nature Center , explore the famous French Quarter, and more. It's all on our list of 45 fun things to do in New Orleans with kids .

48. Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, AL

These towns along Alabama's Gulf Coast boast white-sand beaches, back bays full of outdoor adventures like fishing and kayaking, water activities such as parasailing and bumper boats, and loads of mini golf courses. You can even stand in two states at once at the Florida-Alabama state line. Our writer shares more things to do in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores with kids .

49. Galveston, TX

Galveston Bay and the Gulf of Mexico are home to some of the  best family-friendly beaches in Texas , but the island of Galveston offers plenty of other family fun as well. From  Schlitterbahn Water Park to the Galveston Children's Museum , they're all on our list of 20 things to do in Galveston with kids .

50. San Antonio, TX

San Antonio has attractions and activities to suit visitors of all ages and interests. The jewel in its crown is the famed River Walk . Then there's the Alamo , where you can see the site of the infamous 1836 battle that became a symbol of heroic resistance on the route to Texas independence. Here's our list of the best things to do in San Antonio with kids .

The Franklin Park Conservatory in Columbus features 30 larger-than-life animal topiaries on display during Garden Safari. Photo courtesy of the conservatory

Best Family Vacation Destinations in the Midwest

51.  columbus, oh.

Whether you’re looking for awesome metro parks, thrilling water slides, hands-on science museums, or nationally recognized animal conservation, the second-largest city in the Midwest has activities for everyone in the family. Find them in our list of  33 things to do in Columbus .

52. Chicago, IL

Your family will have a blast in the Windy City with our list of the 25 top attractions in Chicago . Some highlights are the Field Museum (home to the world's most complete T-rex statue), the Shedd Aquarium , Millennium Park , and Navy Pier . Don't leave Chicago without trying some of its famous deep-dish pizza!

53. Minneapolis, MN

The Twin Cities of Minneapolis and St. Paul are home to the legendary Mall of America , great museums like the Minnesota Children's Museum , the Minnesota Zoo , and so much more that you'll read about in our Minneapolis City Guide . Just don't visit in winter if you don't like to be really, really cold!

54. St. Louis, MO

Meet your family in St. Louis to see the iconic Gateway Arch , visit the St. Louis Zoo and Science Center , catch a Cardinals game, and enjoy some of our other  favorite things to do in St. Louis with kids .

55. Milwaukee, WI

John Steinbeck once wrote that Wisconsin is full of surprises, and Milwaukee is no exception with its cosmopolitan feel and midwestern charm. Whether you want to explore the arts and sciences, soak up the sun on the shores of Lake Michigan, or sample some of the country's best frozen custard, you'll find something for everyone on our list of 30 things to do in Milwaukee with kids .

56. Interlochen and Traverse City, MI

With its gorgeous lakes, trees, and beaches, you can’t get much more picturesque than Northern Michigan. In Interlochen, nestled between Duck Lake and Green Lake, you’ll find the world-class Interlochen Center for the Arts . That's just one of the places to visit from our list of the 20 best things to do near Interlochen with kids .

Special events like Lunar New Year are a great time to visit Disney's California Adventure Park. Photo courtesy of Disney

Best Family Vacation Destinations in California

57.  anaheim.

Disneyland  and  Disney California Adventure  are what draw most tourists to Anaheim, and there are so many great  hotels near Disneyland  for families. Once you've had your fill of the theme parks, you can cheer on the  Los Angeles Angels , see kid-friendly live theater, and check off more items on our list of  25 things to do in Anaheim . 

58. Los Angeles

Though it's tempting to spend every day basking in the sunshine on LA's gorgeous beaches, don't miss our list of the top attractions in Los Angeles . From the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Sign to Rodeo Drive and the  La Brea Tar Pits , there are so many things to do with kids in the City of Angels. Don't forget to take a studio tour!

59. San Diego

This SoCal city and its surrounding areas boast gorgeous beaches like La Jolla Cove , where you can see sea lions, and Coronado Beach , where naval planes fly overhead. San Diego is also home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo and near great  amusement parks like Sesame Place , SeaWorld , and Legoland . Check out our list of 60 family-friendly things to do in San Diego .

60. Santa Cruz

This funky surfing mecca is home to miles of awesome beaches and a retro boardwalk full of rides and games. Check out the legendary Mystery Spot , see towering redwood trees at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park , visit sea life at the Seymour Marine Discovery Center , and do some of the other activities on our list of 30 fun things to do in Santa Cruz with kids .

61. San Francisco

You'll certainly leave your heart in San Francisco when you check off some of the items on our list of 100 things to do in San Francisco with kids , like visiting Alcatraz  (at night, if you're brave), riding a cable car, biking across the Golden Gate Bridge, and hiking in Muir Woods .

62. Santa Barbara

Ride horses along the sand, take a whale-watching or dolphin-spotting cruise, and relax on Santa Barbara's four miles of pretty beaches. Don't miss visiting the animals at the Santa Barbara Zoo , enjoying the shops and restaurants at Stearns Wharf , or doing one of our other favorite activities in Santa Barbara with kids .

There's so much to explore inside Cave of the Winds in Colorado Springs. Photo courtesy of the company

More of the Best Family Vacation Destinations Out West

63.  colorado springs, co.

Colorado Springs offers all of the beauty of the Rockies—majestic mountains, gorgeous hiking trails, and sparkling waterfalls—with a more laid-back vibe than Denver. There are historic western neighborhoods, amazing parks, the  US Olympic & Paralympic Training Center  and  Museum , and the fantastic  Cheyenne Mountain Zoo .

See what made our DC and travel editor fall in love with Colorado Springs in her list of  35 things to do with kids  there.

64. Boulder and the Rocky Mountains, CO

The Colorado Rocky Mountains are an ideal family vacation destination in any season, with tons of breathtaking hiking trails, awesome ski slopes, abundant wildlife, and more. And at the heart of it all is Boulder, which offers great museums, delicious restaurants, and family-friendly hotels. See why our writer and her family travel to the area so often in her list of the 35 best things to do in Boulder with kids .

65. Denver, CO

Known as the Mile High City, Denver is a charming all-seasons destination for a family vacation. You'll find big-city attractions like art museums, the Denver Zoo , and the Downtown Aquarium , but its outdoor scene is also unparalleled. Plus, Colorado enjoys more than 300 days of sunshine a year. Read our list of 40 things to do in Denver with kids , written by a mom who was born and raised in the area.

66. Las Vegas, NV

"Kid-friendly" is probably not the first word that comes to mind when you think of Las Vegas, but Sin City is becoming an increasingly popular family vacation destination. While there are plenty of casinos and grown-up activities on the strip, there are also many fun family activities, including parks, museums, and fantastic shows. Don't believe us? Read our list of 50 awesome things to do in Vegas with kids .

67. Seattle, WA

Seattle is a great family vacation destination for so many reasons—it's very walkable, the public transportation is straightforward, and there are fun things to do for people of all ages, including museums, parks, and the famous Pike Place Fish Market . Our writer who grew up in Sea Town shares 35 awesome things to do in Seattle with kids .

68. Portland, OR

Portland is a funky, weird, unique charmer of a town, packed with things to do that delight kids and the kid in all of us. Sure, it'll rain (unless you visit in the summer, when the sun shines until 10pm). But who cares about rain when you can duck into Powell's City of Books , explore the Oregon Museum of Science and Industry , or take a misty hike up Mount Tabor ?

Read a local mom's list of the 50 best things to do in Portland with kids .

69. Phoenix, AZ

One writer, who grew up in Arizona's capital, shares 45 fun things to do in Phoenix with kids , from the SEA LIFE Arizona Aquarium and the Children's Museum of Phoenix to the Phoenix Zoo and the Desert Botanical Garden .

70. Sedona, AZ

With its magical, red-rock landscape and plethora of outdoor activities, Sedona is a great family vacation destination. Whether you want to explore the art and history of this rich cultural area, catch thrills in a backcountry Jeep or ATV tour, or conquer one of the many hiking trails, there is something for everyone on our list of the best things to do in Sedona .

The pristine and calm beach water at Grand Isle Resort and Spa in the Bahamas is great for kids. Photo courtesy of the resort

Best Family Vacation Destinations in the Caribbean

71.  bahamas.

Our writers and editors have been to a ton of great resorts in the Bahamas, and we review them all in our  Bahamas Family Travel Guide . You can't go wrong at  Atlantis ,  Grand Lucayan , or  Grand Isle Resort & Spa . You'll also be amazed when you read our review of  CocoCay, Royal Caribbean's private Bahamas isle .

72. Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Families flock to Punta Cana for its abundant sunshine, gorgeous beaches, and multitude of activity-packed all-inclusive resorts. Read about some of our favorite Punta Cana all-inclusives in our reviews of Nickelodeon Punta Cana , Finest Punta Cana , and Club Med Punta Cana . Then hurry to book your family's stay at Nickelodeon , Finest , or Club Med today!

With its mix of beach beauty and easy-access family attractions—and a relatively protected location south of the main Atlantic hurricane corridor—Aruba is a great choice for a sunny family vacation. It also has a reputation for being a particularly friendly place. Read all about it in our list of the best things to do in Aruba with kids .

74. St. Thomas, Virgin Islands

If you want the exotic feel of a foreign country without leaving the US, St. Thomas is the place to go. The US territory has its own unique charm with breathtaking beaches, crystal-blue water, friendly locals, and gorgeous red roofs climbing the hills outside its capital city, Charlotte Amalie. Our list of the 25 best things to do in St. Thomas will make your family vacation unforgettable.

There are so many great places to visit in Mexico that we put together an entire Mexico Family Travel Guide . It includes our list of things to do in Playa del Carmen and Riviera Maya and our guide to visiting Puerto Vallarta , as well as reviews of fantastic resorts like the all-inclusive Hotel Xcaret Mexico . You won't be able to book your Hotel Xcaret stay quickly enough after reading about our writer's visit.

76. Bermuda

With its famous pink-sand beaches, unrivaled natural beauty, and unhurried atmosphere, Bermuda is perfect for family getaways. But even with its slower pace, there are still so many things to do in Bermuda, including sailing and boating, beaches and nature reserves, cultural sites, and more. See our list of the 25 best things to do in Bermuda with kids .

77. Turks and Caicos

With pillowy white sand, clear turquoise waters, and laid-back vibes, Grace Bay Beach in Providenciales, Turks and Caicos, is consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world. Our writer wrote a glowing review of Ocean Club Resort on Grace Bay Beach. Another great Grace Bay resort is the all-inclusive  Beaches Turks and Caicos . You can't go wrong by booking a stay at Ocean Club or Beaches .

78. Jamaica

Jamaica is a popular Caribbean destination for families due to its plethora of all-inclusive resorts. We have reviews of several of them, including the Hotel Riu Palace Tropical Bay and the Grand Palladium Jamaica Resort & Spa , in our Jamaica Travel Guide . If you like what you read, book your stay at the Hotel Riu or the Grand Palladium today.

79. Puerto Rico

The US territory of Puerto Rico has the same tropical feel as any other Caribbean island, but you don't need a passport to visit. Our writer wrote a glowing review of the Hyatt Regency Grand Reserve , which embraces its motto of "doing nothing means everything". Read the review, then book your own trip .

There are few things quite as magical as the Eiffel Tower. Photo by Jody Mercier

Best Family Vacation Destinations in Europe

80.  paris, france.

From trekking through the  Louvre Museum  (home of the  Mona Lisa ) to climbing the  Eiffel Tower  to wandering along cobblestoned alleys, our NYC editor raved about her family's bucket-list trip to Paris. She shares many of the best family-friendly Paris activities in our  Paris city guide . 

81. London, England

Our NYC editor had a fantastic time in London with her family and compiled a list of over 60 things to do in London with kids . Live theater on the West End, Big Ben , the London Eye , the Harry Potter studio tour , double-decker red buses... we could go on and on!

82. Stockholm, Sweden

Sweden's capital city of Stockholm offers an amazing blend of historic and modern things to do for all ages. Surrounded by water and made up of more than a dozen islands, Stockholm offering up stunning views. The streets are impeccably clean, and many are blocked off to cars. You're also likely to meet local families at the many playgrounds that dot this kid-friendly and outdoors-loving city.

Check out our guide to visiting Stockholm with kids .

83. Iceland

Take your family to Iceland to swim in the Blue Lagoon , see waterfalls and geysers, go whale and puffin watching, and maybe even get a glimpse of the Northern Lights between September and April. Learn more in our list of 10 things to do on a family trip to Iceland .

84. Vienna, Austria

Billy Joel once crooned, "Vienna waits for you"... but don't make it wait  too  long. Our editor-in-chief raves about the Austrian capital in our Vienna city guide , in which she writes of interesting museums and cultural sites, pretty palaces, boat rides along the Danube, and lots more.

85. Amsterdam, The Netherlands

With its placid canals, narrow cobblestone streets, and diminutive canal houses, Amsterdam is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It's also a great city to visit with kids because playgrounds are plentiful, restaurants serve child favorites like pancakes and French fries, and museums are geared towards kids. And because every Dutch person learns English at a young age, language isn't a barrier.

Our list of the 30 best things to do in Amsterdam with kids will help your family have an epic vacation. 

86. Barcelona, Spain

Barcelona is a city so gorgeous and lively that you’ll never run out of things to see or do with kids. See wildlife at the Barcelona Zoo and Barcelona Aquarium , marvel at Gaudi's fantastical Park Güell , chase and pop bubbles at the Arc de Triomf , and so much more. We detail it all in our list of 25 things to do in Barcelona with kids .

It would be impossible to visit Haines, Alaska without seeing a bear (or many)! Photo by Mommy Poppins

More Top Family Vacation Destinations

Alaska is on many families' vacation bucket lists, and it's also a popular cruise stop. Our Alaska Family Travel Guide will help you plan the perfect trip to Alaska. It includes tips on visiting Juneau and Haines from our founder, who has spent extensive time in Alaska, as well as what to know before taking a Disney cruise to Alaska .

Spectacular beaches, lush landscapes, a relaxed vibe... there's a reason the Hawaiian islands are such a popular vacation destination. The island of Oahu (home to Hawaii's capital, Honolulu) provides the perfect blend of family fun and relaxation, as you'll find in our list of  30 things to do in Oahu with kids .

Disney's Aulani Resort is one of the best Oahu resorts for families. Check out our founder's  review of Aulani  to learn why, then  book your family's stay . 

89. Quebec City, Canada

Want to feel like you're in Europe without the long travel time? Head to Quebec City, where you can walk cobblestone streets, sit in bistros, and order in French without a transatlantic plane ticket. As the only walled city in North America and a Unesco World Heritage site, Quebec City is full of history, but offers many modern attractions like museums, an indoor amusement park, and great parks.

Read our founder's list of 25 things to do in Quebec City with kids.

90. Montreal, Canada

With the perfect mix of old-town charm and plenty of modern attractions, Montreal has something for everyone—museums, outdoor adventures, historic sites, and so much more. Plus, thanks to Montreal’s deep ties to France, it’s a great place to eat French favorites such as crepes and fondue. Check out our guide to visiting Montreal with kids .

91. Seoul, South Korea

South Korean culture has exploded in popularity through music, movies, and food, and Seoul (its capital city) is the best place to experience the culture firsthand. Seoul's top-notch public transportation system makes it easy to travel around the city with kids. The locals are very friendly, so even visitors with little or no knowledge of the language can easily find people to help them.

After two family trips to Seoul, our writer compiled a list of the 35 best things to do in Seoul with kids . 

92. Amusement Parks

If you're looking for thrills and adventure for your next family vacation, consider a trip to an amusement park. There are so many theme parks across the country to plan a vacation around. Some are located near gorgeous beaches or fun cities. Others are destinations in and of themselves. You'll find the perfect one for your family in our list of the 40 best amusement parks in the US .

River water fuels the activity pools and slides at Schlitterbahn Water Park. Photo courtesy of the park

93. Water Parks

Some water parks are so amazing, they can be the travel destination themselves. Choose a park from our list of the best outdoor water parks in the US and find a hotel near it. Our favorite indoor water parks in the US are all part of fantastic resorts with lots of other activities to keep families busy. Or, check out our list of nearly 30 fantastic family resorts with water parks .

94. Dude Ranches

If you’ve always dreamed of roaming the open plains in a saddle, it might be time for a dude ranch vacation. Spending your day on horseback before indulging in a five-star meal is just the beginning when you book a dude ranch getaway. These resorts offer a wide range of activities designed for families, from fly fishing to campfire sing-alongs.

We share some must-try dude ranch vacations for families to help you pick the best one. 

95. US National Parks

National parks are great destinations for families seeking an outdoorsy vacation. Our  US National Parks Family Travel Guide  explores some of the prettiest national parks to visit with kids, including  Zion National Park ,  Acadia National Park ,  Yosemite , and more.

Heavenly Ski Resort in South Lake Tahoe is just what it sounds like... heavenly! Photo courtesy of the resort

96. Ski Resorts

Skiing is the perfect winter vacation activity for families, whether you have beginners who want to take lessons on the bunny slope or experienced skiers looking for a challenge. Many ski resorts also offer other activities like tubing, ice skating, and indoor pools. Even non-skiers will enjoy cozying up by the fire with a hot chocolate (or something a little, er, stronger).

Here are our picks for the  best ski resorts in the US for family vacations .

97. Camping Sites

There are few greater bonding experiences for families than pitching a tent and roughing it in the great outdoors while telling  ghost stories , playing  camping games , and singing campfire songs . Our Camping Travel Guide details some of the best kid-friendly campgrounds throughout the US, from west coast beach camping sites to the 16 best family campgrounds in New Jersey .

 All locations of glamping chain Huttopia offer plenty of amenities for kids. Photo courtesy of Huttopia

98. Glamping Spots

If you love the idea of camping—but not the idea of sleeping on the ground in a flimsy tent—then glamping may be the answer. Glamping is an elevated form of camping that gives families a true nature retreat with more luxurious accommodations—think glamping tents and cabins with beds, bathrooms, kitchenettes, electricity, and other amenities.

Check out our list of the  best glamping spots in the US for families .

99.  Niagara Falls

Hailed as one of the wonders of the world, Niagara Falls is a must-see destination for families. Its breathtaking beauty and wonder can't be overstated, and the pictures never do it justice. Read our  tips for visiting Niagara Falls with kids  so your family can see it in person.

Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours in Durango, CO offers gentle rafting trips for kids starting at age 4. Photo courtesy of Mild to Wild Rafting & Jeep Tours

100. River Rafting Trips

River rafting is one of America's most adventurous pastimes and a great way to stay cool in the summer months. Whether you're looking for lazy-river vibes with your littlest adventurers or high-speed rapids for the thrill seekers in your life, there's a trip for you on our list of the  best river rafting trips for kids of all ages .

This post was originally published in May 2010. It was updated in 2023.

This article contains some affiliate links, which means we might earn a small commission if you book a hotel or activity. There is no extra cost to the reader. We only recommend hotels and services that we have personally used or have thoroughly researched.

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