Midwest Travel Guide

A comprehensive travel guide to the Midwest region of the United States. This guide features a list of places to visit, activities to do, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture and customs, safety and health, and transportation options to help you plan your trip.


Introduction to Midwest

The Midwest region of the United States is composed of 12 states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Known for its diverse landscapes, rich history, and welcoming locals, the Midwest is the heart of America. Travelers will find something for everyone here, from the bustling cities to the tranquil countryside, the historic sites, and the natural wonders.

List of Places to Visit in Midwest

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Art Institute of Chicago, Illinois

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, with a collection of more than 300,000 works of art spanning over 5,000 years of human history. Visitors can view iconic paintings such as American Gothic by Grant Wood and A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat.

The Henry Ford, Michigan

The Henry Ford museum and Greenfield Village is a complex of museums and historical buildings located in Dearborn, Michigan. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the history of America with exhibits that showcase the inventions of Henry Ford, the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, and other great Americans.

Gateway Arch, Missouri

The Gateway Arch is an iconic monument in St. Louis. Visitors can take a tram to the top to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city.

Natural Attractions of Midwest: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Lake Superior, Minnesota

Lake Superior is the largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area. Visitors can hike along the shoreline or take a boat tour to see the stunning cliffs, waterfalls, and rock formations.

Badlands National Park, South Dakota

The Badlands National Park is a unique landscape of towering canyons, spires, and otherworldly rock formations. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, and wildlife watching in this remote wilderness.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, Ohio

Located between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is a scenic oasis with over 125 miles of hiking trails, waterfalls, and historic landmarks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Midwest

Ozark Trail, Missouri

The Ozark Trail is a 350-mile hiking and biking trail located in southern Missouri. The route takes visitors through the scenic wilderness of the Ozark Mountains, with panoramic views of the Missouri countryside.

The Root River Trail, Minnesota

The Root River Trail is a 42-mile paved trail that takes visitors through charming small towns and lush countryside in southeastern Minnesota. Along the way, visitors can enjoy fishing, tubing, or kayaking in the river.

The Little Miami Scenic Trail, Ohio

The Little Miami Scenic Trail is a 50-mile paved trail that follows the Little Miami River through the rural countryside of southwestern Ohio. The trail passes through quaint villages and offers stunning views of the river valley.

Best Things to Do in Midwest: Activities and Tours

The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium, Iowa

Located in Dubuque, Iowa, the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is the perfect place for families to explore the wonders of the underwater world. Visitors can see more than 100 species of animals, including freshwater turtles, otters, and alligators.

Shoreline Sightseeing Tour, Illinois

Shoreline Sightseeing Tours is a Chicago-based boat tour company that offers visitors breathtaking views of the city skyline from the water. Visitors can choose from a variety of tours, including fireworks cruises, architecture tours, and riverwalk boat rides.

Amish Country Tours, Ohio

Amish Country Tours offers visitors a glimpse into the unique culture of the Amish community in Ohio. Visitors can take a buggy tour through picturesque farmland, taste homemade Amish cuisine, and shop for handmade goods.

Week-Long Itinerary for Midwest

Day Destination Activity
1 Chicago, Illinois Explore Museum Campus
2 Milwaukee, Wisconsin Visit Milwaukee Art Museum
3 Minneapolis, Minnesota Visit Mall of America
4 Mount Rushmore, South Dakota Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial
5 Des Moines, Iowa Visit Pappajohn Sculpture Park
6 Kansas City, Missouri Visit Boulevard Brewing Company
7 St. Louis, Missouri Visit Gateway Arch

Food and Drink Scene of Midwest

Must-Try Dishes

Deep-Dish Pizza, Chicago, Illinois

Chicago-style deep-dish pizza is a bread-like crust baked in a deep-dish pan filled with cheese, sauce, and toppings of your choice. The pie is so thick you will need a fork and knife to eat it!

Pierogies, Polish-American cuisine

Potts or pockets of lightly boiled dough filled with mashed potatoes, sauerkraut, cheese, or other ingredients. It is typically served boiled, sautéed, or fried, with melted butter and onions.

Cincinnati Chili, Cincinnati, Ohio

Cincinnati Chili is made with ground beef and a unique blend of spices such as cinnamon, cloves, and cocoa powder. It is often served over spaghetti and topped with shredded cheese and onions.

Local Beverages

Wisconsin Craft Beer

Wisconsin is known for its craft beer scene, with more than 180 breweries throughout the state. Visitors can take a tour of brewery, sample some of the local brews, and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.

Michigan Wine

Michigan has more than 130 wineries, producing award-winning wines from grapes grown in the unique climate and soil conditions of the region. Visitors can take a wine tour and sample some of the delicious wines produced here.

Kansas City Barbeque

Kansas City is known for its slow-cooked, savory barbeque, with a unique blend of seasoning and sauce that has become famous around the world. Visitors can sample the delicious meats at one of the many barbeque restaurants in the city.

Where to Stay in Midwest: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Palmer House, Chicago

The Palmer House is a historic hotel in the heart of Chicago, with a prime location near the Chicago Riverwalk and the Magnificent Mile. The hotel has been a favorite of celebrities and dignitaries since it opened in 1871.

The Pfister Hotel, Milwaukee

The Pfister Hotel is a legendary hotel in Milwaukee, with a grand ballroom, an art collection of more than 100 works of art, and a luxurious spa. The hotel has been a favorite of politicians, athletes, and artists since it opened in 1893.

Foshay Tower, Minneapolis

The Foshay Tower is a historic hotel in downtown Minneapolis, with a unique art deco design and stunning views of the city. The hotel has been a favorite of travelers since it opened in 1929.

What to Buy in Midwest: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Cheese from Wisconsin

Wisconsin is known for its cheese, with more than 600 varieties produced in the state. Visitors can buy cheese curds, cheddar, colby, and other delicious cheeses to bring home as a souvenir.

Huckleberry Jam from Montana

Huckleberries are a wild fruit that grows in the mountains of Montana. Visitors can buy huckleberry jam, syrup, candies, and other products at local markets and gift shops.

Quilts from Ohio

Ohio is known for its Amish community, which produces some of the most beautiful, hand-crafted quilts in the country. Visitors can buy these intricate and colorful quilts at local craft shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Midwest

The Midwest is known for its friendly locals and laid-back atmosphere. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions, such as saying “please” and “thank you” and holding doors open for others. The region has a strong work ethic, and visitors should be prepared for the stores to close early in the evening and on Sundays.

Best Time to Visit Midwest

The best time to visit the Midwest is from May to October, when the weather is mild and the outdoor activities are plentiful. The peak season for many attractions and festivals is from June to August.

Do’s and Don’ts of Midwest

Do:

  • Explore the local culture and history.
  • Try the local cuisine and drinks.
  • Explore the outdoors, hiking/biking trails, and national parks.
  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Get ready to enjoy the hearty portion of food.

Don’t:

  • Litter the natural attractions or leave trails.
  • Interrupt or disrespect locals.
  • Talk during a theater performance or a movie.

Safety and Health

Safety in Midwest

The Midwest is generally a safe region to visit, but visitors should take precautions when exploring urban areas or hiking in remote wilderness areas. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night in the cities or leaving valuables visible in your car.

Health in Midwest

Visitors should take precautions against the sun, especially during the summer months, by wearing sunscreen and a hat. Insect repellent is also recommended for outdoor activities, as ticks and mosquitoes can carry diseases.

Getting to Midwest: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Midwest

The major airports in the Midwest are Chicago O’Hare International Airport, Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport, Detroit Metropolitan Airport, and Kansas City International Airport. These airports have frequent flights to and from major domestic and international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Midwest

Greyhound Lines, Megabus, and other bus lines serve a number of Midwest cities. The major bus stations are located in Chicago and Minneapolis.

Other Options

Other options include driving, which allows visitors to enjoy the scenic routes and visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations. Train travel is also an option, with Amtrak serving many Midwest cities.

How to Get Around in Midwest

Visitors can easily get around the Midwest by car, by bus, or by train. Rental cars are widely available, and the region has an extensive network of highways and scenic byways.

Where to Go Next from Midwest: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Visitors can extend their trip by visiting nearby destinations such as the Rocky Mountains, Yellowstone National Park, or the Great Lakes. Other popular destinations include the East Coast or the West Coast of the United States.

Conclusion

The Midwest region of the United States is a diverse and beautiful destination, offering visitors a chance to explore the local culture, history, and natural wonders. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and wide range of attractions, the Midwest has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or a relaxing vacation, the Midwest is the perfect destination for your next trip.



    Driftless Area
    Illinois
    Indiana
    Iowa
    Michigan
    Minnesota
    Missouri
    Ohio
    Wisconsin