Midwest Travel Guide
The Midwest, also known as America’s Heartland, refers to the north-central portion of the United States. It’s known for its diverse landscapes, vast farmland, cold winters, and undeniably friendly locals. As the least visited region in the country, the Midwest remains a hidden gem. There are so many exciting travel destinations to explore here, but they just don’t get the same hype as the rest of the country.
While the Midwest may not harbor ocean views, there are plenty of coastlines here! The country’s longest river, the Mississippi, runs through the Midwest. What’s more, America’s Heartland also boasts the largest group of freshwater lakes on Earth, the Great Lakes.
You might be surprised to learn that the Midwest is also home to eight National Parks. Outdoor enthusiasts will love exploring the Badlands in South Dakota or canoeing the lakes of Voyageurs in Minnesota. Foodies shouldn’t miss a chance to eat their way through Chicago or sample Kansas City’s famous BBQ. And while New England gets all the credit for the best fall colors, Door County in Wisconsin offers some stiff competition.
Destinations
Midwest Basics
States: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin
Timezone: Central Standard & Central Daylight
Climate: Humid Continental (four distinct seasons marked by warm summers and cold, snowy winters)
Major Airports:
Chicago O’Hare (ORD) – Illinois
Chicago Midway (MDW) – Illinois
Minneapolis-Saint Paul (MSP) – Minnesota
Detroit Metro (DTW) – Michigan
Cleveland-Hopkins (CLE) – Ohio
St. Louis Lambert (STL) – Missouri
Kansas City (MCI) – Missouri
Indianapolis (IND) – Indiana
Omaha Eppley Airfield (OMA) – Nebraska
Milwaukee General Mitchell (MKE) – Wisconsin
Best Time to Visit
SUMMER
This is the only time you can guarantee there won’t be snow in the Midwest! If you’re planning any water-related activities, summer is definitely the best time to visit. Summers can get uncomfortably hot and humid, however. Mosquitoes are also prevalent, so be sure to pack bug spray.
AUTUMN
The fall season is spectacular in the Midwest! Many areas burst with autumn colors, and sweater weather takes over. Unfortunately, the autumn season is quite short, lasting from about mid-September through mid-October.
WINTER
Winters are long and often brutal in the Midwest. Heavy snowfall can make for poor traveling conditions, and high winds put temps well below freezing. If you do find yourself here during the winter, there are plenty of activities to try like skiing, snowshoeing, or ice skating.
SPRING
This is another short and unpredictable season in the Midwest. It’s known for being sunny and warm one day and then cold and snowing the next. Late spring is, generally, a good time to visit, but keep in mind that you may experience some bizarre temperature swings.
bucket list experiences
Midwest Travel Guides
