Making Memories in the Midwest: 3 Fun Midwest Roadtrip Ideas

Welcome to the Midwest! Known for its rich 19^th-century pioneer heritage, the Midwest offers an abundance of activities, vast landscapes and plenty of room for exploration. Cue up the snacks and hit the road as we’ve round up the top places to head out and see within the region.

• Explore Route 66: Chicago, IL to St. Louis, Missouri
  • Up for a little adventure? Start in the Windy City, where the historic sign stands for the beginning of Route 66. Take a drive and enjoy the Midwest portion of the route, filled with iconic sights and activities. After loading up on a deep dish meal in Chicago, head over to Wilmington, IL (60-miles away) to visit the Gemini Giant, a landmark stature on Route 66. The 30-foot-tall “Muffler Man,” sits right outside the Launching Pad drive-in restaurant and offers visitors an artistic glimpse of props found throughout the USA in the sixties, including a silver rocket ship, astronaut’s space helmet and more. Next, head over to Springfield, IL where history enthusiasts can check out Abraham Lincoln’s home, tomb and the Presidential Library and Museum. Finally, end your Mid-west adventure with an overnight stay in St. Louis, where iconic sights such as the Gateway Arch National Park, City Museum and the Chain of Rocks Bridge are sure to delight!

• Discover Minnesota Through a Scenic Drive Along Lake Superior
  • For those who prefer to stick to one state, Minnesota provides a range of activities sure to delight every type of traveler.
    • For the beer-enthusiast and craft cocktail aficionados, head over to Duluth, Minnesota where you’ll find an intriguing craft beer scene and an award winning micro-distillery, Vikre Distillery, located at the foot of the iconic Aerial Lift Bridge. While in the area, be sure to also check out Bob Dylan Way, for a glimpse of the music legend’s birthplace.
    • For the photographers and outdoor explorers, head over to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse (the most photographed spots within the state), near Two Harbors, Minnesota to see stunning vistas and cascading waterfalls.
    • For the shoppers, head over to the Mall of America, the nation’s biggest mall for a day of shopping along the 500+ stores.
    • For the backpackers, the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in the northeastern tip of the state, is a backpacker’s paradise with over 1 million acres to roam. There are several hiking trails and over 1,200 miles of canoe routes, creating the perfect escape to head outdoors and disconnect.
• Splurge on a Getaway to Greenough, MT
  • Whether you’re looking to get away with your immediate family, or planning more of a multi-family excursion, The Resort at Paws Up, located in Greenough, MT, provides an expansive playground of over 37,000-acres, for the ultimate getaway. Go glamping in one of their signature multi-person tents or chose from one of their many timber cabins for luxurious accommodations. What should you do? The resort offers various activities including fly-fishing, horseback riding, ATVs, mountain biking, all-you-can eat buffets and more!