Planning a family road trip?
The Midwest is a great place to take a road trip. There are so many fun things to do and see in this region of the country. You can explore historic towns, visit amazing parks, and check out some of the best museums in the country.
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Just West of the Mississippi River, there are several options that are not only budget-friendly but also enjoyable for the whole family. If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next family road trip, here are some of the best places to visit in the Midwest:
Route 66 Road Trip – Illinois
This summer, kick your road trip off right on the legendary Mother Road! When it comes to road trips, there’s nothing more iconic than Route 66.
And what better place to start your journey than in Chicago, the Windy City?
Chicago, Illinois
Route 66 starts in Chicago and ends at the end of the Santa Monica Pier in California! You’ll find the historic “Begin Route 66” sign on Michigan Ave just down the street from Millenium Park.
While you’re in Chicago, be sure to check out some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as Millennium Park, the Field Museum, and Navy Pier. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at one of the city’s many famous restaurants.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are several family-friendly hotels in Chicago, but we often stay at the Palmer House Hilton. It’s a historic hotel that’s centrally located and you can easily walk to many of the city’s best attractions.
Springfield, Illinois
If you don’t want to drive north from Chicago to Wisconsin, head west (about 3 hours) on Route 66 to Springfield, Illinois. This city is the perfect place to stop if you’re looking for a mix of history and outdoor fun.
As the home of Abraham Lincoln, Springfield has a number of historical sites that are great for families. My favorites include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, Lincoln Tomb, and the Old State Capitol. You’ll find a few fun, off-the-beaten-path things to do with kids too like Baker Creek Pioneer Village.
In addition to its historical significance, Springfield is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails, including the 11-mile Sangamon River Trail. The city is also home to Knight’s Action Park, a water park with a lazy river, wave pool, and slides.
If you’re looking for a place to stay in Springfield, I recommend the Wyndham Springfield City Centre. It’s right in the heart of downtown and within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions.
Mansfield, Illinois
50 minutes east of Springfield, you’ll find the small town of Mansfield, Illinois. This is a great place to stop if you’re looking for a taste of small-town America.
Mansfield is home to Rocky Ridge Farm, the adult home of Laura Ingalls Wilder. The farm is open for tours from April through October. Visitors can take a wagon ride, visit the animals, and see the restored buildings.
The town is also home to the Illinois Railway Museum. This museum is one of the largest railway museums in the country and it houses over 400 pieces of equipment. The museum offers train rides on select weekends
St. Louis, Missouri
Further west along Route 66 is St. Louis, Missouri. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Gateway Arch. St. Louis is a city where you can spend a week and not see all of the fantastic things to do. The nicest thing? Many of them are absolutely free!
The Saint Louis Zoo is one of the finest free attractions in the region, and it’s one of the top-rated zoos in the country. The penguin exhibit is amazing, and the train ride around the park is well worth the price.
The Missouri Botanical Garden is another great free attraction in St. Louis. This 79-acre garden is one of the oldest and largest in the United States. The Japanese Garden is my favorite part, but the Climatron greenhouse and the children’s garden are also worth a visit.
Another free attraction you don’t want to miss is the St. Louis Science Center. It’s right up the road from the zoo – and did I mention it’s free, free, free?! The science center always has amazing exhibits and attractions for all ages.
Oh, and I almost forgot: The Magic House! This place is a must-visit for families with young children. It’s an interactive children’s museum with hands-on exhibits, dress-up clothes, a 3-story slide, and more.
Looking for the best food? If you’re visiting on a weekend, check out Soulard Farmers Market, a St. Louis tradition for over 200 years! Fitz’s Root Beer Factory and Blueberry Hill are two iconic places you want to add to your itinerary. Blueberry Hill is a quintessential American cafe and music venue that is also suitable for families (at least during the day).
If you’re looking for a place to stay in St. Louis, I recommend the Chase Park Plaza. It’s right in the heart of the Central West End and it’s within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions, including the Science Center and Forest Park.
Looking for more family experiences? Take a look at these and others on Get Your Guide.
One City Name Across Two States – Kansas City
Just a few hours west of St. Louis is Kansas City. While the Kansas side is often overshadowed by its Missouri counterpart, Kansas City, Kansas has a lot to offer families.
Kansas City, Kansas
One of the best things to do in Kansas City, Kansas (KCK) is to visit the Kansas Speedway, where you can catch a NASCAR race or take a hot lap around the track. If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, don’t miss Legends Outlets Kansas City. This open-air shopping center has over 75 stores and restaurants, making it the perfect place to spend a day (or two).
If you’ve ever been curious about how glass marbles are made, then you’ll want to add the Moon Marble Company in Bonner Springs. This family-friendly attraction offers live demonstrations of the marble-making process as well as a marble museum.
For a taste of Kansas City’s rich history, visit the Wyandotte County Historical Museum. This museum chronicles the area’s Native American, pioneer, and industrial past.
When it comes to accommodation, I recommend the Homewood Suites by Hilton at KC Speedway. This hotel is adjacent to the Kansas Speedway and it offers free shuttle service to and from the track.
Stop in the Show-Me State – Missouri
Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO)
The Missouri side of Kansas City is where you’ll find great free attractions. Start your visit at Union Station, a historic train station that has been transformed into a shopping and entertainment complex.
Just across the street from Union Station is Crown Center, home to the world-famous Hallmark Visitors Center. This free attraction offers interactive exhibits, a film on the history of Hallmark, and a chance to make your own greeting card.
And no visit to Kansas City, Kansas would be complete without a trip to the American Jazz Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of jazz music. It’s also home to the Blue Room, a popular live music venue.
For families with young children, the Kansas City Zoo is a must-visit. With over 200 acres, there’s plenty to see and do at this world-class zoo. Best of all, admission is free on Mondays!
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is one of my favorite art museums in the country and it’s free to the public. This museum is massive, with over 35,000 works of art in its collection. All the major exhibits have a family-friendly focus, making it a great place to visit with kids.
The National World War I Museum and Memorial is a must-see attraction (admission required) in KCMO. This museum tells the story of the Great War through interactive exhibits, historic artifacts, and personal accounts from those who lived through it.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, I recommend the InterContinental Kansas City at the Plaza. This hotel is right in the heart of KCMO and it’s within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions, including the Nelson-Atkins Museum and the Country Club Plaza.
Kansas City, Missouri is best known for its barbecue. While there are plenty of great places to eat on both sides of the state line, my favorites include Q39, Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, and Gates Bar-B-Q.
Hays, Kansas
Hays is a small city in western Kansas with a lot to offer families. The Sternberg Museum of Natural History is a great museum with interactive exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and minerals.
The Fort Hays State Historic Site is another great place to visit. This living history museum lets you step back in time and experience what life was like on the Kansas frontier.
Throughout town, search out the many limestone sculptures by artist Pete Felten. These sculptures are located in front of businesses and public buildings. One of the most popular is the “Monarch of the Plains”, a bison statue that sits out in front of Old Fort Hays.
Overnight accommodations in Hays are limited, but you’ll find several chain hotels along I-70 if you’re passing through. You can read more about things to do in Hays Kansas and what we did on our last trip here.
If you’re looking for a place to eat, I recommend Gella’s Diner & Lb. Brewing Company downtown. This restaurant has a great menu with something for everyone, and the beer is brewed right on site.
Branson, Missouri
There are all kinds of things to do in Branson with kids. Silver Dollar City, an old-fashioned themed park, is a top attraction. The park has over 40 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, a water park, and live entertainment.
Another great place to visit in Branson is Dolly Parton’s Stampede Dinner Show. This dinner show features 32 magnificent horses and a cast of top-notch riders.
You can’t visit Branson without taking a ride on the Showboat Branson Belle, a 500-passenger paddle wheeler that cruises Table Rock Lake. The two-hour cruise includes a four-course meal, live entertainment, and stunning views of the Ozark Mountains.
Related: 5 Local Restaurants in Branson MO Your Family Has to Try
For a place to stay, I recommend the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel. It’s a short walk from many of the city’s attractions, including the Branson Landing, a popular shopping and dining destination on Lake Taneycomo.
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Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Halfway along Route 66 and at the Crossroads of the US, is Oklahoma City. Some may not include Oklahoma in the midwest, but I do. Plus I live here, so I’m partial.
Once considered a flyover city, OKC is now a thriving metropolis with plenty to offer families. This city is where I live and it has a lot to offer families, especially families with other children and teens.
OKC Riversports is one of my favorite places to spend a hot summer day. This whitewater rafting and kayaking center is the official Olympic training site for whitewater slalom and it’s open to the public. Located on the Oklahoma River, it’s the perfect place to cool off during hot summer days and it’s a great workout, too.
If you’re looking for something a little more low-key, take a walk or bike ride along the Bricktown Canal. This canal is lined with restaurants and shops and it’s a great place to people-watch.
For a dose of culture, visit the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. This museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the American West. You can also visit Historic Stockyards City, where you can learn about the city’s cowboy past.
If you want local art, then you’ll want to check out the Paseo Arts District. This arts district is home to dozens of galleries, studios, and cafes. For street art, head to the Plaza District to see Plaza Walls, some of the best wall murals in OKC.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, I recommend the OMNI Convention Center Hotel. This hotel is attached to the convention center and right across the street from Scissortail Park. It’s within walking distance of many of the city’s attractions, including the Chesapeake Energy Arena and Brick, or you can board the downtown trolley for a short ride. Another fun option is the 21C Museum Hotel, which is located in the historic Ford Motor Company Assembly Plant. This hotel has its own contemporary art museum and it’s within walking distance of the Paseo Arts District.
Other attractions in OKC include the Myriad Botanical Gardens, Oklahoma City Zoo, and Frontier City amusement park.
Wisconsin Vacation Spots
If you want to road trip from Chicago, had north and continue your journey into Wisconsin.
Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
Just a short drive from Chicago, you’ll find the charming village of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. This is a great place to stop if you’re looking for a beautiful place to relax and enjoy some time on the water. Located in southeastern, Wisconsin, this was once the preferred getaway for Chicagoans seeking to escape the heat of the city.
Elkhart Lake is spring-fed and one of the clearest lakes in the country. Making it ideal for fishing, kayaking, swimming, and more. The area is also home to Road America, one of the oldest and most prestigious road-racing tracks in the United States. Here you watch races, take a UTV ride, or take a driving lesson yourself!
In addition the Road America, there is excellent hiking and biking in the area, including a section of the Ice Age Trail. This scenic trail is perfect for a family hike and offers stunning views of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, The Siebkens Resort, Osthoff Resort, and Shore Club are great options. All three are located on the shores of Elkhart Lake and offer a range of activities for the whole family. During my last visit, I stayed at the Siebkens Resort in one of the 1 bedroom condos with a full kitchen. It was the perfect size for my family of four and the private beach was a plus.
Check out my list of restaurants near Elkhart Lake that you’ll want to visit when in town.
Door County, Wisconsin
Just a few hours north of Elkhart Lake, you’ll find Door County, Wisconsin. This peninsula is one of the most popular summer destinations in the Midwest and for good reason!
Door County is a great place for families who enjoy spending time outdoors. There are five state parks, several county parks, and countless nature trails to explore. The area has ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, hiking, cycling, and more. Take a Cave Point kayak trip to see the caves and cliffs along the shoreline or climb The Eagle Tower at Peninsula State Park.
During your visit, be sure to take a ferry ride to one of the many islands, such as Washington Island or Rock Island. You can also take a cruise on one of the many boats that offer tours of the peninsula. Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island is a great place for swimming and rock skipping. It’s one of only 5 beaches in the world with a smooth limestone rock bottom.
For a more relaxed pace, Door County is also home to numerous wineries, breweries, and distilleries. You can tour the orchards in Egg Harbor or go cherry-picking at one of the many local farms.
Find more things to do in Door County here and in the winter here.
If you’re looking for a place to stay, there are several family-friendly hotels and resorts in Door County. During my last visit, I stayed at The Dorr in Sister Bay. It’s one of the newest hotels on the peninsula and it’s within walking distance of shops and restaurants.
While you are here, don’t miss attending a traditional Fish Boil.
Road Trip Through South Dakota
No list of great Midwest vacation spots would be complete without South Dakota. This region is home to some of the most beautiful scenery in the country, from the Badlands to the Black Hills.
The best time to visit this part of the country is during the summer when you can enjoy all the outdoor activities on offer.
Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The Great Plains Zoo, the Butterfly House & Aquarium, and the Midco® Aquatic Center are all excellent choices for activities that go on all day.
Rapid City, South Dakota
Rapid City is home to Mount Rushmore National Monument, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. In Rapid City, you can also visit the Journey Museum and Learning Center, a great place to learn about Native American Culture and see the history of the Black Hills region.
Custer State Park is located just outside of Rapid City and it’s one of the best places to see wildlife in the Midwest. The park is home to bison, elk, deer, pronghorn, and mountain goats. You can also find scenic drives, hiking trails, and camping spots throughout the park.
Start your trip in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where you can explore Falls Park. This park is centered around the city’s falls, which are surrounded by walking and biking trails. You can also take a ride on the Sioux Falls Trolley or visit one of the many museums in town.
You may also explore the park’s renowned Needles Highway, Hwy 87. This road goes through several tunnels and over several bridges with spectacular views of the Black Hills.
Badlands National Park
From Custer State Park, continue your journey west to Badlands National Park. This national park is known for its unique rock formations, hiking trails, and wildlife. Be sure to take the scenic drive through the park and stop at some of the overlooks. You can also hike to the top of Castle Rock for a great view of the surrounding area.
Other Places Nearby: Things to Do in Hot Springs, South Dakota
The Day The Music Died – Clearlake, Iowa
For any 50’s music fan, road trip out to Clearlake, Iowa, about 115 miles north of Des Moines.
The song written by Don McLean, American Pie, refers to “the day the music died”. This was the day in 1959 the world lost three wonderful music icons at once: Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and “The Big Bopper” J. P. Richardson died in an airplane crash. The crash site, located in Clearlake is an incredible tribute to the late rock and roll performers. It is in a giant field that is only reachable by walking, and the entrance is noticeable by a large pair of Buddy Holly’s iconic glasses. The site itself has a collection of plastic flowers and items in tribute to the trio.
Just down the road, Surf Ballroom is the last location the trio performed before the crash. It was brought back to its original state back in 1994 and has countless pictures and exhibits of each of the performers.
Are you ready for a road trip?
I adore the Midwest because it has so many hidden gems! This area offers a lot, from beautiful zoos to the chilling sites of ancient battlefields. And don’t forget the food! The Midwest is home to some of the best barbecue and comfort food in the country. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!.
It’s a given that you’ll have an adventure wherever you go. So bundle up your kids and luggage, and hit the road. A family vacation is ideal for making lifelong family memories.
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