States like Minnesota and Wisconsin may not be your first choice for summer travel, but they’re full of hidden gems. These “flyover” states have much more to offer than a clean airport.
Skip a coastal trip this summer to explore the best vacation spots throughout the Midwest.
Bustling cities, picturesque lakes, and underrated national parks await you at these summer vacation destinations.
Chicago, Illinois
Chicago is one of the best Midwest summer vacations. You’ll love the arts, culture, food, and urban nature areas regardless of age. Embark on a river cruise, eat at Navy Pier, and catch a baseball game at the iconic Wrigley Field. When you need to beat the heat, there are plenty of indoor activities in Chicago like sky-high observation decks and exceptional museums.
Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
Lake Superior’s Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore is a can’t-miss destination. It has miles of dramatic cliffs, soft beaches, and hidden waterfalls. Watersports like kayaking and boating let you get up close and personal with the colorful sandstone formations.
Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota
Many overlook Voyageurs, an affordable national park in northern Minnesota that is perfect for the entire family. This expansive park has beautiful lakes and forests you can enjoy year-round. Consider camping to stargaze and see the Northern Lights after dark.
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
The stunning resort city of Lake Geneva feels like a European oasis in southern Wisconsin. This lakefront destination is famous for its outdoor recreation and 19th-century architecture. Stay in a luxury hotel, tour historic mansions, and enjoy the shoreline at a local beach park.
North Shore, Minnesota
You’ll be awestruck by the rugged beauty of Minnesota’s North Shore. Stretching from Duluth to Grand Portage, this 145-mile-long region overlooks Lake Superior. You’ll find charming towns, pristine wilderness areas, and dramatic waterfront views throughout the North Shore.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Mackinac Island is a one-of-a-kind Midwestern escape. This unique island lies in Lake Huron and has been entirely car-free since the late 1800s. As a result, it’s a peaceful and picturesque place to step back in time during a day or a weekend.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Wisconsin
Prepare to be amazed by Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. It comprises over 20 Lake Superior islands teeming with wildlife, history, and postcard-worthy sights. Explore the lakeshore on land or water and watch for native species like bald eagles and black bears.
Indiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Indiana Dunes National Park is an underrated summer vacation spot. The park boasts 15,000 acres of dunes, forests, marshes, and Lake Michigan shorelines. You can fully immerse yourself on a camping trip by fishing, hiking, and swimming.
Custer State Park, South Dakota
Tap into your wild side at Custer State Park in South Dakota. There are over 70,000 acres of rolling hills, lakes, meadows, and striking rock formations. Kayak and swim in Sylvan Lake, hike to the top of Black Elk Peak, and spot herds of bison driving along Wildlife Loop Road.
Lake McConaughy, Nebraska
Head to Lake McConaughy, Nebraska’s largest reservoir, for fun in the sun. It’s a nature lover’s oasis, with opportunities to boat, fish, camp, scuba dive, and more. The white sandy beaches are ideal for unplugging from the chaos of daily life to reconnect with loved ones.
Isle Royale National Park, Michigan
The remoteness of Isle Royale National Park makes it an excellent getaway for families, couples, and friends. Because it’s so isolated, you can only access the park on a ferry or seaplane. Once there, sightsee picturesque lighthouses, paddle the waterways, and spot wild wolves and moose.
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Wisconsin Dells has something for everyone to enjoy. Kids and adults will have a blast visiting the local waterparks and resorts. Spend an afternoon at the scenic Mirror Lake State Park to taste the outdoors.
Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri
Lake of the Ozarks is among Missouri’s top summer vacation spots. The large reservoir has a classic resort town atmosphere with ample recreation, shopping, and dining opportunities. Visitors of all ages will enjoy taking advantage of the lake’s amenities.
Take the family on an unforgettable camping trip this summer
Camping is the perfect excuse to reconnect with loved ones in nature. You don’t have to spend much to create priceless memories.
18 Unforgettable Camping Trips for Families That Won’t Break the Bank
Get off the beaten path at these underrated US states
The U.S. has many hidden gems worth discovering on your next vacation. Plan a trip to these underrated states before they get too popular.
14 Underrated US States to Visit Before They’re Overrun
Elise Armitage is an entrepreneur and founder of What The Fab, a travel + lifestyle blog based in California. At the beginning of 2019, Elise left her corporate job at Google to chase her dreams: being an entrepreneur and helping women find fabulous in the everyday. Since then, she’s launched her SEO course Six-Figure SEO, where she teaches bloggers how to create a passive revenue stream from their website using SEO. Featured in publications like Forbes, Elle, HerMoney, and Real Simple, Elise is a firm believer that you can be of both substance and style.
