An Introductory Guide to the Midwest

Do you think the Midwest is just a stretch of corn you fly over on your way to the coasts? Don’t be misled by that stereotype.

This region boasts remarkable cities like Chicago, Detroit, and Minneapolis, rich in creativity, diversity, and mouthwatering cuisine. It also encompasses the Great Lakes, resembling vast inland seas with their beaches, dunes, resort towns, and picturesque lighthouses. Plus, there are quirky roadside attractions – like the National Mustard Museum and the world’s largest ball of twine – that add character, alongside a strong brewing heritage that’s thriving, all at budget-friendly travel costs.

So why are you still waiting? Continue reading to discover everything you need to know before your Midwest adventure.

When is the best time to visit the Midwest?

Summer reigns supreme in the Midwest, with the prime season running from late May through August when the weather heats up, beaches come alive, and festivals fill the calendar. This is the moment to experience the region at its finest. In September and October, enjoy the vibrant fall foliage, abundant harvests from local orchards, and off-season deals, all while the weather remains delightful – another ideal time to explore.

Winter brings cold temperatures and snow. Many businesses may reduce their hours or close temporarily, but northern Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin often buzz with skiers and snowmobilers. Cities typically offer their best rates on accommodations and attractions during this season.

April and May can also be budget-friendly months for a visit, though expect variable weather. Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio enjoy moderate temps, but rain is common, while northern states may still feel quite chilly.

Is getting around the Midwest straightforward?

Chicago’s bustling O'Hare International Airport (ORD) serves as the region’s main gateway, acting as a hub for both United and American Airlines. Other key airports include Detroit Metro Airport (DTW), which serves Delta and Spirit Airlines, and Minneapolis-St Paul International Airport (MSP), a hub for Delta and Sun Country Airlines.

Amtrak’s national rail network is anchored in Chicago, with trains running daily to Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Detroit, Ann Arbor, and Cleveland, as well as three weekly trips to Indianapolis.

Once you're in the region, having a car is essential for getting around. Public transportation options are limited outside major cities, and even within urban areas—except Chicago, which has a solid bus and train system—you'll probably need your own vehicle for convenience. Be ready for toll roads in parts of Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Minnesota. Consider using an app like Google Maps to navigate around tolls, or keep dollar bills and quarters handy for toll booths.

How much time should I dedicate to exploring the Midwest?

The Midwest is expansive, encompassing 12 states according to the Census Bureau: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. A drive from Minneapolis in the west to Cleveland in the east takes about 11 hours and covers 760 miles, so consider these distances when planning your trip.

You could spend two days visiting one of the vibrant Midwestern cities. With four days, you can incorporate some outdoor adventures. For example, Chicago is near Indiana Dunes National Park and Indiana’s Amish Country, while Minneapolis is close to the Boundary Waters. Detroit and Ann Arbor are accessible to Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Cleveland is not far from Ohio’s Amish Country.

Spending a week allows you to immerse yourself and truly experience the region. You can explore a couple of cities along with their nearby attractions, or venture further to places like Michigan’s Upper Peninsula or northern Minnesota’s Voyageurs National Park.

Must-see attractions in the Midwest

The cities of the Midwest are its greatest treasure, so make them your starting point. Chicago stands out as the crown jewel, right in the heart of the region, featuring stunning skyscrapers, world-renowned museums, and a feast for food enthusiasts. Detroit is known for its vibrant street art, classic cars, lively jazz clubs, and striking art deco architecture. Minneapolis thrives with energetic music venues, avant-garde theater, and abundant lakes for outdoor fun. Cities like Milwaukee, Cleveland, Columbus, Indianapolis, and Ann Arbor also contribute a wealth of beer, art, and music.

Just a short distance away, yet feeling like a different world, are the quaint towns in northern Indiana and northeastern Ohio, home to some of the largest Amish communities in the world. Here, life is simple and free from cars and cell phones, with horses and buggies trotting down the roads, and the concept of selfies is non-existent. These towns encourage a slower pace, inviting you to savor a slice of pie or perhaps bid on a cow at auction.

A journey along Route 66 is another essential experience to truly appreciate the charm of the Midwest. This iconic highway begins in Chicago and winds southwest through Illinois, passing delightful diners filled with pies and quirky roadside attractions like the Gemini Giant, a towering spaceman in Wilmington, before continuing all the way to California.

The Midwest often flies under the radar as a destination for exceptional outdoor experiences, yet it offers plenty. Explore Minnesota's Boundary Waters, where you can paddle through the lush northern forests, wave at moose and bears, and catch a glimpse of the aurora borealis lighting up the night sky. On the western shores of Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes presents stunning sand hills to hike, followed by a refreshing swim in its Caribbean-blue waters. The Upper Peninsula of Michigan showcases rugged landscapes perfect for kayaking, rock climbing, and mountain biking in the summer, while offering skiing and ice caving during the winter months.

Alternatively, a visit to the Midwest could revolve around a beer pilgrimage. The region has a rich brewing heritage, thanks to the influx of German settlers in the 1800s who brought their beer-making expertise. Today, destination breweries like 3 Floyds Brewing in Indiana, Bell’s Brewery in Michigan, and New Glarus Brewing Co in Wisconsin continue this proud tradition.

My favorite pastime in the Midwest

I adore the blend of urban and rural experiences in the Midwest. Living in Chicago, one of the world’s finest cities, I can stroll along the beach-lined Lakefront Trail, gazing over Lake Michigan with its vast horizon and the silhouettes of towering skyscrapers. Within just a couple of hours' drive, I can find an entirely different scene: hiking up the windswept sand dunes at Indiana Dunes National Park, picking blueberries at a farm in southwest Michigan, or marveling at a 15-foot tall Paul Bunyan statue holding his massive ax along a rural Illinois road.

There's always a cozy diner to pop into for a slice of chocolate cream pie, a lively bar to enjoy a glass of local beer, or a roadside stand offering fresh-picked vegetables.

What is the budget for a trip to the Midwest?

The Midwest is incredibly budget-friendly. Dining and accommodations in cities like Chicago and Minneapolis are more affordable than in major southern or coastal cities, while still offering excellent quality. This affordability has attracted many chefs, artists, and designers to the area.

• Hostel dorm bed: $40–60

• Midrange hotel room for two: $160–275

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $100–225

• Public transport day pass: $4–6

• Coffee: $3

• Diner burger: $9–14

• Dinner for two: $40–60

• Beer at a bar: $6–8

What are the must-try foods in the Midwest?

Freshwater fish like walleye and perch are a treat across the region. Don’t miss state favorites such as cheese curds from Wisconsin, hotdishes (casseroles) from Minnesota, pasties (mini meat pies) from Michigan, pork tenderloin sandwiches from Indiana, and three-ways (a mix of chili, spaghetti, and cheese) from Ohio. And wherever you go, make sure to order pie for dessert!

Is there any local slang I should be aware of?

In the Midwest, 'pop' refers to soda, such as Coke or Sprite. The term 'up north' usually indicates the wooded northern regions of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Are there any potential hazards or annoyances I should keep in mind?

In summer, mosquitoes are prevalent throughout the Midwest. It's wise to bring insect repellent, especially if you're venturing into northern Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, where pesky black flies can also be a nuisance.

Be cautious of breaking waves and strong currents at Great Lakes beaches. If there are no lifeguards on duty, make sure to check the local weather forecast for conditions before swimming.

What can I expect in terms of cold weather, and what should I bring?

In snowy northern towns like Duluth, Minnesota, and Marquette, Michigan, January highs hover around 20°F. Further south, such as in Columbus, Ohio, temperatures rise to about 36°F. If you're visiting in winter, pack a warm coat and boots. It's also a good idea to have a sweater on hand year-round, as evenings can be cool even in summer.