United States Map Midwest Region

CEUs for Midwestern Therapists & Special Educators ERI from www.educationresourcesinc.com

Introduction

The Midwest region of the United States is a diverse and fascinating area that includes 12 states, from North Dakota to Ohio. This region is known for its friendly people, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or delicious food, the Midwest has something for everyone. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest and has a rich cultural scene. It is home to the famous Navy Pier, the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), and the Art Institute of Chicago. You can also catch a Chicago Cubs or Chicago White Sox baseball game at one of the city’s iconic stadiums.

Mount Rushmore, South Dakota

Mount Rushmore is a popular tourist destination that features the faces of four former U.S. presidents carved into the side of a mountain. Visitors can take a guided tour or hike one of the park’s many trails.

Gateway Arch, Missouri

The Gateway Arch is a 630-foot-tall monument in St. Louis, Missouri. Visitors can take a tram to the top of the arch for a breathtaking view of the city and the Mississippi River.

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Mackinac Island is a picturesque island located in Lake Huron. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and historic architecture. Visitors can take a ferry to the island and explore its many hiking trails and quaint shops.

Hidden Gems

The Ozarks, Missouri

The Ozarks are a mountain range located in southern Missouri. This area is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor adventures, including hiking, fishing, and kayaking.

The Amana Colonies, Iowa

The Amana Colonies are a group of seven historic villages in Iowa. Visitors can explore the area’s rich history and unique culture, including its traditional German cuisine and handcrafted goods.

The Black Hills, South Dakota

The Black Hills are a mountain range located in western South Dakota. This area is home to several natural wonders, including the Badlands National Park and the Crazy Horse Memorial. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, camping, and rock climbing.

Food Scene

The Midwest is known for its delicious comfort food, including fried chicken, barbecue, and hot dish. Some of the region’s most popular dishes include Chicago-style deep dish pizza, Cincinnati-style chili, and St. Louis-style barbecue ribs. Visitors can also enjoy local craft beer and wine, as well as farm-to-table cuisine featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Budget-Friendly Tips

The Midwest is a great destination for budget-conscious travelers. Visitors can save money by staying in affordable hotels or campgrounds, cooking their own meals, and taking advantage of free attractions like museums and national parks. They can also find great deals on local products at farmers’ markets and flea markets.

Outdoor Adventures

The Midwest is home to several stunning natural wonders, including the Great Lakes, the Ozark Mountains, and the Badlands National Park. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, fishing, kayaking, and rock climbing in these beautiful areas. They can also visit local parks and nature reserves to see wildlife like bison, elk, and bald eagles.

Historical Landmarks

The Midwest has a rich history that is reflected in its many landmarks and historic sites. Visitors can explore the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail, the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. They can also visit the birthplace of President Abraham Lincoln in Kentucky and the childhood home of President Herbert Hoover in Iowa.

Family-Friendly Activities

The Midwest has plenty of family-friendly activities, including amusement parks, water parks, and zoos. Some of the region’s most popular attractions for families include Cedar Point amusement park in Ohio, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Nebraska, and the Mall of America in Minnesota.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

The Midwest is full of unique and interesting experiences that are off the beaten path. Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the Ozark Mountains, explore the underground caves of Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky, or visit the world’s largest ball of twine in Kansas. They can also take a scenic drive on the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River from Minnesota to Louisiana.

Natural Wonders

Vibrant Nightlife

The Midwest has a vibrant nightlife scene that includes live music, craft beer, and local cuisine. Visitors can enjoy a night out in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, listen to live music in Nashville, or explore the breweries and distilleries of Milwaukee. They can also check out local festivals and events, like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota or the Kentucky Bourbon Festival.

Local Markets

The Midwest is home to several farmers’ markets and flea markets where visitors can find unique local products and souvenirs. Some of the most popular markets include the Green City Market in Chicago, the West Side Market in Cleveland, and the Renegade Craft Fair in Minneapolis.

Beaches and Mountains

The Midwest is home to several beautiful beaches and mountains. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports on the shores of Lake Michigan or Lake Superior. They can also hike in the Ozark Mountains or ski in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Cultural Immersion

The Midwest is a diverse and multicultural region that includes Native American, German, and African American communities. Visitors can explore the unique cultures of these communities by visiting local museums, festivals, and events. They can also taste traditional cuisine and attend cultural performances.

Art and Music Scene

The Midwest has a thriving arts and music scene that includes world-class museums, galleries, and concert venues. Visitors can explore the Art Institute of Chicago, the Walker Art Center in Minneapolis, or the Detroit Institute of Arts. They can also attend concerts and music festivals, like Lollapalooza in Chicago or Summerfest in Milwaukee.

Walking Tours and Architectural Marvels

The Midwest is home to several stunning architectural marvels, including the Willis Tower in Chicago and the Gateway Arch in St. Louis. Visitors can take walking tours to explore the unique architecture of these cities, as well as the historic buildings and landmarks. They can also visit the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, Illinois, or the Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois.

Historical Sites

Biking Routes

The Midwest has several scenic biking routes that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can bike the Mickelson Trail in South Dakota, which covers 109 miles of the Black Hills, or the Katy Trail in Missouri, which covers 240 miles of the state’s beautiful countryside. They can also explore the trails of the Cuyahoga Valley National Park in Ohio.

Wellness Retreats and Adventure Sports

The Midwest is a great destination for wellness retreats and adventure sports. Visitors can attend a yoga retreat in the Ozarks, take a hot air balloon ride over the Badlands, or go ziplining in Wisconsin. They can also try their hand at rock climbing, kayaking, or mountain biking in the region’s many parks and natural areas.