With its diverse landscape of imposing bluffs, expansive river valleys, wide-open plains, and countless lakes, the Midwest is one of the best places in the world to explore. This region has plenty to offer travelers looking for adventure, and even better, it’s much more affordable than many other regions of the U.S. Yet, for some reason, it is not often top of mind for those looking for a fun vacation.
So let’s take a deep dive into the best Midwest road trips for travelers on a budget – here we go!
The Overall Best Road Trip Routes and Locations
There are amazing road trip routes around every bend in the Midwest – here are some of the best overall.
Traverse City to the Upper Peninsula
This Great Lakes excursion begins in Traverse City, Michigan and goes to one of the northernmost portions of the Midwest, the Upper Peninsula. Starting in the Lower Peninsula of the state, you’ll travel toward Mackinaw City via I-75. On the way, stargazers will particularly love an overnight stay at Headlands International Dark Sky Park, a 550-acre area void of any light pollution.
You’ll then cross the engineering marvel known as the Mackinac Bridge. This five-mile-long bridge spans the Straits of Mackinac and connects both halves of the state. You can spend a few days exploring Mackinac Island, a remote location accessible only by ferry. The speck of land in Lake Huron is known for the state park that occupies most of the land, as well as a historic military fort, local museums and shops.
Once you reach the Upper Peninsula, you’ll be in the middle of a vast woodland area, bordered by three of the Great Lakes -- in other words, there’s no shortage of recreational activities to enjoy. A good destination to set your coordinates on is Marquette, where you can find an overlook of Lake Superior on Marquette Mountain. For those that want to adventure on, Copper Harbor is the northernmost part of Michigan and another three-hour drive.
Lake Itasca to the Gulf of Mexico
Follow the Mighty Mississippi River from where it starts to where it ends. Lake Itasca, the river’s source, makes for a great destination in and of itself in Northern Minnesota, but no matter how long your stay, you can enjoy some lake-side fun by lounging on the beach, fishing or partaking in water sports. For those that want to rough it, 200 campsites are available for reservation in the state park, or you could stay at the historic Douglas Lodge, also known as “Minnesota’s Own Resort”, right next to the river’s headwaters.
And, while the Gulf of Mexico may not be in the Midwest, you have hundreds of charming river towns along the way that can make perfect road trip destinations. For example, Galena, Illinois, home to beautiful River Valley scenery, as well as historical homes, hotels and shops, and makes for a fantastic multi-night stay. Or, travel a few hours south to Davenport, Iowa, and learn about where the first railroad bridge across the mighty river was built and still stands today. You can pick up some local history along the way, like the fact that a young Abraham Lincoln worked a litigation case associated with the bridge. Better yet, travel all the way to the southernmost part of the Midwest and explore the massive Mark Twain National Park in Missouri, a good option for campers, hikers and horseback riders.
Black Hills - Badlands of South Dakota
Many people think of South Dakota as a completely sparse state, but that couldn’t be further from the truth thanks to the Badlands and the Black Hills. Start your road trip in Sioux Falls, the state’s biggest city, where you can spend the day exploring waterfalls, canyons and even building ruins in Falls Park.
Traveling west, you’ll spend a few hours driving through mostly flat farmland, before the landscape becomes more diverse. First, you’ll hit the Badlands, known for their sparse, geologic landscape sprinkled with multi-colored peaks and stunning remnants of volcanic activity. The scenic byway along SD 240 lasts 40 miles, winding through colorful, wild-west scenery, before reaching Rapid City and then on to the 1.2-million acre Black Hills region near the border of Colorado. Here, you’ll be among a largely mountainous and wooden landscape that resembles something you’d see in a West Coast state. Spend the day exploring the park, and visit Mount Rushmore or the even more staggering, Crazy Horse Memorial.
Duluth to Grand Marais
One of the most stunning road trips in the Midwest is along the North Shore, Minnesota, and is designated as a National Scenic Byway. Starting in Duluth, take Highway 61 north along Lake Superior toward the Canadian border. This route provides sights and scenery you won’t find elsewhere in the Midwest with the vast lake as your backdrop. From its imposing shoreline, pine-filled forests, lake-side stops and beyond, there is something for everyone. Bring the kayaks or paddleboards along, plan a day or extended hike in the remote wilderness or bike through the rugged terrain along miles of free public trails -- it’s any outdoor enthusiast’s dream route.
The North Shore is also the perfect place to take an affordable road trip with an RV in tow. Thanks to the several state and national parks and the adjacent Superior National Forest within close proximity of the route, there are tons of free camping opportunities to pull over and claim your own personal home away from home.
The Best Family Road Trips in the Midwest
The Midwest is home to plenty of family-friendly destinations, with activities for everyone, no matter if they are interested in the great outdoors, exploring new cities, or learning some fascinating local history.
If you’re searching for a road trip in the Midwest that caters to families, take a look at one of these options.
Sioux City to Rock Island
Take a road trip across Iowa’s heartland, starting in the Northwest corner in Sioux City, Iowa and ending in Rock Island, Illinois. Located at the navigational head of the Missouri River, Sioux City is a town rich in history, and its many cultural points of significance like Sioux City Museum, Art Center and the National Landmark known as Sergeant Floyd Monument, provide affordable and educational family entertainment.
You can head east via I-90 through Des Moines or Highway 20 through Dubuque. Des Moines has a small-town feel with big-city amenities, while Dubuque is reminiscent of a mid-sized river town. For those traveling through Dubuque, make a stop at the Field of Dreams movie site in Dyersville. A perfect destination for any sports-loving family, you and the little ones can celebrate the timelessness of America’s favorite pastime by playing a pick-up game of baseball, snapping Instagram pictures in the cornfield or touring the on-site history center.
Keep traveling southeast and you’ll end up at the home to one of the largest government arsenals in America, Rock Island. Here, there is plenty to see for those interested in our country’s history. Take a walk across the other river that borders Iowa -- the Mississippi -- via the impressive Centennial Bridge and spend time touring the many arsenal installments once you arrive on the grounds.
Ashland to the Wisconsin Dells
Ashland, Wisconsin provides unmatched access to Lake Superior, where you’ll start your journey. Start driving south via Highway 112, and enjoy an afternoon picnic in Copper Falls State Park, where you can find a spot to enjoy the day sight-seeing among ancient lava flows, deep gorges and spectacular waterfalls.
Your next stop could be anywhere within the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, to be honest. However, Minocqua stands out above the rest when it comes to family-friendly road trips. Whether you love fishing, water sports or just lounging by the beach, this small tourist-friendly town is a lake-lover’s dream. We recommend checking out waterski team, the Min-Aqua Bats’ schedule to catch some true, free, summer-time entertainment.
You can then head straight south via I-39 toward the end destination. Or, hook a left on Highway 29 toward Green Bay, just an hour or so out of the way in the south east direction. Take your little ones on a tour of Lambeau Field, where they can indulge their love of sports, and afterward walk along the shore of Lake Michigan for the perfect family photo op.
Your end destination will be a thrilling one for any road-tripping children, as the Wisconsin Dells is home to hundreds of theme parks, water parks and entertainment centers. Take a look at this list of the best theme parks in the Wisconsin Dells to help narrow down your choices -- there are a lot of them!
Meramec to Indiana Dunes National Park
No matter which way you go, you’re in for a historic, scenic family road trip with this route. Meramac, Missouri is home to the temporary hide out of one of the Wild West’s most famous outlaws, Jesse James. Kids will enjoy the tours of the caverns and caves that exist along the underground river.
Driving north east, you’ll find several urban areas to enjoy across three states: St. Louis, Missouri; Champaign, Illinois; and Gary, Indiana. There’s plenty of sights to see in each unique city, such as the incredible St. Louis Gateway Arch, the largest college town in the Illini State and Michael Jackson’s boyhood home in Gary.
Finally, you’ll come upon the remarkable Indiana Sand Dunes. This area near the tip of Lake Michigan offers 15 miles of giant sandy dunes and beaches against the clear blue waters of the Great Lake. From swimming and sunbathing to horseback riding and beyond, it’s a great place to unwind after a long drive in the car.
Best Midwest Road Trips for Couples
Searching for the best little getaway for you and your significant other? There are plenty of options for lover’s getaways in the Midwest. Take a look.
Cincinnati to Athens
Spend time wining and dining your lover in downtown Cincinnati, followed up with a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city or a stroll through Fountain Square. After you’ve spent a night or two here, it’s time to officially start your romantic road trip.
Your end destination is less than three hours away at Athens, Ohio, where you and your significant other can relax in solace at Bodhi Tree Guest House & Studio, a zen retreat, where guests are encouraged to unplug from everyday life. Enjoy yoga classes, Thai massages, float tanks or just wander through the garden-filled natural surroundings.
Kansas City to Lake of the Ozarks
Kansas City is home to world-renowned barbecue restaurants, miles of parks to stroll and a swinging music scene, making it the perfect location to start a fun, romantic road trip with your better half. Spend date night chowing down on smoked meats at the famous Joe’s Barbecue, go dancing at old-school jazz club Green Lady Lounge and retire together at one of the many affordable hotels downtown.
When you’re ready to hit the trail, take I-49 to Highway 7, where Lake of the Ozarks lays just two and a half hours southwest. Contrast the big-city romance with the gorgeous natural scenery at Lake of the Ozarks, and you and your partner are in for a romantic retreat. A number of luxury spa and resorts dot the massive lake, or just spend quality time relaxing on the beach with one another.
Scenic Midwest Road trips
The Midwest is home to a wide range of scenery unlike any other in the United States. Check out these road trips to see something you won’t soon forget.
Route 66: Chicago to St. Louis
This scenic road trip is part of the legendary “Route 66”, one of the original highways in the country. Starting in Chicago, you can spend as much time here as you’d like, taking in the extensive urban scenery at locations like“The Bean” in Millennium Park or gaze out among the Windy City for miles atop a skyscraper like the John Hancock Building.
After you’re tired of the big city hustle, start your road trip toward St. Louis, where a number of gorgeous sights lay along I-55. Make your first short stop at Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie for the chance to see herds of bison in the country’s first designated national tallgrass prairie. Continue your drive toward the capital of Springfield and rest up with an overnight stay in the town where Abraham Lincoln grew up. Give yourself plenty of time to tour the many sites associated with the president the next day.
Once you reach St. Louis, you can spend a few days exploring downtown, where Busch Stadium, Gateway Park and the Arch are located, as well as the historic Old Courthouse where the Dread Scott case was presided over. And don’t forget to dine on some authentic local barbecue. After you’ve explored St. Louis, you can turn back, or continue onward; Route 66 stretches all the way to Los Angeles!
Fargo to Medora
One of the classic Midwestern road trips is straight through North Dakota, from Fargo to Medora. Bordering Minnesota is the largest city in the state, Fargo, known for its vibrant downtown, thriving cultural and arts scene and unique eating establishments. Experience the animal kingdom within the bustling city center with a visit to Red River Zoo, which specializes in rare cold-climate species.
Driving east along I-94, your next stop will whisk you away to the days of the Wild West: Jamestown. Head through the old-timey Frontier Village leading to the World’s Largest Buffalo Statue and National Buffalo Museum (all of which are free), or Fort Seward on the northwest side of town which accurately replicates the era of the late 1800s. And don’t forget to try the locally famous cuisine, Knoephla (pronounced like neff-lah), a regional dumpling style soup, available at many area restaurants.
Medora, on the west side of North Dakota, is your last stop on this road trip and will provide some of the best scenery on the trip at Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Once home to the 26th president himself, the park is known for its stunningly colorful Painted Canyon, as well as the 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive, which winds past numerous overlooks.
St. Paul to the Apostle Islands
Starting in Minnesota’s capital, St. Paul, enjoy the amenities of the Twin Cities before heading north toward the Apostle Islands in Wisconsin. Along the way, spend the afternoon in Stillwater, taking in the scenery of the vast St. Croix Valley, visiting the many boutique shops or dining at charming restaurants. Before you hit the Apostles, you’ll arrive in Bayfield. Here, you can stay at a hotel that accommodated JFK, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many award-winning restaurants, before boarding the vehicle ferry to Madeline Island.
On the island, visit Big Bay Town Park for a swim in Lake Superior, or grab a drink at the eclectic Tom’s Burned Down Cafe. The other Apostle Islands can be accessed by boat, and make for a great adventure -- the sea caves are the most popular natural attraction and can be accessed via kayak ride or charter.
The Best Midwest Roadtrips for Fall Foliage
The Midwest is ripe with leaf-peeping opportunities each autumn. For a fall-themed road trip, check out the following options.
Ozark National Forest to Hot Springs
Escape to the beautiful colors along this autumn-friendly road trip, starting in Ozark National Forest in Arkansas, where the vast woodland’s peak color-changing timeframe is the last week of October through the first week of November.
Your destination, Hot Springs, Arkansas, will provide another opportunity to see leaves among a vast natural surrounding. And, as the name implies, the hot springs are the perfect way to warm up on a chilly autumn day. Once your skin is pruney enough, tour Bathhouse Row, where eight bathhouses from the 19th and 20th centuries still stand.
via Nan Fry on Flickr
Parke County to Yellowwood State Forest
Here is a classic fall road trip for you. From Parke County, Indiana to Brown County State Park Forest, Indiana, you’re sure to see brilliant auburns, bright yellows, glimmering oranges, fading greens and other gorgeous fall hues. All while driving your way through natural, winding wilderness, and of course, the famous covered bridges of the area. Otherwise known as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World”, the county contains 31 historic bridges, the majority of which were built in the 19th century and still in use.
On your drive southwest, you’ll pass through some of the most beautiful natural areas in the state, like Cataract Falls State Park, Morgan-Monroe State Forest, Yellowwood State Park, and finally end up at Brown County State Park, the largest natural recreation area in Indiana.
Hit the Road in Style and Comfort
No matter what you’re looking for on a road trip, the Midwest has many budget-friendly routes, full of diverse scenery, family-friendly fun, couple’s romance, seasonal beauty and beyond.
If you want to add to the road trip experience, consider investing in a teardrop trailer. These haulable homes come at a price that’s more affordable than larger campers and RVs, while providing upgraded comfort compared to tents and pop-ups. Plus you can stay off the beaten path in areas you might not otherwise get to explore during a road trip with hotel accommodations.
Vistabule specializes in building safe, comfortable and custom teardrop trailers that are as easy to tow as they are stylish. They make a great addition to any future road trip, giving you the freedom to travel where you want while never leaving behind the many comforts of home.
Download the pricing worksheet below or get in touch with our team today to learn more.