When life starts to feel like an endless cycle of sleep, eat, work, repeat, I know that I’m in desperate need of a break and a reset. Work is hectic, my sleep schedule is a mess, and even figuring out what to eat for dinner feels like too much. That’s when a quick weekend trip can work wonders. And if you live in the Midwest, you don’t have to hop on a plane or spend a fortune to recharge. As a Midwest resident myself, I can vouch that this region is packed with underrated gems within a few hours’ drive, whether you’re looking for a peaceful nature escape, a food-filled city adventure, or just a change of scenery for a couple of days.
From the rocky shores of Lake Superior to the hills of southern Ohio, the Midwest is full of cozy towns, surprisingly cool cities, and everything in between. You can catch live music, hike to scenic overlooks, or stroll through a quiet downtown with a cup of coffee in hand. The best part? Most of these spots are budget-friendly and perfect for a spontaneous weekend trip. So, if you’re itching to pack an overnight bag and hit the road, I’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best Midwest destinations to check out for your next weekend escape.
1. Galena, Illinois
If you’re craving a slow, small-town vibe to reset and relax, visit the historic city of Galena, Illinois, which is known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle of work life and is super affordable, no matter what’s on your itinerary. You can stroll down Main Street, check out cute local boutiques, and tour the Ulysses S. Grant Home for a bit of history. Enjoy a relaxing scenic river cruise or tram tour during the day, then unwind at a cozy spot like Galena Cellars at night. If you’re craving a bit of adventure, head to Chestnut Mountain for zip-lining or scenic chairlift rides.
Where to stay: Hotel Galena (from $116 a night), Irish Cottage Inn & Suites (from $119)
2. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
If you’re itching for a lake vacation, consider a trip to the resort town of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. The scenic views offer a fantastic way to clear your head and disconnect. Many of the best things to do in Lake Geneva are completely free since you’ll want to spend plenty of time just enjoying the local beauty. Walk the Lake Geneva Shore Path with a coffee in hand, or head to the beach and have lunch lakeside. You could even rent a boat or paddleboard on the lake (the water is especially stunning during sunset). Reserve plenty of time to explore the downtown shops and get your sugar fix at one of the many chocolate shops. For a little local history, explore the Geneva Lake Museum, or sign up for the U.S. Mailboat Tour and watch as “mail jumpers” leap from the moving boat to deliver mail to lakeside homes.
Where to stay: The Abbey Resort (from $110 a night), Harbor Shores (from $161)
3. Columbus, Ohio
If you’re looking for more of a city vibe for your Midwest getaway, head to Columbus, Ohio, for a mix of art, good food, and unique neighborhoods. Walk around the trendy Short North Arts District for an array of galleries, murals, and boutique shops that make the city feel a little smaller. Don’t forget about the Columbus Museum of Art and the COSI science museum, which are perfect for a little adult field trip. If you’re looking for a little historic charm, walk the brick-lined streets of German Village and browse The Book Loft (a bookstore that stretches a city block long and boasts 32 rooms of books!). For some entertainment to end the night, catch a show at the Ohio Theatre or live music at Natalie’s.
Where to stay: Hotel Leveque (from $169 a night), The Junto (from $180)
4. Duluth, Minnesota
For some fresh air, check out the port city of Duluth, Minnesota, located right on Lake Superior. Near Canal Park and the landmark Aerial Lift Bridge, there’s plenty of exploring to do. Walk down the pier to the century-old lighthouse at the end, and pop into the free-to-enter Lake Superior Maritime Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s history. Explore the shops around Canal Park, then pop into a restaurant like Canal Park Brewing Co. for a meal with gorgeous lake views. Then, if you feel like reminiscing in a little childhood nostalgia, check out the Great Lakes Aquarium for the ultimate field trip vibes. Or, for something more outdoorsy, set time aside to hike and picnic at Gooseberry Falls, which is just a short drive away along the North Shore.
Where to stay: Cotton Mansion (from $127 a night), Beacon Pointe on Lake Superior (from $172)
5. Traverse City, Michigan
Located along the coast of Lake Michigan, Traverse City has it all: sandy beaches, delicious farm-to-table dining, top-notch wineries, and a quaint downtown area. It’s perfect for travelers looking for adventure and relaxation all in one spot. Known as the cherry capital of the world, this Midwestern getaway also boasts every kind of cherry goodie you can imagine. Stop by Grand Traverse Pie Company for a slice of their tart cherry pie, or head to Moomers Homemade Ice Cream for a cherry-infused scoop. If you’re itching for some sand in between your toes, it’s worth the drive out to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore—the scenery will take your breath away.
Where to stay: Cherry Tree Inn & Suites (from $190 a night), The Baywatch Resort (from $206)
6. Decorah, Iowa
For a Midwest weekend trip with peak small-town vibes, add Decorah, Iowa, to your list. With charming downtown shops, scenic trails, and historic sites, this small Norwegian town might be the hidden gem you’ve been looking for. Start your day with a hike at Dunning’s Spring Park to see the stunning waterfall, and do some kayaking or fishing on the Upper Iowa River, which flows directly through town. The Vesterheim Norwegian-American Museum is also worth a visit if you like history and folk art. For dinner, head just outside of Decorah to Luna Valley Farm for wood-fired pizzas made with ingredients grown right on the property. Or, if you’re into craft beer, end the day at Toppling Goliath Brewery with some cold beers and classic pub food.
Where to stay: Bluffside Gardens (from $120 a night), Hotel Winneshiek (from $159)
7. Hocking Hills, Ohio
Located in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Hocking Hills, Ohio, is just the kind of nature getaway you need to reset and unplug from the world. Life feels a lot simpler when your days are spent surrounded by cascading waterfalls, lush forests, and stunning rock formations. Plus, this Midwest vacation destination is super budget-friendly because appreciating nature doesn’t cost you a thing. Check into a cabin and channel all the summer camp vibes with dinners on the grill and nights spent toasting s’mores around a fire. During the day, get your steps in while hiking to Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, where the payoff is dramatic waterfalls with plenty of scenic forest views and rugged sandstone formations along the way.
Where to stay: Postcard Cabins (from $129 a night), The Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls (from $229)
8. Kansas City, Missouri
If jazz music and mouth-watering BBQ sounds like a dream come true, head to Kansas City, Missouri, for your next weekend adventure. This bustling town offers plenty to see and do without the steep prices found in bigger cities. Admire world-class art exhibitions at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art (which is free to enter!), or stroll around Country Club Plaza, where you’ll find gorgeous fountains, Spanish-style architecture, and plenty of shops to browse. In the evenings, head to 18th & Vine, KC’s buzzing jazz district, for some live sets and great vibes. And for the best BBQ in town, you can’t go wrong with Joe’s or Arthur Bryant’s.
Where to stay: Truitt Hotel (from $128 a night), The Fontaine (from $138)
9. Holland, Michigan
Like the town’s name might suggest, Holland, Michigan, is like a little slice of the Netherlands dropped into the Midwest. If you’re lucky enough to visit during the spring, you’ll get to experience the tulip festival, during which the city explodes with millions of vibrant blooms. Year-round, Holland boasts an adorable downtown area lined with charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés, all mixed with plenty of Dutch charm. It’s not a trip to Holland without visiting the 250-year-old Dutch windmill, located at Windmill Island Gardens, and the beach at Holland State Park, where you can spread out on the sand and snap a pic of the iconic Big Red Lighthouse. The best part? Holland is less than three hours away from cities like Chicago and Detroit, so it’s perfect for a short weekend getaway.
Where to stay: Lake Ranch Resort (from $229 a night), The Beach House at Lake Street (from $290)
10. Put-In-Bay, Ohio
Island vibes… in Ohio? Yeah, you read that right. Located on South Bass Island in Lake Erie, Put-in-Bay offers all the same carefree vacation energy as more tropical locales. In fact, you might just forget you’re still in the Midwest. After taking the ferry to the island, rent bikes or a golf cart to get around (no cars necessary). The island is full of waterfront restaurants, open-air bars, live music, and a lively nightlife scene to keep you entertained. Spend your days lazing on the beach and shopping around downtown, or rent a kayak or paddleboard for a little more adventure.
Where to stay: Commodore Resort (from $112 a night), Put-In-Bay Resort Hotel (from $141)
Jenna Piotrowicz, Editorial Assistant
Jenna began working as an Editorial Assistant for The Everygirl in 2024. With her eye for detail, she assists the team with content creation, sourcing products and images, and works behind the scenes to support The Everygirl in uploading and updating content.
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