The Weekend Getaways Midwest is more than just a place to find the famous Green Bay Packers and Chicago Bears stadiums. If you look past the snow and the tundra that this area is known for, you will find some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. From winding rivers to lush forests, there are plenty of hidden gems throughout this region.
If you want an escape from your everyday life, read on to discover some of the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. From small towns with prominent personalities to hotels perched above stunning waterfalls, there are options for every type of traveler in the Midwest. Pick your favorite spot from this list and book your trip today.

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago is among the best getaways you could ever visit in the Midwest. You can explore the city via train, air travel or by car. What amazes most visitors is that you will find the destination fascinating even during winter.

If you plan to spend a few days, you could begin your itinerary by touring the Willis Tower and the Navy Pier. Here you are sure to enjoy breathtaking views of Chicago. If you love exploring great heights, explore the Ledge and stand on the glass balcony. The Ledge is on the 103rd floor; you can see almost every part of the city.
Visit the Chicago or Cadillac Palace Theatre for sensational performances. You can check out the Chicago History Museum or Field Museum if you love history.

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

For a bewildering weekend like no other, explore the Mackinac Island found on Lake Huron in Michigan. The island is accessible via a ferry and has many fantastic things to do over the weekend. Understand that cars are not allowed on the island. The standard and acceptable modes of transport are carriages, horses, bicycles, or foot.

Its scenery is magnificent, from the perfectly-manicured hedges and gardens to the signature lilacs that bloom on the island every June. You could begin your itinerary in the historic downtown and experience spectacular varieties of eateries and shops. Rent a bicycle to tour the town center and discover the historic homes. You could also decide to hop into a horse-drawn carriage.
Play golf or treat yourself to the spa for a relaxing afternoon. End your day by marveling at the golden sunset seated in a rocking chair in the stunning Grand Hotel. The hotel is located on a hilltop offering guests magnificent views.
Experience kayaking, take a panoramic boat ride on the lake, or explore Fort Mackinac for the best weekend getaways in the Midwest.

3. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills also offers visitors breathtaking sceneries and activities to marvel at. The area has inns, and cabins sprinkled all over the woods in southern Ohio. Hocking Hills is a stunning natural retreat for anyone looking for a quiet weekend getaway. Hike the Hocking Hills State Park around Logan. The park covers over 2,300 acres of lush forestland.

Trails found around this region are pretty casual, just as you would like your ideal weekend destination. Explore the Old Man’s Cave or traverse via the Ash Cave. You could also explore the Conkle’s Hollow gorges and experience unique wildlife, waterfalls, and rock formations. There are other exciting activities you can do here, such as swimming, fishing, and canoeing. If you love ziplining, this is the place to be for an adrenaline rush.

4. Branson, Missouri

Branson is widely known as the capital of live entertainment in the country. It entails various performance venues, especially on the main strip. From outstanding theme parks and museums to various outdoor recreations, there is something for everyone here. Some alluring theme parks include Shepherd’s Adventure Park, Silver Dollar City, and The Branson Coaster.

You can also explore the various museums in Branson, such as Veterans Memorial Museum and the TITANIC Museum Attraction. Other outdoor attractions you can marvel at include Track Family Fun Park and Promised Land Zoo, where you can engage in go-karting or play laser tag. Tour the underground Talking Rocks Cavern or engage in exciting water sports at Moonshine Beach.

5. Brown County, Indiana

Brown county lies just one hour from Indianapolis to the south and is anchored by Nashville. This bewildering county is called the “Art Colony of the Midwest.” Brown county is known for fine craft studios, arts, and galleries, making it among the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. There are flea and antique markets where visitors can purchase or window shop.

Explore the T.C. Steele State Historic Site to experience the region’s artistic and cultural heritage. Tour Nashville downtown to explore the marvelous art galleries and restaurants. Some remarkable attractions in the county include Brown County, State Park. Here you can engage in various outdoor activities.
You could camp overnight, watch birds, and hike in the Yellowwood State Forests. Other museums you can check out include Pioneer Museum and Brown County Historical.

6. Sleeping Bear Dunes, Michigan

Among the best weekend getaways in the Midwest is the sleeping bear dunes. The National Lakeshore will give you memorable memories with family or with friends. Visitors spend an entire weekend on the beach playing with the dunes. The scenery of the towering dunes makes all the difference in Michigan.

You could spend an entire day just driving around to enjoy panoramic views. Take on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive that traverses along the National Lakeshore. The majestic route is approximately 7.4 miles, with astounding scenery. Make sure you also check out the Dune Overlook and the Picnic Mountain.
If you are a water lover, you will enjoy this area even more. With over 25 magnificent inland lakes on the site, you can kayak, canoe, bird-watch, and even fish here. Consider touring Little Glen and Big Lakes for boating activities. You could also explore the Dune Climb, which is about 3.5 miles. Engage in climbing and descending dunes as you get closer to Lake Michigan. Carry more water for this itinerary and sunscreen.

7. French Lick, Indiana

French Lick has grown to be a favorite destination for romantic getaways and exquisite resorts. It contributes to the best weekend getaways in the Midwest, especially for golfers, families, and lovers. French Lick is famous for its hot springs, which explains the many golf courses and spas.

Get pampered with your lover at top resorts and spas in French Lick, such as French Lick West Baden. Here you can receive various services, including facials and massages with elegant services. If you are a golfer, you can marvel at the various private golf courses, such as the French Lick Resort.
Tour the French lick West Baden Museum to understand the area’s history. You could also explore the French Lick Scenic Railway and enjoy picturesque rides across the region. Check-in at the Indiana Railway Museum to understand the railroad history.

8. Northwoods, Wisconsin

Northwoods is a fun weekend getaway in the Midwest. Book a stay in Cable or Hayward towns to be near the attractions. Winter outdoor enthusiasts will have an easy time here. You can spend the entire day skiing on the groomed trail. This groomed trail hosts the American Birkebeiner ski marathon yearly. You will come across many tracks to check out as you ski down the slopes.

You could also try out the snowmobile trails as they connect diverse towns. Begin your itinerary in Hayward and visit the other cities in a snowmobile for dinner and lunch. Northwoods offers visitors lush scenery, so check out viewpoints on the snowmobile. Marvel at the fat bike trails, too, for more fun on the snow and ice.

9. Madison County, Iowa

Madison county offers the best weekend getaways in the Midwest. The county became famous thanks to the love story and movie, The Bridges of Madison County. For scenic drives and serenity, marvel at the Covered Bridge Capital of Iowa. Grab your map at the Madison County Welcome Center and plot how you will explore the bridges.

Even though there are guided tours to explore Madison County, you can still do it on your own and plan a spellbinding itinerary. You could also take the Madison County Scenic Byway for panoramic views of the area. The 82 miles long route will offer scenic backroads for a quiet and fun weekend. Make time to uncover the Roundhouse in Madison County and learn. If you love parks, there are lots of parks to explore here. Some include Sweetbriar Park, Creekwood Park, and Delphi Falls Park.

10. Cincinnati, Ohio

A weekend in Cincinnati could be the best decision you ever made. The city has several small districts and attractions sprinkled all over. You could book a stay along the riverfront downtown. You can check out the Cincinnati Museum Center on the first day of the weekend. The museum is in Union Terminal, where you can uncover other thrilling museums.

Check out the Museum of Natural History & Science and the Cincinnati Museum. Your next stop could be the Duke Energy Children’s Museum. Find accommodation for bed and breakfast at the Over-the-Rhine neighborhoods or Cincinnati’s Mount Adams. It has several small shops and eateries where you can enjoy a quick snack.
Couples can tour Findlay Market and engage in various community festivals. If you love arts, explore the different magnificent art galleries located in the arts district. You could also decide to venture into the historic neighborhoods for alluring architecture.
End your weekend in Cincinnati by enjoying a Cincinnati Reds baseball game. End the game night with a tasty dinner at the Skyline Chili.

11. Marquette, Michigan

Head to Marquette in Michigan for the perfect weekend getaway with friends or your significant other, especially during fall. Found in the Upper Peninsula, this magical place orchestrates hundreds of miles of magnificent forests that bring out all the magic during fall. Tour the northern part of Marquette for spectacular views and sceneries in the dense forests with a Lake Superior backdrop.

You could select a few locations to check out during the weekend or enjoy scenic drives with no particular destination. Check out the Mt. Marquette Scenic Overlook for panoramic views, as the overlook is accessible by car. You could also check out the Sugarloaf Mountain Natural Area and explore the lush trails.

12. Detroit, Michigan

A Detroit weekend getaway may be fun and affordable for most visitors. This motor city has thrilling energy; you can explore everything from the city scene to parks, museums, and neighborhoods. Start by checking out the Eastern Market for fresh food and vendors. Interact with them and understand the types of food they grow here.

Explore the diverse museums here that tell the tales of Detroit. Such may include the Automotive Hall of Fame, where you will discover unique automobiles and other means of transportation. Check out the Henry Ford Museum and the Detroit Historical Museum. You could also uncover the General Motors Heritage Center in Detroit.
Do not leave without exploring the lush parks in Detroit, including Belle Isle Park and Comerica Park.

13. Indianapolis, Indiana

Indianapolis offers the best weekend getaways in the Midwest if you are looking for an action-packed weekend. Being the state capital, you will indeed find something to amuse you. Even though the city is famous for the Indianapolis 500, there are other fun and exciting activities you can discover here.

You could check in at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis. It is the largest kids’ museum in the country and worldwide. You will easily consume an entire day with lots of activities to marvel at here. Discover the Indiana State Museum and Indianapolis Zoo and marvel at the gorgeous White River State Park.
Indianapolis has lots of dazzling hotels offering visitors unique experiences. Book your stay at the Crowne Plaza Indianapolis and enjoy a cozy night in the Pullman train car found in Union Station. Couples can enjoy a show on a date night at The Cabaret, or they could book a sensational spa experience at Woodhouse or Conrad Spa.

Final Thoughts

For the best weekend getaway in the Midwest, visit any of these areas and explore what the Midwest offers. Marvel at the diverse eateries, shopping centers, parks, and museums around this area.

FAQs

What are the romantic getaways in Midwest winter?

Some romantic getaways in Midwest during winter include The American Club, Galena, French Lick Resort Casino, Big Cedar Lodge, Grand Hotel, and the Canoe Bay.

What are the unique getaways in Ohio?

They include Put-in-Bay, Hocking Hills State Park, Gervasi Vineyard, Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls, and the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.

Are there cheap weekend getaways in Midwest?

Yes, there are cheap weekend getaways in the Midwest; they include Des Moines, Oak Park, Michigan City, Naperville, Sandusky, Omaha, and Duluth.