Hocking Hills State Park Camping Ohio. ), slip into an empty and secluded spring, and let the water do the work while you work up your courage to pop the question. Ms Pub is always a favorite. Even if you dont care a lick about history, its just super cool to see IRL. Go in the summer or early autumn, when you can walk along the pier or the picture-perfect bridges without having to search in 20 different parka pockets to find the ring. Keeper of the Plains sculpture in Wichita, Kansas, Bridge from Grant Park to downtown, overlooking the Galena River. The Midwest Museum of American Art is right across the street from the recently restored historic Hotel Elkhart, she says, so you can walk to the museum from the hotel. Beautiful murals decorate the town, too. Explore the hotels near Voyageurs National Park. Grand Rapids, Michigan. As the owners like to say, its a small-town shop with big-city perks, she says. Amongst all the wonderful small towns of Door County, Egg Harbor earns a distinction with artistic egg displays all over town, One Barrel Brewing brewery, and local peninsula apple and cherry deliciousness at Woods Orchard Market, Sherman says. (Photo by @pupkinapproved), Michigans little secret, Mackinacs a mostly automobile-free vacation community on Lake Michigan thats remained as pretty as a postcard since its late 19th century heyday as a holiday spot for the wealthy. Tell us in the comments below! Stevenson enjoyed going up to the bluff to explore Horseshoe Mound preserve for expansive views of the Mississippi River and the valleys below. The best way to peep all this geological gorgeousness? You'll also find dunes and a must-see lighthouse. There's much fun to be had in this Midwestern city, too. Located on the Des Moines River in central Iowa, this family-friendly destination combines history and art. To observe the natural beauty of the cranes in another way, visit the Stuhr Museum in Grand Island. ), its one of four census-designated regions of the United States and covers the northern central part of the country. You cant go wrong in this gorgeous, historic town, but avoid the humidity of deep summer. Finally, the George Washington Carver National Monument honors the American scientist, botanist, educator, and inventor. Going in winter, of course, is going to be a bear. Did you know that Madison County has the largest collection of covered bridges anywhere in the western half of the Mississippi Valley? While the name sounds strange, this is one of the most unique spots in the Midwest and it's clean, updated, has affordable lodging and is overall one of the best spots in the state for visitors. Representing one of the most populated metropolitan regions in the Midwest. At Buffalo Bill State Historical Park, explore Scouts Rest Ranch, the second empire-style mansion the famed Pony Express rider, Army scout, and buffalo hunter-turned-showman built during the heyday of his Wild West show. Dont go in when its snowbound, which will turn the moderately difficult hike into a more challenging one. Additionally, downtown Excelsior Springs boasts beautiful boutiques, cafes, pubs, and lots of art look for the large murals depicting scenes from the towns past on several historic buildings. Pack up the tent (or RV) and camp in these well-appointed parks. From North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio - more than 68 million people call the Midwest home. Patee House Museum & the Jesse James Home showcases the two things St. Joseph is famous for: the Pony Express headquarters and the place where outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed. While Pierre is always fun to visit, Oahe Days Arts & Music Festival each June in Steamboat Park adds extra flair to the city, Yonkey tells us. The beach itself is beautiful, but its the dramatic 235 foot sea-stack known as Haystack Rock that really makes this an ideal proposal spot. Fun fact: Wisconsin Dells boasts more family-friendly water parks per capita than anywhere else in the country. (Photo by @forwardappareico), Jackson Hole and Yellowstone are obvious choices in the Cowboy State, but take the 40-minute drive outside Jackson Hole to the brilliantly clear waters of Phelps Lake. Ames, Iowa EQRoy/Shutterstock. Cant find the words to tell your partner how you want to spend the rest of your life with her? Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest, Illinois If you live in the capital or Baltimore, the Sanctuary is a great change of scenery for the big day. The Midwest, aptly nicknamed "America's Heartland", is home to thousands of captivating attractions. (Photo by @luvmyssi). The Indy 500 is also the largest single-day sporting event globally. (Photo by @thisisalabama), Whether you still think of it as Mount McKinley or its newly restored name, Denali, the continents tallest peak is an insurmountable (get it?) Wilson, Kansas is home to the largest hand-painted Czech Egg in the world. If you go between March and June, it wont be too crowded and the flowers will be in bloom. On that eponymous bluff looking out over a breathtaking view of the Tennessee River hundreds of feet below, this stately lodge in northeast Alabama, a little over an hour due east of Huntsville, is well-known in the Cotton State for both starting and sealing blissfully romantic unions. The Little Known Cabin In Missouri Thatll Be Your New Favorite Destination, Stay Overnight In This Breathtaking Bungalow Just Steps From The Lake In Missouri, We Bet You Didnt Know There Was A Miniature Royal Gorge In Missouri, The Missouri Cheese Caves That Once Held 1.4 Billion Pounds Of Cheese Is A Truly Fascinating Story, Christmas In These 10 Missouri Towns Looks Like Something From A Hallmark Movie, This Missouri Balloon Ride Will Give You The Absolute Best View Of The Beautiful Ozarks, 14 Epic Outdoorsy Things In Missouri Anyone Can Do, Everyone Should Take This Spectacular Holiday Trail Of Lights In Missouri This Season, Branson Convention and Visitors Bureau/Flickr.com. The population of the city of Chicago is around 2.7 million, while its metropolitan area boasts nearly 10 million residents. While in the area, Morgensen suggests heading to The Old Market for shopping, drinks, and dining. Although history buffs will enjoy exploring a slice of Old West frontier life at the Old Cowtown Museum, theres a decidedly hipster vibe in Wichita as well, says Robbins. A fun stop all around!. Cookware, gourmet foods, wine, and dining wares are expertly displayed in the shops meandering alcoves. The Farm at Walnut Creek is a working farm but also home to enough exotic animals (giraffes, camels, kangaroos) to make it special even for a farm gal. Instead, walk along uncrowded Seattles Alki Beach, where you can gaze at the downtown Seattle skyline hand in hand on the black-sand beach, then walk up to the street and over a block or two for why pretend? Lets start by crossing off the obvious pics, like anything involving Waikiki or, in fact, any beach. The best time to visit Wichita is spring, summer, and fall, Robbins advises, which are the most pleasant times to be outdoors., On the Prairie Trail Scenic Byway in Kansas lies Wilson, a small prairie town with a big egg. (Photo by @seshotts), This southwest Colorado town is riddled with romantic hot springs against the backdrop of the San Juan Mountains and national forest, so hide the ring box in under your towel (but dont lose it! (Photo by @abcnews), Long considered one of the most romantic establishments in the Garden State, Cape Mays Peter Shields looks out on the water, is steps from the beach, and yet offers fine dining in a Victorian mansion. Hocking Hills in the backcountry of Ohio has stunning scenery, like gorgeous Cedar Falls and sprawling parks, to explore. (Photo by @thedanboulianne), No, not Mardi Gras or Bourbon Street you might as well propose at a frat house party, if thats what you have in mind. Next, head to Northleaf Winery for a wine and chocolate pairing, instructs Pittman. 01 of 06 Chicago joe daniel price / Getty Images The biggest city in the Midwestern United States and the third most populous city in the nation is Chicago. (Photo by @thelashe), You dont have to be a Hoosier or even a basketball or football fan to find a worthy Indiana location in which to slip in a marriage proposal. Turkey Run State Park Campground Indiana. Red Rooster is another unique shop with dozens of artisans represented in a 150-year-old renovated mill. You may have heard of Joplin because of the devastating tornado that struck the southwestern Missouri town in 2011. Thank you! (Photo by @bentufts), Leave Boston Common, Faneuil Hall and the harbor for the guys wearing tricorn hats, and Fenway for the Sox fanatics. Have a shot, agree to get hitched, follow with another shot (probably on the house). (Photo by @beaversbendluxurycabinrentals), Cannon Beach is a 9-mile stretch on the northern Oregon coast, about a 90-minute drive from Portland. Catch baseballs finest at the College World Series in June. Though the Kings home is your go-to if youre going for that late-60s living-room vibe, the true musical heart of the state is the Grand Ole Opry, which is a no-brainer pilgrimage-slash-proposal site for a country-music-lovin couple. A trip to the beautiful town of Muscatine is in order according to Cindy Ladage. The Grand Basin in Forest Park offers unforgettable views of Art Hill and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Youre going for coffee. This small town north of Kansas City, Missouri, is one of Kathleen Walls picks for best Midwestern towns to visit in 2023. Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma) From Kylie of Between England and Iowa. Any time of year, music enthusiasts may book the Rock & Roll Suite at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown for an on-theme lodging pick. You can always drive back to Jackson Hole after to celebrate afterward with a nice (expensive) dinner, but hiking Phelps Lake itself is free. (Photo by @allwilderness), Everyone heads to the controversial Skywalk these days, but those people would propose at the fake Eiffel Tower in Vegas and say it counted as going to Paris. If you havent been to this sprawling 218,055-acre, year-round playground of outdoor adventure, its high time you rectify that. Like its borderline unfair that one place could possibly pack that many spectacular sights into a 3,776-acre area. You wont be disturbed by coeds lifting their shirts in this wacky, fun museum one of Americas favorite local festivals. The National Audubon Society's Rowe Sanctuary offers another excellent viewing option, with (free) daily guided tours at sunrise and sunset. Nightlife here ranges from honky tonk to big bands, but its all casual and relaxed. Loaded with history and located just outside of Kansas City, Excelsior Springs, Missouri, is an adorable Midwest town to place on your travel list this year according to Erika Ebsworth-Goold. There are plenty of other spots to explore for historical interest in the town and nearby. (Photo by @erinelizabeth1031), If your lucky lady loves the hooch as much as you do and youre not in Kentucky for the horses then what better place to propose than the mecca of bourbon, Bardstown? Where to stay: Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls The Missouri Ozarks Getty Images Dont be a sucker: Buy rings from trusted online sources James Allen, Whiteflash, and Blue Nile. Scope out a romantic spot at Kansas City's botanical garden (there are tons to choose from). Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed the protected land that we know as Badlands National Park in South Dakota. 2. The Windy City has tons of wonderful venues, like the Grove Redfield Estate, Newberry Library and Loyola University. Glore Psychiatric Museum could be the set for a horror movie, says Walls, but for now, it depicts treatments used at the adjacent state mental hospital that dates back to the 1800s. (Do not drop the ring up there!) A boom town when the Kansas Pacific Railway built Wilson Station in 1865, Wilsons downtown retains beautiful sandstone-blocked buildings surrounded by a well-kept residential area. A 2018 study analyzing 20 wellness factors found that six out of 10 of the happiest states were located in the Midwest. Sandy beaches, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes make it ideal for all sorts of outdoor recreation, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. If you want to get technical (why not? (Photo by @armstrongcreativeimag), You dont need Meryl Street or Clint Eastwood to do a romantic tour of the bridges of Madison County, and many of the famous, picturesque covered bridges of the county seat provide a perfect spot for a special, all-American, love-of-your-life moment. From biking to bovines to brews, this is small-town Wisconsin at its best, states Sherman. (Photo by @forgotteniowa), Who needs Oz? Her work has appeared in a variety of print and digital outlets, including. Falls also a good time to go to avoid the tourists. Our goal, to share the worlds unique, hidden and once in a lifetime locations with you to create unforgettable memories. It really is a place that keeps you as busy as you want to be and soothes your soul in the best possible way, declares Deurlein. Nineteen miles of driving heaven, the byway cuts through mountains and past waterfalls, gentle slopes of foliage and striking landscapes. Golden Spike Tower overlooks the worlds largest railyard, the Union Pacifics Bailey Yard. Love Missouri? Wed be remiss not to mention the plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. It's noteworthy for many reasons, starting with the fact that its home Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the oldest continuously operating racetrack in the country. Watch for wild turkeys, coyotes, and whitetail deer. The Midwest may not get as much love as the coasts, but it has plenty to discover. Stevenson suggests having a picnic at Grant Park, which overlooks the river, and wandering through the Civil War monuments. Explore the hotels near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Explore the hotels near Badlands National Park. (Photo by @itsmemikepe). The 10 best places to live in the Midwest Rogers Park (Chicago), Illinois Ann Arbor, Michigan Naperville, Illinois Carmel, Indiana Overland Park, Kansas Madison, Wisconsin Woodbury, Minnesota Eagan, Minnesota Troy, Michigan St. Peters, Missouri Ad Take the first step to becoming a homeowner today Get a Mortgage Rate that works for you. Whether you prefer taking it easy and just going for a leisurely stroll surrounded by breathtaking beauty or tackling more strenuous trails, Hocking Hills State Park is a destination that should be included on any self-respecting Midwest bucket list. Falls Park Falls Park might just be the most picturesque place in Sioux Falls, so no matter where you chose to propose here, you'll have a wonderful view and a special memory. 6. Its the perfect trip to take the grandkids on during summer vacation, Piper tells us. What's more romantic than a day at sea (er, lake)? Population: 491,800 (2.14 million in metro area) Unemployment rate: 6.7%. The Elkhart River and St. Joseph River make a lovely backdrop for this vibrant city that features fun dining spots and historic homes like Ruthmere to tour. Bridal Cave in Camdenton has seen thousands of couples tie the knot over the decades, inspired by local legends of a Native American wedding ceremony held here in the 1800s. Built in 1844, the historic Milton House was a stop on the Underground Railroad. By Kelsey Yandura April 15, 2022 Advertisement Voyageurs National Park It was already known for its crisscrossing hiking trails and skiing, and now it can be known as the spot where you and your wife-to-be got engaged. And a cozy stroll of restaurants and shops, the Riverwalks most romantic spot is arguably the Selena Bridge, named after the Tejana singer. Instead, make the trip up Mount Tantalus to Tantalus Lookout, day or night, to enjoy a rare urban landscape of Honolulu. (Photo by annsong_), Texas is big. They are some of the most popular things to do when visiting Lafayette. The hotel restaurant buys only from sustainable farms and ranches, so youre covered there, but make sure you bring your own Champagne to celebrate her yes Gorhams Bluff is in a dry county, so they cant sell you alcohol, but they will ice and open your wines and beers for you, and wont even charge a corkage fee. Okay. Even Minnesota -- the most expensive of the Midwestern. Whether you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime destination or a place you can return to and build on tradition year after year, the often-overlooked Midwest offers a myriad of getaway options. (Photo by @mviron), Is it the gateway to the West, or the gateway to your future with your wife-to-be (assuming she says yes)? Going in winter, of course, is going to be a bear. The hiking loop is just over 7 miles long and climbs up to 500 feet, but youll be rewarded with many views of the lake that are perfect for a proposal. U.S. President Grant lived here and his home is open for tours. Seriously, tie one into a knot and slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and shell be yours for sure. It recently won an A+ rating on the Niche Report Card, thanks to the quality of its public schools and welcoming atmosphere for families. OK, now that we got that out of the way, lets talk about this beautiful and bountiful area. With real estate costs rising in most major U.S. cities, finding a good real estate deal seems impossible. My 9 Favorite Restaurants In Puerto Vallarta Plus What To Order, 7 Things To Do In Beautiful Edmonton, Canada, My 9 Favorite World Heritage Sites I Visited In Japan, 9 Historic Midwest Homes That Bring The Holidays To Life, 17 Fantastic Apple Festivals To Experience In The Midwest This Fall (2022), 5 Midwest Cities I Love Visiting In The Summer, Explore The Past At These 11 Midwest Living History Museums, For details on Quillt's privacy and cookie policies, please visit our, George Washington Carver National Monument, Patee House Museum & the Jesse James Home, 9 Beautiful Waterfalls To Visit In The Midwest, 9 Life Lessons From A Multigenerational Midwest Road Trip. Richmond Heights, Missouri. 9 LITTLE-KNOWN LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES WHERE CROWDS ARE FEW AND FAR BETWEEN. The Native American Museum and Black Archives Museum are part of the same complex. To find the best of the Midwest, we reached out to our expert travel writers. The world's only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is located in downtown Cleveland, Ohio. Each July, a huge Czech festival is held, celebrating generations of culture, food, and crafts. Beautiful in all seasons, Egg Harbor is in close proximity to cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking options. Here are the top 4 best vortexes in Sedona, Arizona: Airport Mesa Bello Rock Boynton Canyon Cathedral Rock Pink Jeep Tours An iconic experience throughout the adventurous Sedona Mountain terrain, the Pink Jeep Tours are an exciting nature experience that is guaranteed to spark a thrill! Hotel Phillips Dcj3616/commons.wikimedia.org This Kansas City Art Deco landmark is sure to make sparks fly! Peninsula State Park in Door County is teeming with natural beautytowering bluffs, sandy stretches, cedar forests, scenic overlooks and more. The Gateway Arch is Missouris most recognizable monument, but its never really swamped with visitors, which is a shame, because its a beautiful structure (with lots of Instagram-worthy engagement-announcement possibilities) and the park is a pleasant place to spend an afternoon. Assuming, of course, that youre both the outdoorsy types. Minneapolis, MN, ranks as one of the best places to live in the Midwest partly because of its innovative economy that touches a breadth of industries from software to renewable energy. Lincoln County Historical Museum is a group of amazing museums including Western Heritage Village and the World War II North Platte Canteen exhibit. Mackinaw . Obviously, you want to go when the weather lets you enjoy the garden, in spring or summer, preferably. Walls recommends visiting in springtime, when more than 400,000 sandhill cranes migrate through for about 6 weeks, preparing for the nesting period to come. It also serves as an excellent base for exploring the rest of the peninsula. This 23-day Cruise Takes You to 10 States on Some of the Most Scenic Rivers in the U.S. Why You Should Pick a State Park Over a National One This Summer and a Few of Our Favorites, 12 Best Lake Michigan Beaches With White Sand, Rolling Dunes, and Stunning Views, a cruise expedition to all five Great Lakes. Spring Green, Wisconsin. Balloon Sport offers rides in Kansas City, Springfield and Joplin. Three simple words can describe this Root River Valley favorite: agriculture, outdoors, and arts.
