Make the most out of the waning days of summer and early fall. These legendary Midwest locations will treat you to thrills in the heartland.

Illinois

Go from big city to small town in the Land of Lincoln, and check out some natural attractions along the way.

Walk Chicago’s Magic Mile

Known as the Windy City, Chicago’s skyline dominates the shoreline of Lake Michigan, and many visitors put the Magnificent Mile at the top of their lists. Just a few blocks from the lake’s shoreline, this stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with upscale boutiques, gourmet restaurants, museums, and fancy hotels. If you prefer fresh air, hang out at Millennium Park near the lake and gawk at your reflection on the giant Bean sculpture.

Chicago on Lake Michigan. Getty Images

Loving the Lakes

North of Peoria, Spring Bay offers a homey Midwestern getaway. At 200-acres, Sankoty Lakes treats visitors to three clear blue lakes, each more than 60 feet deep, along with a mile-long trout stream. Visitors also can go kayaking and canoeing on the water or hop on a Spirit of Peoria Cruise to explore the Illinois River.

Journey Into the Past

On the vast Illinois prairie, a thriving metropolis once hummed with activity. Today, the Cahokia Mounds preserves a Native American community that was larger than London in 1250 A.D. After visiting this 2,200-acre tract of archeological digs, travel across the Mississippi River and venture into St. Louis, home of the magnificent Gateway Arch.

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Boardwalk steps down a dune at Indiana Dunes National Park. Getty Images

Indiana

The Hoosier State thrills travelers with outdoor adventure and a creative spirit. Get a renewed appreciation of the Midwest.

Go Canoeing, Biking and Building Spotting in Columbus

Forty-five miles south of Indianapolis, Columbus offers both urban and outdoor experiences. In town, visitors can find out why Columbus is on the cutting edge of building design by taking an architecture tour. Active travelers can rent a vessel from Blue’s Canoes and paddle down the Driftwood River. Pump up the adrenaline at Columbus BMX, with dirt tracks designed for all ages and skill levels.

Colorful cityscape in Columbus, Indiana.

Relax in Remington

Located between Chicago and Indianapolis, Remington is the perfect spot for kicking back and appreciating nature. Enjoy a bottle of wine from Carpenter Creek Cellars or sip a tall one from one of the many breweries in town. To the North, the Indiana Dunes National Park on Lake Michigan is the perfect day trip.

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Cincinnati skyline. Getty Images.

Ohio

Stay near a celebrated city and in the heart of Amish country in the Buckeye State.

Camping Around Cincinnati

As one of the Midwest’s biggest cities, Cincinnati has all the cultural offerings you’d expect from a big metropolis without the huge crowds. Check out the Art Deco Cincinnati Union Terminal. This train station has been converted into a complex of museums, including the Cincinnati Natural History Museum, the Duke Energy Children’s Museum and the Museum of Natural History and Science. Get outside on the Great Miami Riverway, with lots of places for kayaking as well as paths along the bank for hiking.

Amish Country. Tourism Ohio

Explore Country Roads in Mt. Eaton

In Amish County, the community of Mt. Eaton treats visitors to a slower way of life, with serene country roads leading to Amish shops farms, many of which sell delicious Amish pastries. To the north, visitors can visit the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, ride coasters in Cedar Point Amusement Park and fish on Lake Erie.

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Branson performer. Photo: Branson CVB

Missouri

Great entertainment and big-city excitement compete for your attention in the Show Me State.

Feel the Branson Beat

Branson is a showcase of wholesome entertainment. The town is packed with theaters that feature artists performing classic hits from country music, soul and pop genres. Nearby, Silver Dollar City dishes out amusement park thrills for all ages.

Near town, anglers can hook largemouth, smallmouth and spotted bass on Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo. Looking for something different? Bowfishing has caught on in popularity, giving folks a chance to blend archery and fishing. Aim your arrow at carp, suckers, perch, catfish and gar in the shallow areas of Bull Shoals Lake and Table Rock Lake.

Wakeboarding on Table Rock Lake. Photo Credit: Unsplash, KaLisa Veer

Meet Me in St. Louis

Towering 65 stories into the sky, the Gateway Arch looms over St. Louis as an iconic symbol of westward settlement. Visitors can ride to the Arch’s apex and get sweeping views of both St. Louis and Illinois across the Mississippi. For a quirky attraction that’s great for kids, the City Museum showcases exhibits that include a giant aquarium, architectural museum and art activities. Climb the winding tunnels and stairs of the epic play structures.

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