Make Your Way Through the Magnificent Midwest
Ope! If you haven’t had a chance to explore all the Midwest has to offer groups, we’re going to have to bust out the ranch dressing, cheese curds, and coney dogs to accompany a lesson on why the region is quickly becoming a top choice. From the open, rolling plains, to the refreshing salt-free shores of the Great Lakes, to dramatic rock formations, join us for an exploration of the magnificently diverse Midwest.
In Michigan, fresh water coastlines, automotive history, and Motown reign supreme. Groups can venture to Frankenmuth for a truly Bavarian experience with a chicken dinner at Zehnder's of Frankenmuth or a thirst-quenching stein at the city’s annual Oktoberfest festival. Spend time in Detroit to visit the world-renowned Detroit Institute of Arts among a bounty of other cultural centerpieces before traveling west to the many coastal cities dotting the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline. Venture north to experience the majesty of the car-free Mackinac Island, and be sure to cross the “Mighty Mac” into the state’s upper peninsula (the U.P.) to kayak next to the towering sandstone cliffs of Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. Look down into Lake Superior’s crystal-clear waters and you may even see a shipwreck or two beneath you!
Photo courtesy of Detroit Institute of Arts
Chicago shines bright in Illinois! Situated on the western shore of Lake Michigan, the Windy City is always bustling. Get a 360-degree panorama view of the city (and potentially three other states) from 1,353 feet up at Skydeck Chicago, see thousands of aquatic animals from around the world at historic Shedd Aquarium; do some shopping along the Magnificent Mile, and more. To the west, groups will find Aurora, the state’s second-largest city located on the rolling Fox River. It’s here that groups could take a tour of the historic Edin Farnsworth House, learn why “butter is your best friend” at Ms Jana’s Candy, and enjoy a wine tasting and live music at Fox Valley Winery.
Photo courtesy of SoIN Tourism
Indiana brings sports, history, an iconic NASCAR race, and more to the table. Starting in French Lick, hometown of basketball legend Larry Bird, groups could hop aboard the French Lick Scenic Railway for various themed train rides through nature. From brunch to beer to chocolate to the Wild West and more, there’s something available for all groups. In Clarksville, groups will find Falls of the Ohio State Park, home to a stunning 390-million-year-old fossil bed, while various festivals throughout the region keep the fun going all year long. Don’t forget the exhilarating INDY 500 at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, typically taking place on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.
Photo courtesy of Sarah Suydam.
Home to more than just delicious dairy, Wisconsin delivers on all fronts. An hour west of Madison, House on the Rock is a one-of-a-kind structure full of unusual wonders and artifacts collected by the home’s creator, Alex Jordan. Whether it’s the mind-bending Infinity Room, the World's Largest Carousel, or the 200-foot-long sea creature sculpture, there’s truly nowhere else like it. Perhaps a hidden gem for some, Lake Geneva is ideal for a quaint-meets-luxury lakeside getaway. Admire the many Gilded Age mansions lining the 21-mile public pathway surrounding Geneva Lake (on foot or via the Lake Geneva Cruise Line), grab a lakeside lunch at Pier 290, relax at Avani Spa at The Abbey Resort, cool off in the pool at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, and more.
Many know Minnesota for its resilient people, iconic state bird, and of course, Prince. At Paisley Park in Chanhassen, groups could step inside the legendary artist’s estate and production complex—where he recorded, produced, and performed—for a tour, special events, and more. The fun continues in Alexandria, where groups could explore the state’s lake culture at the seasonal Legacy of the Lakes Museum, go shopping for antiques and other unique items on Broadway, enjoy a performance from the Central Lakes Symphony Orchestra, and more. Don’t forget to visit the Big Ole Viking statue for a photo!
Known as the Buckeye State, Ohio is the place to go if you’re looking for some thrills. At the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland, groups will find permanent and rotating exhibits spotlighting some of music’s greats—along with iconic artifacts not seen elsewhere. To the west in Sandusky is Cedar Point, where 67 rides bring adrenaline to the forefront alongside a sandy beach. And be sure to spend time in Columbus, home to the charming German Village neighborhood and The Book Loft, lovingly dubbed by many as a "literary labyrinth.” Zanesville also offers group-friendly fun, whether you choose a scenic riverboat cruise aboard the 104-foot Lorena Sternwheeler or a tour at The Wilds—one of the largest endangered animal conservation centers in the world.
Photo courtesy of Travel Dubuque
Iowa is recognized as an agricultural hub complete with sprawling rural landscapes. Groups who visit this heart-of-the-Midwest state are in for a treat! Spend some time in Dubuque, a true hub of “Midwest Cool.” It’s here groups could hop on the world’s shortest and steepest railroad—Fenlon Place Elevator; taste the world-famous caramels made by the nuns at Our Lady of the Mississippi Alley; have a catered themed meal at the Field of Dreams movie site; enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the Dubuque Museum of Art; and more. Nearby in Harpers Ferry is Effigy Mounds National Monument, a sacred site dedicated to preserving over 200 prehistoric mounds (some shaped like animals) built by pre-Columbian Mound Builder cultures.
Photo courtesy of Crazy Horse Memorial
Stunning South Dakota is also worth a visit, especially the picturesque Black Hills & Badlands area. From scenic byways, to numerous parks, monuments, memorials, luxurious lodging, and more, there’s plenty to discover. One such site groups could explore is the Crazy Horse Memorial®, a massive (still in progress) mountain carving that’s dedicated to the Lakota humanitarian hero and honors all Indigenous people of North America. Other must-sees include the otherworldly landscapes of Badlands National Park and the Devils Tower National Monument (technically in Wyoming). And if you love corn, a visit to Mitchell’s Corn Palace is sure to top your list.
Be sure to also explore these Midwest destinations:
- Kansas | travelks.com
- Missouri | visitmo.com
- Nebraska | visitnebraska.com
- North Dakota | ndtourism.com
Written by Sarah Suydam, Managing Editor for Groups Today.
This article originally appeared in the May/Jun ’26 issue of Groups Today.
Main photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.
