The Midwest region of the United States is known for its wide-open spaces, friendly people, and beautiful scenery. From the rolling hills of the Ozarks to the Great Lakes, there is no shortage of natural beauty to be found in the heartland of America. In this article, we will take a closer look at 12 of the most beautiful Midwest states, highlighting some of the unique features and attractions that make each one worth visiting.
Illinois
Illinois is home to some of the most vibrant cities in the Midwest, including Chicago, the state’s largest and most iconic city. The Windy City is known for its towering skyscrapers, world-class museums, and vibrant nightlife. Outside of Chicago, Illinois is also home to stunning natural areas such as Shawnee National Forest, Starved Rock State Park, and the Garden of the Gods Wilderness.
Indiana
Indiana may not be the first state that comes to mind when you think of beautiful places in the Midwest, but it’s certainly worth a visit. The state is home to the Indiana Dunes National Lakeshore, a stunning stretch of sandy beaches and towering dunes that overlook Lake Michigan. Other notable attractions in Indiana include Brown County State Park, Turkey Run State Park, and the Indianapolis Motor Speedway.
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Iowa
Iowa is a state of contrasts, with rolling farmland giving way to rugged bluffs along the Mississippi River. The state is also home to some impressive urban centers, including Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Iowa City. For outdoor enthusiasts, Iowa offers a wealth of opportunities for hiking, biking, and fishing, with popular spots including Pikes Peak State Park, Backbone State Park, and the Loess Hills.
Kansas
Kansas is often associated with flat, featureless prairies, but the state has much more to offer than that. One of the most impressive natural wonders in Kansas is the Monument Rocks, a series of towering chalk formations that rise up from the plains. Other notable attractions include the Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, the Flint Hills, and the Cimarron National Grassland.
Michigan
Michigan is the only state in the country that is divided into two separate land masses, with the Upper Peninsula being separated from the Lower Peninsula by the Straits of Mackinac. The state is known for its abundant freshwater resources, including the Great Lakes and countless inland lakes and streams. Popular attractions in Michigan include Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Mackinac Island, and the Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore.
Minnesota
Minnesota is the land of 10,000 lakes, and it’s not hard to see why. From the pristine waters of Lake Superior to the countless smaller lakes and streams scattered throughout the state, there is no shortage of water-based activities to enjoy in Minnesota. The state is also home to some stunning natural areas, including the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Itasca State Park, and the North Shore of Lake Superior.
Missouri
Missouri is often called the “Show Me State,” and it certainly has plenty to show visitors. The state is home to some of the most picturesque towns and cities in the Midwest, including St. Louis, Kansas City, and Branson. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find plenty to do in Missouri, with popular destinations including the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Mark Twain National Forest, and Ha Ha Tonka State Park.
Nebraska
Nebraska may be known for its expansive cornfields, but it also has a surprising amount of natural beauty to offer visitors. One of the most notable attractions in the state is Chimney Rock, a striking geological formation that served as a landmark for pioneers traveling westward on the Oregon Trail. Other must-see destinations in Nebraska include Scotts Bluff National Monument, the Sandhills, and the Platte River Valley.
North Dakota
North Dakota may be one of the least populous states in the country, but it’s also home to some truly stunning scenery. One of the most iconic landmarks in the state is Theodore Roosevelt National Park, which encompasses more than 70,000 acres of rugged badlands and rolling grasslands. Other notable attractions in North Dakota include the International Peace Garden, the Maah Daah Hey Trail, and the North Country National Scenic Trail.
Ohio
Ohio may be best known for its role in American history, but the state also has a wealth of natural beauty to explore. One of the most popular destinations in Ohio is Cuyahoga Valley National Park, a stunning area that boasts waterfalls, scenic vistas, and plenty of opportunities for hiking and biking. Other notable attractions in Ohio include Hocking Hills State Park, Lake Erie, and the Ohio River.
South Dakota
South Dakota is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in the country, including Mount Rushmore and the Badlands. But the state also has plenty of lesser-known natural beauty to offer visitors. One of the most impressive destinations in South Dakota is the Black Hills, a rugged mountain range that boasts countless trails, caves, and waterfalls. Other must-see destinations in South Dakota include Custer State Park, Wind Cave National Park, and the Missouri River.
Wisconsin
Wisconsin is a state that truly has it all, from charming small towns to bustling cities, from tranquil lakes to rugged mountains. One of the most popular destinations in Wisconsin is Door County, a picturesque peninsula that juts out into Lake Michigan and is known for its charming towns and stunning natural scenery. Other notable attractions in Wisconsin include the Apostle Islands, Devil’s Lake State Park, and the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
Conclusion
The Midwest may not be as well-known for its natural beauty as some other regions of the country, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth exploring. From the soaring peaks of the Black Hills to the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, there is no shortage of stunning scenery to be found in these 12 beautiful Midwest states. So if you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or just a chance to unwind and soak up some natural beauty, be sure to add these destinations to your travel bucket list.
FAQs
- What is the most scenic drive in the Midwest? A: One of the most scenic drives in the Midwest is the Great River Road, which follows the Mississippi River through 10 states from Minnesota to Louisiana. This route offers breathtaking views of the river and its surrounding landscapes, as well as opportunities to explore charming river towns and historic sites along the way.
- What is the best time of year to visit the Midwest? A: The best time to visit the Midwest depends on your interests and the activities you want to do. Summer is a popular time for outdoor adventures and festivals, while fall is a great time to enjoy the changing leaves and harvest season. Winter offers opportunities for skiing and other winter sports, and spring brings blooming wildflowers and migrating birds.
- What are the best outdoor activities to do in the Midwest? A: The Midwest offers a wide range of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to fishing and kayaking. Some of the most popular outdoor destinations in the Midwest include national and state parks, lakes and rivers, and scenic trails for hiking and biking.
- What is the most popular national park in the Midwest? A: The most popular national park in the Midwest is probably Yellowstone National Park, which spans parts of Wyoming, Montana, and Idaho. This iconic park is known for its geothermal features, including Old Faithful, as well as its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- What are some of the best small towns to visit in the Midwest? A: The Midwest is home to countless charming small towns, each with its own unique character and attractions. Some popular small towns to visit in the Midwest include Galena, Illinois, Stillwater, Minnesota, and Saugatuck, Michigan. These towns offer historic architecture, quaint shops and restaurants, and plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities.
