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Locals often claim that “Midwest is the best,” but is that really the case with so many vibrant beach towns to vacation along the West, East, and even the Gulf Coast?
Well, it’s true in the eyes of USA Today, whose avid readers promised 4 Top 10 Midwest Destinations in the US
In fact, it wasn’t a real seaside resort that came out on top; the Midwest also rounded out the top 2.
Turns out it’s not just falling as this vast region comes to life, nor do you have to enjoy an obligatory PSL for every photo while rocking a fluffy flannel.
Whether it’s crystal-clear lakes, underrated cities, or even storybook islands, the Midwest proves that summer isn’t tailor-made for Florida after all.
4) Branson, Missouri (Ozarks)
Can we have a “Yeehaw!” to get?
Branson is Nashville Jr. to some, because you never know when a country music star will take the stage. For others, it’s a great gateway to some of the Midwest’s most amazing natural areas, including lakes and rolling green ridges.
If you were glued to it Ozark like me, then you know that the Ozarks have more coastline than California and it’s nowhere near the hillbilly haven depicted in Netflix’s hit show.
It’s actually very family friendly, full of water parks and soon to have a fun Osage beach resort I’ve been keeping an eye on it for years.
“Until it opens, you have name brands like Margaritaville anchoring a beautiful lakefront estate or you can stay in the heart of the action in Branson.
3)Madison, Wisconsin
Madison has long been considered Wisconsin’s most beautiful city, as well as one of America’s most underrated capitals.
As it is also a student town, summer is the perfect time to visit as you won’t have to deal with university sports crowds, although the visit here is well worth a visit. Dane County Farmers Market attracts a lot of foot traffic.
If you’re a foodie, don’t tell your doctor you’re heading to Madison, a city known for its impeccable selection of beer and cheese, the former being a great way to cool off in the summer humidity.
And there are plenty of outdoor activities, such as various water sports and cycling trails, to burn off the calories.
Like the Ozarks, Madison is also a beautiful lake destination, with a total of five lakes between which the cityscape lies Lake Mendota And Lake Monona – truly one of the most aesthetically captivating cities in the Midwest.
Wherever you go, make sure you check travel warnings and our safety index.
2) Indianapolis, Indiana
You may not believe it, but Indy may be the trendiest city in America, not just in the Midwest.
With the Pacers reaching an NBA Finals and the Indianapolis 500 more popular than ever, sports tourism is one of the many reasons driving the city’s sudden rise.
In addition to sports, there are also festivals in abundance here. It doesn’t matter if you like food, culture or both, you will find your place all year round.
For the summer, both locals and tourists are excited about the 21st IndyFringe Festivalready to throw a birthday party to take what is already one of the coolest events in town to the next level,
I’ve had the pleasure of visiting Indianapolis, and I have to say it’s one of the most walkable downtowns I’ve been to, and a scenic urban River Walk that doesn’t get enough hype.
But since my last visit, Mass Ave. revived, breathing new life into a city not generally known as a holiday destination.
Oh, and if you want an absolute must-eat, you gotta have it St. Elmo’s famous shrimp cocktail. It’s really famous, not just a marketing gimmick.
1) Mackinac Island, Michigan
Sometimes the latest gadgets and gadgets just don’t cut it: it’s nice to turn back the clock.
That’s why Mackinac Island, a car-free oasis nestled along the sparkling waters of Lake Huron, has been crowned the nation’s No. 1 summer vacation spot.
Think Victorian architecture, carriage rides instead of Ubers, world-famous fudge shops and incredible hotels like Stonecliff’s Inn.
It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a quiet summer in a charming town or whether you want days of outdoor adventure.
Despite being relatively small, Mackinac makes a huge impact, especially if you go outside of the city center to places like Mackinac Island State Parkwhich is open 24 hours a day to kickstart your day with a bike ride or end a fun day by looking at the night sky.
