Planning a road trip can be exciting but daunting. With so many destinations up for consideration, narrowing down all the possibilities is difficult. But with careful planning and research, you will surely have an amazing experience wherever you travel. We'll explore the best Midwest road trips worth taking in 2023.

From quaint small towns along Lake Michigan to towering mountain peaks deep within the Midwest wilderness - these trips will bring adventure into your life while delivering breathtaking visuals every step of the way. Whether you want a weekend escapade with friends or a multi-week family vacation full of new experiences, let's hit those highways and explore everything the Midwest offers this year.

Wisconsin's Great River Road

Wisconsin's Great River Road is one of the most iconic scenic drives in the Midwest. This route follows the winding Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the Wisconsin countryside, along with plenty of attractions, such as museums, galleries, wineries, and more, along the way.

Start your journey in La Crosse, where you can visit historical sites like Granddad Bluff, cruise on a riverboat, and then continue downriver to Dubuque for unique shopping experiences.

The drive will also take you through towns like Prairie du Chien and Galena, offering outdoor recreation opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, hunting, and more.

Indiana's Natural Wonders and Small Towns

Indiana is home to some of the Midwest's most spectacular natural wonders, including rolling hills, dense forests, and sparkling lakes. The best way to experience all Indiana offers is on a road trip through its small towns.

Begin your journey in Bloomington, where you can explore its diverse music scene before heading south towards Nashville and Brown County State Park for hiking and camping opportunities.

Continue eastward to Indianapolis for cultural attractions like the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or The Children's Museum before finishing up your trip in Fort Wayne at the historic Embassy Theater or Science Central Museum.

Michigan's Upper Peninsula

With miles of picturesque shoreline along Lake Michigan, Michigan's Upper Peninsula is an adventurer's paradise. Start your journey in Copper Harbor and explore its rugged coastline before heading to Houghton and Keweenaw National Historical Park.

Here you can experience the area's rich maritime history and get a glimpse of some of the native animals in their natural habitat. Afterward, head to Mackinac Island for a unique island experience with horse-drawn carriages and fudge shops.

Your trip will also take you through stunning Marquette, where you can visit historic sites or participate in outdoor activities like fishing, chartering, or mountain biking.

Iowa's Loess Hills

Iowa's Loess Hills is just what you need for those looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This scenic drive takes you through breathtaking landscapes with grand prairies, sandstone bluffs, and lush forests.

Start in Sioux City and venture westward to Sergeant Bluff for a majestic view of the Missouri River Valley before making your way to Onawa, where you can explore historic sites like Effigy Mounds National Monument or take part in outdoor activities like fishing or kayaking at Lake Odessa.

Finish up your trip in Council Bluffs with a visit to the restored Omaha Union Station to experience its unique architecture before heading home.

Nebraska's Sandhill Journey

Nebraska's Sandhill Journey is just the thing if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. This route takes you through stunning landscapes of dunes and rolling hills with some of the best birding opportunities in the Midwest.

Begin your journey in Norfolk and take a boat tour down the Elkhorn River before continuing to Valentine's to experience its charming downtown area. Afterward, head towards O'Neill, where you can explore Fort Niobrara National Wildlife Refuge or participate in outdoor activities such as fishing or camping at Smith Falls State Park.

Finally, end your trip at Chadron State Park for breathtaking Rocky Mountains views and plenty of hiking opportunities.

Route 66's First Leg

Route 66 is one of the most iconic road trips in America, and its first leg takes you through Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Start your trip in Chicago, which offers plenty of attractions such as the Art Institute of Millennium Park, before heading south to Springfield, where you can explore Abraham Lincoln's home.

Continue westward to St. Louis for a unique eating experience at Pappy's Smokehouse before making your way to Joplin, Missouri, where you can explore Route 66's original alignment and visit some classic roadside attractions like the World's Largest Rocking Chair or Devil's Elbow State Park.

Head towards Tulsa for unique attractions such as the Gilcrease Museum or Woody Guthrie Center before finishing up your trip to Oklahoma City.

These Midwest road trips will surely provide you with an unforgettable experience and some of the best landscape photography opportunities in the region.

Minnesota's North Shore

Minnesota's North Shore is one of the most beautiful drives in the Midwest, and it takes you along Lake Superior, offering breathtaking views all along. Start your journey in Duluth, where you can explore its historic downtown area or take a boat tour around Canal Park before heading east on Highway 61.

Your trip will take you through towns like Two Harbors, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage State Park for some outdoor activities such as fishing or camping. Continue towards Lutsen to experience its ski slopes, and then go to Tettegouche State Park for stunning lake views. Finish up your trip in Ely at the International Wolf Center before heading home with memories that will last a lifetime.

South Dakota's Monuments and Scenery

South Dakota is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the Midwest. This road trip takes you through rolling hills, wild meadows, and impressive monuments. Begin your journey in Rapid City, which offers attractions such as The Journey Museum or Reptile Gardens, before heading south towards Badlands National Park for stunning views of its eroded buttes.

Continue eastward toward Wind Cave National Park for a unique cave experience, and then visit Deadwood for a glimpse into its lawless past with visits to Wild Bill Hickok's grave or historic saloons like Saloon No 10. Finish up your trip at Mount Rushmore National Memorial, where you can admire the four presidential faces carved in granite before heading home.

FAQS

What are the best highway travel days?

The best days for highway travel in the Midwest vary depending on the season and your destination. Generally, Thursdays through Sundays tend to be busier than other days. Planning around major holidays or events that may cause increased traffic is also a good idea.

What are some scenic routes in the Midwest?

Some of the most scenic routes in the Midwest include Iowa's Loess Hills, Nebraska's Sandhill Journey, Minnesota's North Shore, and South Dakota's Monuments and Scenery. Each of these routes takes you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the region.

What is the best time to drive to avoid traffic?

The best time to drive to avoid traffic varies depending on the season and destination. Generally, early morning and late evening hours are less busy than midday. Additionally, avoiding rush hour (typically 7-9 am & 4-6 pm) can help you avoid some of the worst traffic.

Conclusion

As we have seen, the Midwest offers many road trip options for travelers looking to experience all this region has to offer. An adventure awaits everyone, from state parks rich with natural beauty to bustling cities with world-famous attractions and cuisine. A Midwest road trip is sure to be a one-of-a-kind experience filled with memories that will last a lifetime.

So if you are looking for an exciting journey, look at the Midwestern states. With so many wonderful possibilities, explore the best the Midwest offers! Best of luck on your Best Midwest Road Trips.