The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

Ready to travel? We’ve gathered up this list of the very best in Midwest Weekend Getaways to help make your planning easier! You’ll find them grouped by state, but I’ve also noted which ones are the best for families, couples, girlfriends getaway, and more! I hope you’re excited to get exploring!

Minnesota

Minnesota is full of great destinations perfect for families, couples, and girlfriends alike! There is so much more to this state than it’s 10,000 Lakes that it makes a perfect destination for one or more weekend getaway in the Midwest.

New Ulm

New Ulm, Minnesota has a rich German heritage that you’ll see virutally everywhere! Head to this small community to feast on delicious donuts, beer, wine, and do some exploring!

• BEST FOR: New Ulm is a great destination for couples or a girlfriends getaway!
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Climbing to the top of Hermann the Giant to enjoy the view of the entire area
  • Tour Schell’s Brewery
  • Wander German Park
  • Wine taste at Morgan Creek Vineyards!
  • Enjoy donuts from The Backerei
  • Take in History at the Harkin Store, Minnesota Music Hall of Fame, and the Brown County Historical Society & Museum
• STAY: Rest your weary head at the Best Western Plus! You’ll come back feeling refreshed and ready to tackle adult responsibilities!

Mankato

If you love the outdoors, then it’s time you head to Mankato, Minnesota.

• BEST FOR: Families & Couples alike will enjoy this Southern Minnesota community!
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Take a day to kayak the Blue Earth River with Bent River Outfitters or conduct your own float.
  • Take your bike for a ride on one of their great trails.
  • Hike at Minneopa State Park & take in the waterfalls which are pretty spectacular.
  • Enjoy some of the best ice cream at Mom & Pops!
  • Take a walk along the river walk and enjoy the street art!
• STAY: We recommend staying at the Courtyard by Marriott on the outskirts of town!

Roseville

When most people think of taking the family to the Twin Cities, they think Mall of America, but we have another idea for you! Head to Roseville, which is positioned perfectly between Minneapolis & St. Paul and within access of lots of great family activities!

• BEST FOR: Anyone, but especially families!
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Take a family cooking class at THAT Cooking School
  • Wonder through the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. Enjoy all the oversized art
  • Take in the Science Museum of Minnesota which offers tons of hands on activities for kids!
  • Carve out a bit of time to spend at the Como Zoo & Conservatory, which has free admission. There are also lots of behind the scene encounters you can pay for! It’s a great time and there is lots to see!
  • Spend several hours at Can Can Wonderland. Here you’ll find the most unique indoor miniature golf course, and retro arcade games. Pizza and ice cream creations are available and will please everyone!
• STAY: The Courtyard by Marriot is the perfect place to recover each night!

Ohio

Don’t overlook this state for a great weekend getaways in the Midwest

Cincinnati

Submitted by Cornfields & High Heels

Romance can be found in Ohio!

• BEST FOR: Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Enjoy one of the most romantic, underground restaurants – Sotto.
  • Visit a the Cincinnati Museum of Art & the UnMuseum
  • VIsit coffee shops like Coffee Emporium, 1215 Wine Bar & Coffee Lab, & La Terza Coffee Roastery
  • Walk through Jungle Jim’s International Market
  • Wander through Eden Park
• STAY: Cincinnati is full of lots of great Air BnB’s

Dublin

Submitted by Zen Life and Travel

Dublin, Ohio is a fantastic weekend destination.

• BEST FOR: Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Explore the Bridge Park area and Historic Downtown Dublin. These 2 walkable areas are connected by a brand new pedestrian bridge that crosses the Scioto River.
  • For a romantic dinner, try the patio at The Pearl which overlooks the bridge, or stop by Harvest Pizza for the best pizza in Central Ohio!
  • Work your way through the Dublin Celtic Cocktail Trail while you explore the area to try out some other great restaurants!
  • Check out the bike paths that wander throughout Dublin — they even connect into beautiful Glacier Ridge Metro Park.
• STAY: After a long day of exploring Dublin, stay at the AC Hotel Dublin in the Bridge Park Area. This hotel has a great rooftop bar and restaurant called Vaso so it’s perfect for a nightcap with a view of Dublin.

Iowa

Iowa is full of great destinations and full of endless options for Midwest Weekend Getaways!

Elk Horn

Ready to explore Danish culture? Head to Elk Horn, Iowa, situated just about 10 minutes North of Interstate 80 in Western Iowa! Don’t be deceived by this town of only 650 people, they’ll blow your socks off!

• BEST FOR: Couples or a Girlfriends Getaway
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Tour the Danish Windmill! Make sure to climb to the top to see how the mill works & for the view!
  • Learn about Danish Culture at the Museum of Danish America!
  • Stroll the downtown area and check out their small businesses.
  • Wine taste at Danish Countryside Winery
  • Enjoy some delicious food! Larsen’s Pub features an award winning tenderloin, order the skillet cookie at the Norse Horse, or try pizza at Grace on Main
• STAY: Book a room in nearby in Audubon (about a 20 minute drive) at the Blue Grass Inn & Suites!

Okoboji

Whether you’re looking for a lake getaway or things do off the water, Vacation Okoboji has something for everyone to enjoy!

• BEST FOR: Families, Girlfriends Getaway, or Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Play at one of the oldest and best amusement parks in the world, Arnolds Park.
  • Enjoy wine & live music at Little Swan Lake Winery
  • Kayak the lake and canals of West Okoboji
  • Golf at the beautiful Emerald Hills Golf Club
  • Enjoy a traditional Midwest Supper Club meal at Yesterday’s! Go for the homemade curly fries…AH-MAZING!
  • Brunch at the Beach Club inside The Inn!
• STAY: We loved the traditional beachside stay at Crescent Family Resort. It’s great for families with it’s free amenities, but also for couples or a girls getaways because of the spacious suites/apartments!

The Quad Cities

Submitted by Thirty Something Super Mom

Romantic Getaways are a great way to reconnect as a couple and an even better way to get some alone time without the kids.

• BEST FOR: Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Eat at Bass Street Chop House, LaFinca, or Lagomarcino’s
  • Enjoy a free tour of Missippi River Distilling in LeClaire
  • Shop at Antique Archeology founded by American Pickers, Frank & Mike.
  • Taste Test at Wide River Winery
• STAY: The Current Iowa – This historic and yet updated hotel has it all! Did we mention a hot cocoa bar?!

Audubon County

We love Audubon County, Iowa for a lot of reasons. However, it’s a great place to head if you love the outdoors!

• BEST FOR: Couples, Girlfriends, Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Audubon County is home to the T-Bone Bike trail. This paved 20 mile trail runs from Audubon, through Hamlin, Exira, and under Interstate 80 into Cass County!
  • Go fishing or swimming at Littlefield Recreation Area.
  • Visit Kimballton to see their Freedom Rock and the Hans Christian Anderson Mermaid Sculpture.
  • If you’re a flower lover, head to Gary and check out the Heritage Rose Garden, which features of 200 different kinds of roses.
  • Burn off energy at the Audubon Rec Center, including bowling & an arcade
  • Shop the great local shops downtown Audubon
  • Enjoy pasta or Mexican for supper at El Adobe in Audubon
  • Enjoy the John James Audubon Birdwalk!
  • Grab coffee and baked goods from The Bakery on Broadway
• STAY:
  • If you’re traveling as a couple or for a girls weekend, enjoy being out in the great Midwest countryside by staying at the Taylor Hill Lodge!
  • Traveling with the family, book a room at the Blue Grass Inn & Suites complete with indoor pool!

Dubuque

Dubuque is known as “Where Iowa Started” and it’s a great place to start your family weekend adventures!

• BEST FOR: Couples & Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • The National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium is a great place to start your weekend with the family!
  • Enjoy the street art along the Port of Dubuque River Walk
  • Head to Eagle Point Park to enjoy playground equipment, have a picnic, and take in the views of the river, for virtually FREE! It only costs a whopping $1 per car.
  • Hike at the Mines of Spain for another incredibly view of the river!
  • Ride the Fenelon Place Elevator!
  • Enjoy supper at The Barrel House
  • Grab ice cream from I Scream, U Scream in historic downtown!
• STAY:
  • If you’re enjoy Dubuque for a couples weekend, a stay at the Hotel Julien Dubuque is a must!
  • Heading to town with the family, book a stay at Grand Harbor Resort.

Sioux City

Submitted by Siouxland Families

Sioux City, at the junction of I-29 and US-20 in northwest Iowa, is a great family destination for a weekend away! 

• BEST FOR: Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Play indoors at LaunchPad Children’s Museum with a focus on STEM based interactive play,
  • Explore the Sioux City Art Center, especially the Hands-On Gallery, and the weekend workshops for kids!
  • Have a poppin’ good time at Jolly Time Koated Kernels for some popcorn from America’s oldest family-owned popcorn company
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth at Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a wide variety of candies, nuts, and other confections!  
  • Burn off energy at Riverside Park which features a pool and waterslide, adaptive playground & multiple splash pads at Miracle Field.
  • Walk or bike along the walking trails that go from Riverside Park to the Missouri River front.
  • Explore the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Stone Park
  • Drive through Billy Boy for burgers, fries, & shakes!
  • Dig into broasted chicken from Sneaky’s!
• STAY:
  • Historic Warrior Hotel in downtown Sioux City is recently renovated and reopened.
  • Chocolate Mansion or Linda Sue Manor are great bed & breakfasts
  • North Sioux City KOA has camping spots and cabins alike!
  • Check out the lodges at Stone Park

Missouri

Sedalia

When I’m ready to relax and slow down, we head for Sedalia, Missouri!

• BEST FOR: Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Explore the historic Katy Depot, which is home to the Sedalia Convention & Visitors Bureau, so it’s a great place to start your trip.
  • Take your bikes or rent them and take a spin on the Katy Bike Trail, which you can enjoy without even leaving town!
  • Make sure to take time strolling their historic downtown admiring the old buildings, but as well as spotting all the bicycle themed street art and hunting for murals!
  • Enjoy some of the tastiest barbecue at Kehde’s BBQ. Enjoy your meal in a historic train car
  • Grab coffee at the Ozark Coffee Company
  • Experience a romantic five star meal at the Ivory Grille
• STAY: There is only one real option, in our opinion, which is a stay at the historic Hotel Bothwell.

St. Louis

Submitted by Mommy & Me Travels

St Louis, MO is the gateway between the eastern and western United States.  This makes it a great family weekend getaway in the Midwest.  

• BEST FOR: Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Take a stroll around the St. Louis Arch grounds and then ride to the top to view the St Louis skyline for miles.
  • Experience Union Station, which recently underwent a massive renovation to become a large family fun complex.  Here your family can take a ride on the Observation Wheel, play Mini Golf, spin on the Carousal, swing from the rafters on the Rope Course, visit the new interactive Aquarium, and so much more.  
  • Spend time at City Museum.  This museum is unlike any other in that it is a piece of art that kids and adults get to climb around on and slide down multiple story slides.  
  • Eat at Fitz on Delmar Loop or Soda Fountain at Union Station
• STAY: Both options are centrally located!
  • Hyatt Regency on the river
  • Embassy Suites on Washington Ave.

Illinois

Tonica

Submitted by The Working Mom’s Travels

An ideal getaway option for couples and families alike is Kishauwau’s Starved Rock Area Cabins in Tonica, Illinois. Kishauwau is located only two hours west of Chicago but it truly feels like a different world.

• BEST FOR: Couples & Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Enjoy time with your loved ones as these cabins don’t have wifi or cable TV
  • Explore Starved Rock State Park
  • Adventure to Matthiessen State Park
  • Experience an outstanding gastropub and craft beers at Lodi Tap House
• STAY: There are 17 self-catering cabins on the Kishauwau property ranging in sleeping capacity from 1-2 to 14 people. Twelve of the cabins feature oversized whirlpool tubs (great for romantic getaways) and all cabins include outdoor fire pits, grills, and picnic tables.

NEBRASKA

Lincoln

Submitted by Odyssey Through Nebraska

Don’t discount Lincoln just because you think “nothing” exists in Nebraska!

• BEST FOR: Families
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Tour of the Nebraska state capitol to understand more about the state.
  • Play at the Lincoln Children’s Museum. 
  • Eat at Runza, a Lincoln original fast food location. If possible, try the German-influenced sandwich – the Runza, a cabbage and hamburger stuffed sandwich. (Don’t worry, parents, there are chicken strips and more options for picky eaters). 
  • Learn at the Nebraska History Museum where kids can enjoy playing in a tepee as well as looking at pictures and other artifacts.

WISCONSIN

Kenosha, Wisconsin

Situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, you’ll find the city of Kenosha, Wisconsin. This harbor town has so much to offer you and your family!

• BEST FOR: Families & Couples
• MUST DO THINGS:
  • Water activities are always an option: Take a sail on the Red Witch Tall Ship, rent a boat, play at the beach, and more!
  • Take your adventures inside and head to one of their MANY museums.
  • Get in touch with your German side at the Petrifying Springs Biergarten
  • Bite into a juicy burger at The Garage: Sports & Burger Bar
  • Stop at Tenuta’s Italian Grocer & Deli and grab some Italian delights!
• STAY: Book your room at the Wyndham Garden Inn in the harbor and ask for a harbor view room. Here you are able to keep an eye on the coming and going boats!

Midwest Weekend Getaways

The Midwest is full of all sorts of adventures and trips! Whether you’re looking for big city or country trip, you’ll find it here! If you’re looking for a getaway with your special someone, there is a trip for you! There is plenty for the outdoor lovers as well as families! Which one of these Midwest Weekend Getaways are you going to schedule first?