Are you looking for a place to visit this weekend that is out of the ordinary?
Then you are in luck! Below is a list of Unique Vacation Destinations in the Midwest to Visit this Weekend.
Washington Island, Wisconsin
Washington Island is one of our favorite hidden gems in the Midwest.
The island is located in Door County, Wisconsin, and is accessible by ferry ride.
The island features Schoolhouse Beach, Lavender Fields (seasonal), and a ferry that takes you to a secluded island.
Another cool feature is the ability to island hop to Rock Island, which makes for the perfect day trip from Washington Island. [Read also: Must See Attractions around Washington Island]
Potosi, Missouri
Potosi, Missouri, is the perfect weekend getaway for the whole family.
This small town has so much to offer, such as Washington Park, which offers fantastic hiking trails and a swimming pool during the summer months.
At night check out the Starlite Drive-in, which offers a movie under the stars.
Being able to see the sky full of stars is special for anyone who lives in the city.
Another excellent attraction worth visiting is the Trout Lodge which features a variety of activities, from swimming in a lake to renting multiple non-motorized boats, such as a stand-up paddleboard, canoe, and kayak.
Trout Lodge also has zip-lining, horseback riding, and archery. These are just a few of the many attractions offered at Trout Lodge. [Read also: Missouri’s Hidden Gem: Potosi, Missouri]
North Shore, Minnesota
North Shore, Minnesota, has many family-filled attractions for the whole family, including taking a ride on a Gondola to the top of Moose Mountain.
The Gondola is an enclosed object that features a 360-degree view of beautiful scenery that slowly takes you up the mountain allowing plenty of time to take in breathtaking views.
Other attractions include Luster Alpine slide canopy tours, lighthouse tour and picnicking at Canal Park.
During winter, you can also experience dog sledding, snowboarding, and ice fishing. Therefore, making this a great destination to visit year-round.
Flint Hills, Kansas
Flint Hills, Kansas, is the perfect vacation destination for anyone who loves the great outdoors.
The area features the world’s largest tallgrass prairie, Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve.
Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve features several hiking trails that allow for exploration throughout the prairie.
You can also drive through the Scenic Byway in Flint Hills, Kansas. The Scenic Byway allows for excellent views right from the comfort of your car.
Fort Robinson State Park, Nebraska
Fort Robinson State Park features endless activities to keep anyone entertained.
The park features over 22,000 acres of incredible scenery and access to seeing buffalo.
You can also explore the park through hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding.
Nebraska’s Fort Robinson State Park features over 60 miles of hiking trails and 20 miles of horseback riding and mountain biking trails.
If you are looking for a more relaxing way to explore the park, check out the jeep tours or horse-drawn tours. It’s a great way to sit back and relax while seeing everything the park offers.
The massive indoor pool and an outdoor wading pool are also great attractions at the park.
Fort Robinson State Park also features 9 holes of golf; every Thursday at 8 pm, the park staff host a rodeo. The rodeo is free to the public.
In addition to an outdoor pool, golf, and rodeo, there is also an entertainment theatre. Thus, allowing endless adventure for everyone at your party to enjoy while visiting Fort Robinson State Park.
Some attractions are only available seasonally. Check out Fort Robinson State Park website for more information.
Turner Falls, Oklahoma
Turner Falls Park is tucked away in Arbuckle Mountain.
This makes it an excellent destination for an outdoor getaway. The park features a variety of outdoor activities that will keep you busy during your stay.
One of the main attractions in this park is the 77-foot waterfall that falls into a plunge pool below. The plunge pool makes for a great natural open body of water that many swim in.
Furthermore, the plunge pool has a sandy beach area that allows easy water access.
In addition to the waterfall and swimming site, the park has a rock castle you can tour.
The Callings Castle is a unique location to explore. Supposedly, the castle’s story goes; it was built by Dr. Collings in the 1930s and abandoned in the 1980s.
The castle is explorable; however, be prepared to climb several steps.
Another great attraction is the hiking trails located throughout Turner Park.
The hiking trails allow for views of the park that otherwise would never be seen. Climbing the top of the path can give breathtaking views of Turner Falls.
In addition to stunning views, the trails can take you to multiple caves that can be explored.
Custer State Park, South Dakota
The last hidden gem in the Midwest is Custer State Park in South Dakota.
The state park features over 71,000 acres of land to explore that features a variety of wild animals, including over 1,500 Bison.
The park features a drive-through wildlife loop road to see the wildlife up close.
Custer State Park also feature jeep safari tours, hayrides, and guided horse rides. Allowing for a fun and unique way to explore the park.
Other great attractions at the state park include hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails. The complete list of trails and descriptions is on the South Dakotas State Park website.
Full List of Hidden Gems in the Midwest
- Washington Island, Wisconsin
- Potosi, Missouri
- North Shore, Minnesota
- Flint Hills, Kansas
- Fort Robinson State Park, Nebraska
- Turner Falls, Oklahoma
- Custer State Park, South Dakota
If you have been to any of the places listed above, we would love to hear about your experience in the comments below.
About Author, Sara Elizabeth
Writer, Amora V Lifestyle
Co-Owner of Elizabeth Besich Boutique
Sara is a writer for Amora V Lifestyle and is Co-Owner of Elizabeth Besich. Sara previously worked as a Marketing Manager and has her Master’s from Lindenwood University.
Sara studies everything of interest, from psychology, recipes, finances, mental health, and travel, thriving to find happiness and to live a good life.
When not learning, Sara loves all things outdoors, food, and hanging around great company. Furthermore, Sara loves spending time with family, who she is blessed to have in her life.
Note from the author: Through my articles, I hope to bring you joy and peace and that you enjoy it!
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this travel blog are solely those of the author and do not necessarily represent those of any organizations mentioned or affiliated with. The information provided in this blog is accurate and up-to-date to the best of the author’s knowledge, but readers are advised to do their own research and confirm any information before making travel plans or decisions. The author is not responsible for any loss, injury, or inconvenience sustained by readers while traveling based on the information provided in this blog. Travel at your own risk and always prioritize your safety and well-being. Any reviews or comments written are the subjective opinion of an Amora V Lifestyle member and not Amora V Lifestyle. Amora V Lifestyle performs occasional checks on commentary left by users. It’s worth mentioning that we may also use comments in our articles. By posting a comment, you are giving us permission to use it in our content. Please check out Privacy Policy and Terms of Use for full disclosure.
