Let the city spell it out for you. At Buffalo Bill State Historical Park, explore Scouts Rest Ranch, the second empire-style mansion the famed Pony Express rider, Army scout, and buffalo hunter-turned-showman built during the heyday of his Wild West show. Explore hotels near Shawnee National Forest. Theyre perfect for a casual stroll before going out to grab a runza for dinner oh, and whats this in my pocket? This monument, symbolizing the Native American relationship with the earth, fire, and water, is worth seeing during the day, too. (Photo by @armstrongcreativeimag), You dont need Meryl Street or Clint Eastwood to do a romantic tour of the bridges of Madison County, and many of the famous, picturesque covered bridges of the county seat provide a perfect spot for a special, all-American, love-of-your-life moment. Seriously, tie one into a knot and slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and shell be yours for sure. The South Dakota Cultural Heritage Center and the South Dakota Discovery Center are among Pierres numerous museums. Bottom line: You get more sparkle for less dough at James Allen, Blue Nile, and Whiteflash. Try to shell out for a suite, each of which comes with a stone fireplace and whirlpool tubs. Go in the winter, when shell have to cozy up to you in the water as the snow falls around you. Arkansas: Garvan Woodland Gardens Garvan Woodland Gardens, Arkridge Road, Hot Springs, AR, USA The botanical garden of the University of Arkansas, and part of the school of design and architecture, this whole place looks like history's most romantic genie snapped his fingers just so you could get your lady to say yes to tying the knot. It also has a most impressive Underground Railroad history site, the Milton House Museum. Four years later, I know get to help people across the world propose to the love of their life- and it's the absolute best job I could possibly ask for! Midwestern getaways everyone should experience at least once. U.S. President Grant lived here and his home is open for tours. backdrop for any proposal. Instead, make the trip up Mount Tantalus to Tantalus Lookout, day or night, to enjoy a rare urban landscape of Honolulu. Step back in time with a stay at the iconic Grand Hotel, with its record-breaking front porch and formal dinner dress code. Explore the hotels near Badlands National Park. One of the best cities in the U.S., according to Travel + Leisure's 2022 World's Best Awards, Chicago is a must-visit Midwestern destination. A trip to the beautiful town of Muscatine is in order according to Cindy Ladage. 1. Follow the Ohio and Erie Canal Towpath Trail. The Skywalk Observatory, at the top of the Prudential building, offers the citys only 360-degree views and lets you get a birds-eye perspective of your relationship, Beantown, the Patriots at Deflategate . These public gardens date back to the 1930s, are now easily one of the prettiest spots on the prairie. (Photo by @forwardappareico), Jackson Hole and Yellowstone are obvious choices in the Cowboy State, but take the 40-minute drive outside Jackson Hole to the brilliantly clear waters of Phelps Lake. Explore hotels near Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Ames, Iowa EQRoy/Shutterstock. The city is home to several historical sites and parks. Held annually in the Indianapolis area, this race draws visitors from around the world for its epic 200-lap feat. For more rail explorations, locomote over to The Cody Park Railroad Museum to see old rail cars, including a mail car, caboose, and the only Challenger 3900 series steam locomotive on display in the world. Nearby, the Precious Moments Chapel features Sistine Chapel-inspired murals. (Photo by @moxiemitsubishi), Yeah, we know, we know: You go to Vegas for the quickie wedding and Reno for the quickie divorce. The Best Places to Camp in Midwest National Parks Our region might be known for its plains, but remote islands, towering cliffs and dense forests are here tooif you know where to look. A fun stop all around!. Walls recommends dining at J. C. Wyatt House, Fredrick Inn Steakhouse, Boudreauxs Louisiana Seafood & Steaks, and RCs Lunch Car. Where to stay: Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls The Missouri Ozarks Getty Images It really is a place that keeps you as busy as you want to be and soothes your soul in the best possible way, declares Deurlein. What's more romantic than a day at sea (er, lake)? Ms Pub is always a favorite. Here are the top 4 best vortexes in Sedona, Arizona: Airport Mesa Bello Rock Boynton Canyon Cathedral Rock Pink Jeep Tours An iconic experience throughout the adventurous Sedona Mountain terrain, the Pink Jeep Tours are an exciting nature experience that is guaranteed to spark a thrill! Here, you are transported to a simpler time filled with home-baked Americana at every turn, describes Robyne Stevenson. Built specifically for river use, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi sets sail in Minnesota, nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, and continues through the heartland before concluding in New Orleans, Louisiana. Enjoy a glass of Big Buck Blueberry wine at Timber Hill Winery and stay for trivia or live music. Whether you prefer taking it easy and just going for a leisurely stroll surrounded by breathtaking beauty or tackling more strenuous trails, Hocking Hills State Park is a destination that should be included on any self-respecting Midwest bucket list. Located 57 miles from Columbus (though it feels like a world away), this beguiling area brims with forests, cascading falls, caves and gorges. Potato Creek State Park offers plenty of activities, including kayaking through wetlands, biking along woodlands, and bird watching on Lake Worster. (Photo by @, Dos and Donts of Marriage Proposalsfrom Pro Planners, 5 Rules For A Successful Marriage Proposal, The 10 Commandments Of Popping The Question. The grand lobby of The Elms Hotel & Spa, Excelsior Springss lovely, soothing and historic resort. Have a shot, agree to get hitched, follow with another shot (probably on the house). When it comes to dining, Yonkey recommends the pan-seared walleye with Cajun seasoning at Mad Marys Steak House & Saloon. Nah, talk about clich. Ok, just great schooling in general (Photo by @thisisalabama), Whether you still think of it as Mount McKinley or its newly restored name, Denali, the continents tallest peak is an insurmountable (get it?) Ladage loved her stay at the lovely Merrill Hotel, which is located right across from the Mississippi River close to Muscatines historic downtown. If you prefer to stay outside of downtown, Ironworks Hotel. This Victorian sculpture, featuring stunning water arches, is eye-grabbing at day, but even more so at night, when it's lit up against the backdrop of Kansas City's Girada Bell Tower. Its quaint downtown is filled with historical buildings and plenty of cafes and restaurants serving up Midwest fare. It provides a good jumping-off point to explore the river walk and The National Pearl Button Museum. (Photo by @luvmyssi). For outdoor fun, Ladage suggests checking out Wellfield Botanic Gardens. Milton is one of the places you can hike the unique Ice Age Trail, found on E. Storrs Lake Road. No visit to South Bend is complete without a tour of Notre Dame, according to Deurlein, who says, Youve seen it in the movies, but its a thrill to stand before Touchdown Jesus.. 6. While there, a great option for lodging is the Bottleworks Hotel. Median property value: $166,400. OK, great, now envision a picturesque place thats all about swimming, boating and just all-around waterfront fun. Springs the obvious season to visit here. During Rail Days, held annually in early August, visitors tour Bailey Yard with a motorcoach tour. Specifically, the federal government defines it as the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsinin other words, it spans a lot of gorgeous ground. Did you get engaged somewhere romantic in Missouri? The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame remains a dedicated museum space all year, too, with the "Right Here, Right Now" gallery featuring outfits from stars like Beyonce, Taylor Swift, and Harry Styles. But we like Jones Point Park, just south of Old Town, with its unconventional lighthouse, wooded paths and the waterside walkway under the yawning George Washington Memorial Parkway a juxtaposition of man against nature that somehow works. Consider another of Viking's regional options, a cruise expedition to all five Great Lakes. TRAVEL + LEISURE is a registered trademark of Travel + Leisure Co., registered in the United States and other countries. Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma) From Kylie of Between England and Iowa. (Photo by @janellewyutong), Ashevilles already arguably North Carolinas prettiest town, but the 30-acre rose garden designed by Frederic Law Olmsted at the Biltmore ratchets things up a considerable notch. Some of the lowest average home prices If you consider average house prices by state, most of the Midwest falls on the very low end. (Photo by @david.goes.travel), The falls that give the town is namethe gateway to the Snake River Canyonare so magical they seem to be festooned with rainbows in every Instagram photo. Yes, clearly, were talking about Shawnee National Forest, where Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, and the 403-mile multi-use Rim Rock Recreational Trail are just three of the many magnificent sights. Once a booming town with a busy highway, Milton, Wisconsin, is now an off-the-beaten-path town that Melody Pittman loves. Either way, both overused expressions fully apply to this absolutely stunning place thats packed with native plants and animals. Pro tip: Plan an early May visit to see baby bison and other newborn animals. The giant and sign honors Joplin history, including infamous outlaws Bonnie and Clyde. You could also park and hike the Devils Bathtub Trail. St. Louis is also an awesome city for foodies. The leisurely ride to quaint Kimmswick or Hannibal is the perfect time to discuss your future together. 1. Did you know that Madison County has the largest collection of covered bridges anywhere in the western half of the Mississippi Valley? While Viking may be best known for its ever-popular European river cruises, its Mississippi River offering is also worth planning a trip around. The town might be small but the attractions are mighty in Chamberlain, says Shel Zolkewich of the south central South Dakota town nestled at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and the Missouri River. During the summer, treat yourself to a caramel twist deluxe sundae at Zesto. And this one has a bonus, Sherman says, a Swiss influence! It is evident in everything from the architecture to the shops as well as in the foods and flavors of the area. They are some of the most popular things to do when visiting Lafayette. Des Moines also has one of the highest housing affordability scores in the Midwest, and about 74.2% of households spend less than 30% of their income on housing. The Midwest may not get as much love as the coasts, but it has plenty to discover. (Photo by @mviron), Is it the gateway to the West, or the gateway to your future with your wife-to-be (assuming she says yes)? How about getting out of Sin City (or Reno) altogether and taking a hot-air balloon ride over the desert, far from the cha-ching of the slots? Built in 1844, the historic Milton House was a stop on the Underground Railroad. What were describing is Lake of the Ozarks State Park. As one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S., visitors won't need to battle crowds to earn some respite. Whether you're looking for a once-in-a-lifetime destination or a place you can return to and build on tradition year after year, the often-overlooked Midwest offers a myriad of getaway options. Pine Creek Grist Mill, the oldest grist mill this side of the Mississippi, is just a short drive away in Wild Den State Park. (Photo by @withlove_alina), You dont have to be a movie star for this one: Before there was Robert Redfords pet film festival, there was his resort, which covers over 5,000 beautiful acres of the slopes of Mount Timpanogos near Provo. Chicago The Windy City is, in itself, worthy of bucket-list status.Catch soaring views at Skydeck Chicago (pictured), walk among majestic architecture in Grant Park (also home to Millennium Park), explore the world-class Art Institute of Chicago, catch a Chicago Cubs game at legendary Wrigley Field and gush over a gooey slice of Chicago deep dish pizzafor starters. Seriously, tie one into a knot and slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and shell be yours for sure. On January 27, 2023, the hotel is hosting a bluegrass festival. Assuming, of course, that youre both the outdoorsy types. Its a refreshing take on a city whose people have their noses buried in work and studya perfect break in which to try something big and new. Katy Spratte Joyce is a freelance food, business, and travel writer based in Omaha, Nebraska. Before you do, check out these epic proposal spots in Missouri that deliver big in the romance department. The 10 best places to live in the Midwest Rogers Park (Chicago), Illinois Ann Arbor, Michigan Naperville, Illinois Carmel, Indiana Overland Park, Kansas Madison, Wisconsin Woodbury, Minnesota Eagan, Minnesota Troy, Michigan St. Peters, Missouri Ad Take the first step to becoming a homeowner today Get a Mortgage Rate that works for you. There are also bike share programs and a free shuttle. But with millions of proposals made each year (2.4 million of which actually lead to weddings), its hard to stand out. The natural wonders of Hocking Hills State Park never cease to amaze. The focus on wellness extends to yoga and mindfulness sessions offered by staff, says Ebsworth-Goold. Population: 491,800 (2.14 million in metro area) Unemployment rate: 6.7%. For all of you inner-city dwellers, trendy Detroit neighborhoods include Midtown, New Center, and Brush Park. (Photo by @boardwalkplazahotel), Unless your lady love is a Disney fanatic in which case, you may be getting engaged while wearing mouse ears go to the oldest town in America, St. Augustine, and get down on one knee by the fort, on George Street or during a serene beach day. (Photo by @petershieldsinnandrestaurant), Its not cheating to take the tram to the top if its the fastest way to her heart. (Photo by @travelzoo), They do boast that Virginia is for lovers, dont they? Explore hotels near Hocking Hills State Park. (Photo by @getaway_couple), L.A.s Hollywood sign? An ideal place to propose, the soaring cliffs stretch for miles, and in the late spring and summer months, are dotted with colorful wildflowers. (Photo by @allwilderness), Everyone heads to the controversial Skywalk these days, but those people would propose at the fake Eiffel Tower in Vegas and say it counted as going to Paris. Each July, a huge Czech festival is held, celebrating generations of culture, food, and crafts. Or, should we say that it will take your breath away? Check it out. The hiking loop is just over 7 miles long and climbs up to 500 feet, but youll be rewarded with many views of the lake that are perfect for a proposal. You can learn more about that process here. Stop by the Art Institute of Chicago, catch a game at Wrigley Field (home of the Cubs), or attend a show at the birthplace of improv, The Second City. Many know St. Louis as the Gateway to the West, but St. Joseph also has that claim to fame, sans fancy arch. Galena, Illinois 10. She recommends ending your day at Egg Harbors Harbor View Park, which she describes as a great place to see the sun set on this adorable Midwest town., Elkhart Lake is an hours drive from the Milwaukee airport, and that hour is all the effort youll expend on this water-for-days getaway, attests Deurlein. No matter what season, Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis offers stunningly romantic spotsby fairy light during the holiday Garden Glow, surrounded by tulips of every hue in the spring, the Victorian boxwood garden in the summer, or the Ottoman Garden in the fall. The Grand Basin . The littles will love the Back 40 Playground at the Community Orchard (open seasonally, August through October) and the Childrens Forest at Kennedy Park. Go in the warmer months. You can find out more and change our default settings with Cookies Settings. Below are the 12 best Midwest cities based on population, cost of living, job opportunities, crime rates, availability of things to do, and more! Patee House Museum & the Jesse James Home showcases the two things St. Joseph is famous for: the Pony Express headquarters and the place where outlaw Jesse James was shot and killed. From trendy restaurants (Public at the Brickyard is Robbins cant-miss) to art walks through the Douglas Design District, theres more here than prairie and sunflowers. Then check in to unpack your bags at the adorable three-bedroom, three-bathroom guest house only steps away.. . Lying at the heart of the Great Lakes region on the border with Canada, Michigan is a breathtakingly beautiful place to explore; it has over 12,000 inland lakes, endless forests, beaches, and rivers, as well as more coastline than any other state apart from Alaska.. (Photo by @flyingarnolds), You thought wed say Graceland, right? This artistic egg in Egg Harbor is called Living Canopy. The Midland Railroad Hotel has been stunningly restored. Though its daytime activities, like guided paddling excursions and hiking tips, are lovely, the 218,000-acre park shines as an after-dark destination. This artistic egg in egg Harbor is called Living Canopy & Saloon festival is held, generations. 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