Midwest Winter Destinations
Explore the ultimate wintry getaways
Pictured: Wisconsin’s Apostle Islands National Lakeshore near Meyer’s Beach, Lake Superior.
Winter in the Midwest can feel bleak unless you know what to look for. Luckily, our slice of the US is full of hidden gems and snowy wonderlands waiting to be explored. From the beaches of the Great Lakes to ski-ready peaks and skate-worthy lakes, here are some of our favorite winter escapes!
🗻 Lutsen, Minnesota
We have to start this list off with our home state! Lutsen is home to the largest downhill ski experience in the midwest- over 1000 acres across four peaks with Lake Superior as a backdrop. In truth, anywhere on Lake Superior’s north shore offers amazing experiences; Grand Marais, Silver Bay, and Duluth. The world’s largest freshwater lake is a Midwestern must-see. Lutsen Mountains boast winter sports and epic scenery, so it is a great spot to start your Midwest winter adventures.
🎡 Chicago, Illinois
While this may seem an obvious choice, Chicago is an evergreen destination with the best of the Midwest wrapped into the country’s third-largest city. Ice skating and sledding abound, while Chicago’s nightlife, entertainment, and restaurant scene are second to none. Need we say more?
🍒 Traverse City, Michigan
This town is at the top of every Midwest list and is widely considered the world’s cherry capital (famous for its cherry industry). Traverse City, set on beautiful Lake Michigan, preserves Michigan’s early history with Victorian cottages, trade trails, mission churches, and more! Tour the gorgeous Sleeping Bear Lakeshore or visit the Grand Traverse Commons, a historical community turned retail extravaganza. Swing by a winery and check out the Mission Point Lighthouse. With so much to see and do, Traverse City is a must-add to any Midwest travel guide.
🦬 Badlands National Park, South Dakota
National Parks are busiest during the spring and summer months for a reason, but don’t let the season deter you; there is more than enough nature to appreciate during the coldest time of the year. Wintertime means fewer guests and foot traffic and more opportunities to see wildlife, like the endangered black-footed ferrets and bison. Prepare thoroughly, and enjoy large stretches of undisturbed prairie as far as the eye can see.
🥾Loess Hills, Iowa
This little-known region stretches across Iowa, Missouri, Nebraska, and Kansas, with incredible sights to behold. Defined by rolling hills and valleys created by glaciers long ago, Loess Hills are filled with outdoor recreation and activities! The Loess Hills State Forest is just one of many conservation areas, and this unique landscape looks especially beautiful during winter. The state forest’s visitor’s center is perfect for geology nerds, and with over 60 miles of trails, this hidden gem ideal for a rare winter experience.
