With most of America’s tourist activity concentrated on the East and West coasts, the

charming Midwest is often an afterthought for international travelers. But, to forget about the

12 Midwestern states would be to restrict your travel experience in America, with each

offering something completely different from the next.

In this guide, we shine a light on these spectacular states and encourage you to discover the

towns and cities that lie in wait when you dare to venture away from the typical tourist trail.

Whether you’re embarking on a U.S. road trip or are just looking for an extraordinary holiday

destination, keep these three spots in mind.

Brown County, Indiana

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A large portion of the Midwest states have undergone radical urbanization over the past

century, but a catalog of natural beauty spots remains. One of the very best examples of the

Midwest’s wild charm can be found in Brown County. Just a short drive from the metropolitan

hub of Indianapolis, visitors have the chance to fully immerse themselves in the great

American countryside. Outdoor adventures await at every turn, and with thousands of acres

of woodland to explore, it’s the perfect place to reconnect with nature.

Some of the main attractions here include the State Park, where you can admire the

breathtaking vistas from the saddle as you head on a horseback ride – or by foot if hiking is

your preferred mode of travel. Head to the quaint town of Nashville, famed for its rustic

shops and art galleries that are sure to appeal to any traveling aesthete. When it’s time to hit

the hay, retreat to one of the many unique lodging options across the county. From log

cabins to an old schoolhouse, the accommodations are certainly in keeping with the county’s

artisanal charm.

Galena, Illinois

America’s Midwest is teeming with traditional towns and cities, making it a prime destination

for traveling history buffs. If you want to venture back in time, there are few better places to

visit than Galena, Illinois. This attractive small town retains plenty of its 19th-century charm,

with traditional architecture offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Galena is best known for

being the residence of Ulysses S. Grant, and you can take a tour of the former president's

home which is open to the public Wednesday through Sunday.

The town’s Main Street is a hotspot for a little retail therapy, with hundreds of boutique stores

and local restaurants serving up both traditional and international fare. The town center is

very walkable and offers easy access to the main attractions, meaning you’re able to spend

an entire afternoon wandering the streets and sampling the tasty treats on offer.

Door County, Wisconsin

Door County in Wisconsin is a destination steeped in history and tradition; immersing

yourself in the local culture during your stay is the best way to appreciate the rich heritage of

this county.

The locals here are incredibly proud of their natural surroundings, which can be admired in

so many ways. First of all, there are hundreds of miles of shoreline to discover, with Door

County bounded by the beckoning waters of Lake Michigan; head on a kayak tour to Cave

Point, or discover historic shipwrecks on a rafting adventure.

If you’re visiting in the summer, you may want a spot to cool off – and there’s nowhere better

than Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island. Don’t be fooled by the lack of sand – the

beach’s polished limestone rocks provide a passageway to the crystal clear waters which

are excellent for swimming.

The county is also known for its wine production, with nine different wineries to choose from.

And what better food is there to complement your wine-tasting experience than some local

Wisconsin cheese? Cheesemaking is ingrained in the county’s (and state’s) culture, so

sampling some local produce is a must.

Marvel at the Midwest

As we’ve discussed, there are lots of diverse experiences and attractions that await you in

the Midwest. Step off the beaten path and explore these lesser-known treasures for a

plethora of unforgettable travel experiences.