They say the term “flyover states” was condescendingly invented by people who live on the coasts. But, you sometimes have to wonder if Midwesterners themselves actually coined it, or at least didn’t object to it, in hopes that they wouldn’t have to share their beautiful backyards with the rest of us. As long as people just kept flying over, the cat wouldn’t get out of the bag. But travelers, and social media, eventually spilled the beans. So, regardless of the term’s uncertain origin, it’s clear that states like North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan are worth your time and money. But where should you begin? So you don’t have to throw a dart at a map or ask a Midwesterner who might keep their secret spots secret (just kidding, Midwesterners are famous for being friendly), we’ve compiled the list below. From an island with more fudge shops than Ford trucks to a wilderness area National Geographic named one of its “50 Places of a Lifetime,” here are six must-see sites in the Northern Midwest.
Here’s Where to Go on an Upper Midwest Road Trip
1. Mackinac Island, Michigan
Since banning horseless carriages in 1898, Mackinac Island has remained stuck in the past in all the best ways. What the 3.8-square-mile island lacks in cars, it more than makes up for with fudge shops, ferry rides, lighthouses, and Victorian architecture. Need your nature fix? More than 80 percent of the island, which is located between Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, lies within Mackinac Island State Park. The park itself boasts nearly 100 miles of hiking and biking trails. With so much to do in a concentrated family-friendly area, it’s no wonder the destination has been named the #1 Best Summer Travel Destination by “USA TODAY” for the second year in a row.
Nearby KOAs
Mackinaw City / Mackinac Island KOA Journey
St. Ignace / Mackinac Island KOA Holiday
2. Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan
While you’re in Michigan, consider heading to the UP to camp at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It spans 42 wild miles of Lake Superior coastline and is named for the colorful sandstone cliffs towering up to 200 feet tall. In the summer you can swim, fish, kayak, or even snorkel along the scenic shore. Not up for getting wet? Bike or hike along the 100 miles of trails to waterfalls, beaches, and spectacular viewpoints. In winter, the waterfalls turn into “ice curtains” that attract climbers from all around the world. It’s a great spectator sport, of course you can also snowmobile, ice fish, or cross-country ski if you want to get your own heart rate up.
Nearby KOAs
Munising / Pictured Rocks KOA Journey
3. Theodore Roosevelt National Park, North Dakota
If you don’t have time to visit all three sections of Theodore Roosevelt National Park along the western Badlands border of the “Peace Garden State,” at least give yourself a couple of days to explore the South Unit. It’s the easiest to access, but lest you start to worry about crowds, remember: you’re still in North Dakota. “Crowded” means you might actually see a person, far off in the distance. So take the 36-mile Scenic Loop Drive, hike the Painted Canyon, visit the Petrified Forest, and watch for the almost mythical wild horses near the town of Medora. If you’re visiting between June and September, don’t miss the Medora Musical which promises “good old-fashioned family fun with thrilling variety acts, live horses on stage, a firework finale, and new twists each summer.”
Nearby KOAs
Bismarck KOA Journey
4. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota
With more than 1,200 miles of canoe routes winding through nearly just as many lakes, the North Star State’s Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness has definitely earned its spot as one of National Geographic Traveler’s “50 Places of a Lifetime.” Canoe, camp, and hike to your heart’s content in the warmer months. Stay in one spot, taking day trips to explore, or pack light and portage your canoe to access more remote waters. While watching your paddle cut through the water can be mesmerizing, keep your eyes peeled for rare birds and even the northern lights. You’re in Minnesota’s first designated Dark Sky Sanctuary. While you may not be able to canoe in the colder months, dog sledding across the silent snow and ice (snowmobiling here is a no-no) is always an option.
Nearby KOAs
Thunder Bay KOA Holiday
5. Door County, Wisconsin
With Green Bay on its left, Wisconsin’s easternmost county juts out into Lake Michigan. It boasts more than 300 miles of scenic shoreline dotted with picturesque lighthouses, cherry and apple orchards, and charming small towns where you’ll wind up looking at real estate listings. There’s also prime fishing here—or if you don’t fish, crash a local fish boil—and plenty of opportunities to hike and bike. For more unique experiences, visit a winery where you can test your cherry pit spitting skills or sit down for a stack of Swedish pancakes at Al Johnson’s iconic restaurant. Don’t mind the goats grazing on the roof. They’re not on the menu, they’re the entertainment.
Nearby KOAs
Door County KOA Holiday
6. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
Wisconsin Dells may be named after the Wisconsin River’s sandstone formations, but it prefers to go by its moniker: “The Waterpark Capital of the World.” If your kids, or you, are a fan of slides, you’ll need at least two days to explore the largest outdoor waterpark in the country. The Dells is also home to the largest indoor/outdoor combination park and the state’s largest indoor waterpark, among other superlatives. But there’s more to this southern Wisconsin city (that attracts up to 5 million visitors annually), than its chart-topping splash parks. Take a boat tour into the canyon, pet and feed deer at the Wisconsin Deer Park, duck into the shops on Broadway, or hike at nearby Devil’s Lake State Park. Whether you’re looking to ride the “Master Blaster Water Coaster” or simply soak up some scenic views, you won’t want to leave.
Nearby KOAs
Wisconsin Dells KOA Holiday
Katie Jackson is a writer and media specialist based in Montana’s Big Sky Country. Living and working everywhere from New York to Nicaragua, Katie is no stranger to adventure. When she’s not traveling the world (or writing about it!) she’s busy chasing after a Leonberger named Zeus. Follow Katie’s travels on Instagram @katietalkstravel.
