The midwest is the heart of the United States — both figuratively and literally. For both work conferences, concerts, and to see friends, I’ve found myself in Chicago several times in the past year. With the help of Chicago natives, I found the best deep dish pizza (and then texted my New Yorker friends all about it), explored the coolest art museums, and fell in love with the midwest culture: gritty and down to earth, but filled with eagerness and charm. I even took the train to Milwaukee, where I met the nicest people and found a charcuterie board that could rival any other.
But there are plenty of hidden gems in the midwest (outside of the glamour of Chicago) that are worth road-tripping to. Here are a few unique destinations in the midwest, according to three Her Campus chapters in the region, that are worth checking out. And you won’t want to miss out — from Iowa to Michigan to Illinois, there’s so much to explore. Pack your bags, baby. Let’s hit up the midwest.
- Davenport, IA: Take a walk through Vander veer.
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“Check out Vander Veer, a 33-acre botanical park full of nature and beauty. Check out the flowers and various other plants, and sit by the fountain or lagoon and enjoy a snack. There are lots of opportunities to get amazing photos. The best part is the botanicals in the conservatory!” – Her Campus at St. Ambrose University
- East Lansing, MI: Visit Constellation Cat Cafe.
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“Enjoy seasonal drinks and a cute shop all while being able to destress with a room full of cats!” – Her Campus at Michigan State University
- Champaign, IL: Check out the cherry blossom trees at the Japan House.
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“The Cherry Blossom trees only blossom for a short period of a time (end of March into April), and they’re a great way to kick off the spring season!” – Her Campus at Illinois
