There is perhaps no season more synonymous with scenic drives than the fall – and maybe no better way to explore America’s heartland than to hop in the car and head out for an unscripted adventure. Around every twist and turn, you’re bound to find stunning natural scenery, charming communities, friendly Midwest hospitality, and plenty of things to see and do. If you’re looking for epic Midwest vacation ideas that combine fun adventure and picturesque scenery this fall, consider taking one or more of these scenic drives across the Midwest.
Fall is one of our favorite seasons to explore the beauty and charm of Midwestern states like Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Michigan, and Nebraska. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves and the crisp autumn air make it an ideal season to pack a bag and hit the road with your sweetheart – or maybe even for a solo adventure. Whether you’re meandering along the Great River Road in Wisconsin or taking in the rugged cliffs of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, these Midwest vacation ideas will take you to breathtaking views that highlight the best of the region.
Though following these winding roads, dotted with small towns and historic landmarks, is a memorable way to enjoy a Midwest getaway, there is so much more to do here during the fall. For example, hiking and biking enthusiasts will find the Midwest an absolute delight in the fall. Trails through Minnesota’s North Shore or Illinois’ Starved Rock State Park provide opportunities to immerse yourself in the vibrant foliage. In contrast, rides through Iowa’s rolling hills or Nebraska’s scenic byways provide a more leisurely adventure. Fall also brings a variety of lively festivals to towns across the Midwest, celebrating everything from the harvest to local arts and crafts. These events provide a great way to experience local culture, taste regional delicacies, and even pick up unique souvenirs. Pair your scenic drives with stops at these vibrant festivals to make the most of your fall vacation in the Midwest.
When it comes to finding the best places to stay, the Midwest Association of Independent Inns offers an array of options, from charming bed and breakfasts to upscale boutique hotels. These accommodations provide a cozy and welcoming atmosphere that complements your fall adventure. Whether you are looking for a historic inn in Illinois or a lakeside bed and breakfast in Wisconsin, you’ll find the perfect spot to relax after a day of exploring. These independently owned Inns offer unparalleled, personalized hospitality, all in convenient and safe locations. They are the perfect alternative to big (and boring) hotel chains. Book your stay at one of these unique properties, and make the most of our Midwest vacation ideas this fall!
Midwest Vacation Ideas: The Best Scenic Fall Drives
Many people consider middle America to be flyover country as they go from one coast to the other, or perhaps on to other adventures. The Midwest offers something special for every traveler, though, and this fall is a great time to stop and experience the best of it. If you’re looking for fantastic Midwest vacation ideas to enjoy this fall, consider taking one (or more) scenic drives across these diverse states.
From storied highways and byways like Route 66 or The Great River Road to quiet, winding roads through the rural countryside, there are countless scenic drives to enjoy in the Midwest. These drives are beautiful any time of year, but in the fall, they offer a welcome opportunity to enjoy the vibrant colors and unique landscapes each state has.
Below, we’ve listed ten of the best scenic drives across the Midwest. These drives are as varied as they are beautiful, but they all have one thing in common: showcasing the natural beauty and attractions of Wisconsin, Minnesota, Iowa, Illinois, Nebraska, and Michigan.
- Of all the gorgeous Midwest road trips we’re talking about this year, perhaps none is more iconic than the Great River Road. Stretching from the headwaters at Itasca State Park in Minnesota south to the Gulf of Mexico, the Great River Road twists and turns along the Mississippi River in a truly breathtaking road trip. This beautiful road encompasses everything we love about Midwest vacation ideas: rolling bluffs, small towns, plenty of great wineries, parks, and attractions, incredible bird and wildlife watching, and stunning vistas looking over the river. It’s particularly breathtaking as the leaves change color each fall. There are segments of the Great River Road to enjoy in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois, and more.
- Enjoy classic views of Lake Superior alight in fall colors as you drive along the North Shore Scenic Drive in Minnesota. This epic road trip starts in the popular northern town of Duluth, then continues along the shore up to Grand Portage and through some of Minnesota’s most beautiful and rugged wilderness. This drive is famous for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and forested landscapes. You can hike in state parks like Gooseberry Falls and photograph the famous Split Rock Lighthouse.
- In northern Wisconsin, don’t miss the Door County Coastal Byway. This drive covers 66 miles along Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula, from Sturgeon Bay to the tip at Gills Rock. The Door County Coastal Byway is famous for its coastal views, orchards, and charming villages like Fish Creek and Ephraim. In the fall, the peninsula’s forests turn brilliant shades of red and gold, making it a perfect time for apple picking, winery tours, and exploring the local arts scene.
- If you’re looking for Midwest vacation ideas that involve plenty of wide open spaces, head to the Loess Hills Scenic Byway in western Iowa. Stretching for over 200 miles along the western edge of Iowa, the Loess Hills Scenic Byway offers a glimpse into one of the most unique landscapes in the Midwest. The rolling hills and prairies are lovely in the fall, with the golden grasses blowing gently in the wind. The drive includes stops at overlooks, nature reserves, and small towns like Council Bluffs, where you can explore local history and art.
- Another great road trip through America’s agricultural heartland is the Lincoln Highway, which starts in Nebraska and stretches into Iowa and Illinois. This is the only highway that traverses the entire state of Nebraska, offering you an unprecedented opportunity to immerse yourself in local communities this fall.
- If you’re looking for Midwest vacation ideas that involve watching millions of birds migrate, the Great River Road isn’t your only option this fall. We also recommend the sensational Sandhills Journey Scenic Byway in Nebraska, which is a beautiful drive through the North American Central Flyway. Birds, historic and charming towns, meandering rivers, and expansive plains dominate this landscape and paint an awe-inspiring picture of this remarkable Midwestern state.
- If you find yourself searching for Midwest vacation ideas to enjoy in Michigan this fall, don’t miss a scenic drive on the M-22. Following the Lake Michigan shoreline from Manistee to Traverse City, the M-22 Scenic Drive is one of Michigan’s most iconic routes. This drive offers stunning views of the lake and access to attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and the charming towns of Glen Arbor and Leland. In the fall, the forests along the route are alive with color, and you can enjoy activities like wine tasting and hiking through the dunes.
- Another stunning fall drive in Michigan is the Tunnel of Trees (M-119). Located in the northern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, the Tunnel of Trees is a narrow, winding road that offers a unique driving experience. Starting in Harbor Springs and ending in Cross Village, this drive is especially stunning in the fall when the tree canopy overhead is ablaze with color. Along the way, you can stop at historic sites like the Good Hart General Store and enjoy the view from the Sturgeon Bay lookout.
These scenic drives are perfect for anyone looking for Midwest vacation ideas this fall. If you’re looking for even more off-the-beaten-path adventures and even a few smaller (and less crowded) drives to take this fall, here are a few more to consider:
- A covered bridge tour in Parke County, Indiana
- Apple Blossom Scenic Byway in Minnesota
- Grand Rounds Scenic Byway in Minnesota
- Driftless Area Scenic Byway in Iowa
- Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive in Wisconsin
- The Lake Superior Circle Tour through Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Ontario
Each route offers something unique, making them some of the best scenic drives in the Midwest. Whether planning a short weekend trip or a longer getaway, these drives will showcase the region’s fall splendor in all its glory.
The Best Places to Stay in the Midwest
These scenic drives are just the start of great Midwest vacation ideas this fall. From epic drives and invigorating outdoor adventures to delicious wine-tasting adventures and small-town festivals, there’s no shortage of things to do in the Midwest this fall. Wherever your travel plans take you this far, only one lodging group offers the best places to stay in the Midwest: The Midwest Association of Independent Inns.
Our unique lodging properties showcase the best of the Midwest, with exceptional accommodations, authentic and friendly hospitality, top-notch amenities, and locations near many of the top drives and activities across the Midwest. Whether planning a brief visit or an extended stay, our associated lodging partners offer the perfect place to relax, unwind, and embrace the best of fall in the Midwest.
Midwest Inns is a collection of boutique hotels, Inns, Bed and Breakfasts, cabins, and vacation rentals. We represent properties in Nebraska, Iowa, Illinois, Minnesota, and Wisconsin, which means that wherever you travel, you’ll find dedicated innkeepers who excel at offering top-tier lodging and accommodations. Our properties are far from what you’d experience at modern hotel chains and larger properties. Not only do we offer a more personalized and unique place to stay than traditional hotels, but we also offer a welcome alternative to unregulated and impersonal vacation rental properties.
Each association member is properly licensed and inspected, offering peace of mind for your fall weekend getaways in the Midwest. From urban guest rooms to rural farm stays, our members provide the best places to stay in the Midwest. Get ready for an unforgettable fall adventure, and book your stay at one of our properties today!
