Unique Experiences in the MidWest
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Looking for the best food or themed tours in the Midwest? The Midwest Association of Independent Inns makes it easy. Our Tour Activities page highlights a variety of culinary and specialty tours across the region. From farm-to-table dining and food tastings to historic walking tours and scenic wine trails, you’ll find unique experiences near each our lodging properties.
Whether you crave gourmet meals, artisan markets, or a deeper look into local culture, these curated tours let you explore like a local. It’s the perfect way to turn your stay into a memorable adventure filled with flavor, fun, and discovery.
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Gel Blaster and Airsoft Target Range
Experience: Entertainment
State: Wisconsin
- City: Appleton
De-stress with a thrilling indoor gel blaster/airsoft session in a zombie-themed shooting area! Hit 10 digital targets solo or with friends. Ages 10+. Includes gear, ammo, and game options. Add a flash drive to capture the action! Wear long sleeves!
Scenic Train Ride
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Wisconsin Dells
Take a scenic 2-mile train ride along the Wisconsin River, spotting wildlife and unique rock formations. Enjoy food, yard games, and a gift shop at Hyde Park Station while watching steam trains. A fun, family-friendly experience at the Riverside & Great Northern.
1-Hour Splatter Room Session
Experience: Entertainment
State: Iowa
- City: Des Moines
Get messy and creative in our splatter room! Enjoy painting on canvas (and everywhere else), with optional glow-in-the-dark fun. Includes take-home canvas, safe skin paint, goggles, and disposable coveralls. Great for sharing time with friends or loved ones!
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Historic Park Inn and City National Bank Tour
Experience: Tours
State: Iowa
- City: Mason City
Step back in time on a 1-hour guided tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Historic Park Inn. Discover its rich history, unique design, and stunning restoration. Tours run Wed–Sun with highlights like the Skylight Room, art glass panels, and Wright’s architectural legacy.
Slow Stitch: Hand Sewing Basics
Experience: Workshops
State: Minnesota
- City: Minneapolis
It all begins with a single stitch. Long before there were machines to assist, our hands did all the work! The workshop covers the most valuable and most basic techniques of sewing. Students will learn 5 to 6 fundamental stitches, how to securely sew on a button and snap, seams and edge finishing, various decorative stitches, and more.
6 Hour Tubing Trip
Experience: Entertainment, Outdoor
State: Nebraska
- City: Sparks
Paddle the scenic Niobrara River by canoe, kayak, or tube—perfect for all skill levels. Enjoy gentle rapids, waterfalls, cliffs, forests, and wildlife. Rates include gear, shuttle from Sparks, and all fees. Alcohol allowed only from Berry Bridge downriver.
Spoon Carving - Just Getting Started
Experience: Workshops
State: Illinois
- City: Galena
Learn the basics of spoon carving in this 3-hour hands-on workshop! Using just three tools, you’ll carve your own wooden spoon, gain essential skills, and leave with the confidence to keep carving. Includes materials, tools, and expert instruction—and possibly a few well-earned blisters!
Best Double Decker Pontoon w/ Water Slide
Experience: Outdoor
State: Minnesota
- City: Big Fork
Check out our NEW 17 passenger Double Decker Pontoon with water slide off the back! This boat is sure to have your family and friends jumping for joy. Delivery is required and we deliver to most lakes in the surrounding area. Select your lake in the checkout form and we be in touch with the details!
Axe Throwing Party
Experience: Entertainment
State: Nebraska
- City: Omaha
Host a private axe-throwing party for up to 15 guests! Enjoy 90 minutes of fun, including a 60-min axe session, party room, and supplies. Ages 13+. $200 Mon–Thurs, $300 Fri–Sun. Add a pizza + soda for $50. Perfect for birthdays, friends, or just because!
1.5 Hour Fly Hovercraft
Experience: Entertainment
State: Iowa
- City: Le Claire
Experience 360 spins, backwards flight, side slides and much more. Feel free to take a picture before the ride either in the cockpit or in front of the hovercraft. This experience is perfect for passengers of all ages.
Chicago in a Day: Food and Architecture Private Walking Tour
Experience: Entertainment, Tours
State: Illinois
- City: Chicago
Experience Chicago with a combo tour: explore iconic architecture, Millennium Park, and the Chicago River, then dive into the city’s food scene. Sample local treats, learn about deep-dish pizza, sandwiches, and hot dogs, and discover the chefs behind Chicago’s food culture.
Downtown Madison Tour
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Madison
Discover Madison by eBike on a 2-hour guided tour through vibrant neighborhoods, lakeshores, and iconic landmarks. Includes helmet, water, and training. Ages 14+, basic bike ability required. Book early—our most popular tour fills fast!