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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Splatter Paint Party
Experience: Entertainment
State: Nebraska
- City: Omaha
Throw a colorful splatter paint party for up to 15 guests! Enjoy 90 minutes in a private room, 50 minutes of paint fun, and take home a 16×20 canvas. Ages 3+. $400 Mon–Thurs, $500 Fri–Sun. Includes supplies and setup. Add pizza + soda for $50!
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!
Sea Caves Full Day Tour
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Bayfield
Explore all the famous Mainland Sea Caves and cliffs from Meyers Beach. This tour is for those looking to spend more time exploring the sea caves in their entirety. Simply meet your guide at our store in Bayfield at the trip’s start time, and we’ll take it from there!
Photo Safari Green Bay Segway Glide
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Green Bay
Join a guided Segway photo tour through downtown Green Bay and along the Fox River every Wednesday at 4pm! Explore historic sites, scenic parks, and hidden gems while capturing great shots. Includes Segway, training, guide, and bottled water.
Lily Pad
Experience: Outdoor
State: Minnesota
- City: Big Fork
The Aqua Lily Pad is the ultimate water playground for the entire family. It’s a floating foam island that is safe and lightweight. Allow your kids, friends, and family to play, run, or relax on this fun water toy!
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!
6 Hour Canoe or Kayak Trip
Experience: Entertainment, Outdoor
State: Nebraska
- City: Sparks
Launch into the gentle Niobrara River for a scenic float past cliffs, forests, meadows, and waterfalls. Perfect for all skill levels, with mild rapids and wildlife sightings like deer and eagles. Navigate small obstacles and soak in the natural beauty along the way.
1.5 Hours - Private Paint Class (Choice of Design)
Experience: Workshops
State: Iowa
- City: Des Moines
Book a private group paint class with all supplies included – canvas, paint, brushes, aprons, and virtual guided instruction. Perfect for parties, date nights, kids, adults, or corporate events. Enjoy your own space with room to store snacks and drinks!
Evening Boat Rentals (Fireworks)
Experience: Entertainment, Outdoor
State: Illinois
- City: Chicago
Cruise the Chicago River for 2 hours, enjoying stunning views and the famous Navy Pier fireworks (Wednesdays at 9:30 PM, Saturdays at 10:15 PM). Bring your own speaker, snacks, or BYOB. Gas-powered, easy-to-drive boats with life jackets provided. Available Wednesday and Saturday nights, Memorial Day to Labor Day.
Wine, Charcuterie, and Bingo Tour
Experience: Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Ellison Bay
Savor local wines and charcuterie on a fun-filled tour featuring bingo games, blending gourmet flavors with playful entertainment for an unforgettable experience.
NEON Mini Golf @ Merle Hay Mall
Experience: Entertainment
State: Iowa
- City: Des Moines
Enjoy glow-in-the-dark mini golf at Merle Hay Mall with 9 or 18 holes, putter, neon ball, and scorecard included! Pair it with a $25 splatter paint experience—splatter canvases, walls, and each other for a full hour of colorful fun. Book separately for both!