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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Lighthouses of Baileys Harbor Segway Tour
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Manitowoc
Experience the only lighthouse Segway tour in the U.S.! Glide through Door County, visiting two lighthouses, range lights, and historic landmarks. Learn about local fishing families, nature preserves, and the area’s history while enjoying a thrilling, scenic adventure on a Segway.
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.
Basswood Island Full Day Tour
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Bayfield
On this journey, you will cross the open water of the west channel to discover the wonders of the quarried Basswood Island. Explore the Fedora shipwreck, hike to Basswood’s brownstone quarry, and spend time swimming and eating lunch on the sand beach.
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.
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!
Paddle Board Rental
Experience: Outdoor
State: Wisconsin
- City: Door County
You will learn it easily with our knowledgeable instructors and beginner boards. The beginner stand-up paddle boards you will use are stable and enjoyable for all ages. Paddleboarding provides an excellent workout and challenges your balance. No skills are necessary to have fun from your first time out.
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.
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!
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!
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!
Cave Point & Whitefish Dunes Kayak Tour
Experience: Outdoor, Tours
State: Wisconsin
- City: Sturgeon Bay
Beat the crowds on this Door County adventure! Kayak sea caves, explore rocky coves, search for a shipwreck, and climb Mt. Baldy for epic views. Enjoy a beach picnic with an optional swim. A limited tour, back by popular demand!
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.