Midwest road-trip destinations for your Spring break
The U.S. is home to so many beautiful landscapes and climates to visit - but we are bringing you some road-trip inspo from our home territory, the Midwest. No matter which family-friendly destination you choose, your spring break will be one to remember!
Minneapolis, Minnesota:
Though it gets a bad rap due to frigid temps and heavy snow, trust us: Minneapolis is spring-break-worthy. Avoid the crowds of the warmer months and take in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden with its iconic spoon bridge; open 365 days a year and always free. This half of the “Twin Cities,” a moniker shared with St. Paul, is known for its food scene, with a variety of restaurants, breweries, and food trucks for you to dive into local selections during your stay. Minneapolis is not shy about its spots on “best of” lists both for shopping (um hello…Mall of America) and stadiums (lookin’ at you Target Field). Whether your family wants to take in a game, explore a vibrant art scene, shop-til-they-drop, or all of the above, there’s no better time to meet Minneapolis!
Photo courtesy of Meet Minneapolis
Milwaukee, Wisconsin:
Don’t let the cool temps deter you, the lakeside city of Milwaukee has already started to thaw by mid-March. Aside from sprawling parks and trails, you can also indulge your interests, from art and history to sporting events. Sample iconic frozen custard (they take it very seriously up here) before taking in a Brewer’s game or see the city while exploring its many free art installations. The Harley-Davidson Museum and Milwaukee Public Market are can’t-miss experiences with something for every member of your Spring Break crew. We can’t chat Milwaukee without mentioning the brewing scene! Download the Brew City Beer Pass to find breweries, taprooms, and beer attractions no matter where your trip takes you.
Photo Courtsey of Visit Milwaukee
Detroit, Michigan:
Talk about a glow-up…the Motor City has made moves over the past years to out carve a legacy of an enjoyable, walkable downtown experience. It’s packed with family-friendly attractions like the Detroit Riverfront (with over three miles of walkable/bikeable trails!), the brand new Little Caesars Arena - home to the Detroit Pistons basketball and Redwings hockey teams, the Detroit Institute of Arts, and plenty of cultural neighborhoods complete with Polish, Mexican, and Italian restaurants to enjoy. Save time in your itinerary for a visit to the esteemed Henry Ford Museum, now home to the famous Rosa Parks bus.
Photo Courtesy of Visit Detroit
St. Louis, Missouri:
When you think St. Louis, scientific and cultural exploration may not come to mind, but both are abundant here. The Science Center offers exhibits on everything from dinosaurs and a planetarium to geological wonders and even virtual reality! Feed the pickiest (or even most refined) palettes with a variety of barbecue for which the city is known. Don’t miss this chance to take in a performance or tour at the aptly named Fabulous Fox Theatre (Psst: Hamilton returns to the stage August 28!). Take advantage of sunnier days at the Missouri Botanical Garden or 1,300-acre Forest Park, which is also home to five cultural institutions, including the St. Louis Zoo and Art Museum. Honestly, you could spend the entire vacay there!
Photo courtesy of the Explore St. Louis
Indianapolis, Indiana:
Ok, so we might be a little biased about our home base, but Indy really should be a stop on your spring break road trip! We’ve got some pretty big deal spots like the Children's Museum of Indianapolis (the largest in the world)or the Indianapolis Motor Speedway Museum, and there is no better time to visit the Indianapolis Zoo! Stroll the iconic Mass Ave. for bespoke eateries, distilleries, and local shops like 3 Dog Bakery or our fave, Silver in the City. Rent a Pacer bike and cruise the canal, or snag a ticket to tour the Avenue with Indy royalty, Sampson Levingston. There really is no wrong way to do spring in the Circle City, and we’ve just scratched the surface with these recs.
Photo courtesy of Visit Indy
With a little planning and this fab guide, you’ll be ready hit the Midwest roads this Spring break. So, where ya going?
Looking for even more Midwest travel chat? Watch theCityMoms on Living Local!
