Chicago and Minneapolis get a lot of the love, but they can often be quite pricey to visit. If you’re hankering to see the Midwest for a bit less moolah, check out one of these cities for a memorable experience that won’t break the bank.
Cincinnati, OH
Cincy often flies under the radar, but it has loads of arts, culture, and great food. The Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden, the Cincinnati Art Museum, or the Newport Aquarium in neighboring Kentucky. Then, check out one of the great restaurants or boutiques in the funky, artsy residential neighborhood of Mount Adams.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
This college town, home to the University of Michigan, is quaint, charming, and lots of fun. Start your visit in Kerrytown, the city’s bustling shopping and dining district—if you find yourself there on the weekend, don’t miss the farmers’ market. The Matthaei Botanical Gardens, University of Michigan Museum of Art, and Kelsey Museum of Archaeology are also worth a stop.
Indianapolis, IN
Indiana’s capital city has a variety of unique things to see and do. Most notably, it’s the home of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the world’s largest auto racetrack. Soak up some culture in the eclectic Broad Ripple neighborhood, walk on the wild side at the Indianapolis Zoo, or get in touch with nature at White River State Park.
Milwaukee, WI
Brewery lovers will adore Wisconsin’s largest city, but there are plenty of other attractions and activities to keep everyone occupied. The Milwaukee Art Museum and Milwaukee County Zoo are big draws, along with Discovery World, a science and technology museum. Motorcycle buffs find engine-revving fun at the Harley Davidson Museum, which features an impressive collection of bikes. And for something completely different, the Boerner Botanical Gardens encompasses 11 specialty gardens that you can explore on your own. Or, with a guided tour.
St. Louis, MO
While it is well-known, you can still find great deals on trips to St. Louis. In addition to the famous Gateway Arch and its accompanying museum, there’s the Missouri Botanical Garden, St. Louis Zoo, Missouri History Museum, and the National Blues Museum.