If you’re planning a springtime vacation with your family or your significant other, there are plenty of places right here in the midwest that offer plenty of amazing sights and activities. Below are five of the best springtime vacation spots in the midwest for you to review and consider for your next vacation. 

#1 – Door County, Wisconsin

Door County is known for its snowy activities throughout the winter, but when spring finally rolls around and the crowds return home, there’s still plenty to see and do. Door County offers everything from old-fashioned sleigh rides to ice skating and more, and in the event of rain, there are art studios, maritime museums, and even indoor playhouses for the kids to enjoy. 

#2 – Indianapolis, Indiana 

Indiana may be the last place that comes to mind when you think about fun-filled vacations, but Indianapolis is worlds apart from corn fields and dairy farms. In fact, Indianapolis is home to the world’s largest children’s museum, which offers dozens of fun hands-on activities for kids of all ages – including adults who are still kids at heart! You can also visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the Indy Zoo, and the Indiana Capitol Building while you’re there. 

#3 – St. Louis, Missouri

If you want to take a family vacation that won’t completely break the bank, St. Louis is by far the best midwestern destination. Most of the excitement you’ll find in St. Louis is completely free, including a trip up to the top of the famed Gateway Arch! There are numerous hotels and attractions all across the city, and there are plenty of restaurants, too. If you prefer spending your time outdoors in one of the many St. Louis parks, be sure to try one or more of the food trucks that make their way across the city during the day. 

#4 – Shawnee National Forest (Illinois) 

Shawnee National Forest is a treasure trove located in Herod, Illinois that every family should visit at least once. In fact, it’s a very popular field trip destination for parents who opt to homeschool their children, but there’s plenty for everyone to see and do. There’s the famed Rim Rock National Recreation Trail that you can hike, caves to explore, and even the Garden of the Gods! It’s a history lesson and a nature lesson all wrapped up into one. 

#5 – Chicago, Illinois

If you’ve always wanted to vacation in the Windy City, springtime is the perfect time of year to do it. There’s so much to see and do throughout Chicago that it’s virtually impossible to get bored. There’s the Skydeck at Willis Tower, the famed Shedd Aquarium, and even Lincoln Park Zoo – all of which are perfect for adults and children alike. You can even find one-of-a-kind restaurants such as Garrett’s Popcorn and the Wildberry Cafe. There’s something new around every corner in Chicago, so be sure to spend some time checking it out. 

The midwestern US offers plenty of excitement and adventure for your next family vacation. Whether you prefer to visit zoos and aquariums with the kids or you want a romantic getaway with a special someone, any of these five midwest destinations is perfect for you.