Explore these Exciting Trends throughout the Midwest When Planning Your Summer Road Trip

When it comes to summer getaways, there's something extraordinary about road-tripping through the Midwest. With rolling prairies, sparkling lakes, charming small towns, and endless opportunities for adventure, the heartland of America comes alive during the sunny season. Midwest summer road trips are trending like never before, and 2025 promises a whole new lineup of unforgettable destinations and experiences.

From quaint small towns to thrilling outdoor activities, these ten trends will inspire you to hit the road and explore the Midwest like never before. Pack your bags, grab your favorite road trip playlist, and let's begin the ultimate adventure.

#1 Small Town Exploration

The charm of the Midwest is epitomized by its picturesque small towns. Travelers are skipping the big cities and heading to cozy, off-the-map destinations. Spots like Galena, Illinois, and Park Rapids, Minnesota, present visitors with historic architecture, unique shops, and welcoming cafes.

What to Do:

• Stroll down Galena’s Main Street for boutique shopping and antiques.

• Visit Stillwater, Minnesota, to explore quaint bookstores and savor homemade fudge.

• Experience local life at farmers’ markets, featuring fresh produce and handmade crafts.

  
  

Small towns also bring cultural events into focus, like art walks and local music nights, enriching your road trip experience with heartfelt community energy.

#2 Brewery and Winery Tours

Midwest breweries and wineries are winning hearts (and taste buds). With an explosion of craft beverage options, many are turning their road trips into routes featuring the best sips in the region.

Must-Visit Breweries and Wineries:

• New Glarus Brewing Company in Wisconsin for their famous Spotted Cow beer.

• Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, Missouri, known for its award-winning Norton wines.

• Great River Road Wine Trail, spanning multiple Midwest states, offers flavorful pit stops.

  
  

Pair stunning vineyard views with tastings and craft your itinerary around discovering these homegrown brews and bottles.

#3 Outdoor Adventure Activities

Adventure seekers are leaning into the Midwest's natural beauty with outdoor activities that get their adrenaline pumping or allow them to unwind in scenic surroundings.

Popular Outdoor Destinations:

• Go rock climbing at Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin.

• Kayak along the rivers of the Ozarks.

• Take a biking expedition on the Katy Trail in Missouri, one of the longest rails-to-trails paths in the U.S.

  
  

Nature enthusiasts will find endless satisfaction exploring the region’s pristine landscapes, waterfalls, and trails.

#4 Historical Site Visits

History buffs, rejoice! Midwest road trips offer a chance to immerse yourself in fascinating historical narratives, with sites that bring the past to life.

Historical Highlights:

• Abraham Lincoln’s Home in Springfield, Illinois

• The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri

• Fort Snelling in Minnesota, where you can learn about the Dakota war

  
  

Whether your passion is Civil War history or pioneers traveling west, the Midwest is brimming with stories waiting to be uncovered.

#5 Music Festivals and Concerts

Your Midwest road trip just got louder! Music festivals are popping up across the region, and their diverse lineups are drawing visitors near and far.

Don’t-Miss Events:

• Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the largest music festival in the world

• The Country Fest in North Lawrence, Ohio, showcasing country artists

• Chicago Blues Festival, a celebration of soulful tunes

  
  

Get ready to dance under the stars as the Midwest puts its musical talent on center stage.

#6 Foodie Destinations and Local Cuisine

No road trip is complete without indulging in local flavors, and the Midwest delivers big on delicious dining. Food-focused road trippers are following their noses to iconic restaurants, food trucks, and culinary hot spots.

Taste-Test Worthy Stops:

• Home of deep-dish pizza, Chicago is a must for pizza lovers

• Kansas City for finger-licking barbecue

• Cheese lovers will delight in Wisconsin’s fresh cheese curds and farm-to-table fare

  
  

The region’s culinary creativity satisfies cravings while supporting local businesses.

#7 Lake and River Activities

Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or jump into the action, the Midwest’s lakes and rivers make the perfect road trip destination.

Water Adventures to Try:

• Rent a pontoon on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin

• Go stand-up paddleboarding on the Chain of Lakes in Minnesota

• Embark on a peaceful riverboat cruise along the Mississippi

  
  

Lake life is thriving, and there's no shortage of opportunities to soak up the sun and recharge by the water.

#8 Camping and Glamping Experiences

From rustic camping to luxury glamping, the Midwest has embraced overnight outdoor stays as a top road trip trend.

Best Spots:

• Sleep under the stars at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan

• Glamp in style in a yurt at Starved Rock State Park, Illinois

• Reserve a lakeside cabin in Indiana Dunes National Park

  
  

Disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature on an unforgettable overnight adventure.

#9 Art and Cultural Festivals

Road trippers are chasing arts and culture across the Midwest by timing their travels with vibrant festivals.

Cultural Experiences to Consider:

• Explore hundreds of stands during Iowa City’s Arts Festival.

• Marvel at sculptures at Kansas City’s Plaza Art Fair.

• Celebrate diversity at Detroit’s World Music Festival.

  
  

These one-of-a-kind events highlight the creativity that drives communities in the Midwest.

#10 Agritourism and Farm Visits

Agritourism is grounding travelers in authentic farm life experiences, connecting them directly with the land and its produce.

Farm Experiences:

• Apple picking at Michigan’s Blake Farms

• Touring dairy farms in Wisconsin

• Seasonal berry picking in Indiana

  
  

You’ll leave these experiences not just with bags of fresh produce but with cherished memories of warm-hearted rural Americana.

#11 | BONUS! On the Cover

Marblehead Lighthouse

No Midwest road trip is complete without a stop at the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse in Ohio! Standing tall along the scenic shores of Lake Erie, this historic gem is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes, dating back to 1822. Visitors can climb to the top for jaw-dropping views of the lake, nearby islands, and the mesmerizing horizon. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Marblehead Lighthouse offers a blend of natural beauty and fascinating stories from the past. Don’t forget to explore the charming nearby town for local eats and souvenirs—it’s a must-visit destination for your 2025 summer adventure!

Your Summer Adventure Starts with these Midwest Road Trip Trends

The Midwest is more than just a region; it’s a road trip paradise waiting to be explored. With so many trending destinations and activities, there’s something for every kind of traveler this summer. Whether it’s sipping craft beer, hiking along breathtaking trails, or immersing yourself in local culture, your perfect adventure is just a drive away.

Don’t overthink it. Pack your bags, chart your course, and set off to discover what makes Midwest road-trips so special.

Happy travels!