3 Charming Cities in the Midwest

When planning your next family vacation, consider one of these charming destinations in the Midwest.

© Columbia CVB

Columbia, Missouri

Located in the heart of Missouri, Columbia offers something for everyone. The city is home to University of Missouri and boasts plenty of school spirit, especially during football season tailgates. Columbia hosts numerous annual festivals, including the True/False Film Festival, Roots N’ Blues Festival, Unbound Book Festival and Art in the Park. With 70 city parks and 50 miles of trails, the city offers a variety of outdoor adventures. Columbia’s culinary scene features everything from barbecue to innovative fine dining.

© Hamilton County Tourism, Inc.

Hamilton County, Indiana

Hamilton County’s flourishing art scene features goods from local artisans in the county’s individual cities. For multigenerational travelers, Hamilton County offers activities including cultural attractions, history lessons at Conner Prairie and kayaking opportunities on the White River. Foodies have plenty of unique dining options. Be sure to stop at many of the year-round farmers markets. A visit to Hamilton County isn’t complete without sampling the area’s famous Hoosier breaded pork tenderloin sandwich.

© VISIT Milwaukee

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

This city is located where three rivers (Milwaukee, Menomonee and Kinnickinnic) flow into Lake Michigan. There are plenty of aquatic activities available in Milwaukee, including sightseeing boat cruises, kayaking, ice skating and strolling along Milwaukee Riverwalk. Attend one of the city’s many annual festivals, including Mexican Fiesta, Irish Fest and Black Arts Fest MKE. Visit Bronzeville, the heart of the city’s Black community. This neighborhood is home to the newly reopened America’s Black Holocaust Museum. Explore the city’s culinary scene. Parkside 22 is Wisconsin’s only restaurant with an on-site farm. Head to the James Beard award-winning Ardent for cutting-edge cuisine.