Top Family Vacation Destinations in the Midwest

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The Best Midwest Vacation Spots for Families: From Lakeside Fun to Outdoor Adventure

When it comes to planning a family vacation, the Midwest might not be the first region that pops into your head—but maybe it should be. Think charming small towns, big lakes, outdoor adventures, and tons of kid-friendly attractions without the crowds (and price tags) of bigger-name destinations.

Some of the best family vacation destinations in the Midwest are hidden gems, whereas others are longtime favorites. Whether you’re road-tripping or flying in, here are some of the best Midwest vacation spots that families will love—plus recommendations for where to stay while you’re there.

1. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin– One of the most popular family vacation destinations in the Midwest

Why It’s Great: Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” this is the place to go if your kids are water slide fanatics. It’s packed with amusement parks, indoor and outdoor water parks, and quirky attractions like duck boat tours and magic shows. It’s also on my list of top 4th of July destinations.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Noah’s Ark Waterpark – America’s largest waterpark with tons of slides and attractions.
• Wizard Quest – Interactive fantasy-themed adventure great for curious kids.
• Tommy Bartlett Exploratory – Hands-on science museum with over 175 interactive exhibits.
• Dells Boat Tours – Scenic river tours through the iconic sandstone formations.
• Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park – Combines roller coasters and water rides.

Where to Stay:

• Great Wolf Lodge – Perfect for younger children, this resort offers an indoor water park, themed suites, and interactive games like MagiQuest.​
• Kalahari Resort – Home to Wisconsin’s largest indoor water park at 125,000 square feet, Kalahari boasts an African-themed ambiance, diverse dining options, and an expansive indoor theme park, ensuring entertainment for the entire family. ​
• Natura Treescape Resort – For families seeking a blend of nature and comfort, Natura offers unique accommodations like treehouses and tiny houses. Guests can enjoy a natural lagoon, indoor pool, and complimentary access to Land of Natura and Timbavati Wildlife Park.
• Wilderness Resort – Spanning 600 acres, Wilderness is America’s largest waterpark resort, featuring four indoor and four outdoor water parks, mega arcades, an 18-hole golf course, and a variety of lodging options, from hotel rooms to luxurious cabins.
• Yogi Bear’s Jellystone Park Camp-Resort – A delightful campground featuring themed weekends, water attractions, and cozy cabins, making it an excellent choice for families wanting a camping experience with added amenities.

2. Mackinac Island, Michigan

Why It’s Great: A step back in time! No cars, just bikes and horse-drawn carriages. Explore forts, fudge shops, and trails with sweeping views of Lake Huron.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Carriage Tours – Explore the island the old-fashioned way with a narrated horse-drawn ride.
• Fort Mackinac – Living history museum with costumed interpreters and cannon firings.
• Biking the Island Loop – Rent bikes and ride the 8.2-mile trail around the island.
• The Butterfly House – Walk among hundreds of free-flying butterflies.
• Fudge Shops – A sweet treat! Kids love sampling and watching it being made.

Where to Stay:

• Mission Point Resort – Family-friendly with lawn games, movie nights, and a kids’ club.
• Island House Hotel – Historic charm with an indoor pool and walkable access to downtown.
• Camping at Straits State Park (St. Ignace) – Just across the bridge from the island, it’s a peaceful spot for families who love to camp, with great lake views.

3. Branson, Missouri

Why It’s Great: It’s like a Midwest version of Nashville with a splash of theme park fun. Between Silver Dollar City, live music shows, and Table Rock Lake, there’s a ton to do for all ages. It’s a great family vacation destination in the Midwest, and it’s actually on my North America family travel bucket list as well.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Silver Dollar City – A top-tier theme park with rides, crafts, and shows.
• Branson’s Wild World – Hands-on animal encounters and aquatic creatures.
• Showboat Branson Belle – Dinner cruise with live entertainment on Table Rock Lake.
• Aquarium at the Boardwalk – Ocean-themed fun right in the Ozarks.
• Dolly Parton’s Stampede – Dinner show with horses, stunts, and family-friendly comedy.

Check out these Branson hotels with waterparks to really take your family vacation to the next level.

Where to Stay:

• Big Cedar Lodge – A top-notch family resort with pools, nature activities, a kids’ adventure club, and even a bowling alley. It’s one of the most beautiful resorts in the Ozarks.
• Still Waters Resort – Lakefront with pools, waterslides, free kayaks, and roomy condos.
• Camping at Table Rock State Park – A beautiful spot for families who want to combine camping with lake days and hiking.

4. Door County, Wisconsin

Why It’s One of the Best Family Vacation Destinations in the Midwest: A laid-back peninsula packed with charming towns, cherry orchards, beaches, lighthouses, and state parks. It’s especially lovely in summer and fall.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Peninsula State Park – Hiking, biking, and scenic overlooks.
• Cherry Picking (in season) – Hands-on fun during summer.
• Fish Boils – Traditional Door County experience with dramatic flames and storytelling.
• Washington Island Ferry & Schoolhouse Beach – Crystal-clear waters and a rock beach.
• Hands On Art Studio – Paint-your-own pottery and other creative activities.

Where to Stay:

• The Landmark Resort (Egg Harbor) – Condo-style rooms with kitchenettes and indoor/outdoor pools.
• Edgewater Resort (Ephraim) – Waterfront views, cozy suites, and walkability to town.
• The Landing Resort (Egg Harbor) – Indoor pool, game room, and kitchenettes in the suites.
• Camping at Peninsula State Park – One of Wisconsin’s most popular parks with family-friendly campsites, a beach, and bike rentals.

5. Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota

Why It’s Great: Twin Cities = double the fun. Check out the massive Mall of America (complete with an amusement park), the Science Museum of Minnesota, and lots of green spaces for outdoor play. You’ll see why kids choose this as one of the best family vacation destinations in the midwest.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Minnesota Children’s Museum – Super interactive exhibits.
• Science Museum of Minnesota – Dino skeletons, giant experiments, and hands-on fun.
• Como Park Zoo & Conservatory – Free (donations encouraged), with a zoo, gardens, and rides.
• Minnehaha Falls – Easy hike to a stunning waterfall.
• Mall of America – Beyond shopping: Nickelodeon Universe, SEA LIFE Aquarium, and more.

Where to Stay:

• Radisson Blu at Mall of America – Connected right to the mall, super convenient if you’re planning to explore the attractions inside.
• Canopy by Hilton Minneapolis Mill District – Stylish rooms and close to parks and attractions.
• Camping at Lebanon Hills Campground (Eagan) – Close to the action but tucked in the woods, perfect for a nature-urban balance.

6. The Black Hills, South Dakota– One of the best historical family vacation destinations in the midwest

Why It’s Great: Think Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park, and the Crazy Horse Memorial—all packed into one scenic region. There’s hiking, wildlife, caves, and history around every bend.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Mount Rushmore National Memorial – Iconic and educational.
• Custer State Park – Wildlife loop, buffalo sightings, and scenic drives.
• Reptile Gardens – Exotic animals, giant tortoises, and shows.
• 1880 Train (Hill City to Keystone) – A steam train through the Black Hills.
• Mammoth Site (Hot Springs) – Real fossil excavation site kids can explore.

Where to Stay:

• K Bar S Lodge (Keystone) – Just minutes from Mount Rushmore, with beautiful views and spacious rooms.
• State Game Lodge (Custer State Park) – Historic lodge with cabins and wildlife viewing right outside.
• Camping at Rafter J Bar Ranch Campground (Hill City) – An excellent basecamp with pools, playgrounds, and plenty of shade.

7. Hocking Hills, Ohio

Why It’s Great: If your crew is into hiking and waterfalls, this is your place. The scenery is seriously magical, with caves, cliffs, and lush forests.

Top Attractions for Families:

• Old Man’s Cave – Kid-friendly hiking through stunning rock formations.
• Ash Cave – Easy access and beautiful waterfall; great for younger kids.
• Hocking Hills Canopy Tours – Ziplining through forest for the adventurous.
• John Glenn Astronomy Park – Stargazing and astronomy talks.
• Canoeing on the Hocking River – Peaceful and perfect for families with older kids.

Where to Stay:

• Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls – Family cottages and yurts near the trails, with an on-site restaurant and peaceful vibes.
• Hocking Hills State Park Lodge – Newly renovated with a pool, restaurant, and trail access.
• Camping at Hocking Hills State Park Campground – Clean and scenic, with easy access to the park’s main trails.

Final Tips for These Midwest Family Vacation Destinations:

• Bring layers—the weather can change quickly, especially near lakes or in the hills.
• Book early during summer and fall, which are peak seasons for many of these spots.
• Pack snacks—because road-tripping is half the fun in the Midwest!

So next time you’re looking to plan a family getaway that’s full of charm, nature, and plenty of activities for the kids, look to the Midwest! These destinations prove that there’s a lot more fun to be had away from the coasts.

Do you have a favorite Midwest family destination that I missed? Drop it in the comments—I’m always looking for new gems to explore!

Check out my other popular posts for more family travel inspiration:

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• Water Park Hotels in Green Bay
• Top Family Resorts in Minnesota
• Fun Things to do in Kansas City
• Pigeon Forge Water Park Hotels
• Best Family Hotels in Gatlinburg, TN

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