American’s heartland contains a wealth of treasures that will keep travelers entertained as they make their way through the Midwest. And, if your itinerary takes you through Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Ohio and Oklahoma, you don’t want to miss these destinations.
Enjoy Chicago’s North Side
As a suburb just north of Chicago, Schaumburg, Illinois, contains plenty of noteworthy sites and attractions all of its own. Catch a minor league baseball game with the Schaumburg Boomers or explore the architecture of Paul Schweikher at his home and studio, which was built between 1937 and 1938. For a fun way to explore this city, grab your bike and hit the Schaumburg Bicycle Program, which boasts nearly 90 miles of bike paths. When it comes to lodging in Schaumburg, you’ll find a great collection of budget-friendly hotels that are sure to meet your needs.
Courtesy of Visit Fort Wayne
Bring the Family
Indiana’s second-largest city, Fort Wayne, welcomes families to come, play and stay for a great family vacation. Who wouldn’t love spending a day with the animals at the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, one of the top 10 children’s zoos in the nation, or cheering on the TinCaps during a minor league baseball game? Of course, you also could visit Science Central, an interactive children’s museum, the Botanical Conservatory, and the Museum of Art. After a day of fun, return to one of the many hotels in Fort Wayne to rest and recharge.
Explore the Great Outdoors
Just 20 minutes from Detroit, Troy, Michigan, invites visitors to get outside and play for a while. With 900 acres of parklands, you’ll have plenty of green space where you can roam. For instance, at the Lloyd A. Stage Nature Center, there are four nature trails you can take to discover some of the natural beauty in this gorgeous state. Troy also features two golf courses – Sylvan Glen and Sanctuary Lake – where you can perfect your putt. When it’s time to choose your accommodations in Troy, you can pick from intimate bed-and-breakfasts, full-service resorts, and even vacation rental homes, as well as traditional hotels and motels.
Aerial view of the downtown Cincinnati riverfront by The Enquirer/Gary Landers
Find Some Urban Entertainment
Sitting along the Ohio River, Cincinnati invites visitors to delve deep into its many facets. There’s the history of the Underground Railroad, which is documented in the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. Or the vast array of architecture on full display throughout the city’s downtown area and its historic district of Over-the-Rhine. And you can’t miss the culinary scene that includes such favorites as Skyline Chili and Graeter’s Ice Cream. Not surprising, Cincinnati’s lodging choices are as varied as the city itself. Whether you choose a swanky hotel in Cincinnati’s bustling downtown or opt for a more serene bed-and-breakfast, you’re sure to find the right accommodations for your stay.
Get Up Close and Personal
Travelers who love big-city entertainment but could do without the crowds will love Tulsa, Oklahoma. This city offers all the sites and attractions you love in larger cities, but you don’t have to fight the crowds or pay big bucks to enjoy them. Fill your itinerary with visits to the Philbrook Museum of Art, the Tulsa Zoo and Living Museum, and the Tulsa Performing Arts Center. You also can shop until you drop in Tulsa’s historic Cherry Street and Brookside districts. Not to be outdone, Tulsa accommodations range from standard hotels and motels to eclectic boutique hotels and charming bed-and-breakfasts.