Explore the hotels near Badlands National Park. 1. (Photo by @sandramcosgrove), A pristine reservoir in eastern Oklahoma surrounded by woods and wildlife and the kind of natural beauty that make your social-media followers weep with joy? Meanwhile, Wind Cave, one of America's oldest national parks, has one of the world's longest and most complex cave systems. The ultimate romantic destination, the Emerald Isle is filled with lush green rolling hills, charming seaside villages, beautiful beaches and dramatic cliffs like the Cliffs of Moher. OK, great, now envision a picturesque place thats all about swimming, boating and just all-around waterfront fun. You can camp on 19 of the islands most of the year, or you can stay in an island town like Bayfield, but youre going to want to explore and find your own moment of perfection to ask your girlfriend the question and there will be plenty of those here. Wisconsins entire Door County peninsula is magical, Joan Sherman attests, but Egg Harbor is a prime example of why the region earned the nickname Cape Cod of the Midwest. About 2.5 hours north of Milwaukee, Egg Harbor is located on the bay of Green Bay. This artistic egg in Egg Harbor is called Living Canopy. Explore the hotels near Cuyahoga Valley National Park. You may have heard of Joplin because of the devastating tornado that struck the southwestern Missouri town in 2011. (Photo by @kmf_116), Jacksons public botanical center has enough winding paths and photogenic bridges for you both to get lost in while you mentally settle on how, exactly, youre going to phrase your proposal. The Best Places to Camp in Midwest National Parks Our region might be known for its plains, but remote islands, towering cliffs and dense forests are here tooif you know where to look. Perched on the shore of Lake Superior, Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore overflows with fantastical scenery. The Midwest, aptly nicknamed "America's Heartland", is home to thousands of captivating attractions. Specifically, the federal government defines it as the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsinin other words, it spans a lot of gorgeous ground. Dont go in when its snowbound, which will turn the moderately difficult hike into a more challenging one. She recommends ending your day at Egg Harbors Harbor View Park, which she describes as a great place to see the sun set on this adorable Midwest town., Elkhart Lake is an hours drive from the Milwaukee airport, and that hour is all the effort youll expend on this water-for-days getaway, attests Deurlein. 1. Its in Hot Springs National Park, so if you prefer a wilder, more ungroomed look for your proposal, untamed spots lie a short hike away. With enough activities to fill 2 days to a week, the flexibility of Wichita is a huge perk for travelers. There are plenty of guest houses and motels, including the DeSoto House Hotel, the oldest operating hotel in the state. If you want to get technical (why not? Plus, its right in St. Louis, so you can go get messy with barbecue right after she says yes. Where cultural attractions, restaurants, bars, shops, and Wayne State University all can be found. While plenty of noteworthy drives are found in the Midwest, the Great River Road stands out among the pack. These public gardens date back to the 1930s, are now easily one of the prettiest spots on the prairie. It really is a place that keeps you as busy as you want to be and soothes your soul in the best possible way, declares Deurlein. (Photo by @itsmemikepe). The Elkhart River and St. Joseph River make a lovely backdrop for this vibrant city that features fun dining spots and historic homes like Ruthmere to tour. (Photo by @betothebee), Built as a tribute to the friendly relationship between the U.S. and its northern neighbor the garden sits on the border with Manitoba and earns extra points if you happen to be marrying a Canadian. The grand lobby of The Elms Hotel & Spa, Excelsior Springss lovely, soothing and historic resort. Lafayette is one of the coolest Midwest vacation spots for history lovers. But it's not all about . St. Louis is also an awesome city for foodies. Theyre perfect for a casual stroll before going out to grab a runza for dinner oh, and whats this in my pocket? We dont have a particular location in Woodstock to recommend except to say that if you take a stroll anywhere whether its to the local sugar bush (maple syrup farm) to the picturesque covered Middle Bridge or just to see the fall colors and then back to your B&B for hot cider youll probably find the perfect moment to get on a knee. These majestic creatures find overnight solace in the vast, flat, and shallow Platte River. The Midwest Museum of American Art is right across the street from the recently restored historic Hotel Elkhart, she says, so you can walk to the museum from the hotel. Beautiful murals decorate the town, too. https://mostateparks.com/park/johnsons-shut-ins-state-park EDIT: Drone footage. There are a slew of bike trails, plus trout streams, campsites and even an 18-hole golf course. (Photo by @megletha), Whether you propose under Seneca Rocks oronSeneca Rocks in the Eastern Panhandle is, of course, dependant on your particular skill level and fear of dying, but either way youre going to get one of natures best backgrounds for a proposal. The beautiful river city of St. Louis Missouri is perfect for a romantic couples vacation. Jason Kessler September 17, 2018 Your proposal is going to be a moment you'll both remember forever. There's much fun to be had in this Midwestern city, too. Cant find the words to tell your partner how you want to spend the rest of your life with her? Kansas has a diversity of intriguing attractions (way more than most people realize). Art from the Midwest Museum is on display at the theater as well. One of the best cities in the U.S., according to Travel + Leisure 's 2022 World's Best Awards, Chicago is a must-visit Midwestern destination . Nearby, the Precious Moments Chapel features Sistine Chapel-inspired murals. There are also bike share programs and a free shuttle. Its a refreshing take on a city whose people have their noses buried in work and studya perfect break in which to try something big and new. Not so enchanted by the Mississippi? But we like Jones Point Park, just south of Old Town, with its unconventional lighthouse, wooded paths and the waterside walkway under the yawning George Washington Memorial Parkway a juxtaposition of man against nature that somehow works. Built in 1844, the historic Milton House was a stop on the Underground Railroad. Whether you still think of it as Mount McKinley or its newly restored name, Denali, the continents tallest peak is an insurmountable (get it?) The manor-type estate was recently renovated and features large rooms, a lovely outdoor pool area, and a terrific spa with several treatment rooms. Rides over the Mojave are easily arranged from inside Vegas (or Reno) for a perfect day in which to propose. 2. Next, head to Northleaf Winery for a wine and chocolate pairing, instructs Pittman. You can always drive back to Jackson Hole after to celebrate afterward with a nice (expensive) dinner, but hiking Phelps Lake itself is free. Youll have to take the single road into the national park and then switch to the parks bus and shuttle system, then hike, hike, hike. So here it isthe 13 most beautiful places in the Midwest. If you prefer to stay outside of downtown, Ironworks Hotel. Additionally, downtown Excelsior Springs boasts beautiful boutiques, cafes, pubs, and lots of art look for the large murals depicting scenes from the towns past on several historic buildings. Youll have to take the single road into the national park and then switch to the parks bus and shuttle system, then hike, hike, hike. The beach itself is beautiful, but its the dramatic 235 foot sea-stack known as Haystack Rock that really makes this an ideal proposal spot. Its quaint downtown is filled with historical buildings and plenty of cafes and restaurants serving up Midwest fare. Instead, make the trip up Mount Tantalus to Tantalus Lookout, day or night, to enjoy a rare urban landscape of Honolulu. Beautiful in all seasons, Egg Harbor is in close proximity to cross-country skiing, biking, and hiking options. Katy Spratte Joyce is a freelance food, business, and travel writer based in Omaha, Nebraska. No visit to South Bend is complete without a tour of Notre Dame, according to Deurlein, who says, Youve seen it in the movies, but its a thrill to stand before Touchdown Jesus.. Make sure you get a steak while youre here, advises Morgensen, who recommends Johnnys Cafe and Dinkers. It offers a world-class spa, gorgeous manicured grounds, and a sprawling landscape filled with amenities for people of all ages. April 18, 1927: "Two organizations, The St. Joseph County Ministerial association and the Typographical union, No. Youll experience a couple of weeks of rowdy college fans, crowded bars, and pure fun! Morgensen tells us. Des Moines also has one of the highest housing affordability scores in the Midwest, and about 74.2% of households spend less than 30% of their income on housing. (Photo by @janellewyutong), Ashevilles already arguably North Carolinas prettiest town, but the 30-acre rose garden designed by Frederic Law Olmsted at the Biltmore ratchets things up a considerable notch. (Photo by @abovethenorthwest), OK, OK, its actually called John F. Kennedy Plaza, but Philadelphians still call this square in downtown Philly Love Park after the iconic sculpture by Robert Indiana (its the City of Brotherly Love, get it?). (Photo by @mviron), Is it the gateway to the West, or the gateway to your future with your wife-to-be (assuming she says yes)? Try not to go during the hottest part of summer. For outdoor fun, Ladage suggests checking out Wellfield Botanic Gardens. Midwestern getaways everyone should experience at least once. Any time of year, music enthusiasts may book the Rock & Roll Suite at the Hilton Cleveland Downtown for an on-theme lodging pick. (Photo by @thisisalabama), Whether you still think of it as Mount McKinley or its newly restored name, Denali, the continents tallest peak is an insurmountable (get it?) Our advice? Consider checking out the Crane Trust for its overnight VIP experience, complete with heated bird blinds. Explore the hotels near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This Kansas City Art Deco landmark is sure to make sparks fly! When you visit this site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Wyalusing State Park Wisconsin. Pack up the tent (or RV) and camp in these well-appointed parks. Here are the top 4 best vortexes in Sedona, Arizona: Airport Mesa Bello Rock Boynton Canyon Cathedral Rock Pink Jeep Tours An iconic experience throughout the adventurous Sedona Mountain terrain, the Pink Jeep Tours are an exciting nature experience that is guaranteed to spark a thrill! The Midwest is known for its impressive list of colleges and universities, including Northwest University in Chicago, the University of Minnesota, the University of Wisconsin, Ohio State University, the University of Michigan, the University of Notre Dame, the University of Chicago and more. The 10 best places to live in the Midwest Rogers Park (Chicago), Illinois Ann Arbor, Michigan Naperville, Illinois Carmel, Indiana Overland Park, Kansas Madison, Wisconsin Woodbury, Minnesota Eagan, Minnesota Troy, Michigan St. Peters, Missouri Ad Take the first step to becoming a homeowner today Get a Mortgage Rate that works for you. Sure, Niagara Falls is a safe default when youre in upstate New York, but do you really want to be the 14th person to get down on one knee on the Maid of the Mists boat tour on your special day? Springs the obvious season to visit here. Scotts Bluff, its namesake crown jewel, which towers 800 feet above the North Platte River, was an important landmark for travelers moving westward during the 19th century. The JW Marriott Indianapolis is an excellent choice for accommodations during your stay in the city, set close to White River State Park. Falls Park Falls Park might just be the most picturesque place in Sioux Falls, so no matter where you chose to propose here, you'll have a wonderful view and a special memory. The Indiana Dunes in the northern part of the state will make you feel like youve transported yourselves out of the Midwest and to one of the coasts, perfect for an otherworldly backdrop. Its about three and a half hours from Oklahoma and two hours and 45 minutes from Dallas, but a weekend in the wilderness with a wedding date at the end is worth the trip, no? Grand Rapids is known as Beer City, USA, for its large number of breweries, including Founders Brewing Co., Atwater Brewery, and Brewery Vivant. Potato Creek State Park offers plenty of activities, including kayaking through wetlands, biking along woodlands, and bird watching on Lake Worster. Located along Lake Michigan this city has a unique combination of a busy industrial city and a relaxed lifestyle. For lodging, lay your head at any of T+L's World's Best Award winners; there's sure to be an ideal pick for every type of traveler. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (michigan) Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, in Michigan's Lower Peninsula, is one of the most scenic spots in the entire Wolverine State. This Coastal Destination Is Called the 'Cape Cod of the Midwest' With Charming Small Towns and Beautiful Views. Omaha should be on your radar, Morgensen asserts. Explore hotels near Shawnee National Forest. Even if you dont care a lick about history, its just super cool to see IRL. In the late 1880s, word spread that water from the areas bubbling springs had curative powers, and people from all over the country arrived to take the water. The towns flagship spa, The Elms, was built to accommodate them. Fort Frenzy Family Fun Center is a family entertainment center that offers indoor activities, including a full arcade, go-karts, and laser tag, so its an excellent rainy-day option. Unless, that is, you're looking in the Midwest. Remember to bring required documentation, if youre passing to the other side, of course. (Photo by @petershieldsinnandrestaurant), Its not cheating to take the tram to the top if its the fastest way to her heart. Giddyup! Getting ready to pop the question? Like its borderline unfair that one place could possibly pack that many spectacular sights into a 3,776-acre area. Bottom line: You get more sparkle for less dough at James Allen, Blue Nile, and Whiteflash. S.F.s Golden Gate Bridge? For a fantastic view of the mountain to wake up to and propose beneath try Wonder Lake Campground. Walls recommends visiting in springtime, when more than 400,000 sandhill cranes migrate through for about 6 weeks, preparing for the nesting period to come. (Photo by @forgotteniowa), Who needs Oz? Each July, a huge Czech festival is held, celebrating generations of culture, food, and crafts. And its true, there are a lot of romantic places thatd be idea to propose in. Sandy beaches, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes make it ideal for all sorts of outdoor recreation, from hiking and cycling to kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Go in the warmer months. Ancient horses and rhinos once roamed the protected land that we know as Badlands National Park in South Dakota. Wed be remiss not to mention the plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. (Do not drop the ring up there!) If you want a fairytale wedding, start things off right by getting engaged in a fairytale village. With a paradise like Hawaii, winnowing out where NOT to propose is the challenge. Did you know that Madison County has the largest collection of covered bridges anywhere in the western half of the Mississippi Valley? Their search tool is great. (The film festival is in Park City, 30 miles to the north.) Route 66 Road Trip Through the Midwest (Chicago to Oklahoma) From Kylie of Between England and Iowa. How about getting out of Sin City (or Reno) altogether and taking a hot-air balloon ride over the desert, far from the cha-ching of the slots? Formerly the Coca-Cola Bottling Company of Indianapolis, it now serves as a boutique hotel only a 20-minute drive from the speedway. Bike around the island, once a national park, or opt for a kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding excursion with Great Turtle Kayak Tours. Wilson, Kansas is home to the largest hand-painted Czech Egg in the world. Every spring, roughly one million sandhill cranes traverse central Nebraska, giving new meaning to the term "flyover country." Peninsula State Park in Door County is teeming with natural beautytowering bluffs, sandy stretches, cedar forests, scenic overlooks and more. (Photo by @, Dos and Donts of Marriage Proposalsfrom Pro Planners, 5 Rules For A Successful Marriage Proposal, The 10 Commandments Of Popping The Question. And, since we only live once, you have to be a bit choosy when making a to-do list in this region. Explore hotels near Monument Rocks National Landmark, These Influencers Cant Stop Raving About Their Trips to New Zealand, But the Amazing Content Speaks for Itself, 18 Amazing Weekend Trips from Los Angeles, 3 New Bis Weekend Bag Colors Just Dropped in Time for Your Spring and Summer Vacays, Owen Weber (www.owenweberlive.com)/Getty Images. From crystal clear freshwater beaches to electrifying cities, these states feature an endless array of activities to pique your interest. Minnesota scored the highest, with South Dakota, Colorado, Utah, and North Dakota rounding out the top five. Seriously, tie one into a knot and slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and shell be yours for sure. The best way to peep all this geological gorgeousness? Built specifically for river use, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi sets sail in Minnesota, nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, and continues through the heartland before concluding in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Grand Basin in Forest Park Matt Ridings/Flickr.com The Grand Basin in Forest Park offers unforgettable views of Art Hill and the Saint Louis Art Museum. OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. Amongst all the wonderful small towns of Door County, Egg Harbor earns a distinction with artistic egg displays all over town, One Barrel Brewing brewery, and local peninsula apple and cherry deliciousness at Woods Orchard Market, Sherman says.