Spring is the perfect time to hit the open road and explore the most beautiful Midwest drives. With blooming landscapes, serene lakefront views, and historic highways, the Midwest offers some of the best routes for Midwest spring road trips. Key destinations like Badlands National Park with its otherworldly landscape and dramatic rock formations are must-see stops.
Additionally, Lake Erie offers scenic and recreational opportunities along its shores, including the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway and the Erie Marsh Preserve, known for birdwatching and ecological importance.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend scenic drive or planning a longer road trip, these scenic highways in the Midwest will provide unforgettable experiences.
Planning Your Midwest Road Trip
When to Go
The best time to embark on a Midwest road trip largely depends on your preferences and planned activities. Spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) are ideal for those who enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds. These seasons offer a perfect backdrop of blooming flowers or vibrant fall foliage, making your road trip even more picturesque. Summer (June to August) is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts who love hiking, swimming, and camping, though be prepared for hot and humid conditions. Winter (December to February) transforms the Midwest into a snowy wonderland, ideal for skiing, snowboarding, and exploring winter festivals, but keep in mind that some attractions and roads might be closed due to snow and ice.
What to Pack
Packing for a Midwest road trip requires some thoughtful preparation, especially considering the season and activities you have planned. Here’s a handy checklist to ensure you’re well-prepared:
- Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: Essential for outdoor activities and long drives.
- Layers: Midwest weather can be unpredictable, so pack layers to adjust to changing conditions.
- Waterproof Gear and Rain Jackets: Spring and summer showers are common, so stay dry with the right gear.
- Warm Clothing and Gloves: If you’re traveling in winter, pack plenty of warm layers.
- Sunscreen, Sunglasses, and Hats: Protect yourself from the sun during summer adventures.
- Insect Repellent: Keep mosquitoes and ticks at bay, especially in wooded areas.
- Power Adapter and Portable Charger: Ensure your devices stay charged for navigation and entertainment.
- Snacks, Water, and a Cooler: Keep your energy up with road trip essentials.
- Maps, GPS Devices, or a Smartphone with a GPS App: Stay on track with reliable navigation tools.
- First-Aid Kit and Emergency Supplies: Be prepared for any minor injuries or emergencies.
Top Scenic Drives in the Midwest
Great River Road (Minnesota to Illinois)
One of the most iconic Midwest scenic byways, this route follows the Mississippi River through breathtaking river bluffs, charming small towns, and lush springtime foliage. Visitors also have the opportunity to observe prairie dogs along the Great River Road.
Highlights: Red Wing, MN; Dubuque, IA; Galena, IL.
M-22 (Michigan)
This best lakefront drive in the Midwest runs along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, offering stunning water views, rolling dunes, and charming coastal towns.
Highlights: Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Traverse City.
Ohio River Scenic Byway (Ohio, Indiana, Illinois)
A historic highway in the Midwest that runs parallel to the Ohio River, passing through picturesque farmlands, forested areas, and historic sites. Along the way, travelers can explore several state parks that enhance the scenic drive experience.
Highlights: Shawnee National Forest, Clifty Falls State Park.
Flint Hills Scenic Byway (Kansas)
A hidden gem road trip in the Midwest, this route takes you through vast rolling prairies, steep hills that characterize the landscape of the Flint Hills Scenic Byway, and stunning wildflower blooms in the spring.
Highlights: Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve, Council Grove.
Wisconsin’s Door County Coastal Byway
One of the best countryside drives in the Midwest, featuring scenic coastal views, charming small towns, and historic lighthouses.
Highlights: Peninsula State Park, Cave Point County Park.
Great Lakes Scenic Drives
Lake Superior National Scenic Byway
Embark on a breathtaking journey along the Lake Superior National Scenic Byway, a 70-mile stretch that hugs the southern shore of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin. This scenic byway meanders through the Bayfield Peninsula, offering awe-inspiring views of the lake and its rugged coastline. As you drive, you’ll encounter charming small towns, pristine natural areas, and a wealth of outdoor activities that make this route a favorite among families and outdoor enthusiasts.
Some must-see attractions along the Lake Superior National Scenic Byway include:
- Bayfield Peninsula State Natural Area: Explore this pristine natural area, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Discover the stunning beauty of the Apostle Islands, ideal for kayaking, boating, and exploring sea caves.
- Madeline Island: Take a ferry to this enchanting island, offering scenic hiking trails and beautiful beaches.
- Big Bay State Park: Enjoy the park’s scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, and stunning views of Lake Superior.
- Copper Falls State Park: Marvel at the park’s waterfalls, deep gorges, and scenic hiking trails.
The Lake Superior National Scenic Byway is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the Midwest. With its stunning views, charming towns, and abundant outdoor activities, this scenic drive is perfect for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone eager to explore the region’s natural splendor.
Midwest Nature Drives in Spring
If you’re looking for Midwest nature drives in spring, consider these routes:
- dlands Loop Road (South Dakota) – A national parks road trip in the Midwest featuring rugged landscapes and vibrant wildflowers.
- Shawnee Hills Scenic Byway (Illinois) – Ideal for a spring bloom drive in the Midwest, with lush forests and waterfalls.
- North Shore Scenic Drive (Minnesota) – A beautiful drive along Lake Superior with rocky cliffs and scenic overlooks.
While the Midwest offers these charming nature drives, the West Coast boasts the scenic beauty and attractions of the Pacific Coast Highway, with its captivating landscapes, iconic landmarks, and adventurous experiences.
Best Road Trips for Families in the Midwest
For family-friendly adventures, consider these top driving destinations in the Midwest:
- Indiana’s Brown County Loop – Rolling hills and charming small-town stops.
- Minnesota’s Paul Bunyan Scenic Byway – A fun drive featuring outdoor adventure spots and historical sites.
- Cuyahoga Valley National Park Drive (Ohio) – A nature-filled road trip with plenty of hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities.
Spring Road Trip Itinerary for the Midwest
For a well-rounded spring road trip itinerary in the Midwest, try this:
- Start in Chicago, IL, and drive the Great River Road to Dubuque, IA.
- Head to Madison, WI, and take the Door County Coastal Byway.
- Make your way to Traverse City, MI, and experience M-22.
- End in Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH, for scenic nature drives and waterfalls.
Spring in the Midwest offers unparalleled beauty, and these car-friendly Midwest travel routes are perfect for those looking to explore the heartland in bloom. Pack your bags, roll down the windows, and enjoy the best scenic drives in the Midwest!
