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🧑🧑🧒🧒 15 Family-Friendly Midwest Destinations 🧑🧑🧒🧒
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items Planning a fun, memory-making trip with the kids? The Midwest is packed with exciting attractions, hands-on museums, theme parks, and outdoor adventures the whole family will love. From waterparks and zoos to beach towns and educational hotspots, the...
Known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” this destination has indoor and outdoor waterparks, magic shows, mini-golf, and scenic boat tours. There’s something fun for every age, rain or shine.
Wisconsin Dells
This massive mall features an indoor theme park (Nickelodeon Universe), SEA LIFE aquarium, and tons of kid-friendly attractions. It’s perfect for a weekend of shopping, dining, and family fun—all under one roof.
Personal Note: We visited here and ha...
Mall of America®
The Indianapolis Children’s Museum is one of the largest in the world, and the city also offers a zoo, interactive art museum, and White River State Park. It’s easy to fill an entire weekend with educational and exciting activities.
Indianapolis, IN Tourism | Hotels, Restaurants & Events
Families love the Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, Field Museum, and Millennium Park. Add a ride on the Centennial Ferris Wheel and deep-dish pizza for a classic Chicago family adventure.
Personal Note: We LOVE Chicago! So much history and lots of things ...
Chicago, Illinois
With LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Science City, and the Kansas City Zoo, this city is packed with hands-on fun. Don’t forget the iconic BBQ spots that even kids will love.
Personal Note: Mmmmmm we love the Kansas City BBQ!
City of Kansas City
From Silver Dollar City amusement park to live shows and fun museums (like the Titanic Museum), Branson offers nonstop entertainment. There’s a wholesome, family-friendly vibe and activities for all ages.
Branson, MO
Home to the highly-rated Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, this is a must-see for animal lovers. Add in a children’s museum and riverfront park for a full family itinerary.
Personal Note: You need to visit Hollywood Candy- it’s a massive candy/...
Visit Omaha, Nebraska | Find Restaurants, Hotels & Things to Do
The Blank Park Zoo, Science Center of Iowa, and Adventureland amusement park make this a great, low-key family destination. It’s affordable, clean, and packed with learning opportunities.
Personal Note: There’s seriously so much to do here. Lots of ...
City of Des Moines, IA
Cedar Point is a legendary amusement park with roller coasters for thrill-seekers and plenty of kids’ rides and water attractions. Nearby, Great Wolf Lodge offers an indoor waterpark perfect for year-round fun.
Welcome to Sandusky, OH
A rare spot that’s great for couples and families! Kids can swim in Lake Michigan, hike the dunes, and enjoy the National Cherry Festival if you visit in summer. It’s scenic, safe, and very walkable.
Traverse City, Michigan
The Twin Cities are packed with family fun—explore the Minnesota Children’s Museum, Como Zoo, and the Science Museum of Minnesota. In summer, enjoy paddle boating at Minnehaha Falls or skating at a winter festival during the colder months.
Twin Cities, Minnesota
A family road trip paradise with iconic stops like Mount Rushmore, Crazy Horse Memorial, and Custer State Park. Kids will love the scenic wildlife drives, historic gold mines, and Old West towns like Deadwood.
Black Hills & Badlands of South Dakota
Known for its Dutch heritage and the annual Tulip Time Festival, Holland is a fun and colorful stop for families. Visit Windmill Island Gardens, splash at the beach, and rent bikes for a ride along scenic trails.
Holland, Michigan
Follow the Mississippi River through small river towns with museums, playgrounds, and family-owned diners. With plenty of scenic overlooks, boat tours, and hiking stops, it’s a relaxed and budget-friendly road trip route.
Wisconsin Great River Road
Home to the Peoria Zoo, Riverfront Museum, and a beautiful riverwalk, Peoria is a lesser-known gem for families. Younger kids will love the wildlife park and Discovery Center, while older kids can enjoy science exhibits and boat rides.
Peoria, IL | Official Website