Heartland

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Heartland's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring the Heartland: 1
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner, enjoying traditional dishes. After breakfast, take a stroll in a nearby park to soak in the fresh air.

afternoon
:

Visit a regional museum to learn about the local history and culture. Grab lunch from a food truck offering farm-to-table options.

evening
:

Savor dinner at a family-owned restaurant featuring Heartland cuisine. End your night with a walk through the town's historic district, admiring the architecture.

day 2
Scenic Drives: 2
morning
:

Hit the road early to enjoy a scenic drive through rolling hills and picturesque farms. Stop for photos at scenic overlooks along the way.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and find a beautiful spot to enjoy your lunch amid nature. Afterward, explore a quaint town with unique shops and galleries.

evening
:

Return to your base and have dinner at a local BBQ joint known for its slow-smoked meats. Cap off the evening with a bonfire under the stars.

day 3
Culture and Nature: 3
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local farmer's market, sampling fresh produce and homemade goods. Engage with local vendors and learn about farming practices.

afternoon
:

Explore a state park, hiking scenic trails and enjoying the natural beauty. Bring along a packed lunch to enjoy by a tranquil lake.

evening
:

Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant with a focus on sustainable ingredients. After dinner, catch a local music performance or storytelling event.

day 4
Historical Heartland: 4
morning
:

Visit a nearby historical site or a living history farm to experience the past. Participate in hands-on activities and guided tours.

afternoon
:

Have lunch in a local café renowned for its homemade baked goods. Spend your afternoon visiting antique shops and local artisans.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a tavern with traditional dishes inspired by the region's history. Wind down with a night walk in a historic neighborhood.

day 5
Arts and Crafts: 5
morning
:

Kick off your day with a creative workshop at a local art studio. Learn about local artists and try your hand at painting or pottery.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a nearby café, take a walking tour of a city’s art district, discovering murals and galleries. Engage with artists and buy a piece to take home.

evening
:

Have dinner at an artsy restaurant that features live performances. Attend a local theater show or open mic to enjoy Heartland talent.

day 6
Outdoor Adventures: 6
morning
:

Start with a hearty breakfast before renting bikes for a ride along a scenic trail. Enjoy the morning sun and keep an eye out for local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Stop for lunch at a trailside café, then continue biking or opt for a canoeing adventure on a nearby river. Relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

evening
:

Finish the day with dinner at a riverside restaurant offering local fish specials. Take an evening stroll along the water’s edge as the sun sets.

day 7
Autumn in the Heartland: 7
morning
:

Enjoy a cozy breakfast at a bed-and-breakfast, featuring pumpkin spice pastries. Take a scenic drive to admire the fall foliage.

afternoon
:

Visit a local apple orchard and pick some fresh apples. Create your own apple pie with a local recipe.

evening
:

Dine at a rustic cider house, enjoying dishes that pair beautifully with local cider. Gather around a fire pit to share stories with fellow visitors.

day 8
Country Living: 8
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast in a cowboy-themed restaurant. Then, head out to a ranch for horseback riding.

afternoon
:

Have lunch on the ranch before learning about traditional ranching methods. Participate in a rodeo if available.

evening
:

Enjoy a true cowboy dinner with BBQ and fixings under the stars. Share stories with fellow diners around the campfire.

day 9
City Life: 9
morning
:

Begin your day with breakfast at a trendy café in an urban neighborhood. Explore local shops and grab a coffee to go.

afternoon
:

Visit key city attractions such as museums or gardens. Try lunch at a popular food hall showcasing diverse cuisines.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with great views of the skyline. Experience the local nightlife by visiting bars or a music venue.

day 10
Taste of the Heartland: 10
morning
:

Kickstart your day with a classic breakfast at a local establishment known for hearty portions. Delight in trying regional specialties.

afternoon
:

Join a culinary tour to sample various local delicacies at different eateries. Enjoy a cooking class to learn how to prepare Heartland favorites.

evening
:

End your trip with a grand dinner at a well-reviewed steakhouse. Savor your meal paired with a fine local wine as you reflect on your experiences.

Discover Heartland

Read more in our Heartland 2024 Travel Guide.

Heartland Travel Guide