Middle

Day Trips

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

day 1
Explore the Midwest
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local diner. Visit the beautiful Lincoln Park in Chicago for a stroll or a morning jog.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a deep-dish pizza for lunch followed by a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. Take some time to admire the impressive collections of art.

evening
:

Head to Navy Pier for stunning views of Lake Michigan at sunset. Dine at one of the pier restaurants for a great evening experience.

day 2
Kansas City Culture
morning
:

Grab a coffee and breakfast at a local cafΓ© before exploring the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. Spend some time appreciating the American and European art collections.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a famous BBQ joint and then visit the National WWI Museum and Memorial. The museum offers an insightful look into history.

evening
:

Take a relaxing walk around the Country Club Plaza and enjoy its beautiful architecture. End the night with some live jazz music at a local venue.

day 3
St. Louis Adventure
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a charming cafΓ© before visiting the iconic Gateway Arch. Take a tram ride to the top for spectacular views of the city.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local eatery and then visit the Missouri Botanical Garden. Wander through the beautiful landscapes and themed gardens.

evening
:

Explore the Delmar Loop for dinner options and unique shops. Capture the vibrant nightlife by stopping for dessert at a local ice cream shop.

day 4
Wonders of Wisconsin
morning
:

Start with a hearty breakfast featuring local cheese. Enjoy the beautiful views at Lake Geneva while relaxing by the water.

afternoon
:

Visit the Geneva Lake Museum for a taste of local history and culture. Have a picnic lunch by the lake to soak in the scenery.

evening
:

Stroll through the charming downtown area and shop for local crafts. Wrap up your day with dinner at a lakeside restaurant for a memorable dining experience.

day 5
Chicago Arts & Eats
morning
:

Fuel up with breakfast at a famous brunch spot in the city. Spend the morning exploring the vibrant street art in various neighborhoods.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chicago Cultural Center for free art exhibitions and enjoy lunch at a nearby food market. Experience the unique culinary offerings of the city.

evening
:

Enjoy a theater performance or live comedy show in the city. Post-show, have a late-night snack at a food truck or trendy restaurant.

day 6
Detroit History & Music
morning
:

Start your morning with a breakfast taco at a local favorite. Visit the Detroit Institute of Arts to see some of the finest collections in the country.

afternoon
:

Grab lunch at one of Detroit's famous coney islands. Explore the Motown Museum to learn about the city's incredible music history.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy restaurant in Midtown and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Catch a live music performance in one of the city's historic venues.

day 7
Omaha Charm
morning
:

Enjoy breakfast at a cozy local cafΓ© before heading to the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo. Spend the morning exploring one of the best zoos in the world.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at the Old Market area and explore its unique shops and galleries. Visit the Durham Museum to learn about Omaha's history.

evening
:

Take a leisurely stroll along the Riverwalk and admire the waterfront views. Conclude your day with dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant.

day 8
Cincinnati Sights
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at Findlay Market, sampling local delicacies. Ride along the scenic Ohio River on a bike or walk the waterfront.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a popular brewery while soaking in the city views. Visit the Cincinnati Museum Center at Union Terminal for a taste of history.

evening
:

Explore the vibrant Over-the-Rhine district for local shops and restaurants. End your day with a nightcap at a rooftop bar overlooking the skyline.

day 9
Nashville Vibes
morning
:

Kick off your day with a traditional Southern breakfast in Music City. Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame for an introduction to the city's rich musical history.

afternoon
:

Have lunch at a local honky-tonk and enjoy live music. Explore the Parthenon in Centennial Park for a unique architectural experience.

evening
:

Dive into Nashville's nightlife with live country music at a local bar. Enjoy a late-night snack at a food truck or classic diner.

day 10
Indianapolis Fun
morning
:

Have breakfast at a quaint coffee shop before visiting the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. Spend the morning exploring the museum dedicated to the city's racing history.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a local bistro and then visit the art-filled Indianapolis Museum of Art. Stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the museum.

evening
:

Explore the historic Wholesale District for shopping and dining. Finish your day by catching a show at the Indiana Repertory Theatre.

Discover Middle

Read more in our Middle 2024 Travel Guide.

Middle Travel Guide