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Discover 12 Great Holiday Destinations in the Midwest
As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to embrace festive cheer, uncover local traditions, and explore stunning destinations right in the heart of America. The Midwest is home to a range of cities and towns that transform into magical getaways during the holidays. From sparkling light displays to cozy holiday markets, these Midwest destinations promise enchanting experiences for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Whether you’re looking to stroll through charming streets lined with holiday décor, enjoy iconic winter festivals, or cozy up by a roaring fire with picturesque wintry views, these destinations showcase the best of what the Midwest has to offer in the holiday season. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at 12 Great Midwest Holiday Destinations, inspired by Midwest Living’s guide, to help you plan your perfect getaway.
Why the Midwest Shines During the Holidays
The Midwest is an underrated gem when it comes to celebrating the holidays. Known for its friendly communities, rich traditions, and scenic landscapes, the region offers a winter wonderland experience unique to its central location in the United States. Many towns and cities in the Midwest go above and beyond during the holiday season, decking their halls with dazzling lights, festive decorations, and entertainment options for all ages.
What makes the Midwest special during the holidays is its fusion of old-world charm and modern holiday festivities. Whether you’re looking to enjoy nostalgic traditions such as horse-drawn sleigh rides or innovative light shows synchronized with music, there’s something for everyone. If you’re wondering where to go, keep reading as we delve into some of the most charming Midwest holiday destinations.
Top Midwest Holiday Destinations You Shouldn’t Miss
1. Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City knows how to celebrate the holidays! Chicago is home to the iconic Christkindlmarket, a German-style holiday market that’s a must-visit for traditional food, hand-crafted ornaments, and mulled wine. Millennium Park transforms into a winter wonderland with ice skating, a massive Christmas tree, and festive light installations across the plaza.
Don’t miss Lincoln Park Zoo’s “ZooLights,” a spectacular light display adored by locals and visitors alike. Shopping enthusiasts will love strolling down the Magnificent Mile as holiday music fills the air and store displays sparkle with seasonal décor.
2. Frankenmuth, Michigan
Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is a small town with big holiday spirit. A trip to Frankenmuth during the holidays isn’t complete without visiting Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world. Whether you’re browsing ornaments or marveling at their enormous Christmas displays, Bronner’s is a true holiday dream.
Visitors will also love the Zehnder’s Holiday Festival, featuring delicious German-inspired dishes and live entertainment. Horse-drawn carriage rides meander through the festive streets, making it a memorable experience for all.
3. Kansas City, Missouri
Known for its famous Christmas lights display at the Country Club Plaza, Kansas City shines bright during the holiday season. The historic district comes alive with more than 80 miles of lights illuminating the streets and towers. Kansas City’s Union Station also boasts a stunning 40-foot-tall Christmas tree and holiday-themed exhibits.
Families will love visiting Crown Center for ice skating and exploring Hallmark’s “Seasons Greetings” displays. The charming holiday atmosphere makes Kansas City one of the best Midwest Christmas getaways.
4. Duluth, Minnesota
Duluth is home to the renowned Bentleyville “Tour of Lights,” one of the most impressive holiday light displays in the Midwest. This massive outdoor event draws crowds every year, featuring millions of twinkling lights and festive displays set against the snow-covered shores of Lake Superior.
Enjoy the city’s quaint charm with cozy inns, local shops, and a variety of winter activities like skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. Duluth’s breathtaking scenery and vibrant holiday spirit make it a top choice for Midwest holiday travel.
Unique Activities to Try in Midwest Holiday Destinations
Explore Holiday Markets
The Midwest is famous for its beautiful holiday markets, from Milwaukee’s Christkindlmarket to Indianapolis’s Circle of Lights celebration. These markets are ideal for picking up unique souvenirs, sampling festive treats, and enjoying live performances. Holiday markets also provide opportunities to support local artisans and businesses.
Experience Iconic Light Displays
Whether it’s St. Louis’s Garden Glow at the Missouri Botanical Garden or Omaha’s Holiday Lights Festival, light displays across the Midwest are a feast for the eyes. Take a leisurely stroll or drive through these sparkling displays to soak in the holiday magic with your loved ones.
Embrace Outdoor Winter Activities
Many Midwest destinations offer thrilling outdoor adventures like ice skating, sledding, and skiing. Cities like Madison, Wisconsin, and Minneapolis, Minnesota, are particularly known for their scenic trails and frozen lakes perfect for winter sports enthusiasts.
Top Tips for Planning Your Midwest Holiday Getaway
Planning ahead is essential for making your holiday trip to the Midwest a success. Here are a few tips to help you get started:
- Book early: Many popular destinations and attractions fill up quickly during the holiday season, so secure your accommodations and tickets in advance.
- Dress warmly: Midwest winters can be chilly, so pack plenty of layers and winter gear to stay comfortable during outdoor activities.
- Check schedules: Verify event times and dates to make sure you don’t miss any must-see displays or performances.
- Support local businesses: Take advantage of local holiday markets and eateries to bring home meaningful, handcrafted gifts and support the surrounding community.
Why the Midwest is Perfect for a Family-Friendly Holiday
The Midwest is an excellent region for creating unforgettable holiday memories with your loved ones. Many destinations cater to families with special events, kid-friendly attractions, and opportunities for quality time in the great outdoors. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere across the region makes it easy for travelers of all ages to feel at home.
From sipping hot chocolate by a crackling fire to participating in time-honored traditions, the Midwest offers experiences that allow families to slow down and truly savor the magic of the season. Whether you’re traveling with young children or teenagers, there’s no shortage of exciting activities to enjoy.
Conclusion: Plan Your Midwest Holiday Adventure
The Midwest’s unique blend of festive charm, community spirit, and stunning winter landscapes make it an unbeatable destination for holiday travel. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities like Chicago and Kansas City or discovering small-town treasures like Frankenmuth and Duluth, you’re sure to find joy and inspiration in every corner of the region.
Ready to start planning your dream holiday trip? Explore even more magical destinations with inspiration from Midwest Living, and let this year’s holiday adventure be one that you and your loved ones will cherish forever. Happy travels!
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