Exploring the Midwest with Jody Halsted: Recent Episodes
Jody Halsted
Discover what you never imagined in the Midwest! Jody Halsted introduces you to the people and places that make the Midwest such a wonderful place to live, work & play!
The fairy door trail in downtown Dublin, Ohio is a whimsical adventure for all ages. PLUS an 'adults only' trail and tips for visiting from Sara Blatnik, Marketing Director for Visit Dublin, Ohio.
Austin, Minnesota has a really incredible story of how revitalization formed the base of public art in the community. Guest Laura Helle is Executive Director of Austin Area Arts. She shares information about the arts in Austin as well as Austin MN travel tips
The city of Louisville, Kentucky has one of the most encompassing community arts programs you will find in the Midwest. Explore all Louisville has to offer and get Louisville travel tips with Andre Guess, President and CEO of Fund for the Arts.
The Wichita City Arts Council's slogan is "We Make Art Happen". Guest Alisha Gridley, Education Director and Interim Executive Director of CityArts, guides us through public art and CityArts, and offers top tips for a visit to Wichita.
NoCo Arts & Cultural District in Jeffersonville, IN has been specifically planned, zoned & set aside for the arts and art businesses. Learn more about this fun area and get tips for visiting from Emily Dippie, the Public Arts Administrator for Jeffersonville.
After you've found your ancestors and traced them back to your 'homeland' it's natural you will want to visit.
Today we're going to talk about a few things you should do before taking a heritage tour.
Allison Singleton is Senior Librarian at The Genealogy Center and the Allen County Public Library in Fort Wayne, Indiana.
Learn more about The Genealogy Center
Discovering the history of Ireland
How Much Information Do You Need to Plan a Heritage Tour?
Singleton suggests having at least a little bit of family information before taking on an ancestry tour or trip. "You really want to know where your ancestors are from," says Singleton. "So you need to actually be able to find that ancestral village or town, or maybe even the home, and in order to do that, you have to exhaust all the resources in the United States before you can jump the pond. Otherwise you're just going to be wandering around aimlessly."
Find everything you can from the United States first before making an overseas trip. Exhaust all of your resources locally and get as much information as you can from your local experts before you go.
The Irish Family History Centre in Dublin, Ireland
Finding Genealogy Experts in Other Countries
When you are planning heritage travel plan to meet with a local historian or genealogist wherever you're visiting.
"I 100% recommend always using the knowledge base of the experts when you're doing research like this," says Singleton. "Otherwise you can get frustrated very quickly."
One great way to find experts is by using familysearch.org. Go to their research Wiki and find the specific location you're going to. There, you should find a list of archives and libraries. This is an excellent place to start, suggests Singleton.
"Another thing that might sound crazy is to get on Facebook," says Singleton. "Find out what research groups are in existence. There are some for every nationality. Ask what other people are using and utilize the resources people recommend."
"Genealogy is not a solitary hobby or occupation," says Singleton. "It's very much about communicating with and learning what you can from others."
Never take original documents on a genealogy trip
Information to Take on an Ancestry Tour
When you take that trip to another country, Singleton recommends making sure you have the immigration information with you.
She also suggests taking any documentation that gives the specific locations in the home country that you're looking for. "Sometimes these might be in different languages or give a clue that maybe you missed that a local might actually see," says Singleton.
Instead of taking hard copies, uploading to the cloud and being able to access the information from a computer, tablet or phone is the best idea. "If you are going to take a hard copy, take a photocopy," says Singleton. "Never take the original."
Tips for Avoiding Heritage Travel Disappointment
It's easy to "build up" an ancestral visit in your mind. How do you keep from being disappointed by what you do -- or don't -- experience?
Go into the trip expecting to learn about the culture and educate yourself about where your family came from.Don't expect to have goosebumps and make that "soul" connection. If you do, great, but just go into it as a learning experience.Don't make it all about "the find." Make it more about experiencing the culture. "Going to those places [the house, the cemetery, etc.] isn't going to give you that immediate connection to your family. It's not going to change anything. It's not going to improve your relationship with those ancestors. It just is a place. It is a record experiencing the place where they're from," says Singleton. "Learning more about the history and the culture -- that's what's really going to connect you to your ancestors. So explore those museums, explore those locations, explore the restaurants and the food and everything else and learn about where you...
No matter where in the US you call home it's likely that your ancestors passed through the Midwest to get there. Guest Allison Singleton, Senior Librarian, Virtual Programming Coordinator, and Acting Genealogy Services Manager in the Genealogy Center at the Allen County Public Library shares Midwest genealogy tips for tracing your family's migration to and through the Midwest.
The Genealogy Center in Fort Wayne, Indiana is the 2nd largest family research collection in North America. Genealogy tips for beginners.
This month on the podcast we are preparing for the most colorful time of the year - and the places to visit to make the most of prime 'leaf peeping'.
Today we are traveling to central Illinois where elegant gardens and extensive woodlands invite you to discover the treasures within before you settle into a very grand accommodation.
Bridget Rose Frerichs is the Associate Director of Advancement at Allerton Park & Retreat Center in Monticello, Illinois.
The Mansion at Allerton Park
History of Allerton Park
Robert Allerton was born in 1873 into a life of privilege, forged by his father Samuel. They lived in Chicago on Prairie Avenue and rubbed elbows with the Marshall Fields family among other rich and successful families. When Robert was born, his dad, who owned land throughout the midwest, put a plot of land in Platt County, Illinois, in Robert's name.
Robert went to boarding school and then studied art in Europe, as was common with children from wealthy families at the time. When he returned from Europe, he settled in Platt County. Since it was mostly farmland, he managed the farms and began to build his country estate, modeled after the 17th century Ham House in Surrey, England.
After the house was built, Allerton would work on expanding his gardens, beginning with a vegetable garden and growing it from there. When he traveled, he would bring home sculptures for the garden. Sometimes he would have a space in mind for it and other times he would create a garden space around it. He also had artists commission sculptures to add to the gardens. In time, he created a magnificent estate spanning 1500 acres and containing 14 Formal Gardens. In 1946 Allerton donated the estate to the University of Illinois, which still uses it for research and study, and it is also open to the public.
Death of the Last Centaur
Visiting Allerton
Obviously the gardens are spectacular in spring and summer, but fall is incredibly special at Allerton. "We have 14 miles of hiking trails, so the fall colors are just magnificent," says Frerichs. "And a lot of people will describe Allerton as peaceful, magical. The fact that it's here in the middle of the prairie, or what was the prairie, now in the middle of cornfields in the middle of central Illinois, this kind of English-type estate, is really an experience that a lot of us don't get in central Illinois."
Explore the 14 Formal Gardens that include artistically designed plantings and over 100 ornaments and sculptures to discover. Join one of the scheduled Friday morning bird hikes from 9-11 a.m. led by managers of the natural areas of the estate.
Get a bite to eat at the Greenhouse Cafe, which offers sandwiches, homemade baked goods, unique salads, classic refreshments and more. It is open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.
Normally they would have concerts and other events scheduled, but with COVID-19, things are looking a bit different. Keep an eye on the website at allerton.illinois.edu for updates on events as restrictions loosen.
The address is 515 Old Timber Road, Monicello, Illinois. The hours are 8 a.m.-Sunset daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's Day. Admission is free.
Fu Dog Garden
Read about our time Exploring Allerton and our stay in The House in the Woods
Accommodations at Allerton
Guests can choose from four different accommodation options for an overnight stay at Allerton.
The Mansion -- Features 17 guest rooms with antique furnishings, five area common spaces and a basement rec room.The House in the Woods -- Built in 1917 to house Allertons' gardening staff, it is tucked away in an alcove on the property and features 8 guest rooms. The Gate House -- Formerly the Head Gardener's residence, the Gate House has 6 guest rooms, featuring a triple room perfect for families.The Evergreen Lodge -- Built by the University of Illinois in the late 1960s,
In the Driftless Region of southwest Wisconsin the unique cabins at Anaway Place offer an incredible fall escape.
Escape to an Ohio treehouse this fall! Get back in nature at The Mohicans Treehouse Resort and Wedding Venue.
Discover Wisconsin's #1 fruit! Explore the Cranberry Highway in Wisconsin with Meredith Kleker, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Rapids Area CVB.
You won't find any chain shops on the Butler County Donut Trail in Ohio! Tips for tackling this sweet food trail!
data-pin-description="The B-Line in Kentucky - where B means bourbon. Learn more about bourbon, the 'sipping points' along the trail & activities in Northern Kentucky with guest Julie Kirkpatrick, creator of 'the B-Line', and president of Meet NKY."
There are over 50 establishments on the Kansas City Kansas Taco Trail - and they aren't all traditional restaurants! Kansas City Kansas tips
This month on the podcast I am celebrating the taste of the Midwest.
Yep- it's all about the FOOD.
I really think you can learn a lot about a place by tasting their traditions - which is why I love food trails! So it seemed only right to kick off the month in Indiana - which has 21 food trails!
My guests today are Lindsey Skeen, Marketing and Media Director at the Indiana Foodways Alliance and Amy Howell, Director of Communications for Visit Indiana.
Hoosier Pie
Food Trails in Indiana
Indiana Foodways Alliance is a membership marketing organization that highlights unique and popular foods in Indiana. Approximately 260 locally-owned restaurants are part of the organization, and are marketed through 21 different food trails.
The Indiana Foodways Alliance created food trails to highlight foods popular along the I-69 corridor. It expanded to become a statewide organization that shares the best foods across Indiana.
A sampling of food trails in Indiana
Between the Buns Burger TrailFarm to TableHoosier BrewsHoosier PieSoda-licious TrailTenderloin LoversWinner, Winner, Chicken Dinner
Most produce in these restaurants is locally sourced; a 'farm to table' experience, even if it isn't advertised in that way.
Tenderloin Lovers
Using the Indiana Foodways Alliance Website
Instead of 'following a trail' the Indiana Foodways Alliance website is designed to help you find the best local meals for an area you are visiting.
Begin on the Culinary Trails page and choose the food you want. Click through that trail and you can preview all the restaurants as well as view their locations on a map.
Choose based on your location or plan a trip around a specific restaurant - then use the other culinary trails to round out your culinary journey.
Green River and Banana Split
The Indiana Culinary Trails Passport
Visit Indiana, in partnership with the Indiana Foodways Alliance, has just released the Indiana Culinary Trails Passport. This mobile application can show you all the stops on the food trails in Indiana, offers deals & discounts, and the opportunity to earn some fun Indiana foodie swag!
33 Brick Street Burger
Taste Indiana!
Get more information about Indiana Foodways Alliance and plan your culinary adventure at IndianaFoodways.com.
Plan the rest of you Indiana travel at VisitIndiana.com.
Wrapping up 'State Fair Season' with the final state fair in the Midwest.Kansas State Fair begins after Labor Day - on September 10 in 2021- and runs for 10 days.
My guest Ed Burger, Interim General manager for the Kansas State Fair, is going to share the history and highlights of the Kansas State Fair - and hopefully a few 'insider tips' to help you make the most of your visit!
Bottle feeding calf
The Kansas State Fair
The Kansas State Fair takes place in Hutchinson, near the center of the state. It has been running since 1913, only skipping one year (2020). The Kansas State Fair begins the Friday after Labor Day and lasts for 10 days.
Pride of Kansas exhibit
Famous Features of the Kansas State Fair
Everyone has their own 'fair favorites'. On the west side of the fairgrounds you'll find livestock and agriculture. The north side of the fair is where you'll find the displays and judging on everything from cooking to quilts. And throughout the grounds you'll find vendors and commercial displays of all types.
Fair Food
Leave your diet at the gate.
Church groups and service clubs have food booths that have become a tradition. Of course you can get your ProntoPup (corn dog) and the Dairy Association has a popular ice cream stand in the Grandstand.
And you'll find plenty of foods on a stick.
Entertainment at the Kansas State Fair
Midway at night
The fair kicks off with 'dirt events' - bull riding, motorcross, and monster trucks - before musical entertainment begins. You'll find a mix of entertainers in the Grandstand, as well as free stages where you can find a variety of acts.
Kansas' Largest Classroom
The Kansas State Fair is a learning environment. See newborn animals in the birthing center, explore the dairy parlor, examine butterflies and bugs in the pollinator garden, and discover more in the new Education Center.
Tips for Attending the Kansas State Fair
$4 admission after 4 on Tuesday and Thursday.
Enjoy special deals at food vendors on 'Tasting Tuesday'.
'Shop til your drop' on Wednesday with vendor specials.
Thursday evening pub crawl to try Kansas craft brewers.
The Kansas State Fair has ample free parking and you'll also find shuttles to bring you to the fairgrounds. Get all the information, as well as deals & discounts at KansasStateFair.com
Continuing 'State Fair Season' with the Midwest state fair that runs the longest.
The Indiana State Fair takes place from July 30 thru August 22 in 2021 - a grand total of 18 days, a week longer than most state fairs.
My guest Sharon Smith, Director of Communications for the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center, is going to share the history and highlights of the Indiana State Fair - and hopefully a few 'insider tips' to help you make the most of your visit!
The Indiana State Fair
The Indiana State Fair began in 1892, which means 2021 will be the 164th fair.
It began in Downtown Indianapolis and moved to different communities throughout the state before returning to midtown Indianapolis at the Indiana State Fairgrounds.
The fair begins on a Friday at 8:30am with opening ceremonies featuring the governor and other dignitaries.
Midway Arch
Fun Features of the Indiana State Fair
The Indiana State Fair has an annual theme - 2021 is 'Celebrating the Hoosier Spirit'.
Iconic locations on the fairgrounds include the Midway Arch and Indiana Farmer's Coliseum.
The grandstand, where all types of events from rodeo and demolition derby to bands and cheerleading competitions, is a popular spot. As is Pioneer Village where you take a step back in time.
Free Entertainment
The free stage at the Indiana State Fair features acts that most state fairs charge extra to see.
In 2021 those performers include Babyface, Josh Turner, Vince Neil, and The Beach Boys. You can even take part in a Latino festival.
100 Free Things to Do
Free fun abounds at the Indiana State Fair! Use the 100 Free Things guide on the website to help plan your day.
Some activities, like fishing at the DNR pond, baby goat petting at Goat Mountain, and the new Bubble Tower are daily.
Other events only happen on scheduled days, but the 4-H Performing Arts show, the Deep Fry Dash for Damar, and the Celebrity Milking Competition are just a few activities worth building your schedule around.
Miss Piggys Mac Daddy
Fruit Twister Paradise Pop
Fair Food
Studies have proven that food is the #1 reason people visit the Indiana State Fair. Traditional favorites like corn dogs, funnel cakes, elephant ears and buttered corn vie with new fair foods including a Buttermilk Wafflewich, the Winner Winner Chicken Dinner bowl, Miss Piggy's Mac & Cheese, and the Fruit Twister Paradise Pop for your dining dollars.
View more new fair foods!
Insider Tips for Visiting the Indiana State Fair
$3 Thursdays
August 5, 12 & 19 get $3 gate admission, $3 Midway rides and $3 food options at each food stand (items are smaller - that just means you can taste more!).
Parking & Transportation
Gat all the info you need - from directions and parking to transportation options and a venue map on the Indiana State Fair website.
The Hoosier Cruiser
This "Super Wheel" stands 150 feet tall and has 36 climate controlled gondolas. (Like the High Roller in Las Vegas or the London Eye.) $10 per ride, or $15 for a VIP experience. FYI: Midway wristbands are not valid on the Hoosier Cruiser.
Find it on the north side of the fairgrounds in Hoosier Spirit Park next to the Farm Bureau building.
Get all the information, safety procedures, as well as deals & discounts at IndianaStateFair.com
I am so excited to kick off 'State Fair Season' with the country's most famous state fair!
As the inspiration for the novel “State Fair” by Phil Strong, three motion pictures, a smash Broadway musical by Rodgers and Hammerstein, and loads of national accolades, the Iowa State Fair has a lot to recommend it.
Mindy Williamson is Marketing Director for the Iowa State Fair.
Iowa State Fair Memories
About the Iowa State Fair
History
Iowa is historically an agricultural state and even today is top in many of the commodities and food that people eat. One of the reason the fairs started was to improve genetics and agriculture in the state, which is actually a very innovative and forward-thinking way to solve agricultural issues. Farmers and agricultural leaders saw that the corn wasn't growing any taller or producing any more than it had been, so they thought, let's make it a competition of sorts. That's how it started, and today we still have a tall corn contest, which was part of the very first fairs. This is also true for livestock.
Crowds of people at the Iowa State Fair in Des Moines
The first location for the Iowa State Fair was actually Fairfield, Iowa, where they would get 7,000-8,000 people in wagons attending just through word of mouth. Compare that to today, when the Iowa State Fair, held in Des Moines, brings upwards of 1.1 million people with multiple channels of marketing. A mascot named Fairfield today pays tribute to the history of the Fair.
Today, new things are introduced at the Fair, but it's important to keep those traditions alive as well. Ulimately, it's a place for innovation. It's a place where people bring new products, whether that be shammies for your car or feeders for your livestock. The Fair sitll has that today, and they had it in 1854 when it started.
When is the Iowa State Fair?
At the beginning, the Fair was held in October and hopped around for a while in the September-October range. Eventually, it was moved back to August. It has been held everywhere from 7-11 days, but Fair officials have found that 11 days is the "sweet spot," with two weekends for people to attend. In 2021, the Iowa State Fair will run August 12-22.
Famous Features of the Fair
The Butter Cow is truly iconic, and it's said if you haven't seen the Butter Cow, there's really no proof that you've been to the Iowa State Fair. Over the history of the Fair, five different sculptors have sculpted these life-sized versions made solely of butter, as well as other butter sculptures.
Be prepared to wait in a long line for a close-up view of the butter cow
The buildings are also very iconic, dating back to 1886. The Grandstand was built in 1909 and has undergone some renovations but is still used today and is very impressive to guests, especially those from other states and countries who visit the Fair.
The Fair covers 450 acres, but roughly 160 of those acres are campgrounds. It started with tents and church groups and exhibitors and has grown to highly sought-out sites which are gifted to family members and currently have a 20-year waitlist.
Activities at the Fair
The Iowa State Fair appeals to so many people because there is literally something no matter your age, from animal buildings to the Varied Industries Building where you can buy almost anything to the amusement park.
Cow and calf in a livestock building
Each year, the Fair offers half a million dollars of free entertainment on stages throughout the Fairgrounds featuring nearly every genre, in addition to the amazing Grandstand acts. Each of the 11 nights features a Grandstand act, which sees 15,500 people in there for a sold-out show. These are usually pretty big-name acts, from Christian to country to pop to classic rock.
You don't have to look far to find fun competitions to enter in, from bubblegum blowing to cow chip throwing and everything in between. Some you can just show up and join and others you can...
Perhaps the quirkiest museum ever with the most tongue-twisting name is the World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things, housed in the Roadside Sideshow Expo in Lucas, Kansas.
Erika Nelson is the artist and creator of this once-traveling but now permanent exhibit.
Must see in Lucas Kansas!Click here to add this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest!
The Roadside Sideshow Expo in Lucas, Kansas
The Roadside Sideshow Expo is a new storefront in downtown Lucas, Kansas. In it, you'll find miniature versions of the "world's largest" things found throughout the U.S., such as the iconic "World's Largest Ball of Twine" found in Cawker City, Kansas.
Nelson visits the "largest" items, then she makes the "world's smallest" version of the "world's largest" thing. After doing this for 15 years, she has amassed the "World's Largest Collection of the World's Smallest Versions of the World's Largest Things."
Miniature mini golf - Meta Mini Golf Course
The "world's largest" roadside attractions are popular spots for families to break up long road trips. Nelson remembers visiting them as a kid, and when she could drive herself, she felt compelled to visit as many as she could. She began to realize that there was a reason people built these attractions, and the story behind them was either really important to the maker or the town or region.
Nelson began creating her own "souvenirs" after visiting each place, a miniature version of it. Then she realized what she was doing was actually a storytelling tool. It was a way to share these communities' stories. So she began gathering them, first in a mobile museum created out of a bus she would drive around, and now in a permanent exhibit in downtown Lucas.
Roadside Sideshow Expo
About Lucas -- The Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas
Lucas, Kansas, is home to fewer than 500 people but was designated the "Grassroots Art Capital of Kansas" in 1996 by the governor because of its folk art displays.
The Grassroots Art Center is situated across the street from the Roadside Sideshow Expo and collects stories of the townspeople who weren't necessarily trained in art but are making arts and crafts in town.The Garden of Eden was built by retired schoolteacher S.P. Dinsmore. Built over 22 years beginning in 1907, the garden is made of limestone and 113 tons of concrete and tells the history of the world, beginning with its creation. You can see 150 figures of various forms throughout the garden.Brant's Meat Market is a multi-generational meat market featuring Czech recipes, including sausages and beef jerky.Florence Deeble's Rock Garden contains sculptures from rocks that she collected on her journeys, beginning at age 50 and continuing for nearly 50 years.Don't miss the public restrooms in downtown Lucas called Bowl Plaza, made to look like the world's largest toilet.
Circus Wagons Sculpture
Learn more about Lucas, Kansas! Read about our visit to this unique Midwest town!
Where to Stay
You won't find traditional hotels in Lucas, but true to form, you can find a "quirkier" stay in the fascinating town. Stay in one of the Set in Stone cabins right at the edge of Lucas, or rent one of the Airbnb's, one of which is right across from the Garden of Eden. You can even stay at Horseshoe Lodge, a converted old folks' home.
The Indiana Medical History Museum is a fascinating spot when visiting Indianapolis. Learn more about the museum + tips for visiting.
Not all museums are huge places with priceless works of art or historical revelation. Some museums begin with a passion and a collection. The Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum is one of those places.
Karen Raymore, Executive Director for Explore Hocking Hills, provides details about this fascinating, wee museum.
The Pencil Sharpener Museum
The Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum is located at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center in Logan, Ohio. Logan is in the southeastern part of Ohio and sits along the Hocking River. It is just 48 miles southeast of Columbus.
History of the Museum
Reverend Paul Johnson began collection pencil sharpeners after his wife gave him a few. From there, his passion -- and his collection -- grew. People learned he loved pencil sharpeners and began giving them to him as gifts. He and his wife traveled internationally as missionaries, and some of the sharpeners came from those trips. In time, his collection began to overtake his house, so he built a shed on his property and created a tiny museum for his pencil sharpeners.
Rev. Johnson put up a sign in front of his museum with a phone number and said to call if you wanted a tour. He loved giving tours to visitors and showing off his collection. In fact, sometimes to add to his collection, he would have to buy a dozen or so of the same pencil sharpener to get one to put in his museum. He would give away the others to people who would come and visit.
About 10 years ago, the shed was moved to its current location at the Hocking Hills Regional Welcome Center. Before it was moved, Rev. Johnson and his wife, along with Karen Raymore from Explore Hocking Hills, photographed where every sharpener sat on every shelf so the museum was put back together exactly as it was originally.
Highlights of the Collection
The museum, which houses more than 3,500 different pencil sharpeners, is reputed to be the only museum of its kind in the world and the largest collection of its kind in the country. The museum contains one of the first pencil sharpeners ever invented, as well as the patent papers.
One of Rev. Johnson's most prized sharpeners was one depicting the Twin Towers. Being a veteran of World War II, he also had several military-themed pencil sharpeners. From farm implements to animals to surfboards, you can find just about any type of pencil sharpener in the museum.
Hours
The Paul A. Johnson Pencil Sharpener Museum and the Hocking HIlls Regional Welcome Center are open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday.
Other Activities in Hocking Hills, Ohio
Hocking Hills is most known for Hocking Hills State Park, which is the most visited state park in Ohio. It's actually six non-contiguous sites that are under the umbrella of the Hocking Hills State Park.
Ash Cave -- The largest recessed cave east of the Mississippi, Ash Cave has a horseshoe-shaped rim is 700 feet across as well as a runoff waterfall.Cantwell Cliffs -- One of the most remote areas of Hocking Hills, Cantwell Cliffs offers hikers both high rim trails that showcase breathtaking vistas and a valley trail, where hikers can feel dwarfed by the high cliffs. Cedar Falls -- With water plunging 50 feet, Cedar Falls is the most photographed waterfall in Ohio. Funny enough, it does not contain any cedar trees.Lake Logan -- A delight for fishermen, Lake Logan contains northern pike, bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish and saugeye. It also features picnic and swimming areas, as well as walking paths.Old Man's Cave -- Old Man's Cave travels along a gorge cut through the entire 150-foot-thick Blackhand sandstone. It features the Upper Falls, Upper Gorge, Middle Falls, Lower Falls and Lower Gorge. Whispering Cave/Hemlock Bridge -- The Hemlock Bridge Trail passes Whispering Cave and connects with the trail to Old Man's Cave and Cedar Falls.Rock House -- Rock House is the only "true" cave in Hocking HIlls,
The SPAM Museum in Austin, Minnesota is a highlight of any SE Minnesota road trip! Learn more about the museum + tips for visiting.
When you think about a coastal getaway you likely think of places on an ocean, or maybe the gulf. But Shelly Harms, Public Relations Director for Visit Sheboygan, is going to introduce you to the 'Malibu of the Midwest' - in Wisconsin!
Plan a Midwest beach vacation at Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri. .Guest Heather Brown, Executive Director at Lake of the Ozarks Convention & Visitors Bureau, shares where to find a 'beachy vibe' plus tips on activities & accommodations.
parasailing above Lake of the OzarksClick here to save this article to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest!
Where is Lake of the Ozarks?
Most people don't realize that Lake of the Ozarks is a gem in the middle of Missouri. A huge lake with over 1,200 miles of shoreline -- more than the state of California! -- Lake of the Ozarks covers more than 54,000 acres and multiple towns.
Plan a Midwest Beach Vacation at Lake of the Ozarks
Lake of the Ozarks is a commercialized lake, meaning that you can find restaurants, businesses, and homes right on the water. Some restaurants even have their own beaches. Add live music and you've got an awesome 'beachy vibes' feel right in the middle of Missouri.
versatile paddleboarding
Popular Restaurants with a Beach
Franky & Louie's Beachfront Bar and Grill -- Known as "The Key West in the Midwest," Franky & Louie's is located at the end of a no-wake cove and has become a staple on the lake. With white sand imported from the Gulf, the beach is full of entertainment for adults and kids.Dog Days Bar & Grill -- Sip on one of their famous frozen cocktails, enjoy a meal, or listen to a live band at this award-winning beach restaurant. The covered "TIKI" bar offers a second kitchen featuring a coastal cuisine menu.
Relax on 'Lake Time'
Lake of the Ozarks prides itself on being on "lake time," creating a relaxing environment where no one's in a hurry. Rent a boat and chill out on the lake. Sunbathe on the beach. Swim up to a bar at one of the waterfront restaurants. Go kayaking or parasailing. Rental shops and kiosks are located all over the lake.
ruins of the 'castle' at Ha Ha Tonka State Park
The Lake of the Ozarks also includes the largest state park in the state of Missouri, with two free public beaches. Another state park, Ha Ha Tonka State Park, can take up a day in itself because of all its features, including a spring, a natural rock bridge, cliffs, caves, and the remnants of a stone mansion modeled after a 16th-century European castle.
Explore 'The Strip'
Located in the City of Lake Ozark, Bagnell Dam Strip offers all the nostalgia of an old-time boardwalk, with fun for the whole family. Visit quaint shops and arcades. Try out an escape room. Enjoy water activities, mini golf, go carts, and even a ropes course.
Planning Tips for a Lake of the Ozarks Vacation
Read our tips for Planning Your First Lake of the Ozarks Vacation!
Check an events calendar before you go because Lake of the Ozarks hosts many huge events. If summer seems too busy, consider visiting in the fall. It isn't as busy but still offers fall festivals and beautiful vistas.
The area offers a variety of restaurant options, from seafood to Cajun to barbecue to steak and fast food. No matter where you go, expect to experience Southern hospitality.
Order the onion rings at Wobbly Boots BBQ!
Lake of the Ozarks offers so many different activities, so plan what you want to do before you go. Choose your accommodations based on your activities.
Types of Accommodations at Lake of the Ozarks
HotelsMotelsCondosRental HomesLarge ResortsSmall Family-Friendly ResortsCampgrounds
our campsite at Majestic Oaks Campground
Research Lake of the Ozarks accommodations with Trip Advisor
Plan Your Lake of the Ozarks Vacation
Lake of the Ozarks is the perfect Midwest getaway that doesn't have that Midwest feel. Whether it's a couple, group of friends, or family with kids, anyone can find plenty of laid-back "lake time" fun no matter where you visit on the lake.
Visit funlake.com to begin planning your beach getaway!
Plan a Midwest beach getaway in Door County, Wisconsin! As a peninsula surrounded by Lake Michigan you'll find dozens of beaches!
The final state focused episode of the Exploring the Midwest broadcast with guest is Matt MacLaren, Ohio State Tourism director.
Ohio is a state that I have only passed through. It is the furthest Midwest state from me, and it's a little more than a day trip. So I'm really excited to learn more about Ohio tourism.
Click here to save this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Ohio Misconceptions
There's the whole Iowa - Ohio - Idaho kind of confusion, and the States all could not be more different. Are there any other things that you think people maybe get wrong about Ohio?
When people come to Ohio, they have a great experience and they learn that we have so much to offer. Or as we like to say in Ohio, you can find it here. We have something for everyone.
Ohio. Find It Here. What does that say about the state?
Ohio. Find it Here is the experience. It's the joy, the happiness, the excitement of a trip to Ohio.
Marblehead Lighthouse
Ohio Travel Highlights
Lake Erie, one of the great lakes on the North, and actually the one that has more fish than any other of the great lakes.
City experiences, incredible cities like Cleveland, Columbus, Cincinnati, Toledo, Dayton, and Akron.
Epic events. In 2021 Ohio is hosting the NFL draft in Cleveland that happens on April 29th. Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductions in Cleveland, the Pro Football Hall of Fame inductions in Canton, and then the Solheim Cup, which is only in the United States every couple of years, is in Toledo this year.
Ohio's Distinct Areas
My guest today is Amanda Weibel, Communications Officer at Travel Wisconsin
My family travels to Wisconsin a few times each year. We love the northern part of the state in the hot summer months- Hayward & tubing on the Namekagan are an annual tradition. And in August you can usually find us in Milwaukee for Irish Fest.
Click here to save this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest!
Wisconsin is Best Known For...
Most people know Wisconsin for cheese.
This way to cheese!
Wisconsin produces 600 varieties of cheese, which is more than double the amount of cheese produced by the runner-up state, California.
Wisconsin Travel Highlights
Eating in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is the largest producer of Cranberries in the world, producing 60 percent of the world’s supply of the fruit. Be sure to check out the Cranberry Highway!
Wisconsin is also a leading producer of Ginseng in the United States.
Regional Wisconsin Favorites
Boil Over at Rowley's Bay Resort. Photo credit- Door County Visitor Bureau
Door County fish boil - and cherry pie!Sheboygan is the bratwurst capitalGlendale is the root beer capital of the universe (it's the home of Sprecher)Madison & Milwaukee have excellent restaurants and many James Beard award-winning or nominated chefsFarm to fork (because... Midwest)Find a pizza farmWisconsin Supper Clubs are an institutionBreweries, cideries, distilleries....
Wisconsin Outdoor Adventure
Wisconsin has fabulous outdoor activities- especially the miles of Great Lakes coastline! From the Apostle Islands to the Door County peninsula - it has a similar feel to the northeastern or northwestern parts of the US.
Wisconsin has over 1,000 miles of Great Lakes and Mississippi River shoreline, and over 15,000 inland lakes.
Lighthouse in the Apostle Islands
Apostle Island National LakeshoreTubing on the Namakagan in HaywardAdventure tours in RIB boats skimming the waves in Door COuntykayakinghikingcycling4x4 Segways
Wisconsin is an outdoor adventure mecca, with 49 state parks, 15 state forests, 44 state trails, two National Scenic Trails plus many more county and local parks and trails.
Golf in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is the premiere golf destination in the US, and one of the most accessible, as the state is home to 10 of Golf Digest’s top 100 public courses (and around 500 public courses total).
Golfing at House on the Rock Resort
Nine of these top courses are within 3 hours from Milwaukee airport, and your car would barely register 500 miles on a road trip to visit all nine in one vacation.
One of these courses, Whistling Straits, is host to the 2020 Ryder Cup in September this year, so golfers should time a visit this summer to play in advance of the pros this year.
City Getaways in Wisconsin
Madison and Milwaukee are the largest cities in Wisconsin. In addition to the incredible food scene there is plenty of arts and culture.
For outdoor recreation, Milwaukee has a state park in the city. There are tons of city parks and trails too. Madison is located on an isthmus, so surrounded by two lakes, and has an Arboretum.
And Green Bay - home of the Packers. Tour Lambeau Field then stay for a game.
Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee
Brands you know from Wisconsin
Wisconsin is Home to top outdoor recreation brands such as Johnson Outdoors, Wigwam, Trek Bicycles, Saris, Kohler, and Harley Davidson; the ties from manufacturing product to experiencing it run deep in Wisconsin.
Another well-known name that hails from Wisconsin
Famed architect Frank Lloyd Wright was born in Wisconsin’s rugged Driftless Region and spent his boyhood summers working his uncle’s farm in the small village of Spring Green (population of 1,641) and eventually built his own famous home and studio, Taliesin, just a mile away. Wisconsin’s Frank Lloyd Wright Trail takes travelers on a self-guided architectural tour through nine counties in southern Wisconsin.
As you drive west across Kansas you begin to understand the sentiment the inspired Brewster Higley to pen 'My Western Home' - later known as 'Home on the Range'.
My guest today is Colby Sharples Terry, PR & Communications Manager for Kansas Tourism.
Click here to add this to your Midwest travel board on Pinterest
Kansas Misconceptions
Kansas is a state that, if you enter along the eastern border and the Missouri River, feels very urban, but as you continue west you really feel that wide open space where you can, at times, feel like you are completely alone.
People tend to think that Kansas is flat and boring - but they couldn't be more wrong!
Kansas Tourism Highlights
Monument Rocks
Little Jerusalem Badlands State ParkMonument RocksMount Sunflower, the highest point in KansasFlint HillsTall Grass Prairie National PreserveCivil War and Underground Railroad historyStrata salt mine in HutchinsonEllenwood speakeasy and tunnels
Cities & Towns in Kansas
Keeper of the Plains, Wichita
Wichita is the largest city in Kansas - great food, breweries, saloons & outdoor experiencesLucas is the Grassroots Art CapitalWilson, the Czech capitol of KansasLinsborg is known as Little Sweden USANicodemus was a town settled by freed slaves
Kansas Food
Barbeque Ribs in Kansas City, Kansas
Kansas City BarbequeKansas City Kansas taco trailChicken wars - Chicken Annie's vs Chicken Mary'sSteakFarm to Table
Kansas Center of the USA
US Center Chapel
The geographical center of the 'lower 48' is in Kansas. The small church at the site never closes.
And, not far from that you'll find the log cabin where Home on the Range was written.
Top 3 Kansas Events in 2021
Santa Fe Trail 200th Anniversary
2021 Medicine Lodge Peace Treaty Pageant (This is an every 3 year event)
49th Annual Walnut Valley Festival
Request Your Kansas Travel Guide
Choose to get the Kansas Travel Guide or one of the specialty guides at TravelKS.com
Unfortunately Illinois Tourism was unable to join me for this episode of the broadcast. So I recruited 3 fabulous Illinois travel writers to join me today.
Cindy Ladage is a book author, blogger, and a farmer's wife with 3 grown children and 2 grandchildren. Dig into her passion of agricultural history at Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl.
Karthika Gupta is a culture and travel writer, photographer and podcaster based in the Chicagoland area but originally from Bombay, India. Through her content creation skills she aims to bring cultural narratives to the forefront. She is also the founder of CulturallyOurs, a platform that explores lifestyle, food, art, travel and culture from around the world through retreats, narratives, stories and conversations.
Melissa Schwartz has been writing about hiking, small business and localart throughout Illinois since 2011 on her travel blog A Little Time and aKeyboard, where she presents her audience with engaging and enriching local stories and personalities.
Click here to save this article to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest!
Misconceptions About Illinois
When most people think of Illinois their thoughts immediately go to Chicago. And while Chicago is a great city, there is so much more to the state.
Buttercrust Chicago Deep Dish Pizza at Lou Malnati's.
Illinois has a lot of agriculture, serves more than deep dish pizza, and has plenty of natural places to explore.
Illinois Travel Tips
Illinois Cities
Explore Chicago's suburbs for terrific cultural experiencesCollege towns like Bloomington/ Normals and Champagne/ Urbana have grown to vibrant cities
Illinois Agricultural History
Covered bridge at Lake of the Woods in Champaign
Peru Plow Works in PeruDe Immigrant Windmill in FultonVisit Goat Tower Farm near FindlayRyan's Round Barn in Kewanee, Illinois. This beautiful round barn is part of the Johnson Sauk Trail Park. The architecture is astounding and the agricultural history is too.
Small Towns in Illinois
Small town and mid-tier cities that reflect that Midwest charm - slower pace and great hospitality.
Outdoor Recreation in Illinois
All the Fu Dogs face their mate, except those at the end of the garden. They sit quietly, their gaze on the House of the Golden Buddahs.
Severson Dells in Rockford Kankakee River State Park in BourbonnaisPere Marquette State Park in GraftonBlackhawk historic sites near the Quad CitiesShawnee National Forest & Garden of the Gods
Illinois Art Scene
Route 66 mural in Pontiac
Jacoby Arts Center in AltonGalena has a thriving arts sceneRockford has nice murals that were just added in 2019.Quad City Arts in Rock IslandAndersonville Galleria in ChicagoNaperville has a fantastic public art walk with dozens of art pieces –sculptures, mosaics, murals and more. Effingham has 29 sculptures! Bloomington-Normal is also known for public art including a 6-ft tall ear of corn, murals and an incredible Lincoln sculpture. One fun roadtrip where art can be highlighted is Marshall Illinois where they have several murals to enjoy along with a Lincoln Highway museum (if open).
Abraham Lincoln Illinois History
Lincoln Douglas Debate Statue in Alton
The Lincoln Douglas Debates sites are fun and something unique to Illinois.There are 7 sites. Some of the squares are pretty nice and you learn a lot about the debates. The sculptures are incredible! Plus, if you go to Freeport you can get ice cream right next door!
Foods to Eat in Illinois
Cozy Dog exterior Photo credit: Christ Jacobs
Chicago hot dogChicago deep dish pizzaEthiopian cuisine in ChicagoCozy Dog on Route 66Lagomarcino's chocolates in MolineRainbow Cone in Beverly (Chicago)Ponyshoe in Springfield
3 Big Events in Illinois in 2021
Half Century of Progress working vintage farm show in Rantoul
Legacy Adventure Park in Lockport. It is 66 acres of forest trails, lakes, cliff side views,
Jody speaks with Stephen Foutes, the Director of the Missouri Division of Tourism.
Missouri is interesting in that the 2 largest cities are located mid-state, on opposite sites, directly opposite each other. And, as a state that is 'taller than it is wide' Missouri seems to have a lot of very rural area.
Click here to save this article to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Missouri Misconceptions
Missouri is more than 'fly over' country! From the beautiful Ozark mountains in the southern part of the state, to the vibrant cities, and charming small towns - you'll find a lot to enjoy about the Show Me State!
Missouri Travel Tips
Explore the cities
Kansas City and St. Louis book-end the state on I-70, Springfield is the largest metro area in the southwest corner, Columbia is in the middle of the state, and Jefferson City is the state capital.
Gateway Arch and riverboat
Discover Missouri's small towns
Hermann is a charming town with german heritage, set in Missouri's wine region.
Hannibal is the home of Mark Twain. On the Mississippi River there are plenty of places to explore.
St. Genevieve, which is home to Missouri's oldest European settlement; that has a lot of French heritage and cultural opportunities there.
Hit the Trail
Highway 36, across the northern part of the state is the "Way of American Genius" because people like Mark Twain, Walt Disney, JC Penny have ties to different communities along there. The home of sliced bread is in Chillicothe.
Devil's Elbow
Route 66 crosses Missouri from St. Louis on the eastern edge where it enters the state, and then it kind of exits in Southwestern, Missouri down by the Joplin area. There's a lot to see and do along the way- Merrimack caverns near Stanton, and communities like Rolla and Saint Robert and Fort Leonardwood. And Springfield of course.
Katy Trail State Park is really a great outdoors trail for people to enjoy whether they enjoy walking, running, jogging, or if they're cyclists. It is the country's longest rails to trails project at about 240 miles.
Katy Trail State Park
Missouri State Parks
Missouri State Parks have more than 1,000 miles of hiking trails. Missouri also has mountain biking trails, and off-road vehicle trails.
Missouri Waterways
From the Mississippi River at the east and the Missouri River at the west, and plenty of rivers and lakes in between, you'll find plenty of watersport in Missouri.
Exploring the Ozarks
beauty of the Ozarks near Branson
The southern half of the state is part of the Ozarks.
From the massive Lake of the Ozarks to showy Branson - there is a lot to discover in the Ozark Mountains.
Fishing, boating, golf, hiking, and, of course, Branson entertainment.
Missouri Food
KC BBQ is something people are sure to seek out when visiting the state. St. Louis has also become known for its barbecue. Really, you'll find great barbeque all around the state.
Gettin' Basted BBQ in Branson
130 wineries - and quite a few wine trails.
You'll also find craft breweries and distilleries.
Missouri History
Louis and Clark expedition to explore the Western half of the United States began in the St Louis area. The Gateway Arch is a nod to that expedition and the country's westward westward expansion.
The 18th and Vine district in Kansas City is home to the American jazz museum and the Negro leagues baseball museum.
The 1904 world's fair was held in St. Louis.
There's so many museums across Missouri that are dedicated to people like Mark Twain, Walt Disney, Winston Churchill, the Pony Express, George Washington Carver.
Alley Spring and Grist Mill
You will also find Civil War battlefields, covered bridges, and old mills.
If you're into history, Missouri is going to have something for you.
3 Missouri Events for 2021
Missouri Bicentennial
Reopening of Harry S Truman Presidential Library & Museum - this was the first Preside...
Today's guest is Jenn Gjerde, the current marketing manager for the Nebraska Tourism Commission. A former TV news reporter, Jenn worked all across the state of Nebraska covering record flooding, elections and more before being hired by the commission in 2015.
Click here to save this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest!
Nebraska Misconceptions
Like most people, I've driven across Nebraska - east to west and back again - and it is a long (long) trek. I've also ridden Amtrak across the state - but that takes place overnight (both ways). Though Interstate 80 is the most direct path across the state, it certainly doesn't share many amazing highlights.
People need to remember that the interstate and train systems were built in the flattest part of the state they could find for ease so it doesn't show off a range of beauty at all.
Many people think Nebraska is just one large flat cornfield, but the reality is Nebraska has beautiful bluffs that line the eastern part of the state along the Missouri River. And then the central part of the state is natural prairie, which is the beautiful Sand Hills. And then when you get to the Western part of the state, you find the Buttes and the area that leads into the Rockies and the Badlands. So it's actually very hilly as you get further West in Nebraska.
Chimney Rock
If you go into some old pioneer diaries, Nebraska has western landmarks documented in a lot of ways. One is Chimney Rock, very popular tourism destination, but also well-documented with pioneers. Today Chimney rock has a brand new visitor center that actually opened just last year.
Visit Nebraska Travel Highlights
Sandhill Crane Migration
Sandhill Crane Migration - every spring more than half a million Sand Hill cranes will roost on the Platte River valley, which is Central Nebraska.If people love birding, they can also come and see the mating rituals of prairie chickens or bald eagles on Lake McConaughy in Western Nebraska. There's lots of different birding options for people.Toadstool Geologic Park in the very, very far Northwest part of Nebraska. It's the 'entryway to the Badlands', but you do the hike there you'd literally feel like you're walking on the moon because it's just so unique. There is also an active dig site on a Bison bone bed.
Visiting Nebraska's Cities
Bob the Bridge
Omaha
Omaha is Nebraska's largest city and it's probably most well known for two things. One being the home of the College World Series and two the Omaha's Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, of course ranked one of the top zoos in the world.
Lincoln
Lincoln has beautiful state capital building that is an architectural wonder. One fun fact about it is that it was built debt-free. So they really had a plan when they built it. We're also a unicameral system, which is extremely unique. So we don't have a house and a Senate. We have one party and I think, I believe we're the only state in the continental US like that. So it's a fun government lesson if you need one.
Lincoln also has a children's zoo, which is greatly different from the Omaha zoo, but it's a great day trip and it's very hands-on. Lots of hands-on experiences.
Boys Town was started by Father Flanagan in 1917, and it became a national organization for saving children and healing families. And it was made famous in the 1930s by a movie about Boys Town that won an Oscar.
Quirky Nebraska Sites
Carhenge
Carhenge is a fun stop. It's a replica of Stonehenge made out of cars. It was built in the late '80s. It's just sculptures of old car parts. It's not just the car hinge circle anymore. There's other sculptures that are made out of car parts and people love to just stop there.
Just a mile down the road from Carhenge is the Nebraska Rest Area, which is a hay bale rest stop with a toilet sitting on it. Super quirky.
Bob is the bridge that connects Omaha to Iowa and it's a pedestrian bridge and you can literally stand in ...
Unfortunately Minnesota Tourism was unable to join me for this episode of the broadcast. So I recruited 3 fabulous Minnesota travel writers to join me today.
Stacy Brooks is a freelance journalist and blogger who grew up in Duluth and currently lives in the Twin Cities metro area. Her writing has been published in Midwest Living, Minnesota Monthly, and the Minneapolis Star Tribune, and she blogs about food and travel at tangledupinfood.com.
Lisa Baker is a mom of 2 wonderful kids living in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area. She is always seeking great deals and better, affordable ways of enjoying life with her family. After her first child was born in 2008, she created her blog "Twin Cities Frugal Mom" to share deals and freebies, tips for saving money, fun things to do on a budget in Minnesota and around the Midwest.
Susan, the voice behind This Big Wild World adventure travel blog, believes that life is better with adventure. Her mission is to help you discover your sense of adventure by sharing tips, resources and destination guides from close to home in Minnesota and all around this big wild world.
Click here to save this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Minnesota Misconceptions
I lived in the twin Cities for 10 years and traveled throughout the state for my job. I spent time 'up North' in the summer at lakes houses and in the winter snowmobiling (ok, I only did that once). Minnesota is a state that embraces the outdoors.
Misconception 1: It's cold all the time. It's really not! Summer in Minnesota is amazing!
Misconception 2: It's all outdoor adventure.Minnesota has some vibrant urban areas!
Misconception 3: Not a lot for families.There are so many terrific family entertainment options - both indoor & outdoor!
Things to See & Do in Minnesota
Wide open spaces
Itasca State Park/headwaters of the Mississippi
Mankato - Minneopa State Park is known for live bison as well as waterfalls that are easy to access
Voyageurs National Park - Over 1/3 of the park is only accessible by water!
Join the Minnesota State Park Passport or Hiking Club - Earn a stamp at each of the 75 state parks and recreation areas. It's a fun way to explore the state and enjoy our incredible state parks!
Voyageurs National Park and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness certified as International Dark Sky Places:
Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW) and Voyageurs National Park (VNP) are new places certified by the International Dark-Sky Association (IDA) in 2020. Spanning more than 1 million acres, the BWCAW is the largest place in the world to earn International Dark Sky Sanctuary certification. Voyageurs National Park also joined the ranks as a newly certified International Dark Sky Park, offering primetime night sky viewing.
According to the IDA, BWCAW and Voyageurs hail some of the darkest skies in the Midwest. Minnesota’s dark sky certification endeavors are part of a larger regional initiative encompassing Superior National Forest (including the BWCAW), Voyageurs National Park, Grand Portage National Monument and numerous Minnesota state forest lands. Starry skies are just one of the great reasons why Northern Minnesota was recently featured as one of Travel + Leisure’s 50 best places to travel in 2021.
Try chasing Northern Lights
Off the beaten path destinations
Photo courtesy of Lisa Baker @Twin Cities Frugal Mom
Austin is 2 hours south of the Twin Cities and my family visited here for the first time in October. There is SO much to do here for free or on a budget. We loved the famous SPAM museum (which is free!), the Jay C. Hormel Nature Center (also free), the Hormel Historic Home, and the cozy hotels including the NEW Cobblestone Suites hotel we stayed at.
Walk across the headwaters of the Mississippi River - At Itasca State Park, the Mississippi River starts as just a small stream. Walking across it is right of passage for any Minnesotan!
Jody is joined by Kim Schmidt, Communications Manager for North Dakota Tourism
Moderating the broadcast chat is Alicia Underlee Nelson, a freelance writer and photographer who wrote “North Dakota Beer: A Heady History,” penned the North Dakota section of the new “Midwest Road Trip Adventures” anthology and co-hosts the Travel Tomorrow podcast. Follow her adventures in the Midwest and around the world at Prairie Style File.
Click here to add this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Be Lengedary in North Dakota
I absolutely love the slogan 'Be Legendary'. It offers a feeling of epic adventure- something North Dakota has offered visitors for years.
But it's a state that people tend to put off visiting...
North Dakota is well positioned and ready to welcome travelers when they are ready to visit. Our motto has been to “Follow your curiosity, not the crowds” even prior to the pandemic. Our wide-open spaces and outdoor recreation opportunities are perfect for those seeking the perfect getaway or road trip.
Misconceptions about ND
North Dakota is not the least visited state but we do have communities that embrace the fact that many travelers save ND as their last state.
Fargo has a “Saved the Best for Last” club with photo op and T-shirts.
The Bismarck-Mandan CVB also has a photo op space so those that are looking to fulfill that bucket list, 2021 is the year to check it off the list!
Things to See & Do in North Dakota
Theodore Roosevelt National Park - Visitors to the three units of Theodore Roosevelt National Park find the dramatic scenery and recreational opportunities awe-inspiring.
Bike, hike or run all 144 miles of the Maah Daah Hey Trail — all at once or in return visits. It follows the Little Missouri River through rugged Badlands, passing by or through all three units of the national park.
Larger than life sculptures – Home to the “World’s Largest Buffalo” and “World’s Largest Holstein”.
The Enchanted Highway is a collection of the world's largest scrap metal sculptures constructed at intervals along a 32-mile stretch of two-lane highway in the southwestern part of the U.S. state of North Dakota.
Road trip itineraries customized by route or theme – from the Cowboy Up tour to off-the beaten path trips, something for the “foodies” to scenic byways and backways, there’s one for everyone.
The Pembina Gorge is a 12,500-acre year-round recreation area. Explore it on your ATV or dirt bike, by foot or on horseback. Recreation in the Pembina Gorge consists of canoeing, hiking, biking horseback riding, downhill and cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, hunting, wildlife observing and birding, guaranteeing year round family entertainment. At least 65 different natural diversity features have been documented to be in the Pembina Gorge, including 30 plant species and 21 animal species, which are categorized as "rare" in the state. They also recently opened a Mountain Bike Terrain Park within the recreation area.
State Parks – Outdoor recreation complete with unique sleeps that include yurts, tipis and even covered wagons for lodging experiences.
Stand in two nations at once — one foot in Canada and one in the United States at the International Peace Garden north of Dunseith. It’s a giant botanical garden celebrating peace between the two nations with more than 150,000 flowers planted each year.
Look out for that mastodon! Visit the North Dakota Heritage Center and State Museum in Bismarck to see prehistoric creatures, Native American history and more. If art is your thing, see the nationally accredited Plains Art Museum in Fargo with a mural by internationally renowned artist and North Dakota native, James Rosenquist.
Lewis and Clark Trail - The Lewis and Clark Expedition, also known as the Corps of Discovery, made its way through North Dakota twice between 1804 and 1806. They spent more time in North Dakota than anywhere else on their journey a...
Today's guest is Dave Lorenz, Vice President of Travel Michigan - better known as Pure Michigan if you follow the state's social media accounts
Moderating the broadcast chat today is Amy Piper - publisher of travel blog Follow the Piper and author of the Michigan chapter of the new book Midwest Road Trip Adventures.
Click here to add this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Pure Michigan
A brand is really just a reflection of a product in this case, a destination. Michigan is a place with natural abundant beauty, friendly people, and unique places and experiences to offer. So when you see an ad or you hear about Pure Michigan, you say, "yeah, that really is what it's like.".
Michigan Misconceptions
If you were to ask somebody, you know, far, far away from the Midwest, maybe international audience somewhere about, what do they know about Michigan? They're likely going to say Detroit.
And it used to be, they might say bad things about Detroit but people are starting to understand that Detroit's really turned it around in the last 15 years and it's just a great place to live, work and play. It's vibrant, really incredible to see what's happening there.
Flint's kind of the same way.
So that used to be the story that people would kind of think negatively about Michigan because the only thing they'd ever heard were bad news stories coming out of our biggest city, a city that had gone through, you know, decades of challenge and transition because of a change in the world economy. And we just weren't prepared. Well, we got prepared and the people of Detroit said, we're tired of this. We wanna turn this thing around and they did.
At the same time, the rest of the state probably was a little bit ahead of Detroit in kinda, you know, getting ready for that next, who we are. At the same time that most of the state has always been, you know, filled with natural experiences, you know, four seasons of fun. So it kinda all came together.
And today, I think partially because of the Pure Michigan campaign and partially because people have been traveling here, experiencing what we have in reality in that word of mouth gets out. And because of travel writers and such coming in here and telling the real story of Michigan, people now see Michigan in a different way.
They see Michigan in what I think is a truthful, you know really emotionally connected way. It really is a pretty unique place with incredible destinations and so much diversity of people and places.
Two Peninsulas, One Pure Michigan
If you look at the back of your hand, north of the knuckles is almost all small towns, beautiful natural experiences to offer.
Michigan has 11,000 lakes and many of them most of them are north of that line.
The upper peninsula (UP) is just a nature lover's paradise.
And then the lower part of the state, still a lot of rural, a lot of small towns, beach towns, things like that. But most of our bigger cities are in that area. Like the beautiful city of Detroit, that's gone through this great transition.
But because the state is two peninsulas, there are a couple of different personalities.
The UPers really pride themselves on independence and every so often there's talk about breaking away from the rest of the state. And they're really into celebrating the kind of the rustic nature of nature.
Where the lower peninsula, a lot of people like to go to the UP to experience the out of doors temporarily and then kind of go back to their city environments later.
Michigan's Great Lakes
Michigan touches on four of the five Great lakes. Michiganders are the type of people who like to be on the water, in the water, under the water but whatever it is, we're so connected to the Great Lakes.
Fishing here is huge. Boating. You're never more than five miles away from a major lake or stream. Some of the best fly fishing that there is in the country.
Today's guest is Ciara Rounds, Global Media & Public Relations Representative for the South Dakota Department of Tourism.
Broadcast moderator is freelance writer-photographer Mike Whye who has been writing about travel across the world but primarily the Upper Midwest since 1990. His articles and photographs have appeared in numerous magazines, newspapers and state tourism productions. He lived for a couple years in Grand Forks, then lived near Sioux Falls for nine years and continues to travel across the states. Mike is the author of The Dakotas Off the Beaten Path.
Click here to save this to your Midwest travel board on Pinterest!
About the South Dakota Landscape
South Dakota is a brilliant mix of plains, canyon, and mountains. It's a state that isn't defined by one thing - though there is something that people tend to focus on when considering a South Dakota vacation...
Misconception About South Dakota
While Mount Rushmore is a defining piece of South Dakota - it isn't the only thing to do in the state!
What to See & Do in South Dakota
South Dakota is a large state- it takes approximately 6 hours to cross, west to east, along Interstate 90. You will drive past farm fields and plains and into mountains.
We found these Big Horn Sheep near Notch Trail
The Badlands (National Park) are nearly indescribable. Some spots feel otherworldly. It's a terrific place to go hiking or camp for a night or two.
The Black Hills are the beginning of the 'mountain region' of the US. Terrific spots for hiking and biking. Custer State Park and, of course, Mount Rushmore.
Sioux Falls area: Palisades State Park, the Washington Pavilion museum, and state parks for outdoor recreation.
In the middle of the state: water adventure on the Missouri River and a fun, kitchy stop at Wall Drug.
The Ingalls Homestead and DeSmet, South Dakota, were the location of most of the Little House books by Laura Ingalls Wilder.
Other historic sites include 'Wild West' and gold rush history, Native American lands and cultural sites, and Lewis & Clark trails.
The Mammoth Site is an active paleontological dig site in Hot Springs.
I-90 stretches the width of South Dakota and with five National and State Scenic Byways covering hundreds of miles make it the perfect road tripping state.
South Dakota has 56 State Parks and recreation areas and 6 National Parks Service sites, so there is a lot of opportunity for wide open spaces and outdoor adventure.
National Park Sites in South Dakota
Mount Rushmore National MemorialWind Cave National ParkJewel Cave national MonumentBlack Hills National ForestBadlands National ParkMinuteman Missile SiteLewis & Clark National Historic Trail
Native American History in South Dakota
Crazy Horse memorial and cultural center
Pow Wows take place across the state during the summer.
Cities in South Dakota
Sioux Falls in the eastern part of the state and Rapid City at the western edge. Both cities have beautiful art scenes and public sculptures.
South Dakota Highlights in 2021
50th Anniversary of Laura Ingalls Wilders Pageant10th Anniversary of Main Street Square in Rapid CityNew adventures have been added at Rush Mountain Adventure Park
Order your South Dakota vacation guide at TravelSouthDakota.com.
Find More South Dakota Articles on Family Rambling
Unfortunately Kentucky Tourism was unable to join me for this episode of the broadcast. So I recruited my friend, Kentucky resident and travel writer, Nedra McDaniel.
Nedra loves nothing more than sharing a first time adventure with family and friends. Her website, Adventure Mom shares experiences and encourages her readers to try something new, face fear, and step outside their comfort zone.
Click here to add this to your Midwest Travels board on Pinterest
Is Kentucky in the Midwest?
Many would say no. Kentucky has a decidedly southern feel. From the delicious comfort food and the smooth Bourbon, to it's mild temperatures and overall relaxed pace.
But if you look at Kentucky on a map it is no further east than Ohio and no further south than Missouri, which nestles it neatly into the Midwest. In fact, the Midwest Travel Journalists Association includes Kentucky in their Midwest region for authors and destinations.
horses graze at Gainsway Farm
Plan Your Kentucky Adventure
Northern Kentucky
Northern Kentucky pretty much identifies a lot with the Cincinnati region, just because of the proximity. We are so close. So we are definitely a little bit more unique than the other areas of the state because we're so close to and we live on the border. So, you know, we have the Ohio river separating us. And so, it's a different kind of vibe up in Northern Kentucky than in different parts of the state.
Kentucky Bourbon
Kentucky is the birthplace of Bourbon, crafting 95 percent of the world’s supply. Only the Bluegrass State has the perfect natural mix of climate, conditions and pure limestone water necessary for producing the world’s greatest Bourbon.There are now 2 barrels for every person living in the Commonwealth. (also, I love that Kentucky isn't a state but a Commonwealth)
Makers Mark Distillery
Bourbon Trail
So the bourbon trail has 18 stops on it. How much time should to expect to spend visit that?
You need a decent amount of time, because it takes a little bit to get to some of the distilleries. It's not like they're located necessarily right on top of each other. If you plan on drinking at each distillery consider a tour, let them worry about the driving. And then you can just kind of relax and enjoy each one as you go.
So you could do a few in a day. It just kind of depends on your preference and how fast or slow you want to experience it.
Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville recently became the 18th stop on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail®.21c Museum Hotel co-founders Steve Wilson and Laura Lee Brown are the visionaries behind new agricultural dining and bourbon experience at Hermitage Farm, Barn8 Restaurant & Bourbon Bar, which opened in spring 2020.Several new distillery projects are in the works, including African American-owned Fresh Bourbon Company in Lexington, as well as Log Still Distillery in Nelson County, Clermont Distilling Co. in Bullitt County, Old Samuels Distillery in Bardstown and Horse Solider Bourbon in Somerset.The Kentucky Bourbon Festival® is set to return September 16-19, 2021 to Bardstown for a celebration of its 30th anniversary.
Outdoor Activities in Kentucky
Kentucky abounds with outdoor recreation opportunities, including activities such as camping, fishing, hunting, motorcycling, off-roading, snow sports, trail sports, water sports, wheel sports and wildlife viewing.
Pine Mountain
Climbers come from all over the world to climb at Red River Gorge. You can kind of experience it however you want at your own pace as well. So you could take the chairlift up to the top of natural bridge, or you could hike up there. They also have an underground cave that you can do clear kayaks, or you could do a stand paddle board. They have zip-lining there. At Cumberland Falls. you can stand up paddle. Do a tour there to the base of the falls. And you can do e-bike rides that will take you over to different falls in the area.
Jody chats with guest Amy Howell, Director of Communications for Visit Indiana
Moderating our chat today (on the live broadcast) is Lori LeRoy, family travel blogger at Maps, Memories & Motherhood - and proud Hoosier!
or watch this episode on YouTube
Click here to save this to your Midwest Travel board on Pinterest
Where is Indiana?
Indiana is on the far eastern edge of the Midwest- in both the eastern and central time zones. Which can get a little confusing when you drive in! I was late for the start of a writers retreat a couple years ago because I forgot to check if it was in EST or CST!
What misconceptions do people have about Indiana before visiting?
Back in the day there was a slogan for an attraction that said there's only corn in Indiana. Indiana does produce a lot of corn but there is so much more than that. And, the corn actually leads to great agritourism destinations.
Indiana is on Lake Michigan. So Great Lakes up North, lots of fun, summer activities the Indiana Dunes National Park is a top destination. When you drive south of there, you get urban and suburban - the capital city of Indianapolis has everything that an urban city would offer.
And if you keep driving South you get to the rolling hills of Indiana, which is fantastic for hiking, biking, any kind of outdoor activity. And we go all the way down to the Ohio River.
Rent a canoe, kayak, or bike and enjoy the rivers that run through the heart of Fort Wayne.
Indiana topography ranges from hills to lakes to rivers, and forests. Probably the biggest misconception that there's nothing to do. But with all of that there's something for everyone.
What is a Hoosier?
The word Hoosier has been traced back to the Anglo-Saxon word hoo meaning high or hill but honestly, nobody can really say what it truly is but it is the definition of a native, or just somebody from Indiana.
Indiana's Greatest Hits
INDIANA DUNES NATIONAL PARKThe nation’s newest National Park is here in Indiana, with 15 miles of shoreline on a backdrop of soaring sand dunes. Visitors love conquering the 3 Dune Challenge, and they can also go kiteboarding, dive a sunken ship, or rent a boat to take on Lake Michigan. It’s a must-do for hikers, birdwatchers and those who just love the beach.
DESTINATION DINING & DRINKING It doesn’t take long to get from farm to fork when the restaurant is at the farm! Indiana is home to several destination dining establishments, and you can taste and tour over 300 wineries, breweries and distilleries.
INDIANAPOLISA family playland by day and an exciting social scene by night! So whether you’re exploring the world’s largest children’s museum or tasting food prepared by a James Beard-nominated chef, it’s a trip to remember. There’s also tons for sports fans, from touring the Indianapolis Motor Speedway or NCAA Hall of Champions to taking in an Indianapolis Colts game and more.
COLUMBUS ARCHITECTURESee why camera-toting visitors come from all over the world to tour the art and architecture of this welcoming city. Churches, homes and other buildings were designed by internationally renowned architects such as I.M. Pei, who also designed the pyramid at the Louvre. Public art is around every corner, also created by well-known sculptors like Swiss artist Jean Tinguely.
WORLD-CLASS RACING & PRO SPORTS“The Greatest Spectacle in Racing” happens once a year, but visitors can tour the famed oval speedway all year long. There’s also professional football, basketball, baseball and soccer plus the NCAA Hall of Champions.
STUNNING STATE PARKSIndiana is home to a diverse array of State Parks, seven with beautiful Inns. There are hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, biking and horseback riding, as well as large lakes for boating and fishing. All offer campsites and cabins for staying close to nature.
AMISH CULTUREThe Amish communities in Indiana welcome tourists with delicious food,
Travel Iowa
Great information from Jessica O'Riley. Jessica is the Tourism Communications Manager for the Iowa Tourism Office.
or Watch this episode on YouTube
Click here to add this to your Midwest Travel Board on Pinterest
Iowa Surprises & Misconceptions
Iowa's my home state, so I have heard probably everything anybody could say about Iowa. You know, most often the confusion is the whole Iowa, Idaho, Ohio thing, which I find funny and probably people from Idaho and Ohio find it funny too, because we just can't understand how anyone can get the states confused. But then there's also the misconception that Iowa is just all farmland, all flat and not a lot happens here. Let's blow those misconceptions just completely out of the water.
Iowa is not flat, I promise you. The northeast corner in fact, is where the glacier missed. So if you want to see soaring river bluffs that's your neck of the woods right there.
The only remaining Frank Lloyd Wright designed hotel in the world, that's right in the world, is located right here in Mason City, Iowa. We also have the Loess Hills out West, which is comprised of this gritty soil. The only other place it gets to the same depths is in China.
Iowa has a lot going for it. Obviously, has a lot of farm land. We feed a lot of the country, but it has so many other attributes that people might not think they would find.
Adorable baby calves
What are the kinds of things that people are interested in when they come to Iowa? What are they looking for and what kind of things might they find that they might not expect.
We've found that people don't have a negative impression of Iowa. They just often don't have one. Like, they haven't considered Iowa. It's not even on their radar screen or they're like, I don't know enough about it to have an opinion.
But if we can get them here to experience all we have to see and do they are blown away by all our opportunities.
The High Trestle Trail Bridge in central Iowa is world renowned for its architecture and stunning views of the river valley.
I'm lucky enough that the High Trestle Trail actually begins in the town I live in; this is the trail that I ride so often throughout the summer. And even I'll drive out there and just watch it at night. It's such an amazing bridge and piece of architecture.
High Trestle Trail Bridge at night
That is just one of the amazing trails we have in Iowa. We have, I think it's like 2000 miles of bike trails if you want to. And all sorts of corners up in the Driftless Area and Decorah, the Trout Run Trail, parts of it are flat, but then parts of it are switch backs and bluffs.
Outdoor Adventure in Iowa
Summer days need a hammock!
Iowa has an amazing state park system. Some of them are popular parks like Backbone State Park in Northeast Iowa. And the Maquoketa caves are fantastic.
Something people might be very surprised we have in Iowa are whitewater courses. There are three. The first one was in Charles City and now Elkader and Manchester each have a course.
You will also find rock climbing, hiking and cycling trails, equestrian trails, fishing, boating, swimming, and winter activities like snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and cross country skiing.
Food & Eating in Iowa
Obviously we produce a lot of food here in Iowa. We have just acres and acres of corn field and soybeans. And then I think a fact that I've heard bandied about is more pigs than people. So lots of great bacon. But there are other food opportunities here in Iowa that people might be a little surprised about.
Farm-to-table is a very short distance here.
I think when people think of Iowa, they might think of the Tenderloins. Every year the Iowa pork producers name a best breaded Tenderloin in the state. So we've sort of adopted that. Follow the Tenderloin Trail and start eating your way through Iowa that way.
You will also find a lot of great cheese manufacturers.
Hello and welcome to Exploring the Midwest!
I am Jody Halsted and I will be your navigator as we explore the 13 states that make up the Midwest (as defined by the Midwest Travel Journalists Association).
These states are North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Kentucky.
or Watch this episode on YouTube
Why NOW is the Perfect Time for Exploring the Midwest
Last year (2020) brought us new phrases - shelter in place, social distancing - and a lot of time spent at home.
Travel ceased completely for a few months and then, when it returned, it was a mere fraction of what it had been in previous years.
But, if a silver lining to this dark cloud can be found, it is in the fact that people began to look for places to visit where they could avoid crowds, get outside, and return to a feeling of normalcy.
To that I say: Welcome to the Midwest!
My goal as we explore the Midwest is to introduce you to places in the heartland you may have heard of but overlooked as you traveled to distant locales, discover quirky spots that you never imagined you could find in Middle America, and provide inspiration for your own Midwest getaways.
Join Me Weekly for Midwest Explorations
Exploring the Midwest is a videocast, broadcast live each Wednesday at 12:10pm CST on YouTube. The benefit of the live broadcast is that viewers can interact with myself and my Midwest guest - so tune in and ask your questions!
The live videos will remain on YouTube in the Exploring the Midwest playlist and will also be used to create both a podcast and a transcribed article here on Family Rambling. So no matter how you like to get your information - video, audio, or the written word- you'll find what you are looking for.
Midwest Topics This Year
April Quirky Museums
May Midwest Beach Getaways
June Midwest National Parks
July State Fairs
August Orchards, Pumpkin Patches & Corn Mazes
September Fall Foliage
October Made in the Midwest (gift giving ideas)
November Christmas Towns
December 2022 Midwest Highlights to watch for + Monthly Topics for 2022
Thank You for Joining Me!
Thanks so much for joining me for this episode! I hope you will return in the coming weeks for information about the 13 states in the Midwest. I know you will learn something new - and maybe even begin to plan a day trip, weekend getaway, or a full vacation!
For daily Midwest tips & inspiration join the Exploring the Midwest group on Facebook!