Well, weve got some ideas, 50 of em to be exact one for each of the 50 states in the U.S. Catch your supper from the fishing pier. Please forget everything youve seen on Jason Batemans dark drama television series. When you envision Illinois, Chicago probably pops up first. Fort Frenzy Family Fun Center is a family entertainment center that offers indoor activities, including a full arcade, go-karts, and laser tag, so its an excellent rainy-day option. Galena, Illinois Its Seattle. Any time of year is a good time to go antiquing, visit quaint shops, and enjoy the food on Main Street. Though its daytime activities, like guided paddling excursions and hiking tips, are lovely, the 218,000-acre park shines as an after-dark destination. As one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S., visitors won't need to battle crowds to earn some respite. The grand Osthoff Resort radiates Dirty Dancing vibes, she describes, with a sprawling resort property that looks out over the lake (which offers old-school paddle boats with a dragon-shaped twist)., The town is blessedly walkable, and the streets here are actually a national landmark they were the first to feature road racing, which has now blossomed into the world-famous Road America just down the street. Amongst all the wonderful small towns of Door County, Egg Harbor earns a distinction with artistic egg displays all over town, One Barrel Brewing brewery, and local peninsula apple and cherry deliciousness at Woods Orchard Market, Sherman says. Whether she says yes or no, you can celebrate or drown your sorrows with funnel cake and fudge afterward. Or, should we say that it will take your breath away? No matter what season, Missouri Botanical Garden in St. Louis offers stunningly romantic spotsby fairy light during the holiday Garden Glow, surrounded by tulips of every hue in the spring, the Victorian boxwood garden in the summer, or the Ottoman Garden in the fall. With a paradise like Hawaii, winnowing out where NOT to propose is the challenge. Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest, Illinois Heres where they recommend visiting this year in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The town might be small but the attractions are mighty in Chamberlain, says Shel Zolkewich of the south central South Dakota town nestled at the crossroads of Interstate 90 and the Missouri River. Youre going for coffee. When you visit this site, it may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. This monument, symbolizing the Native American relationship with the earth, fire, and water, is worth seeing during the day, too. Pine Creek Grist Mill, the oldest grist mill this side of the Mississippi, is just a short drive away in Wild Den State Park. (Photo by @accordingtodes), About 90 minutes outside New York City, Bronx Yankee gives way to New England Yankee on this point overlooking a picturesque stretch of the Long Island Sound. By Kelsey Yandura April 15, 2022 Advertisement Voyageurs National Park The Grand Basin in Forest Park Matt Ridings/Flickr.com The Grand Basin in Forest Park offers unforgettable views of Art Hill and the Saint Louis Art Museum. Walk hand in hand through the botanical gardens, take in the Gateway Arch, or explore Grant's Farm. Tettegouche State Park Minnesota. (The film festival is in Park City, 30 miles to the north.) Located 57 miles from Columbus (though it feels like a world away), this beguiling area brims with forests, cascading falls, caves and gorges. For a truly exceptional experience, travelers can time their visit to coincide with the induction event concert when new inductees strut their stuff for legions of screaming fans. Get more stories delivered right to your email. The Midwest Museum of American Art is right across the street from the recently restored historic Hotel Elkhart, she says, so you can walk to the museum from the hotel. Beautiful murals decorate the town, too. Even Minnesota -- the most expensive of the Midwestern. Recently, I discovered the inspiring Praying Hands Memorial and the Ampersand Sculpture. Specifically, the federal government defines it as the states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota and Wisconsinin other words, it spans a lot of gorgeous ground. It boasts a tavern, courtyard restaurant, and historic touches throughout the hotel and rooms, Stevenson tells us. Avoid the humidity and stifling heat of summer. 3. Alternatively, you can find a restaurant with a great view of the Atlantic. Topekas jewel box of horticultural delights, the gardens crown Lake Shawnee like a bridal headdress of flowers, with lots of hidden nooks and Technicolor crannies where you can spend a minute or two asking the most important question of your life. Here are the top 4 best vortexes in Sedona, Arizona: Airport Mesa Bello Rock Boynton Canyon Cathedral Rock Pink Jeep Tours An iconic experience throughout the adventurous Sedona Mountain terrain, the Pink Jeep Tours are an exciting nature experience that is guaranteed to spark a thrill! This migration is one of the largest of any kind in North America, and the largest crane migration on the planet,making it a must-see in the Midwest. Jason Kessler September 17, 2018 Your proposal is going to be a moment you'll both remember forever. This 23-day Cruise Takes You to 10 States on Some of the Most Scenic Rivers in the U.S. Why You Should Pick a State Park Over a National One This Summer and a Few of Our Favorites, 12 Best Lake Michigan Beaches With White Sand, Rolling Dunes, and Stunning Views, a cruise expedition to all five Great Lakes. Walter Cronkite Memorial pays tribute to one of the best newsmen of the 20th century, Walls tells us. While Viking may be best known for its ever-popular European river cruises, its Mississippi River offering is also worth planning a trip around. It offers a world-class spa, gorgeous manicured grounds, and a sprawling landscape filled with amenities for people of all ages. You can go for the high vantage point of the Overlook Tower, down closer by one of the . Wellfield Botanical Gardens is a lovely oasis in Elkhart, Indiana. For lodging, lay your head at any of T+L's World's Best Award winners; there's sure to be an ideal pick for every type of traveler. Laura Ray has lived in Atlanta, the Bay Area, SoCal, and Austin. But even a Texan cant complain about going with the city thats home to the Alamo. When she isn't clacking around on the keyboard (cat in lap), you can find her practicing yoga, gardening, or playing the ukulele. While its hard to pick the prettiest spots (because there are just so many options), we love a good challenge. Or pop the question among the parchment-colored aging barrels of a distillery like Heaven Hill. Barring summer busyness and fall leaf peepers, the whole peninsula is very drivable according to Sherman. Sandy beaches, dense forests and crystal-clear lakes make it ideal . (Photo by @beaversbendluxurycabinrentals), Cannon Beach is a 9-mile stretch on the northern Oregon coast, about a 90-minute drive from Portland. Going in winter, of course, is going to be a bear. What were describing is Lake of the Ozarks State Park. Its quite popular for Michigan weddings, but the same elements that make it perfect for nuptials beautiful, Victorian buildings in a splendid natural setting, and a visitor-friendly business network make it ideal for engagements, too. Whether you prefer taking it easy and just going for a leisurely stroll surrounded by breathtaking beauty or tackling more strenuous trails, Hocking Hills State Park is a destination that should be included on any self-respecting Midwest bucket list. Make sure you get a steak while youre here, advises Morgensen, who recommends Johnnys Cafe and Dinkers. Hotel Phillips Dcj3616/commons.wikimedia.org This Kansas City Art Deco landmark is sure to make sparks fly! It's noteworthy for many reasons, starting with the fact that its home Indianapolis Motor Speedway is the oldest continuously operating racetrack in the country. Sure, Niagara Falls is a safe default when youre in upstate New York, but do you really want to be the 14th person to get down on one knee on the Maid of the Mists boat tour on your special day? Chamberlains shining retail star is a kitchen store called berry + basil according to Zolkewich. The reservoir offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities, making Pierre a four-season destination. From biking to bovines to brews, this is small-town Wisconsin at its best, states Sherman. When it comes to dining, Yonkey recommends the pan-seared walleye with Cajun seasoning at Mad Marys Steak House & Saloon. Its the perfect trip to take the grandkids on during summer vacation, Piper tells us. From trendy restaurants (Public at the Brickyard is Robbins cant-miss) to art walks through the Douglas Design District, theres more here than prairie and sunflowers. Make time at the end of the day for The Ring of Fire at the Keeper of the Plains statue. The leisurely ride to quaint Kimmswick or Hannibal is the perfect time to discuss your future together. The Elkhart River and St. Joseph River make a lovely backdrop for this vibrant city that features fun dining spots and historic homes like Ruthmere to tour. Her work has appeared in a variety of print and digital outlets, including. So here it isthe 13 most beautiful places in the Midwest. Here are a few of our favorite places to propose. Pack up the tent (or RV) and camp in these well-appointed parks. (Photo by @davidlong3653), Just outside Washington, D.C., the Woodend Nature Sanctuary and Mansion in Chevy Chase are maintained by the Audubon Society and are open to the public. Built specifically for river use, the state-of-the-art Viking Mississippi sets sail in Minnesota, nestled on the banks of the mighty Mississippi, and continues through the heartland before concluding in New Orleans, Louisiana. Stevenson enjoyed going up to the bluff to explore Horseshoe Mound preserve for expansive views of the Mississippi River and the valleys below. Wyalusing State Park Wisconsin. At Buffalo Bill State Historical Park, explore Scouts Rest Ranch, the second empire-style mansion the famed Pony Express rider, Army scout, and buffalo hunter-turned-showman built during the heyday of his Wild West show. While plenty of noteworthy drives are found in the Midwest, the Great River Road stands out among the pack. A 2018 study analyzing 20 wellness factors found that six out of 10 of the happiest states were located in the Midwest. Yes, clearly, were talking about Shawnee National Forest, where Jackson Falls, Garden of the Gods, and the 403-mile multi-use Rim Rock Recreational Trail are just three of the many magnificent sights. What fan wouldnt want to get engaged under a giant acoustic guitar? Nestled between Cleveland and Akron, Cuyahoga Valley National Park is quite literally a sight for sore eyes. The Patee House, the home Jesse James and his wife and children were living in when he was shot, Dining alfresco at Ms Pub, Omaha, Nebraska. Seriously, tie one into a knot and slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and shell be yours for sure. (Photo by @sammienole), Quaint doesnt do justice to this lovely seaside town , which somehow turns commercial fishing into something out of a Hallmark Channel movie (as opposed to A Perfect Storm). Designated the Czech Capital of Kansas in 1974 due to the history of Czech immigrant settlers remaining in the area, the hand-painted 20-foot-tall Czech egg was a sight to see for these old Czech eyes.. It happens to be a perennially booked wedding venue for this reason but you dont need to book the place to propose, now, do you? Chicago, the biggest city in the region, ranks near the bottom in our study, and other major urban centers. The maze-like forests, rolling hills and waterfalls are best explored on foot or by bicycle. And a cozy stroll of restaurants and shops, the Riverwalks most romantic spot is arguably the Selena Bridge, named after the Tejana singer. Rides over the Mojave are easily arranged from inside Vegas (or Reno) for a perfect day in which to propose. (Photo by @mviron), Is it the gateway to the West, or the gateway to your future with your wife-to-be (assuming she says yes)? Peninsula State Park in Door County is teeming with natural beautytowering bluffs, sandy stretches, cedar forests, scenic overlooks and more. St. Louis is also an awesome city for foodies. Like seeing mountain ranges in person, theres something about her quiet grace and mesmerizing stare that leaves an impression, Zolkewich says. Ann Arbor, MI Carmel, IN Cedar Rapids, IA Columbia, MO Columbus, OH Fort Wayne, IN Madison, WI Naperville, IL Omaha, NE Overland Park, KS Rochester, MN Sioux Falls, SD Ann Arbor, MI Representing one of the most populated metropolitan regions in the Midwest. The Skywalk Observatory, at the top of the Prudential building, offers the citys only 360-degree views and lets you get a birds-eye perspective of your relationship, Beantown, the Patriots at Deflategate . 9 LITTLE-KNOWN LAKE MICHIGAN BEACHES WHERE CROWDS ARE FEW AND FAR BETWEEN. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, in Michigans Lower Peninsula, is one of the most scenic spots in the entire Wolverine State. (Photo by @petershieldsinnandrestaurant), Its not cheating to take the tram to the top if its the fastest way to her heart. Where to stay: Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls The Missouri Ozarks Getty Images Located along Lake Michigan this city has a unique combination of a busy industrial city and a relaxed lifestyle. If you go in the summer, you can enjoy kayaking or boating on the Galena River that runs through the center of town. For a fantastic view of the mountain to wake up to and propose beneath try Wonder Lake Campground. Go from zero to hero in five minutes: At James Allen or Blue Nile, you can adjust price ranges and other characteristics to see how many carats your budget buys. Glore Psychiatric Museum could be the set for a horror movie, says Walls, but for now, it depicts treatments used at the adjacent state mental hospital that dates back to the 1800s. (Photo by @renoballoon), You can hike or drive up to this scenic overlook in the White Mountains near North Conway its real popular with climbers, but you can park and take a couple reasonable trails up there instead. Youll have to take the single road into the national park and then switch to the parks bus and shuttle system, then hike, hike, hike. So you want to stage the best proposal ever the kind she will describe with teary awe in years to come but you dont know where to start. (Photo by @littlefamilygarden), When you think quaint New England towns, youre basically thinking of this community of under 3,000 four and a half hours from New York City. Nebraskas largest city is also home to the College World Series, Boystown, Warren Buffet, Omaha Steaks, a world-famous zoo, a great indie-music scene, and so much more. Some of the best stops along the journey can be found in the Midwest, including the headwaters, Twin Cities, Lake Pepin, Dubuque, and St. Louis. OK, great, now envision a picturesque place thats all about swimming, boating and just all-around waterfront fun. There are plenty of guest houses and motels, including the DeSoto House Hotel, the oldest operating hotel in the state. Stop by the Art Institute of Chicago, catch a game at Wrigley Field (home of the Cubs), or attend a show at the birthplace of improv, The Second City. The beautiful river city of St. Louis Missouri is perfect for a romantic couples vacation. Explore hotels near Shawnee National Forest. While in the area, Morgensen suggests heading to The Old Market for shopping, drinks, and dining. Here's where they recommend visiting this year in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. (Photo by @forgotteniowa), Who needs Oz? The littles will love the Back 40 Playground at the Community Orchard (open seasonally, August through October) and the Childrens Forest at Kennedy Park. (Photo by @alicaseface), The Best Places to Propose in All 50 States. Zolkewich recommends kicking off your tour of Chamberlain with a visit to Dignity: Of Earth and Sky. Its quaint downtown is filled with historical buildings and plenty of cafes and restaurants serving up Midwest fare. Chicago The Windy City is, in itself, worthy of bucket-list status.Catch soaring views at Skydeck Chicago (pictured), walk among majestic architecture in Grant Park (also home to Millennium Park), explore the world-class Art Institute of Chicago, catch a Chicago Cubs game at legendary Wrigley Field and gush over a gooey slice of Chicago deep dish pizzafor starters. (Photo by @forwardappareico), Jackson Hole and Yellowstone are obvious choices in the Cowboy State, but take the 40-minute drive outside Jackson Hole to the brilliantly clear waters of Phelps Lake. A lovely oasis in Elkhart, Indiana slide it onto your girlfriends finger, and other major urban.! A paradise like Hawaii, winnowing out where NOT to propose a steak while youre here, advises Morgensen who! Overlook Tower, down closer by one of the best places to propose is. ) for a fantastic view of the day for the Ring of Fire at the end the. 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