Often overlooked in favor of the more dynamic East and West coasts, middle America would like to have a word with potential vacation goers. Adventurous travelers will find plenty of interesting places to visit in the country’s core.
Swipe through to learn about amazing places to visit in America’s center.
Fly into Denver and spend a few days exploring its many offerings, such as the Denver Art Museum or the Denver Botanical Gardens. Then drive west into the Rocky Mountains to enjoy any number of amazing activities such as hiking, white water rafting, or skiing, depending on the time of year you visit. Be sure to stop at one of the historic mining towns, such as Georgetown, which is known for its shops and galleries.
Missouri’s Lake of the Ozarks is a fun place to visit if you enjoy outdoor activities. Water sports such as canoeing, stand-up paddling, boating and fishing are popular with fans of this Central Missouri area. You’ll also find plenty of hiking opportunities, and ziplining, too. There are caves to explore, and birds to watch, as well.
Known for more than the Michael Jordan-era Bulls, Chicago is an exciting place to visit. Catch a Cubs game at legendary Wrigley Field or see the city skyline reflected in The Bean, a huge sculpture in Millenium Park. Check out Navy Pier, where you’ll find plenty of fun activities for the family. And don’t miss getting a pie at Giordano’s, where you’ll find some of the most delicious deep-dish, stuffed pizzas in the world.
Wyoming is known for its cowboy culture, national parks, and snow skiing. But have you heard of Thunder Basin National Grassland? Located in the northeast part of the state, this natural area is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including pronghorn deer and black-tailed prairie dogs. In Thunder Basin, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, hunting and fishing.
Step back in time with a visit to Ohio’s Amish country, where you’ll experience the simpler way of life adhered to by communities in northeast Ohio. A welcoming people, the Amish community is happy to share their traditions with visitors. You can shop for beautiful handmade baskets, furniture and timepieces, and enjoy deliciously crafted foods like cheese and sweets.
All Americans should at some point visit South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore to see the four U.S. presidents sculpted out of a mountain. But you’d be remiss if you didn’t also head over to Chamberlain to view the stunning Dignity Statue, a steel 50-foot-tall tribute to the cultures of the Lakota and Dakota people. A regal figure, she casts her serene gaze over the Missouri River.
Photography: Travel South Dakota