10 Best Midwest Fall Trips

Fall is my absolute favorite season, and the Midwest knows how to do it right. When I moved to the Midwest, I was most impressed by fall. There are so many pumpkin patches, incredible fall foliage that rivals New England, and cute towns that look like they are out of a Hallmark movie. 

Now I use my love of fall (ok, maybe it is more of an obsession) to plan fall trips around the Midwest each year to find the best spots! There are great options for families, couples, or friends’ trips. 

Midwest Fall Trips:

Arbor Day Farm, Nebraska

Arbor Day Farm in Nebraska is one of my family’s favorite Midwest fall trips. It is a nice blend of beautiful hikes, great kids’ spaces, and a cozy, elegant lodge with delicious dining options. There is also a relaxing oasis and spa for couples or friends. The Arbor Day Farm and Lodge celebrate trees and conservation. Unsurprisingly, there are lots of trees on the grounds, making it a perfect spot to enjoy fall foliage. With orchards, historic farm buildings, and scenic nature trails, it’s a fantastic choice for fall trips in the Midwest. 

The highlight of Arbor Day Farm for my kids is the Tree Adventure. There are multiple outdoor play areas including a zip line, hammocks, blocks, a giant seesaw and more, but the best part is the series of tree houses connected by rope bridges. My kids loved this, but I have to admit, I did too! There is a lookout tower and multiple slides. Expect to spend a few hours playing. 

After enjoying the outdoors, stop by the Apple House Market to sample fresh apples, local wines, and handmade treats. 

Arbor Day Lodge is beautifully made and maintained. The entryway has high ceilings and I loved how the doorways were decorated with quotes about trees and nature. The food at both their restaurants is so fresh, with apple jelly and ciders being made with their own apples. 

Learn more about Arbor Day Farm in my blog post 10 Best Day Trips from Kansas City.

Parke County, Indiana

One of my favorite places in the entire Midwest is Parke County, Indiana, known as the Covered Bridge Capital of the World. I haven’t been there for fall yet, but it is definitely on my Midwest Fall Trips bucket list because the annual Covered Bridge Festival in October seems like the epitome of Midwest small town fun. It features local crafts, live music, and mouthwatering seasonal treats. 

Parke County’s scenic drives were stunning when we were there in the summer, so I can only imagine how beautiful it would be in the fall. There are stunning views of foliage for miles.

Beyond the covered bridges, Turkey Run State Park is one of my favorite state parks in the Midwest. Turkey Run State Park feels like a true adventure with ladders descending into stone canyons and hikes that run through rivers. I have seen photos of the foliage there and it has been on my list to make it back in the fall ever since. Learn more about Turkey Run State Park in my blog post 11 Most Beautiful State and National Parks in the Midwest.

Arcadia Valley, Missouri

We visited Acadia Valley in the fall a few years ago and I was blown away by the beauty. I love this area because it has three of my favorite Missouri state parks within 40 minutes of one another. 

Taum Sauk State Park has the highest point in Missouri, the tallest waterfall in Missouri, and incredible views. I recommend the Mina Sauk Trail which has lookouts with views of the foliage for miles. 

My kids and I loved Elephant Rocks State Park. This park is appropriately named because the large and unique boulders in the park resemble elephants. My kids love climbing the rocks and exploring the nooks and crannies. I am most impressed by the uniqueness of these rocks. I have traveled around the world and never seen anything quite like them.

 Note: Make sure to lay under one of the giant rocks and act like you’re screaming for a silly photo making it look like it’s crushing you. 

Johnson Shut Ins is arguably the most impressive swimming hole in Missouri. The shut ins are a series of rocks that make little swimming holes and waterfalls throughout. There are some great small rocks for kids, but for the really daring people there are also bigger rocks you can slide down and swim on. 

When we were in Acadia Valley it was an unusually hot October weekend, so we were able to swim. You could still explore and have fun here in the fall, but if you want the full swimming experience, I recommend planning another trip in the summer. 

When we stayed in this area, we camped at one of Johnson Shut Ins hike-in campsites. It was about a .25 mile walk up an unpaved hill. There were carts you could use to carry in your stuff which was nice. This was a unique and serene way to experience nature in Acadia Valley. 

Branson, Missouri

Branson might be the most popular Midwest fall destination, or at the very least in Missouri. Branson may be known for its popular shows, shopping, and great restaurants, but it is also full of natural beauty. I always love driving through this region because the Ozark mountains are stunning, and they really show off in the fall. 

This year I went to Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival for the first time. The park will transport you back to the 1880’s with all of the employees dressed in old time clothes and demonstrations of skills like blacksmithing throughout the park. This family-friendly theme park knows how to do fall! They transform the park into a pumpkin wonderland with over 20,000 pumpkins. The menu is filled with seasonal dishes and snack options like pumpkin spice kettle corn. 

At night the pumpkins transform into jack-o-lanterns, which was absolutely stunning. There is a giant pumpkin dance party with kids, complete with bubbles, and larger-than-life illuminated pumpkin animals. 

My personal favorite spot near Branson is the Lost Cave Canyon. I haven’t been in the fall yet, but I can only imagine this already spectacular activity is even more stunning. Each group gets a golf cart to drive through the park. There are waterfalls, caves (complete with a Bat Bar inside where you can buy drinks and snacks) and beautiful foliage. 

Dogwood Canyon also offers beautiful views, waterfalls, and a fun way to view nature on their Wildlife Tours. This option is a little more hands-off because you ride on a large trailer instead of driving which some people may prefer. 

Some of the other top fall attractions in Branson, Missouri are zip lining, a boat cruise on Table Rock Lake, or seeing a show like Dolly Parton’s Stampede. Branson stands out among fall trips in the Midwest and is a top choice for a fall getaway.

Check out my blog 7 Best Weekend Trips from Kansas City for more about Branson. 

Shawnee National Forest, Illinois

I had the opportunity of exploring the Shawnee National Forest in the spring and I have been hoping to get back in the fall ever since! Shawnee National Forest is most well-known for Garden of the Gods, but with over 280,000 acres of forest, you’d be missing out if that was the only place you stopped. 

We explored Giant City State Park which is known for having huge rock cliffs that create a natural open tunnel. You’ll also find a waterfall, tons of cool rocks, and little caves. We loved exploring the caves and the tunnel section of the trail felt surreal. 

Garden of the Gods is a beautiful area with a huge rocky bluff overlooking the forest. When we were there in the spring, I envisioned the fall foliage and knew I had to go back! The rocks are smooth and clustered together in areas. My kids like any hike where they can climb on rocks, so they loved this hike. 

Shawnee’s campsites and quiet trails make it a prime choice for Midwest fall trips for people who love getting outdoors. The forest also has fantastic options for horseback riding, rock climbing, and scenic drives, which are especially breathtaking in the fall. There are lots of beautiful places in Southern Illinois and the Shawnee National Forest, but don’t miss Bell Springs Recreation Area, the Shawnee Wine Trail, or Ferne Clyffe State Park. 

Boone, Iowa

Boone, Iowa, may not be the most well-known destination, but I assure you it is the perfect hidden gem for a fall Midwest road trip. If you like unique experiences, then you will love the Rail Explorers. Groups and 2, 3, or 4 get on to their own pedal-powered motorized train car. These cars follow the train tracks over two bridges and across 12-miles of fields and trees. The foliage is incredible. 

After your rail adventure, be sure to check out Ledges State Park in nearby Madrid, Iowa. It’s known for its rugged sandstone cliffs and gorgeous river valley vistas. Boone’s mix of unique attractions and natural beauty makes it an excellent stop for fall trips in the Midwest that blend both adventure and scenic splendor. 

The Iowa Arboretum is another great stop in the area. There is a tree house village kids love to play in. Our family loved Boone. It was the perfect addition to our Midwest fall trip itinerary. Boone, Iowa is a great destination for family travel! 

Minnesota’s North Shore

Not to be dramatic, but I think Minnesota’s North Shore along Lake Superior is one of the most beautiful places in the world. Stretching the coastline from Duluth to Grand Portage, this scenic drive has breathtaking views of cliffs, waterfalls, and forests. On one side of the road, you’ll see miles of crystal blue water and on the other side of the road endless foliage. This was one of our family’s favorite road trips of all time. 

Our family loved taking the Lutsen Gondola to see the fall foliage. It was incredible but arrive early and try to go on weekdays because the lines get long during peak leaf peeping season. 

We explored Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Grand Portage State Park as well as exploring some small towns and stopping at many incredible lookouts. 

My kids loved climbing the rocks at Gooseberry Falls and I loved the waterfalls. Split Rock Lighthouse has some rocks you can explore with excellent views of the lighthouse in the background. Grand Portage has a beautiful trail to a waterfall and excellent views. This state park is on the border with Canada, so be sure to pack your passport so you can visit if you want.

Leavenworth, Kansas

Leavenworth, Kansas has some of the best foliage I have seen in Kansas. It is a hidden gem for fall trips in the Midwest. With its charming historic architecture and stunning fall colors, Leavenworth is perfect for a cozy autumn adventure. I love the drive between Weston and Leavenworth and always stop on the riverfront in Leavenworth to admire the foliage.

There is plenty of outdoor fun here, from hiking along scenic riverfront trails at Leavenworth Landing Park to exploring the quaint downtown area. If you have kids with you, check out the C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. If you’re looking for a bigger adventure, take a horseback ride and glamp at Watkins C Ranch.

Learn more about Leavenworth and other beautiful spots in Kansas in my blog 10 Best Kansas Hidden Gems.

Rapid City, South Dakota

Rapid City is the gateway to the Black Hills, offering one of the most exciting Midwest fall trips. Our family loved the iconic Mount Rushmore and hiking through the scenic beauty of Custer State Park. This area is packed with stunning landscapes and vibrant fall colors. The Wildlife Loop Road treats you to spectacular views of autumn foliage and chances to spot bison and elk, making it a top pick for fall trips in the Midwest.

Rapid City also delivers a unique mix of cultural experiences. Explore art galleries, visit interesting museums, or enjoy family-friendly spots like Reptile Gardens and Bear Country USA. We truly loved everything Rapid City has to offer. It is the ideal fall break destination for Midwest families. 

Find all the best things in Rapid City, South Dakota in my blog Things to do in Rapid City, South Dakota: A Fun Guide for Families.

Jamestown, North Dakota  

I haven’t had the opportunity to explore North Dakota in the fall, but my friend Antonia from Knead to Roam recommended Jamestown, North Dakota. This is from Antonia:

Fall in Jamestown, North Dakota, is the perfect getaway for families seeking low-key activities and vibrant fall foliage. A short 1.5-hour drive from Fargo (under 5 hours from Minneapolis and less than 10 hours from Kansas City), Jamestown offers plenty of fall fun for families with kids of all ages. The town’s tree-lined streets and parks burst with color from mid-September through October.

For a fall-themed family outing, visit the A-Maze-N Clown Pumpkin Patch. They offer several autumn activities, including a Trebuchet Pumpkin Flinger, a petting zoo, bounce houses, and more. Afterward, take a scenic drive or stroll along the James River. Parks are plentiful in the area. So, whether you want kids to burn some energy at a playground or to enjoy a fall picnic, you’ll find a great spot.

Then, don’t miss visiting the World’s Largest Buffalo Monument. Towering 26 feet above the town, kids will be captivated by its height. The historic village likely won’t be open, but you can still snap a few pictures with the buffalo. And, of course, see bison roaming in the nearby preserve. Next, the Stutsman County Memorial Museum offers a chance to learn local history. You can explore artifacts from Jamestown’s past, including items from the pioneer days and tributes to local legend Peggy Lee. Fall in Jamestown offers beautiful scenery and plenty of ways to connect with nature and your kids.

Additional Can’t-Miss Spots: 

There are a few Midwest fall trips I would love to take, but I haven’t had the chance yet. I really want to visit Door County, Wisconsin because it is renowned for its charming lighthouses, picturesque apple orchards, and cozy coastal towns. The ferry ride to Washington Island sounds particularly dreamy. 

In Michigan, I would love to explore Traverse City for its breathtaking views of vibrant foliage along the Old Mission Peninsula on Lake Michigan. There are scenic drives and local wineries. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is 45-minutes away with iconic dunes on Lake Michigan Shore. It’s about 2 hours from Mackinac Island if you’d like to add that stop on to your trip. 

I have heard wonderful things about Brown County, Indiana. The foliage, hiking, and biking in Brown County State Park are said to be unmatched. There is a quaint small town called Nashville that is known for its artists and cozy vibes. 

I would also love to explore the River Road Scenic Byway in Illinois. There are stunning views of the Mississippi River, quaint river towns, hiking in Pere Marquette State Park, and historic sites.

What next?

The Midwest is bursting with amazing fall break destinations, each offering its own unique mix of vibrant foliage, outdoor fun, and charming small-town vibes.  

If you’re in the Kansas City area, and looking for more fall fun, be sure to check out 26 Fun Kansas City Fall Activities for Families and The Ultimate KC Pumpkin Patch Guide for Family Fun.

Where would you like to go this fall? Is there an amazing Midwest fall destination I forgot? Please let me know in the comments!