12 Scenic Drives in the Midwest Perfect for Road Trip Lovers
The Midwest, with its rolling hills, charming small towns, and breathtaking natural landscapes, offers some of the most scenic roads in the country. Whether you’re looking for a quick weekend getaway or an extended road trip, these picturesque routes are sure to inspire your next adventure. Fuel up your car, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the Midwest like never before.
Great River Road (Mississippi River)
Following the mighty Mississippi River, the Great River Road stretches through 10 states, but its Midwest portion is especially stunning. From the river bluffs of Minnesota and Wisconsin to the charming towns of Iowa and Illinois, this drive offers unmatched views. Take in landmarks like the Effigy Mounds National Monument in Iowa or visit Galena, Illinois, for its historic charm.
M-22 Scenic Drive (Michigan)
Michigan’s M-22 Scenic Drive is a must for nature lovers. Winding along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, this route showcases golden beaches, charming harbor towns, and the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. In the fall, the vivid foliage transforms this road into a kaleidoscope of colors.
Indiana’s Covered Bridge Loop
Located in Parke County, Indiana, this route takes you through over 30 historic covered bridges, earning the area its title as the “Covered Bridge Capital of the World.” The drive is perfect during the annual Covered Bridge Festival when local crafts and food add to the charm.
Ohio’s Hocking Hills Scenic Byway
The Hocking Hills region in Ohio is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and rugged landscapes. The scenic byway takes you through must-see stops such as Ash Cave, Old Man’s Cave, and Cedar Falls. It’s a paradise for hikers and photographers alike.
Door County Coastal Byway (Wisconsin)
Door County, Wisconsin, often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” is home to this beautiful route. With 300 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, charming villages like Fish Creek and Ephraim, and scenic spots like Peninsula State Park, this byway is a road trip favorite.
Flint Hills Scenic Byway (Kansas)
The Flint Hills in Kansas offer a unique blend of tallgrass prairie landscapes and historic charm. Stretching 47 miles between Council Grove and Cassoday, this drive is especially beautiful in spring when the native grasses and wildflowers are in full bloom.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive (Wisconsin)
This 115-mile route offers rolling hills, glacial landscapes, and dense forests. Located in southeastern Wisconsin, the Kettle Moraine State Forest is a highlight, with plenty of opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching.
Minnesota’s North Shore Scenic Drive
From Duluth to Grand Portage, along Lake Superior’s rugged shoreline, this 154-mile drive is packed with natural beauty. Stop at Split Rock Lighthouse, Gooseberry Falls State Park, and Lutsen Mountains to experience the area’s highlights.
Illinois’ Historic Route 66
While Route 66 spans multiple states, Illinois offers some of its most iconic attractions. From vintage diners to roadside architecture, this portion blends nostalgia with scenic Midwest farmland. Don’t miss stops like the Chain of Rocks Bridge near St. Louis.
Badlands Loop Scenic Byway (South Dakota)
Although technically on the edge of the Midwest, this 39-mile route deserves mention for its dramatic landscapes. The rugged terrain and unique rock formations of Badlands National Park make it one of the most unforgettable drives in the region.
Iowa Loess Hills National Scenic Byway
Stretching along Iowa’s western edge, this 200-mile drive is home to the unique land formations of the Loess Hills. Visitors can explore the Hitchcock Nature Center and enjoy panoramic views of grasslands and rolling hills.
Ozark National Scenic Riverways (Missouri)
Located in southern Missouri, this area is perfect for a relaxing drive. Follow the winding roads along pristine rivers like the Current and Jack’s Fork, and take advantage of opportunities for kayaking, hiking, or simply soaking up the scenery.
Conclusion
The Midwest offers endless possibilities for unforgettable road trips. Whether you’re craving the serenity of coastal drives or the charm of small-town America, these scenic routes promise to deliver. Pack your bags, map out a route, and discover why road trip lovers can’t get enough of the Midwest.
For additional inspiration, explore this guide to Midwest road trips or dive into some tips for the prefect american road trip.
