Top 5 Budget Destinations in the Midwest for All Seasons

Traveling can be expensive, especially if you plan on gathering your entire family to spend some beautiful days away from the city rush. In fact, for most of us, even a trip to Walmart can turn into an experience we can’t afford more than once in a blue paycheck.

However, spending all your earning on a night out in Atlantic City, New York, or Las Vegas may not be the only way to have a blast on your days off. There are plenty of affordable destinations all around the country, suitable for friends who want to party all weekend long or for families who are looking for quieter spaces to recharge their batteries.

Let’s take a look at the top five budget vacation spots the Midwest has to offer best in terms of cheap thrills, all-year-long.

1. Chicago, IL

It may be the third most populous city in the United States, but Chicago is a far more reasonable destination than other large cities like New York or Los Angeles. If you’re on a budget but still want to experience the hype of the big city life, Chicago might be your best option.

The good news for your Midwest vacation, there is something to do every month of the year, and each season has its charm in Chicago. A three-day pass is everything you need to experience the authentic Midwest vibe and visit some of the most iconic places the city has to offer.

As one of the cool places to visit in the Midwest, Chicago has a lot of big-city attractions to offer. Children will have a blast at the Lincoln Park Zoo or Fields Museum, learning more about ancient cultures and animals. Pass by sky-scrapers or rent a boat to enjoy a quiet afternoon on Lake Michigan.

Don’t forget about the local cuisine and pay a visit to the famous Bean at Millennium Park. Chicago is on the rise as one of the best destinations in the United States, so don’t overlook this city for an affordable vacation spot.

2. Hannibal, MO

Despite its name, you won’t find anything here that links the town to the mad doctor Hannibal Lecter. What you can discover is the Mark Twain Boyhood Home and Museum, counting for several properties and the museum’s leading galleries.

The city of Hannibal is about two hours north of the state’s capital, St. Louis, right in the middle of agricultural and rural communities. Although the main attraction of the town is linked to the iconic American humorist Samuel Clemens (Mark Twain for those who didn’t know that), Hannibal has other decent spots worth visiting in the Midwest.

Enjoy dinner at the Twain Dinette, where you can taste some of the homemade root beer and try by-the-foot onion rings, enjoy a glass of wine at a local winery or even visit the Mark Twain cave, the place that inspired several novels, including the “Adventures of Tom Sawyer.”

3. Kansas City, MO

Missouri is an excellent state for Midwest family vacations. While you’re still in the state of Missouri, don’t forget to also pay a visit to its most famous city, Kansas City. Counting for approximately 300,000 inhabitants, Kansas City is the perfect weekend getaway when you’re on a tight budget.

There is something for everyone to see and try, even though it is mainly known for barbeque, jazz, and its constant feuds with the Oakland Raiders.

If you’re looking for some cheap thrills, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art and the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City’s Money Museum have no admission fees and are interesting enough for all your family members.

If you’re looking for fun on your Midwest getaway, there are several bars with free live jazz music during the week, which you can access by taking the city’s free Streetcar. The place is suitable for bike enthusiasts as well, so don’t forget to read this professional review by Young Choppers to change your bike oil before heading for a night out in Kansas City.

4. Milwaukee, WI

Wisconsin is known for its college football and legendary cheeses, but there is more than meets the eye in this Midwest state. Milwaukee is an affordable weekend destination with plenty of leisure opportunities for people of all ages as one of the best places to visit in the Midwest.

It recently became renowned for its hometown beers, but there are plenty of small, local-based businesses in the food and beverage industry that are looking to make a name for themselves. Artisan producers will welcome you with their unique coffee recipes, bread, cheese, wines, and others, so do your best to stay fit while trying out all these local goodies.

Don’t miss the Harley Davidson Museum, a tribute to the American iconic motorcycle brand, or enjoy a quiet afternoon at Lake Michigan.

5. Detroit, MI

One of the most affordable Midwest tourist destinations, Detroit has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment. It used to be one of the most dangerous cities in the world, with violent gangs setting their score on the streets.

Now you can enjoy the breathtaking sunset at Belle Isle or spend an entire afternoon in the city, taking a stroll through the Eastern Market or walking around the Heidelberg Project, a two-block art installation started in 1986. 

Affordable Vacation Destinations In The Midwest – Bottom Line

If you’re a budget traveler, then the Midwest is your best chance of having a great time.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a proper 10-day holiday. Just pick any of our top Midwest destinations and pack your bags. From Chicago to Kansas City, all these options are suitable and fun.

All you’ll need is a great company and good spirits to have a blast in these cities. Plus, your budget won’t suffer a bit from your Midwest traveling adventure.