Big Thrills, Small Cost: The Beautiful Midwest

Our country’s coasts undoubtedly have some exciting cities filled with thrilling attractions. With a higher population density, though, and greater tourist populations, these destinations might be outside your economical goals – especially since your goals may have been adjusted in recent months thanks to a less than optimistic economy. Have I got an idea for you: It’s charming. It’s economical. And it’s somewhere in the middle.

The Midwest loosely defines the states grouped around the magnificent St. Louis Arch, representing westward expansion since it first swayed in the wind. (It does, it sways in the wind). This area is as varied as any other part of the country, with a few common denominators you can pretty much count on: Hills, trees and rivers for beautiful scenery; exciting cities like Chicago, Omaha, and Kansas City; and, finally, a whole lot of heart.

All of the above cities offer attractions perfect for educational tours or for leisure. Chicago lets you view its amazing architecture from above with its Sears Tower Sky Deck or from the water with exciting cruises starting at the equally thrilling Navy Pier. The park district, pizza, cheesecake, shopping and museums in this city make any Chicago tour amazing.

Other midwest cities offer their own popular standouts like the Henry-Doorly Zoo in Omaha with its amazing IMAX theater and Kingdoms of the Night nocturnal exhibit. Kansas City offers the cultural thrill known simply as The Plaza. And the St. Louis Arch thrills thousands of guests every year with its breathtaking view and powerful symbolism.

And these are just the beginning – they’re just the biggies. The Midwest offers all kinds of charming cities, rich with history and culture. You might want to visit the Precious Moments Chapel and similar attractions in Carthage, Missouri, or take a literary tour through Mark Twain’s Hannibal or to one of the Laura Ingalls Wilder homesteads (they’re in Iowa, Missouri, and beyond). You might enjoy a historical stroll through Abraham Lincoln’s Springfield, Illinois, or a nostalgic one in Marceline, Missouri, the hometown of the beloved Walt Disney.

Whether from the area or not, you probably haven’t begun to imagine the thrilling attractions you can find all over the Midwest – every one of them perfect – and cost-effective – for group travel of any kind.