The American Midwest, a vast expanse of rolling plains, historic waterways, and rugged shorelines, offers a bounty of road trip adventures perfect for groups. Forget the interstate—these scenic byways are the true veins of the heartland, leading you and your fellow travelers through stunning landscapes and living history.
For groups seeking dramatic natural beauty, the shores of the Great Lakes deliver breathtaking views and maritime history. Minnesota’s Gunflint Trail is a 57-mile National Scenic Byway near the Canadian border, a gateway to the vast expanse of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Groups can stay at resorts like Gunflint Lodge or Clearwater Historic Lodge for paddling, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visit the Chik-Wauk Museum and Nature Center at the end of the trail to learn about the area’s natural and cultural heritage. “There are lots of places to stop along the trail for scenery but, honestly, the best opportunity to see wildlife is on early-morning and evening drives—it’s up to Mother Nature,” says Brenda Maas, market development representative for Explore Minnesota. Spring brings “waterfall season” to the area as melting snow surges rivers over plunging rapids—a must-see.
Next stop: Copper Country Trail National Byway in Michigan. Winding through the Keweenaw Peninsula, this route celebrates the region’s copper mining boom from the late 1800s to early 1900s. Groups can descend into history at the Quincy Mine and explore the many sites of Keweenaw National Historical Park. Don’t miss the picturesque Fort Wilkins Historic State Park and the stunning views from Brockway Mountain Drive near Copper Harbor.
Lake Superior National Scenic Byway in Wisconsin follows the southern edge of the “Big Lake” past rugged cliffs and sandy beaches. Groups should plan a stop in Bayfield for ferry access to the beautiful Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Explore local culture at the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa reservation, and enjoy the beautiful views and sea caves—or ice caves in winter—at Meyers Beach.
Credit: Explore Minnesota
Don’t miss the Bark Bay Slough State Natural Area, a 552-acre protected region that includes “coastal wetlands, a lagoon, and bog habitats along Lake Superior,” says Mariana Kellogg of Turner Public Relations, Travel Wisconsin’s PR firm. “It is known for bird-watching and its mix of fen and bog vegetation. The site supports species such as bald eagles and sandhill cranes and offers opportunities for nature walks and photography.” Additionally, Wisconsin’s stretch of the Great River Road hugs the Mississippi River. This section of Wisconsin Highway 35 offers spectacular bluff-top views.
Driftless Area Scenic Byway in Iowa explores the “driftless” region, a unique landscape untouched by glaciers. The result is a stunning array of rugged bluffs, wooded valleys, and trout streams.
To the east, Illinois’ Historic Route 66 starts your journey on the legendary “Mother Road,” famous for its quirky roadside novelties. Must-see group photo stops include the Gemini Giant in Wilmington and the World’s Largest Catsup Bottle.
Whitewater Canal Scenic Byway in Indiana is a step back to the peak of the canal era. Groups can enjoy a unique experience on a horse-drawn canal boat ride in Metamora, a historic canal town, and explore the working Grist Mill.
The Ohio River Scenic Byway goes through Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois, tracing the historic path of the Ohio River. This byway is rich in history and beautiful river towns. “Explore 302 miles of attractions along Indiana’s Ohio River Scenic Byway,” says Alex Zoss, senior account executive with Turner Public Relations. “Visit a historic site to learn about Southern Indiana heritage, plan an outdoor adventure, or get your adrenaline pumping at one of our local thrill spots. The Ohio River Scenic Byway has something for everyone.”
Finally, the Lake Erie Coastal Ohio Scenic Byway in Ohio is a northern route that offers a mix of urban excitement and lakeshore fun. Groups can visit the Lake Erie Islands via ferry, or spend a day at the thrilling amusement parks and beaches in the Sandusky area. The byway also features numerous lighthouses perfect for photo ops such as those found in Marblehead, Huron, Port Clinton, and Vermillion, along with the historic Maritime Museum.
You’d be hard-pressed to find an easier way to explore the Midwest’s diverse beauty and rich history than through these scenic byways, setting the course for an unforgettable journey for any group.
By Maya Mackinnon
Main Image: Ohio River Scenic Byway, Aurora, Indiana; Credit: Ohio River Scenic Byway
