Getting To Know the Midwestern United States

Great Places to Live in the Midwest

Amazing Midwestern Lifestyles

Life in the Midwestern region of the United States can be convenient, pleasant, and enjoyable. The key, however, is knowing exactly where to reside. There are many Midwestern locales that are perfect for all different kinds of lifestyle needs. It doesn’t matter if you have a fulfilling and hectic career. It doesn’t matter if you want to lead a quiet and low-key existence, either. The Midwest is home to an abundance of amazing areas.

Carmel, Indiana

Carmel is a Hamilton County, Indiana city. It’s a suburb of bustling Indianapolis as well. If you want to enjoy a life of peace, few cities can top Carmel. If you want to be close to the big city, Carmel is a great place, too. Carmel is a rapidly expanding community that has a reputation for comfort and convenience. The city also is home to a wealth of prominent points of interest. Examples of these are the picturesque Japanese Garden, lively Carmel City Center, and the inspiring Carmel Arts and Design District.

Fishers, Indiana

Fishers is yet another desirable Indiana city. It’s part of both Delaware and Fall Creek townships. It also is a prominent Indianapolis suburb. Fishers has a reputation for safety. People who want to reside in idyllic, quaint, and serene communities can easily get behind Fishers. Fishers is known for affordability. People who are looking for inexpensive lifestyles close to Indianapolis can’t go wrong with Fishers. There are many attractive and relaxing parks located in the city. These many parks include Brooks School Park, Billericay Park, Flat Fork Creek Park, Harrison Thomas Park, and Olio Fields.

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

South Dakota is an unassuming Midwestern state. When people picture the Midwestern region of the United States, they often forget about the Mount Rushmore state. Life in Sioux Falls can be ideal for people who want to find happiness in South Dakota. The city has many diverse employment opportunities. It’s also extremely easy to get around. Traffic isn’t a big problem at all in Sioux Falls. The city is extremely safe. It also has the distinction of being the biggest city in the entire state. Prominent attractions in Sioux Falls include the Great Plains Zoo, the Washington Pavilion and the 114th Fighter Wing.

Arlington Heights, Illinois

Arlington Heights is a widely known Chicago, Illinois suburb. It’s part of Lake and Cook Counties. It’s roughly 25 miles away from the heart of the Windy City. If you’re into big city convenience, relatively brief commutes, and affordability, you may want to think seriously about relocating to the Midwest gem. The town is ideal for people who love peace and tranquility. It’s also ideal for folks who want quick and reliable access into Chicago on a daily basis.

Eagan, Minnesota

Eagan is part of Dakota County, Minnesota. The city isn’t far at all from St. Paul, the state capital. If you want to live right next to the scenic Minnesota River, Eagan may just be the right place for you. Eagan is remarkably safe. It’s chock-full of conveniences. It’s full of friendly, pleasant, and honest Midwestern people as well. What’s not to love? The city, last but not least, is a terrific place for education. It has many high-quality public and private schools.

Olathe, Kansas

Olathe is located in Johnson County in Kansas. It’s part of the northeastern portion of the state. If you’re thinking about moving to the Kansas City area, Olathe should be one of your options. The city boasts fantastic weather and therefore is optimal for people who appreciate ample sunshine. It’s safe. It even has safe roads. If you prioritize road safety, cities don’t get much better than Olathe. It also offers a low cost of living. Kansas City home loans are relatively easy to obtain, and at low interest rates.

Do Your Research

People who want to make the most out of Midwestern lifestyles indeed have many exciting and solid choices. It doesn’t matter if you want to be near the thrills and excitement of a major metropolis. It doesn’t matter if you’re constantly searching for peace and quiet, either. The Midwestern can offer you so many diverse and one-of-a-kind options. If you’re committed to moving to the Midwest, these cities should all be high on your list. They can accommodate all types of lifestyles and households beautifully.

The United States is a veritable gold mine when it comes to exciting tourist destinations. Though not as flashy and flamboyant as some of the well-known attractions in the South or along the coasts, the Midwestern US boasts some hidden gems when it comes to enjoyable places to visit. Here are some of the top destinations you may want to consider exploring during your next vacation.

Mackinac Island

Take a step back in time with a trip to this charming vacation mecca. Guests from around the world have come to Mackinac for many years to enjoy the serene, peaceful beauty of nature as well as explore the Island’s historical sites. You can take a stroll on the grounds of the famous Grand Hotel which boasts the world’s longest porch. There are no motorized vehicles allowed on this charming island. Instead, visitors explore on foot, by riding bicycles, or by taking one of the island’s numerous horse-drawn carriage tours. Fort Mackinac offers a fascinating look at the life of the British soldiers as they resisted the American revolution and sought to retain control of the Great Lakes fur trade in the late 18th century. The fort offers tours, reenactments, and educational opportunities. You can also tour a world-class art museum and the historic Downtown Mackinac district. Of course, it wouldn’t be a trip to Mackinac Island without some delicious Mackinac Island fudge!

Indiana Dunes

The Indiana Dunes region is found along the Southern tip of Lake Michigan. This area boasts beautiful beaches, plenty of hiking and biking opportunities, and several charming nearby towns. There are all kinds of restaurants and shops nearby, so whether you’re more into fitness or fine food, you’ll find plenty of great options to choose from on your visit to the Indiana Dune area.

Wisconsin Dells

Those who enjoy waterparks will be thrilled to learn that there’s a Midwestern destination designed just for them. Best of all, this “Waterpark Capital of the World” has numerous indoor waterparks, so you can have fun frolicking in the water all year round! There are more waterparks in the Dells per capita then any other location on the planet! Even if you’re not a huge waterpark enthusiast, there’s plenty of other fun to be had at the Wisconsin Dells. There are amusement parks, animal attractions, premium golf courses, restaurants, live entertainment shows, and scenic tours of this gorgeous area. There’s something for everyone in the family at the Dells!

Branson

For down-home fun at affordable prices, you can’t beat Branson, Missouri. This popular tourist destination boasts theme parks, family amusements, and popular shows. Silver Dollar City is a family-focused theme park with a 56-year history. Branson also offers pristine lake access and choice fishing options — so don’t forget to bring your kids fishing poles! Many families choose to rent Branson cabins while they are there.

Chicago

A tour of the Midwest wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Windy City. Chicago has so many exciting attractions that you could spend weeks there and not see them all. You can feel the thrill of looking out of the viewing area at the top of the Willis Tower, North America’s tallest building. Or you and the family can ride the gigantic Centennial Wheel and enjoy the exciting sites and sounds at historic Navy Pier. There are museums galore, such as the world-famous Field’s Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry. Not to mention the incredible culinary and shopping options, live entertainment shows, and professional sports venues. Don’t forget to get a slice of Chicago-style pizza while you’re there!

The St. Louis Gateway Arch

This monument to America’s westward expansion towers at an impressive 630 feet high. It’s a truly incredible sight to behold. There are regular tours and even a tram that takes visitors to the top of the arch for observation. There’s also a Museum of Westward Expansion located below the arch that gives insight into this important period of American history. Along with the Arch itself, the city of St. Louis offers visitors great professional sports, dining and shopping opportunities. Remember to try some world-famous St. Louis Barbecue while you’re in town!

This short selection is by no means an exhaustive list of attractions in the great Midwest region of the United States. From urban, to suburban, to rural, to remote, the Midwest offer a myriad of possibilities for those seeking adventure or relaxation. Though often overlooked, this region of the country often described as the “heartland” is an ideal place for recreation and exploration!

To many, the Midwest is simply where cows, corn and potatoes come from. Little do they know that the Midwest is home to some of the most beautiful museums and galleries. Here’s a list of the best places to find art in the Midwest.

Walker Art Center: Minneapolis, Minnesota

The Walker Art Center was founded more than 125 years ago when a Minneapolis man decided to build an extra room onto his home to house his favorite paintings. He allowed entry to anyone who wanted to see his collection. Today the Walker Art Center is one of the most visited modern art galleries in the United States with over 700,000 visitors a year.

Des Moines Art Center: Des Moines, Iowa

The Des Moines Art Center is a not for profit gallery housing more than 5,000 works of art ranging from 21st Century Modern to 18th Century Japanese woodblock prints. The gallery hosts numerous traveling exhibitions each year as well, so there is always something new and fresh to see.

The Eiteljorg Museum of American Indians and Western Art: Indianapolis, Indiana

Located in downtown Indianapolis, the Eiteljorg Museum aims to educate and develop an appreciation for the art of the indigenous Americans and those settlers making their way to the west. The Eiteljorg has a lot more to offer than an art history lesson. With artists such as Andy Warhol and Georgia O’Keefe displayed in their permanent collection, this museum is bound to appeal to every artistic taste.

The Art Institute of Chicago: Chicago, Illinois

Let us not forget that Chicago is a cultural mecca and yes, it’s snuggled right into the heart of the Midwest. The Art Institute of Chicago was founded to be both a museum and school for the fine arts in 1879. Today, their permanent collection is home to almost 300,000 works spanning every era and genre and the school is recognized as one of the leading art schools in the United States.

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art: Kansas City, Missouri

The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is a jewel of art history nestled in the heart of Kansas City. The museum is free to attend and houses more than 35,000 works of art. With more than 500,000 visitors a year, the Nelson-Atkins brings art and history to the Heart of America.

Detroit Institute of Arts Museum: Detroit, Michigan

Founded in 1885, the Detroit Institute of Arts spans 658,000 square feet and includes more than 100 galleries, an auditorium, and a lecture hall. The collection housed at the Detroit Institute of Art is among the top 6 in the United States and is renowned for its diversity. With significant works from America, Europe, Africa, and Asia to name a few, this collection presents a multinational art experience.

Cleveland Museum of Art: Cleveland, Ohio

The Cleveland Museum of Art opened in 1916 with the hope that it would benefit all people forever. 100 years later the museum has a collection with nearly 45,000 works of art spanning 6,000 years. In an effort to maintain their mission of benefiting all people forever, the Cleveland Museum of Art offers free admission through the generous support of individuals, foundations, businesses, and state funding.

The Midwest has a lot of artistic and cultural value to offer and these galleries are just the tip of the iceberg. Nearly every major city in the region has an art museum as well as smaller galleries featuring local artists and sculptures. During the summer, art festivals are in abundance and is a great way to get amazing art for your collection directly from the artists themselves. From the corn fields to the western plains, art in the Midwest is everywhere.

The Midwest is in the central, eastern portion of the Unites States. There are plenty of things to do for people of all ages. There are many who choose to call these areas home because of the vast selection of affordable living and abundance of jobs. If you are looking for a great place to put down roots, consider the following areas.

Kansas City, Missouri

Kansas City is by far one of the greatest areas of the Mid West. More than 475,378 people call this area home. It is the 36th largest state in the country, but it also has all the conveniences of an urban lifestyle. There are numerous neighborhoods that drip with old-world charm. You can easily find tree-lined streets, yards that have undergone generous landscaping, and plenty of green places to enjoy nature. The educational system in this area is among the top. When it comes to college, there is the University of Missouri and Rock Hurst University, just to name a few. If you love barbeque ribs and other treats, this is the barbecue capital of the world. The people are friendly, and it will take you no time to feel right at home.

Columbus, Ohio

With more than 850,106 people that call this area home, Columbus, Ohio, is the 15th largest city in the country. Located in the center of Ohio, “The Heart of It All,” this thriving metropolis has so much to offer. There are numerous suburbs that provide all different types of lifestyles. Those who enjoy architecture can choose to live in the German Village area. Enjoying old restaurants like Schmidt’s is a favorite. Up and coming professionals may choose to live in Easton or Polaris. There is numerous city-run parks that offer plenty of green space. If you crave water and swimming sports, check out the Hoover Dam or Alum Creek Reservoir.

Even though this area is mostly urban city areas, those who want to enjoy some serenity of nature in a more rural setting can choose a suburb like Grove City or Groveport. Here, they will find plenty of areas to spread out. As far as universities are concerned, Ohio State University is among the top in the country. Other colleges include Columbus State and Franklin University. The children will enjoy sites like The Columbus Zoo and Cosi. Finding a good place to eat is not a problem. From Indian to Chinese and everything in between, Columbus hosts some good restaurants.

St. Louis, Missouri

Located in the heart of the Ozark Mountains, St. Louis is one of the most exciting cities in this region. More than 315,685 call this area home. It is the 19th largest city in this country. Not only do they have the famous arch to view, but they are gifted with a broad range of recreational activities to enjoy. This cultural area is almost always ranked among the best and most affordable places to live in this country. They have some of the best zoos and city parks around.

Children love visiting the St. Louis City Museum, which offers free admission and more activities than you could fit into one day. When it comes to college, students will have 12 to choose from. There are world renowned medical centers, and restaurants made to impress. Who wouldn’t want to live in St. Louis?

Chicago, Illinois

Whether you want the big town vibe or small town feel, you can find something around Chicago to suit your fancy. More than 2.7 million people call this area home, which makes it the second most populated city in the country. However, the greater Chicago area, as a whole, has 10 million residents. Don’t let all the people scare you off, there are areas where you can spread out and have room to breathe. In fact, Mount Prospect, IL was voted the best place to raise kids in the country. It is just a short 23-miles to Chicago. When it comes to colleges, there are more than 20 to choose from. Those who consider themselves to be a history buff and a die-hard foodie will find there is no better place to be.

Enjoy sites like The Navy Pier, visit the Museum of Science and Industry, and visit the waterfront to enjoy some fishing and great views. This area beacons to Jazz and Blues fans, so the music scene is always hopping. Any and every kind of food imaginable is found here, but you must try a Chicago style deep dish pizza. Often called the “Windy City,” this area has plenty of great weather and four distinct seasons.

The Midwest Is The Place To Be

No matter where you choose to live, as long as you settle down in or around these great areas, you will find life can be amazing. You will always be close to jobs, great food, and plenty of entertainment.