When it comes to unforgettable getaways, the Midwest is often underestimated. However, this charming region is home to some of the best resorts in the country, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the 20 best resorts in the Midwest, highlighting the fun activities you can enjoy at each location. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the vacation of a lifetime!
Grand View Lodge – Nisswa, Minnesota:
- Situated amidst the breathtaking Brainerd Lakes area, Grand View Lodge is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy golfing, fishing, hiking, or indulge in spa treatments and fine dining. Don’t miss out on a sunset cruise on Gull Lake.
The American Club – Kohler, Wisconsin:
- Tucked away in a historic village, The American Club is a luxurious resort with a world-class golf course, rejuvenating spa, and charming accommodations. Explore the nearby Kohler Design Center and Kohler Arts Center for a dose of culture.
French Lick Resort – French Lick, Indiana:
- A blend of classic elegance and modern amenities, French Lick Resort offers two historic hotels, a casino, golf courses, and a lavish spa. Take a scenic ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway or explore the beautiful Hoosier National Forest.
Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale, Missouri:
- Nestled on the picturesque shores of Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is a rustic retreat with numerous outdoor activities. Enjoy boating, fishing, horseback riding, and visit the nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park for stunning hikes and wildlife encounters.
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake – Geneva, Ohio:
- Overlooking Lake Erie, The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers stunning lake views, wine tastings at nearby wineries, and a wealth of recreational opportunities such as boating, hiking, and biking. Make sure to catch a breathtaking sunset over the lake.
The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin:
- A serene lakeside retreat, The Osthoff Resort is perfect for a family getaway. Enjoy water sports on Elkhart Lake, relax at the spa, and explore the Road America racetrack or the nearby Wade House Historic Site.
Mackinac Island Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, Michigan:
- Step back in time at the Mackinac Island Grand Hotel, a Victorian-era gem offering old-world charm. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour, rent bicycles to explore the island, and don’t forget to sample the famous Mackinac Island fudge.
Wilderness Resort – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin:
- Ideal for families, Wilderness Resort boasts America’s largest waterpark, making it a perfect destination for thrilling water slides and lazy river rides. Additionally, enjoy zip-lining, mini-golf, and arcade games for endless entertainment.
Chateau on the Lake Resort – Branson, Missouri:
- Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Chateau on the Lake Resort provides stunning lake views and a wide range of activities. Explore Branson’s live entertainment scene, go fishing or boating on Table Rock Lake, and take a scenic hike through the nearby trails.
The Lodge of Four Seasons – Lake Ozark, Missouri:
- This lakeside resort offers golf courses, a marina, and a spa. Unwind by the pool, embark on a scenic boat tour of the Lake of the Ozarks, or indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. End the day with a delicious lakeside dinner.
The Homestead – Glen Arbor, Michigan:
- Located on the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, The Homestead offers a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters, hike the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa – Lake Geneva, Wisconsin:
- Set amidst rolling hills and picturesque countryside, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is an oasis of luxury. Enjoy championship golf courses, horseback riding, skiing in winter, and pampering spa treatments. Don’t miss the Lake Geneva Cruise Line for a scenic tour of the lake.
The Lodge at Woodloch – Hawley, Pennsylvania:
- Escape to the serene Pocono Mountains at The Lodge at Woodloch, a tranquil spa retreat. Participate in wellness classes, explore nature trails, try your hand at fly-fishing, and rejuvenate with soothing spa treatments.
Devil’s Head Resort – Merrimac, Wisconsin:
- A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Devil’s Head Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in winter, as well as hiking, golfing, and rock climbing in summer. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the resort’s iconic bluffs.
Big Splash Adventure Resort – French Lick, Indiana:
- Ideal for families, Big Splash Adventure Resort features a massive indoor water park with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. Stay entertained with mini-golf, arcade games, and laser tag, or explore nearby attractions like Indiana Railway Museum.
The Shores Resort & Spa – Daytona Beach Shores, Florida (Midwest proximity):
- For a beachfront escape with a touch of luxury, The Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach Shores is a fantastic option. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachside cocktails, or venture out for water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa – Galena, Illinois:
- Nestled in the rolling hills of Galena, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers championship golf courses, horseback riding, and a relaxing spa. Explore the charming town of Galena, known for its historic architecture and boutique shops.
Mountain Top Inn & Resort – Chittenden, Vermont (Midwest proximity):
- Situated in the scenic Green Mountains, Mountain Top Inn & Resort is a winter wonderland. Enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, or visit in the warmer months for horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.
The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire – Eau Claire, Wisconsin:
- Experience modern elegance at The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire. Explore the vibrant music scene in Eau Claire, visit local breweries, or immerse yourself in nature at nearby parks and trails.
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Chicago, Illinois:
- Indulge in the bustling city life while staying at the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. Shop along the Magnificent Mile, visit world-class museums, dine at renowned restaurants, and take an architecture tour to admire the city’s skyline.
Some helpful things to bring to make your resort experience complete include comfortable walking shoes, a city map or guidebook, a reusable water bottle, a portable phone charger, an umbrella for unpredictable Midwest weather, water shoes, a waterproof phone pouch, water-resistant sunscreen, a waterproof camera, binoculars for bird-watching, and an extra change of clothes for water activities.
The Midwest is a treasure trove of hidden gems when it comes to resorts and unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, relaxation by the lake, or a vibrant city escape, the Midwest offers it all. From serene lakeside retreats to luxurious golf resorts and family-friendly water parks, there’s something for everyone.
So, whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, an action-packed adventure, or a mix of both, the best resorts in the Midwest have got you covered. Unwind in style, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The Midwest is waiting to be explored, and these resorts are the perfect gateway to an unforgettable vacation.
Unwind in Style: Discover the 20 Best Resorts in the Midwest
When it comes to unforgettable getaways, the Midwest is often underestimated. However, this charming region is home to some of the best resorts in the country, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and natural beauty. In this article, we’ll take you on a tour of the 20 best resorts in the Midwest, highlighting the fun activities you can enjoy at each location. So, pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to experience the vacation of a lifetime!
Grand View Lodge – Nisswa, Minnesota:
- Situated amidst the breathtaking Brainerd Lakes area, Grand View Lodge is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Enjoy golfing, fishing, hiking, or indulge in spa treatments and fine dining. Don’t miss out on a sunset cruise on Gull Lake.
The American Club – Kohler, Wisconsin:
- Tucked away in a historic village, The American Club is a luxurious resort with a world-class golf course, rejuvenating spa, and charming accommodations. Explore the nearby Kohler Design Center and Kohler Arts Center for a dose of culture.
French Lick Resort – French Lick, Indiana:
- A blend of classic elegance and modern amenities, French Lick Resort offers two historic hotels, a casino, golf courses, and a lavish spa. Take a scenic ride on the French Lick Scenic Railway or explore the beautiful Hoosier National Forest.
Big Cedar Lodge – Ridgedale, Missouri:
- Nestled on the picturesque shores of Table Rock Lake, Big Cedar Lodge is a rustic retreat with numerous outdoor activities. Enjoy boating, fishing, horseback riding, and visit the nearby Dogwood Canyon Nature Park for stunning hikes and wildlife encounters.
The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake – Geneva, Ohio:
- Overlooking Lake Erie, The Lodge at Geneva-on-the-Lake offers stunning lake views, wine tastings at nearby wineries, and a wealth of recreational opportunities such as boating, hiking, and biking. Make sure to catch a breathtaking sunset over the lake.
The Osthoff Resort – Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin:
- A serene lakeside retreat, The Osthoff Resort is perfect for a family getaway. Enjoy water sports on Elkhart Lake, relax at the spa, and explore the Road America racetrack or the nearby Wade House Historic Site.
Mackinac Island Grand Hotel – Mackinac Island, Michigan:
- Step back in time at the Mackinac Island Grand Hotel, a Victorian-era gem offering old-world charm. Take a horse-drawn carriage tour, rent bicycles to explore the island, and don’t forget to sample the famous Mackinac Island fudge.
Wilderness Resort – Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin:
- Ideal for families, Wilderness Resort boasts America’s largest waterpark, making it a perfect destination for thrilling water slides and lazy river rides. Additionally, enjoy zip-lining, mini-golf, and arcade games for endless entertainment.
Chateau on the Lake Resort – Branson, Missouri:
- Nestled in the Ozark Mountains, Chateau on the Lake Resort provides stunning lake views and a wide range of activities. Explore Branson’s live entertainment scene, go fishing or boating on Table Rock Lake, and take a scenic hike through the nearby trails.
The Lodge of Four Seasons – Lake Ozark, Missouri:
- This lakeside resort offers golf courses, a marina, and a spa. Unwind by the pool, embark on a scenic boat tour of the Lake of the Ozarks, or indulge in water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding. End the day with a delicious lakeside dinner.
The Homestead – Glen Arbor, Michigan:
- Located on the stunning shores of Lake Michigan, The Homestead offers a range of outdoor activities. Enjoy swimming, kayaking, and fishing in the crystal-clear waters, hike the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa – Lake Geneva, Wisconsin:
- Set amidst rolling hills and picturesque countryside, Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is an oasis of luxury. Enjoy championship golf courses, horseback riding, skiing in winter, and pampering spa treatments. Don’t miss the Lake Geneva Cruise Line for a scenic tour of the lake.
The Lodge at Woodloch – Hawley, Pennsylvania:
- Escape to the serene Pocono Mountains at The Lodge at Woodloch, a tranquil spa retreat. Participate in wellness classes, explore nature trails, try your hand at fly-fishing, and rejuvenate with soothing spa treatments.
Devil’s Head Resort – Merrimac, Wisconsin:
- A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, Devil’s Head Resort offers skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing in winter, as well as hiking, golfing, and rock climbing in summer. Enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the resort’s iconic bluffs.
Big Splash Adventure Resort – French Lick, Indiana:
- Ideal for families, Big Splash Adventure Resort features a massive indoor water park with slides, lazy rivers, and splash zones. Stay entertained with mini-golf, arcade games, and laser tag, or explore nearby attractions like Indiana Railway Museum.
The Shores Resort & Spa – Daytona Beach Shores, Florida (Midwest proximity):
- For a beachfront escape with a touch of luxury, The Shores Resort & Spa in Daytona Beach Shores is a fantastic option. Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and beachside cocktails, or venture out for water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa – Galena, Illinois:
- Nestled in the rolling hills of Galena, Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa offers championship golf courses, horseback riding, and a relaxing spa. Explore the charming town of Galena, known for its historic architecture and boutique shops.
Mountain Top Inn & Resort – Chittenden, Vermont (Midwest proximity):
- Situated in the scenic Green Mountains, Mountain Top Inn & Resort is a winter wonderland. Enjoy skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating, or visit in the warmer months for horseback riding, fishing, and hiking.
The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire – Eau Claire, Wisconsin:
- Experience modern elegance at The Lismore Hotel Eau Claire. Explore the vibrant music scene in Eau Claire, visit local breweries, or immerse yourself in nature at nearby parks and trails.
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Chicago, Illinois:
- Indulge in the bustling city life while staying at the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile. Shop along the Magnificent Mile, visit world-class museums, dine at renowned restaurants, and take an architecture tour to admire the city’s skyline.
Some helpful things to bring to make your resort experience complete include comfortable walking shoes, a city map or guidebook, a reusable water bottle, a portable phone charger, an umbrella for unpredictable Midwest weather, water shoes, a waterproof phone pouch, water-resistant sunscreen, a waterproof camera, binoculars for bird-watching, and an extra change of clothes for water activities.
The Midwest is a treasure trove of hidden gems when it comes to resorts and unforgettable experiences. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, relaxation by the lake, or a vibrant city escape, the Midwest offers it all. From serene lakeside retreats to luxurious golf resorts and family-friendly water parks, there’s something for everyone.
So, whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway, an action-packed adventure, or a mix of both, the best resorts in the Midwest have got you covered. Unwind in style, immerse yourself in nature, and create memories that will last a lifetime. The Midwest is waiting to be explored, and these resorts are the perfect gateway to an unforgettable vacation.
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