Winter in the Midwest is like stepping into a snow globe — quiet forests, frozen waterfalls, glowing ice castles, and endless outdoor adventures. If you live in or travel through Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Michigan, you don’t just endure winter…you experience it. From mushing behind a team of sled dogs to exploring magical ice formations and peaceful snowy trails, here are the most unforgettable unique winter experiences across these three Midwest gems. 1. Dog Sledding Adventur

If you’re looking for a winter outing (or even a summer activity) that blends charm, recreation, and community spirit, the Central Park Ice Skating Loop in Central Park, Maple Grove (Maple Grove, MN) is a delightful spot. Below, I break down everything that makes this skating loop special — and offer tips to make the most of your visit. 📸 from the Maple Grove Parks & Recreation ❄️ Quick Facts & What Makes the Loop Unique The loop is 810 feet long and 20 feet wide — a generou

If you’re in Minneapolis this holiday season — or plan to visit — there are some really fun bars and pop-ups serving up festive, holiday-themed cocktails. Here’s a detailed blog-style guide to some of the best holiday-cocktail spots around town, with vibe, drink highlights, and what to expect 🍸🎄 Top Holiday-Cocktail Bars + Pop-Ups in Minneapolis AC Hotel Minneapolis Downtown — pop-up: Sippin’ Santa https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/mspar-ac-hotel-minneapolis-downtown/o

If there’s one thing Minnesota does well, it’s Christmas. From twinkling lights to snowy mornings and everything peppermint-dusted in between, the holiday season here feels straight out of a postcard. And what pairs perfectly with all that Midwest magic? A festive Christmas brunch. Whether you’re looking for vintage charm, upscale elegance, or a cozy local favorite, Minnesota has a Christmas brunch spot for every vibe. Here are five of the very best to add to your December bu

There’s something extra magical about Christmas in Minnesota — snow-covered streets, glowing small towns, festive markets… and of course, the holiday treats that make the season unforgettable. From Scandinavian classics to German-inspired favorites, cozy bakery traditions, and small-town specialties passed down for generations, Minnesota knows how to sweeten the holidays like no one else. Whether you’re planning a festive food tour, looking for the best bakery stops for your

If there’s anything more magical than a Midwest Christmas, it’s the way Minnesota’s small towns turn into twinkling winter wonderlands each holiday season. From tree-lined main streets covered in fresh snow (sometimes courtesy of Mother Nature, sometimes courtesy of snow machines!) to charming parades, festive markets, and cozy traditions passed down for generations — Minnesota knows how to do Christmas right. Whether you’re looking for the perfect holiday day trip, a weekend

Minnesota might be famous for its 10,000 lakes — but during the holiday season, it’s also home to some of the most enchanting Christmas stores you’ll find anywhere in the country. Whether you’re looking for timeless German ornaments, local artisan gifts, or a full-blown Christmas market experience, these five Minnesota spots are must-visits. Käthe Wohlfahrt of America (Stillwater, MN) No list of Christmas stores in Minnesota is complete without the iconic Käthe Wohlfahrt shop

Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan offer a fantastic mix of holiday light experiences — from massive, choreographed drive-through events to charming small-town strolls. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spectacle or a cozy, low-key outing, you’ll find something magical in the Upper Midwest. ✨ Top Holiday Light Displays in Minnesota Bentleyville Tour of Lights – Duluth, MN Bentleyville is one of Minnesota’s most iconic holiday attractions. This walk-through winter w

There’s something magical about small-town holiday charm in the Midwest — snow-dusted streets, twinkle lights hung on historic storefronts, horse-drawn sleigh rides, window displays glowing with nostalgia, and the kind of slow-paced warmth that feels like a scene from a Hallmark film. If you’re looking for that perfect winter getaway — somewhere cozy, scenic, and full of holiday spirit — here are five towns that deliver. 1. Frankenmuth, Michigan Often referred to as “Little B

There’s something magical about the holidays in the Midwest — the kind of charm that makes you want to grab a cup of cocoa, bundle up, and soak in every moment. Between the snow-covered small towns, festive lights, and cozy winter traditions, the Midwest turns into a real-life winter wonderland each holiday season. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for fun local experiences, this Midwest holiday bucket list is filled with the best winter activities, cozy ad

There’s something truly special about Thanksgiving in the Midwest. Between the cozy small towns, family-owned restaurants, festive main streets, and that unmistakable crisp autumn air — it’s the perfect place to slow down, unplug, and enjoy a meaningful holiday surrounded by charm. Whether you’re dreaming of a peaceful cabin getaway, a hometown-style parade, or a cozy inn that feels like it’s straight out of a Hallmark movie, here are some of the best small towns in Minnesota

As the crisp air settles in and the fall colors fade into winter, November in the Midwest brings the perfect excuse to slow down, bundle up, and enjoy some quality time with your favorite person. 🍂 Whether you’re in Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Michigan, there’s something so romantic about chilly evenings, warm drinks, and small-town charm. Here are some cozy Midwest date ideas that make November nights extra special. 🌙 1. Sip Hot Cocoa Under the Lights There’s something magica

If you love discovering small-town gems, supporting local makers, and finding the kind of bakery that feels like home the moment you walk in — then the Holistic Homestead Bakery & Farm in Minnesota is one you must add to your list. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, this charming bakery and farm is the definition of cozy. Everything here is made from scratch, completely gluten-free, and baked with love. From the smell of fresh pastries to the scenic countryside views, it’s

If you’re planning a small-town adventure in the Midwest and have a taste for craft beer (or just good stories), visiting the Leinenkugel’s brewery in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, is a great choice. Located in the scenic Chippewa Valley, the Leinenkugel’s brewery offers more than just samples — you’re walking through over 150 years of brewing history. Founded in 1867, the brewery is one of the oldest in the U.S. and has remained intimately connected to its roots in Wisconsin’s

There’s nothing better than hitting the open road with your furry best friend by your side — especially when you don’t have to leave them behind! 🐶 Whether you’re exploring charming small towns, hiking through colorful fall trails, or lounging lakeside, the Midwest is full of pet-friendly destinations that welcome both you and your four-legged travel buddy. From cozy cabins to dog-friendly breweries, here are some of the best Midwest getaways for canines and their humans. 🌲

Fall in the Midwest is pure magic — crisp air, colorful leaves, cozy sweaters, and of course, the mouthwatering comfort foods that make the season unforgettable. From apple orchards and pumpkin patches to cozy cafés and lakeside breweries, Minnesota, Michigan, and Wisconsin know how to celebrate autumn in the most delicious way. If you’re planning a fall road trip or weekend getaway, here are some must-try fall foods and local eats across these three beautiful Midwest states.

If you’re looking for the perfect fall getaway in Minnesota, Lake Pepin is an absolute must-visit. This beautiful stretch of the Mississippi River is surrounded by charming small towns, scenic views, and plenty of seasonal activities that make it ideal for a crisp autumn day. Here’s how to make the most of your visit. Start Your Day with Scenic Views Begin your morning with a drive along the lake. The rolling hills and forests are a spectacular mix of oranges, reds, and yello

If you’re looking for the perfect fall day trip from the Twin Cities, look no further than Apple Jack Orchard in Delano, Minnesota — just about an hour west of the metro! 🙌 This family-owned orchard is the ultimate destination for cozy autumn vibes, delicious treats, and fun for all ages. Whether you’re craving fresh caramel apples, planning to pick your own apples, or looking for a place where the kids can run and play, Apple Jack Orchard truly has it all. 🍏 Apple Picking

As the leaves turn shades of gold and crimson and the air grows crisp, the Midwest transforms into a playground for all things fall and...

There’s just something magical about Door County in the fall. 🍂 Crisp air off Lake Michigan, apple orchards bursting with color,...