Flyover Cities Apple Maps
When it comes to travel destinations, the heartland of America often gets overlooked. But Flyover Cities Apple Maps is here to change that. From bustling metropolises to charming small towns, the Midwest and Great Plains are full of hidden gems just waiting to be explored. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, nature lover, or thrill-seeker, there’s something for everyone in these flyover cities. Here’s our comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions
First things first, you’ll want to hit up the must-see sights in each city. In Chicago, the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) offers breathtaking views from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor. Kansas City is home to the National World War I Museum and Memorial, which honors the sacrifices of those who fought in the Great War. And in St. Louis, the Gateway Arch is a symbol of westward expansion and a stunning feat of engineering.
Hidden Gems
But don’t stop at the tourist hotspots. Some of the best experiences in these cities are off the beaten path. In Milwaukee, check out the Pabst Mansion, a stunning mansion that was once the home of beer baron Frederick Pabst. In Des Moines, the Des Moines Art Center has an impressive collection of contemporary art that’s often overlooked. And in Omaha, the Durham Museum is housed in a beautifully restored art deco train station and offers a glimpse into the city’s history.
Food Scene
No trip to the heartland is complete without indulging in some local cuisine. In Kansas City, barbecue is king. Try the burnt ends at Arthur Bryant’s or the ribs at Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que. In Minneapolis, the Juicy Lucy burger (stuffed with cheese) is a must-try. And in Cincinnati, you can’t leave without trying a Cincinnati-style chili dog from Skyline or Gold Star.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? No problem. Many of these cities have plenty of free or low-cost activities. In Cleveland, the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame offers free admission on certain days. In Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Museum of Art is always free. And in Detroit, the Detroit Institute of Arts has free admission for residents of Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties.
Outdoor Adventures
The heartland is home to some of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the country. In Duluth, Minnesota, you can hike along the shores of Lake Superior on the Superior Hiking Trail. In Rapid City, South Dakota, you’ll find the awe-inspiring Badlands National Park. And in Branson, Missouri, you can go ziplining through the Ozark Mountains.
Historical Landmarks
The heartland is steeped in history, and there are plenty of landmarks that reflect that. In Springfield, Illinois, you can visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, where Abraham Lincoln lived with his family from 1844 to 1861. In Memphis, Tennessee, you can pay your respects to the King of Rock and Roll at Graceland. And in Independence, Missouri, you can visit the Truman Presidential Library and Museum.
Family-Friendly Activities
Traveling with kids? These cities have plenty of activities that the whole family can enjoy. In Omaha, the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium is one of the best in the country. In Cincinnati, the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden is home to over 500 animal species. And in Kansas City, LEGOLAND Discovery Center and SEA LIFE Aquarium are sure to delight kids of all ages.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, these cities have plenty of quirky and unique experiences. In Austin, Minnesota, you can visit the SPAM Museum and learn about the history of the canned meat product. In Wall, South Dakota, you can stop by Wall Drug, a tourist attraction that’s been around since 1931. And in LeClaire, Iowa, you can take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River.
Natural Wonders
From rolling prairies to rugged mountains, the heartland has no shortage of natural wonders. In Custer, South Dakota, you can see the stunning granite peaks of the Needles. In Hocking Hills, Ohio, you can hike through picturesque forests and waterfalls. And in Door County, Wisconsin, you can kayak through the clear waters of Lake Michigan and see the stunning sea caves.
Vibrant Nightlife
Just because these cities are in the heartland doesn’t mean they don’t know how to party. In Nashville, Tennessee, you can catch some of the best live music in the country at venues like the Ryman Auditorium and the Bluebird Cafe. In Minneapolis, the Warehouse District is home to some of the city’s hottest bars and clubs. And in St. Louis, the Soulard neighborhood has a lively bar scene.
Local Markets
If you want to get a taste of local culture and pick up some souvenirs, check out the local markets. In Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Public Market has over 20 vendors selling everything from cheese to seafood. In Minneapolis, the Midtown Global Market has vendors selling food from all over the world. And in Omaha, the Old Market is a historic district with plenty of shops and restaurants.
Beaches and Mountains
Yes, you read that right. The heartland has beaches and mountains too. In Saugatuck, Michigan, you’ll find the stunning Oval Beach on the shores of Lake Michigan. In Duluth, Minnesota, you can take in the views of Lake Superior from the top of Enger Tower. And in Branson, Missouri, you can take a scenic drive through the Ozark Mountains.
Cultural Immersion
The heartland is home to a rich and diverse array of cultures, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in them. In Chicago, you can visit the National Museum of Mexican Art in the Pilsen neighborhood. In Detroit, the Arab American National Museum celebrates the contributions of Arab Americans to the country. And in St. Paul, Minnesota, the Hmong Village Market is a vibrant hub of Hmong culture.
Art and Music Scene
From street art to symphonies, the heartland has a thriving arts scene. In Kansas City, the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art has an impressive collection of over 35,000 works of art. In Detroit, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra is one of the best in the country. And in St. Louis, the Delmar Loop is a hub of live music and performance art.
Walking Tours
If you want to stretch your legs and learn about the city’s history and architecture, take a walking tour. In Indianapolis, the Indianapolis Cultural Trail takes you through some of the city’s most historic and vibrant neighborhoods. In Milwaukee, the Historic Third Ward is full of beautiful old buildings and unique shops. And in Omaha, the Old Market District has plenty of historic landmarks and charming cobblestone streets.
Architectural Marvels
The heartland is home to some stunning examples of architecture, from classic Victorian homes to modern skyscrapers. In Minneapolis, the Foshay Tower is a striking Art Deco building that offers amazing views from the observation deck. In Kansas City, the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts is a beautiful piece of modern architecture. And in Columbus, Indiana, you can take a tour of the city’s many architectural masterpieces.
Historical Sites
From the Civil War to the Civil Rights Movement, the heartland has played an important role in American history. In Vicksburg, Mississippi, you can visit the Vicksburg National Military Park and learn about the Siege of Vicksburg. In Selma, Alabama, you can walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge, the site of the Bloody Sunday march. And in Little Rock, Arkansas, you can visit the Little Rock Central High School National Historic Site, where nine African American students made history by integrating the school in 1957.
Biking Routes
If you’re a cycling enthusiast, there are plenty of great biking routes in the heartland. In Minneapolis, the Midtown Greenway is a 5.5-mile trail that takes you through the heart of the city. In Madison, Wisconsin, the Capital City State Trail takes you on a scenic tour of the city and its surroundings. And in Omaha, the Keystone Trail is a beautiful 15-mile trail that takes you through parks and along the riverfront.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, there are plenty of wellness retreats in the heartland. In Door County, Wisconsin, the White Gull Inn offers yoga retreats and spa services. In Hot Springs, Arkansas, you can soak in the natural hot springs at the Buckstaff Bathhouse. And in Galena, Illinois, the Stonedrift Spa offers a range of treatments to help you unwind.
Adventure Sports
For the adrenaline junkies out there, the heartland has plenty of opportunities