5 of the Most Romantic Places to Visit in the Midwest

(Photo: Asaf R)

As all traveling fiends are aware, sometimes getting away for a while is the perfect remedy to get you out of whatever funk you might be in at any given time. The same could be said for couples who are feeling bogged down by the daily routine.

Traveling isn’t capable of curing all ills, of course, but if it’s stagnation you’re looking to tackle, a day trip or a weekend getaway — especially in the winter months, when seasonal affective disorder is in full force — could very well be just the thing you and your significant other need.

Fresh air, new faces, and new places have a way of reinvigorating us, and if that’s the kind of boost your relationship needs right now, you might like to try one of these romantic spots in the Midwestern U.S. (all of which were selected after cross referencing multiple lists found across the Internets).

1. French Lick Resort (Indiana)

You could be forgiven for glossing over the state of Indiana when looking for a getaway, romantic or otherwise, but there is at least one small town in the southern part of the Hoosier state that merits some attention. French Lick, just over an hour south of Bloomington, is best known as the hometown of NBA legend Larry Bird, but it’s also home to a luxe resort with a rather eponymous name.

French Lick Resort comprises two hotels, three golf courses, a pair of spas, and a Vegas-style casino recognized as one of the best in the country outside of Sin City itself. You and your traveling companion have the option to stay at either the French Lick Springs Hotel or its sister establishment just up the road, the West Baden Springs Hotel, both of which offer modern comforts in historic settings. Sip tea while being serenaded by live harp music, relax with a couple’s massage, or head outside to knock some balls around or take a hike.

2. Saugatuck (Michigan)

Another small Midwestern town, Saugatuck can be found along the gorgeous Lake Michigan shoreline, a short drive from the likes of Holland and Grand Rapids. This beach town benefits not from one lake but two, as it’s also located on (the much smaller) Kalamazoo Lake. The Saugatuck area, including nearby Douglas, has become known as one of the most LGBTQ-friendly destinations in all of Michigan, a distinction the city attributes to deep roots in the creative arts.

Outside of the quaint downtown area, where many charming shops wait to greet you, you’ll find world-famous Oval Beach, Saugatuck’s prime jewel, as well as the natural beauty contained within Saugatuck Dunes State Park. Rent a local cabin or cottage for you and your sweetie, or check into cozy Hotel Saugatuck, and let the romance begin.

3. Sundara Inn & Spa (Wisconsin)

Wisconsin Dells is best known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, but it also happens to be home to a pretty fantastic resort that easily stands on its own. Sundara Inn & Spa, found on a winding road just outside town, provides the perfect escape for any couple looking to get away for a few days. Here you’ll find hot tubs, steam rooms, and heated towels galore; a candlelit spa where you and your partner can get a massage side-by-side; and champagne delivered poolside, along with all the other trimmings of a romantic retreat.

And if that isn’t enough for you, you could always go kayaking at Mirror Lake State Park, set out for a sunset dinner cruise along the Wisconsin River, or, if you’re so inclined, take full advantage of the abundance of waterslides and rollercoasters.

4. Hocking Hills (Ohio)

It pains me to include Ohio on this list — it really does — but everywhere I looked, I seemed to run into some mention of Hocking Hills. Described by TripAdvisor as the “perfect Midwest getaway for couples who love an outdoor adventure,” the area in and around Hocking Hills State Park could easily fill out its own list of date night inspiration.

The state park offers scenic hiking, sprinkled with waterfalls and prehistoric caves; plenty of spots to canoe or kayak; and what they claim is one of the most exciting ziplining experiences in the Midwest. Camping is, of course, an option, but if you prefer indoor accommodations, there are numerous cozy cabins to choose from. Outside the park, you could also opt to stay in the cottages at either the Inn & Spa at Cedar Falls in Logan or at the Glenlaurel Inn in Rockbridge.

5. Lead (South Dakota)

Another romantic haven for couples who enjoy the great outdoors, this former gold-mining hub in the far western portion of South Dakota provides a magnificent getaway, no matter the season. In the summer, its the waterfalls and canyons that take center stage, but come winter, you’ve got easy access to both the scenic Terry Peak Ski Area and Deer Mountain Ski Resort — as well as the George S. Mickelson Trail (for hiking or cross country skiing).

The place to stay for the optimal romantic experience is Spearfish Canyon Lodge, an upscale resort with loads of rustic touches located within South Dakota’s sprawling Black Hills. The lodge can be found right on the Spearfish Canyon Scenic Byway, and is primed to offer you and your honey endless opportunities for outdoor adventure, as well as the chance to cozy up by the fireplace at night.

-LTH