The American Midwest consists of a collection of four season states. Experiencing the temperature changes of the winter, spring, summer, and fall, the Midwest is a great place to take in the beautiful outdoors. As the temperatures get colder and the days get shorter, the leaves fall off the trees in preparation for the winter months. Before they fall, they turn shades of orange, red, and yellow. The changing of the leaves makes for a beautiful fall show, especially if you are in the Midwest. Any of these locations are perfect for a Midwest fall fun daycation road trip.
Rainbow Route Minnesota Road Trip
A road trip through Minnesota is the perfect opportunity for some Midwest fall fun. You can view the changing colors while taking in the fresh air of the road. Rainbow Route is a colorful fall road trip that takes you through the best views in the state of Minnesota. It runs from the north shore of Lake Superior through the wilderness and follows the bend of the state rivers, spanning across 11 different, beautiful sights. This route is often considered as the “All American Drive”, specifically named for its outstanding scenery. The Twin Cities Touring part of the route is a great way to spend some time sightseeing while still in the vicinity of the bigger city. Driving through the Circle Lake of the Isles, around Harriet Lake and Minnehaha Falls, and traveling along the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway; you are sure to find this route especially fall worthy.
The best way to explore Midwest fall fun along the Rainbow Route in Minnesota is to start at the northernmost point and follow each one of the routes. Because the drive can be a little long, make sure you plan a stop for a day stay at the Crowne Plaza Aire MSP Airport Hotel. Located right in Minneapolis, this is the perfect place to plan a day use hotel to relax during your fall sightseeing route. The upscale hotel is right along the Rainbow Route and is within a couple of miles of the Mall of America.
Lake Ozark and Wine Country in Columbia, Missouri
Columbia, Missouri is home to many Midwest fall fun opportunities as well. Make sure you plan a road trip over to Lake Ozark, which has some of the most breathtaking fall views in the entire state. With scenic views and numerous hiking trails, you will have plenty of opportunities to see the changing of the colors here. In Columbia, you will find numerous fall festivals to further celebrate the fall. With events like Eureka Days and the Scarecrow Festival in Eureka, you will never run out of fall fun. Missouri offers a spectacular fall show that is completely unique and breathtaking.
If you prefer to relax while taking in the sights, make sure you stop off at one of the local wineries. There is just something relaxing about sitting outdoors with a fresh glass of wine, overlooking the fall scenery. The Missouri Wine Trails, located in Missouri Wine Country is the perfect place to do just that. With beautiful scenery, award-winning wines, and endless entertainment, what else could you want in a day trip? The Missouri Wine Trails consist of 11 different wineries that are a great way to spend your fall afternoon. If you want to venture away from these Wine Trails, you will find over 130 wineries that make up 10 different wine trails throughout the entire state.
Right in the middle of Columbia and just a short drive to the nearby Lake Ozark is the Holiday Inn of Columbia East. This day use hotel is in a convenient location, offers a heated pool, and is just a few miles from the freeway, making it the perfect day use hotel during your Midwest fall fun day.
Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway in Rochester
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The Minnesota River Valley Scenic Byway is another Minnesota must-visit fall destination. This unique location is situated directly on the Minnesota River, making it the perfect spot to combine your exploration skills with the amazing views of the fall season. With an interesting history, the Minnesota Scenic Byway consists of six state parks, along with numerous museums and historic sites along the way. Jump in your car for a day trip and explore the entire route. For an even more unique experience, plan a route based on your entertainment interests. There is a historical, the River’s Best, and a prohibition itinerary to choose from.
End your Midwest Fall Fun road trip at The Westin Minneapolis with a hotel room by the hour. The last stop on the Scenic Byway is the Ney Nature Center, which is just a couple of miles from this day use hotel. You can further your historical exploration at The Westin. With an interesting history and unique architecture, you will never see another hotel quite like it. Book a room for the day and spend a few hours exploring the unique design of the building.
Cuyagoa Valley National Park in Brecksville, Ohio
This must-see fall destination is a national park located in Brecksville, OH. This Midwest fall fun park is the perfect outdoor place to enjoy the fall show away from the urban hustle and bustle of Ohio. The park runs along the Cuyahoga River and has farmlands, forests, hills, and many walking trails throughout it. For a fun fall sightseeing experience, make sure you stop by the Brandywine Falls or the Ritchie Ledges. Both of these sights are perfect for a half day stay visit. You will also enjoy the Everett Covered Bridge, a historical landmark replica that dates back to 1913.
The Aloft Beachwood is the perfect hourly hotel to end your Ohio fall trip. This hotel provides guests with upbeat and unique accommodations. With flat-screen TVs and a fully equipped on-site gym, it is a good option for refreshing after an Ohio road trip. Don’t forget to stop by the refuel station for a make your own latte, ideal for energizing after your Cuyagoa park visit.
Cheney State Park in Cheney, Kansas
The Cheney Reservoir and State Park is a staple in Kansas. While the state park offers much to do year-round, it is also an exciting place to enjoy the crisp fall weather. The 5,200-acre wildlife area backs up to a 9,500-acre lake. The lake has some of the best fishing in the entire Midwest with 22 boating launches and even a marina sailing headquarters. Cheney State Park is a great destination in the fall for hiking, sailing, or fishing. It is also a wonderful day trip to take in the fall foliage.
If you need a break during your fall outdoor trip to Cheney State Park, consider the Quality Suites Airport Wichita. This transit hotel is just a short drive to the state park and is great for some midafternoon dining and napping after a morning spent fishing. The hotel features comfortable bedding, clean rooms, and is a great day rate hotel room option to end your Midwest fall fun.
Plan Your Midwest Fall Fun Trip with HotelsByDay
Fall road trips can be a lot of fun and are often easier to plan, but they can also be tiring. Planning a same day hotel stay can ensure you feel relaxed and refreshed after an exciting fall road trip. Head over to HotelsByDay to complete your online hotel room booking. HotelsByDay offers room rates for just a couple of hours, perfect for a Midwest fall fun road trip.
