Posted on September 3, 2025
Fall is approaching, and there is no better time to go out and see the Midwest seasonal sights than now! And with our selection of Fall Favs, you're sure to find the perfect weekend getaway spot for this Fall color show! Come explore our picks to stay, play, and dine in the great states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan.
Settled on the Minnesota shore of Lake Superior, the city of Duluth, MN is a storied colorful town, a humble host to the arts, wilds, and attractions. So, what specifically does it have to offer? When deciding where to settle down for the evening, check out Beacon Pointe Resort, a shoreside hotel that has easy access to downtown Duluth and modern luxury in each suite. For those seeking a roadtrip, look no further than North Shore Scenic Drive. With over 150 miles of wilderness bound road, picturesque landscapes and dozens of beautiful landmarks await you in a smooth ride towards the Canada border. Before you head too far northwards, why no take a stop at the New Scenic Cafe? Their renewed focus into an improved dining experience has offered both great food and service, paired well with their Scandinavian-inspired atmosphere.
Beacon Pointe Resort
2100 east Water Street, Duluth, MN 55812 | (218) 724-1100 | Website
North Shore Scenic Drive
601 South Lake Ave., Duluth, MN 55802 | (218) 722-5545 | Website
New Scenic Cafe
5461 North Shore Drive, Duluth, MN 55804 | (218) 525-6274 | Website
The beautiful town of Minocqua, WI embraces the great outdoors in its surroundings of Minocqua Lake and in its recreation culture! When enjoying the vast trails and waves in the region, take a break or explore this one-of-a-kind town! When staying, why not look for the best place to stay? The Pointe Hotel & Suites is a top rated overlooking Minocqua Lake with great outdoor recreation and casual amenities for all of its guests. For more outdoor exploration, the seasonal Colorama Tours selection of three road trips and set the biking trails run all around the Minocqua area, offering hours of fresh air and fall sights that are sure to please! If you're looking for some local eats, nothing pairs better with good food than lakeside views. Thirsty Whale has served Minocqua with great service and good times for over 100 years, from either inside its dining room or out on the seasonal patio.
The Pointe Hotel & Suites
8269 Hwy 51 South, Minocqua, WI 54548 | (715) 356-4431 | Website
Colorama Tours [Visitors Bureau]
(715) 356-5266 | Website
Thirsty Whale
453 Park St., Minocqua, WI 54548 | (715) 356-7108 | Website
Lake County, IL hosts a collection of parks, trails, and other outdoor attractions which only enhance with the approaching Fall colors. With the seasons approaching, what is there not to love about that? For lodgings, Illinois Beach Hotel cannot be beat! Its location within the serene Illinois Beach State Park and incredible nightly rates make it the perfectly stay for large gatherings or quiet retreats. If botany is an interest, the historic Chicago Botanic Garden has a number of seasonal events such as the Seasonal Tree Walk or Fall Gardening course to embrace the Fall spirit. Thirsty? Harbor Brewing Co. can quench your thirst in a pinch with over a dozen housemade and several regional taps at their lakeside venue. Visit during one of their weekly. events or whenever you like!
Illinois Beach Hotel
100 Lake Front Dr., Zion, IL 60099 | (224) 259-2600 | Website
Chicago Botanic Garden
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, IL 60022 | (847) 835-6801 | Website
Harbor Brewing Co.
136 Cedar Ave., Lake Villa, IL 60046 | Website
What comes to mind when we think of South Bend, IN? We think of exploration and comfort without refrain. So, while you're visiting, what does South Bend have to offer? In town to see the Fighting Irish play against their rivals? Check out the Morris Inn! Founded on the iconic Notre Dame campus, this living establishment has enjoyed years of noteworthy acclaim and with good reason! Their rooms and staff make sure a stay possible with many patrons overwhelmingly praising both. As for fun, South Bend is named for being at the southmost bend in the St. Joseph River. This makes countless opportunities for aquatic and river-side fun whether rafting, fishing or biking! Looking for something to sip? IRONHAND Wine Bar provides! With years of dedication behind the craft, their quality selection of small batch wines and hors d'oeuvres will make for an unforgettable winery experience. Be sure to join them for one of their daily events this September!
Morris Inn
1399 North Notre Dame Ave., South Bend, IN 46617 | (574) 281-9988 | Website
St. Joseph River
Downtown South Bend, IN | Website
IRONHAND Wine Bar
1025 Northside Blvd., South Bend, IN 46615 | (574) 204-2700 | Website
In the northern boundaries, the town of Petoskey, MI has its share of seasonal attractions and year-round wonders! Even this far north, there's a feeling like home here. If you need a spot to settle for the evening, Stafford's Bay View Inn, one of the most charming inns on Lake Michigan, prides itself on five star service within the beautiful community of Bay View. Their amenities are perfect for any casual or seasoned visitor, and, being near the Gaslight Shopping District and Petoskey State Park, there are plenty of attractions within reach for all of its guests! What if you want even better views? SkyBridge Michigan offers panoramic views across Boyne Mountain and the surrounding region with posted live music events throughout the season to entertain guests. Seasonal access varies with expected weather, so be sure to double check their hours before booking. Lastly our bite of choice is Petoskey Brewing Company! Their grill and brewery has plenty of picks for everyone with great selections as well as in-house and local brews. The colors of the season are numerous and endlessly impressive! While these are only a few examples, we hope that these Fall Colors inspire exploration!
Stafford's Bay View Inn
2011 Woodland Ave., Petoskey, MI 49770 | (231) 347-2771 | Website
SkyBridge Michigan
1 Boyne Mountain Rd., Boyne Falls, MI 49713 | (855) 688-7024 | Website
Petoskey Brewing Company
1844 Harbor-Petoskey Rd., Petoskey, MI 49770 | (231) 753-2057 | Website
Be sure to watch the Fall Foliage Map and start planning your weekend getaway today!