Midwest City Skylines and Views: Favorite Views of Midwestern Cities of All Sizes
Midwestern cities of all sizes have some truly fabulous views! On quite a few of my adventures recently, I have enjoyed some pretty spectacular city views. So, I thought that I would collect a few true treasures here in the Midwest with the help of some of my Midwest travel writer friends to help us all with some trip planning. Whether you are looking for a skyline full of skyscrapers, a melding if historic buildings, beautiful cities along the waterfront, cities blending into the countryside or anything in between, there is a view certainly here to inspire you! Enjoy our favorites across the Midwest:
Illinois
Chicago:
Sweet Home Chicago is not short on stunning views! Flo from Flo's Favorites has assembled a magnificent selection of spots to enjoy views of Chicago. My favorite is the view from Offshore at Navy Pier. Definitely, check out Best Places to View Chicago's Skyline for more inspiration!
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| Chicago's skyline from Offshore at Navy Pier. Image credit Flo from Flo's Favorites. |
Indiana
South Bend:
For a unique way to experience South Bend, Chrysa from Thrifty Jinxy suggests trying white water rafting on the East Race Waterway right through Downtown South Bend. The East Race Waterway truly gives a unique city perspective different from more traditional observation decks and overlooks!
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| The East Race Waterway of South Bend, Indiana. Image credit Chrysa of Thrifty Jinxy. |
Iowa
Dubuque:
From atop the Fenelon Place Elevator, my family enjoyed a perfect view of Dubuque and the Mississippi River just beyond! The Fenelon Place Elevator is fun, has an interesting story and treats to a wonderful view!
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| Dubuque from above after riding the Fenelon Place Elevator. |
Iowa City:
Kylie from Between England & Iowa suggests relaxing at Vue Rooftop with fabulous views of Iowa City, outdoor seating with a fire pit and fabulous gastronomic food selections.
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| View of Iowa City from Vue Rooftop. Image credit Kyle from Between England & Iowa. |
Topeka:
Skyline Park in Topeka allows you to combine a little hiking with a stunning view of the Topeka skyline. The whole skyline can be seen from the north summit of the Burnett's Mound Trails. Sounds like a perfect adventure!
Michigan
Grand Rapids:
During our weekend in Grand Rapids, we soaked in views of significant buildings while walking along the Grand River! If you are looking for a fabulous overlook view, check out Lookout Park for a scenic view of the city.
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| Views of Grand Rapids along the Grand River. |
Duluth:
Climbing to the top of Enger Tower in Duluth rewarded my husband and I with a fantastic view of the city including the remarkable Aerial Lift Bridge as well as the surrounding area!
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| Duluth views from atop Enger Tower. |
Minneapolis is full of great views! Chrysa from Thrifty Minnesota recommends exploring the Stone Arch Bridge which you can walk across and revel in a unique perspective. For the best views of Minneapolis, she suggests views from the Mill City Museum and the Guthrie Theater's observation deck which is free and open to the public.
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| Exploring views of the Stone Arch Bridge in Minneapolis. Image credit Chrysa of Thrifty Minnesota. |
New Ulm:
In New Ulm, Minnesota, Katy of Flint & Co. suggests climbing the magnificent Hermann Monument. Ninety-one stairs will reward you with a fantastic view of New Ulm.
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| Fantastic view of New Ulm from atop the Hermann Monument. Image credit Katy of Flint & Co. |
Missouri:
Kansas City:
For spectacular views of Kansas City, Sage from Everyday Wanderer recommends either the base of the WWI Museum and Memorial or survey the skyline from The Scout Statue!
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| Spectacular view of Kansas City from The Scout monument. Image credit Sage of Everyday Wanderer. |
When I lived in the St. Louis area, one of my favorite views of St. Louis was actually from atop Monk's Mound at Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site. The historic site is incredibly significant as a large and sophisticated Mississippian settlement. The view is an added bonus!
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| St. Louis from atop Monk's Mound. |
Nebraska
Omaha:
While exploring Omaha, Jess from Part Time Tourists recommends basking in the view of Omaha from the Lewis and Clark Scenic Overlook. The spectacular view is quite the addition to an adventure to Omaha!
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| Omaha unfolds before you from the Lewis and Clark Scenic Overlook. Image credit Jess of Part Time Tourists. |
North Dakota
Bismarck:
State capitol buildings are always unique full of state treasures, art and history. The North Dakota State Capitol includes an additional incredible experience -- a fantastic view of Bismarck and the surrounding area from 18th floor observation deck!
Ohio
Cincinnati:
Leah of Yoder Toter Blog marveled at the view of Cincinnati from the observation deck of the Carew Tower. The Observation Deck can be a little tricky to find, so check out Leah's post Itinerary for a Perfect Summer Weekend in Cincinnati for tips. What a view!
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| Cincinnati unfolds in front of visitors atop Carew Tower. Image credit Leah from Yoder Toter Blog. |
South Dakota
Sioux Falls:
Falls Park Visitor Information Center is home to a viewing tower that rewards visitors with fantastic views of the falls and the city in the background. Nature and city combined!
Wisconsin
Kenosha:
Blending history with fabulous views, Katy of Flint & Co. suggests climbing to the top of Southport Lighthouse for expansive views of Lake Michigan and the city. History, lake views and the city in one!
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| Views from Southport Lighthouse include Lake Michigan and Kenosha. Image credit Katy of Flint & Co. |
Milwaukee:
Milwaukee is another city with no shortage of views. One of my favorites is from Harbor House where you can enjoy a view of the Milwaukee Art Museum and city buildings emerging behind. Harbor House is also on Lake Michigan's shoreline, so what more could you ask for? Lakeshore State Park and South Shore Park are also known for their views.
Let's share! What views would you suggest? Share in the comments!
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