15 Destinations for Romantic Getaways in the Midwest

A romantic getaway with your sweetie is the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day or your wedding anniversary. But there is no need to wait for a special celebration to get out of town with your significant other!

The Midwest offers so many great destinations for a romantic weekend away. Do big cities bring out your playful side? Or do you prefer small-town charm as you reconnect with your better half? Maybe spending time off the beaten path is what you and your sweetie crave.

My list of 15 destinations for a romantic getaway in the Midwest offers great options for any couple. Pick one and schedule your next weekend away or work your way through the whole list.

1. Indianapolis, Indiana

I had to start close to home with the bustling, but not too big, city of Indianapolis. Indy probably isn’t the first city you think of when dreaming of a romantic getaway, but it should be!

Dine at a world-class restaurant such as St. Elmo’s Steakhouse or Mama Carolla’s Old Italian Restaurant. Then take a carriage ride around Monument Circle or stroll along the Canal at White River State Park and, romance is sure to ensue.

Depending on your interests, spend time museum hopping from the Indiana State Museum, the Eiteljorg, and the Indiana History Center. Take in a live performance at the Indiana Repertory Theatre or enjoy some laughs at Comedy Sportz.

For more ideas on what to do in Indianapolis, check out Visit Indy, and find out how I act like a tourist in my own hometown!

2. Shipshewana, Indiana

To truly get away from the daily grind, head to northern Indiana for a weekend in Shipshewana. This is Amish Country and everything moves a bit slower…perfect for reconnecting with your love.

Book your stay at one of the fabulous BnBs in Shipshewana and see what Hoosier Hospitality is all about. I highly recommend Morton House (formerly the Morton Street Inn) for the ideal location, stylish decor, and a fabulous breakfast.

While you are in Shipshewana learn about the Amish Community at the Menno-hof Museum. Browse the many stores selling unique gifts, handcrafted items, and baked goods that will make you drool. Treat yourself to some Amish cooking by visiting the farm of a local Amish family or dine at the Blue Gate Restaurant. Snuggle up with your sweetie on a horse-drawn carriage ride or take in a concert or play at the Blue Gate Theater.

To find more ways to unwind and reconnect in Shipshewana click here, and then read all about our time in Amish Country.

3. Nashville, Indiana

When you hear Nashville, your thoughts probably travel to Tennessee, but don’t forget the other Nashville! Indiana’s Nashville is in the heart of Brown County, just an hour south of Indianapolis, and it is the perfect spot for a romantic getaway. Don’t miss Nashville in the fall when nature paints a spectacular picture across the landscape!

Rent one of the many cabins in this wooded area for some romantic seclusion. Choose from rustic options or luxury cabins, whichever matches your style. We love renting cabins in Brown County State Park where we have access to tons of hiking trails as well as the Abe Martin Lodge, complete with an indoor water park and dining hall.

Pop over to downtown Nashville for several blocks of the cutest shops and eateries you have ever seen. Sample some fudge, go wine tasting, or dine at one of the local restaurants to break up your shopping spree.

Go here to learn even more about what Nashville, Indiana in Brown County has to offer.

4. Madison, Indiana

Another one of my favorite Indiana towns is Madison. Located in the southeast part of the state, Madison sits along the Ohio River between Louisville and Cincinnati.

I never visit Madison without stopping by the Lanthier Winery. The wine tasting is fabulous any time of the year, but if you visit over the holidays you are in for a real treat.  Lanthier Winery showcases hundreds of themed Christmas trees tucked into every nook and cranny.

Other notable stops in Madison include the historic Lanier Mansion and Dr. William Hutching’s Office & Museum. Wander through town with your main squeeze as you check out the shops filled with art, antiques, and unique gifts. Spend some time in Madison’s cafes, coffee shops, and bars, or get back to nature with a visit to Clifty Falls State Park.

Find out all there is to do in Madison, Indiana by clicking here, and then read more about what draws me to this small town during the holidays.

5. Louisville, Kentucky

Just across the river from Indiana, you will find lovely Louisville, Kentucky. Stay in the heart of the city for round-the-clock fun with your significant other.

Take an early morning walk across the Big Four Bridge as you enjoy some fresh air and physical activity. Spend the afternoon exploring the Louisville Slugger Museum and Factory or venture out to Churchill Downs to try your luck at horse betting. Visit a couple of distilleries to sample a variety of Kentucky’s famous bourbons and then take in the nightlife and many dining options along Fourth Street Live.

Louisville is for lovers! Click here to learn more about the bustling city and find out my favorite things to do when I visit Louisville.

6. Nashville, Tennessee

Keep heading south and you’ll find yourself in THE Nashville, Tennessee.

If you are a country music fan there is no better place to hang out with your dance partner than Music City. Pop in and out of the honky-tonks as you boot, scoot, and boogie your way down Broadway Street. Or learn about many music legends in the Country Music Hall of Fame.

Not big country music fans? No worries as Nashville has plenty of bars with live music spanning the spectrum, from jazz to blues, to rock and roll.

Anytime I’m in Nashville I insist on spending at least a few hours at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel. The property includes numerous restaurants, boutique shops, waterfalls, a winding river and so much more all under one massive roof.

If you feel like splurging, book a room at the Gaylord with an atrium view. Otherwise, park at the adjacent Opry Mills Mall and walk over to the hotel to avoid the steep parking fee. Then spend the afternoon just getting lost inside this opulent hotel. For a real treat, catch a performance at the Grand Old Opry right next door.

Discover all that Music City has to offer by clicking here.

7. Gatlinburg, Tennessee

Gatlinburg and neighboring Pigeon Forge offer tons of activities for the whole family, but this area of Tennessee also makes for a special rendezvous for lovers.

Hole up in a cabin with a hot tub. Hike through breathtaking mountains. Wander down the strip of eclectic shops and restaurants. Throwback some moonshine and take in a kitschy show. Even better yet, spend the day at delightful Dollywood!

If you and your partner are ready to tie the knot or renew your vows, Gatlinburg is the perfect setting. I can attest to the magic of celebrating your nuptials at Mountaintop Mansion!

Plan your own Gatlinburg getaway right here.

8. Granville, Ohio

I’ll move on to the great state of Ohio, where there are numerous towns worth mentioning. Let me start with Glorious Granville, which is located in the center of the state about 40 minutes east of Columbus.

This college town is home to Denison University as well as numerous unique bed and breakfasts. I can’t say enough good things about the accommodations and the cuisine at The Granville Inn.

Completely manageable on foot, Granville boasts several blocks of quaint shops, enticing confectionaries, and an array of delectable dining options. It’s the perfect town for strolling hand in hand with your sweetie on a pretty day.

Learn all there is to do in Granville by clicking here and then take a glimpse at my recent romantic weekend in this Midwestern town.

9. German Village, Ohio

Just south of Columbus Ohio is the enchanting German Village. Settled by German Immigrants, this tiny town will have you dreaming that you were transported overseas.

Dine at Schmidts for some authentic German food and don’t miss Schmidts Fudge Haus just across the street. Wander the cobblestone streets as you admire the quaint homes. Pop in and out of the gift shops sprinkled throughout town. Admire the fine German craftsmanship and consider adding to your collection of nutcrackers.

Spend some time in Hausfrau Haven sipping a glass of wine or throwing back a pint of beer. Then get lost in The Book Loft with its 32 rooms of books and winding corridors. This just may be heaven for anyone who loves books!

Find out more about the history and current attractions in German Village by clicking here, and then get my full take on this charming town.

10. Hubbard, Ohio

Hubbard is definitely off the beaten path in Northeast Ohio, but sometimes the best thing for your relationship is to just get away from it all!

While there may not be a ton of activity in Hubbard, it is home to an amazing Bed and Breakfast that is the perfect spot for reconnecting with your better half. Julia’s BnB boasts 6 unique rooms, each with opulent decorations.

I highly recommend Julia’s Suite with the large in-room tub and fireplace. This setting is sure to spark romance and you may not even want to leave the room to indulge in the decadent breakfast!

If you can manage to tear yourself away from the plush rooms and the weather is nice, you and your main squeeze can enjoy a round of golf on the beautiful property.

Read more about our overnight stay in Hubbard, and then book your stay at Julia’s BnB right here.

11. Chicago, Illinois

Hopping west, and back to a place with constant action, is Chicago, Illinois. With so much to see and do in this world-class city, you could easily spend a week in Chicago. But if a few days are all you and your partner can spare, Chicago has tons to offer.

Consider a riverboat cruise or the hop-on hop-off bus to get great views and learn all about Chicago. Shop the high-end stores along the Magnificent Mile. Find a rooftop bar and enjoy your favorite adult beverages as you marvel at the Chicago skyline.

With literally thousands of restaurants to choose from you and your sweetie can find the exact right cuisine to fit your taste and your budget. We celebrated our anniversary at The Dearborn and they pulled out all the stops to make it a memorable dining experience. Cap off your night with a Broadway Show or snuggle close at Navy Pier as you take in the Saturday night fireworks.

Choose Chicago can help you plan the perfect romantic weekend in the windy city. And I’ve got a few ideas of my own for how to spark romance in Chicago!

12. Galena, Illinois

Galena is definitely my go-to Midwestern town for a romantic weekend! Three years ago we found Galena, Illinois on a list of amazing small towns and headed out on a road trip that sparked our desire to plan even more weekend getaways.

If small-town charm is your thing then Galena is definitely a destination worth checking out! In far west Illinois, Galena boasts a long strip of unique boutique shops with wineries and restaurants sprinkled throughout. Vinny Vanucchi’s is the perfect spot for a fine Italian dinner.

If you are like me, then staying at a Bed and Breakfast just screams romance. Galena has no shortage of fabulous BnBs to suit just about any taste. We opted for the Cloran Mansion, and I don’t think we could have made a better choice. From the comfortable bed, plush bathrobes, gigantic tub, and delicious breakfast, The Cloran Mansion will always be at the top of my list of recommended accommodations.

Find out even more about Galena by clicking here, and get a peek inside our weekend getaway in this charming small town.

13. Saugatuck, Michigan

Did you know there are beaches in the Midwest? Along Lake Michigan, there are numerous beach towns that can quench your thirst for sand and sun. Depending on the time of year the water may be too cool for a dip, but sometimes all you need to recharge is the sound of the waves and the feel of sand between your toes.

Saugatuck is the perfect Michigan beach town for a romantic getaway. It’s just a short drive to the beach and many of the accommodations offer a view of Kalamazoo lake.

Saugatuck has several blocks of upscale shops in this walkable town. There are also numerous beach-themed restaurants offering tasty meals and even better cocktails. These hotspots really come alive after dark when the live music starts and sing-a-longs are sure to ensue.

Learn all that Saugatuck, Michigan has to offer by clicking here, and then read about my spontaneous weekend away in this charming beach town.

14. Mackinac Island, Michigan

If you are looking for a grand getaway then look no further than Mackinac Island. Located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Mackinac Island is a one-of-a-kind destination.

No cars or motorized vehicles are allowed on the island, which is a big part of its charm. Visitors take a ferry to get to the island and then preferred modes of transportation include bikes, horses and carriages, and your own two feet.

Every few yards you will stumble upon a shop selling Mackinac Island’s world-famous fudge. Venture beyond the streets lined with shops and restaurants to explore the 80% of the island preserved as a state park. Arch Rock is a natural wonder not to be missed.

For those wishing to splurge, spend a night or two in the Grand Hotel. More budget-savvy couples may prefer staying in one of the island’s other more modestly priced BnBs, but don’t miss the opportunity to wander through the opulent Grand Hotel.

For more details about Mackinac Island, click here, and then read about my time on this endearing island.

15. Sayner, Wisconsin

I would venture to say this destination isn’t on anyone else’s radar, but it has been a favorite travel spot of my family for decades. Sayner, Wisconsin is a tiny town tucked away in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, and it is the perfect place to get away as a couple and unplug from daily life.

Nestle yourselves in a cozy cabin and roast marshmallows over the fire. Venture to the neighboring towns of Minocqua, Eagle River, and Boulder Junction to check out cute boutiques and gift shops full of cabin decor. Dine at one of Wisconsin’s infamous supper clubs. Spend time together enjoying the water sport of your choice or simply lounging by one of the many peaceful lakes in this area. Admire nature’s beauty as you hike or bike through this wooded wonderland.

Summer and fall may be the peak season for Sayner, but I adore being Up North in late fall when the ground is likely covered with a beautiful blanket of snow.

Put Sayner on your travel radar and find out more about this peaceful community by clicking here, then read all about our recent stay in Wisconsin’s Winterwonderland.

Where will you and your significant other go to get away this year?

Don’t put off that romantic getaway any longer. Surprise your sweetie with a trip to any one of these destinations in the Midwest and watch the romantic sparks fly!

Have you visited any of these 15 destinations? Share your experience in the comments below and add other midwest destinations that you find perfect for romance.

Wherever the road takes you, make it a joyous journey,
Traveling Tanya

P.S. Subscribe to my email list here and never miss out on any of Traveling Tanya’s exciting excursions or travel tips…plus I’ll send you my free Packing List!

Pin It For Later!