Travel Trends for the Explorer in the Midwest: Solo Trips, Group Tours, and Cultural Immersions

For seasoned travelers across the Midwest, the open road is calling louder than ever. With its blend of natural beauty, rich heritage, and welcoming communities, the region offers a perfect canvas for those 50 and older to craft meaningful journeys—whether solo, social, or steeped in culture.

1. Solo Travel: Rediscovering the Self in Familiar Landscapes

Midwestern solo travelers are embracing the freedom to explore at their own rhythm. From peaceful lakeside cabins in Minnesota to the rolling prairies of Kansas, solo trips offer space for reflection and renewal.

Top solo-friendly spots:

• Door County, WI – for quiet shoreline strolls and art galleries

• Hocking Hills, OH – for forest hikes and cozy lodges

• Galena, IL – for historic charm and antique hunting

Tip: Many regional inns and B&Bs offer solo traveler discounts or themed weekends for individual guests.

2. Group Tours: Shared Stories, Shared Roads

Group travel in the Midwest is thriving, especially among those seeking connection and curated experiences. Whether it’s a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi or a guided tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural gems, these trips blend ease with enrichment.

Popular group experiences:

• Great Lakes lighthouse tours

• Amish Country culinary excursions in Indiana and Ohio

• Fall foliage train rides through Michigan and Wisconsin

Why it works: Group tours offer safety, structure, and the joy of shared discovery—without the hassle of planning.

3. Cultural Immersions: Living the Midwest Story

The Midwest is a mosaic of cultures, and travelers over 50 are diving deeper into its stories. From Native American heritage sites to Scandinavian festivals, cultural immersion is becoming a top priority for those seeking more than just sightseeing.

Immersive ideas:

• Attend a powwow in South Dakota or Minnesota

• Take a quilting or folk art class in Iowa

• Join a local storytelling night or music jam in Missouri

Bonus: Many small towns offer artist residencies, volunteer opportunities, or homestays that foster authentic connections.

4. Practical Trends: What’s Fueling the Midwest Journey

According to AARP’s 2025 Travel Trends, older adults are taking nearly four trips per year, with domestic travel leading the way. In the Midwest, affordability, accessibility, and nostalgia are key motivators. Many travelers are revisiting childhood vacation spots or exploring nearby states they’ve long overlooked.

Notable trends:

• RV travel and glamping are booming among 50+ adventurers

• Multi-generational trips to state parks and lake resorts are on the rise

• Wellness retreats focused on nature, mindfulness, and movement are gaining traction

Final Thought: The Midwest Is More Than a Stopover—It’s a Destination