From terrific water bodies and wide-open plains to rugged mountains, there are a lot of hidden gems to discover in the Midwest. The roads leading to these spots offer unparalleled views to keep everyone awake. The routes don’t just offer beautiful views since there are numerous spots where adrenaline seekers can pull over and engage in exciting activities. Here’s what these ten road trips have to offer.

10 Hocking Hills Scenic Byway, Ohio

This 26-mile route is one of Ohio’s crown jewels. There are plenty of charming spots that are enough to turn a one-day drive into a multi-day journey. Outdoorsy families will appreciate every second spent on this road, thanks to the jaw-dropping points of interest. The Cantwell Cliff is a popular spot that blows the mind of many with its beauty. Here, adventurers enjoy the views of a rock shelter, gorgeous valley floor, and water flowing on a reddish-brown stone. The ash cave, cedar falls, and rock house are other sights to visit while taking this road trip.

Related: The Ultimate Midwest National Parks Road Trip

9 Door County Coastal Byway (DCCB), Wisconsin

Winding through charming villages, orchards, sparkling ocean views, and deep green forests, this 66-mile long road makes up for an enthralling family adventure. The loop leads tourists to an iconic point of interest, Baileys Harbor. Families can explore the boutiques and museums or enjoy the incredible views of light stations. The town of sister bay is another charming stopover. Besides soaking up in the majestic views of the bay, visitors can dine at notable restaurants and attend family events.

8 Great River Road National Scenic Byway, Wisconsin

There are many attractions and landmarks to discover on this road, all promising to leave families in awe. And, more importantly, with unforgettable memories. The byway follows the Mississippi River, where adventurers can take in the dramatic views of the blue waters and evergreen forests. Travelers can stop by Perrot State Park to have an up-close view of the river. That’s not all. This park is located in a spot that opens the door for hiking, fishing, biking, and canoeing.

Related: 10 Amazing Distilleries You Have To Tour In The Midwest

7 Lincoln Heritage Scenic Byway, Kentucky

This scenic byway allows families to enjoy the views of heart-stopping landscapes. The stretch covers 67 miles, where tourists can discover small towns with friendly locals, historical centers, civil war sites, and other natural beauties. The Lincoln Museum (M1) is a charming center that packs dioramas of Lincoln’s life, souvenirs, and other artifacts, allowing tourists to understand American history even more. There are places to eat and refresh along the way, ensuring even the moodiest kids have an exciting adventure.

6 Ohio River Scenic Byway, Indiana

A drive down this road leaves families with a special appreciation of nature. It follows some of the most magnificent rivers, well-kept vineyards, forested hills, and historical sites that make the entire journey worthwhile. In Illinois, travelers pass through Shawnee National Forest, a spectacular spot that provides many recreational activities for all ages. Along the route, there are places where travelers can leave their car behind and head to the Ohio River to engage in some water-based activities.

5 Black Hills, South Dakota

This is one of South Dakota’s most exciting drives. It’s for families yearning to make classic memories while on the move as the route boasts numerous breathtaking landmarks. From incredible rock formations to stunning caves, there are a lot of goodies to witness on this road trip. A major and must-visit attraction is Mount Rushmore, where families can gaze at the outstanding sculptures of the four U.S. presidents. Travelers can take different trails to observe the curves from different angles.

4 Flint Hills National Byway, Kansas

Kansas is home to some of the most enchanting road trips in the Midwest, but the Flint Hills National Byway effortlessly steals the show. The route stretches up to 48 miles, where guests are graced with gorgeous views of endless grasslands, cerulean skies, historical sites, and unique towns. The Tallgrass Prairie National Preserve is a must-stop. Here, guests can tour the historic ranch buildings and have a deeper understanding of the tallgrass prairie ecosystem. There are nature trails to explore before embarking on the journey.

3 Edge Of The Wilderness Scenic Byway, Minnesota

Here’s a staggering route that allows families to immerse themselves in spectacular views and appreciate northern Minnesota’s history. Besides transporting adventurers to a world of tranquility, this route has stopovers where families can participate in intriguing activities. Whether cross-country skiing, camping, fishing, or hiking, this road drive promises recreational seekers long-lasting experiences.

2 Chan Sansan Scenic Backway, North Dakota

This backway ensures families have a trip filled with unforgettable memories as it boasts multiple points of interest. It offers fascinating scenes of the James River Valley, which is surrounded by colorful wildflowers and tall grass prairie. Along the way, travelers can also observe historical spots that reveal the Native American culture. And this makes it easy for tourists to feel what life was like for early settlers. The entire trip is a photogenic delight, so travelers shouldn’t leave their cameras behind.

1 North Shore, Minnesota

With magnificent views of lakes, deep green forests, and unique waterfalls, the North Shore route is one of the most classic road trips in the Midwest. Families can start the scenic adventure at Duluth and then drive about 30 miles to Two Harbors to have a quintessential North Shore experience. The Gooseberry Falls State Park boasts several intermediate hiking trails that adults and kids can take to connect with nature. After exhausting the gorgeous points, families can visit the notable Split Rock Lighthouse, which is one of the most photographed locations in Minnesota.

From Two Harbors, adventurers can hop to Silver Bay, Tofte town, Grand Marais, and Grand Portage.