Exploring the Midwest | Family Adventure Guide

Join us on a memorable family road trip across the Midwest, from the legendary Lambeau Field to the magic of Iowa City.

History Packed Packers: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Lambeau Field was an impromptu stop during our journey. This spontaneous decision was a truly memorable part of our trip. We departed Michigan’s Upper Peninsula early to break up a long drive, which led us to spend the night at a Cabela’s – just two blocks from the Green Bay Packers headquarters. This unexpected detour allowed us to experience an iconic and historically significant American landmark. Moreover, it allowed us to try boondocking for the first time.

Green Bay Packer's Tunnel

Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a must-see for any family exploring the Midwest. Home to the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau Field is a great place to take the kids for fun and adventure. There is something for everyone, from the Packers Hall of Fame to the interactive exhibits. Kids will love the interactive exhibits, including a replica of the locker room, a virtual stadium tour, and a chance to kick a field goal. Title Town offers a wide array of kid-friendly activities. Children can enjoy playing on a spacious playground, engage in exhilarating runs or sledding adventures (depending on the season) down a hill specially constructed atop a building. For those looking for a more immersive experience, check out guided tours of Lambeau Field.  Lambeau Field offers many family-friendly activities and attractions, making it an ideal destination for you and your family.

Exploring the Waterpark Capital: Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

We planned to stop at Wisconsin Dells and booked a spot at Sherwood Forest Camping and RV Park. This charming and cozy campground offers a variety of enjoyable activities for children, including a pool, splash pad, jump pad, old-fashioned arcade, and a couple of playgrounds. Unexpected rain caught us off guard, so we enjoyed a much needed lazy day and an excellent local coffee shop.  Bella Goose Coffee Cafe was our work spot for a couple mornings.  The coffee was delightful, and let’s not forget the heavenly waffles on their menu. It was the perfect place to seek shelter from the storm and the lack of internet at the campground.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin, is a great destination for families looking for great family fun. Its many kid-friendly activities, must-sees, and must-dos make it the perfect place to create a family adventure. From the iconic Wisconsin Dells Waterparks to the breathtaking views of the Wisconsin River, there’s something for everyone. Kids will love attractions like the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, Noah’s Ark Waterpark, and the Kalahari Resort. Our kids had a blast testing their limits at Noah’s Ark Waterpark. Catering to all ages, the park offered a delightful experience for our five-year-old. At the same time, our adventurous eight-year-old daughter seized the opportunity to ride every ride, including the thrilling Stingray, resulting in an unforgettable time for the kids and adults. Wisconsin Dells offers abundant attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for a memorable family adventure.

Discover the Magic of Iowa City: A Hidden Gem in the Midwest

Being a proud University of Iowa alum, I can’t help but rave about the incredible charm of Iowa City. I was so excited to take my family to my old stomping ground.  We drove around, and then explored the campus on foot, checking out Kinnick Stadium, my old dorm, buildings where I attended class, and of course Caitlin Clark’s home, Carver – Hawkeye Arena.  There’s an abundance of family-friendly activities that are simply a must-do. Make sure to visit the University of Iowa Museum of Natural History, where captivating exhibits are bound to ignite fascinating conversations. For a delightful exploration, head to the Iowa City Public Library and stroll through the Iowa City Pedestrian Mall, brimming with local shops. If you’re fortunate enough to be there during an athletic season, don’t forget to check the Iowa Hawkeyes athletic schedule and catch some thrilling sports action. With its rich culture and plenty of activities, Iowa City is guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip.

University of Iowa Capital Building

Unfortunately, there are only a few campgrounds close to Iowa City. However, we found a great place to stay approximately thirty minutes away at Scales Point Marina and Campground, which offers additional amenities such as a bar and grill, playground, and occasional live music. If you’re a fan of boating, they also have rentals available. There are a couple of must-visit places when finding family-friendly dining options in Iowa City. Wig and Pen Pizza is a go-to spot for its delicious Chicago-style pizza and classic Wigatoni. Another local favorite is Pagliais Pizza, where you can indulge in delectable thin-crust options. And if pizza isn’t your top choice, Quintons is the place to be for incredible sandwiches and their famous, generously sized potatoes topped with creative and amazing flavors