As we're finally leaving the winter freezes behind us here in the Midwest and heading into what actually feels like spring, it's time to look ahead to a road trip!

Road trips are the easiest way to get out and see the world around you and they really require very little pre-planning. Just a bit of inspiration, a direction and some time to soak it all in.

So where will the road take you this summer, and what's the recipe for the perfect road trip?

First, find the perfect route. One of our favorite road trips in recent years started out with a wish to check another state (or 2) off my bucket list and catch a baseball game. Looking at the MLB schedule for teams within driving distance, we decided to pick two - Minnesota Twins & Milwaukee Brewers. Planning our route to get there tacked on a third state - Iowa. Bonus!

Next, add in cool outdoor experiences. Of course, if you're going for a game, that's an experience already, but why not take time to explore the surrounding cities while you're there? For example:
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In Cedar Rapids, we walked around the city in search of art.
In Minneapolis, we biked on the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway.
And in Milwaukee, we kayaked on the river.

Experience the local food & culture. Road trips are made for snacks, but once you get where you're going, seek out what's special in that place. The Midwest is known for their pork tenderloin sandwiches. In Little Bohemia, outside the Czech Village, we found the "oldest bar in CR" (Cedar Rapids) with the best pork tenderloin.

And as for culture? You just might be surprised with what you discover... Cedar Rapids, Iowa, wasn't a choice destination until we started plotting our route, but it turned out to be a great little city bursting with art and culture! Did you know the artist who painted the iconic Midwest farmer and his daughter ("American Gothic") was from Cedar Rapids? Neither did we until we started searching "what to do in Cedar Rapids."

Of course, an epic road trip requires a great place to stay. Staying someplace unique - like a treehouse, van camping or a high-class hotel can be an integral piece of your plan. Or, you can do like us and find a clean, budget-friendly hotel with free breakfast. Having a comfortable bed, fuel to start the day and a location ideally situated to the day's adventure is all that we really need (but staying in a treehouse DOES sound amazing!).

And lastly, don't forget to put together a playlist & entertainment for the drive. The driver, of course, has an important job on any road trip (getting safely to the next destination), but the co-pilot also has a lot of responsibility as navigator and DJ!
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Every one of our road trips starts with a custom rendition of "On the road again" (much to Todd's dismay. haha!). From there, the music sets the mood... Heading into Minneapolis, for example, Minnesota natives Bob Dylan and Prince are great choices.

For more detailed information, including places to stay and things to do in Minneapolis and Milwaukee, read our latest posts in the MLB Tour section:

​A Home Run in Minneapolis: Exploring Target Field and the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway​

​Baseball, Kayak & River Walk: Milwaukee Shines in the Summertime​

Enjoy your week! And happy planning...

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links for products and/or services we love. If you decide to make a verified purchase through the links in this post, I will earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). Thank you for choosing to wander with us. We hope your adventures are filled with as much joy and awe as we’ve experienced!