The Best Midwestern Destinations for a Minimoon or Honeymoon

These romantic spots and hotels are the best of the midwest—and perfect for a newlywed trip with your partner.

Whether you're in need of a domestic locale for your honeymoon, a minimoon destination (perfect if you're having a delayed newlywed vacay) or just an idea for a weekend road trip with your partner, you'll find that some of the most romantic spots in the country are where you'd least expect them—and maybe even in your backyard. That's right—we've compiled some of the sweetest places to get away, all located in the Midwest, and you might just realize a vacation in Wisconsin rivals one in the Caribbean (yes, really).

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

The Dells are named after the dells of the Wisconsin River (which is striking, by the way). Hide away in a resort that's tucked into the forest—but doesn't lack any of the romantic amenities you'd expect, like hot tubs, steam rooms, massages and lots of champagne on tap.

Where to stay: Sundara Inn and Spa

Chesterton, Indiana

You might not have realized that Indiana's home to acres of beaches and sand (known as the Indiana Dunes) on Lake Michigan. If that sounds like paradise, you'll love staying in Chesterton, surrounded by sprawling sand dunes and located right on the lake.

Where to stay: Duneswalk Inn

Saugatuck, Michigan

Located on Lake Kalamazoo, Saugatuck is the charming lake town you've been dreaming of (check out the famed Oval Beach to see what we're talking about). You'll love staying in the cozy, old-fashioned Hotel Saugatuck.

Where to stay: Hotel Saugatuck

Lead, South Dakota

Come to mountainous Lead in the summer for waterfalls and canyons and stay in the winter for snowmobiles and coziness. Located in the sprawling Black Hills, Spearfish Canyon Lodge is an upscale resort complete with lots of rustic, romantic touches—massive hearth fireplace, anyone?

Where to stay: Spearfish Canyon Lodge

Door County, Wisconsin

Nestled on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County's an ultra-charming gem of a getaway with miles (and miles) of shoreline. It's likely you'll fall in love all over again while exploring the waterfront, woods and parks with your partner.

Where to stay: Landmark Resort

Lutsen, Minnesota

What could be better than a lakeside getaway? No matter the season, Lutsen has romantic vibes everywhere you turn thanks to its scenic location. Stay at the Lutsen Resort for cozy details like personal fireplaces.

Where to stay: Lutsen Resort

Hocking Hills, Ohio

Hocking Hills in the backcountry of Ohio has stunning scenery, like gorgeous Cedar Falls and sprawling parks, to explore. The Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls is the perfect place to unwind, unplug and enjoy your own personal cottage.

Where to stay: Inn and Spa at Cedar Falls

The Missouri Ozarks

This wouldn't be a Midwestern getaway list without a mention of the Ozarks. The famous region in Missouri is home to some of the most stunning views in the country—and Garden House Bed & Breakfast is the perfect place to take them in, complete with airy bedrooms, private balconies and lots of room service.

Where to stay: Garden House Bed & Breakfast

Thompsonville, Michigan

If a mountain getaway sounds perfect for you, you'll love Thompsonville. The Crystal Mountain resort is nestled in a remote, romantic location, so you can simply relax, ski (of course) and get pampered with your partner.

Where to stay: Crystal Mountain Resort and Spa

Dubuque, Iowa

Surrounded by tons of trails and wildlife, Dubuque is rustic and romantic. You can even stay at an ultra-luxurious resort that's appeared on The Bachelor: Hotel Julien Dubuque. Expect a spa and chocolate-covered strawberries at every turn.

Where to stay: Hotel Julien Dubuque

Willoughby, Ohio

Right outside of Cleveland, Willoughby's the perfect place if you're interested in a wintry getaway. Stay in the Frank Lloyd Wright–designed Louis Penfield House (right on the Chagrin River) for a one-of-a-kind experience.

Where to stay: Louis Penfield House

French Lick, Indiana

French Lick in Southern Indiana is a small town with tons of activities—between its historic mineral springs, the French Lick Scenic Railway and its famous casino, you'll never run out of fun-filled things to do. The West Baden Springs Hotel is famous for its huge glass dome and overall luxe feel.

Where to stay: West Baden Springs Hotel

Chicago, Illinois

Never been to Chi-Town before? Well, obviously it's a thriving metropolis and a perfect place for foodies. You'll also find some of the most top-notch, luxurious hotels out there—and the Waldorf Astoria downtown might be the best in the city.

Where to stay: The Waldorf Astoria

Put-In-Bay, Ohio

Put-In-Bay is the closest thing you'll find to a "beach town" in northern Ohio, but it probably rivals most on the coast. Located on Lake Erie, Put-In-Bay is a charming, tiny village with no cars (you'll have to take a ferry to the island), and lots of atmospheric touches like fudge shops, swings and sunsets (of course).

Where to stay: Commodore Resort Hotel

Chetek, Wisconsin

A honeymoon favorite, Canoe Bay in Chetek, Wisconsin, offers everything you'd want out of a rustic, romantic getaway—cozy cottages, outdoor activities (like canoeing on the lake) and atmospheric in-room massages and breakfast. Yes, please.

Where to stay: Canoe Bay

Clear Lake, Iowa

Clear Lake is exactly what it sounds like—and you'll probably fall in love. It's the perfect, enchanting lake town, plus it offers lots of activities for music-loving couples, like song-filled street fairs, shows and a spirited musical community.

Where to stay: Dickson's Landing