Discovering Fall Foliage: Midwest

Known as America’s Heartland, the Midwest—which includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin—is home to farming and manufacturing sectors, friendly people, wide open spaces and a slower pace of life. Instead of Fortune 500 companies, you’ll find more mom-and-pop shops, and rather than traffic jams caused by cars, you might just see a slowdown caused by a tractor or stray cow. 

Without oceans to help regulate the temperature, summers in the Midwest are sultry and winters are just plain frigid. Fall, on the other hand, is beautiful, with temperatures generally ranging from 50 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

One of the most beautiful trees found in the Midwest is the red oak. These giants, which grow at a rate of about two feet per year and can reach a height of 75 feet, turn a deep red and maintain their stunning color throughout the fall. With a spread of up to 45 feet, the red oak creates substantial shade, as well. 

Traditional fall activities in the Midwest include the typical pumpkin and apple picking, corn mazes, and hay rides. However, this region of the country is also known for its melting pot of cultural events, making it the perfect place to breathe in the crisp air, view the vibrantly colored trees, and take a sip of that hot apple cider.