Plan the ultimate low-cost Midwest summer escape with our favorite hidden swimming holes, free festivals, and nostalgic ice cream joints.
☀️ Budget Adventures Are the Best Adventures
Think summer fun has to mean crowded theme parks and pricey resorts? Think again. The Midwest is full of low-cost (or totally free) summer gems that fly under the radar but hit all the nostalgic notes: open skies, cool water, fair food, and fireflies. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a spontaneous day trip, this guide will stretch your dollars without sacrificing the fun.
🏊♀️ Secret Swimming Holes to Cool Off
1. Otter Lake – Hiawatha National Forest, Michigan
Forget noisy beaches and packed lakefronts, here, the water is often yours alone. It’s cool but refreshing, shallow enough to wade out comfortably, and deep enough in parts for a good plunge. The natural sandy bottom makes for soft footing, and the scent of cedar in the air feels like nature’s own spa. If you’re craving serenity, crystal-clear waters, and the kind of silence that only old forests can offer, look no further than Otter Lake tucked deep within Hiawatha National Forest in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Otter Lake isn’t flashy, and that’s exactly the magic. It’s one of those rare Midwest spots that feels untouched, like you’ve stumbled onto something secret. Surrounded by tall pines and birches, this glacial lake offers glassy water so calm you’ll swear time slows down. It’s perfect for a swim, a paddle, or just floating under the sun.
Activities
- Swim & Float: Bring a floatie or just take a peaceful swim.
- Kayak or Paddleboard: The glassy surface is perfect for paddling.
- Pack a Picnic: Secluded shoreline spots are made for lazy lunches.
- Camp Nearby: Several rustic campgrounds in the Hiawatha Forest put you close enough to wake up and jump in.
How To Get There
- Otter Lake is located near Munising, MI, about 30 minutes from Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore. It’s accessible via forest roads (unpaved but navigable) and is best visited in summer and early fall.
Hidden Midwest Tip
- Come early in the morning or just before sunset. You’ll often catch the lake mirror-still, with loons calling in the distance. No crowds. No noise. Just you, the water, and the whispering forest.
2. Ferne Clyffe Lake – Goreville, IL
Ferne Clyffe Lake is a serene 16-acre impoundment nestled within Ferne Clyffe State Park, located approximately one mile south of Goreville, Illinois. The lake was created in the late 1950s when the Illinois Department of Natural Resources constructed an earthen dam across Buck Branch Creek. Surrounded by lush forests, the lake offers a tranquil setting for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat. A one-mile perimeter walking trail encircles the lake, providing scenic views and opportunities for leisurely strolls.
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy bank fishing at Ferne Clyffe Lake, where species such as bluegill and channel catfish are commonly found. The lake is managed as a no-wake zone, ensuring a quiet and undisturbed environment for both anglers and wildlife. While boating is not permitted, the surrounding area offers various recreational activities, including hiking and picnicking, making it a popular destination for nature lovers. We recommend staying close by at some dreamy cabins
🎡 Free Summer Festivals You’ve Never Heard Of
1. Catfish Days – Wilmington, IL
Catfish Days is Wilmington, Illinois, signature summer festival, celebrating the town’s rich history and community spirit. Originating in 1976 as part of the U.S. bicentennial, the festival honors Wilmington’s “Catfish Town” heritage, where Forked Creek’s flooding once led to the area’s nickname. After a hiatus, the festival was revived in 1999 and has since become an annual tradition. Held in late July, Catfish Days transforms the downtown area into a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a carnival, food vendors, live music, and family-friendly events. The festival kicks off with Teen Night, followed by a weekend filled with parades, car shows, and a popular Color Fun Run and Walk.
The festival’s diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone. Highlights include a pickleball tournament, a beer garden, and a flea market, alongside traditional events like the pie baking contest and the Wilmington Community Band performance. The Catfish Days Parade, a centerpiece of the celebration, showcases local organizations and adds to the festive atmosphere. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Catfish Days offers a unique opportunity to experience Wilmington’s charm and community pride.
🍟 Festival Pro Tip: Ensure that you are hydrated. We suggest this Leak-proof 24H Insulated Water Bottle. It keeps your water cool all day long and it
2. Butterfest – Sparta, WI
The Sparta Butterfest is an annual community celebration held in Sparta, Wisconsin, typically during the first weekend of June. Established in 1984, the festival was created to raise funds for local projects and has since become a cherished tradition in the area. The event is free to enter, with various activities available at no cost, including arts and crafts, softball tournaments, car shows, and quilt displays. Some events, such as the carnival and certain competitions, may have associated fees.
The festival offers a wide range of activities for all ages. Highlights include the A&P Carnival, live music performances in the Fest Tent, a parade, a cow milking contest, a cornhole tournament, and a petting zoo. Additionally, there are opportunities to participate in ATV and UTV rides, bingo, and various contests. The Sunday parade is a focal point of the celebration, featuring area bands, civic organizations, dance teams, and collector cars. The festival’s diverse lineup ensures there’s something for everyone, making it a must-attend event for both locals and visitors.
🍦 Roadside Ice Cream Stops Worth the Detour
1. Zesto Drive-In – Omaha, NE
Zesto Drive-In in Omaha, Nebraska, is a beloved local eatery known for its classic drive-in experience and delicious frozen treats. Established decades ago, Zesto has become a nostalgic spot for families and visitors seeking classic American fast food, including burgers, fries, and their signature soft-serve ice cream. The retro atmosphere, friendly service, and outdoor seating make it a popular destination, especially during the warmer months.
Beyond its tasty menu, Zesto Drive-In holds a special place in Omaha’s community, often remembered fondly by longtime residents and newcomers alike. It offers a casual, fun dining experience that captures the charm of traditional drive-in restaurants, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring local food culture in the city.
2. Whippy Dip – Decorah, IA
The Whippy Dip is a beloved seasonal ice cream shop located in Decorah, Iowa, operating from April through October. Established in 1954, it has become a cherished local institution, offering a nostalgic walk-up experience reminiscent of classic American drive-ins. Situated at 111 College Drive, the Whippy Dip serves a variety of soft-serve ice cream options, including cones, sundaes, shakes, and slushies, catering to a wide range of sweet cravings. The shop is known for its friendly service and casual atmosphere, making it a popular stop for families, students, and visitors exploring the Driftless Area.
Beyond its ice cream offerings, the Whippy Dip also serves a selection of fast food items, such as hot dogs and sandwiches, providing a quick and satisfying meal option. While the shop is cash-only, it remains a favorite destination for those seeking a classic treat in a welcoming setting. The Whippy Dip’s enduring popularity reflects its status as a staple of Decorah’s local culture and a must-visit spot for anyone in the area during the warmer months.
🧳 Bonus: What to Pack for Your Midwest Summer Adventure
- Lightweight towel to keep the Midwest humidity at bay: Quick-dry microfiber towel [Amazon]
- Bug spray (IYKYK): Deet-free Plant-Based repellent [Amazon]
- Road snacks (toddler or teenager quiet keeper): Healthy snack box sampler [Amazon]
- On-the-go cooler for all the delish ice creams: Mini cooler bag [Amazon]
- Pack smart for impromptu picnics: Foldable picnic blanket [Amazon]
- Capture the swimming hole moment without breaking the bank: Affordable waterproof action cam [Amazon]
- Don’t be the only one without the best inner tube: Top-rated inflatable river tube [Amazon]
- Avoid the UVs and protect your skin for the best selfies: Packable UPF 80 Summer Hat [Amazon]
💸 You Don’t Need a Plane Ticket to Make Summer Magic
The best summer memories aren’t made in airports; they’re found on backroads, in local parks, and at roadside stands that serve rainbow sherbet with a smile. The Midwest delivers it all, and often for less than a tank of gas. So skip the boarding pass, because the heart of summer is waiting just around the bend, where fireflies dance at dusk and every small-town stop feels like home. The Midwest isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling you’ll want to relive again and again.
So grab your cooler, pack a change of clothes, and go where the sun leads you.
📬 Free Road Trip Itinerary
Drop your email below to get our Midwest ice cream trail printable map.
