Check these Midwest adventures off your bucket list

The lazy, hazy days of summer stretch out before us, lulling us with their golden promises of fun in the sun and warm-weather adventures. But before we know it, the leaves will be changing colors. Summer always slips by too quickly.

To make the most of these sunny days, plan some outings rather than waiting for inspiration to strike. Start with these bucket list ideas for places across the Midwest that are worth the time and effort. The eclectic mix includes road trips, outdoor recreation, and historic luxury—with a hearty dose of water. Consider adding some of these items to your own summer vacation to-do list.

The Great River Road roams along the mighty Mississippi River for approximately 3,000 miles through 10 states.

A proper tour of the route, which is a trip through history as well as a scenic drive, could fill weeks. If you only have a few days, start just north of St. Louis and focus on the 33-mile section in southwest Illinois from Hartford to Pere Marquette State Park. This portion overlaps the Meeting of the Great Rivers National Scenic Byway.

About 2 miles south of Hartford, get a bird’s-eye view of the area from the Lewis & Clark Confluence Tower, which overlooks where the Missouri River flows into the Mississippi River. Ride the elevators up and take in the remarkable perspective from 50, 100, and 150 feet. Adults, $6.50.

As you head north, don’t miss historic Elsah; the entire village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nineteenth-century houses line narrow streets in this town that was voted the most scenic spot in Illinois several years ago.

Farther north, you’ll come to Pere Marquette State Park, where the Civilian Conservation Corps built a beautiful stone-and-log lodge in the 1930s. After walking the trails through lush forests and rugged hills, dig in to some of the lodge’s famous fried chicken.

Indiana likely isn’t top of mind when people think of sand, but maybe it should be. Hugging the southern tip of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes National Park preserves a wealth of rugged dunes and beaches. With more than 1,100 native plant species, the 15,000-acre park is also one of the country’s most biologically rich pockets.

Headquartered in Porter, the long and narrow park stretches from Gary north to Michigan City. Fifty miles of trails offer hiking, horseback riding, and cycling opportunities as well as world-class bird-watching. From building sandcastles to exploring peaceful forests and tranquil wetlands, activities in the park provide experiences that appeal to all ages. $25 per vehicle; $15 for those walking or bicycling into the park.

Since 2006, the hotels have been united as French Lick Resort. Stay overnight to fully appreciate these grandes dames, both of which offer elegant spas, or stop in for a tour or a meal.

Nearby you can visit wineries; hop aboard a scenic train ride through Hoosier National Forest; spend a day on the water at Patoka Lake; go underground in Marengo Cave; or see elephants, giraffes, grizzly bears, and more at Wilstem Wildlife Park. Simply lounging on a chaise and staring up at the magnificent West Baden atrium dome, however, is a delightful way to pass the time.

Other additions to the Branson lineup include the Aquarium at the Boardwalk; Pink Jeep tours and off-road adventures; and Beyond the Lens!, an interactive adventure that features FlyRide, an immersive experience that will make you feel like you’re soaring above the United States.

Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area alongside Lake Taneycomo is well worth seeking out, offering great views on hikes through 140 acres of rugged country.

Some of the newer attractions include the Adrenaline Zipline Company in Camdenton, the area’s first zip-line canopy tour, and the Malted Monkey outdoor ropes course, with 3 levels and 45 obstacles, on the historic Bagnell Dam Strip.

Missouri is known as the Cave State, and one of those caves has taken on a new personality as the Cave Bar & Grill on the lake’s Big Niangua arm; the dining destination has 2 swimming pools and a sand beach.

The Ozark National Scenic Riverways area is the crown jewel of the Missouri Ozarks, and a visit here can be the crowning experience of your summer, too. This national park protects the free-flowing Current and Jacks Fork rivers, 2 of the region’s best float streams. Fishing, canoeing, and kayaking are top activities in the river park, but hiking, camping, horseback riding, and birding aren’t far behind. There’s so much to explore, with springs, mills, miles of trails, and scenic vistas around every turn.

For a summer swim to remember, try the pool at the base of Rocky Falls. Located on Rocky Creek, a tributary of the Current, Rocky Falls is arguably one of the state’s prettiest places and a popular swimming hole. Be sure to pack a lunch because the spot is relatively remote.

While in the Rocky Falls area, take time to drive through Peck Ranch Conservation Area to see the elk herd. Early morning and right before dark are the best times to watch the elk grazing in open glades. You might also see some of the famous wild horses of Shannon County; one herd is often found near Klepzig Mill along Highway NN.

Barbara Gibbs Ostmann is a writer from Gerald, Missouri.