8 Best-Selling Midwest United States Travel Guide Books Readers Can't Put Down

What started as a deep dive into the edible plants around her grew into Lisa M. Rose's detailed guide to foraging across the Midwest. You’ll find practical insights on identifying, harvesting, and preparing 115 wild plants, from burdock to wild peach, complete with vivid photographs and seasonal tips. This book suits both newcomers curious about wild edibles and seasoned foragers seeking a reliable regional reference. For example, the seasonal planner offers a handy way to track plant availability year-round, helping you connect with nature’s rhythms practically and safely.

Unlike most travel guides that focus on modern attractions, The WPA Guide to Minnesota offers a snapshot of 1930s Minnesota through the lens of the Federal Writers' Project during the Great Depression. You’ll explore detailed auto and city tours, essays on native peoples, history, arts, and even transportation and sports, all told with a lively, literary tone. The book reveals how Minnesotans lived, from barn dances to fishing licenses, providing not just nostalgia but a deeper understanding of the state's cultural and historical fabric. If you’re interested in how past traditions shape present-day Minnesota, this guide will enrich your perspective.

This personalized book explores the practical identification and use of edible wild plants across the Midwest, tailored specifically to your travel interests and experience level. It focuses on helping you recognize native flora in a variety of natural settings, providing detailed descriptions and guidance that match your background and goals. The text examines safe foraging practices, seasonal availability, and preparation methods to enrich your outdoor adventures. By integrating widely validated knowledge with your unique preferences, this tailored guide reveals how to connect deeply with the Midwestern landscape through wild edibles. It encourages hands-on learning and fosters confidence in identifying and using wild plants safely, making the experience both rewarding and educational.

Russ Lowthian’s decades as a cyclist and editor of Midwest Sportster inform this detailed guide to Wisconsin’s best road biking routes. You’ll find 41 rides mapped out with precise directions, terrain notes, and traffic considerations, all supported by clear maps and practical photos. The book doesn’t just serve seasoned riders; it’s equally accessible to beginners looking to explore the Badger State’s scenic byways. For example, the inclusion of rest stops and accommodation listings makes planning multi-day tours straightforward. If you’re seeking a resource to navigate Wisconsin’s cycling landscape confidently, this book fits the bill without overwhelming you with unnecessary jargon.

Lauren R. Rice brings her deep familiarity with Iowa to this detailed travel guide, born from countless journeys across her home state. You’ll explore everything from historic railroads and the famed state fair to hidden art museums and local wineries, with insights that reveal Iowa’s unique charm beyond typical tourist spots. The book’s practical features like kid-friendly icons, pet-friendly lodging notes, and detailed maps make planning straightforward, whether you're cycling, spelunking, or simply savoring local cuisine. If you crave an authentic experience away from crowds, this guide offers the kind of insider knowledge that helps you discover Iowa’s surprising delights.

If you’ve ever dismissed the Midwest as flat and uninspiring, Bed, Breakfast & Bike Midwest invites you to reconsider by cycling through Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio’s varied landscapes. Theresa and Robert Russell handpick 27 charming inns, from Victorian mansions to rustic lodges, each serving as a gateway to mapped bike routes starting right at your doorstep. Alongside detailed lodging and dining insights, the book offers recipes from the inns to recreate memorable breakfasts at home. Whether you’re a casual cyclist or a travel enthusiast, this guide equips you to experience the region’s hidden natural beauty and small-town charm.

This tailored book on Midwest bike touring offers a detailed exploration of planning and executing cycling adventures suited for all skill levels. It covers essential aspects such as route selection, daily pacing, gear recommendations, and safety considerations, focusing on your interests and cycling background. By integrating popular knowledge with your specific goals, it reveals a stepwise approach to designing scenic rides across the Midwest’s diverse landscapes. The content matches your background and desired challenges, guiding you through each phase of preparation and execution, while fostering a deep appreciation of the region’s natural and cultural highlights.

After analyzing Wisconsin's lesser-known historical narratives, Richard Olsenius crafted a travel companion that goes beyond typical guidebooks. This volume reveals the origins and stories behind towns scattered along Wisconsin's highways, blending historical anecdotes with maps and vintage photographs. You'll uncover episodes like Jefferson Davis's brief romance with Sarah Taylor, which adds depth to the region's history. This book suits anyone curious about the intersection of travel and history—whether you're planning a road trip or exploring from your armchair. It offers a fresh perspective on familiar routes, inviting you to see Wisconsin through a story-rich lens.

What happens when a local expert writes about her city? Katie Van Luchene, a true insider, developed this guide to reveal Kansas City's unique charm and practical details that only a resident could provide. You’ll gain insights into neighborhoods, dining spots, cultural venues, and relocation tips woven through personal narratives. The book offers a grounded perspective, steering clear of tourist clichés, making it ideal if you want a genuine feel for the city or are considering moving there. Chapters dive into everything from arts scenes to hidden parks, giving you tools to explore confidently or settle in smoothly.

What if everything you knew about Illinois travel was just the surface? Mark Moran, alongside Mark Sceurman and Troy Taylor, takes you beyond the typical tourist spots to uncover the state's most unusual legends and hidden curiosities. You'll find detailed accounts of local myths, offbeat attractions, and secret places that don't appear on standard maps, such as haunted sites and quirky roadside oddities. This book suits travelers craving more than the usual itinerary—those eager for stories and places that reveal Illinois' unique character. If your curiosity leans toward the mysterious and unconventional, this guide offers an engaging journey through the state's lesser-known wonders.