Peninsula State Park in Door County
The Most Beautiful Lakes To Visit In The Midwest
By DANIEL FEININGER
This premier aquatic destination in Missouri has a surface area of about 55,000 acres and 1,150 miles of shoreline that weaves through many lakefront communities.
Lake of the Ozarks
Watersports are immensely popular activities, but the forested backdrop and majestic scenery are a great way to recharge for those looking for relaxation.
Whether fishing or on a sunset cruise, this is a fantastic place to unwind in a magical marine environment with many great beaches and family fun.
West Okoboji Lake
As the deepest lake in Iowa, the water has seriously clear visibility, and spots like Emerson Bay State Recreation Area offer boat ramps, hiking trails, and a bird-watching deck.
Attractions like Arnolds Park Amusement Park and the historic Abbie Gardner Cabin and Museum epitomize the American Midwest and help make this a wholesome vacation spot.
Flanked between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, this Wisconsin county has been called the "Cape Cod of the Midwest" for its beautiful lakes, coastal towns, and lighthouses.
Door County
With picturesque recreational waters, you can boat a canal to two historic lighthouses, explore wildlife refuge areas, and cruise to Washington, Plum, or Rock Islands.
While Milwaukee boasts the amenities of big city life, the peace and calm of being on the shores of Lake Michigan help the city retain its unique small-town vibe.
Lake Michigan
There are many parks and beaches on the 1,400 acres of recreational shorelines. You can relax on the sand downtown at Bradford Beach or take in city views cruising on waterways.
Just a few miles from Mount Rushmore, this picturesque lake in Custer State Park is a serene aquatic destination ideal for fishing, hiking, and watersports of all kinds.
Sylvan Lake
The pristine blue water and stunning rocky formations surrounding the lake make for a beautiful piece of scenery that's hard to match.