5 Coolest Midwest Getaways to Beat the August Heat

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I gotta be honest. I don’t hate the heat, but I love being outside in the summer. That’s why I look for places where I can stay active without feeling miserable. I like it a lot better when I have something pretty to look at. There are no oceans, but there are some crystal clear lakes, riverside trails, shaded forests, and fresh mountain air to make it easier to spend time outdoors. In some of my other posts, I’ve shared a lot of day trips, scenic drives, hiking trails, and small towns that give me that same sense of escape. I turn to these Midwest destinations when I need a break from the worst of the August sun.

Table of Contents

• Apostle Islands, Wisconsin: Lake Superior’s Cool Breeze
• Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan: Stunning Cliffs and Fresh Lake Air
• Galena, Illinois: Historic Charm and Riverside Relaxation
• Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri: Watersports and Wooded Coves
• Porcupine Mountains, Michigan: Mountain Air and Forest Trails
• Make the Most of August’s Coolest Midwest Escapes
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Apostle Islands, Wisconsin: Lake Superior’s Cool Breeze

The Apostle Islands are a group of 21 islands along Lake Superior’s shores, about 500 miles north of Rock Island. The drive to Bayfield, Wisconsin—the gateway to the Apostle Islands—takes roughly seven and a half hours. If you plan to travel to the Midwest in August, the average high stays around 73°F, making it a cool escape from the heat. From Bayfield, you can take a boat tour to see the stunning sea caves, kayak along the islands, or relax on one of the sandy beaches. One of the most popular hikes is the Lakeshore Trail, which starts at Meyers Beach and follows the cliffs for incredible views of the sea caves.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, Michigan: Stunning Cliffs and Fresh Lake Air

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore sits between Lake Superior and Lake Michigan, about 480 miles northeast of Rock Island. The drive takes roughly seven and a half hours. If you plan to travel in the Midwest during August, temperatures reach an average of 72°F, making this a cooler option for summer. You can see colorful sandstone cliffs, hidden waterfalls, and crystal-clear lake waters. You can explore the shoreline by kayak or take a boat tour to see the cliffs up close.

The shaded trails and lake-cooled air help you escape the heat. There are trails of all lengths, from short walks to multi-day hikes. Many people come here to kayak along the towering cliffs and paddle into the sea caves, which have become one of the most popular ways to experience the lakeshore.

Galena, Illinois: Historic Charm and Riverside Relaxation

Galena sits along the Galena River, about 90 miles from Rock Island. The drive takes around two hours. In August, temperatures average about 80°F. I love walking along the river and exploring Main Street’s shops and cozy cafes. I sometimes book a river kayaking tour to spend more time on the water. But what draws me back most are the beautiful wineries. After a morning in town, I head to the vineyards to relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the views. The tree-lined streets and historic buildings create a peaceful, shaded escape from the summer heat. Some of my favorite vineyards include:

• Fergedaboudit Vineyard & Winery: French-hybrid wines, scenic views, and a peaceful patio in nearby Hanover.
• Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery: award-winning wines and a relaxing countryside setting.
• Massbach Ridge Winery: a scenic 18-acre farm about 10 miles outside town, with both vineyard and downtown tasting rooms.

Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri: Watersports and Wooded Coves

Lake of the Ozarks sits about 350 miles from Rock Island. The drive takes around six hours. If you plan to travel in the Midwest in August, temperatures average about 86°F, making the water even more inviting. I enjoy swimming, boating, fishing, and tubing on the lake. The shoreline has quiet, forested coves where I can take a secluded afternoon swim. I like to explore Ha Ha Tonka State Park, where trails wind through shaded woods and natural springs cool the air. I often end the day with a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants.

Porcupine Mountains, Michigan: Mountain Air and Forest Trails

The Porcupine Mountains sit in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, about 500 miles from Rock Island. The drive takes around eight hours. In August, temperatures average about 70°F. I hike the Escarpment Trail to take in the views over Lake Superior. I explore the dense forests and look for swimming holes at the base of waterfalls. The fresh mountain air and wooded landscape give me a true break from the summer heat.

Make the Most of August’s Coolest Midwest Escapes

I never realized how brutal Midwest summers could get. By August, the heat settles in and doesn’t let go. So I do what anyone craving fresh air would do—I go find water. The Midwest doesn’t have oceans. It never will. But the lakes and rivers do their best impression. Some even come with beaches that almost make you forget you’re landlocked. I hike under the trees, swim when I can, or sit by the water with a book, letting the breeze cut through the heat. Maybe you’ve been to some of these places. Or maybe you’ve got a better Midwest escape I haven’t found yet. Add it to the comments below.

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_{Midwest Travel: Top 5 Cool Escapes to Beat the August Heat is sponsored and/or contains affiliate links, from which I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support! All opinions are mine.}

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