TIME magazine has released its list of the best places to visit and stay in the world, and a group of Midwest spots broke into the top 100 in this year’s edition.
According to the publication, editors solicited nominations for spots from correspondents and contributors, and prioritized “new and exciting experiences.”
The list has been expanded from 50 cities to 100 destinations for the 2024 edition, and four of those destinations are in the Midwest.
Here’s a look at the best locations within driving distance of the Chicago area.
The Manchester–Lexington, Kentucky
The hotel, located in the city’s Distillery District, has 125 rooms with a custom bottle shop, lobby bar and rooftop bar, according to Lexington tourism officials.
Lexington is best known as home to the University of Kentucky, but it’s also home to many iconic distilleries, horse farms, and other historic landmarks, including a home where former first lady Mary Todd Lincoln grew up.
The Inn at Stonecliffe – Mackinac Island, Michigan
A massive renovation of the hotel has restored its picturesque beauty, with “breathtaking views and cultural history” abounding, according to Mackinac Island tourism officials.
A large lakeside lawn offers incredible views of the Mackinac Bridge, as well as the strait that connects Lake Huron and Lake Michigan. There is also an apple orchard and bird sanctuary on site, as well as beehives and a huge garden.
CPKC Stadium – Kansas City, Missouri
The newly opened stadium is home to the NWSL team Kansas City Current and is the first privately funded stadium ever built for a women’s soccer team.
According to Time, all of the stadium’s seats are located within 100 feet of the playing surface, making it an incredible experience for fans looking to stay close to the action.
The Rabbit Hole – North Kansas City, Missouri
The museum “celebrates and revives a century of American children’s literature,” according to its website.
The museum offers immersive, multi-sensory experiences for children and adults, and also includes a bookstore, makerspace, resource library and print shop, providing a hugely fun experience for visitors of all ages.
