Midwestern getaways everyone should experience at least once.

These majestic creatures find overnight solace in the vast, flat, and shallow Platte River.

Consider checking out theCrane Trustfor its overnight VIP experience, complete with heated bird blinds.

Chicago River Cityscape at Sunset

Credit: Mlenny/Getty Images

To observe the natural beauty of the cranes in another way, visit theStuhr Museumin Grand Island.

Not so enchanted by the Mississippi?

Consider another of Viking’s regional options,a cruise expedition to all five Great Lakes.

Sandhill Crane Migration in Nebraska

Bill Frakes Photography

The Indy 500 is also the largest single-day sporting event globally.

While there, a great option for lodging is theBottleworks Hotel.

Voyageurs National Park in Minnesota

Experience abundant natural beauty in northern Minnesota’sVoyageurs National Park.

Viking River Cruise on the Mississippi River

Courtesy of Viking Cruises

The 71,000-acre Custer State Park also deserves a spot on your must-see list.

Pro tip: Plan an early May visit to see baby bison and other newborn animals.

Chicago skyline

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A horse drawn carriage in Mackinac Island

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Cars racing during the Indianapolis 500

Courtesy of Indy 500

Night sky filled with stars at Voyageurs National Park

Courtesy of Explore Minnesota Tourism

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and Museum, Cleveland, Ohio

Lesley Ann Miller/Getty Images

Badlands National Park in South Dakota

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Great River Road, Stockholm Fall Winding Road in Stockholm, Wisconsin

Courtesy of Travel Wisconsin