The Midwestern United States, that land generally thought of as bounded by the Great Lakes and the Ohio and Mississippi River Valleys and the states of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan, Illinois, and Wisconsin, may well be America’s largest “melting pot.” The cultural cross section is not only huge but the flavors, cuisines, festivals, and overall atmosphere of these areas are varied as that of Europe.

Chicago, the region’s largest city, has many of the finest shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions in the country. Milwaukee and Minneapolis are not only economically important but are sophisticated centers that draw visitors from around the globe. No where is outdoor recreation so valued as in the Great Lakes region. Pristine national parks in wilderness areas, waterfront beaches in city centers and miles of hiking and biking trails offer endless opportunity for getting close with nature. Four very different climactical seasons bring such diversity as ice fishing and snowmobiling in winter to golf, boating and swimming in summer. The “heartland of America” is also known for friendliness and hospitality like no other.