The Midwest refuses to be ignored anymore. For too long, the north-central section of the country was driven through and flown over. No one was making unnecessary stops, much less planning entire trips to the region. My how things have changed. Missouri, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Minnesota are turning into destinations. Big destinations. Here are five places you need to visit.

Ann Arbor: Go to Michigan. Stay in a college town with a liberal vibe. Sleep in a new hotel only three blocks from campus. Explore gardens, restored theaters, breweries, bookstores, and art galleries.

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore: Go to the Upper Peninsula. Stay along the southern shore of Lake Superior. See formations that were carved by glaciers. Plan to go kayaking, hike to waterfalls, find beaches with real waves, and eat straight-from-the-lake whitefish.

Algoma: Go to Wisconsin. Stay on the Door Peninsula. Visit the oldest winery in the state. Take a tour to see their historic building, underground tunnel, three-tiered outside terrace, and 30 varietals of grape and fruit wines.

Grand Marais: Go to Minnesota. Stay in the Arrowhead Region. Sleep in a suite with an electric fireplace and a view of the lake. Focus on hiking, art, and food along the shore of Lake Superior.