25 Facts About Midwest USA

Geography and Landscape

The Midwest USA is known for its diverse geography and stunning landscapes. From vast plains to bustling cities, there's something for everyone.

1. The Great Plains stretch across the Midwest, covering parts of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma. These flatlands are known for their fertile soil, making them ideal for agriculture.

2. The Great Lakes region includes Lakes Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. These lakes hold about 84% of North America's fresh surface water.

3. Mount Rushmore in South Dakota features the carved faces of four U.S. presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

4. The Mississippi River runs through the Midwest, serving as a major waterway for transportation and trade. It’s the second-longest river in North America.

5. The Ozark Mountains span across Missouri, Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Kansas. This region is known for its beautiful scenery and outdoor recreational activities.

History and Culture

The Midwest has a rich history and vibrant culture that reflects its diverse population and significant historical events.

6. The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, symbolizes the westward expansion of the United States. It stands 630 feet tall, making it the tallest man-made monument in the U.S.

7. Chicago is known as the birthplace of the skyscraper. The Home Insurance Building, constructed in 1885, is considered the world’s first skyscraper.

8. The Midwest played a crucial role in the Underground Railroad, helping enslaved African Americans escape to freedom in the North.

9. Route 66, one of the original highways in the U.S. Highway System, runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. It’s often called the "Main Street of America."

10. The Midwest is home to many Native American tribes, including the Sioux, Ojibwe, and Potawatomi. Their cultures and traditions continue to influence the region.

Economy and Industry

The Midwest is a powerhouse of industry and agriculture, contributing significantly to the U.S. economy.

11. Detroit, Michigan, is known as the "Motor City" because it’s the birthplace of the American automotive industry. Companies like Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler started here.

12. The Corn Belt spans several Midwestern states, including Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, and Ohio. This region produces a significant portion of the world’s corn supply.

13. Wisconsin is famous for its dairy production, particularly cheese. The state produces over 600 varieties of cheese, earning it the nickname "America’s Dairyland."

14. The Midwest is a leading producer of soybeans, with Illinois and Iowa being the top two states for soybean production in the U.S.

15. Chicago Mercantile Exchange is one of the largest futures and options exchanges in the world, dealing in commodities like agricultural products, energy, and metals.

Education and Innovation

The Midwest is home to some of the nation's top universities and has a strong tradition of innovation and research.

16. The University of Chicago is renowned for its research and academic programs. It has produced 94 Nobel laureates, the most of any university in the Midwest.

17. Purdue University in Indiana is known for its engineering programs and contributions to space exploration. Neil Armstrong, the first man on the moon, graduated from Purdue.

18. The Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, is one of the top hospitals in the world, known for its cutting-edge medical research and patient care.

19. Ohio State University is one of the largest universities in the U.S., with a student body of over 60,000. It’s also a leader in research and innovation.

20. The Midwest has a strong tradition of innovation in agriculture, with institutions like Iowa State University leading research in crop science and sustainable farming practices.

Unique Attractions

The Midwest offers a variety of unique attractions that draw visitors from around the world.

21. Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is the largest mall in the United States. It features over 500 stores, an indoor amusement park, and an aquarium.

22. Cedar Point in Sandusky, Ohio, is known as the "Roller Coaster Capital of the World." It has 18 roller coasters, more than any other amusement park.

23. The Field Museum in Chicago houses Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered.

24. The Indianapolis 500 is one of the most famous car races in the world. Held annually at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, it attracts hundreds of thousands of spectators.

25. The Wisconsin Dells is known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World." It has the highest concentration of indoor and outdoor waterparks in the U.S.

Midwest USA: A Land of Surprises

The Midwest USA is full of unexpected wonders. From the Great Lakes to the rolling plains, this region offers a mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. Cities like Chicago and Minneapolis boast vibrant arts scenes, while small towns provide a glimpse into America's heartland. The Midwest is also a hub for innovation, with universities and tech startups driving progress. Don't forget the culinary delights—deep-dish pizza, cheese curds, and BBQ are just the beginning. Whether you're into outdoor adventures or historical landmarks, the Midwest has something for everyone. So next time you're planning a trip, consider exploring this often-overlooked part of the country. You'll find friendly people, unique attractions, and a sense of community that's hard to beat. The Midwest USA truly is a land of surprises waiting to be discovered.