The Midwest's Best Indoor Vacations for Winter

In the Midwest we have a few too-short months of warm weather before the icy rain, snow and cold temperatures set in. Even if you make the best of the good weather while it's here, the frigid winters can lead to a nasty case of cabin fever. But never fear; whether you're a quiet couple or a busy family with kids, the Midwest offers plenty of great indoor getaways to help you shake those winter blues.

Great Wolf Lodge - Sandusky, OH

This indoor water wonderland is well-known in the Midwest as a great spot for families year-round, but particularly in the colder months. Though there is an enormous outdoor pool, the big fun is inside. Vacationers will enjoy five indoor pools, the Caribou Creek Lazy River, the Big Foot Pass aquatic agility course and the four-story Fort Mackenzie treehouse-themed water fort. There's plenty to away from the water park during your indoor vacation at Great Wolf Lodge, too. Kids (and adults) will love the Northern Lights Arcade, and younger children can enjoy a nightly storytime and airbrushed temporary tattoos. When it comes to accommodations, Great Wolf has a suite for every size group. The family suites are huge, and many of them include special "den" or "log cabin" sleeping areas to give kids a space of their own.

Caribbean Cove Indoor Water Park - Indianapolis, IN

Located at the heart of Central Indiana, Caribbean Cove is part of the Holiday Inn Select North hotel on Indianapolis' north side. This indoor water park has plenty of stuff for the little ones, and fun for grown-ups, too! While children float on the lazy river or play watersports in one of the pools, adults can lounge in one of two luxurious whirlpools. The game arcade and recreation area also provide extra fun for your Midwest indoor vacation. The rec area is located in the main atrium of the hotel, and features a separate pool, food court, big screen television and pool tables.

Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn - Frankenmuth, MI

The Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn is fun in every sense of the word! This German-themed Michigan resort provides German cuisine, plenty of shopping with more than 40 shops and boutiques, an indoor water park, horse-drawn carriage rides, an arcade, indoor miniature golf and more. The on-site restaurant is famous for its family-style chicken dinners and authentic German fare, as well as its extensive selection of German beers. There are five pools in the water park, including a 21 and over pool for adults to relax sans kids. There are also three whirlpools for more grown-up relaxation.

These three Midwest hotspots are great for indoor vacations all winter long. So grab the kids, bundle them up for the ride and hit the road this weekend for some winter fun your whole family will remember!