Midwestern America is often forgotten by the majority of the world. Lacking access to oceans, states in the Midwest are deemed “fly over” states. Forgotten by tourists and overlooked by travelers, states in the Midwest are USA’s best kept secret.

1. Mix of Urban and Rural Areas

If you are feeling adventurous and a night out on the town, you can simply head into the city for the night. While there is some traffic, you won't hit the endless, frustrating hours of traffic like in New York or Los Angeles. Feel like getting some piece and quite? If you drive a couple hours outside of Chicago or St. Louis, you are bound to find a peaceful farm and some beautiful scenery. The urban-rural fringe is a great place to settle down to get the best of both worlds.

2. Lake Life

While none of the Midwestern states are particular close to any oceans, there's a plethora of lakes and rivers. From boating, tubing, water skiing, fishing, and any other water activity you can think of, a lake is not too far by in the Midwest. Plus, you don't have to worry about sharks. The Midwest is also generally free from natural disasters. There aren't any great threats posed by earthquakes or hurricanes.

3. The Sports Teams

As a St. Louis, Missouri native, I can attest to the fact the folks from the Midwest take their sports teams seriously. There is nothing better than a good city rivalry, and the central states have plenty. In both hockey, football, and baseball, sports fans from the Midwest are die hard. From the St. Louis Cardinals, Chicago Blackhawks, Green Bay Packers, or any other sports team, you are guaranteed to find some tailgaters willing to talk smack.

4. The Food

The Midwest is primarily known for its beer and cheese. What's better than that? The typical 'all-American' style of food found in the Midwest consists of red meats, and deep fried, savory meals. If you are looking for an unhealthy, filling meal, no place does it better than a home cooked meal from the Midwest.

5. The Seasons

In the Midwest, you get all four seasons, sometimes in the same week. One weekend in February it will be snowing, then that Thursday it will be 80 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny. Instead of some areas of the country that have never seen snow, the Midwestern states get their fair share of snow in the winter and humidity in the summer. Some may argue that 70 degrees and sunny year round is more their cup of tea, but in my opinion, nothing beats the experience of sledding down hills in the winter and running across hot asphalt in the summer.

While the United States' destination spots are often considered the coasts or big city's of the world, the Midwest remains America's hidden gem. From the food, weather, city life, scenery, and atmosphere, the Midwestern cities offer a variety of experiences that others are missing out on. Whether it's a night in downtown Chicago, or a weekend on Lake Michigan in Wisconsin, the Midwest has much to offer those who visit. Whether you are just passing through or deciding to settle down, you are sure to find good company in the Midwest. There is never a dull moment in these so called "fly-over" states. But fair warning, once you visit, you won't want to leave.