Best Midwest US Travel Guides of 2025

God, Human, Animal, Machine: Technology, Metaphor, and the Search for Meaning by Meghan O’Gieblyn is a philosophical and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human in the age of artificial intelligence. The author draws from her personal experience as a former religious believer to navigate questions of faith, identity, knowledge, and the nature of life itself. The book is a refreshing and original synthesis of ideas that challenges readers to rethink their understanding of existence. Overall, it is a compelling read that offers a unique perspective on the intersection of technology, humanity, and religion.

The Birds of Michigan Field Guide is an essential tool for bird watchers in the state. With 118 species of Michigan birds organized by color, it's easy to identify the birds you see in the wild. The book includes naturalist tidbits and facts, professional photos, and even a compare feature to help you decide between look-alikes. The new edition includes updated photographs and range maps, revised information, and more expert insights from the author. Overall, this guide is a must-have for anyone interested in birding in Michigan.

The "Birds of Wisconsin Field Guide" by Stan Tekiela is an essential tool for birders in the state. The guide makes bird identification easy with its simple color guide and compare feature, helping birders determine the exact species they are observing. The book features 121 species of Wisconsin birds, with crisp, stunning full-page images and naturalist tidbits and facts from the author. This new edition includes updated photographs and range maps, revised information, and expert insights. Overall, this guide is a must-have for any birder in Wisconsin looking to identify and learn more about the birds in their area.

The Birds of Ohio Field Guide is a must-have for bird enthusiasts in the region. With 124 species of Ohio birds organized by color, this guide makes bird identification simple and informative. The book features crisp, stunning full-page images, naturalist tidbits and facts, and even a "compare feature" to help distinguish between look-alikes. The updated edition includes more species, revised information, and range maps. Author Stan Tekiela, a naturalist, wildlife photographer, and writer, has authored over 190 educational books. His expertise and passion for wildlife shines through in this comprehensive guide.

Midwest Foraging is a comprehensive guide for both beginners and advanced foragers. The book features clear, colorful photographs and identification tips for 115 wild plants found in the Midwest region of the United States. Lisa Rose, the author, provides guidance on how to safely and ethically harvest these plants, as well as suggestions for eating and preserving them. The seasonal planner is a handy tool for identifying which plants are available during each season. Overall, Midwest Foraging is a must-have for anyone interested in foraging in the Midwest region.

This comprehensive guide, Midwest Medicinal Plants, is an accessible and full-color book that provides plant profiles, step-by-step instructions for essential herbal remedies, and seasonal foraging tips. The author, Lisa Rose, is a trusted guide to finding, identifying, harvesting, and using 109 of the region's most powerful wild plants. The guide is a must-have for foragers, naturalists, and herbalists in the Midwest region. The book's clear, color photographs, identification tips, medicinal uses, and herbal preparations make it thorough, comprehensive, and safe. For those starting out or looking to deepen their herbal knowledge, this book is an essential companion for finding and using the most important wild medicinal plants.

Mushrooms of the Upper Midwest: A Simple Guide to Common Mushrooms (Mushroom Guides) is a region-specific field guide to help identify mushrooms by their visual characteristics. The book is written by foraging experts Teresa Marrone and Kathy Yerich, providing accessible information for beginners and experienced mushroom seekers. The book features nearly 400 species of common wild mushrooms found in the Midwestern states of Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. The innovative, user-friendly format pairs hundreds of full-color photographs with easy-to-understand text, making it an excellent tool for mushroom enthusiasts. The book also includes sections on top edibles and top toxics, which are helpful for identifying edible wild mushrooms. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for anyone interested in mushrooming in the Upper Midwest region.

The Birds of Indiana Field Guide is a must-have for bird enthusiasts in Indiana. The book features 118 species of Indiana birds organized by color, making it easy to identify birds in the area. The guide also includes naturalist tidbits and facts, crisp, stunning full-page images, and even more of Stan Tekiela’s expert insights. The updated edition has more species, updated photographs and range maps, and revised information. Overall, this guide is an excellent resource for bird-watchers of all levels.

The Colorado Bucket List Adventure Guide is a comprehensive travel guide for anyone looking to explore the beautiful state of Colorado in the United States. With over 100 must-see destinations, readers can easily find their way to each location with driving instructions and GPS coordinates included for each adventure. The guide also provides information on the best time to visit, weather conditions, and average expenses. The unique facts about each destination make this book a must-have for anyone planning a trip to Colorado. Overall, this book is an excellent resource for adventurous spirits looking to explore the Centennial State's immersive beauty.

The book "Lost In Michigan: History and Travel Stories from an Endless Road Trip" is a collection of over 50 fascinating stories and locations throughout Michigan. Based on the popular Lost In Michigan website, the book is perfect for both long-time Michiganders and newcomers to the state. The stories are well-researched and accompanied by beautiful pictures, making it an enjoyable read. It's a great guide for anyone planning a road trip in Michigan. Overall, the book is a must-read for those who love history, travel, and adventure.