17 Fun Facts About the Midwest: Discover the Region’s Hidden Gems
The Midwest region of the United States is known for its vast farmlands, friendly people, and unique culture. However, there is much more to this region than meets the eye. From quirky attractions to interesting historical facts, the Midwest has a lot to offer. In this article, readers will discover 17 fun facts about the Midwest that they may not have known before.
As readers delve into this article, they will learn about the Midwest’s diverse geography, fascinating history, and vibrant culture. Whether readers are from the Midwest or simply curious about this region, they are sure to find something interesting in this collection of fun facts. From the Great Lakes to the Ozark Mountains, from the Gateway Arch to the Mall of America, the Midwest is full of surprises. So sit back, relax, and prepare to learn something new about this unique and exciting region of the United States.
1) The Midwest is known as America’s Breadbasket
The Midwest is often referred to as the “breadbasket” of America due to its vast agricultural production. This region is responsible for producing a significant portion of the country’s wheat, corn, soybeans, and other crops. The fertile soils and ideal climate conditions make it an ideal location for farming.
The agricultural industry has been an essential part of the Midwest’s economy for decades, and it continues to thrive today. The region’s farmers use advanced technology and sustainable practices to ensure that they can meet the growing demand for food while preserving the land for future generations.
Overall, the Midwest’s reputation as America’s breadbasket is well-deserved, and it remains a vital part of the country’s agricultural industry.
2) Chicago is the largest city in the Midwest
Chicago is the most populous city in the Midwest and the third-largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people. It is located in the state of Illinois and is known for its iconic skyline, beautiful lakefront, and rich history.
Chicago is a major transportation hub and a global center for commerce, finance, technology, and culture. It is home to numerous world-class museums, art galleries, theaters, and music venues, as well as several professional sports teams.
The city is also famous for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in Chicago, including boating, biking, and walking along the lakefront, as well as exploring the city’s many parks and green spaces.
3) The Great Lakes contain 84% of North America’s fresh water
The Great Lakes, which are located in the Midwest region of the United States, are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world. They contain a staggering 84% of North America’s fresh water and approximately 21% of the world’s supply. The five Great Lakes are Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario.
The Great Lakes are not only a major source of fresh water, but they also play an important role in the economy and ecology of the region. They provide drinking water to millions of people, support a thriving fishing industry, and are a popular destination for recreational activities such as boating, swimming, and camping.
Despite their importance, the Great Lakes face a number of challenges, including pollution, invasive species, and climate change. Efforts are underway to address these issues and protect this valuable resource for future generations.
4) The Midwest is home to the Mall of America
The Mall of America is located in Bloomington, Minnesota, and is the largest mall in the United States. It covers over 5.6 million square feet and features over 500 stores, including high-end retailers and specialty shops. The mall also has an indoor amusement park, aquarium, and miniature golf course, making it a popular destination for families.
The Mall of America attracts over 40 million visitors annually and has become a major tourist attraction in the Midwest. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, including “Mighty Ducks” and “Transformers: Age of Extinction.” With its wide range of shopping and entertainment options, the Mall of America is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the Midwest.
5) The Gateway Arch in St. Louis is the tallest man-made monument in the U.S.
The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri, is an iconic monument that stands at 630 feet tall. It was built to commemorate the westward expansion of the United States and is the tallest man-made monument in the country. The arch was designed by architect Eero Saarinen and was completed in 1965.
Visitors can take a tram ride to the top of the arch for stunning views of St. Louis and the surrounding area. The arch is also home to the Museum of Westward Expansion, which explores the history of the American West. The Gateway Arch is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the Midwest.
6) Wisconsin produces more cheese than any other state
Wisconsin is known as the dairy capital of the United States, and for good reason. The state produces more cheese than any other state in the country. In fact, Wisconsin produces over 600 different varieties, types, and styles of cheese. The state’s cheese industry is worth over $45 billion, and it employs over 150,000 people.
Wisconsin’s cheese-making history dates back to the 1830s when Swiss immigrants first settled in the state. Today, Wisconsin is home to over 1,200 cheese factories, producing everything from cheddar to gouda to blue cheese. The state’s cheese is so renowned that it even has its own Cheesehead hat, a popular item worn by Green Bay Packers fans.
7) The Midwest is the birthplace of the ice cream sundae
The ice cream sundae was invented in the Midwest in the late 19th century. The exact origin of the sundae is uncertain, but it is believed to have been created in either Wisconsin or Illinois. The original sundae consisted of vanilla ice cream topped with syrup and whipped cream, and was served on Sundays as a way to get around Blue Laws that prohibited the sale of ice cream sodas on that day.
Today, the ice cream sundae is a popular dessert all over the world, and can be found in many different variations. However, the Midwest remains proud of its role in creating this classic treat. Many Midwestern cities even have their own unique spin on the sundae, such as the “Hot Fudge Sundae” in St. Louis and the “Turtle Sundae” in Wisconsin.
8) Detroit is known as the Motor City
Detroit, Michigan is famously known as the Motor City due to its long history of automobile production. In the early 20th century, Detroit became the center of the American automobile industry with companies such as Ford, General Motors, and Chrysler establishing their headquarters there. The city’s nickname was cemented during World War II when Detroit’s factories shifted their production to support the war effort, producing tanks, planes, and other military vehicles.
Today, Detroit remains an important hub for the automotive industry, with many major car companies still having a presence in the city. Visitors can explore the city’s automotive history at the Henry Ford Museum, which features exhibits on the evolution of the automobile and the impact of the industry on American society.
9) The First McDonald’s Restaurant Opened in Illinois
In 1955, the first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Des Plaines, Illinois. The restaurant was designed to cater to the growing demand for fast food in America. The McDonald brothers, Richard and Maurice, started the restaurant as a small drive-in, but it quickly became popular and expanded to other locations.
The restaurant’s success was largely due to its innovative approach to fast food. The McDonald brothers developed a system that allowed them to serve food quickly and efficiently, which helped them keep prices low and attract more customers.
Today, McDonald’s is one of the largest fast-food chains in the world, with thousands of locations in more than 100 countries. Despite its global reach, the company still has its roots in the Midwest, where it all began.
10) The Midwest hosts the world’s largest ball of twine
The world’s largest ball of twine is located in Cawker City, Kansas, a small town in the Midwest. The ball of twine was started in 1953 by a local farmer, Frank Stoeber, who began wrapping twine from his farm around a ball. The ball grew in size over the years as more and more people added to it. Today, the ball of twine weighs over 20,000 pounds and has a circumference of over 40 feet. It has become a popular tourist attraction, with visitors from all over the world coming to see the giant ball of twine.
11) Mount Rushmore is located in South Dakota
Mount Rushmore is a well-known landmark located in the Black Hills region of South Dakota. The sculpture features the faces of four American presidents: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln. The idea for the monument was conceived by South Dakota historian Doane Robinson, who wanted to attract more tourists to the state.
The sculpture was carved by Gutzon Borglum and his son Lincoln Borglum over a period of 14 years, from 1927 to 1941. The faces of the presidents are each about 60 feet tall, and the entire monument stands at a height of 563 feet above sea level. Mount Rushmore attracts more than 2 million visitors each year, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Midwest.
12) The Midwest has its own time zone, Central Time
The Midwest region of the United States is unique in that it has its own time zone, known as Central Time. This time zone covers a large portion of the Midwest, including states such as Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
Central Time is one hour behind Eastern Time and two hours ahead of Pacific Time. This time zone is used by millions of people in the Midwest for their daily lives, including work schedules, school schedules, and more.
Having its own time zone sets the Midwest apart from other regions of the United States and adds to the unique culture and identity of the region.
13) The Ohio River is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River
The Ohio River is a significant tributary of the Mississippi River, flowing for 981 miles through six states. It starts in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and flows into the Mississippi River at Cairo, Illinois. The Ohio River is the largest tributary of the Mississippi River in terms of volume, with an average discharge of 281,000 cubic feet per second.
The Ohio River has played a vital role in the development of the Midwest region, providing transportation and commerce opportunities for centuries. It was a major transportation route for steamboats in the 19th century, and it continues to be an important waterway for commercial and recreational use today. The Ohio River also has a rich history, with significant events such as the Battle of Fort Henry and the Lewis and Clark Expedition taking place along its banks.
14) The Midwest is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is located in Cleveland, Ohio, which is in the Midwest region of the United States. The museum opened in 1995 and is dedicated to preserving the history of rock and roll music. The building itself is an architectural marvel, designed by renowned architect I.M. Pei.
Inside, visitors can explore exhibits that showcase the evolution of rock and roll, from its roots in blues and jazz to its current state. The museum also features a vast collection of artifacts, including instruments, costumes, and handwritten lyrics from some of the most iconic musicians in history.
The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame is a must-visit destination for music lovers and anyone interested in the cultural impact of rock and roll.
15) Iowa is the leading producer of corn in the U.S.
Iowa is a state located in the Midwest region of the United States. It is known for its vast farmlands and agricultural production. One of the most notable crops grown in Iowa is corn. In fact, Iowa is the leading producer of corn in the United States.
The state’s favorable climate and rich soil make it an ideal location for corn production. Iowa’s farmers use modern farming techniques and equipment to produce high-quality corn. The crop is used for a variety of purposes, including animal feed, ethanol production, and food products.
Corn is an important part of Iowa’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue each year. The state’s commitment to sustainable farming practices ensures that Iowa will continue to be a major player in the corn industry for years to come.
16) The Midwest experiences all four seasons distinctly
The Midwest region of the United States is known for experiencing all four seasons distinctly. During the winter months, temperatures can drop below freezing, and snowfall is common. Spring brings warmer temperatures and rain showers, leading to the blooming of flowers and trees. Summer brings hot and humid weather, perfect for outdoor activities like swimming and barbecuing. Finally, fall brings cooler temperatures and colorful foliage, making it a popular time for hiking and other outdoor activities. The Midwest’s distinct seasons make it a unique and beautiful place to visit or call home.
17) The First Skyscraper was Built in Chicago
Chicago is known for its iconic skyline, and it all started with the construction of the Home Insurance Building in 1885. This 10-story building was the first to use a steel frame, allowing for greater height and stability. It stood at 138 feet tall and was considered a marvel of engineering at the time.
The success of the Home Insurance Building led to the construction of other tall buildings in Chicago, including the famous Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower). Today, Chicago is home to some of the tallest buildings in the world, and the city continues to be a hub for innovative architecture and engineering.
Geographical Diversity
Great Lakes
The Midwest region of the United States is known for its vast geographical diversity. One of the most prominent features of the region is the Great Lakes, which include Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, and Lake Ontario. These lakes are not only a source of freshwater for the region, but they also provide recreational opportunities for residents and tourists alike. The Great Lakes region is home to numerous state parks and beaches, as well as a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles, ospreys, and loons.
Plains and Prairies
The Midwest is also characterized by its expansive plains and prairies. These flatlands stretch across much of the region and are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The tallgrass prairie, for example, is a unique ecosystem that is found in parts of the Midwest. It is home to a variety of grasses, wildflowers, and wildlife, including bison and prairie dogs. The plains and prairies of the Midwest are also important for agriculture, with many farmers growing crops such as wheat, corn, and soybeans.
Overall, the geographical diversity of the Midwest is one of its defining features. From the Great Lakes to the plains and prairies, the region offers a wide range of landscapes and ecosystems for residents and visitors to explore.
Cultural Heritage
Native American Influence
The Midwest region of the United States has a rich cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years. The Native American tribes that inhabited the area before European settlement left a lasting impact on the region. The Midwest is home to many Native American tribes, including the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Sioux.
One of the most significant contributions of Native American culture to the Midwest is the creation of the Three Sisters agricultural system. This system involves planting corn, beans, and squash together in the same field. The corn provides a structure for the beans to climb, while the beans add nitrogen to the soil, and the squash provides ground cover to prevent weeds from growing.
European Settlements
European settlement in the Midwest began in the late 1600s, with the French establishing trading posts and missions throughout the region. The Midwest was also home to many German, Irish, and Scandinavian immigrants in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
The influence of European culture can be seen in the architecture of many Midwest cities, such as Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers. The Midwest is also known for its hearty cuisine, which includes dishes like hotdish, bratwurst, and deep-dish pizza.
Overall, the cultural heritage of the Midwest is a unique blend of Native American and European traditions that has shaped the region’s history and identity.
