Fly in not over: Skip the coasts for these Midwest getaways that deliver big

From the splendors of rivers and lakes to loop-de-loop coasters, the midwest has a lot to offer for families with young kids.Plus, your wallet will love middle America, too.

Ahead, five midwest locales where summer shines. Shed your city snobbery and enjoy the down-home fun of “tanking” along the Niobrara National Scenic River, an-only-in-Nebraska delight where families float along the river in repurposed livestock tanks.Then, recall the day’s adventures at Bolo Beer Co.

& Restaurant, where wood-fired pizzas and outdoor seating make it the perfect perch for those traveling with little ones“We’re only minutes from more than 50 fun things to do in Valentine and Cherry County, from floating the Niobrara and hiking [in Smith Falls State Park, home to Nebraska’s tallest waterfall, where a short walk across a bridge and boardwalk leads to the falls] to walking the Cowboy Trail  [the primarily crushed limestone pathway, wood-decked bridges and paved segments through Valentine are stroller-friendly] or ending the day around a campfire under the stars,” said Regina Osburn, Cherry County tourism director.“There’s a slower pace here that gives families the kind of time together that can be hard to find elsewhere,” added Osburn.

See for yourself and book your stay at Niobrara Lodge (from $189/night), a riverside perch ideal for those campfire memories.Getting there: Connect through various airports to Pierre, South Dakota, or Rapid City, South Dakota, and then drive two or three hours respectively to Valentine.You can also fly to Lincoln, Nebraska, through various airports and drive five hours to Valentine. Learn more at VisitNebraska.com. Talk about all the major food groups: In Springfield, you’ve got the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium (glowing jellyfish! Swim with the sharks!), Dickerson Park Zoo and Route 66 attractions (as The Mother Road’s birthplace, Springfield has several nostalgic stops, such as the Route 66 Car Mu...