Smooth Sailing: Yachties Summer Guide for Things to Do in the Midwest
- The Yachties Crew
- Jun 8
- 3 min read
Ah, the Midwest in summer—when the sun sticks around past 8pm, lakes sparkle like disco balls, and small towns come alive with festivals, fireworks, and fried food on a stick. Whether you're a local cruiser or road-tripping through America's heartland, we’ve got your official Yachties-approved guide to summer fun in the land of cornfields, cover bands, and cool breezes.
Ready to set your course? Let’s sail!
🎶 1. Catch Live Music Under the Stars
From outdoor amphitheaters to local festivals, live music is everywhere in the Midwest during summer. Keep an eye out for shows at places like Summerfest (Milwaukee, WI), Ravinia (Highland Park, IL), or Knuckleheads KC (😉) where you might just catch The Yachties bringing smooth yacht rock grooves and disco vibes to the dock.
🛥️ 2. Rent a Pontoon and Host a Lake Party
No coast? No problem. Midwest lakes are prime for daytime float sessions and yacht rock playlists. Bring a cooler, your captain's hat, and a waterproof speaker—you've got yourself a floating dance floor. Try Lake of the Ozarks and you will find The Yachties bringing the party to thousands of lake visitors. Other notable lakes to try are Lake Minnetonka (MN), Table Rock Lake (MO), or Lake Geneva (WI).
🍗 3. Hit a BBQ or Rib Fest
No Midwest summer is complete without smoky ribs and saucy fingers. Check out local BBQ festivals like Naperville Ribfest (IL) or Kansas City's World-Famous American Royal BBQ (MO)—and don’t forget the wet wipes. Come party at the American Royal with The Yachties.
🎡 4. Explore State Fairs & County Carnivals
Giant corn dogs, Ferris wheels, deep-fried everything... state fairs are where nostalgia and neon collide. Don’t miss Iowa State Fair (Des Moines) or Ohio State Fair (Columbus). Bonus points if you rock a pastel blazer and aviators while riding the tilt-a-whirl.
🌇 5. Sunset Cruise or Riverboat Ride
From the Mississippi to Lake Michigan, there's something magical about cruising as the sun goes down. Book a romantic riverboat in St. Louis, a skyline boat tour in Chicago, or a jazz cruise in Cincinnati.
🕺 6. Throw a Backyard Disco Bash
No venue? No problem. Invite friends, string up lights, throw on a Yachties playlist, and turn your backyard into a glittery paradise. Lawn flamingos optional but encouraged.
🧺 7. Plan a Lakeside Picnic
Cooler packed with rosé, yacht rock on the radio, and a view of the water? That’s the Midwest summer trifecta. Try Indiana Dunes, Devil’s Lake (WI), or Lake Macatawa (MI) for scenic vibes.
🔥 8. Find a Beach Bonfire
Bring your acoustic guitar, your marshmallows, and your soft rock harmonies. Some beaches—like Silver Beach (MI) or Weko Beach (MI)—have public fire pits ready for your next singalong under the stars.
🍷 9. Sip & Stroll at a Winery
Yes, the Midwest has wine—and it’s surprisingly smooth. Wander through the vines at Door Peninsula Winery (WI), Galena Cellars (IL), or Stone Hill Winery (MO). Head to Serendipity Farm & Vine (KS) for a night under the stars with The Yachties paired with your favorite wine. It’s pure Yachtie bliss.
🚲 10. Cruise a Scenic Bike Trail
Put on your shortest shorts and channel some 80s energy with a breezy ride down the Katy Trail (MO), Lakefront Trail (Chicago), or Root River Trail (MN). Just don’t forget your shades.
🎇 11. Rock the Fireworks
The 4th of July and beyond, fireworks light up skies across the Midwest. Whether you’re on a boat in the harbor or sprawled on a blanket in a park, it’s the perfect backdrop for some patriotic slow jams.
🌴 12. See The Yachties Live!
Okay, shameless plug—but it’s true! We’re bringing smooth grooves, disco heat, and soft rock sparkle to venues across the Midwest this summer. Check out The Yachties' Events and join the party.
💬 Your Summer Starts Here
So whether you're poolside or roadside, lakeside or docked at a tiki bar—make this summer one to remember. Crank the Yacht Rock, wear something outrageous, and don’t be afraid to dance like everyone is watching.
See you on the water (or stage),
🕶️The Yachties Crew
