America’s Heartland is home to neighborhoods that offer far more than just a quick stop on a tour. Filled with walkable streets, unique architecture and a variety of experiences for visitors, these districts are where past meets present, with historic landmarks, public art and lively streets lined with unique shops, galleries and restaurants.
For group travelers, these neighborhoods are the perfect way to experience the Heartland’s wholesome charm and traditional values, rooted in community spirit and authenticity. Whether it’s the art-filled corners of an urban hub or a district buzzing with live music, the Heartland’s neighborhoods offer unforgettable experiences at every turn.
The Delmar Loop
St. Louis
Named one of the 10 Great Streets in America by the American Planning Association, St. Louis’ Delmar Loop blends the best of local culture with a lively, eclectic energy. Originally named after the streetcar loop that defined the area’s geography, the neighborhood has evolved into a cultural hotspot while retaining its historic roots. The six-block stretch is lined with unique shops, indie boutiques, restaurants and entertainment venues that make it ideal for exploring on foot.
“The Loop is a great place to experience the diversity St. Louis has to offer,” said public historian Amanda Clark, manager and guide for See STL Tours.
One of the local standout attractions is the St. Louis Walk of Fame, which honors notable locals like Miles Davis and Tina Turner.
“The Walk of Fame stars are a great way to learn about all the famous folks who have called St. Louis home, as well as learn more about the history of the area,” said Clark.
Groups can catch a live show at the Pageant, one of the best concert venues in the city, or stop by the Tivoli Theatre, a beautifully restored art-deco cinema that screens indie and classic films.
“The architecture of the Loop includes a great overview of styles from the late 1800s to today, and the restaurant scene ranges from barbecue to bao buns,” explained Clark, who added that visitors can even take photos with a larger-than-life Chuck Berry statue.
The Delmar Loop hosts self-guided walking tours, and for a more relaxed experience, the new Loop Trolley allows visitors to ride from the Loop to nearby Forest Park.
“While our program doesn’t offer a Delmar Loop tour to the public, we do offer them to any group as a private tour by request,” Clark said.
Old Market
Omaha, Nebraska
The Old Market is a living testament to the history of Omaha, Nebraska. Its cobblestone streets and 19th-century buildings offer hints of a bygone era. As Omaha’s premier arts district, the neighborhood is also the heart of the city’s contemporary arts and entertainment scene.
Visitors can start by exploring the Old Market, filled with a variety of art galleries, antique shops and restaurants that offer both local and international fare.
“With so much history in the Old Market, every building and shop is an experience in itself,” said Mattie Scheeterm, director of sales for Visit Omaha. “A top-rated stop in the Old Market is Hollywood Candy, wall-to-wall candy to satisfy classic and contemporary tastes.”
For history buffs, the Durham Museum offers an in-depth look at Omaha’s past, while the Bemis Center for Contemporary Arts provides a forward-thinking space for modern art exhibitions and performances.
“Next to the Old Market is the new urban tri-park, The RiverFront,” said Scheeterm. “The 72-acre park is one block off of the main street of the Old Market and offers beautiful green spaces, a sculpture garden, firepits, a dog park, multiple playgrounds, bocce ball courts, a three-rink skate ribbon, a performance pavilion and so much more.”
Short North Arts District
Columbus, Ohio
Columbus’ Short North Arts District, the city’s cultural heartbeat, is known for its bohemian vibe. Located just north of downtown, this neighborhood has been a driving force behind the area’s cultural renaissance.
“The Short North Arts District is an incredible, walkable neighborhood just outside the Greater Columbus Convention Center, often referred to as the ‘art and soul’ of Columbus,” said Cam Tirado, public relations specialist for Experience Columbus. “With over 100 businesses lining High Street, this neighborhood is truly one of a kind — you’ll be hard-pressed to find another place like it in the country.”
The district’s monthly Gallery Hop is a major draw, as art galleries stay open late, and the streets come alive with live music, performances and food vendors.
“The Gallery Hop is a 40-year-old tradition on the first Saturday of every month, alongside a self-guided art trail and the Columbus Museum of Art at The Pizzuti,” said Dan William, Experience Columbus’ chief sales officer.
For those interested in the culinary scene, the area is also home to award-winning restaurants, rooftop bars, lounges and live music venues that stretch the energy well into the night.
“Visitors can experience tours from Columbus Food Adventures, recently voted best food tour in the country by USA Today,” said William. “Groups can also enjoy a variety of bonding activities, from crafting personalized candles at Penn and Beech to riding the Trolley Pub or Pedal Wagon and exploring the district’s rich art scene.”
Historic Third Ward
Milwaukee
Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward perfectly showcases both the city’s industrial past and its creative present. Once a busy industrial area, the Third Ward has transformed into an arts and entertainment district, with its restored warehouses now housing galleries, shops, restaurants and offices. The neighborhood’s riverside location makes it a beautiful area to explore on foot, offering scenic views and a rich blend of old and new architecture.
The Milwaukee Public Market is the centerpiece of the Third Ward, a place where visitors can sample local foods, browse artisanal goods and experience the best of Milwaukee’s food culture. Art enthusiasts will appreciate the neighborhood’s numerous galleries, while theatergoers can catch a show at the Broadway Theatre Center, home to several of the city’s premier performing arts groups.
Festivals are a staple of the Third Ward, with the annual Third Ward Art Festival and Summerfest — the world’s largest music festival — drawing visitors from far and wide.
The North Loop
Minneapolis
Often referred to as the Warehouse District, the North Loop in Minneapolis was once an industrial hub filled with warehouses. Over the past few years, it has undergone a dramatic transformation to become a trendy, walkable area with loft apartments, stylish boutiques and some of the city’s best restaurants.
Visitors can explore the district’s historic brick buildings, which now house art galleries and performance spaces, as well as catch a game at Target Field, where the Minnesota Twins play, adding an exciting sporting edge to the area’s appeal.
“Groups often attend the games and can get special deals that include food and having the group’s name appear on the scoreboard,” said Kristen Montag, senior PR manager at Meet Minneapolis. “Summer concert series and other public events are available at the field, and groups can enjoy a ballpark tour as well.”
The James I. Rice Parkway runs along the Mississippi River and offers visitors stunning views and paths to stroll or bike, while the nearby Mill City Museum offers a peek into Minneapolis’ industrial past.
Culinary enthusiasts will love the North Loop’s restaurant scene, where farm-to-table dining meets global cuisine.
“The breweries and food halls probably rank up there for groups as well,” said Montag. “Microbreweries like Modist, Fulton and Inbound are all popular spots for a brew, and Graze Provisions and North Loop Galley food halls are great for groups that want variety for the various tastes of the group.
“Cooks Bellecour is another unique option in the neighborhood, where you can take cooking classes like Cookies and Cocktails, taste-and-learn sessions with a sommelier, cooking global foods and more. The cookware shop, bakery and event space are also available.”
