Podcast Summary: You Betcha Radio - "Hidden Midwest Gems"
Release Date: July 28, 2025
Introduction
In the episode titled "Hidden Midwest Gems," the hosts of You Betcha Radio, including Alex, Brad, Charlie, and Derek, delve into the lesser-known yet captivating attractions scattered across the Midwest. From quirky roadside attractions to serene natural landscapes, the gang shares their personal experiences, recommendations, and humorous anecdotes about exploring the heartland of America.
1. Must-Visit Tourist Spots in the Midwest
The conversation kicks off with Alex sharing his enthusiasm for discovering Midwest hotspots during his biannual travels. He mentions having visited Holiday Culver's, highlighting it as a noteworthy stop.
Alex [00:00]: "I travel to the Midwest a couple times a year and was looking for spots that I have to check out. So far, I've checked off Holiday Culver's."
Brad enthusiastically endorses the iconic Wall Drug in Rapid City, suggesting it as a must-see alongside the famed Sturgis and Deadwood tours.
Brad [00:19]: "You got to check out Wall Drug... Wall Drug, Rapid City, Sturgis, Deadwood tour. Pretty good. Kind of a sick tour."
Derek adds to the list by mentioning other attractions along the stretch, such as the Reptile Gardens and Mystery Caves, albeit referring to them as typical tourist traps.
Derek [00:31]: "There's a ton of tourist trap things on that stretch. Like, you got the reptile gardens, the mystery caves for whatever."
The hosts reflect nostalgically on their childhood visits, with Brad recalling his childhood trips to Wall Drug.
2. Unique Landmarks and Natural Wonders
The discussion transitions to various natural landmarks and unique attractions in the Midwest. Charlie recommends a visit to Devil's Lake, emphasizing its allure for fishing enthusiasts.
Charlie [04:04]: "If you like fish and I mean devil, you make a trip to Devil's Lake. You'll never. You'll never regret that."
Alex expands on the fishing spots by describing Stump Lake, a feeder of Devil's Lake, where submerged homes create an eerie yet fascinating underwater landscape.
Alex [04:09]: "Actually a really cool thing. Stump Lake which is feeds off of Devil's Lake. It flooded and you can fish over. It's super clear. You can just see fully submerged homes underneath you as you fish."
Brad shifts the focus to Wisconsin Dells, contrasting it with his preference for the North Shore of Lake Superior and Duluth, highlighting the picturesque lighthouses and vibrant party scene at the Lake of the Ozarks, dubbed the "Vegas of the Midwest."
Brad [01:36]: "Wisconsin Dells. In reality, I'd go to the north shore of Lake Superior, Duluth and up... Lake of the Ozarks, the Vegas of the Midwest."
3. Cultural and Historical Points of Interest
The hosts explore culturally significant locations, with Charlie urging listeners to visit Lincoln, Nebraska, and attend a local college football game.
Charlie [01:57]: "You gotta go to Lincoln, Nebraska. It's a top 10 city in the United States. Just there's... Nothing."
Brad [02:13]: "I feel like going to a college football game across the board is pretty fun."
Brad further recommends exploring Big Ten football venues and visiting interpretive centers in North Dakota, such as the one in Fargo.
Brad [02:22]: "Big Ten is kind of sick... North Dakota interpretive centers as well."
Derek introduces Rugby, the geographical center of North Dakota, mentioning the unique monument located near an Anytime Fitness and a Mexican restaurant.
Derek [03:42]: "What's the name of that town on 200 nor in north north Dakota that's like the geographical center. Rugby... they have a monument in a parking lot next to an anytime fitness in a Mexican restaurant."
4. Local Legends and Anecdotes
The conversation takes a humorous turn as the hosts share intriguing stories and local legends. Charlie recounts an incident involving his friend and an altercation outside a local establishment named Lotta.
Charlie [05:44]: "A lot of what... My buddy almost got. He, like, tried to pick a fight with some guy outside a lot of."
Brad humorously speculates about underwater treasures, suggesting the possibility of finding safes with valuables submerged in Devil's Lake.
Brad [04:46]: "Maybe there's some safes down there. [Laughs]"
The hosts also joke about a purported strip club underwater in Devil's Lake, blending satire with fascination for the area's submerged secrets.
Brad [05:14]: "I think there's a strip club in Devil's Lake, too. Right?"
Charlie [05:17]: "Well, the one got shut down."
5. Outdoor Activities and Recreation
Wrapping up their exploration of Midwest offerings, Brad recommends golfing in the Brainerd area, praising its quality and appeal.
Brad [05:43]: "Golfing in the Brainerd area. It's good golf."
Additionally, the hosts touch upon various recreational activities, including scuba diving certifications in Fargo and the potential for discovering hidden gems beneath the water's surface.
Conclusion and Call to Action
As the episode nears its end, Brad encourages listeners to support the podcast through their Patreon, highlighting exclusive content available to subscribers.
Brad [05:56]: "Guys, if you want more, you bet your radio. You gotta check out our Patreon... we have hundreds of hours of other episodes on there that you can't get unless you're signed up."
Final Thoughts
"Hidden Midwest Gems" offers a blend of travel tips, personal stories, and lighthearted banter, painting a vivid picture of the Midwest beyond its well-trodden paths. Whether you're a Midwest native or an adventurous traveler, this episode serves as an engaging guide to uncovering the region's unique attractions and cultural treasures.