The Upper Midwest is the friendly, community-driven heart of American gaming. Spanning Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri and the plains states, this region trades big-city glitz for something arguably better: warm, well-run, gamer-first conventions where the emphasis is squarely on sitting down and playing. If you value substance over spectacle, you'll love the scene here.
The Twin Cities: A Gaming Stronghold
Minnesota's Minneapolis–St. Paul metro is one of the most convention-rich areas in the country. The Twin Cities host a beloved lineup of events, from a large science-fiction-and-gaming convention famous for its 24-hour programming to dedicated tabletop weekenders that pack the calendar with board games, RPGs and miniatures. The local community is deep, organised and welcoming, which makes the Twin Cities a genuine destination for gamers across the plains and beyond.
Kansas City and Missouri
Missouri anchors the region's southern half. Kansas City straddles the Missouri–Kansas line and hosts warm, community-run gaming conventions with strong RPG and open-gaming traditions, while St. Louis contributes one of the longest-running science-fiction-and-gaming conventions in the country — a venerable event with a devoted multi-generational following. Together they give the region deep roots and real staying power.
The Plains States
Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas and the Dakotas round out the Upper Midwest with a spread of grassroots conventions. Omaha and Des Moines host growing pop-culture-and-gaming shows, university towns sustain lively club scenes, and even the sparsely populated Dakotas keep the hobby alive through dedicated regional events. These are the kinds of cons where organisers know the regulars by name and newcomers are welcomed like old friends. The region's affordability and central location make it a favourite for gamers who want maximum table time without the crowds and costs of the coasts — it's a scene built on hospitality, and it shows.
Plan Your Upper Midwest Convention
Winters here are formidable, so many marquee events land in summer and early autumn — plan around the weather and book early for the most popular shows. The region's central location makes it an easy drive from much of the country. Dates and venues shift each year, so confirm on the official website before you travel. BoardGameGeek and RPG.net are handy for checking schedules and reviews. Explore more from the USA hub, compare the neighbouring Great Lakes, and submit a con we might have missed.