best road trips from wisconsin

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11 INCREDIBLE Wisconsin Road Trips [inc. Map!]

Planning a day trip, romantic getaway, or family vacation, these Wisconsin road trips will help you explore some of the most beautiful parts of the state.

With the weather allowing, there are very few things that could beat a road trip down a scenic route. And, the State of Wisconsin is filled with amazing road trips that would charm any traveler looking to have a good time out on the open road.

The state has numerous scenic and alluring routes for exciting road trips. These routes cover varying distances from a few miles to hundreds of miles.

Along these routes, you can expect to see picturesque locations and views, hundreds of inland lakes, and colorful flora and fauna. In addition, these routes allow other opportunities to enjoy Wisconsin hospitality as you take part in indoor or outdoor activities that are exciting and rejuvenating.

In This Post

• 1 Map of the Best Road Trips in Wisconsin
• 2.1 Wisconsin Great River Road National Scenic Byway
• 2.2 Kettle Moraine Scenic Route
• 2.3 Lake Superior Byway
• 2.4 Highway 33 Scenic Drive
• 2.5 Cranberry Highway
• 2.6 Highway 42
• 2.7 Elkhart Lake
• 2.8 Door County
• 2.9 Milwaukee to the Dells
• 2.10 Rustic Roads
• 2.11 Lower Wisconsin River Road
• 2.12 *Extra* Wisconsins Frank Llyod Wright Trail
• 3 Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips in Wisconsin

  GENERAL TRAVEL INFO FOR VISITORS TO THE USA

Visa: Travelers from countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) do not require a visa when visiting the USA. However, it is recommended to check up-to-date visa entry requirements before your visit regardless of what country you are coming from to avoid issues and concerns on the date of your travel.

Currency: The official currency in Wisconsin is the U.S. dollar or American dollar ($, USD, US$).  You can withdraw currency from ATMs using your local bank card or a designated travel card. If you are visiting from another country, be sure to check any fees and charges from your bank prior to using it and carry a second source of payment/cash in case your primary card gets ‘eaten’ by an ATM.

Language: English is the primary and most widely spoken language in the USA ( although not the official one at the Federal level ! ) There are 350 other languages spoken, the main ones being Spanish, Chinese, French, and Vietnamese.

WiFi/Internet Access: Depending on your length of stay, you can either purchase a local sim card (in advance or on arrival) – to swap out with the one in your own phone to avoid roaming charges. OR, grab a pay as you go portable Wifi Devices which means you can keep your sim active and connect wirelessly. Just remember to turn off data roaming so you don’t incur any hefty charges.

Map of the Best Road Trips in Wisconsin

Route Maps of the best Wisconsin road trips featured in this list. Click the map to open directly in GoogleMaps.

Best Wisconsin Road Trips (recommended by a local!)

Wisconsin great river road national scenic byway.

This route has breathtaking views ranging from dozens of small charming towns to the majestic curves and bends of the Mississippi River . It’s truly one of the best scenic drives in America . If you are keen enough, you should be spelling the word Mississippi by the time you come to the end of the byway.

The quaint towns along this route have hundreds of attractions that include historic sites, birding sites, restaurants, galleries, and wineries. You’ll also get amenities such as shopping, dining, and lodging. And, you can make a stopover at Buena Vista Park to get a good view of the Mississippi.

Also, don’t forget to take a moment to watch the majestic birds soaring along the bluffs. And if you have the time, you can dash to the National Eagle Center for more adventure.

Kettle Moraine Scenic Route

 The Kettle Moraine Scenic Route is definitely up there with the best Wisconsin road trips. It stretches across six counties starting from Sheboygan County to Walworth County .

This road trip affords travelers a chance to see firsthand the geological history of southeast Wisconsin. The picturesque landscape owes a lot to the huge glaciers from the ice age that occupied the area for thousands of years and the beautiful trees of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.

The route was designed with a deliberate attempt to provide an easy but scenic highway route where people could even spend a day or even two visiting the best that Southern Wisconsin has to offer. That is why it passes near or around state parks and forests.

One of the best things about this route is accessibility, as you can access it easily from most major cities. In addition, you will find several great places where you can picnic, camp, swim, shop, and even lodge.

You can do the Kettle Moraine Scenic drive at any time of the year, but summer is the most ideal.

Lake Superior Byway

Did you know that quite a good number of multiple U.S. Presidents have visited this route for fishing and adventure? There is a good reason why.

There is no other road that better captures the geography, history, culture, and recreational diversity of Wisconsin. This makes it one of the best Wisconsin road trips.

By the time you complete it, you will have enjoyed awe-inspiring scenic views that include forests, sandy beaches, and the clear waters of Lake Superior .

The road also leads to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore . Further down, you will find the Gaylord Nelson Wilderness Area and the Red Cliff Reservation .

The Lake Superior Byway also has many restaurants that serve fresh delicacies made using local ingredients. So, take this chance to savor some Wisconsin hospitality as you enjoy weekend getaways in Wisconsin. Grab one of these amazing cabin getaway rentals along Lake Superior so you can take in the scenery the right way.

Highway 33 Scenic Drive

If you enjoy the thrill of hairpin turns, then you will be in for a treat. The area along Wildcat Mountain State Park has a few of these turns. There is also a lot to savor in terms of scenery.

If you have a few minutes to spare, you can also choose to go hiking or canoeing in Wonewoc . Or for those who love outdoor adventures, be sure to add the Ice Age Trail and Devils Lake to the start of your trip.

This route is 93 miles long, and it starts at Baraboo through Coulee Country and to La Crosse. You can do this road trip at any time of the year.

Cranberry Highway

Isn’t this an interesting name for a road trip? It is aptly named the Cranberry Highway because it cuts through expansive cranberry beds for almost 50 miles.

The route begins at Wisconsin Rapids and goes all the way to Warren . It is one of the best Wisconsin road trips that will excite not just fruit lovers but also anyone who is looking for a picturesque road drive.

It is also ideal for family getaways on Thanksgiving when the cranberries are in full bloom. The red berries can be seen right from the highway. Needless to say, the best time to make this trip is between late September and late October during harvest.

Other attractions along this road are wildlife and the old glacial lake in Wisconsin. You can also make some pit stops at the Wisconsin Cranberry Museum , the Sandhill Wildlife Area and get some gifts at Rubi Reds .

The Cranberry Highway is the perfect Wisconsin day trip for you and your family.

Before you get to the tip of the peninsula, you will find a winding stretch of road. This is the world-famous Wisconsin curvy road. It is about 15 miles long and is usually compared to a child’s drawing of a curvy road. There is a backdrop of stunning fall foliage color that adds to the magic of this road trip.

Not surprisingly, this is one of the most photographed places in Wisconsin. The route is very popular with travelers and can get very busy, especially on weekends and holidays.

Elkhart Lake

Most visitors come here for an afternoon or weekend of watersports like swimming, canoeing, and water-skiing . However, the main attraction is the world-famous Road America racecourse .

Started in 1955, this 4-mile track continues to draw visitors not just from Wisconsin but from other parts of the world as well. It is mostly used for amateur racing.

Road America is one of the few racecourses in the world that has remained relatively unaltered. It has many elevation changes and even has a relatively long front stretch where drivers can reach a top speed of 200 mph.

So if you are looking to have a bit of fun driving or watching other people drive, this is one of the best Wisconsin road trips for you. You may also get a chance to showcase a classic, muscle, or unique car so don’t shy off if you have one.

Door County

Within Door County is the Coastal Byway , which is one of the best Wisconsin road trips. It starts near the City of Sturgeon Bay and stretches for 66 miles to harbor town of Northport. When you get to Gills Rock, you can turn south and join Highway 42 and drive back to Sturgeon Bay.

Some of the key attractions include Lake Michigan , views of Niagara Escarpment bluffs , and the Bay of Green Bay . There are also several lighthouses and a about a dozen state and county parks .

Milwaukee to the Dells

Halfway along the drive is the city of Madison . This is a must-stop-over because of the endless opportunities it offers to explore and have fun, including farmers markets for those that like unique stalls and local products!

In case you have tagged your children along, the Madison Children’s Museum is a good place to visit. You can also visit the Henry Vilas Zoo , which is just ten minutes away from Madison. The zoo has a conservation carousel, a playground, and you will even get a chance to feed goats.

And did you know that the Dells is considered the waterpark capital globally? You can use this opportunity to find out why by exploring the dozens of waterparks in Wisconsin Dells.

If you want to enjoy all these activities, it is best to make this road trip during summer.

Rustic Roads

At the moment, there are 122 marked Rustic Roads in Wisconsin, and they cover a distance of over 740 miles traversing a whopping 61 counties.

Rustic roads may be one-way or two-way. Many also double up as bicycle or hiking paths, and so the maximum speed limit by law is 45mph.

In some areas, this may be as low as 30 mph. That is why they are recommended for leisurely driving.

Each Rustic Road is assigned a special number ranging from one to three-digit figures. The letter ‘R’ is also added before the number to distinguish the roads from State Trunk Highway numbering.

So if you are a fan of the off-road and love being surrounded by spring greens, then this is one of the best Wisconsin road trips for you and your family.

Lower Wisconsin River Road

Considered one of the best Wisconsin road trips, this route offers a perfect opportunity to see the sparkles of nature, whether you are driving on a sunny day or a starry night.

The Lower Wisconsin River is one of the main attractions of this route. It is referred to as the “ River of a Thousand Isles ” because it continuously shifts channels, varies the flows, and shapes its sandbars as it flows downward. The river also offers great opportunities for fishing, canoeing, kayaking , and bird-watching .

Along the way, you will see golden bluffs that stand out from emerald hills , creating a picturesque view of the landscape. And even though there are settlements that have sprouted along this route, the raw beauty of nature remains unscathed.

*Extra* Wisconsins Frank Llyod Wright Trail

Driving across 9 counties in Southern Wisconsin, road-trippers can embark on a self-guided tour that includes 9 stunning buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. 

Starting in Kenosha and driving through Racine, Milwaukee, Waukesha, Jefferson, Dane, Iowa, Sauk and Richland, on this road trip route you’ll have the chance to visit the SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower, Wingspread, Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center, Wyoming Valley School and Cultural Arts Center, the AD German Warehouse and more.

Just be sure to check the opening hours of each when planning your trip!

Final Thoughts on the Best Road Trips in Wisconsin

From the great lakes to rolling hills, areas of stunning natural beauty to Amish farms celebrating a simpler time. We hope this guide to the best road trips in Wisconsin has convinced you to travel Wisconsin and explore some of the most beautiful places in WI.

And if you know of anyone else that needs a little bit of inspiration or assistance in deciding to spend some time in the Badger State, please be sure to share this post on social media: Facebook, Flipboard, Twitter or grab one of the images from below for Pinterest. And remember – sharing is charing (and we thank you in advance!)

READY FOR MORE USA TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE TRAVEL TIPS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING CITIES IN NORTH AMERICA:

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• Texas: Everything’s bigger in Texas and Dallas & Dallas Fort Worth , San Antonio and Austin are no exception!
• National Park Guide: Yellowstone National Park , Arches National Park , Yosemite National Park , Zion NP & Bryce Canyon NP
• Las Vegas: Get the Best of Sin City! Things to do, where to stay and where to eat! + Where to stay in Las Vegas (whatever your budget), Day Trips from Las Vegas, Road trips from Las Vegas & the TOP 40+ FREE Things to do in Las Vegas !
• Portland: 10 Fun Things to do in Portland Oregon + Day Trips from Portland
• Florida: Things to do in Orlando for Adults , Best Road Trips in Florida and Things to do in Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Jacksonville
• Michigan: The Best Things to do in Ann Arbor + Fun Things to do in Grand Rapids MI

Hi There! Thanks for reading our travel guide to 11 Incredible Road Trips in Wisconsin USA (Recommended by a local) I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here . And a huge Thank You for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld travel blog.

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Indianapolis, a great road trip from Milwaukee, was one of the first cities I explored when I started this website back in 2013.  Obviously, it’s famous for hosting the Indy 500 and a tour of the famous speedway is a must when you visit.  But Indy is great for more than just race cars.  Start with a look at the famous Monument Circle downtown and work your way to the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis – hands down the greatest museum for families in the country. It’s amazing!  Check out the beautiful canal walk that runs through White River State Park, or go for some Duck Pin bowling in Fountain Square.  History buffs can check out Benjamin Harrison’s house, and if you’re a foodie – Indy is loaded with great restaurants!

2. St. Louis, MO

St. Louis is a wonderful destination for families on a budget with so many fun and FREE things to do! In addition to the Gateway Arch, you can visit attractions in historic Forest Park like the St. Louis Zoo, St. Louis Art Museum, Missouri History Museum, and the St. Louis Science Center for no charge at all! Kids will love a visit to the City Museum with its iconic ferris wheel and school bus up on the roof of the building. St. Louis Union Station is full of fun experiences and depending on the time of year, grab tickets to a Cardinals game at Busch Stadium. Don’t forget to try toasted ravioli, thin crust pizza, and delicious frozen custard from Ted Drewes on Route 66!

3. Cincinatti, OH

Cincinnati is a perfect road trip if you want to catch the Brewers on the road while playing the Reds. (Mainly because their stadium is mostly empty and it’s easy to get tickets!)  But truly, Cincy has some fun things to check out.  The beautiful Cincinnati Museum Center, once a train terminal, now houses museums and special exhibits.  One of my favorite museums in the entire country is located in Cincinnati – The American Sign Museum.  Consider taking one of the many guided tours that will showcase the local beer scene, or historical spots around town.  The downtown riverfront park has recently undergone renovations and is a great place to ride a bike or take a walk.

Bill’s Advice: If you only have time to do one thing in Cincinnati, go and visit the American Sign Museum.  It’s so cool!  I included it in my first book – 100 Things To Do In America Before You Die .  You’ll thank me for the suggestion! 

4. Springfield, IL

About four hours away from Milwaukee, Springfield is a perfect weekend getaway. Rich in history, it’s best known for its ties to Abraham Lincoln. You can visit the only home he ever owned and see his final resting place. The Lincoln Presidential Museum is also a must-see! Tour the Illinois state Capitol building and take a tour of the Governor’s mansion. (Don’t make any jokes about how many of them wind up in prison – they don’t think it’s as funny as we do.)  There is also a wonderful Frank Lloyd Wright property – the Dana Thomas House in Springfield that is worth touring if you love seeing his work.

5. Madison County, IA

I’ve been visiting Winterset and Madison County for years and always enjoy each opportunity to pass through this mostly quiet, unassuming community located a short drive from Des Moines.  If you love the feel of small town U.S.A. where people are still patriotic and treat their neighbors like family – this is the place for you.  It’s a perfect trip for a romantic getaway or an extended weekend for small town shopping, and outdoor recreation.  It’s best known as the hometown of movie legend John Wayne and famous for its beautiful covered bridges that were featured in the film  The Bridges Of Madison County.   Also, be sure to check out the Iowa Quilt Museum and the newly restored movie theater on the square –  The Iowa.   If you’re looking for the best local hangout – Winterset Cidery is the place, with homegrown cider and regular events including live music.

6. Chicago, IL

Chicago may be suffering from some bad press in recent years but it’s still a really fun city with so much to see and do! I was there for a visit in the spring of 2023 and had an absolute blast! If it’s been awhile since you visited the Windy City – consider a trip to the top of the Willis Tower and experience SkyDeck for a cool look at the city. You can’t go wrong with iconic attractions like Shed Aquarium and the Field Museum. Love pizza? Take a Chicago Pizza Tour to sample various pies from around town including the famous deep dish style!

If it’s your first time visiting, consider reading my first timers guide to Chicago!

7. Marquette, MI

Marquette is a great spot to start an extended road trip to explore Michigan’s Upper Peninsula! Whether you stick close to the town or keep driving along Lake Superior down to Mackinaw Island, there are plenty of beautiful sights to behold including tons of waterfalls! The waterfall pictured above is Bond Falls – one of the estimated 300 waterfalls in the “U.P.” Exploring this region is one of the best road trips I’ve ever taken.

8. Detroit, MI

Don’t discount Detroit as a road trip destination! The motor city is still very much alive with a revitalization of its downtown and longtime favorite attractions like the Motown Museum and the nearby Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn. Located less than six hours from downtown Milwaukee, Detroit has wonderful restaurants, museums, the historic Fox Theater, and plenty of sports!

9. Parks County, IN

Parke County, Indiana is best known as the “covered bridge capitol of the world”! Located about 4.5 hours from Milwaukee, you’ll find a great relaxing destination with some much needed peace and quiet. You can grab an old fashioned map (remember those?) at the local visitors center and then set out to find as many of the historic covered bridges as you can, making it a perfect romantic getaway. Consider booking a room or campsite at Turkey Run State Park, Indiana’s most popular state park, for your home base. They offer brand new, minimalist cabins as well. The park has plenty of great hiking trails for all skill levels.

10. Madison, WI

The state capital seems like a no-brainer as it’s super close but Madison is always a fun road trip destination. The nearby college town has lots of things to do – one of my favorites being the Dane County Farmer’s Market. The longtime event wraps around the entire Capitol building. Patrons all walk in one direction to shop for fresh produce and local goods.  Of course, State Street is full of action – all seven blocks between downtown and the University of Wisconsin campus. You can find food (140 restaurants!) unique stores, and plenty of entertainment day or night.

11. Louisville, KY

Of course most people know Louisville as the place where the famous Louisville Slugger baseball bats are made, but that’s just the start!  Downtown Louisville offers a wide variety of attractions from the Muhammad Ali Center to Churchill Downs where the Kentucky Derby takes place.  For an adventure – try out the world’s only underground zip line at Louisville Mega Cavern or a cruise on the historic Belle of Louisville.  Lots of great restaurants for all tastes and cool places to stay including 21c and The Galt House Hotel.

Bill’s Advice:  Louisville is a great extended weekend trip!  If you love Kentucky Fried Chicken, pay your respects to Col. Sanders himself.  His grave site is a short drive from downtown.  Just follow the yellow line at Cave Hill Cemetery and you’ll find it.  Don’t be surprised if you see a bucket of chicken sitting on the tombstone.  No, seriously. 

12. Quad Cities Region

Talk about getting your bang for the buck – how often do you get four destinations packed into a single stop? The Quad Cities is made up of five towns that share the Illinois-Iowa border.  (Yes, “quad” makes no sense as there are five and not four – but believe me, they know.)  It’s best known as the world headquarters for John Deere, and visitors can tour multiple historical spots that tell the story of the famous company.  Take a quick side trip up to LeClaire on the Iowa side to see where the show American Pickers began.

13. Fort Wayne, IN

Fort Wayne is probably not a spot that’s been on your radar but Indiana’s second largest city has a lot going on. Its minor league baseball stadium is award winning and its local library is known as the best genealogy research center in the country. The Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo is one of the best designed kid-friendly zoos around and a brand new, beautiful  riverfront project  has injected new energy into the town.  You’ll also find lots of opportunity for outdoor recreation.

Bill’s Advice:  For something unique, visit the headquarters for Sweetwater – one of the largest music and instrument stores in the world. Vera Bradley is also headquartered in Fort Wayne and has events during the year.  

14. Indiana Dunes National Park

Yes, Milwaukee has beaches along Lake Michigan – but I thought we wanted to road trip?! Often underrated are the northern beaches of the midwest which are often less crowded, cleaner, and have sunsets that are just as beautiful. You can check out:  Indiana Dunes  for info on places to stay and things to do in the region. You can sit back and relax, rent a paddle board or kayak and watch your kids burn off energy running up and down the impressive sand dunes.

15. Door County, WI

Door County is always a reliable road trip destination with beautiful scenery along with great places to eat and outdoor recreation. Grab some pancakes at Al Johnson’s Swedish restaurant while you gawk at the goats walking on the roof; enjoy a sunset cruise; antique shopping; swim or go for a hike at one of the area’s many parks! There’s so much to do!

16. Holland, MI

If you thought Holland was in Europe – you are correct!  But, America’s Holland is located in Michigan and it’s a cool town worth exploring.  Pick up a pair of wooden shoes (pictured above) and walk along the streets of downtown for great shopping and lots of dining options. (Fun fact: the streets of downtown Holland are heated so they don’t have to plow snow in the winter.  Genius!)  Holland is also home to the only authentic Dutch wind mill that is still operational in the U.S.  If tulips are your thing – visit during the annual  festival  each spring.  The Holland Bowl Mill is also very cool – ask them for a quick tour of the production and find a one of a kind wooden bowl to take home!

Bill’s Advice:  1) You can save time by taking the ferry across Lake Michigan. 2) I eat a lot of pizza when I’m on the road and Holland has one of the best pizza places I’ve ever been to.  It’s called  Fricano’s Pizza  and sometimes, I have dreams about it.

17. Dayton, OH

Dayton is best known as the place that gave birth to modern aviation. The Wright Brothers called Dayton home and the city is full of historic places that will give you a front row seat to the history of the “flying machine” which is how the first airplane was trademarked. One of the original Wright Brothers bicycle shops is still in tact, and you can see an original Wright Flyer at the Carillon Historical Park. Take a ride over to Huffman Prairie Field where the brothers tested out there invention or tour the mansion where they lived. Best of all – Dayton is home to the Museum of The United States Air Force – an unbelievable airplane museum that consists of four different hangars and impossible to see in a single day. See rare military aircraft and even go on board a retired Air Force One plane. And it’s free!

18. Wisconsin Dells

It’s probably a place you’ve been to as a kid but the Wisconsin Dells are still a solid choice for a fun family getaway. With hundreds of waterslides and quirky attractions, it’s not only a fun stop but an easy road trip from Milwaukee.

19. Traverse City, MI

This one requires taking the ferry across Lake Michigan but it’s worth it! Best visited in late summer or early fall, you’ll enjoy your share of cherries and everything you can imagine with a cherry theme! Sleeping Bear Dunes is a must when you visit as well as a day downtown to explore over 150 shops and restaurants!

20. Galena, IL

Galena is best known as a historic town with an abundance of beautifully preserved 19th-Century buildings. It’s also known for its ties to President U.S. Grant who owned a home there which is open for tours. Horseshoe Mound is a popular spot for viewing three different states at once. Wineries, antique shopping, boutique hotels – it’s a perfect weekend getaway from Milwaukee.

Things To See

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BILL ON THE ROAD | ALL RIGHTS RESERVED 2024

Postcard Narrative

The Proof is in the Postcard

7 Fun and Affordable Midwest Road Trips from Wisconsin

Roll down your windows, feel the breeze and prepare for an adventure that’s as vast and varied as the Midwest sky. Welcome to our guide on the best Midwest road trips for families, where every turn uncovers a new surprise – be it a agricultural gem in Wisconsin, a construction loving kids’ dream in Illinois, a wonder filled aquarium in Iowa, a cascading waterfall in Minnesota, a sandy dune in Michigan, a bustling speedway in Indiana, or a majestic arch in Missouri. 

As we journey through these seven states, we’ll discover that the Midwest is not just “fly-over” country. No, my friends, it’s drive-through country! Buckle up, grab your snacks, and let’s hit the road. 

Prepare to experience the charm, beauty, and hidden gems of this remarkable region with our tried and true list of family-friendly Midwest road trips.

Sheboygan to Mackinac Island 

From Sheboygan’s lakeside charm to the timeless allure of Mackinac Island and beyond, this Midwest Road Trip itinerary stitches together several of Wisconsin and Michigan’s top destinations

Wisconsin Stops

The first stop will be in Sheboygan, home to the Bookworm Gardens , a magical, literature-inspired botanical garden where your children’s favorite stories come alive among lush flowers and whimsical sculptures.

As you journey onward, visit Titletown in Green Bay , where kids can scramble up Ariens Hill, conquer three playscapes, play ball on a full size football field and parents can relax with a local brew in hand.

Upper Michigan Stops

As the route carries you into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, you’ll pass through Escanaba , a quaint harbor town where fresh whitefish is always on the menu. Stop into town for Swedish Pancakes at the Swedish Pantry and walk across the street to pickup some fresh homemade fudge.

Not far from here lies Kitch-iti-kipi , Michigan’s largest natural freshwater spring, where crystal clear waters offer a window into an underwater world teeming with trout. It is suitably nicknamed “mirror of heaven” and well worth the 30 minute detour it adds to your drive time. There is a small viewing raft you can ride to the center of the spring to gaze into the depths of the spring below. (Free.)

As you continue your journey, you’ll be in awe of the stunning beauty of Pictured Rocks National Seashore and the breathtaking power of Tahquamenon Waterfall.

And finally, you’ll arrive at the highlight of the trip – the incredible Mackinac Island . Imagine stepping back in time as horse-drawn carriages clatter along cobblestone streets, and the aroma of world-famous fudge wafts through the air. Reaching the island requires a ferry ride from Mackinac City.

Insider travel tip: If you are prepared to splurge, the Grand Hotel is the crown jewel of the island. It dons the world’s largest front porch.

The adventure doesn’t have to end there. This is a choose your own adventure decision point as it is about the same amount of travel time to turn around and return the same way. Or we’ll continue south and take a ferry across to Manitowoc.

Mainland Michigan Stops

If you chose the latter, the next stop is Petoskey State Park , where the kids can scour the shores for Michigan’s state stone, the Petoskey. My kids think they look like dinosaur eggs.

Then, it’s on to Sleeping Bear Dunes for a heart-pumping climb and a stunning view over Lake Michigan.

As twilight descends, pull into the Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theater for a dose of nostalgia and a family movie under the stars.

The journey concludes with a relaxing ferry ride across Lake Michigan from the Ludington Ferry Terminal, winding down a road trip that’s sure to etch itself into your family’s core memory bank.

What are you waiting for? Pack up the car and create some memories on one of our favorite Midwest road trips!

Milwaukee to St. Louis

Embarking on a road trip from Milwaukee to St. Louis is a journey filled with diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and iconic landmarks. The distance of about 375 miles offers a unique blend of urban hustle and rural tranquility with endless educational opportunities.

The Gateway City’s vibrant food scene and family-friendly attractions made St. Louis a laid back and unforgettable family getaway. 

I have a detailed post with all of our favorite stops along this route.  Check out our suggestions on how to break up the 6 hour trip between Milwaukee and St. Louis . 

Wausau to Duluth

This Midwest road trip itinerary starts from Wausau and you’ll make your way to enchanting Duluth , experiencing the natural beauty of the region along the way.

Get ready to explore stunning attractions like Copper Falls State Park, Apostle Islands National Seashore, and Amnicon Falls State Park.

But that’s not all! Our journey doesn’t end there. We’ll also visit Gooseberry Falls State Park and Split Rock Lighthouse State Park, just outside Duluth. And let’s not forget the vibrant cities we’ll encounter, like Duluth itself. Don’t miss out on the Lake Superior Railroad Museum and Great Lakes Aquarium!

This trip is perfect for both kids and adults, promising an unforgettable adventure through the Midwest’s charming towns and breathtaking landscapes. Click here for the full route and guide.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Holland, Michigan

I grew up on the west side of Lake Michigan and didn’t experience a sunset over the Great Lake until I was in my 30s. It is something to behold, I felt as if I was on a soft sandy beach on the Gulf of Mexico.

If you love sand, sunsets, beer, and charming towns, this Midwest Road Trip is for you.

Welcome to our road trip adventure from the bustling city of Milwaukee to the charming town of Holland, Michigan. Each stop along our journey offers its unique blend of attractions that both children and adults will adore.

In Holland , enjoy the town’s rich Dutch heritage, marvel at the authentic windmill at Windmill Island Gardens and savoring a pint or two from the local breweries, while the kids enjoy root beer and pretzels.

Saugatuck is famed for its Oval Beach, one of the top 25 beaches in the world, as ranked by Condé Nast Traveler, is a haven of golden sands and crystal clear waters.

South Haven and St. Joseph , with their picturesque lighthouses and serene beaches, offer a tranquil escape, while the Southwest Michigan Wine Trail is a feast for the senses, boasting some of the region’s finest wineries. The vineyards also offer grape juice tasting for the young ones, making it a fun-filled family experience.

Finally, the Indiana Dunes , with their towering sand dunes and diverse wildlife, offer a perfect mix of education and recreation. It’s a place where children can learn about nature while running free, building sandcastles, and splashing in the water.

Central Wisconsin Gems

Central Wisconsin, with its well kept secrets of natural beauty, rich history, and family-friendly attractions, is the perfect route for an unforgettable road trip.

Start your journey in Oshkosh, where you’ll find the delightful, free Menominee Park and Zoo , a favorite among families. While in Oshkosh, consider grabbing a lunch at a drive in diner with carhops on roller-skates; Ardy and Ed’s .

Just up the road, you’ll find iconic Wisconsin breweries, like Central Waters Brewing and Steven’s Point Brewery (one of the oldest in the country).

Next, immerse yourselves in nature at Schmeeckle Reserve’s tranquil trails and marvel at the mystically quirky Rudolph Grotto Gardens . Next, visit Jurustic Park , home to a fascinating collection of ‘prehistoric’ metal sculptures. Rudolph Grotto Gardens and Jurustic are both one of a kind attractions, so unique that they’ve been featured in Atlas Obscura!

As you head south, don’t pass Osseo without tasting the legendary pies at Norske Nook !

Experience the thrill of harvest season at Wetherby Cranberry Farm , then head to Wisconsin Dells , the “ Waterpark Capital of the World “.

Continue your journey at the Ishnala Supper Club , offering mouthwatering dishes amid breathtaking views. You can expect to wait for a table so your best bet is to arrive when they open at 3:30 on weekdays. (Closed during the winter.)

Head next door to explore the serene beauty of Mirror Lake State Park and the magic of the Baraboo Circus Museum.

Go for a hike! Check out Parfrey’s Glen , Devil’s Lake , or Pewit’s Nest , each offering its own unique charm.

Don’t miss the Merrimac Ferry , Wisconsin’s only free ferry, before ending your Wisconsin Midwest road trip.

COVID and my parents’ collective health kept me close to home for a couple years which gave me the opportunity to explore my home state and discover gems I’d never expected; many of my favorites are on this route.

Milwaukee to Dubuque

A road trip that combines the charm of small-town America, the thrill of outdoor adventures, and the childhood excitement of interactive museums.

As you drive west through Wisconsin, the landscape transforms from urban sprawl to scenic countryside, with the Toy Train Barn Museum being your first stop. Featured in Atlas Obscura, this hidden gem houses a fascinating collection of miniature trains that will ignite your children’s imaginations. The best part about it is chatting with the couple who owns the museum. The man is a genius and the wife a saint.

Next, defy the laws of physics at Gravity Hill, a mysterious spot where your car will seem to roll uphill . It’s a strange phenomenon caused by optimal illusion.

Prepare to laugh with your whole family during your unusual hiking experience with goats in Galena, IL.

The Alpine Slide near Rice is a thrilling ride down a 2,050-foot track. Dubuque’s River Museum and Aquarium offers an immersive look at the Mississippi’s aquatic life.

On a rainy day, the Creative Adventure Lab in Dubuque provides the perfect indoor escape with interactive exhibits designed to spark creativity.

And for a touch of history, take a ride on the Fenelon Place Elevator , one of the world’s shortest and steepest scenic railways.

A detour to the Field of Dreams movie site is a must for any baseball fan. And when you arrive at the Quad Cities, where the Family Museum in Davenport and the John Deere Pavilion in Moline offer educational and entertaining diversions.

End your day with a meal at Twin Span Brewing , recommended for its craft beers and kid-friendly atmosphere.

The final leg of your journey takes you back to Milwaukee, with a pit stop at the Children’s Museum in Rockford .

Join me as we delve deeper into each destination , uncovering more of what makes this Midwest road trip a fantastic choice for families looking for educational and unforgettable memories.

Milwaukee to Minneapolis

Minnesota’s Twin Cities, Minneapolis and St. Paul are chock full of family friendly attractions that won’t break the bank. 

There’s much to see along the Midwest road trip route to the Twin Cities so consider breaking up your journey with one or more of these kid-approved stops packed with intrigue, energy busters, and delicious food. 

Roadside Stops:

Run out some energy at Aztalan State Park near Johnson Creek before cranking out a big chunk of the route.  While the little ones are running, big kids and adults can soak in the rich history of one of the state’s most significant archaeological sites.   

This National Historic Landmark showcases  an ancient Middle-Mississippian village that thrived between A.D. 1000 and 1300. The settlement was mysteriously abandoned sometime between 1200 and 1300 CE, leaving behind a wealth of cultural artifacts and historical intrigue. The name ‘Aztalan’ was given by early settlers who mistakenly believed the site had links to the Aztecs.

Restock your car snack supply and taste the abundant cheese and fudge samples in this fun Wisconsin shop with a giant mouse called Mousehouse Cheesehaus.

Madison, Wisconsin

Take a brief detour to find Madison Family Fun. You’ll find a handful of family-friendly activities that can be completed in less than two hours.

A quick stop at the Henry Vilas Zoo , which offers free admission, is a must-do. It’s home to hundreds of exotic species from around the globe and also includes a children’s zoo and a carousel. Spend an hour or two at the Madison Children’s Museum, a hands-on learning experience that encourages curiosity and imagination with exhibits on art, culture, and science. For outdoorsy families, a stroll through the Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers stunning visuals with a variety of beautiful themed gardens.

Lastly, you could treat the kids to a scoop of homemade ice cream at the Memorial Union Terrace , while enjoying lakeside views of Lake Mendota.

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Family fun is plentiful in Wisconsin Dells. With so many options to choose from, it’s a challenge to pick just one destination for a road trip stop. However, here are a few places that have been excellent pit stops for our family while passing through.

Go Karting – Give your adrenaline loving kid a thrill that doesn’t consume much time at all!  Stop by Adare or Big Chief Go Karts for a quick race.

Mini Golf – Play a round of themed mini golf at Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf to get the whole family some sunshine, movement, and healthy competition.  Lunch or Dinner – Choose a place with fun and unique vibes for a meal break.   We like The Grateful Shed (indoor food trucks) and Buffalo Phils (food delivered by model train with a massive Lego city).

Eau Claire, Wisconsin

As you approach Minneapolis, consider making one final pit stop in Eau Claire. Take in the Sculpture Walk , boasting a collection of over 150 sculptures and recognized as one of the largest in the nation. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to explore the riverwalk in Phoenix Park .

For an engaging indoor experience, the Eau Claire Children’s Museum or the newly renovated Public Library are excellent destinations that offer young children ample opportunities to explore and discover.

Frequently Asked Questions about Road Tripping with Kids

1. How can I ensure safety during our Midwest road trips?

Safety should always be your top priority. Make sure all car seats are installed correctly and that seat belts are worn at all times. Plan your route in advance, and consider road conditions and weather forecasts. Keep an updated first-aid kit in the car and be aware of where hospitals or clinics are along your route. Pack your insurance card and know your login so you can check for in-network urgent care clinics should the need arise.

2. What’s the best way to keep kids comfortable during long drives?

Comfort is key on Midwest road trips. Dress kids in loose, comfortable clothing. Bring along pillows for longer drives and plan regular stops to stretch legs and burn off energy.

Also, keeping the car clean and clutter-free can contribute to overall comfort. Easier said than done, I know, but I have a few tips for car organization in this post .

3. How can I maintain a peaceful atmosphere in the car?

Set expectations before you start your journey. Explain the importance of being respectful and patient. Create a playlist of everyone’s favorite songs or listen to audiobooks that the whole family can enjoy. Remember, your attitude sets the tone for the trip.

I ensure each kid that we are doing one thing each day specifically with their interests in mind.

4. How do I keep the kids entertained throughout the trip?

Creativity is your best friend here. Pack travel-friendly games, download movies or shows on tablets, or play classic car games like “I Spy” or “License Plate Game”. I have tons of my favorite road trip activities listed here.

Consider creating a travel journal where they can document their Midwest road trip.

5. Should I pack meals or plan to stop for food?

A mix of both works well. Pack plenty of healthy snacks and drinks to curb hunger between meals and pass the time. For meals, research kid-friendly restaurants along your route. Trying local cuisine can be one of the highlights of Midwest road trips.

6. Are there any recommended apps for road trips? Absolutely! Apps like Roadtrippers and Waze are great for planning your route and getting real-time traffic updates. For entertainment, consider apps like Libby (for e-books and audiobooks) or Netflix and Disney+ (download shows/movies for offline viewing).

7. How often should we take breaks?

For comfort and safety, plan to stop every 2-3 hours. Use these breaks for restroom visits, meals, and to explore attractions along the way. This break-up makes Midwest road trips more manageable for kids. If you have an infant in the car, pediatricians advise not to leave them in their car seat for more than 2 hours at a time at risk of impacting spinal development.

8. What are some essential items to pack for kids? Apart from clothing and toiletries, consider packing items such as blankets, favorite toys, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, sunscreen, hats, and reusable water bottles. Don’t forget chargers for electronic devices!

9. How can I make the trip educational for my kids? Midwest road trips offer ample opportunities for learning. Research each destination beforehand and share interesting facts or play podcasts/Youtube videos about the destination en route. Visit historical sites, museums, and nature reserves. Encourage kids to read road maps or calculate distances.

National Parks and State Parks have ranger and naturalist programs. Inquire when you arrive.

Final thoughts on Midwest Road Trips

The Midwest is packed with family-friendly attractions. Remember, every family is different. Tailor your Midwest road trips to suit your family’s interests and needs. Happy travels!

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16 Best Midwest Road Trips – Scenic Routes You Can’t Miss

Posted on Published: May 25, 2020  - Last updated: February 9, 2024

Ahhh, the Midwest. Vast landscapes with beautiful scenery, the ability to connect with nature and fun attractions. One of the best ways to explore the middle of the USA is with a Midwest road trip!

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

For those of us who live here, we know there’s so much to offer. Our waving grasses with rolling hills make for beautiful, peaceful sunsets. Gorgeous lakes simply begged to be explored.

Our cities each have something unique to offer, and mix that with Midwest charm, it makes for a great place for a road trip!

Midwest road trip ideas

I’ve explored many places across the Midwest, but I haven’t covered it all. So I turned to other experts to help me out to create this list of best Midwest road trips!

Here’s a bunch of Midwest road trip ideas, ranging from 2 days to 10. From outdoorsy to artsy, there’s truly something for everyone in the Midwest!

List of Midwestern States

But before we dive in, let’s clarify the states that cover the Midwest to help you plan your trip:

• Indiana (IN)
• Illinois (IL)
• Missouri (MO)
• Kansas (KS)
• Nebraska (NE)
• South Dakota (SD)
• North Dakota (ND)
• Minnesota (MN)
• Wisconsin (WI)
• Michigan (MI)

Looking for more Midwest adventures? Check out these 16 trails – the best hiking in the Midwest !

Ready to hit the road? Here’s the best Midwest road trips

Black hills, south dakota (a classic).

Recommended trip: 7-10 days

The Black Hills in South Dakota is one of the best places for a road trip in the Midwest.  There is so much to see and do, you could easily spend months here, but for a shorter trip, 7-10 days would be great.

Rapid City is probably the best place to fly in and out of for a Black Hills trip. I would start with a couple of days in Badlands National Park .  Spend the night in Wall, visit Wall Drug and the Badlands from here, then head over to Wind Cave National Park.

Spend a night or 2 in Hot Springs to easily access the park where you can do some hiking, look for bison, and do a cave tour. Make a stop at the Mammoth site while you’re here, too.

Finally, head to Keystone for a few days. This is the perfect base for exploring the Mount Rushmore and Custer State Park area. 

Some of the must-do activities here are visiting Mount Rushmore (of course), driving Iron Mountain Road , driving the Needles Highway, driving the Custer Wildlife Loop Road, hiking Cathedral Spires Trail, and relaxing at Sylvan Lake. If you want a little side trip, you can easily visit Devils Tower in Wyoming, too.  

Recommended by Megan of Red Around the World

Chicago to St. Louis road trip

Recommended trip: 4-6 days

Driving from Chicago, Illinois to St. Louis, Missouri should be on any midwest road trip. This journey is part of Route 66, one of the original highways in the United States. Route 66 was the primary route for people wishing to move west. Opt to spend one day driving this four and a half-hour drive, or break it up and spend the night in Springfield, Illinois.  

For this journey, start in Chicago. Make sure to spend at least 3 days in Chicago. Stay in the centrally located Downtown/River North area. Do not miss the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Grab some pictures at “The Bean” in Millenium Park. Daredevils can opt for “The Edge” experience at the Skydeck or the Tilt Experience at the John Hancock Building. 

In the morning depart Chicago to drive south towards Springfield, the capital of Illinois . Stop by the capitol building and take a free tour of the building.

Visit Abraham Lincoln’s grave at Oak Ridge Cemetery and then visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. Grab a custard at Krekel’s before heading onward to St. Louis, Missouri. 

Plan to spend at least 2 days in St. Louis to explore the main sites. Plan to stay in the Downtown area. Ride to the top of the St. Louis Arch at Gateway Arch National Park.

Take a peek into history at the Old Courthouse, where the Dread Scott decision was made. Make sure to eat some delicious BBQ before departing St. Louis.

Recommended by Francesca of Home Room Travel

You might also like: 101 Road Trip Food Ideas: Best Fun and Healthy Snacks You’ll Love

Indianapolis, IN to Boyne City, MI

Recommended trip: 2-3 days

Ready for a fantastic Midwest road trip? Regardless of the time of year, driving from Indianapolis, Indiana to Boyne City, MI is a perfect way to enjoy a long weekend.

Day one, you’ll want to get up early and head to Lansing, MI. It’s about 3.5 hours from Indy, so if you time it right, be sure to stop for lunch at Soup Spoon Cafe – a flight of soup is a fun way to start your mini-vacation. Next, if you have younger kids, head over to the Impression 5 Science Center – they’ll love the full sensory experiences. 

After the museum, finish your drive north and check-in at Boyne Mountain for the night. Enjoy a full day of exploring Boyne Mountain and nearby Boyne City the next day. If it’s winter, hit the slopes for a little skiing or even tubing.

If it’s summertime, enjoy hiking, ziplining, or swimming. Downtown Boyne City is situated right on Lake Charlevoix and the town is full of delicious restaurants such as Cafe Sante and Red Mesa as well as unique local boutiques.

Leave Boyne Mountain, and head over to Petoskey for your final day. Start it off right with amazing bagels and donuts at Johann’s Bakery and then hurry over to the main Kilwins location for a factory tour. Kilwin’s offers free tours Monday – Friday every half-hour from 10 – 4:30, and each one ends with a decadent chocolate treat.

After the tour, spend a little time poking around downtown Petoskey for lunch and to pick up a few Michigan souvenirs before heading back to Indianapolis.

Recommended by Pam of Our Adventure is Everywhere

You might also like: Road Trip with Kids: 15 Essentials to Pack

Central Iowa road trip

We highly recommend taking a road trip through Central Iowa. You’ll pass through  Des Moines , Iowa’s capital and other smaller towns that have some fun and interesting attractions.

Heading east along I-80, your first stop should be the town of Winterset. It’s famous for having the  actual  bridges of Madison County. Six of the original 19 covered bridges in Madison County have been preserved just outside of town. Winterset is also the birthplace of John Wayne. There is a museum dedicated to him, with lots of personal and movie memorabilia.

Continuing east, you reach Des Moines. We love this artsy city! It’s easy to find street art there and downtown has a 4.4-acre sculpture park that is free to the public. There’s also a really lovely botanical garden in Des Moines.

Of course, visiting the Capitol Building is a must. You can do a free self-guided tour and marvel at the building’s incredible architecture.

The next stop on your road trip should be the town of Grinnell. Home to Grinnell College, they have a small but impressive art museum on campus.

Grinnell is also the home of one of eight “jewel-box” banks built by legendary architect Louis Sullivan. He is considered the father of modern American architecture and mentored Frank Lloyd Wright. The bank is beautiful, with large stained-glass windows and pink Tennessee marble floors.

Recommended by Vicky of Buddy The Traveling Monkey

More road trip destinations in the Midwest

St. louis to kansas city.

Recommended trip: 3-5 days

While many people think of Missouri as a fly-over state, it’s full of not-to-be-missed gems, from St. Louis to Kansas City. So why not see some of them in one fell swoop with a 5-day road trip?

Start in St. Louis, a city bursting with historic architecture and a thriving food and cocktail scene. Spend 2 days here, exploring the City Museum, an adult playground/art installation of interactive salvaged architectural objects. Visit Forest Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks and its world-class museums, all boasting free admission. And, of course, the Missouri Botanical Gardens, consistently ranked one of the best in the nation.

At night, eat your way through the exploding culinary landscape, with one of the many restaurants helmed by James Beard nominated chefs, like Vicia or Lona’s Lil’ Eats.

Once you’ve gotten your fill, drive west to Hermann, a tiny town that has several wineries, breweries, and distilleries nestled in its idyllic grassy hills. For just $20, the Hermann Trolley will shuttle you between these establishments all day, so you can responsibly imbibe in as many craft beverages as you please.

After a day here, finish your trip with 2 days in Kansas City, famous for its jazz scene. To get a taste of it yourself, head to the American Jazz Museum during the day and the Green Lady Lounge at night to see some of the world’s best musicians in action. By the end of the trip, you’ll be ecstatic to have discovered some of the Show Me State’s abundant treasures! 

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

Oh, and if you’re planning to rent a car for one of these Midwest road trip routes, be sure to check out the cheap rates on Discover Cars . I usually save 10-30%, which can really add up! Discover Cars searches the top carriers to find the best deal, at no extra cost to you. It’s a win-win! Search cheap rental cars now .

Milwaukee to Wisconsin Dells

One of the best Midwest road trips you can take is exploring the highlights of Wisconsin. The ideal road trip itinerary takes you from Milwaukee to Green Bay and ends in Wisconsin Dells.

Start your road trip in Milwaukee , but you can’t leave without spending at least 2 days in this vibrant city. As a matter of fact, people flood from all over the United States to visit Milwaukee for its food, attractions and history.

Must do’s are the Harley Davidson Museum and the historic Third Ward.  Stay in the iconic Pfister Hotel in downtown.

From here you finally head out to the beautiful North of Wisconsin. Along the Michigan river you’ll cross scenic towns such as Port Washington. When you arrive in Green Bay, get ready to explore this vibrant town located in Door County. 

Some of the best things to do here are visiting the Heritage Hill State Park and watch a game by the legendary Green Bay Packers. Plan at least 1 day to visit the city and all the best things to do in Door County .

From Green Bay you’ll drive to Wisconsin Dells which is famous for its waterparks. However, there is so much more to do here. From shopping to hiking in the Dells or staying overnight in one of the  most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , there will be plenty of options to spend at least 2 days in Wisconsin Dells.

Recommended by Paulina of Paulina on the Road

Southern Minnesota road trip

Eat, relax and have fun in Southern Minnesota! Enjoy a food lovers paradise in Austin, Minnesota. Known for having some of the best Mexican food in the state of Minnesota, Austin is also known for award-winning BBQ sauces, french onion soup and stuffed raspberry french toast.

Want to have a food challenge, then be sure to stop by the Tendermaid. Also, don’t forget to visit the one and only SPAM Museum ! Yes – it’s real and there are nearly 20 restaurants with SPAM on the menu.

Then sit back, relax and enjoy the view in Fairmont, Minnesota . Home to a chain of 5 lakes and 29 parks in city limits, Fairmont provides you that opportunity to become one with nature. Explore lakeside dining, outdoor recreation and an arts and culture scene that is sure to impress .

Next discover how  Germans Have More Fun  in New Ulm! Enjoy a road trip through the MN River Valley National Scenic Byway to the most German city in America.

In New Ulm you can climb 102’ to the top of the ‘Herman the German’ monument. Enjoy a tour/tasting at Schell’s Brewery, MN’s oldest brewery. Shop the unique boutiques in the historic downtown. Hear bells chime at our Glockenspiel. See the 1873 murals in the rathskeller at Turner Hall. 

With so much to do in Southern Minnesota, there’s something for everyone!

Read next: How to Save Money for Travel: Your Vacation Savings Plan

Richmond, IN to Butler County, OH

If you’re looking for a cool trip, head to Indiana and Ohio! Starting off in Richmond, Indiana, visit the Wayne County Historical Museum and the Levi Coffin House. Be sure to hear their amazing story of the Underground Railroad!

Stay at the Starr Loft in Richmond before heading to Ohio. On your way to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands, take a diversion into Bremen at the Bicycle Museum of America. Then onto the Marblehead Lighthouse in Marblehead, Ohio where this historic lighthouse guided sailors safely since 1822.

That night stay at Port Clinton’s Fairfield Inn & Suites. The next morning, head over to Ohio’s Lake Erie Islands. Take Miller Boat Line’s Ferry to Put-in-Bay where you can ferry your car over to the island.

Visit Perry’s Peace Memorial which honors the War of 1812. Check out the view up the 352-foot tower! The memorial honors those who fought in the Battle of Lake Erie. The next day, on Kellys Island, take a tour in a golf cart to check out natural phenomenons like the Glacial Grooves.

Be sure to hang out for an afternoon in Downtown Sandusky, Ohio . Take a Segway tour, visit Cedar Point Amusement Park, visit the Merry-Go-Round Museum or go parasailing.

Last stop on this road trip is Butler County, Ohio! Enjoy the Donut Trail and tour outdoor art at the Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park.

Recommended by Cindy of Traveling Adventures of a Farm Girl

Related read: Best Midwest Camping Spots

Loess Hills Scenic Byway (Missouri to Iowa)

The Loess Hills Scenic Byway takes its travelers through the most extensive loess (essentially, ancient wind-blown silt deposits) outside a remote region of China! While the byway officially starts at the Iowa state border, the hills themselves run north-south a bit east of the Missouri River, from St. Joseph, Missouri to the Sioux City, Iowa area, passing near Omaha, Nebraska in the middle of the journey.

Each of these cities are destinations in their own right, and combined, they make a road trip full of scenic views and ample entertaining places to stop along the way.  

In St. Joe, Missouri, local museums provide fascinating looks at the history of the Pony Express, the art of Thomas Hart Benton (often depicting loess hills!) and the life of the nefarious Jesse James. Near Mound City, Missouri, visit the Loess Bluffs National Wildlife Refuge to see waterfowl and bald eagles.

The Hitchcock Nature Center near Omaha and the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Sioux City provide more information about the unique geology, flora, and fauna of the Loess Hills along with opportunities for hiking, boating, and more!

For ideal cruising food, try Billy Boy Drive-through just a few miles from the Dorothy Pecaut Nature Center in Soiux City for a burger and a shake! 

Recommended by Lindsay of Siouxland Families

More ideas: Midwest road trips

Minneapolis to omaha.

Recommended trip: 4-5 days

Get a nice mix of cities and wide open spaces on a Midwest road trip from Minneapolis to Omaha. Starting in Minneapolis, you’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting the lakes, restaurants and of course, checking out the Mall of America .

Visit the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden in downtown and grab an ice cream cone at Izzy’s Ice Cream . The largest mall in North America (Mall of America) is a whole lot more than shopping, too. With an indoor amusement park, it’s the perfect activity for any weather.

Then hit the road! Next stop: Northwestern Iowa. Stop in Estherville, Iowa for a rustic winery , experience an 80-year old swinging bridge or to visit the site of the largest known meteorite seen crashing into North America.

You could stay in Esterville for the night, or head about half an hour west to Lake Okoboji. In Okoboji, Iowa you’ll find shopping, dining and a bunch of water activities , of course! Try the Arnold’s Park Amusement Park or live music after a day on the water.

Next on this Midwest road trip is Sioux City, Iowa. Grab lunch or dinner at the Fourth Street Historic District in downtown Sioux City , catch a show at the Orpheum Theatre or visit Palmer’s Old Tyme Candy Shoppe for a sweet treat before leaving town.

Omaha, Nebraska is the final destination on this Midwest road trip itinerary. You’ll want to spend 1-2 days visiting this fun city. Omaha is known as the silicone prarie, a tech hub that’s family-friendly, yet trendy enough to support a vibrant art scene and plenty of outdoor space.

One of the best things to do in Omaha is to visit the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium , It’s the largest tourist attraction in the state, and regularly competes with the San Diego Zoo as the #1 zoo in the country! It really is that fantastic!

Check out North America’s largest indoor rain forest, feed the giraffes, walk under sharks in the aquarium and watch the animals in the world’s largest indoor desert dome. Tip: be sure to buy your tickets in advance online and arrive early to avoid the crowds as best as you can.

Get a good tour of the city while taking fun photos at the most Instagrammable places in Omaha . Spend some time wandering the Lauritzen Gardens or check out the Fun-Plex Waterpark.

For some mystery check out the Joslyn Castle , and for some history visit the Lewis and Clark Landing. The Old Market in downtown is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat after a long day touring the city.

Recommended by me! Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Duluth to Grand Marais, Minnesota

Recommended trip: 1-2 days

A Minnesota road trip on Highway 61 between Duluth and Grand Marais will offer you amazing views of Lake Superior, numerous options for a delicious bite to eat, and some can’t miss attractions .

As you leave Duluth, choose the 24-mile scenic route to Two Harbors, and take in the view of Lake Superior along the way. In Two Harbors you can walk along the breakwater to the lighthouse, and watch the ore ships coming and going. Enjoy a local brew at Castle Danger Brewery after doing some shopping in Agate Bay.

Just north of Two Harbors is Betty’s Pies and you don’t want to miss stopping here ! This is a full service restaurant, but they also have a walk up counter where you can order their famous pie. The pie flavors change every day, but you definitely want to try the Great Lakes Fruit Pie . This pie is filled with blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, and rhubarb and it is one of a kind.

It is 11 miles to the next stop, in Castle Danger, but get your camera ready because you’ll be driving through 2 large tunnels, and the exits of both perfectly frame Lake Superior. 

Castle Danger is home to Gooseberry Falls and Split Rock Lighthouse State Parks. You can learn a little history of the area while touring the lighthouse and take a hike down the hillside to dip your toes in the cool Lake Superior water.

Gooseberry Falls State Park has 5 waterfalls that you can hike to, and a very nice visitor center to buy some souvenirs at.

Along the remaining 72 miles to Grand Marais, take the time to stop at a beach or two to hunt for agates. The beaches along the North Shore are loaded with agates and it’s fun to find a few to bring home.  

The city of Grand Marais has a main street full of local shops that ends on the shore of Lake Superior.  The beach is a popular spot to watch the water, and to eat a delicious donut from World’s Best Donuts or maybe you’ll want a slice of thin crust pizza from Sven and Ole’s.  

Grand Marais is also the start of the Gunflint Trail. This is a 57-mile paved roadway that ends in the Boundary Waters Canoe Area near the border of Ontario.

This 110 mile road trip between Duluth and Grand Marais can be made in one day, but why not take your time and really discover the beauty of Lake Superior and the North Shore.

Recommended by Vicki of That Was a First

I-70 Kansas road trip: Abilene to Kansas City

Recommended trip: 2-4 days

Enjoy a wealth of historic, cultural, and recreational activities along Interstate 70 in northern Kansas. Start in Abilene, Kansas with visiting the Eisenhower Presidential Library, Museum, and Boyhood Home. Head over to pet Ginger, the greeter at the Greyhound Hall of Fame. Enjoy award-winning fried chicken at the Brookville Hotel.

Next stop along I-70 in Kansas is Junction City, home to Milford Lake and the Fishing Capital of Kansas. Tour Fort Riley’s museums, but prepare for security. Eat Munson-raised, dry-aged beef at Munson’s Prime restaurant, a local favorite. A perfect spot to call it a night is by the lake at Acorns Resort.

Then you’ll hit Manhattan, Kansas. For high adventure, fly zip lines at Wildwood Adventure Park. Afterwards, relax and eat and drink at Liquid Art Winery & Estate!

Slide into Topeka, Kansas where you can dive into history and visit the state capitol and the national historic site where the Supreme Court reversed segregation in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka . A great way to end the day is with elegance at the Cyrus Hotel.

As you head east on I-70, you’ll get to Lecompton, Kansas. Learn more about where slavery began to die at Constitution Hall State Historic Site and the Territorial Capitol. Then lighten things back up by grabbing a slice of gourmet pie at Aunt Netter’s Cafe. Delicious!

Next up is Lawrence, Kansas and downtown is the place to be! Experience downtown Lawrence during the day or night. See basketball’s original rules at The Cradle of Basketball. And if you’re looking for a brewery, Free State Brewing Co. is Kansas’ first post-prohibition brewery. Stay at in the heart of Lawrence at The Oread.

The final stop on this Northern Kansas road trip before arriving at Kansas City is Leavenworth, Kansas. Visit Fort Leavenworth, or ride antique carousels at C.W. Parker Carousel Museum. A must-try in Leavenworth is the steak house tenderloin at Metropolitan Steakhouse.

Wrapping up the I-70 Kansas road trip is of course, Kansas City! Enjoy the major leagues: sporting Kansas City at Children’s Mercy Park and NASCAR at Kansas Speedway. Eat top-notch barbecue at SLAP’s BBQ. After a great road trip in Kansas, stay in the Chateau Avalon.    

Recommended by Roxie of Roxie on the Road

Midwest road trip: Missouri Route 66

While most people think of a  Route 66  Road Trip as starting in Chicago and ending in Santa Monica, you don’t need to take two weeks and traverse half the country to get in a taste of the Mother Road. Instead, you can pick a portion and explore it in-depth.

Missouri has a great stretch of Route 66 right here in the Midwest. It starts in the northeast crossing over from Illinois into St. Louis and ends at the Oklahoma border after passing through Joplin.

Obviously the most iconic site on Missouri’s portion of Route 66 is the Gateway Arch, which practically welcomes you onto the road. Make sure to tour Meramec Caverns , see the one-room jail in Cuba, and explore the interesting history of Carthage. 

Take advantage of the fun roadside kitsch of the route and get out at as many stops as you can. A real Route 66 road trip means you need to spend a few nights in the state’s retro motels and enjoy some diners and dive bars.

Recommended by Stephanie of Oklahoma Wonders

Driftless Area Scenic Byway (Iowa)

Recommended trip: 1-3 days

Allamakee County is the home to the most scenic byway in the state of Iowa, Driftless Area Scenic Byway. This beautiful scenic byway zigzags its way on hard-surfaced and gravel roads through the high relief, pre-glacial landscape in extreme northeastern Iowa in Allamakee County. 

This byway has been voted most scenic byway in the state of Iowa . It’s 100 miles of amazing! Along the Driftless Area Scenic Byway you will find…

Effigy Mounds National Monument , the 2,526-acre park by the Yellow River has walking trails with modest to extended routes, allowing you to select your route and view a variety of mounds. An accessible boardwalk trail into the wetlands near the visitor center is available for persons of all walking abilities.

Yellow River State Forest was first acquired as a state forest in 1935, the Yellow River State Forest has grown to encompass nearly 9,000 acres of natural beauty.

Great River Road , where you can enjoy 36.2 miles of the Great River Road in Allamakee County. You will discover the best of the Great River Road right here!

Driftless Area Education & Visitor Center , where you’ll see live animals, interpretative displays, 2 viewing decks of the Mississippi River, and a great group educational experience.  Located just south of Lansing.

This Midwest road trip takes your scenic adventure to another level with:

• Wine Tasting – Madigan Winery, Lansing & Empty Nest Winery, Waukon
• Bird Watching
• Beer Tasting – Safe House Saloon in Lansing
• Trout Fishing
• Cheese Curd Tour – WW Homestead Dairy in Waukon
• Shopping – Horsfall’s in Lansing, Paint Creek Gifts in Waterville and City Meat Market inNew Albin

Recommended by Val of Allamakee County

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Triple Nickel Byway (Ohio)

Winding through the southern part of Ohio is the  Triple Nickel  which encompasses parts of State Route 555. If you’ve never been on this scenic, twisting by-way through the hills of Ohio, you need to put it on your bucket list! This is a perfect day trip that takes you from the picturesque town of Zanesville to the history-rich city of Marrietta.  

The Triple Nickel is one of the more challenging roads in Ohio, but you can take in some of the amazing historical sites when you’re in the area. While touring through Morgan County you can see the Big Muskie bucket part of the world’s largest earth-moving machine in Miner’s Memorial Park and Barkhurst Mill Covered Bridge.  

No trip on the Triple Nickel is complete without stopping to eat at the Triple Nickel Diner in Chesterhill. Pro-tip: Make sure to check their website for the hours of operation because they vary with the seasons.  

If you’re looking for a great place to stay while on the route, take a small detour to the  Stockport Mill Inn located in Stockport, Ohio . You’ll be treated to stunning views of the Muskingum River and the operating locks. Dotty, the owner, will treat you like family and feed you amazing comfort foods only found at the Inn.

The Triple Nickel doesn’t disappoint the road tripper looking for a challenge in the Midwest.

Recommended by Brandy of Gleason Family Adventure

Madison to Spring Green, Wisconsin

One of the most exciting small cities in the Midwest is  Madison, Wisconsin . It has a wonderful dining scene and miles of shoreline and bike trails.

A culmination of a college-town and a bustling city, Madison is also home one of America’s most beloved architects: Frank Lloyd Wright. Wright used Madison and its neighborhoods as a canvas, where visitors can see his many designs come to life. Although several of Madison’s Wright-designed houses are private residences, designs like the First Unitarian Meeting Houses and Monona Terrace are must-see spots for any architectural buffs! Both buildings are just a short 10-minute drive away.

If you want to see more of the city’s art scene , visit either the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art or the Chazen Museum of Art! Both museums boast both Wisconsin-based artists, as well as international artists too. Furthermore, admission is free for adults, making this the perfect stop for anyone that loves to travel on a budget. 

While you’re in Madison we also highly recommend grabbing tacos from Matthew Danky and his exciting outpost El Grito Tacqueria.  

From Madison, drive about 40 minutes to the quaint town of New Glarus , Wisconsin. The main attraction here is New Glarus Brewing, one of the most highly regarded breweries by beer snobs across the country so make sure to spend a few hours there. 

New Glarus also has rich Swiss heritage. Explore and find an authentic Swiss bakery or locally made raclette and cheese fondue.

Our last stop is very enjoyable Spring Green, an hour away down winding country roads.  Frank Lloyd Wright spent the better part of his life living and working in Spring Green and maintained a school at Taliesin. Wright’s students designed many unique buildings in and around Spring Green.

Recommended by Nick of Road Goat

16 best Midwest road trips

Well there you have it! I hope you’ve found some inspiration on which route you’ll take on your upcoming Midwest road trip! Midwest states have a lot to offer for any type of road trip you’re looking for!

Comment below on which you’re considering – or which route surprised you most!

You might also like: Best Hiking in the Midwest – 16 Cool Hikes You’ll Love Denver to Moab Road Trip: 16 Scenic Stops You Gotta See to Believe 27 Awesome Things to Do in Sandusky, Ohio You Can’t Miss Perfect Colorado Itinerary: 22 Road Trip Stops You Need to See Miami to Key West Road Trip: 22 Stops Along the Way 26 Best Places to Visit in October in the US

Planning to rent a car for one of these scenic routes? Check out the cheap rental car rates on my favorite site. I save up to 30%, which is awesome!

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Saturday 25th of September 2021

Awesome. I'm wanting to take a scenic drive from Kansas to Ohio, off the beaten path. What are your recommendations?

Sunday 26th of September 2021

Where in Kansas and Ohio? I've spent time in Kansas City and St. Louis which may be along the way, but aren't necessarily off the beaten path. Perhaps a bit more southern, I've heard the Mark Twain National Forest and Shawnee National Forest are both gorgeous! Otherwise I've recently spent time in Sandusky Ohio, Put-in-Bay Ohio and the Lake Erie area. I'm sorry, I'm not sure I have a whole lot of suggestions for that specific route since I haven't personally done it. Best of luck on your road trip!

Alice Peace

Wednesday 27th of January 2021

Thank you for this! A road-trip in the States is definitely on the cards in the future.

Yay! How fun, Alice. I'm crossing my fingers it's soon!

Pamela Foester

Tuesday 12th of January 2021

I love exploring the Midwest, thanks for sharing.

You're so welcome, Pamela!

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

You missed a Gem of the Midwest. Part of the Driftless region on NE Iowa you need to check out the town of Decorah and the area around it. River bluffs, water falls, bike trails, 3 award winning breweries, big Scandinavian culture and museum.

Wednesday 26th of August 2020

Great suggestion! I've heard of Decorah but have never been!

Christa Ellis

Tuesday 9th of June 2020

I love that you included the Levi Coffin House. I have a post about it on my blog. Levi Coffin was a distant cousin to me through his grandmother Prudence Beals/Bales.

Friday 12th of June 2020

Oh very cool! What a small world, Christa! My pleasure to feature it. :)

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15 Fun Wisconsin Road Trips For Your Bucket List

October 1, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the most fun Wisconsin road trips for your bucket list?

Then you’ve come to the right place!

I was born and raised in the Midwest, Youngstown Ohio to be exact, so I know that there are so many great hidden gems in the Midwest just waiting to be discovered.

It is one of my favorite states in the Midwest not only because it’s beautiful, but also because there are just so many things to do in Wisconsin .

I’ve made sure to include some of my favorite spots and stops in a lot of these super fun Wisconsin road trips.

No matter what kind of road trip you’re interested in there’s a Wisconsin getaway perfect for you.

From scenic drives in Wisconsin to exploring Wisconsin’s major cities, I’m sure you’ll have a great time driving through Wisconsin on one of these road trips.

So, let’s take a look at 15 fun Wisconsin road trips for your bucket list!

Drive The Great River Road National Scenic Byway

• Trempealeau

Start your exploration of Wisconsin’s section of the Great River Road National Scenic Byway in Prescott.

There you can learn more about this scenic drive in Wisconsin at the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center.

From there, continue south with a stop in the fun town of Stockholm, one of the cutest small towns in Wisconsin .

Next, you’ll stop in Alma where you’ll find a series of unique walkways thanks to the town being so closely built between the river and the steep mountain bluffs.

Your final stop is Trempealeau. The town has a charming main street, the historic Trempealeau Hotel, and it is close to the Perrot State Park and Trempealeau National Wildlife Refuge.

Explore The Big Cities Of Wisconsin Road Trip

Wisconsin isn’t just small towns and scenic drives. It’s also got some great big cities to explore.

For your starting point, you can either choose Kenosha or Milwaukee.

Both cities are pretty close to each other, but I suggest starting in Kenosha so you’d don’t have to backtrack at all.

In Kenosha, there are tons of cool museums to explore, like the Kenosha Public Museum or the Dinosaur Discovery Museum.

From Kenosha, head north along Lake Michigan and stop in Milwaukee. There are so many things to do in Milwaukee.

One of the coolest Wisconsin weekend getaways is in Milwaukee.

It is also one of the most popular Wisconsin road trip destinations because of its fun attractions like the plethora of breweries and the Harley-Davidson Museum.

Tickets Here: Milwaukee Sightseeing Bus Tour

Next, you’ll stop in Wisconsin’s capital city, Madison. There are so many cool things to do in Madison .

In Madison, I suggest taking in the history and learning all about Wisconsin.

Finish your Wisconsin road trips through big cities in Green Bay, home of the Green Bay Packers, where sports fans will find plenty to do. There are many other things to do in Green Bay as well!

Take The Kettle Moraine Wisconsin Scenic Drive

• Elkhart Lake
• Ice Age Visitor Center
• Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail
• Whitewater Lake

One of the best scenic drives in Wisconsin is the Kettle Moraine Scenic Route.

The route connects the Northern and Southern parts of the Kettle Moraine State Forest and crosses through 6 counties.

Start in the northern section at Elkhart Lake and enjoy the gorgeous views, especially if you are visiting the Midwest in the fall.

From there, continue south and make a stop at the Ice Age Visitor Center to learn about the glacier that helped shape the Wisconsin landscape.

As you continue south, you’ll find plenty of scenic spots, historic sites, and epic places to go hiking in Wisconsin.

I suggest taking a break and stretching your legs about halfway through at the Scuppernong Springs Nature Trail.

It’s a pretty easy 1.8-mile trail that takes you through some scenic areas of Kettle Moraine Park.

Your Kettle Moraine Scenic Route ends at Whitewater Lake, where you can hang out on the beach, go boating, or just enjoy the views on a walk.

Stroll Through The Beautiful Botanical Gardens Of Wisconsin

• Boerner Botanical Gardens
• Rotary Botanical Gardens
• Olbrich Botanical Gardens
• Bookworm Garden

On this fun Wisconsin road trip, you’ll get to see some of the state’s best botanical and themed gardens.

They are some of the most beautiful attractions in Wisconsin!

Begin your garden getaway in Wisconsin at the Boerner Botanical Gardens in Hales Corner, just outside of Milwaukee.

From there, head to Janesville to walk through the 20 acres of landscaped grounds at the Rotary Botanical Gardens.

The Rotary Botanical Gardens have several themed gardens, including a traditional English, French, and Japanese garden.

Continue north to the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison. There you’ll find 16 acres of gardens as well as a 10,000-square-foot stunning conservatory to explore.

Finish your garden road trip in Wisconsin at the Bookworm Garden in Sheboygan.

This special garden is designed with whimsical elements meant to remind you of some of your favorite childhood books and it’s a perfect ending for this peaceful Wisconsin getaway.

These are some of the best places to visit in Wisconsin!

Learn About Wisconsin’s Cranberry Tradition On The Cranberry Highway

• Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center
• Glacial Lake Cranberries

The Cranberry Highway is perfect if you are looking for Wisconsin road trips that aren’t super long.

This stretch of scenic highways is only about 50 miles long, so it’s a great day trip option.

If you take this road trip in Wisconsin during the fall , you’ll see the cranberry marshes full of bright red fruits against the fall leaves of the trees, and it is gorgeous.

You’ll want to start your Cranberry Highway Wisconsin road trip in Warrens.

Warrens is ‘The Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin’ and there is a Discovery Center there that teaches you all about Wisconsin’s cranberry heritage and history.

After that, head to Pittsville to take the Splash of Red Cranberry Tours and get an in-depth look at cranberry farming.

Next, head to Rubi Reds to stock up on all the cranberry products you could ever want.

End your road trip at Glacial Lake Cranberries, which is a cranberry farm that has been continuously running since 1873.

There are so many fun events in Wisconsin to enjoy!

Travel Coast To Coast On The Wisconsin Road Trips Highway 33

• Port Washington

I suggest driving across Wisconsin on Highway 33 from east to west, which means starting in Port Washington.

Port Washington, as its name suggests, is a charming port town that is full of historic buildings, Lake Michigan views, and a lively downtown district.

As you continue driving west, you’ll come to the town of West Bend.

In West Bend, there are a few unique museums you can check out, like the Museum of Wisconsin Art, the Regal Ware Museum, and the St. Agnes Historical Site.

Continuing west there are a ton of small towns you can stop in, and while you don’t have to stop in all of them, I suggest at least taking a break in Portage.

Portage has two rivers that connect the Great Lakes to the Gulf of Mexico, historic buildings, and you can also walk a portion of the National Ice Age Trail.

Your last stop as you cross Wisconsin is in La Crosse, just before the border into Minnesota.

In La Crosse, see the ‘World’s Largest Six Pack’, the Mississippi River, and explore the vibrant town.

There are so many resorts in Wisconsin to discover on your WI road trip!

Explore The Beautiful Waterfalls Of Wisconsin Road Trip

• Big Manitou Falls
• Lost Creek Falls
• Morgan Falls
• Copper Falls

Wisconsin is full of beautiful waterfalls, so why not make a waterfalls of Wisconsin road trip?

Your first stop should be Big Manitou Falls, the highest waterfall in Wisconsin. It drops 165 feet into the Black River and puts on quite the show.

From there, head to the natural hidden woodland waterfall outside of Cornocopia, the Lost Creek Falls.

They are not in a designated park, and the hike is a bit more difficult, but it’s worth it for the view of a piece of untouched Wisconsin woodland.

After testing out your hiking skills, try a much easier trail of about a mile to view the Morgan Falls.

Morgan Falls is a thin waterfall that trails down the side of a cliff face for about 80 feet before dropping into a tributary.

Finish your waterfalls of Wisconsin road trip at Copper Falls in Copper Falls State Park, just one of the many beautiful state parks in Wisconsin .

The state park has a few waterfalls, so pick a trail, and head out to see one of them. But if you just want to see one, I suggest at least hiking to the Copper Falls themselves.

Wisconsin’s Frank Lloyd Wright Trail

• Spring Green
• Richland Center

The famous American architect was born and raised in Wisconsin, so it’s no surprise that one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin is the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail .

The trail is spread out between five cities that each have a prominent Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building, and all of the buildings on the trail are open to the public.

So make sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore each one.

You’ll start the self-guided trail in Racine where you can admire the SC Johnson Administration Building and Research Tower as well as Wingspread, two iconic Wright buildings.

From there, make a quick stop in Milwaukee to see the Burnham American System-Built homes Wright helped design. Stop for a quick bite to eat or for dinner at one of the restaurants in Milwaukee.

Next, in Madison, you can check out the Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center as well as the First Unitarian Society building.

In Spring Green you can tour Wright’s home and studio, Taliesin, and the Wyoming Valley School.

Your last stop on this unique Wisconsin getaway is the AD German Warehouse in Richland Center.

Enjoy The Scenic Highway 42 To Door County

• Sturgeon Bay

If you want to take a scenic Wisconsin drive on the way to visiting Door County, I suggest the Highway 42 road trip.

Start in Sheboygan, the Bratwurst Capital of the World, and spend some time exploring this cute town with a unique history.

Continue driving on the beautiful twisty roads and make your next stop at Kewaunee. Kewaunee is a small town that has some beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

After enjoying the views in Kewaunee you’ll take some time to stop and explore Sturgeon Bay.

Sturgeon Bay puts you just barely in Door County, so it’s a good place to stop.

There are just so many things to do in Door County!

If you want to do the full Door County Circle Tour as well, you’ll continue past Sturgeon Bay.

But if not, after exploring Sturgeon Bay, head back to Sheboygan, or drive past Sheboygan and spend some time in Chicago.

Drive The Door County Circle Tour

• Jacksonport

There are a ton of cute towns scattered throughout the peninsula that make up Door County, and I’ve just chosen a few of my favorites.

So feel free to make even more stops along the way, but just make sure to give yourself plenty of time.

One of the towns that serve as a welcoming area for Door County is Brussels.

The charming town is known for having the largest Belgian settlement in the country and is known for its charming farms, back roads, and nods to classic Belgian architecture.

From there, head into Sturgeon Bay, which is the largest city on the Door County peninsula. Take some time to explore the visitors center and the city.

Heading around the peninsula on the Bay Side, make a stop in Egg Harbor.

It’s a popular town to explore, grab a bite to eat, at some of the restaurants in Door County , and enjoy the views from the marina and beach.

The next stop you’ll make is at Gills Rock, which is the northernmost tip of the peninsula.

Gills Rock is a quaint fishing village that offers up some serious old-world charm.

As you finish up your scenic drive in Wisconsin, you’ll come down the Lake Side of the peninsula, where you’ll make your final stop in Jacksonport.

Walk the white sandy beaches in Door County , shop for some souvenirs, or try paddling on the lake before you head home.

If you have time, there are so many things to do in Washington Island , so plan to explore that part of Door County as well.

Wisconsin Road Trips For Hiking The Best State Parks

• Devil’s Lake State Park
• Governor Dodge State Park
• Harrington Beach State Park
• Copper Falls State Park
• Amnicon Falls State Park

For this getaway in Wisconsin, you’ll be traveling from southern Wisconsin all the way to northern Wisconsin exploring Wisconsin’s best state parks.

Start in southern Wisconsin at Devil’s Lake State Park, in Baraboo, just outside of the famous Wisconsin Dells .

Devil’s Lake State Park is often considered the best state park in Wisconsin, so it’s a perfect must-see starting point.

You’ll take a short drive to get to Governor Dodge State Park, which has tons of trails, two lakes to swim in, and massive sandstone bluffs.

Next, head towards Lake Michigan and spend some time relaxing on the beaches of Harrington Beach State Park.

When you’ve had your fill of sunny time spent on the sand start driving north to Copper Falls State Park.

This is the longest stretch of the road trip, so feel free to make any stops along the way.

At Copper Falls State Park, choose one of the many trails that leads to the park’s equally many waterfalls.

For your last stop, spend some time exploring Amnicon Falls State Park.

You can hike to see even more waterfalls, admire the beautiful scenery, and relax before heading home.

Find The Best Hidden Gems Of Wisconsin On This Road Trip

• Cave Of The Mounds
• The House On The Rock
• Witches Gulch
• Grandad Bluff

This is one of the best Wisconsin road trips if you want to see some of the lesser-known attractions in the state, the true Midwest hidden gems.

The first stop is in the charming small town of New Glarus. New Glarus is America’s Little Switzerland and is full of beer gardens, Swiss-inspired architecture, and more.

After exploring the small town, head to the Cave of the Mounds, which is a National Natural Landmark in Wisconsin where you can explore a massive limestone cave. It is on

Your next stop is in Spring Green to see the House on the Rock. This unique tourist attraction was designed by architect Alex Jordan Jr and opened in 1959.

Inside you’ll find shops, gardens, distinctly designed rooms, and even whole streets. It’s a really cool place to see in Wisconsin.

After exploring that man-made wonder, check out the natural wonder that is Witches Gulch in Wisconsin Dells. This is one of the best Midwest weekend getaways!

You’ll need to take a boat tour to see this unique rock canyon that has a narrow wooden bridge, but it’s worth it.

The last stop on this tour of unique places to visit in Wisconsin is the Grandad Bluff in La Crosse.

At the top of Grandad Bluff, because of its location, you are able to look down into Iowa, Minnesota, and of course, Wisconsin.

Explore The Beaches And Lakes On This Wisconsin Road Trips

• Racine North Beach, Lake Michigan
• Geneva Lake
• Devil’s Lake
• Lake Wissota
• Meyers Beach, Lake Superior

Not only does Wisconsin have shores on two Great Lakes, but there are also a ton of smaller lakes scattered throughout the state.

For this lakeside getaway in Wisconsin, you’ll drive from the southern area of the state near Lake Michigan all the way to the northern area of the state at Lake Superior.

Start your drive with some time spent at Racine North Beach which is on the shores of Lake Michigan.

It’s just outside of Milwaukee and is a favorite Lake Michigan beach in the area. From there, head to Geneva Lake.

Geneva Lake is a popular day trip from Chicago because it is a great lake with beautiful beaches but also a fun beachy town.

Next, spend some time at Devil’s Lake State Park and enjoy Devil’s Lake. You can boat, swim, or simply hike and walking around the lake.

As you start to head towards Lake Superior, take a break at Lake Wissota, just outside of Chippewa Falls.

It’s a calm lake that is perfect for some time spent relaxing.

The last stop on this epic road trip through Wisconsin is Meyers Beach, on Lake Superior.

Rent a kayak and explore the Meyers Beach Caves, spend the afternoon swimming, or just walk along the sandy shore.

You will find the best beaches in Wisconsin!

Spend The Day In The Driftless Area Of Vernon County

• The Cashton Amish Community
• Wildcat Mountain State Park
• Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Natural Area

There are so many stops on this particular scenic drive through Wisconsin because it’s a small area and perfect for a day trip.

In total, if you check out all of these spots, you’ll only spend a little over an hour on the road. Which means you can take your time exploring each stop.

Start in Westby, which is a Norwegian community in Wisconsin that is fun to explore.

From there, take a short drive to see the Cashton Amish Community. You can find locally made Amish goods and experience a little bit of Amish culture.

After seeing the Amish, spend some time hiking at both the Wildcat Mountain State Park and Kickapoo Valley Reserve State Natural Area.

They are both super close to one another and have some beautiful landscapes and views.

Head a little west to enjoy the charming town of Hillsboro, which is the Czech Capital of Wisconsin.

Your next stops are La Farge and Viola. La Farge is a tiny village that has a great farmer’s market and apple orchard.

Viola is best known for its archeological historic site, the ancient Mound Park, and that is where you’ll end your day trip in the Driftless Area of Vernon County.

Lake Superior Highway

• Bayfield and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

To take this Wisconsin scenic drive along Lake Superior, I suggest starting in the town of Superior.

It’s just within the border of Wisconsin, across from Duluth in Minnesota. It’s America’s most inland port and there is plenty to do and see there.

From there, head to Cornucopia, which is the northernmost town in Wisconsin and home to the Lost Creek Falls, one of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin.

Continue driving along the shore of Lake Superior and stop in the town of Bayfield.

Not only is Bayfield a super cute town to explore, but it’s also how you get to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, one of the most beautiful national parks in the Midwest.

I highly suggest taking the time to tour the 22 tiny islands, their caves, and their shores.

Your last stop along the Lake Superior Highway is Ashland, Wisconsin.

Ashland is another charming town to explore that has a great main street full of shops, restaurants, and more.

Packing List For Your Wisconsin Road Trips

If you will be traveling, either by plane or car to the Midwest, here are some  tips on how to pack lightly.

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along during your getaway in Wisconsin.

This  unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID sleeves   are the perfect solution.

This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water whenever you want it.

Then this  collapsible silicone foldable water bottle  would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all. 

This   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great for holding snacks, sweaters, etc…

There are so many fun Wisconsin road trips to explore.

Wisconsin is a Midwest state that truly does have a little something for everyone.

From big cities, lakes, waterfalls, architectural marvels, national natural landmarks, and even botanical gardens, Wisconsin has it all.

I hope one of these itineraries inspires you to take a getaway in Wisconsin!

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• National Parks
• Tiny Houses

9 Fantastic Weekend Road Trips from Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Posted by Brittany Varano January 20, 2022 Updated June 02, 2022

We research and recommend travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ own experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

People from the Midwest be like, “Why would I fly? It’s only a 14-hour drive.”

A road trip is all about embracing the journey no matter how long it is, and nobody gets that more than Wisconsinites. So much so that weekend road trips are a favorite mode of travel for many locals. And while there’s no denying that Milwaukee — home to the 2021 NBA champs and world-class beer, BTW — already has a lot going for it, sometimes a weekend away is the best medicine.

This list weekend road trips from Milwaukee lead to exciting destinations across state lines, impressive local spots, and beautiful bodies of water — so here’s where to head next weekend.

Related Read:   9 Amazing Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin

1. Chicago, Illinois

Chicago’s sheer size and epic architecture never fails to wow visitors. Especially the picture perfect view of the river framed by towering skyscrapers along the Chicago Riverwalk. Not to mention iconic structures like the clear observation deck found at the Willis Tower and the reflective Could Gate in Millennium Park.

Chicago is also famous for its delectable local dishes. There’s no doubt that Chicago Red Hots and deep dish pizza need no introduction! While the title of best deep dish is up for debate, Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago deep dish staple, and Gene & Jude’s is the place to try a Chicago-style hot dog.

The Garfield Park Conservatory, Chicago’s Chinatown, and the city’s many historic gangster spots offer a more unique take on The Windy City. In the evenings, grab a nightcap at The Violet Hour , a speakeasy that’ll transport you back to the roaring 20s.

• Distance: 92 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 31 minutes

Related Read:   12 Stunning Chicago Vacation Rentals for a Lively Windy City Stay

2. Green Bay, Wisconsin

Green Bay is the mecca of cheesehead territory where Packers fans bleed green and gold, and Miller Lite flows freely. Catching a Packers game at Lambeau Field is a Wisconsin bucket list item that even Vikings or Bears fans can get behind (maybe). If you visit in the off-season, you can tour the historical field or experience a bit of Pack spirit at Titletown, an area with shops and cafes near Lambeau.

Football may be at the heart of Green Bay, but that’s not all this big city has to offer. Train buffs should visit the National Railroad Museum , one of the country’s largest and oldest museums dedicated to sharing train history. Other worthwhile things to do include the Green Bay Botanical Gardens and the Bay Beach Amusement Park & Wildlife Sanctuary along the shores of Lake Michigan.

• Distance: 118 miles
• Drive time without stops : 1 hour, 52 minutes

Related Read:   14 Best Things to Do in Wisconsin in Every Season

3. Indianapolis, Indiana

There’s not much that Hoosiers love more than food, beer, and sports. So much so that these are an integral part of the Indianapolis experience. The city hosts the Indy 500, after all — an epic event dubbed the largest sporting event in the world!

Sports lovers might also enjoy catching a baseball game at Victory Field or watching the Colts do their thing at the Lucas Oil Stadium. Other less sporty attractions include the Central Canal, The Indianapolis Museum of Art, and the popular Indy Brew Bus that takes you on a tour of local craft breweries.

When visiting Indianapolis, you better come hungry as there are many dishes you’ve gotta try. First up is the classic tenderloin sandwich, a Hoosier special that takes a breaded pork patty and grills it up to perfection. Try one for yourself at The Aristocrat Pub , a cozy English-inspired bar with over 50 beers on tap. For dessert, grab a slice of sugar cream pie, a local delicacy that’s considered the unofficial state pie.

• Distance: 279 miles
• Drive time without stops: 4 hours, 20 minutes

Related Read:   13 Best Airbnbs in Indiana for Unique Weekend Getaways

4. Door County, Wisconsin

Who needs Massachusetts, with the Cape Code of the Midwest conveniently nestled on the Door County Peninsula? A beloved vacation spot in Wisconsin, Door County has miles of sandy coastline, quaint little villages, and spectacular natural sights. Many come to experience the charm of small-town living in popular destinations like Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, and Ephraim. For city slickers, the county’s largest city, Sturgeon Bay, also makes for an excellent home base to explore the peninsula.

Some of the top Door County attractions include Whitefish Dunes and Peninsula State Park . Lighthouse hopping is another fantastic way to fill the weekend where you can learn about the Great Lakes’ unique Maritime history. For something a bit more lively, Door County’s wine scene will have you saying, sip, sip hooray! The Door Peninsula Winery is one of the most recognizable, but another top pick includes Harbor Ridge Winery.

• Distance: 154 miles
• Drive time without stops: 2 hours, 19 minutes

Related Read:   12 Best Cabin Rentals in Door County, Wisconsin

5. Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

The Wisconsin Dells is the place to go for water fun under the sun. Ideal for families, friend trips, and even romantic getaways, Wisconsin’s Waterpark Capital of the World lives up to the hype. Home to over 20 different waterpark resorts both indoor and out, you have many options. But top resorts like Noah’s Ark , The Kalahari, and the Great Wolf Lodge take the cake in the Dells.

Outside of waterparks, this part of the state is also known for its uniquely beautiful landscape. Named after the nooks and crannies carved around the Wisconsin River, nature lovers can get out and hike , kayak, or bike. Taking a tour aboard a Wisconsin Duck , a vehicle that can travel both land and water, is another fabulous way to admire natural landmarks like Witches Gulch and Lake Delton. Top eats in the Dells include the mouthwatering burger from Monk’s and the home-style dishes at Ishnala Supper Club on Mirror Lake.

• Distance: 123 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 55 minutes

Related Read:   12 Best Cabin Rentals Near Wisconsin Dells, WI

6. Saugatuck, Michigan

Saugatuck is a charming beach town that offers one of the best places to relax on the shores of Lake Michigan not far from Milwaukee. This small town’s best coastal spots are Oval Beach and the Saugatuck Dunes State Park . Hiking up the 303 steps to the top of Mount Baldhead is a rite of passage when visiting Saugatuck. However, your effort is rewarded with pretty views of the city and surrounding waters of the Great Lake.

While sand and sun are some of the main draws to Saugatuck, this Michigan getaway also has boutique shopping and highly-rated restaurants. Be sure to make time to visit the famous Pennyroyal Cafe & Provisions led by the Food Network’s Chopped winner Chef Missy Corey. The Saugatuck Brewing Company also offers the unique opportunity to brew your own beer.

• Distance: 239 miles
• Drive time without stops: 3 hours, 42 minutes

Related Read:   9 Amazing Places to See Fall Colors in Michigan

7. Minneapolis, Minnesota

Minnesota may be Wisconsin’s rival, but there’s no denying that the bustling city streets of Minneapolis are jam-packed with tons of fun things to do. And although the journey from Milwaukee is a bit far, it’s well worth the effort thanks to Minneapolis’ top attractions. One of the most notable being the Mall of America , the largest shopping mall in the U.S. where you can shop ’til you drop and fill the day with rides, games, and more.

Other incredible things to do include visiting the Walker Art Center and exploring Minnehaha Park , famous for its 53-foot tall waterfall. Snapping a photo with the eye-catching “Spoonbridge and Cherry” sculpture is also a must, found in the Minneapolis Sculpture Garden. When your stomach begins to rumble, head over to Matt’s Bar , home of the Jucy Lucy, a cheese-stuffed burger, and one of the best restaurants in Minneapolis.

• Distance: 337 miles
• Drive time without stops: 5 hours, 3 minutes

Related Read:   10 of the Most Unique Places to Stay in Minnesota

8. Madison, Wisconsin

As the state Capitol, Madison is an obvious pick as a classic weekend road trip from Milwaukee. Madison is known for its vibrant college atmosphere, fantastic food scene, and historical landmarks. No trip to Madtown would be complete without stopping inside the grand State Capitol building to marvel at the towering columns, marble surfaces, and the city view from atop the observation deck.

Summertime visitors should also stop by the Dane County Farmers Market, held around the Capitol Square every Saturday. With squeaky cheese and delicious baked goods on offer, you’re sure to walk away stuffed and satisfied. Other iconic things to do in Madison include grabbing a pitcher on the Union Terrace, walking to the city’s Picnic Point for skyline views, and stopping by the Old Fashioned for fried cheese curds, and well, an old fashioned.

• Distance: 80 miles
• Drive time without stops: 1 hour, 21 minutes

Related Read:  11 Best Things to Do in Madison, Wisconsin

9. Any Wisconsin State Park

Not all weekend road trips from Milwaukee need to lead to big cities. For something a little more scenic, consider venturing out to any one of Wisconsin’s best state parks for a bit of fresh air. About two hours to the west, pitch your tent in Devil’s Lake State Park , a popular destination with three campgrounds , lake fun, and plenty of exciting hiking.

If you’re up for a bit of a drive, Copper Falls State Park showcases some of Wisconsin’s tallest waterfalls as well as striking gorges formed from ancient lava. Come for the hiking, camping, swimming, and a sense of being off the grid. This beautiful state park is about five and a half hours from Milwaukee, in Ashland County

For something closer to home, Kohler-Andrae State Park is paradise in the summertime. The park preserves Lake Michigan’s beautiful sand dunes and stretches of coast. It also features family-friendly campsites and offers a beach escape without traveling too far from home.

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Seen in: Destinations , Midwest , Road Trips , Wisconsin

Posted by Brittany Varano

Brittany is a freelance travel writer and avid photographer with a love of hiking and nature. Originally from Wisconsin, she fell in love with travel blogging after living and teaching English in South Korea. She’s now location independent and enjoys slow travel to new and exciting places.

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Top 5 road trips in and around the great state of Wisconsin

Apr 27, 2022 • 6 min read

Home to Harley Davidson, Wisconsin is the perfect state for that dream road trip © Adam Hester / Getty Images

Wisconsin was made for road trips. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Wisconsin experience focused on visiting the best craft breweries and farm fresh cheese stands or you’re looking to spend time hiking, biking and wildlife watching, the Badger State won’t disappoint.

The roads here are generally well-paved and well-marked. Should you get lost, just pull into a gas station or bait and tackle shop and a friendly face will happily help you get re-oriented. And while there’s plenty to do within Wisconsin, its central location in the heart of the Midwest means it’s also a great place to start (or end) a road trip that visits other must-see states like Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois and Indiana.

The ultimate Wisconsin road trip

Best road trip to sample a bit of what wisconsin has to offer.

Milwaukee-Bayfield; 441 miles (710km)

Start out in Wisconsin’s largest city, where you can hang out at Milwaukee’s best beaches or indulge in “big city” entertainment and nightlife before making your way to the tiny towns in the northern part of the state. And while you could easily do the drive in a day, you’ll want to allow about a week so you can explore the unique food and bike culture in Madison , go for a riverboat tour in Wisconsin Dells, and visit a winery in Eau Claire before reaching the southern shore of Lake Superior.

When you arrive in Bayfield, hiking is a great option year-round but if you visit in the summer, be sure to kayak to the lakeshore’s famous sea caves. Come winter, if the ice freezes over sufficiently, you can even hike over Lake Superior to reach the caves.

Sample Wisconsin’s famous beer and cheese

Best road trip for food and drink enthusiasts.

Kenosha-Madison; 115 miles (185km)

Wisconsin is known for two things: good beer and great cheese. And while you can find both pretty much anywhere in the state, you’ll find the most options along this route, which could be modified as a long day trip or stretched out to a weekend road trip. Start out in Kenosha and visit the gigantic Mars Cheese Castle (conveniently located right on the highway) and the Kenosha Brewing Company, which is located at the site of the first post-Prohibition brew pub in the Midwest.

Make your way to Milwaukee , where the West Allis Cheese and Sausage Shoppe and Wisconsin Cheese Mart are your go-to spots for divine dairy. Beer lovers have a seemingly endless number of breweries to visit, including Lakefront Brewery, Miller Brewing, MobCraft, Milwaukee Brewing Company, and Pabst Brewery – all of which offer brewery tours. When you arrive in Madison , enter cheese heaven at downtown’s Fromagination then have your pick of breweries: LGBTQIA+- and female-owned Giant Jones Brewing Company, gluten-free ALT Brew, and the appropriately named Capital Brewery, which is one of the oldest craft breweries in the country.

Fall in love with fall foliage

Best road trip for leaf peeping.

Wisconsin Dells-Bayfield; 294 miles (473km)

Wisconsin is jam packed with state parks and forests so you’ll find fabulous fall foliage all over the state but if you don’t have time to explore every corner of the state, this is the route for you.

Start off in the waterpark capital of the country, Wisconsin Dells, where leaf peeping is best enjoyed in nearby Mirror Lake State Park and Devil’s Lake State Park. For a different vantage point, take an Upper Dells riverboat tour , where brilliant fall colors can be enjoyed alongside the region’s iconic sandstone formations.

Drive north through the stunning Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and along tree-lined country roads that will bring you to the waterfront town of Bayfield. While tremendous leaf peeping is available just by driving around the area, it’s worth planning some hikes in and around the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. If you have a few more days, also consider driving up to the Door County peninsula, in the “Wisconsin’s thumb” region.

The Quintessential Midwestern road trip

Best road trip to experience the midwest at its finest.

Milwaukee-Detroit; 566 miles (911km)

Not only is the great state of Wisconsin sufficiently diverse and delightful in its own right, it’s also conveniently located smack dab in the middle of the Midwest, making Milwaukee to Detroit one of the best road trips that start in Wisconsin. If you’re making your way from the west, you could also start in another rockstar Midwestern city, Minneapolis . If beginning in Wisconsin, start off with these 10 things to do in Milwaukee ; visit Chicago’s beloved “Bean” sculpture in Millennium Park ; and explore the Kurt Vonnegut Museum in Indianapolis before arriving in the country’s former capital of cars, Detroit . Technically, the drive could be completed in about nine hours but you’ll want to allow at least a few days in each destination to get to know it a bit.

You could also start this trip in Minneapolis if you have a few extra days and get to know another great Midwestern city. 

The Cranberry Highway road trip

Best road trip for experiencing wisconsin cranberry culture.

Wisconsin Rapids-Warrens; 47 miles (76km)

Welcome to the cranberry capital of the world, Central Wisconsin. This part of the state claims nearly 60% of the entire country’s cranberry production and harvest season is typically September and October, making early fall the best time to visit.

The region even has an official 50-mile Cranberry Highway but you’ll find the most to see and do in the two cities bookmarking the route, Warrens and Wisconsin Rapids. Pop into the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center in Warrens, snag a picture at the Historic Marker 86 in Cranmoor, then visit the South Wood County Historical Museum in Wisconsin Rapids to learn how the fruit was initially harvested by Native Americans. While you’re in the area, head for a tour at the 100-year-old Rooted in Red cranberry farm, where you can even jump into the bog.

Explore Wisconsin’s Great River Road

Best motorcycle road trip.

Prescott-Kieler; 250 miles (402km)

Harley Davidson is from Milwaukee so motorcycle culture runs deep throughout the entire state. Some of the best motorcycle excursions in Wisconsin can be found around the state’s Driftless Area, where rustic roadways intersect with grand waterways like the mighty Mississippi River. The Driftless Area is known for a mixture of dense forests, restored prairies and countless lakes and wetlands (which can be great for wildlife watching).

This particular route is special because it takes you along the state’s only National Scenic Byway. The 250-mile Wisconsin Great River Road links the people, resources and history of 33 small river towns, with plenty of places to overnight and have a look around. Note that Google Maps will automatically route you along a more direct, inland path from Prescott to Kieler but for the best scenery, just follow the Mississippi River.

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Best Wisconsin Road Trips

Serene or bustling? Day trip or weekend getaway? The beauty of a Wisconsin road trip is that your options are plentiful. Pack up the car and discover the state's scenic splendor along these routes.

Katy is a lifestyle journalist who splits her time between Nebraska, Minnesota, and Wisconsin. As a born-and-bred Midwesterner, she is passionate about covering her home region. Besides Midwest Living, Katy's work has appeared in Travel+Leisure, Reader's Digest, Departures, Martha Stewart Living, and more. Follow her on instagram for worldly travels, lots of wine, and tons of Baby Bob content.

Wisconsin road trips almost inevitably lead to the water—Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, the Mississippi River or one of the many lakes that dot the state. Savor the sweet abundance of scenic bluffs, dense forests, beaches and inviting towns along these water-focused routes, and discover a few surprises along the way.

Great River Road National Scenic Byway

Wisconsin's 250-mile stretch of the Great River Road leads to small Mississippi River towns with hiking, fishing, birding, shopping and dining with a view. In Alma, for instance, head to Buena Vista Park for great views of the Mississippi, and sample comfort food and live music at Pier 4 Cafe. Watch for eagles soaring along the bluffs (and if you like, take the bridge across the river to Wabasha, Minnesota, where you can learn more about the majestic birds at the National Eagle Center ).

Marinette County Waterfall Tour

Wisconsin's Marinette County Waterfall Tour is a showstopper year-round, especially during autumn when the wild reaches of northern Wisconsin transform into a dazzling patchwork of color. This snaking, 125-mile route features 15 tranquil waterfalls, many of which are in storybook settings with arched bridges and meandering hiking trails (look for the signature blue waterfall tour signs or use a downloadable map ). Stretch your legs and make the most of your time in this region by paddling its crystal-clear rivers, picnicking, and wildlife-spotting along its forested parks.

Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive

This 115-mile route from Elkhart Lake to Whitewater Lake traverses the Southern and Northern units of Kettle Moraine State Forest. The drive runs by glacial landforms that define the area, with plenty of opportunities to explore wetlands, lakes, moraines, potholes and more formed thousands of years ago by retreating glaciers. It's a geology enthusiast's dream, but it also appeals to anyone who wants to experience the ethereal beauty of the state. Note: the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive includes a number of turns; drivers should watch for the green acorn signs or follow the turn-by-turn instructions .

Door County Coastal National Scenic Byway

This 66-mile loop showcases Lake Michigan and Green Bay at its finest (the body of water, not Packer Central). With its clapboard cottages and miles of craggy shoreline, Door County draws travelers from all over to experience a taste of New England in Wisconsin; the area has been called the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Highlights include commercial center Fish Creek, art haven Egg Harbor and Scandi-central Sister Bay.

Lower Wisconsin River Scenic Byway

Known as the Lower Wisconsin River Road Scenic Byway , Highway 60 from Lodi to Prairie du Chien winds through rolling hills untouched by glaciers in the Driftless Region and connects to Wisconsin's Great River Road. Along the way, Wollersheim Winery and Distillery , the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and St. Feriole Island introduce visitors to the land and its bounty. Near Spring Green, enjoy a detour to take in the architectural wonders of Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin .

Nicolet-Wolf River Scenic Byway

Encircled by the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the 145-mile Nicolet-Wolf River Scenic Byway introduces visitors to a true "Up North" experience. Ed's Lake National Recreation Trail is a favorite stop for hiking and biking in warmer months and for Nordic skiing in winter. You can also explore Native American heritage in this area, with spots such as the Wabeno Logging Museum and the Forest County Potawatomi Community Cultural Center and Museum.

Lake Superior National Scenic Byway

The Lake Superior National Scenic Byway has earned a reputation as a bucket-list Midwest road trip, tracing Lake Superior's edge along the northernmost piece of the state. Don't miss Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Copper Crow , the nation's first Native American-owned distillery . Stay at the wellness-focused Wild Rice Retreat in Bayfield to lengthen this 70-mile trip.

The Wisconsin River/ Baraboo Hills Scenic Drive

From Lodi, this 2-plus-hour route passes through Gibraltar Rock State Natural Area and Devil's Lake State Park, which both offer stunning hikes with unique rock formations. Don't miss Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area, a spectacular gorge near Devil's Lake, Wisconsin's most-visited state park. The Wisconsin River / Baraboo Hills Scenic Drive also includes a free car ferry over the river and access to the family-favorite Wisconsin Dells (aka the waterpark capital of the world). Road trippers can also find an Ice Age National Scenic Trail segment in this area.

Lake Michigan Maritime Tour

The Lake Michigan Maritime Tour will quench your thirst for lake experiences; the route traces more than 40 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, allowing you to explore its plentiful small fishing villages and shimmering water views along State Highway 42 before entering Door County. When you reach Algoma, consider stopping at Wisconsin's oldest winery, von Stiehl , for a hard cider pressed from local apples, or meander along the Crescent Beach Boardwalk for a breath of fresh air.

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18 Best Road Trips in Wisconsin: A Complete Guide to Fun Day Trips in Wisconsin

Written by joseph hoell, business owner, updated on: june 21, 2023.

Can you feel it? The irresistible lure of the open road, beckoning you to shrug off the chains of your daily routines and discover the magic that lies beyond. Your heart craves fresh vistas, thrilling adventures, and unforgettable memories. It’s a call to wanderlust that you can’t dismiss—and shouldn’t! So, load up your vehicle, round up your friends and family, and get ready to embrace the call of our guide to the best road trips in Wisconsin — a state blessed with scenic splendor, cultural richness, and an abundance of… cheese, cheese, and more cheese!

Wisconsin is often an uncharted treasure in the Midwest for the avid traveler, a splendid secret waiting to be discovered. It’s where beautiful lush forests meet pristine lakes, where charming small towns rich in history coexist with vibrant cities teeming with art and life. However, we’re not just offering you your typical Wisconsin travel guide. Instead, we’re handing you a key to Wisconsin’s hidden treasures—an exclusive list of 18 Essential Road Trips that will lead you on an adventure into the heart of the state’s unmistakable allure.

Together, let’s journey across Wisconsin’s awe-inspiring landscapes, each trip custom-designed to cater to a variety of interests and preferences. Are you a nature lover? A sucker for architectural grandeur? A sports enthusiast? A family with kids? Or a couple in search of a romantic retreat? No matter what you’re looking for Wisconsin has the ideal road trip itinerary crafted just for you. Buckle up, and let’s set off on this thrilling escapade!

Exploring Hidden Treasures: Top Wisconsin Road Trip Destinations Unveiled

As we kick off this journey, let’s dive right into what makes Wisconsin so special. You’ll see its diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and lively cities. No matter if you’re an outdoor lover, a history geek, an adventure seeker, or an art enthusiast, there’s something for you. We’re going to unpack each destination, bringing you the highlights and unique features. So, buckle up, it’s time to embark on this unforgettable journey through Wisconsin’s top road trip destinations. Ready to discover the hidden gems of the Badger State? Let’s hit the road!

Exploring the Enchantment of Door County: The Midwest’s Premier Coastal Road Trip

Let yourself indulge in the soothing sensation of sun-warmed sand beneath your feet, walking alongside a serene shoreline peppered with charming lighthouses and idyllic villages, all while basking in the breathtaking vista of over 300 miles of Lake Michigan’s coastline. Welcome to the allure of Door County , a jewel among Wisconsin’s top road trip destinations.

Unraveling Door County’s Landscape and Allure

Frequently likened to the romantic escape of Cape Cod, Door County paints a scenic picture in eastern Wisconsin. The peninsula is sandwiched serenely between the calm of Green Bay to the west and the majestic Lake Michigan to the east. This Midwest gem attracts road trippers with its relaxing appeal and the striking natural beauty that Wisconsin is renowned for.

Door County’s Inviting Attractions

Packed to the brim with attractive sights and notable Wisconsin landmarks, Door County is an explorer’s dream come true.

• Walk through the historic Cana Island Lighthouse , a beacon dating back to 1869.
• Take a leisurely stroll through the charming village of Fish Creek , an embodiment of small-town Wisconsin charm.
• The Francis Hardy Gallery is a paradise for art enthusiasts.
• The Door County Maritime Museum serves as a gateway into the region’s rich maritime history.

Activities Around Door County

From adrenaline-inducing outdoor pursuits to relaxing activities, Door County presents the epitome of Wisconsin road trip activities. Here are some highlights:

• Hiking and Biking: Door County, with its five state parks and numerous local trails, is a dream destination for hiking and mountain biking.
• Boating and Fishing: Enjoy exceptional opportunities for boating and fishing , thanks to the peninsula’s convenient access to Lake Michigan, Green Bay, and several inland lakes and streams.
• Arts and Culture: Experience Door County’s thriving art scene, which includes galleries , theaters, and music festivals.
• Winery Tours: Indulge in local wineries’ offerings and taste award-winning wines, including Door County’s famous Montmorency cherry wine .
• Door County Coastal Byway: Travel a 66-mile scenic route that showcases diverse landscapes, iconic lighthouses, and historic maritime towns.

Cuisine and Local Delicacies

The culinary scene in Door County presents a venture into Wisconsin’s gastronomic delights. Relish in fresh-caught fish, farm-to-table produce, and the celebrated Door County fish boil —a traditional Scandinavian feast embodying the flavors of Wisconsin. Don’t forget to taste the famous cherry pie , made from locally harvested cherries!

Best Time to Visit Door County

While Door County offers year-round charm, the summer months of June through August provide the most accommodating weather for outdoor activities. Fall, with its vibrant foliage, is another fantastic season to experience the best scenery Wisconsin has to offer.

Insider Tips for Your Door County Road Trip

• Consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowd, particularly during the summer high season.
• Don’t miss out on Door County’s famous cherry products, from cherry pie to cherry wine.

Who is Door County Good For

Door County caters to families seeking a blend of education and fun, couples looking for a romantic Midwest getaway, nature enthusiasts attracted to Wisconsin’s landscapes, and art lovers eager to explore local talent. It’s a microcosm of Wisconsin’s diverse appeal, making it an essential stop on your Wisconsin road trip itinerary.

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Venturing into Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Wisconsin’s Northern Gem on Lake Superior

Envision a road trip leading you to a spellbinding destination where time gracefully slows down. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore , featuring 21 islands dispersed across the crystalline waters of Lake Superior , embodies such a destination. It’s an unspoiled Wisconsin utopia, affording you the opportunity to immerse in and relish nature in its purest form.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Unveiled

Nestled in the northernmost region of Wisconsin, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore comprises a group of 21 islands and a shoreline that spans over 69,000 acres on Lake Superior. The islands are home to awe-inspiring landscapes, from historical lighthouses and sea caves to captivating beaches and old-growth remnant forests. This Wisconsin destination invites adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Must-See Attractions in Apostle Islands

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is more than just an attractive natural reserve—it’s a living embodiment of Wisconsin’s rich history and culture:

• Historic Lighthouses: The Apostle Islands host six distinct lighthouses , each carrying its unique allure, history, and architecture. Lighthouse enthusiasts and history aficionados will appreciate the rare opportunity to witness so many in one location.
• Sea Caves: The spectacular sea caves of Apostle Islands , accessible by boat in the summer and by foot in the winter, are geological wonders that demand a visit.
• Hiking Trails: With over 50 miles of well-maintained hiking trails on the islands, hiking is a favorite activity among visitors.

Activities at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

The range of activities at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore mirrors the islands’ diversity. Here are a few highlights:

• Kayaking : Paddle around the islands and through the sea caves in a kayak to witness the awe-inspiring sandstone formations up close.
• Hiking : Explore the islands on foot and immerse yourself in their rich biodiversity. There’s no better place for hiking in Wisconsin!
• Camping : With campsites on 19 of the islands, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is an excellent spot for wilderness camping in Wisconsin.
• Birdwatching : Over 240 species make the islands a birdwatcher’s haven.

Local Cuisine

Savor the flavors of Wisconsin by indulging in fresh-caught fish from Lake Superior, a longtime staple of local cuisine. The regional restaurants also serve a plethora of dishes featuring Wisconsin cheese, a gastronomic delight not to be missed.

When to Visit Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

While the Apostle Islands are an all-year-round beauty, your best time to visit depends on your preferred activities. Summer and early fall are ideal for kayaking, hiking, and camping, whereas winter provides a chance to marvel at the extraordinary ice caves.

Insider Tips for Your Apostle Islands Road Trip

• Always verify the weather and sea conditions before setting out on any boating or kayaking adventure.
• Winter visits necessitate careful planning due to unpredictable weather conditions and limited accessibility.

Who is Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Good For

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, with its varied offerings, is an indispensable stop for outdoor enthusiasts, thrill-seekers, nature aficionados, and history buffs. Whether planning a family vacation, a solo adventure, or a romantic retreat, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a Wisconsin road trip destination that caters to all.

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The House on the Rock: A Journey into a Whimsical World of Oddities and Artistry

The House on the Rock is no ordinary tourist destination. It’s an enchanting, slightly eccentric wonderland boasting a medley of curiosities that are bound to mesmerize. If you’re drawn to the peculiar, the fanciful, and the supremely unique, this unmissable Wisconsin attraction should top your list.

Delving into The House on the Rock

Nestled atop a rock column amidst the scenic Wyoming Valley, The House on the Rock stands as a testament to unconventional architecture and a sensory adventure. Brainchild of Alex Jordan Jr., this attraction offers a fascinating peek into the inventive and artistic psyche of its creator.

Experiencing The House on the Rock

The House on the Rock is a labyrinth of surreal rooms, streets, shops, and gardens that unfurls over three distinct tours. Here are some standouts:

The Infinity Room : This marvel defies gravity, jutting 218 feet out over the picturesque valley without any visible support.

World’s Largest Carousel : A sparkling merry-go-round boasting over 20,000 lights and 269 creatures.

The Music of Yesterday : A cache of automated music machines, each playing charming tunes from days gone by.

Streets of Yesterday : A quiet, immersive re-creation of an early 20th-century American town.

Feasting at The House on the Rock

After delving into this fascinating spectacle, replenish your energy at one of the on-site dining establishments. The culinary offerings are as diverse as the exhibits themselves, featuring a café, a coffee shop, and even a fudge counter for those with a sweet craving.

Best Season to Visit

While The House on the Rock welcomes visitors year-round, the full tour is accessible only from May through November.

Smart Tips for Your Visit

Be ready for plenty of walking! Comfortable shoes are a must, and don’t forget to take periodic breaks.

Some sections of the tour can be quite dim, so consider bringing a flashlight.

Who Should Venture into The House on the Rock?

The House on the Rock is a haven for those drawn to unique and offbeat experiences. It’s a gold mine for collectors, history enthusiasts, and anyone blessed with a rich imagination. Its enticing blend of mystery and allure makes it an irresistible destination for explorers of all ages.

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Taliesin in Spring Green: Delving into the World of Architectural Brilliance

Envisage a Wisconsin road trip that presents not only picturesque landscapes but also reveals the innovative mind of the globally acclaimed architect, Frank Lloyd Wright . That’s the exceptional experience you will encounter when you visit Taliesin in Spring Green, Wright’s personal residence and architectural gem.

Discovering Taliesin in Spring Green

Taliesin, tucked within the verdant, undulating hills of Spring Green , served as Frank Lloyd Wright’s summer abode. Constructed in 1911, this 800-acre estate showcases the prominent Prairie School design, blending architecture and landscape in a harmonious and transformative way.

Highlights of the Taliesin Estate

The Taliesin estate is beyond just Wright’s home—it’s a broad property featuring multiple structures, each reflecting the distinctive style of this architectural virtuoso:

• Hillside Home School : The location of Wright’s architectural school.
• Midway Farm : An embodiment of Wright’s agricultural concepts.
• Romeo and Juliet Windmill : The oldest surviving Wright-designed edifice on the property.

Engaging Activities at Taliesin

Visitors at Taliesin can indulge in a variety of fascinating activities:

• Guided Tours : Gain insights into Frank Lloyd Wright’s life, work, and architectural philosophy.
• Nature Walks : Discover the extensive grounds and the captivating Wisconsin landscape that inspired Wright.
• Cultural Events : Participate in concerts, theatrical performances, and other cultural gatherings on the premises.

While touring Taliesin, relish the local culinary scene. Spring Green boasts a dynamic food culture, offering everything from farm-to-table restaurants to charming cafés, serving a true taste of Wisconsin.

Best Time to Visit Taliesin

Taliesin is open for public visits from May through October, with a variety of tour options available. As it involves both indoor and outdoor exploration, checking the weather prior to your visit is advisable.

Insider Tips for Your Taliesin Road Trip

• Pre-book your tour, as they tend to fill up during peak season.
• Dress comfortably and be prepared for substantial walking.

Who Should Visit Taliesin

Taliesin in Spring Green is a must-see for admirers of architecture, history, or Frank Lloyd Wright’s work. It’s an excellent destination for couples, families, or solo travelers seeking a unique and enriching experience on their Wisconsin road trip. This iconic site seamlessly fuses architecture and nature in a remarkable way that will undoubtedly inspire and captivate.

Bayfield: Embrace Nature’s Majesty and Thrilling Adventures

As you map out your Wisconsin road trip, if you’re seeking a destination that seamlessly blends natural splendor, a rich heritage, and thrilling outdoor pursuits, look no further than Bayfield . Known as the stepping stone to the Apostle Islands, this charming harbor town offers an abundance of treasures.

An Overview of Bayfield

Situated on the banks of Lake Superior, Bayfield may be Wisconsin’s smallest city, but it punches above its weight in terms of charm and allure. Full of character and natural splendor, this town features charming shops, historic inns, and plentiful fruit orchards. However, the centerpiece of Bayfield is undoubtedly the access it provides to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

Adventuring in the Apostle Islands

Bayfield stands as the principal point of departure for exploration of the Apostle Islands, a collection of 21 islands renowned for their steep cliffs, mesmerizing sea caves, timeless lighthouses, and sandy beaches. Discover these islands’ beauty through kayaking, ferry travel, or by embarking on a guided boat tour.

Engaging Activities in and Around Bayfield

Bayfield and the surrounding areas offer a host of activities to satisfy the outdoor adventurer:

• Hiking and Biking : Experience breathtaking views of Lake Superior and the islands through numerous scenic trails.
• Water Sports : Engage in aquatic activities like kayaking , paddleboarding , or sailing in the clear, blue waters.
• Apple Picking : Participate in the local tradition of apple picking at nearby orchards during the fall season.

Local Culinary Scene

In Bayfield, dining is as delightful an experience as the views. Fresh catches from Lake Superior, locally-sourced ingredients, and the famous Bayfield apple pies are culinary highlights not to be missed.

Best Time to Visit Bayfield

While Bayfield offers year-round beauty, the warmer months from May through October are especially idyllic for outdoor activities and exploration of the Apostle Islands.

Insider Tips for Your Bayfield Road Trip

• Plan your visit to coincide with the Bayfield Apple Festival in October for a unique cultural experience.
• Remember to pack a good pair of hiking shoes and your swimwear.

Who is Bayfield Perfect For?

Bayfield is an ideal destination for those with a love for outdoor adventures and natural beauty. It’s an excellent choice for families aiming to create memorable experiences, couples seeking a romantic escape amidst serene landscapes, or solo explorers seeking an active, visually appealing retreat. The combination of small-town charm and abundant natural wonders make Bayfield an extraordinary stop on your Wisconsin road trip.

Devil’s Lake State Park: Unleash Your Spirit of Adventure in Wisconsin’s Playground

Among the glittering jewels of Wisconsin’s state park system, Devil’s Lake State Park shines bright. This cherished natural reserve has won the hearts of locals and tourists alike. If you’re an avid nature lover and outdoor enthusiast, this destination should be a top choice on your Wisconsin road trip itinerary.

Exploring the Marvels of Devil’s Lake State Park

Cradled in the Baraboo Range in eastern Wisconsin, Devil’s Lake State Park serves as an oasis for those who thrive in the wilderness. The park’s centerpiece is an enchanting 360-acre lake, enveloped by quartzite bluffs that tower about 500 feet high. With over 29 miles of hiking trails, picturesque picnic spots, and abundant wildlife, it’s clear why this park is an essential visit.

A Wealth of Outdoor Activities

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a casual nature lover, Devil’s Lake State Park provides a plethora of activities:

• Hiking: The park offers a vast range of hiking trails , from relaxed lakeside walks to challenging cliffside treks.
• Swimming and Boating: Dive into the refreshing lake for a swim , or enjoy kayaking, boating and stand-up paddleboarding activities.
• Climbing: The park’s quartzite cliffs lure rock climbers from across the Midwest.
• Camping: The park features family camping and group campsites, where you can nestle under the stars, amplifying your outdoor experience.
• Birdwatching: Don’t forget your binoculars! Over 100 species of birds have been spotted within the park.

Satisfying Your Appetite

Pack a picnic to enjoy against the backdrop of splendid views. For a more conventional dining experience, the North Shore Chateau provides a range of enticing dishes.

When to Visit Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park welcomes visitors year-round. Each season unveils a unique experience, from summer swims and autumn foliage hikes to snowshoeing in winter.

Insider Tips for Your Visit

• The park can get crowded on weekends. For a more serene experience, aim to visit on weekdays or arrive early.
• Don’t forget your camera! The vistas from the bluffs are awe-inspiring.

Who Will Enjoy Devil’s Lake State Park?

Devil’s Lake State Park is an Eden for those who appreciate natural splendor and outdoor adventures. It’s a prime spot for family outings, exciting adventures with friends, or tranquil solo trips. This destination offers a truly unique Wisconsin experience, making it an unmissable stop on your road trip.

Wisconsin Dells: The Unparalleled Hub of Aquatic Adventure and Natural Beauty

Hold on tight, thrill-seekers, nature aficionados, and family fun lovers – Wisconsin Dells , proudly declared as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” is here to take you on an unforgettable ride of exhilarating activities amidst splendid natural landscapes. It’s not all about water slides and lazy rivers; the Dells also offer some of Wisconsin’s most breathtaking natural vistas.

Getting to Know Wisconsin Dells

Situated in south-central Wisconsin, this vibrant city is a trove of indoor and outdoor waterparks , making it a desirable destination throughout the year. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Whether it’s ziplining , horseback riding , golfing , or river cruising, Wisconsin Dells provides a myriad of activities that promise to keep everyone entertained.

The Splashy Spectacle of Waterparks

At the heart of Wisconsin Dells’ acclaim are its state-of-the-art waterparks. Here’s a snapshot of what you can expect:

• Noah’s Ark : Known as America’s largest waterpark, this aquatic paradise boasts over 50 water slides, a duo of wave pools, and numerous lazy rivers.
• Kalahari Resort : This African-themed resort features an extensive indoor waterpark and an equally exciting outdoor waterpark.
• Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park : This venue offers both aquatic and terrestrial entertainment with a diverse range of water attractions and roller coasters.

The Natural Grandeur of Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells also offers an array of natural splendors:

• Dells of the Wisconsin River : Opt for a boat tour to marvel at the magnificent sandstone cliffs that flank the Wisconsin River.
• Mirror Lake State Park : Escape the hustle and bustle and head to this serene haven, known for its tranquil, ‘mirror-like’ lake.
• Rocky Arbor State Park : With hiking trails meandering through a picturesque pine and oak forest, this park is perfect for a family outing.

When to Visit Wisconsin Dells

Although the indoor parks make Wisconsin Dells a destination for all seasons, summer months (June through August) promise the most comprehensive experience.

Handy Tips for Your Visit

• Plan in advance and secure your accommodations early, especially during the summer.
• Keep an eye out for deals and packages that can help you save on admission to various attractions.

Who Would Enjoy Wisconsin Dells?

Wisconsin Dells is a paradise for families, adrenaline junkies, and nature lovers. With its enchanting blend of adventure and natural beauty, it’s a destination that promises fun and creates enduring memories for people of all ages.

Madeline Island: Where Natural Splendor Meets Historical Richness

Welcome to Madeline Island

Picture an idyllic place where time gracefully decelerates, where captivating landscapes intertwine with an abundant history palpable in every nook and corner. This is Madeline Island for you – the largest among the Apostle Islands and an idyllic retreat for history enthusiasts and nature aficionados alike.

An Expedition to Madeline Island

Tucked in Lake Superior in the northern part of Wisconsin, Madeline Island is a true gem that radiates tranquility with its serene Big Bay State Park and the insightful Madeline Island Museum . A ferry ride from the town of Bayfield escorts you to this enchanting realm where history and nature are beautifully intertwined.

Discovering the Natural Jewels

The island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Here’s a glimpse of the treasures that await you:

• Big Bay State Park : This is home to a pristine sandy beach, a scenic boardwalk, and several hiking trails offering panoramic views of the lake.
• Big Bay Town Park : A perfect destination for picnics, swimming, and kayaking, this park is adorned with another delightful beach.
• Hiking and Biking: The island prides itself on numerous hiking trails that let you unravel its alluring landscapes at your own rhythm.

Delving into History and Culture

The Madeline Island Museum is a cornucopia of knowledge about the island’s vibrant history and culture. It houses exhibits about the early Ojibwe inhabitants, French fur traders, American settlers, and loggers.

Savoring the Local Charm

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore the island’s delightful local shops, eateries, and art galleries in La Pointe .

When to Visit Madeline Island

Madeline Island is best visited during the summer months (June to August) when the weather is idyllic for outdoor adventures.

Useful Tips for Your Visit

• Ensure to check the ferry schedule for timings.
• Pack essentials such as snacks, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

Who is Madeline Island Good For?

Madeline Island is a perfect road trip destination for history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a serene escape from the urban frenzy. Offering a unique amalgamation of tranquil landscapes, engaging activities, and rich history, it promises to etch a lasting impression on its visitors.

Lake Geneva: A Haven of Leisure and Adventure by the Lake

Imagine leisurely cruising on a sparkling lake, marveling at majestic estates, and indulging in exhilarating watersports in summer or ice fishing in the winter. Welcome to Lake Geneva – a true year-round paradise that encapsulates fun, tranquility, and adventure.

The Magic of Lake Geneva

This enchanting city, renowned for its 21-mile shore path encircling the entire lake, offers awe-inspiring views of historical and opulent mansions complemented by the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. Its picturesque downtown is brimming with quaint boutiques and charming eateries.

Activities and Attractions

Here are a few must-experience highlights in Lake Geneva:

• Boat Tours: Uncover the lake’s splendor and listen to intriguing tales about the grand estates adorning the shoreline.
• Watersports: From paddleboarding and kayaking to jet-skiing, adventure enthusiasts will adore the plethora of watersport options during summer.
• Ice-Fishing: Come winter, the frozen lake morphs into a hub for fishing enthusiasts.
• Hiking Trails: Traverse the area’s natural magnificence via its numerous hiking trails.

Gastronomic Delights

From exquisite lakefront dining experiences to cozy cafés, Lake Geneva’s culinary scene is a feast for every food lover.

When to Visit Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is a versatile destination that unfolds its unique charm in every season.

Top Tips for Your Visit

• Don’t miss out on the area’s famous sweet corn and apple cider doughnuts.
• To relish the complete Lake Geneva experience, walk the entire Lake Shore Path.

Who Would Enjoy Lake Geneva?

Lake Geneva is a fantastic destination for families, couples, and groups of friends. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-boosting watersports, a serene lakeside retreat, or a leisurely stroll through local shops and eateries, Lake Geneva promises to cater to every visitor’s preference.

Cave of the Mounds: Journey into Wisconsin’s Enchanting Subterranean Universe

Set off on an extraordinary expedition into a domain where nature’s subterranean marvels unfold in ways beyond comprehension. Welcome to the Cave of the Mounds, a wonderland where striking stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations guarantee an enthralling experience.

The Fascination of the Cave of the Mounds

Designated as a National Natural Landmark, the Cave of the Mounds, situated in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin, is a splendid limestone cave that’s captivated tourists since its discovery in 1939. Guided tours lead you through well-lit passages, exhibiting the cave’s remarkable formations, many of which have taken millennia to form.

Attractions and Activities

Here are some experiences that make the Cave of the Mounds a must-visit:

• Guided Cave Tours: Skilled guides will accompany you on a fascinating journey through the cave, narrating its history, geology, and the distinctive formations visible throughout the excursion.
• Gemstone Mining: Engage in some gemstone mining, fossicking for fossils and arrowheads at the Cave’s outdoor mining station.
• Fossil Dig: Both kids and adults will relish the hands-on experience at the fossil dig zone.
• Hiking Trails: Wander through the beautiful surroundings of the Cave on its various nature trails.

Gastronomic Experiences

While the immediate vicinity of the Cave of the Mounds lacks extensive dining options, the nearby city of Madison offers a diverse gastronomic landscape.

When to Visit the Cave of the Mounds

The Cave sustains a consistent temperature year-round, making it an ideal attraction for all seasons.

Essential Tips for Your Visit

• As the cave floor can be damp and uneven, ensure you wear comfortable footwear.
• Remember to bring along a camera to snap pictures of the breathtaking formations.

Who Would Enjoy Cave of the Mounds?

Cave of the Mounds is perfect for families, nature aficionados, and those in pursuit of an unusual and exhilarating adventure. The site’s educational and interactive experiences make it an idyllic destination for inquisitive explorers across all age groups.

Elkhart Lake: Wisconsin’s Enchanting Lakeside Retreat

Enter the World of Elkhart Lake

There’s something wholly spellbinding about the crystal-clear, spring-fed waters of Elkhart Lake . Enclosed by a delightful resort town, this haven is a dream come true for aqua aficionados and a sanctuary of serenity for those yearning for a respite from the daily grind.

The Charm of Elkhart Lake

The remarkably clear waters of Elkhart Lake earn it the distinction of being one of the most breathtaking lakes in Wisconsin. The lake’s name is thought to derive from the Native American phrase for “elk’s heart,” and much like the majestic beast, both the lake and the town that encircles it are equally enchanting.

Here are a few essential activities around Elkhart Lake:

• Watersports: From swimming and sailing to paddleboarding and fishing, the lake presents a diverse range of watersport pursuits.
• Road America: Auto racing enthusiasts should seize the opportunity to witness a race at this renowned four-mile, 14-turn road circuit.
• Elkhart Lake’s Historic Race Circuits: Traverse the historic race circuits that catapulted Elkhart Lake onto the international racing stage in the early 1950s.
• Kettle Moraine State Forest: Close by, this forest provides exceptional hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails.

Culinary Pleasures

Elkhart Lake is celebrated for its farm-to-table eateries that utilize locally sourced ingredients. Whether you opt for the Victorian Village Resort’s Back Porch Bistro or the Paddock Club, your palate is in for a delectable surprise!

When to Visit Elkhart Lake

Though Elkhart Lake is a destination for all seasons, the optimal time to revel in the lake activities is during the balmy summer months.

Helpful Tips for Your Visit

• Don’t miss out on the chance to rent a pontoon for a relaxing lake cruise.
• If you’re planning to visit during the summer, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance due to high demand.

Who Would Enjoy Elkhart Lake?

Elkhart Lake is the perfect getaway for water sports enthusiasts, nature devotees, and those seeking a serene retreat. Its broad range of activities caters to thrill-seekers as well as those on a quest for relaxation.

Green Bay: A Touchdown of Rich Culture, Vibrant History, and Natural Splendors

Take a deep dive into the heart of Green Bay, a city that seamlessly marries its illustrious sports history with a wealth of cultural, historical, and natural wonders. This captivating city promises to deliver a winning experience for everyone in your party.

Venturing into Green Bay

Known globally as the home of the Green Bay Packers, this city’s charm extends far beyond its famed gridiron. Green Bay is a vibrant tapestry of experiences, offering a dynamic blend of sporting excitement, cultural richness, historical narratives, and natural beauty.

Score Big with These Attractions

Embark on a journey of discovery in Green Bay with these must-visit attractions:

Lambeau Field and Packers Hall of Fame : Dive into the storied past of the Packers at this legendary stadium and its accompanying museum.

Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary : Roam this urban oasis and marvel at an array of Wisconsin’s native species in their natural habitats.

Green Bay Botanical Garden : Find peace among the diverse and breathtaking floral displays in these meticulously maintained gardens.

Heritage Hill State Historical Park : Step back in time at this living museum featuring an extensive collection of preserved historical buildings.

NEW Zoo & Adventure Park : Embark on a day of exhilarating adventure rides and up-close animal encounters in this expansive park.

When to Touchdown in Green Bay

Green Bay is a destination for all seasons. The city comes alive with unique offerings throughout the year—from the electrifying buzz of football season, the tranquility of snow-dusted landscapes in winter, to the explosion of flora and fauna in the spring and summer months.

Pro Tips for Your Visit

Make sure to check out any local events or festivals during your visit to soak in the city’s dynamic ambiance.

Don’t underestimate the size and appeal of the wildlife sanctuary or botanical garden—each deserves a day dedicated to exploration.

Who Should Tackle Green Bay?

Green Bay is a sure bet for sports aficionados, nature lovers, history enthusiasts, or those seeking family-friendly entertainment. It’s a fantastic destination for families, solo explorers, couples, and, without a doubt, every Packers fan.

Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes: Wisconsin’s Exquisite Waterway Wonderland

Embark on a trip to Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes, an area celebrated for its pristine waters and exhilarating water sports opportunities. Tucked away in Central Wisconsin, this chain of 22 interconnected, spring-fed lakes makes for one of the most rewarding Wisconsin road trips for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Discovering the Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes

The enchantment of Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes resides in its diversity and natural splendor. Each lake in the chain presents its unique appeal. From tranquil, secluded spots perfect for fishing to expansive, lively areas ideal for boating and water skiing, it’s a paradise for aquaphiles.

Here’s what you can anticipate during your visit:

• Boating and Fishing: Whether you’re in for a laid-back cruise, a fishing venture, or adrenaline-charged water sports, these lakes cater to all interests.
• Hiking and Biking: Numerous trails encircle the lakes, offering delightful opportunities for hiking and biking.
• Camping: With many campsites scattered around the lakes, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend camping getaway.

Waupaca boasts an array of dining options, from relaxed lakeside eateries to gourmet restaurants. Don’t miss out on savoring some local Wisconsin cheese!

Best Time to Visit

While the lakes provide year-round attractions, the best time to visit is from spring to fall when you can engage in water sports, hiking, and camping.

Tips for Your Visit

• Don’t forget to pack your water sports gear. If you don’t own any, there are several rental shops in the vicinity of the lakes.
• Respect the natural environment and abide by the guidelines to help preserve this beautiful destination.

Who Should Visit Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes?

The Waupaca Chain O’ Lakes is perfect for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and families. With an array of outdoor activities, it’s a superb destination for anyone seeking a fun-filled respite in the heart of Wisconsin.

Pattison State Park: Unearth Wisconsin’s Breathtaking Wilderness

Delve into the natural grandeur of Wisconsin’s Pattison State Park, the proud home of the state’s highest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls. Tucked into Superior, Wisconsin, this mesmerizing park is a road trip gem that deserves to be on your bucket list.

Unveiling the Beauty of Pattison State Park

The charm of Pattison State Park lies in its robust, tumbling waterfalls. Big Manitou Falls, standing proud at 165 feet, is the crowning glory of the park and one of the highest waterfalls east of the Rockies. Coupled with the smaller Little Manitou Falls and several other cascades, the park delivers breathtaking vistas from numerous viewpoints.

Here are some attractions and activities to look forward to:

• Big Manitou Falls: Witness the awe-striking spectacle of the waterfall and listen to the resonating sounds of water tumbling into the gorge below.
• Hiking: More than 9 miles of trails guide you through the park’s diverse landscapes.
• Swimming: During the summer, the park’s beach serves as a spot to swim or sunbathe.
• Camping: Pattison State Park offers family and group camping options, all within walking distance of the park’s primary attractions.

Culinary Treasures

While the park itself doesn’t house any restaurants, Superior, Wisconsin presents a multitude of dining options just a short drive away.

While the park is accessible year-round, the best time to visit would be from spring to fall. During these seasons, you can partake in hiking, swimming, and witness the vibrant colors of the changing leaves.

• Don’t forget your camera! The views are spectacular, particularly in the fall when the leaves don a riot of colors.
• Wear sturdy footwear if you plan on hiking, as some trails can be steep and rocky.

Who Should Visit Pattison State Park?

Pattison State Park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families. Its accessibility and a broad array of outdoor activities make it a well-suited location for visitors of all ages.

Great River Road: Your Gateway to Exquisite Adventures

Setting Off on the Great River Road Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the heart of Wisconsin on the Great River Road National Scenic Byway. This magnificent route not only offers stunning views of the Mississippi River but also provides a closer look at the region’s rich history and dynamic culture.

The Great River Road, a quintessential American byway, follows the contours of the majestic Mississippi River, unveiling a fascinating tapestry of Wisconsin’s quaint small towns, flourishing farmlands, verdant forests, and towering bluffs. Each twist and turn of the 250-mile-long path uncovers a new aspect of the state’s multifaceted persona, deeply entrenched in history and natural beauty.

Landmarks Steeped in History and Nature

Kick-start your voyage from the delightful town of Prescott, where the serene St. Croix River converges with the imposing Mississippi. As you navigate the Great River Road, you’ll encounter historical treasures and natural marvels that transform your drive into a voyage of exploration. The Villa Louis, nestled in Prairie du Chien, offers a sneak peek into Wisconsin’s fascinating past, while the Upper Mississippi River National Wildlife and Fish Refuge introduces you to spectacular wildlife set against a magnificent backdrop. Make sure to visit Perrot State Park, where towering bluffs command a breathtaking view of the river.

Culinary Indulgences En Route

The culinary journey along the Great River Road is as enticing as its landscapes. From cozy riverside cafes to bustling town centers, local flavors thrive. Traditional Wisconsin cheese curds and locally brewed beer are a must-try, turning each meal into a celebration of the region’s abundant produce.

Comfort Amid Stunning Vistas

Whether it’s the allure of a bed-and-breakfast tucked within a historic building or the conveniences of a modern hotel offering panoramic river views, the Great River Road hosts accommodation options to suit every preference and budget.

Essential Tips for the Journey

• Start your journey with a full tank of gas, as fuel stations might be sparse along certain parts of the road.
• Plan an overnight stay in one of the charming towns en route to truly immerse yourself in local culture.
• Don’t forget your binoculars – the wildlife sighting opportunities are abundant.
• Keep your camera handy as the scenic views are picture-perfect.

Who Should Embark on the Great River Road?

The Great River Road beckons every kind of explorer. Whether you’re drawn to the freedom of open roads, captivated by historical narratives, mesmerized by unblemished nature, or tantalized by the scent of local cuisine, this journey is crafted for you. Ideal for solo adventurers, families, couples, and photographers alike, this route delivers a blend of natural grandeur, historical richness, and culinary delights. The Great River Road is more than a journey—it’s a symphony of experiences that engage all your senses, leaving you with unforgettable memories.

Amnicon Falls State Park: Your Gateway to a Waterfall Wonderland

If the sound of cascading water and the sight of picturesque waterfalls captivate your senses, then Amnicon Falls State Park is a destination to include in your Wisconsin road trip itinerary. Nestled in South Range, Wisconsin, this park serves as a sanctuary for nature aficionados and explorers.

Unveiling the Secrets of Amnicon Falls State Park

Amnicon Falls State Park is a treasure chest of natural splendor. Spanning 828 acres, the park boasts a series of enchanting waterfalls and rapids along the Amnicon River, each offering its own unique charm. A significant feature of the park is the covered bridge, a vantage point providing excellent views of the falls.

Engaging Activities and Attractions

Amnicon Falls State Park offers various attractions and activities to elevate your visit:

• Waterfalls : With several waterfalls varying in size and vigor, the park presents a symphony of sights and sounds.
• Hiking : The park offers several miles of hiking trails, opening the gateway to explore its diverse landscapes.
• Picnicking : Enjoy a peaceful picnic by the falls – an ideal spot for a relaxing lunch break.
• Camping : For those who wish to extend their stay, the park offers campgrounds close to the park’s primary attractions.

Satisfy Your Culinary Cravings

Although the park itself doesn’t house any restaurants, the nearby town of South Range presents a variety of eateries to satiate your hunger after a day of adventure.

When to Visit

Amnicon Falls State Park welcomes visitors year-round. However, the falls display their true power during the spring runoff and following heavy rainfalls.

Make the Most of Your Visit

• Remember to wear sturdy shoes for hiking as some areas can be slippery.
• Don’t forget your camera! The park showcases exceptional beauty in autumn when the leaves burst into vibrant colors.

Who Should Visit Amnicon Falls State Park?

Amnicon Falls State Park caters to nature lovers, hiking enthusiasts, and families. With its stunning natural beauty and accessible trails, it serves as a delightful destination for explorers of all ages.

Kettle Moraine State Forest: A Playground for Outdoor Enthusiasts

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, Kettle Moraine State Forest is a place you shouldn’t miss on your Wisconsin road trip. Famed for its unique glacial landscapes and extensive network of trails, it offers a paradise for hikers, bikers, and adventurers of all stripes and ages.

Unveiling the Magic of Kettle Moraine State Forest

The Kettle Moraine State Forest, stretching across 30 miles of southeastern Wisconsin, is celebrated for its distinct glacial formations that were crafted during the last Ice Age, including kettles, moraines, and eskers. The forest is split into two main sections—the Northern Unit and the Southern Unit, each boasting its unique set of attractions.

Attractions and Activities Worth Exploring

Dive into a diverse array of engaging attractions and activities that Kettle Moraine State Forest offers:

• Hiking : The forest is crisscrossed by miles of hiking trails, suitable for different ability levels. The Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which snakes through the forest, is a particular crowd-pleaser.
• Mountain Biking : For mountain bikers, the John Muir Bike Trails offer a thrilling terrain variety, promising a heart-racing experience.
• Camping : Take advantage of the myriad campsites and rentable cabins scattered across the forest, turning your visit into a memorable overnight adventure.
• Winter Sports : When winter descends, the park transforms into a snow-laden wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling.

Culinary Experiences in the Vicinity

Though the forest doesn’t host dining facilities, you could either pack a delightful picnic or sample the local delicacies in the nearby towns such as Whitewater and Elkhorn.

When to Embark on Your Adventure

Kettle Moraine State Forest welcomes visitors throughout the year. However, to make the most of the trails, plan your visit from late spring to early fall.

Valuable Tips for Your Visit

• Keep an eye on the trail conditions before setting out, especially if your plans involve biking or winter sports.
• Don’t forget your binoculars—the forest is teeming with an array of wildlife species!

Who Would Enjoy Kettle Moraine State Forest?

Kettle Moraine State Forest is an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, nature photographers, and families eager for an active escapade. The plethora of activities on offer ensures everyone will find something to enjoy, promising a vibrant and unforgettable experience amidst Wisconsin’s natural beauty.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail: A Journey Through Wisconsin’s Glacier-Sculpted Landscapes

For those fascinated by the allure of a thousand-mile expedition through the unique glacial landscapes of Wisconsin, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail is an extraordinary road trip destination that should not be overlooked. With a diverse range of trails, from wide, easy paths to challenging terrains, this trail is a welcoming call to adventurers of every experience level for an epic escapade.

Journeying Along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail meanders through the heart of Wisconsin, granting you an intimate view of the state’s rich glacial past. As you traverse this trail, you’ll marvel at the undulating hills, tranquil forests, expansive prairies, peaceful lakes, and winding rivers—all footprints left behind by the ancient glaciers that once swept across this region.

Attractions and Activities Awaiting You

Here’s a snapshot of what the Ice Age National Scenic Trail has to offer:

• Hiking : Primarily used for hiking, the trail invites day trippers and long-distance backpackers alike, promising an array of unforgettable experiences.
• Wildlife Viewing : As the trail winds through a diversity of wildlife habitats, it offers abundant opportunities for bird watching and wildlife photography.
• Winter Sports : In the winter season, specific portions of the trail are accessible for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
• Camping : If you’re venturing on multi-day hikes, you’ll find designated camping areas along several sections of the trail.

Savoring Culinary Delights

While the trail itself lacks dining facilities, it snakes close to various towns and cities where you can delve into local Wisconsin cuisine.

Ideal Time to Visit

The trail welcomes visitors throughout the year. However, if you’re planning a hiking trip, the best time to visit is from spring to fall. For winter activities, plan your trip between December and February.

• Make sure to plan your hike in advance and let someone know about your itinerary.
• Carry essentials like water, food, and a first-aid kit.
• Stay updated with any trail closures or conditions before setting off on your trip.

Who Would Enjoy the Ice Age National Scenic Trail?

The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a dream come true for hikers, nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and geology enthusiasts. It provides a mesmerizing canvas to appreciate Wisconsin’s natural splendor and its profound glacial history.

Bookworm Gardens: A Fairytale Experience

Let your imagination run wild in the literary paradise of Bookworm Gardens. Based on popular children’s literature, this botanical garden promises an educational, enchanting, and entertaining experience for all.

Introduction to Bookworm Gardens Located in Sheboygan, Bookworm Gardens is a whimsical blend of botany and books. Spread over 35,000 square feet, the garden houses six main areas, each inspired by a different genre or theme from children’s literature. The ‘Great Woods’, ‘Farm Garden’, ‘Animal Farm’, ‘Magic Treehouse’, and ‘American Stories’ all combine to make your visit a narrative journey through beloved children’s books.

Noteworthy Attractions From the giant leafy canopy of the Great Woods, which was inspired by classic tales like “The Jungle Book” and “Where the Wild Things Are,” to the pastoral charm of the Farm Garden, drawing inspiration from “Charlotte’s Web,” each corner of the Bookworm Gardens is a story waiting to be discovered. Don’t miss the Magic Treehouse, an elevated wooden structure reminiscent of popular adventure novels. And the ‘Hansel and Gretel Learning Cottage’ hosts educational activities and special events throughout the year.

Foodie Delights After an exciting day exploring the gardens, refuel at one of Sheboygan’s many eateries. The city offers a range of dining options from classic American fare to international cuisine. If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to try the renowned Wisconsin frozen custard.

Nearby Amenities Sheboygan has a range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to cozy B&Bs.

Who is it good for? Bookworm Gardens is ideal for families with children. This magical garden provides an interactive learning experience, making it a must-visit for those who love literature, nature, or simply enjoy spending time in beautiful surroundings. It’s also a fantastic spot for photographers looking to capture the garden’s enchanting details.

Conclusion: The Delights of the Dairy State Beckon

There you have it, a comprehensive guide to the best road trip spots that Wisconsin proudly presents. Ranging from the artistic masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin to the stunning beauty of Devil’s Lake State Park, and from the lively urban pulse of Milwaukee to the serene allure of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, the Badger State extends a diverse array of experiences to gratify every kind of traveler.

Regardless of which pocket of Wisconsin you opt to delve into, you cannot overlook the state’s captivating charm and the rich tapestry of its culture. Whether it’s the enticing cheese factories, the eclectic culinary landscape, the picturesque lighthouses, or the vibrant arts and crafts scene, every town, every city, and every scenic route unfurls a unique narrative.

This guide merely skims the surface. Each destination listed here promises more than mere sights – they offer experiences; the sort that blur the miles you’ve traversed and heighten your anticipation for the journey yet to come. Experiences that echo in your heart, transforming each subsequent visit into a warm reunion with a cherished companion.

So, load up your luggage, top off your tank, and take to the open road. Let Wisconsin’s verdant vistas captivate your gaze, its vibrant culture warm your heart, and the memories of an extraordinary expedition enrich your spirit. Wisconsin, resplendent in all its glory, is ready to surprise you at every twist and turn, throughout every season.

Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a nature aficionado, a gastronomy enthusiast, a family voyager, or simply a soul in search of tranquil retreat, Wisconsin has a treasure for you. And remember, the journey itself is as mesmerizing as the destination. Savor the boundless freedom of the open road, let the thrill of exploration fill you, and allow the siren call of wanderlust to lead you. The quintessential Wisconsin road trip is beckoning. Are you ready to respond?, visit between December and February.

Wisconsin’s Best Road Trips Destinations Map

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The 12 Best Road Trips from Minneapolis (Our Mega Guide)

• Updated March 16, 2022

People like to stereotype us Midwesterns as landlocked prisoners, living among the cornfields.

In fact, if you’re looking to take a road trip from Minneapolis, you’ve got all sorts of awesome options!

Whether you’re looking for a short drive that can be finished in a day or a week-long, cross-country excursion, this guide compiles the 12 best road trips from Minneapolis. 

We’ve been on most of these road trips ourselves, which is why you’ll also find maps plotting out our favorite stops along the way.

Happy driving!

1. The Quick North Shore Trip to Duluth, MN (with a stop at Banning State Park)

2. the weekend lake retreat to brainerd / nisswa, mn, 3. the short scenic drive to lake pepin, 1. the best road trip for families: wisconsin dells, wi, 2. drive to two unique small towns: lanesboro, mn & decorah, ia, 3. the closest, most underrated city: des moines, ia, 1. the full north shore experience, 2. the big city experience: minneapolis to chicago (and milwaukee), 3. wisconin’s premier getaway: door county, wi, 4. minneapolis to the upper peninsula, mi, 5. the nearby national park: badlands national park, sd, 1. the bucketlist roadtrip from minneapolis: the great river road, short 1 day road trips from minneapolis (about 2 hours).

Personally, I think it’s a stretch to call less than 3 hours of car-time a “road trip.” As a fan of multi-day treks across the country, I’d consider these short jaunts to be more like day-trips. (We’ve got an article all about the best day trips from Minneapolis , too!)

But in any case, sometimes you’re just looking for a quick getaway from hustle and bustle of Minneapolis. If that’s you, here are a few of the best short drives from the Twin Cities.

They’re all about two hours one way, and we’ve done our best to include multiple stops along the way… you know, for maximum adventuring.

As they say, Duluth is “The Gateway to Lake Superior.”

I actually have no idea if people say that, but they should!

Duluth is idyllic old shipping town that sits at the southernmost tip of Minnesota’s one and only Great Lake. Duluth’s rich history means you’ll find plenty of historic charm and irreplaceable character. Watch ships pass under the 120 year old Aerial Lift bridge, climb the 80 foot tall Enger Tower , tour the historic Glensheen Mansion , or step aboard the 610 foot long SS William A Irvin .

Despite all the history, Duluth has seen a revitalization in recent years, and the town is now packed-full of trendy shops and new craft breweries and distilleries. Many of which can be enjoyed while looking over the beautiful shores of Lake Superior! 

The drive: 

To get to Duluth, you’re looking at just over 2 hours one way. It’s an easy, if not uneventful, drive up 35E North.

For a good-halfway point on your road trip, consider stopping at Banning State Park . It’s right around 1.5 hours from Minneapolis and famous for its beautiful rock formations, waterfalls, and white water rapids.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 154 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 2 hours, 20 minutes
• Banning State Park (1 hour, 30 minutes)

When it comes to the best vacation lakes in Minnesota , the Brainerd Lakes area , which comprises the neighboring towns of Brainerd and Nisswa, MN, is probably the most popular weekend retreat for city-dwellers.

If you’re looking a road trip to “the lake” this drive has your name all over it.

This area is teeming with dozens of beautiful Minnesota lakes, each one with plenty of lodging options that range from full-out resort to secluded cabin in the woods. If it’s not enough to just unplug at the lake, check out the nearby small towns of Brainerd and Nisswa.

Brainerd is one of the largest “cities” in Northern Minnesota, which still makes it a small town by any definition. And Nisswa is especially charming, with a quint main-street that’s stocked full plenty of craft breweries, bars, and shops.

The drive to Brainerd is a quick 2 hours and 15 minutes. Obviously, you can easily do this in one shot, but if you’d like to take a more leisurely pace, you have a couple options for stops along the way: 

• Taking 169 North will have you hugging the coast of Mille Lacs Lake, one of the biggest lakes in Minnesota. Not surprisingly, Mille Lacs has plenty of attractions all on its own, including one of the closest casinos to the Twin Cities .
• Or you can veer off to US-10 W and head through the interesting college town of St. Cloud, MN.

Both routes are basically the same distance with similar drive times.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 127 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 2 hours, 15 minutes
• Grand Casino Mill Lacs (1 hour 45 mins)
• St. Cloud, MN (1 hour 15 mins)

For the most scenic short roadtrip, head down to Lake Pepin, just a little over 1 hour south of Minneapolis.

The road trip will take you down the Great River Road Scenic Drive , so you know it’s gotta be pretty!

The name comes from the road’s tendency to weave along the shore of the Mississippi River. Along the way, you’ll find cute small towns and plenty of gorgeous river bluff views.

This is also one of the best road trips in Minnesota to take in the fall, thanks to amazing fall colors along the river.

This route is a road trip classic, and the short version highlighted here is just the beginning. The truly dedicated could continue this trip all the way down to New Orleans! (Seriously! More on that later…)

In this shorter itinerary, you’ll start in the Twin Cities and head down the river road to Wabasha, MN. Cross the river to Nelson, WI, and then head back up the cities on the opposite side of the river. (There’s river roads on both sides of the Mississippi, and both are equally scenic, so make sure you check them both out!)

This route is packed full of interesting small towns, including:

• Hastings, MN: A cute historic town that’s only 30 minutes south of St. Paul. You can relax along the river in Levee Park or wander the historic 2nd Street, which is filled with quaint antique shops and the always-popular Spiral Brewing.
• Red Wing, MN: A small town filled with restored historic buildings. Home to the legendary Red Wing Shoes and Red Wing Pottery / Stoneware companies.
• Frontenac, MN: Worthy of a stop for Frontenac State Park or Mount Frontenac Golf Course, both of which have fantastic views of the Mississippi River and Lake Pepin
• Lake City, MN: A very small harbor town known for it’s sailboat-filled Marina.
• Wabasha, MN: Another small town worthy of a stop. Wabasha is known for its beautiful riverfront walking trails as well as the National Eagle Center , where you can learn about the many Bald Eagles native to the area.

More details on the drive:

• Distance from Minneapolis: 90 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 1 hour, 45 minutes
• Hastings, MN (35 mins)
• Red Wing, MN (1 hour, 10 mins)
• Frontenac, MN (1 hour, 20 mins)
• Lake City, MN (1 hour, 30 mins)
• Wabasha, MN (1 hour, 45 mins)

Medium weekend road trips from Minneapolis (about 3 hours)

If you’re looking to get a little further from home or want a little more road time, the next few road trips will take you to fantastic destinations about 3 hours from the Twin Cities.

These trips are perfect for a long weekend, since each one is packed with tons of great things to see and do.

Wisconsin Dells is known as the water park capital of the world, so you can bet this is the perfect family destination for a family road trip.

This popular tourist town features tons of water park resorts, including the biggest in the world, no matter how you measure it. Seriously, looking for the largest outdoor water park in the world? The Dells has it. ( Noah’s Ark ) The largest indoor waterpark? Yep. ( Kalahari Resort ) How about the largest combined indoor/outdoor waterpark? Yes and yes. ( Wilderness Resort )

Of course, that’s just one part of The Dells story. There’s also theme parks, mini golf courses, real golf courses, spas, ziplines, live shows, boat tours, trolley tours, and don’t forget, the legendary “Duck Tours.”

Wisconsin Dells sits in southern Wisconsin, about 3.5 hours from the Twin Cities.

To get there, you’ll take I-94 East, which to be honest, isn’t exactly the most scenic or eventful road trip option from the cities.

Your obvious half-way point would be Eau Claire or Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin, which for beer fans, may be worth a stop to visit or tour the Leinenkugel’s Brewery .

Another option would be to drive through La Crosse, WI. This would take you down the previously mentioned Scenic River Road and only add about an hour to your drive.

Otherwise, this is one road trip that you may want to tackle in one shot, assuming the little ones are up for it. 

• Distance from Minneapolis: 216 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 3 hours, 20 mins
• Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin (1 hour, 45 mins)

When most locals think about cute small towns in our state, Lanesboro is always one of the first to mind. 

This picturesque small town just looks like the type of place to jump out of a Hallmark movie. It has a lively main street of historic brick buildings, all of which are surrounded by the area’s tall river bluffs, almost making this place the closest thing Minnesota has to a mountain town.

Add in plenty of fun activities, like the 60-mile Root River Bike Trails system or the state’s largest cave , and it’s obvious why Lanesboro is always one of the state’s most popular small-town getaways.

But there’s a second fantastic small town just across the border. Decorah , Iowa sits just 45 minutes away. There you’ll find an underrated collection of parks that celebrate the region’s endless hills, rivers, and limestone bluffs. Surprisingly, Decorah has also become one America’s brewery hot spots; it’s now home to two critic’s favorits – Toppling Goliath and Pulpit Rock breweries.

Lanesboro sits in southeast Minnesota, about 2 hours from the Twin Cities. To get there, you’ll take 52 South, cut directly through Rochester, MN, and then veer off towards the cute small town.

To get from Lanesboro to Decorah, you’ll head another 45 minutes south through peaceful Minnesota and Iowa farmland.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 157 miles (Minneapolis to Decorah, IA)
• One-way driving time without stops: 2 hours, 50 mins (Minneapolis to Decorah, IA)
• Lanesboro, MN (2 hours, 15 mins)

Look out, stereotypes about corn fields. Des Moines, Iowa is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States.

As the capital of Iowa, Des Moines has a surprisingly impressive city vibe that features lively arts, top notch food, plenty of shopping, trendy neigbhorhoods, and a rich history.

It’s a sneakily impressive city. We know plenty of Minnesotans, who after finishing cracking their inevitable jokes about Iowa, will secretly admit that Des Moines is one of the cooler cities they’ve ever visited.

Des Moines is 3.5 hours south of Minneapolis.

You’ll take 35E South, which isn’t the most exciting drive in the world. The best advice we can give you is that if you really need a stop, Owatonna, MN, located 1 hour south of Minneapolis, is a somewhat interesting small town with quite a bit of history. Otherwise, your best bet may be the SPAM Museum in Austin, MN. 

Otherwise, just keep on trucking, and you’ll find yourself in one of America’s most underrated cities in no time.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 244 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 3 hours 30 mins
• Owatonna, MN (1 hour)

Longer 5-7 Day Road Trips from Minneapolis (5+ hours)

Now we’re entering some real road trip territory!

These road trips will all take you to amazing destinations that are about 5 hours or longer from the Twin Cities.

For these destinations, you’ll definitely want to give yourself several days to take everything in. Most would be best with five to seven days of vacation, so if you’ve got a little more time on your hands, these are certainly some of the best drives inside (and out of!) the state! 

Making the full drive through Minnesota’s stunning North Shore is something every Minnesotan should do at least once. Even most out of town visitors will be surprised that our humble Midwestern state has such amazing scenery!

This road trip will take you from Minneapolis, through the previously-highlighted town of Duluth, and all the way along the Lake Superior shoreline to the Canadian border!

The first two hours of this drive will take you to Duluth. From there, you head to the true “Minnesota North Woods” as you follow Minnesota’s Scenic Highway 61 through Two Harbors, past Lutsen, into Grand Marias, and eventually, right to the Canadian border.

There’s so many amazing stops along this route that we wrote an entire guide to our 19 favorite things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore .

• Distance from Minneapolis: 299 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 4 hours, 55 mins
• Recommended stops: We list all our favorite stops in our article about the best things to do on Minnesota’s North Shore .

MSP airport has tons of cheap, quick flights to The Windy City, so it’s easy to forget that you can almost drive there in the same amount of time!

Chicago is the third most populated city in the U.S. So if our own city’s collection of amenities isn’t doing it for ya, you can always hop in a car to experience deep dish pizza, world-class museums, iconic skyscrapers, and the great Lake Michigan all for yourself.

By car, Chicago is just over 6 hours of highway driving from Minneapolis.

At the four hour mark, you’ll enter Madison, Wisconsin, which is worth a stop. As the capital city of Wisconsin and home to the University of Wisconsin, Madison is a city with a unique character all its own. While there, you can grab a delicious meal or four, lounge at the Student Union’s beautiful lakefront terrace, and experience masterpiece architecture from the legendary Frank Lloyd Wright.

But to really ramp this road trip to the next level, consider this –  adding a stop in Milwaukee, Wisconsin adds just 30 minutes of driving to the route.

For our money, Milwaukee is one of the most underrated cities in the country. It’s filled with more amazing breweries than we can count, carries a unique tradition of German food all-of-it’s own, sits in a beautiful lakefront location right on the water, and even has casinos within city limits!

• Distance from Minneapolis: 408 miles to Chicago
• One-way driving time without stops: 6 hours, 15 minutes
• Madison, Wisconsin (4 hours, 15 mins)
• Milwaukee, Wisconsin (5 hours, 5 minutes)

If you’re looking for the ultimate in idyllic Midwest trips, Door County it is.

Does your idea of a good vacation include a landscape lined with blue lakewater, picturesque countryside, and endless wineries, lighthouses, and state parks? Then you might want to make the drive to this beautiful part of Northeastern Wiconsin.

Door county is almost exactly five hours east of Minneapolis. Along the way, you’ll drive through hours of north Wisconsin’s rural countryside, before eventually reaching Green Bay.

Depending on your football affiliations, entering Green Bay is either akin to going behind enemy lines or reaching The Promiseland. Either way, it’s a unique town with more than just football, and certainly worth a stop one hour before (or after) reaching the final Door County destination.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 321 miles to Door County
• One-way driving time without stops: 4 hours, 50 minutes
• Green Bay, Wisconsin (4 hours, 15 minutes)

It’s easy to overlook the Upper Peninsula, that odd part of Michigan that hooks over to the same land mass as Wisconsin but oddly, is still technically part of Michigan.

But anyone who’s ever made the drive to this difficult to reach part of the country knows that “The U.P.” is home to endless miles of beautiful Lake Superior coastline, acres upon acres of pristine wilderness, and all sorts of natural attractions. (The most popular being the photogenic and colorful cliffsides known as Pictured Rocks .)

Sure, it doesn’t get the press (or amenities) of more popular nature destinations, but Michigan’s Upper Peninsula absolutely carries a certain tranquility that’s hard to find these days.

Our recommended road trip from Minneapolis to the Upper Peninsula features the final desination of Munising, MI. Munising is a small town that marks the beginning of the popular Pictured Rocks, and a great spot to start your kayak tour of these beauties.

The most direct route to Munising clocks in at 6 hours and 55 minutes, but we actually recommend you take the more scenic route through Northern Wisconsin. This will allow you to break up your drive with stops in Hayward , Wisconsin (yet another one of our best vacation lakes from Minneapolis ) and Marquette , MI (the charming college town).

Note: This is the exact route we took when the pandemic halted our summer air-travel plans, and we had to adjust plans to somewhere drive-able and a little more remote. This section of Michigan did not disappoint!)

For those with extra time, this path also allows you to spend even more time exploring the region with a quick jaunt up to Copper Harbor , yet another interesting part of the U.P. which sits on a peninsula of its own.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 425 miles to Munising
• One-way driving time without stops: 7 hours, 30 minutes
• Hayward, Wisconsin (2 hours, 30 mins)
• Marquette, Michigan (6 hours, 30 mins)

For the nearest national park outside of Minnesota, consider the lengthy drive to Badlands National Park in southwestern South Dakota.

Badlands is a park famous for its unique rock formations that are an odd mix between canyons and mountains. These strange rock features were created by years of erosion, exposing the dramatic, colorful, and frankly… bizarre landscape that’s unlike anywhere else in the country.

Badlands is 7 hours and 20 minutes west of Minneapolis on Interstate 90. Near the beginning of the drive, you’ll pass through Mankato, MN and Siox Falls, SD before spending hours driving through southern South Dakota prairie and grassland.

• Distance from Minneapolis: 502 miles to Badlands National Park

Massively Huge Road Minnesota Road Trips

In case you have a couple weeks (or months!) to burn, check out this wild road trip!

I’d say only two types of people can pull off this monster road trip: those who just can’t get enough driving, and people who already are retired.

The Great River Road is considered by hardcore roadtrippers to be one of America’s most scenic drives. This massive road trip follows the Mississippi River for 3,000 miles, all the way from Red Wing Minnesota to, wait for it… New Orleans, Louisiana!

We talked about the first part of this drive when we outlined the trip from Minneapolis to Lake Pepin earlier in this article, but that’s only the beginning of the Great River Road.

Safe to say, there’s far more to cover on this road trip than we could ever fit on this page. And unfortunately, yours truly hasn’t been able to devote the vacation time needed for this monster road trip just yet.

But for those lucky enough to be planning this trip, we’d recommend checking out something like the Mississippi River Parkway Commission or Road Trip USA’s guide .

• Distance from Minneapolis: 2,000 miles
• One-way driving time without stops: 34 hours!!!
• Red Wing, MN
• La Crosse, WI
• St. Louis, MO
• Memphis, TN
• New Orleans, LA

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The Best Road Trips in Wisconsin

Food Editor

Road tripping is a great American tradition and a great way to have new experiences and see some new sights without needing to hop on a plane. From the comfort of a car, you can view stunning vistas, charming towns and, best of all, eat food on the go while enjoying the fresh air and changing scenery. Here are our favorite drives to take in the state of Wisconsin.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips , compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips .

Great River Road National Scenic Byway

Known more prosaically as Highway 35, this road trip is a 250mi (402km) drive along the Mississippi River. If you’re paying attention on the way, you might even be able to spell Mississippi by the end of the trip. Stretching from Prescott to Potosi, this drive has 33 charmingly small and quaint towns to visit along the way, many with art galleries, wineries and historic sites of interest to draw your attention. Pull up your best road trip playlist and get going.

A road trip with possibly the best name ever, Cranberry Highway is the trip that fruit lovers or Thanksgiving lovers should choose, as it winds its way through century-old cranberry bogs for almost 50mi (80km). You can see the red berries from the highway – a beautiful sight. The route runs from Wisconsin Rapids to Warrens and then between Pittsville and Nekoosa. If you’re keen to see more cranberries, you can explore Highway 54, Highway 173, Highway 13 and then county roads in Wood, Juneau and Monroe County.

Lake Superior Byway

This road trip is a Wisconsin classic, and it runs alongside Lake Superior for a route blessed with natural beauty. At 70mi (113km) long, you could do it in one day or split the trip by spending the night at one of the many harbor towns and historic fishing villages you pass. You’ll enjoy views of lush forests, sparkling sandy beaches and the clear blue water of Lake Superior; you should definitely pack your bathing suit because you won’t be able to resist taking a dip.

At the northernmost tip of the peninsula, past Gills Rock, lies Wisconsin ’s world-famous curvy road. Resembling a child’s drawing of a winding, bumpy road, it wends its way through stunningly bright and vivid fall foliage. This is one of the most photographed parts of the whole state, and although the most beautiful portion is only 15mi (24km) long, it is an iconic road to take. We recommend visiting midweek or at the beginning or end of each autumn season, as it can get very busy.

Elkhart Lake

As long as you’re driving along it, it counts as a road trip, right? Elkhart Lake, found around 80 minutes north of Milwaukee, is rightly famous for its watersports – but the Road America racecourse nearby is a world-favorite. Drawing visitors who love amateur racing since 1955, it is worth a trip here to catch a race on this 4mi (6.4km) track. While you’re there, the nearby Kettle Moraine State Forest has many miles of trails for running and biking.

Highway 33 Scenic Drive

This road trip is one of the state of Wisconin’s coast-to-coast routes – not from the east coast of America to the west, but from Lake Michigan to the Mississippi River. Highway 33 has the honor of being one of the few state highways to have a hairpin turn, so buckle up. The route takes you through Wildcat Mountain State Park, which has beautiful scenic viewing places as well as some spectacular hiking. You can also stop to go canoeing in Wonewoc, which is worth seeing. Summer and fall are the best times to travel here.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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Road Trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Florida

Whether you're heading south in search of theme park thrills or winter sun, a road trip from Wisconsin to Florida will wow you. On the way from Milwaukee to Orlando, you'll get to visit some fabulous midwestern cities before winding your way through Tennessee and either Alabama or Georgia.

On the 1,410-mile road trip from Wisconsin to Florida you'll spend 22 hours on the road as you head through Chicago, Cincinnati, Savannah and Charleston, plus Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Or travel inland via Mammoth Cave, Nashville and Alabama.

Whichever route you choose, your road trip to Orlando will be packed full of contrast and variety, and you can take your pick of cultural gems, outdoor activities, national parks, stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches. Keep on reading to find our what's in store!

How far is Florida from Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and how long will the road trip take?

Whichever way you travel, you'll have to spend a long time on the road when you take a road trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Orlando. In fact, with at least 1,310 miles to cover you'll spend around 20 hours behind the wheel if you take the more direct route through Nashville.

You can also travel from Milwaukee to Florida via Charleston and Savannah, driving through Knoxville and the Great Smoky Mountains National Park along the way.

This route is only 100 miles longer by distance at 1,410 miles but will take an extra 2 hours and 45 minutes to drive as you'll be leaving the interstate behind for some scenic stretches of the route.

With so many miles to cover, we'd recommend taking at least a week to enjoy this fabulous road trip. That will let you divide the drive up into a manageable average of 3 hours per day and give you time to explore the vibrant cities and stunning national parks that you'll pass along the way.

Best road trip route from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Florida

There are a couple of great road trip routes to choose from when you're traveling overland from Wisconsin to Florida.

If your idea of a fantastic journey includes a combination of charming and historic cities, coastal relaxation and the great outdoors then the Savannah Route is probably your best bet.

This route gives you great variety. You'll travel through the Great Smoky Mountains before heading out toward the Atlantic coast to visit Charleston and Savannah. The only downside of this route is that it's slightly longer and less direct.

Head through Nashville and your road trip will have a different feel.

This route connects several major cities which each have their own distinct character. Together they take you on a tour through the country's 20th-century history and culture, from motorsports in Indianapolis, music in Nashville and the civil rights movement in Montgomery and Birmingham.

Unless you detour to Destin you won't spend any time on the beach on this route either – though with so many attractions to choose from during your stay in Florida that's probably not an issue!

How to drive from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Florida

The map above shows our suggestions for the best road trip routes between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Florida. Keep reading for detailed descriptions of both routes, where to stay on either, and the best things to do on the way.

The Savannah Route

This route starts out by following Interstate 94 (I-94) south towards Chicago, running parallel to the shore of Lake Michigan.

After crossing into Indiana, continue southeast on the interstate through Indianapolis to Cincinnati, where you'll cross the Ohio River to enter the state of Kentucky.

From here, I-75 will take you south through Lexington and past Daniel Boone National Forest before you arrive in Knoxville. Just outside the city at Kodak you'll finally leave the interstate and follow the highway south to Pigeon Forge.

Next, join US-441 which will take you on a scenic drive right across the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Leave plenty of time to enjoy this stunning natural landscape and the many attractions of Gatlinburg.

From Cherokee make your way back to I-40 which takes you as far as Asheville. Here, change onto I-26 and follow it all the way to Charleston on the South Carolina Coast.

You're on the final stretch of your road trip as you start to follow the Atlantic shoreline south. First, you'll visit beautiful Savannah before the interstate runs parallel to the Golden Isles which sit just offshore.

Crossing into Florida your first port of call will be Jacksonville. From here you have the option of meandering through the beachfront towns if you have time, before turning inland on I-4 to complete your drive in Orlando.

The Nashville Route

Follow the Savannah Route as far as Indianapolis, but stick with I-65 here to continue heading south. This will take you across the Ohio River into Louisville and then on past Elizabethtown before you turn off to visit Mammoth Cave National Park.

Back on the interstate you'll pass Bowling Green and Franklin before crossing into Tennessee for your overnight stop in Nashville. Then head back out to I-65 which takes you across the Tennessee River Bridge on your way to Birmingham, Alabama.

When you cross the Alabama River on the outskirts of Montgomery you'll leave I-65 for the final time. From here, take US-231 through the Alabama back country, stopping at Dothan before you join up with I-10 shortly after arriving in Florida.

Follow the interstate east through Tallahassee then merge onto I-75 outside Lake City. This will take you past Gainesville and Ocala before you turn onto Florida's Turnpike for the final leg of your road trip to Orlando.

Best places to stop between Milwaukee, Wisconsin and Florida

You'll definitely need to make a few overnight stops as you travel from Milwaukee to Orlando, but the good news is that you're spoilt for choice when it comes to deciding where to stay.

We've picked out some highlights to get you started with planning your road trip:

Check out colorful Charleston

The fabulous southern city of Charleston has many attractions to explore, so it's a great place to spend a little longer if you're taking the Savannah Route.

Just over 1,000 miles from Milwaukee, you'll really appreciate the contrasts as you stroll through the cobbled streets of historic Charleston, including its colorful French Quarter.

Enjoy the view from Waterfront Park and Charleston Harbor, before heading out to Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum where you'll find a retired aircraft carrier among other military craft.

You can even hop on a boat across to Fort Sumter to explore Charleston's Civil War history.

A few miles outside the city is Middleton Place. This peaceful riverside property is a former plantation where you can now listen to the stories of the slaves and landowners who lived here.

The beautiful Andrew Pinckney Inn is set in a historic building close to many of the city's main attractions, just a short walk from the historic district and the Old Slave Mart Museum.

After checking in to one of the inn's comfortable and elegant rooms, you can share your travel stories with other guests at the daily drinks reception.

The inn is reasonably priced for its city location, and guest parking is available which adds to the convenience factor.

Dance the night away in Nashville

Just under halfway along the Nashville Route, you'll be missing out if you don't spend an evening checking out a live show in Music City .

Nashville is world-famous for its musical legacy, and there are several museums across the city dedicated to different styles and performers.

At the Johnny Cash Museum you can follow the life story of the legendary Man in Black, or visit the National Museum of African American Music to see how cultural influences have helped to shape modern music.

If you need a break from wall to wall music, head to the Frist Art Museum. Located in a beautiful 1930s former post office, these days you can tour work by some of the art world's biggest names.

Of course, few visits to Nashville are complete without booking a seat in the huge auditorium at the Grand Ole Opry for a swinging celebration of country music.

The quirky vintage style of the Graduate Nashville will make a stay here a real highlight of your trip. It's right in Midtown so you can enjoy an evening's entertainment before making the short trip back to your hotel room.

Enjoy a cocktail on the fabulous roof terrace while you watch the sun go down. Or cool down in the rooftop pool if you're here in summer. (Book both in advance even if you're staying at the hotel – they're understandably popular.)

Then, if you've been inspired by your time in music city, check out the hotel's own karaoke bar.

READ MORE - Click here for great hotel options

Where to stay when you reach Florida

When you arrive in Orlando, chances are you'll be looking for a hotel which gives you quick access to a whole host of the city's attractions.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Orlando ticks that box perfectly. It's a short drive away from Universal Studios and Sea World. Walt Disney World Resort isn't far away either.

As well as being conveniently located, you'll make an entrance when you pull up outside its palm-lined driveway, and you can relax in style by the outdoor pool.

Rooms here are comfortable and spacious, and the hotel is reasonably priced for Orlando, making it a great all-round choice for your time in Florida.

Things to see on a road trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Florida

The road trip from Wisconsin to Florida takes you right from one end of the country to the other, so it should come as no surprise that there is plenty to see and do along the way.

With well over 1,000 miles to travel we can't list out all of the fabulous attractions, but here are a few of our favorites:

Savannah Route

• Cincinnati - Take a tour of the Great American Ballpark or check out the tropical botanical displays at the beautiful Krohn Conservatory.
• Knoxville - Tour the McClung Museum of Natural History and Culture or visit one of Knoxville's many independent venues.
• Pigeon Forge - Head to Dolly Parton's Dollywood for amusement park thrills with a country music soundtrack.
• Great Smoky Mountains National Park - Follow US-441 through the national park for stunning scenery and your choice of trails to hike or bike.
• Asheville - With its huge landscaped gardens and spectacular mansion, it's no surprise that Biltmore Estate is now a National Historic Landmark.
• Columbia - Visit South Carolina's State Museum and take a walking tour of the state capital's other historic buildings.
• Savannah - Stroll through the atmospheric squares and cobbled streets, stopping to take in one or two of the city's historic mansions.
• Jacksonville - After relaxing at the long, sandy beach, head back into town to immerse yourself in culture at the Cummer Museum of Art or with a performance by the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra.
• St Augustine - Explore 450 years of history as you walk the cobbled streets and beaches of this early Spanish settlement, then head over to Castillo de San Marcos National Monument in Matanzas Bay.

Nashville Route

• Louisville - Visit in May and you'll be in town for the Kentucky Derby, one of the world's most famous horse races.
• Mammoth Cave - Book ahead to secure your tour of this huge underground cave system. If you're claustrophobic, you can kayak through the fresh air in other parts of the national park.
• Birmingham - There are many Civil Rights Movement monuments and museums in Birmingham, including the Civil Rights Institute. Before moving on, book yourself in for a tasty barbecue – Ollie Irene comes highly recommended.
• Montgomery - Visit the Rosa Parks Museum or the Freedom Rides Museum to find out about the Civil Rights Movement in Alabama's state capital.
• Dothan - See the Wiregrass Museum of Art or tour the murals and antebellum houses of this charming smaller Alabama city.
• Tallahassee - Stop off at the Tallahassee Auto Museum to see its gleaming collection of vintage cars.

Both Routes

• Chicago - Head to Navy Pier to enjoy a day of entertainment beside stunning Lake Michigan.
• Indiana Dunes National Park - Take a short detour before you hit I-65 south and you'll find yourself walking through these scenic, wind-swept dunes on the southern shore of Lake Michigan.
• Indianapolis - Get yourself the Indy Craft Pass and set out to explore the city's many wineries and craft breweries.

Best time to go on a road trip from Milwaukee, Wisconsin to Florida

Florida is popular with visitors all year round, but you'll be greeted by various kinds of sunshine depending on when you travel.

Florida can feel humid in the summer months, even though temperatures don't usually reach higher than the low 90s Fahrenheit. Add on to that huge crowds, we'd suggest that other times of year might make for a better trip.

On the flip side, Florida is famous for its winter sun, with pleasant high temperatures in the mid-70s Fahrenheit. Don't bank on swimming in the ocean though – that takes a lot longer to warm up.

If you take the trip in winter, you'll need to keep in mind that the northernmost part of your trip is likely to be affected by snow, so pack accordingly. Check for local advisories as you travel through the Great Smoky Mountains in particular.

As the snow melts, spring is a fantastic time to visit Florida. Temperatures peak at a manageable 80 degrees and the rainy season won't have arrived yet. Watch out for spring break crowds though, as Orlando, like other parts of Florida, is a popular destination.

With the summer rain easing off by the end of October, this is another great time to travel. Along the way you will be able to catch stretches of stunning foliage, especially if you're traveling through the Great Smoky Mountains National Park on the Savannah Route.

Whatever time of year you visit, Florida won't disappoint you with buzzing festivals and events to enjoy. Be sure to the huge Parade of Pirates at Gasparilla Pirate Fest in January, as well as live, pirate-themed entertainment and “Piratechnics”.

If you're traveling over Memorial Day weekend, catch a live performance or two at Florida Folk Festival, a huge gathering of folk musicians.

Orlando's theme parks are also full of entertainment all year round, but if we had to pick some highlights, we'd start by celebrating Carnival at Universal Studios from February to April, and maybe even check out the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend in late February.

And of course, there are plenty of holiday spectaculars to enjoy, including Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party at Walt Disney World Resort.

With so much on offer when you arrive in Florida, as well as all those amazing places to stop along the way, a road trip from Milwaukee to Orlando is sure to be an unforgettable experience. So, what are you waiting for? Find your suitcase and your sunscreen and get ready to hit the road!

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19 Cool Weekend Trips in Wisconsin

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: February 8, 2019  - Last updated: April 1, 2024

A personal selection of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin, US

Bordered by Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, the state of Wisconsin offers an array of diverse landscapes that are an absolute pleasure to explore.

From outdoor activities to quiet romantic getaways, the state of Wisconsin has whatever you need for a vacation in all seasons. 

While many consider that the majority of the activities are located in Madison or Milwaukee, there are so many other cool weekend trips in Wisconsin to explore!

Hey! Don’t forget to grab my free Wisconsin Getaway Checklist below!

Pssst…! You can’t get enough of visiting places in Wisconsin? Have a look at my other posts:

• Best Breweries in Wisconsin
• 15 Road Trips in Wisconsin You Should Take!
• 15 Most Haunted Places in Wisconsin

This post contains affiliate links. if you buy via them, I’ll earn a small commission which helps me to keep this blog running. I received services for free for an honest review. All opinions are my own

Table of Contents

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1. Big Manitou Falls

For those looking for: Sightseeing and picture-taking

• Accommodation Options: The best way to enjoy the beauty here is by renting a cabin. You’ll love this Lakefront Superior Cottage w/Deck & Boat Dock or this beautifully decorated Home near Spirit

Among all the top attractions in Wisconsin, The Big Manitou Falls area is especially known for its waterfalls, gorgeous Wisconsin lakes , and rivers.

In this popular destination in Wisconsin, you will find some of the most unique visual sights you will ever come across. Big Manitou is home to the highest waterfall in the state, clocking in at over 160 feet .

No wonder it is often considered one of the best waterfalls in North Wisconsin .

When you first look at the waterfall, you will notice that the water is of a brownish color rather than a crystal blue color. The reason? The water is uniquely colored due to the assortment of minerals found in the water- known as tannins.

When deciding to visit Big Manitou Falls, you will come across a ton of exciting walking paths. Expect quite a bit of walking, so pack comfortable shoes and a camera with you.

It is truly a sight to see since you will be surrounded by beautiful greenery everywhere you go.

You will be taking a ton of pictures, so prepare yourself for a new screensaver and loads of selfies!

There are 2 types of falls you will need to see: small and large falls. Luckily, the falls can be viewed from any of the viewpoints located at the park.

Expect a good 30-minute walk from where you park your car, in order to reach a viewpoint to see the falls. If you have little ones with you, they will be also able to see it with relative ease.

Overall, walk around, enjoy the beautiful sights, and take some beautiful pictures. It will be well worth it!

WANT TO EXPLORE WISCONSIN ON A WEEKEND?

Get ready with this  free checklist!

• Stay organized with your weekend planning!
• Never run out of inspiration!

Check your inbox to download your free Wisconsin checklist! Don’t forget to check your Spam too 🙂

Don’t forget to bring your Wisconsin hiking guidebook in order to explore the best trails in the area. – Check rates here

2. Wisconsin Weekend at Devil’s Lake State Park

For those looking for: A visit to one of the largest parks you will ever see for a Wisconsin family getaway

• Accommodation Options: The Ringling House Bed & Breakfast has the best reviews in town, and the Inn at Wawanissee comes with a hot tub! Cabin lovers, this area is heaven for you! Check out this quirky Log Cabin or stay in this gorgeous contemporary home on a quiet wooded lot.

The largest state park in Wisconsin; the Devil’s Lake State Park , is an extremely popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. A must-see for all ages, Devil’s Lake is easily one of the most beautiful spots for taking photos in Wisconsin.

An absolute must-see when visiting Wisconsin, and luckily you will be able to as it is open all year round! No wonder, that it is considered one of the best Wisconsin State Parks.

As soon as you arrive, you will notice extremely wide picnic areas with people relaxing and enjoying the weather. Overlooking the park is a massive lake; over 300 acres of beautiful water.

As such, you will have the opportunity to engage in Wisconsin’s finest activities: fishing, boating, and rock-climbing! It also has some of the best hiking in Wisconsin Dells .

The hills around the lake, known as Baraboo Bluffs, make it especially easy to do some rock climbing . You can enjoy the experience by climbing slowly and peering across to the lake or challenge yourself with more complex climbs.

You can also decide to entertain yourself and your family with some hiking in Wisconsin , stopping for a mini-picnic, or taking some memorable photos.

If you are willing enough, you can take one of the more difficult paths in order to reach a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the lake. Once you find the spot that is to your liking, you certainly won’t regret it.

The key is to just enjoy the experience, and just stop whenever you feel like it.

Otherwise, take the time to simply soak in the scenery and experience true Wisconsin nature at its finest. The nature changes in winter, that’s why the area is a great Wisconsin winter getaway too!

Book here your National Park pass

3. Mini Vacation at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

For those looking for: Adventure

• Best Thing to do:  Rent a kayak – or bring your own inflatable one
• Accommodation Options:  The  Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast is perfect for those who want to splurge a bit and the  Old Rittenhouse Inn is a fabulous mid-range option. For Airbnb and cabin lovers, this  Madeline Island Cabin  is located right on the lakeshore on Madeline Island. And this Library Street Cottage is the cutest!

If you want an adventure when visiting Wisconsin, look no further than the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

With a collection of 21 islands alongside a lakeshore, this is one of the most adored spots by tourists and locals. You are free to enjoy the lakeshore how you like.

By enjoying the views, listening to music, or watching the assortment of birds in the sky. The area is also home to some of the most romantic cabins in Wisconsin , it’s thus perfect of a couples’ getaway.

You will be hard-pressed to find a more relaxing experience. Always among one of the top 10 things to do in Wisconsin, the Apostle Islands is one of the best places to go in Wisconsin.  Make sure to check the full guide on things to do in Apostle Islands .

But the beauty of this lakeshore lies in the variety of activities that are available for you to explore. Consider renting a kayak, so you can venture from island to island.

Do not let this opportunity go to pass: it is very enjoyable to reach each island and enjoy the variety of amenities and recreational there.

Many islands offer scuba-diving and fishing activities for a very good price! Book here your National Park pass

If you really want to make it an adventure, try camping at one of the 19 available islands. Don’t worry, each island offers great camping sites with excellent amenities.

If you want to stay on a budget, there are remote camping sites for you as well.

What makes these islands so wonderful is the freedom and options it offers. Many tourists decide to camp out on these islands, and you will surely make a couple of friends if you do decide to stay! – Check rates for a cabin getaway in Apostle Islands

4. Enjoy a Romantic weekend at Elkhart Lake

For those looking for: A resort experience

• Accommodation Options: The Osthoff Resort is perfect for those who want to splurge. Cabin lovers, you’ll enjoy this Esker Ridge Chalet or this gorgeous European-style home in the heart of Elkhart Lake.

For a wonderful resort experience, consider Elkhart Lake in the south of Wisconsin.

Elkhart Lake is home to the famous Road America race dating back to the ’50s. Every year, you will find many races being hosted; with the most popular ones hosted in summer.

Being an international event, you will find people coming from all across the United States to enjoy the events.

Elkhart Lake is home to some of the most beautiful resort experiences in Wisconsin. Whether you want an option to relax or be adventurous on your stay, this is the place to be.  

Elkhart Lake resorts have some excellent live theatre and music at night , along with great food.

For a purely positive experience, consider the “ The Shore Club Wisconsin ” – where you will have excellent service, food, and lovely swimming centers. It has an old-fashioned feel and an excellent choice for a relaxing resort. – Check rates here

When it comes to water experiences and some family fun in Wisconsin, enjoy one of the best getaways in Wisconsin by checking out Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park or Fireman’s Park.

Fireman’s Park offers a typical picnic area with a sandy beach, while Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park offers more of a variety of activities including campsites, fishing, and picnic areas.

Most resorts in the region also offer access to similar picnic areas and sites close to both of these parks.

In addition to the top-end resort choices in Elkhart Lake, there are also some great hotels in Sheboygan , which are more budget-friendly.

Plus, you don’t want to miss out on some of the great things to do in Sheboygan.

Book here your lake cabin in Wisconsin

5. Wisconsin Road trip at Door County 

For those looking for: A truly relaxing experience

• Accommodation Options: The Homestead Suites comes with outdoor and indoor pools and a spa bath, and the White Gull Inn is a great option for adult-only stays. If you prefer an Airbnb in Door County next to Fish Creek, you’ll love the cute Creekside Cottage or this DoCo Oasis . 

Door County is a popular spot for tourists and locals from Wisconsin and even neighboring states such as Illinois. As a result, Door County is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

Door County offers a variety of opportunities to relax and enjoy the sunset. The reason? Door County has multiple state parks that tourists flock to during their off days, such as on Memorial Day.

Typically, the acres of land offer wonderful hunting, camping, fishing, and hiking opportunities. It’s particularly quaint when in fall foliage and considered one of the best things to do in Wisconsin in fall.

In fact, Door County in October is one of the best times to visit as there are many festivals on, and it’s the perfect time to see the fall colors in Wisconsin .

Quite frankly, Door County may simply end up being one of the most memorable visits when it comes to these activities. If you’re still looking for a place to stay, have a look at my list of the best Airbnbs in Door County, WI .

There are seemingly endless acres of land for you to enjoy, so definitely give it a try if you love the great outdoors.

Almost limitless hunting, camping, and fishing capture the majority of things to do in Northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin. It is no wonder why tourists visit from across these two states.

For some more northeast Wisconsin activities, Door County has an assortment of beaches and resorts that are more than a safe bet. No wonder the beaches of the peninsula are often considered some of the most scenic beaches in Wisconsin .

Some beaches have pebbles and rounded rocks which make it difficult to walk but are very relaxing with plenty of amenities nearby for a picnic. Other beaches offer softer sand, perfect for kids to swim in the nearby shallow water. 

If you are able to stay a few days, I recommend checking out some of the best wineries in Door County . Just be sure not to drive to and from your wine tastings!

Two excellent hotels and resorts to consider are the Bay Shore Inn ** and Bay Breeze Resort. The Bay Shore Inn is a fantastic option to retire in when returning from the assortment of Wisconsin road trips from Wisconsin. Book here your stay in Bay Shore Inn.

The Bay Breeze Resort offers comfortable sleeping and wonderful access to private beaches. – Book here your stay in Bay Breeze Resort

Book here your wood log cabin in Door County

6. Marinette County: Fun Place to Stay in Wisconsin

For those looking for: A unique touristic experience in the state of Wisconsin

• Best Thing to do:   Rent an RV and go on a road trip
• Accommodation Options:  The Lauerman House Inn has the best reviews in Marinette, and the Country Inn & Suites by Radisson comes with a pool and hot tub. Have a look at this Cozy Cabin on the Menominee .

When deciding on fun places to go in Wisconsin, Marinette County is a great choice.

You will find a host of communities that cater to the tourism experiences available in Marinette County. From outdoor activities to unique food and dining, Marinette County is one of the best places to vacation in Wisconsin

For all you foodies out there, there are a host of options for some good-old Wisconsin fun and Wisconsin activities. The Fire Winery and Seguin’s House of cheese will be some of the best Wisconsin stops you will have!

The House of Cheese offers lots of creamy curds. Ranging from sweet to spicy; along with fantastic wines and fresh fish.

Prepare your taste buds for a memorable dairy and wine-filled experience ! The Fire Winery is a fantastic choice for a variety of wines to help end an entertaining afternoon with your loved one.

If you get the chance, take a day to visit Dave’s Falls in the south of Amberg. It is an excellent choice for a wonderful outdoor experience and gives you another chance to view Wisconsin’s beautiful waterfalls . It is picture-worthy and certainly memorable.

Easily one of the best vacation ideas in Wisconsin ; Marinette County offers great food, and a beautiful waterfall experience.

Book here your cabin getaway in Wisconsin

7. Amnicon Falls State Park, South Range

For those looking for: A big park and even bigger Waterfalls!

Amnicon Falls State Park is one of the top Wisconsin vacation destinations. In the Amnicon Falls Park, you will find an absolutely stunning park, as if it was made out of a drawing.

You will find varying watercolors in the waterfalls, once again due to the minerals from the rocks.

When you decide to go see the Falls, you will find both upper and lower falls. In both falls, you are more than welcome to have a dip or go for a swim. The streams are pure and the rocks dot the park beautifully.

You will eventually reach Amnicon Falls State Park bridge, connecting two parts of the park. Get a chance to take some pictures, and learn a part of its historical significance.

If you go in winter, prepare for a different experience in one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin in winter .

Prepare to walk across soft snow-covered trails, with an opportunity to reach the famed snow-covered bridge. It is a truly exceptional experience and a chance for a Wisconsin winter weekend getaway.

While swimming is out of the question, there are still possibilities for catered hiking and exceptional opportunities to take pictures.

For a Wisconsin winter vacation, a trip to the Amnicon State Falls Park may be an underrated and exceptionally beautiful experience.

8. Lake Geneva: the Perfect, Romantic Weekend Getaway

For those looking for: A wonderful time at a major state park

• Best Thing to do:   Do an Audio Tour of the Lake Shore Path
• Accommodation Options:   The Grand Geneva Resort and Spa ****  is perfect for a spa getaway, while the  Lake Lawn Resort *****  has the best views! On Airbnb, this downtown home is an affordable luxury experience! Not what you’re looking for? Check out my guide on where to stay in Lake Geneva or the best Southern Wisconsin resorts .

Lake Geneva often tops the list of Wisconsin lake vacations. The reason is greatly due to the fact that it is a resort city based along Geneva Lake.

It is greatly popular with tourists from Illinois and neighboring cities in Wisconsin .

It’s the ideal weekend getaway in Wisconsin from Milwaukee and there are plenty of things to do in Lake Geneva, WI .

How about deciding on one of the romantic weekend getaways in Wisconsin? Enjoy the fresh air and cool breezes coming from Geneva Lake.

From the assortment of beaches, cruises, and water sports, Lake Geneva is an exceptionally relaxing experience for you and your loved one.

You can also spend a day at Lake Geneva State Park, where you can have a lovely picnic or take a long stroll. – Book here your lake cabin in Lake Geneva

For a bit more excitement; try zip-lining! For the first time, it can be an unbelievable experience, and a must-try if you want to make it a part of your memorable romantic getaways in Lake Geneva .

The staff are very helpful, and will gladly answer any questions you may have. But the activity is quite simple: hop on and have the ride of your life!

Another fun activity is the Lake Geneva Clue Room where you can search for classified documents or outsmart Al Capone!

Lake Geneva Clue Room is one of the best escape rooms in Wisconsin , and a great way to spend an afternoon.

If you visit Lake Geneva in winter , the escape rooms are also a fun indoor activity to escape the cold! For a shorter stay, Lake Geneva is also one of the best day trips from Milwaukee in winter .

And if you’re looking for a festive romantic getaway, one of the best things to do in Lake Geneva in December to treat yourself is a spa getaway.

For an excellent choice of Wisconsin lake vacation rentals or a chance of romantic day trips in Wisconsin cabins, check out the Ridge Hotel.

The Ridge Hotel offers a variety of packages for lovebirds. This includes spa, massage, and chocolate and flower deliveries to your room.

Within the area of the hotel, you have close access to Kettle Moraine, shopping centers, and a myriad of excellent bars and restaurants. – Book here your stay in the Ridge Hotel

Related: Where to stay in Lake Geneva

For those looking for: A visit to the capital for some exciting moments

• Best Thing to do:   Madison Cooking Class
• Accommodation Options:  the Best Western Premier Park Hotel  has great views of Madison’s main attraction, while the Hotel Indigo – Madison Downtown, an IHG Hotel , comes with a cool interior design downtown!

Being one of the most vibrant scenes in Wisconsin, you will find an assortment of touristic activities and some beautiful scenery in the city of Madison.

In the warmer months, the top things to do in Madison, Wisconsin are outdoor activities.

Cycling along the excellent trails is a great option to work your leg muscles and enjoy a long, relaxing ride with your loved ones.

If you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, hiking in Madison, WI , is a must.

You’ll find some of the best hiking in Southern Wisconsin , especially the hikes around the University of Wisconsin – Madison Arboretum.

Madison is one of the most quaint and safest cities in the United States, so this is truly one of the most enjoyable experiences you can have.

In colder months, things to do in central Wisconsin include joining the majority of tourists by skating or playing hockey.

People are really friendly in Madison and very welcoming, and it is a very natural and relaxed culture and a great place to vacation.

For some proper touring, head to the Wisconsin State Capitol for a view of a massive white dome, and a chance to see some beautiful murals.

If you happen to visit during winter in Madison, WI, the Capitol building puts up a HUGE Christmas tree, which is a must-see!

Also, take the time to check out the Henry Vilas Zoo for a view of some amazing animals including bears, lions, alligators and an assortment of underwater creatures. 

Otherwise, definitely head over to the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art for some interesting architecture and famous landmarks that make it one of the best places in Wisconsin.

As a result, Madison is normally a top choice for Wisconsin vacation ideas .

10. A Weekend in Milwaukee

For those looking for: An exciting city trips in Wisconsin

• Best Thing to do:   Milwaukee Food Tour
• Accommodation Options:   The Pfister Hotel is a true legend in town, while the  Schuster Mansion Bed & Breakfast is probably the most scenic option. For Airbnb fans, this historic house  is only a short walk from a scenic park. You can also check out my guide on where to stay in Milwaukee .

Fear the deer! A city with many exciting spots, Milwaukee is one of the cool and fun places to stay in Wisconsin. What is there to do?

Well, you can hit up a massive 200-acre zoo, or plan a day to view the Harley Davidson Museum. How about dining at one of the most popular steakhouses in the city?

The options are plentiful, so get ready for a fun time on your one-day trip to the largest city in Wisconsin!

Among the many southern Wisconsin, attractions include the Milwaukee County Zoo, one of the most famous zoos in the United States.

The Milwaukee Zoo combines an assortment of rare breeds of animals with really fun events. It is perfect for a family visit, or a trip with a significant other.

You probably won’t believe it, but there are seasonal days when admission is absolutely free! This zoo is really a must-see if you find yourself in Milwaukee.

For meat lovers out there, consider the “ Rare Steakhouse ” for delicious cuts of meat and fine wines.

Easily one of the best steakhouses you will go to, with an older-school vibe and excellent service. A must-try for the hungry carnivores looking for a tasty dinner.

Read more about the best hotels in Milwaukee

If you are looking for something unique in Wisconsin, what to do besides hitting up a Harley museum?

The museum certainly contains hundreds of motorcycles but also sports a fantastic cooler vibe with a chance to see proud owners showing off their own personalized bikes.

Even if bikes aren’t your cup of tea, this museum gives you an opportunity to see how intense the passion is. For a bike-lover, this very well could be your heaven.

While in the city, be sure to enjoy all of the top things to do in Milwaukee at night , including the cars on Brady Street and the spy-themed bar, SafeHouse.

If you are visiting with kids, winter is also a great time to visit. There are many festive things to do in Milwaukee in December that kids will love.

Find here a selection of the best tours in Milwaukee

11. Peaceful Wisconsin Getaway at Kettle Moraine

For those looking for:  Outdoor family fun

• Accommodation Options: The Hidden Serenity B&B is a great hideaway. But a cabin getaway is the best way to enjoy the natural beauty here. You’ll love the GGG Log Cabin close to trails and the lake. The Lillibridge Lake Home is just steps from the water on quaint Tittle Lake, nestled in the Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Kettle Moraine, or the Kettle Range, is one of the best Wisconsin weekend packages . You will find yourself learning more about geography, and experiencing one of the most popular spots in all of Wisconsin.

Kettle Moraine is essentially a massive moraine; glacier and boulder-formed debris, with kettles all around it.

Quite simply, you will have the experience of seeing a massive state park with a variety of different moraines. Naturally, there is a variety of outdoor activities for you to entertain while visiting Kettle Moraine including fishing and camping.

For an excellent fishing experience, definitely make your way to Ottawa Lake where there is a wide area for you to fish, swim, and hop on a boat .

There is excellent accessibility for any impaired, along with wide, vast areas for you to enjoy in your time.

For a unique weekend trip to Wisconsin, have a shot with target shooting or even hop on a snowmobile if you are there in winter.

The target shooting is located in a sports center in Kettle Moraine State Forest , and provides you with either guns or bows to fire some ammunition. An  exhilarating experience!

Otherwise, make an initiative to go snowmobiling if you visit in winter. You will twist and turn your way along beautifully shaped trails, among tall trees and boulders around you.

Most of the time, you will receive an immediate city-wide notification if there is availably snowmobiling at the time depending on the weather or other circumstances.

In Kettle Moraine, The Tiki Beach Resort on Kettle Moraine Lake is one of the cool places to stay in Wisconsin. It has a wonderful ambiance and is perfectly located.

It is the perfect place to stay if you want more of a variety of activities when you stay in Kettle Moraine. It is also one of the very best romantic places to stay in Wisconsin, thanks to its fun ambiance and relaxing layouts.

Whether you decide to fish , go hunting, or just relax under the sun, outdoor activities in Kettle Moraine is one of the best Wisconsin things you can do.

Book here your stay at the Tiki Beach Resort on Kettle Moraine Lake

12. Romantic Trip at Bayfield

For those looking for: Restaurants, Hotels, and an enjoyable Cruise.

A city in Bayfield County, Bayfield was originally a fishing community that is now home to an assortment of tourist activities. In Bayfield, you can expect to find cheap getaways in Wisconsin, along with some of the excellent romantic places in Wisconsin.

It’s also the perfect place for a getaway with your beloved one since Bayfield is home to some of the most romantic cabins in Wisconsin . – Book here your cabin getaway in Bayfield

A popular event in Bayfield known as the AppleFest is hosted in October. It is a celebration of Bayfield’s cultural heritage , where you can find stands or booths offering tons of food and refreshments. Furthermore, you can expect a variety of shows, events, and even an amusement park.

In other sunny months, consider registering for a Grand Tour Cruise Service for at least a 4-hour long cruise and tour.

The captain will show you the assortment of rocks, sea caves, and islands scattered around from Bayfield onwards.

You will also come across some unique wildlife, and get close-up views of nature at its finest. Consider this a romantic experience, or an adventure worth taking when looking for things to do in Northern Wisconsin .

In Nearby Bayview, you’ll find the Bayview Trail, which has some of the best hiking in Northern Wisconsin and is perfect for outdoorsy couples.

For those looking for a northern Wisconsin vacation rental, consider the Bayfield Inn . The Bayfield Inn is one of the best places to stay in Wisconsin considering the service, location, amenities, and excellent help for wherever you need to go. – Check rates & reviews here

Meanwhile the Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast is one of my favorite romantic hotels in Wisconsin , and perfect for a couples getaway to the Apostle Islands. – Check rates & reviews here

13. Family Getaway at Wausau

For those looking for: A green weekend getaway

• Accommodation Options: The Stewart Inn comes with the best reviews, and you’ll love the Inn at the River for its scenic river views. Check out the best Airbnbs in Wausau as well.

If you ever really want to know what’s in Wisconsin, Wausau offers a host of affordable romantic getaways in Wisconsin  for families and vacations for couples. 

A city right next to the Wisconsin River, Wausau is best visited in summer (due to the beautiful weather and soft sunshine) or winter (a chance for walking on snowfall trails).

In summer, take the time to visit the Rib Mountain State Park for a chance to go hiking on beautifully formed trails or to view the unique habitats that surround the park.

You also have an opportunity to hop on a ski lift, in order to see the beautiful colors of the natural forest all around you. This is also an excellent option for fall, where you can see the ever-changing colors of nature.

Nonetheless, you will have the opportunity to soak up some sun, and enjoy a relaxing day in nature. One of the best choices you can make in Wausau.

Hitting the slopes at Granite Peak for some skiing fun is also one of the best Wisconsin trips in winter. This lodge is just the perfect skiing spot for anybody in the midwest. –  Find here the best hotels in Wausau

They have everything you need, from wide slopes to a beautifully formed drop for you to enjoy. Be sure to get your tickets a few weeks in advance if you want to get up there without a problem.

It is one of the most popular ski resorts in Wisconsin – so be on time!

The rides are fun and expect less traffic than in Mt. Olympus. Either way, you are going to have a wail of a time. – Check rates for the best hotels in Wausau here

RELATED: Fun Things To Do in Wisconsin Dells

14. Fun Kayak Activity at Chippewa Valley

For those looking for: A Great valley, with some fun summer activities

• Best thing to do: Bring your own kayak and explore
• Accommodation Options: The Inn On Lake Wissota is the cutest and has top reviews! The area boasts gorgeous cabins such as this charming Hilltop Home with city views or this pet-friendly Lakefront cabin .

If you decide to have a weekend in Wisconsin, Chippewa Valley offers the Big Falls and opportunities to fish or paddle alongside the Chippewa River. Two great options for some summer fun and entertaining activities in Chippewa Valley.

Look at any of the maps of attractions in Wisconsin, and the Big Falls of Chippewa Valley will surely come up.

Big Falls offers what you would expect: tumbling waterfalls on rock ledges surrounded by small islands everywhere you go.

Chippewa Valley and Falls were named originally by the Indian settlements, and you can clearly see the cultural and historical remnants of these lands.

Next, take the opportunity to fish or paddle alongside Chippewa River, or do both! You will find many canoers or kayakers strolling across the river, which flows on at about 180 miles. It is an extremely popular spot for fishermen looking to land their next batch of sea bass.

It’s also the perfect occasion to bring your inflatable kayak . – Check rates & reviews here

For more fun stuff to do in Wisconsin, check out Irvine Park; home to the Irvine Zoo which is a very popular attraction for locals and tourists.

15. Hike at Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest

For those looking for: A massive forest for a memorable adventure

• Best Thing to do:  Bring your own inflatable kayak
• Accommodation Options: Gordon Lodge  comes with hot pools and is a great place to stay.

If you find yourself wondering what to see in Wisconsin, look no further than the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. Over a million acres of wide forest land for you to explore, so make sure you have a small map and your car nearby at all times!

The National Forest is one of the fun places in Wisconsin, and certainly one of the top things to do in Wisconsin. –  Book here your National Park pass

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is home to remote areas of pure natural forest including a vast array of bogs, rivers, meadows, and giant trees.

Expect to see some interesting animals, such as owls, raccoons, and chipmunks as soon as you arrive. The forest is so vast, that it is very easy to get lost.

A lways have your map handy, and keep the car close by so you can retrace your steps. Luckily, you will most likely find similar tourists around no matter where you decide to venture into this massive park. –  Book here your National Park pass

Naturally, the National Forest is home to a variety of recreational activities including camping and fishing.

If you decide to go in winter, expect hiking on snowy trails and seeing the forest in a completely different light. It is up to you to decide which experience you prefer, but know that there will be thousands of tourists similar to you! 

Be sure to carry an excellent camera with you, in order to snapshots the forest’s heritage and natural history.

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is easily an excellent option for fun day trips in Wisconsin, whether you decide to go in June or November.

16. Eagle River, Wisconsin

• Accommodation Options: the Best Western Derby Inn *** has the best reviews in town, while the Wild Eagle Lodge ** is a great 2-star option! Airbnb fans, you should check out this charming waterfront cabin or this spacious, entire home .

Eagle River is another one of my favorite destinations in Wisconsin. During the summer months especially, the natural beauty of this destination is unbeatable.

You can stay in a Cabin, an Airbnb or in one of the many resorts found in the area. – Check rates for lakefront cabins in Wisconsin here

Eagle River offers an amazing lake-life experience where you can go Kayaking, Canoeing, or Paddle Boarding. If fishing is your thing, this is a lovely peaceful place for fishing.

In the evening you can enjoy a quiet campfire and make some S’mores. It’s the perfect place to bring your own inflatable kayak too.

Don’t forget to step aboard a Pirate ship for a cruise around the lake.

17. Elroy-Sparta State Trail, Wisconsin

If you are a nature lover and like to bike, the Elroy-Sparta State Trail is the place to be. It is one of the most populate trails in the USA with three rock runners and five small towns along its 32.5-mile route.

It will take you past wetlands, prairies, farmland, and unglaciated area. Don’t forget to have flashlights with you as you will need them when passing through the tunnels.

A Wisconsin weekend trip to the Elroy-Sparta State Trail is a fabulous idea since it’s considered one of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin .

18. Spring Green, Wisconsin

• Accommodation Options: Spring Valley Inn features an indoor pool and comes with top reviews! For Airbnb fans, you’ll love this secluded Taliesin-designed retreat and the Historic Farmhouse is truly unique!

If you are fascinated by architectural wonders, you will want to make a stop at Spring Green. It is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright’s magnificent Taliesin , and Alex Jordan’s mysterious “ House on the Rock “.

The House on the Rock is one of the strangest museums I’ve ever seen with its architectural jumble and an astonishing collection of toys and unique marvels.

19. Water fun in Wisconsin Dells

• Best Thing to do:   Visit the Ringling Brother Mansion
• Accommodation Options:  the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Wisconsin Dells ***  is always a great choice, while I love the backyard of the Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells *** . For Airbnb fans, check out this cute  2 bedroom cabin  in Christmas Mountain. It’s one of my favorite Airbnbs in Wisconsin Dells .

Other things to do involve hitting Wisconsin Dells, right next to the Wisconsin River. Things to do near Wisconsin Dells include heading to a water park, for fun rides and family experiences.

Mt. Olympus is your safest bet here and is large enough to accommodate the floods of tourists and locals in summer.

Noah’s Ark is another great option, and anyone who loves water parks will know why.

Luckily, the parks are also open year-round and are even one of the top things to do in Wisconsin Dells in winter .

If you’re still wondering where to stay, check my guide on the best Airbnbs in Wisconsin Dells .

Short FAQ about Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin

What are affordable romantic getaways in wisconsin.

If you want an intimate getaway in Wisconsin, Elkhart Lake is one of the most beautiful resorts in Wisconsin. You will surely enjoy the sunset or the live theatre and music at night, along with great food.

What are the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for couples?

If you want to walk around, enjoy the beautiful sights, and take some beautiful pictures, Big Manitou Falls is the best for you and your loved one. For island hopping activities, Have a mini-vacation at Apostle Islands National Lakeshore.

What are the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for singles?

Marinette County is a great choice for a beautiful waterfall experience, If you just want a food trip in Wisconsin The Fire Winery and Seguin’s House of cheese will be some of the best Wisconsin stops you will have! You can also check Madison City, People here really friendly and very welcoming. It is a very natural and relaxed culture and a great place to vacation. Maybe after your trip here, You’ll end up with your special one already.

For a quick overview, have a look at my Web Story about Weekend Trips in Wisconsin.

Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip 

• You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my  GoPro  in order to shoot even in extreme situations. 
• Make sure to wear comfortable  walking shoes  and  hiking sandals   when traveling to warm countries. Consider trying some of these eco-friendly vegan hiking boots .
• Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my  eco-friendly sunscreen   by Thinksport.
• I always carry a  light rain jacket ,  just in case. Pack smart with these organic cotton clothing companies .
• Be environmentally friendly and get one of these awesome backpacks made from recycled materials .
• Get in the mindset with these amazing wilderness survival books .
• Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel is protected against all odds with  HeyMondo .

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Jeff Krueger

Saturday 4th of February 2023

Hi Paulina, great article. But a note of correction... I grew up in the Devil's Lake area and the region was not known as the "Baraboo Hills", it is the "Baraboo Bluffs" which was created by ancient glaciers.

Monday 6th of February 2023

Hi Jeff, thank you for the heads up! This has been amended :)

Saturday 15th of August 2020

Victorian Village in Elkhart Lake closed in 2018. It reopened as The Shore Club in 2019.

Tuesday 25th of August 2020

Thank you so much dear Rea for your comment! It's updated now :) Happy travels!

Tuesday 12th of February 2019

Milwaukee seems amazing. We must visit him one day.

Monday 25th of February 2019

Hey! Yes it really is such a cool place to visit! When will you go?

These 5 Road Trips In Wisconsin Will Lead You To Places You'll Never Forget

The Midwest is the best.

More by this Author

When the weather gets warmer, that means one thing: ROAD TRIP! But why stop at one when you can go on several? Here are five unforgettable road trips in Wisconsin that you should take in the months when the weather is warmer and the sun is shining.

Trip 1: Door County

Trip 2: The Dells

Trip 3: Apostle Islands

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Trip 4: La Crosse

Trip 5: Great River Road

Have you done any of these unforgettable road trips in Wisconsin? What other road trips would you add to this list?

If you like scenic drives, you may like to take a drive along these backroads in Wisconsin .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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Unforgettable road trips in wisconsin.

What are some of the most unique places in Wisconsin?

There are some places that can only be found in Wisconsin. Take, for example, the seasonal Bookworm Gardens in Sheboygan, a whimsical botanical garden divided into sections, each with its own book theme. It’s a magical place that’s reminiscent of a fairytale. Another notable place is the Center of the Northwest Hemisphere which is located in the middle of a farm field in Poniatowski . This type of place only exists in a few parts of the world and here we have one in Wisconsin!

What are the most scenic places in Wisconsin?

Some scenery throughout Wisconsin is jaw-dropping. Head to Amnicon Falls State Park in South Range for otherworldly scenery along a fault line. The varied geography here is just breathtaking, so get your cameras ready! In Bailey’s Harbor, the hand-built Boynton Chapel was built in the style of a 12-century Norwegian house of worship. This beauty is surrounded by nature on the north campus of Lawrence University. View these and more scenic places in our post, 17 Unimaginably Beautiful Places In Wisconsin That You Must See Before You Die .

What are some other Wisconsin road trips I can take?

If you are looking for themed road trips , you’ve come to the right place! We have put together some road warrior adventures for those who love waterfalls, haunted places, and even cheese. Themed road trips are often incredibly fun and give us something to look forward to, creating memories with every mile driven along the way.

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