12 Small Towns In Wisconsin To Visit For A Weekend Getaway
Welcome to Wisconsin, home of “Brew City” Milwaukee and its beloved Brewers baseball team, the legendary Green Bay Packers, rich German heritage, and unforgettable agricultural fairs with famous treats like the legendary deep-fried butter. Situated in the Upper Midwest and bordered by both Lake Michigan and Lake Superior, Wisconsin is a welcoming state that blends postcard-worthy natural beauty with genuine Midwestern hospitality.
Whether you’re dreaming of culturally inspired villages, lively waterfront destinations, cozy breweries, or charming historic main streets, Wisconsin’s small towns deliver unforgettable weekend getaways. Surrounded by rolling farmland, sparkling lakes, and lush forests, each community offers its own blend of scenic beauty and local character, inviting you to unwind, embrace regional traditions, and experience the genuine warmth that defines Wisconsin. Here is the 2025 list of 12 small towns in Wisconsin to visit for a weekend getaway.
Port Washington
Experience a touch of the Maritimes in the heart of the Midwest. Settled on the western shore of Lake Michigan, just 30 miles north of Milwaukee, Port Washington is a small harbor town with coastal character. Known for its New England-inspired architecture, historic downtown, and lively waterfront, it’s the perfect destination for a relaxing summer weekend getaway.
Stroll along the scenic breakwater and snap a selfie at the iconic Port Washington Breakwater Lighthouse, one of Wisconsin’s most photographed spots. The scenery provides the perfect backdrop of Lake Michigan and magnificent views of the sunrise. Experience life on the open water with Fin N’ Fly Sportfishing, a family-friendly charter that welcomes anglers of all ages and skill levels. Enjoy a fun and relaxing day on Lake Michigan as the crew provides all the necessary gear and guidance for an unforgettable fishing adventure.
Port Washington’s walkable downtown is lined with unique local shops and boutiques that exude vintage New England charm. Don’t miss The Chocolate Chisel, a beloved specialty shop known for its handcrafted chocolates and nostalgic, old-fashioned ice cream parlour. Savor a memorable lakefront dining experience at The Beacon Restaurant, where an expansive outdoor patio and floor-to-ceiling windows showcase sweeping views of Lake Michigan. For a cozy overnight escape, settle into one of The Port Hotel’s 10 luxury suites. Dating back to 1902, this historic inn blends old-world elegance with modern comfort and includes its own welcoming tavern.
Wisconsin Dells
Make a splash on your next family getaway in the Waterpark Capital of the World. Located about 50 miles northwest of Madison, Wisconsin Dells combines striking natural scenery with endless entertainment. Discover the breathtaking sandstone cliffs and winding canyons of the Wisconsin River with Dells Boat Tours. Choose from a peaceful two-hour cruise through the scenic Upper Dells, experience high-speed excitement on the 50-minute Jet Boat Adventure, or unwind on a sunset dinner cruise complete with surf and turf dining and live music. Climb aboard the Riverside & Great Northern Railway for a scenic two-mile journey through the wooded landscape along the Wisconsin River. Operating mainly during the warmer months, this live steam locomotive train also offers festive seasonal rides, including family-favorite fall pumpkin trains and special holiday-themed excursions.
One of the biggest highlights of Wisconsin Dells is its abundance of indoor entertainment available year-round. The Kalahari Resort and Convention Center stands out as Wisconsin’s largest indoor waterpark, featuring thrilling water slides, relaxing whirlpool spas, and exciting wave simulators for all ages. For a more rustic stay, guests can rent a cozy log cabin at Cedar Lodge & Settlement, set along a scenic stretch of the Wisconsin River. Food lovers will enjoy a truly unique dining experience at The Grateful Shed, where indoor food trucks serve up Wisconsin's street food favorites, including gourmet tacos and classic grilled cheese sandwiches.
Bayfield
Experience the breathtaking natural beauty of the Apostle Islands and the Fruit Loop orchards with a weekend getaway to Northern Wisconsin. Situated along the southern shore of Lake Superior, the lakeside town of Bayfield offers a picture-perfect weekend escape. Known as “Wisconsin’s Crown Jewels,” the Apostle Islands on Lake Superior are a 21-island archipelago, best experienced on The Grand Tour with Apostle Islands Cruises. The 2.5-hour, 55-mile voyage showcases stunning shorelines, historic lighthouses, and the breathtaking sea caves carved into sandstone cliffs.
The famous Bayfield Fruit Loop refers to the beloved self-guided agri-tourism route that passes through over a dozen family-owned farms and orchards on the Bayfield Peninsula. Stop at Hauser’s Superior View Farm to visit the iconic century-old barn and pick-your-own apples while relishing spectacular views of Lake Superior. Every October, Bayfield welcomes visitors to the annual Bayfield Apple Festival, a beloved fall tradition celebrating the region’s rich orchard heritage. Visitors can enjoy a weekend filled with delicious food, artisan vendors, parades, and live music by the lake.
Downtown Bayfield is a walkable historic district known for its beautiful wood and stone architecture. For a relaxed waterfront dining experience, visit Portside Bar & Restaurant at Port Superior Marina, where guests can enjoy casual contemporary seafood while taking in views of the sailboats. Located directly on the downtown district shoreline, Bayfield on the Lake rentals offer two- and four-bedroom condos with fully equipped kitchens and private balconies overlooking the lake.
New Glarus
Welcome to America’s “Little Switzerland.” Situated in the rolling hills of Green County in southern Wisconsin, New Glarus is a picture-perfect agricultural community known for its rich Swiss heritage. The town proudly preserves its old-fashioned charm through its traditional architecture, cultural festivals, and customs that bring a touch of Switzerland to the Midwest.
Celebrate the area’s heritage with a visit to the Chalet of the Golden Fleece, a Swiss Alps-style home filled with international artifacts collected between the early and mid-20th centuries. Savour a hand-crafted beer at New Glarus Brewing Company, best known for its iconic Spotted Cow ales. The brewery offers immersive 3-hour Hard Hat Tours, giving you exclusive behind-the-scenes access to both the Riverside and Hilltop facilities. For wine lovers, Bailey’s Run Vineyard & Winery offers a beautiful escape tucked into the rolling hills surrounding New Glarus. Here, you can sip Wisconsin-made wines and enjoy Neapolitan-style pizza while taking in the stunning countryside views. Every weekend features live music, and throughout the year the vineyard hosts a variety of special events, including intimate wine-and-chocolate pairings, boutique vendor markets, and lively holiday celebrations.
For an authentic taste of Switzerland, visit Glarner Stube, where you can enjoy traditional European dishes like Wiener Schnitzel and Pastetli in a traditional chalet-style setting. When it’s time to unwind, the Chalet Landhaus Inn provides endearing Swiss-style accommodations paired with modern comforts, including an indoor pool and fitness center.
Baraboo
Step right up, folks, for a weekend in Baraboo, Wisconsin. Set against the dramatic Baraboo bluffs and only 40 miles northwest of Madison, this small town delights guests with a mix of beautiful outdoor escapes and a whimsical entertainment drawn from its colorful circus history.
Visitors to Baraboo should make Devil’s Lake State Park a top priority. Its 500-foot quartzite cliffs surround a sparkling 360-acre lake, offering sandy swimming beaches and miles of hiking trails with panoramic views. Baraboo was once the original home of America’s most famous traveling show, the Ringling Bros. Circus, which operated here from 1884 to 1918. Today, the historic grounds are preserved as Circus World Museum, where visitors can explore fascinating exhibits and artifacts and experience the excitement of live Big Top performances each summer.
Explore historic downtown Baraboo, where old-world architecture reflects the height of the city’s circus-era heritage. Attend a musical, play or concert at the Al. Ringling Theatre, designed in the style of a grand French opera house and often called “the prettiest playhouse in America.” When it’s time to dine, enjoy a meal at Little Village Cafe, a beautifully restored 1940s diner featuring a blend of internationally inspired dishes. Stay in a piece of circus history at the Ringling House Bed & Breakfast, the former home of one of the legendary Ringling brothers. Now a beautifully restored inn, it showcases stunning architectural details, including stained-glass windows, original woodwork, and a grand sweeping staircase.
Mineral Point
For an unforgettable weekend in Wisconsin, step back in time in the state’s third-oldest city. Founded by miners from Cornwall, England, the storybook town of Mineral Point is rich in heritage and culture, echoing the look and feel of old-world England. Experience the lives of America’s early settlers at the Pendarvis Historic Site, a beautifully restored cluster of limestone cottages and buildings constructed in the 1800s by Cornish immigrants. The site offers guided tours and immersive exhibits. Afterward, unleash your creativity with a visit to Shake Rag Alley Center for the Arts, where you can explore an impressive range of workshops, from blacksmithing and welding to creative writing, painting, and glassblowing.
Stroll through the Mineral Point Historic District, where beautiful 19th-century buildings showcase a blend of Italianate, Victorian, and Cornish architectural styles. The area is home to a unique mix of antique shops, specialty boutiques, and artisan galleries, including Brewery Pottery, located in a restored brewery that now features a working pottery studio, art gallery, and a small brewery museum. Be sure to indulge in traditional Cornish fare at the Red Rooster Café, a third-generation, family-owned restaurant known for its authentic Cornish pasties, homemade bread pudding, and classic tea biscuits. When it’s time to unwind, the Commerce Street Brewery Hotel offers five luxurious guest rooms, each featuring whirlpool bathtubs and cozy fireplaces, all housed above a charming European-style brewpub.
Elkhart Lake
Indulge in a relaxing weekend at a lakeside community where crystal-clear spring-fed waters blend seamlessly with an inviting upscale atmosphere. Beautiful in every season, the village of Elkhart Lake offers endless outdoor adventures, rejuvenating wellness retreats, exceptional culinary experiences, and welcoming holiday festivities.
Just over an hour from Green Bay, Elkhart Lake is known for its stunning turquoise waters framed by cedar trees, rolling glacial hills, and quiet forests. Spend a relaxing day at Fireman’s Park and beach, the village’s only public shoreline, complete with soft sand, concession stands, picnic areas, and convenient facilities. Elkhart Lake Watersports at The Shore Club offers a full range of rentals and on-the-water activities, including stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, and guided boat cruises.
During the winter months, Elkhart Lake shines with opportunities to enjoy the crisp outdoors, from skating and snowshoeing to exploring miles of snowy hiking trails. Afterward, escape to Aspira Spa, where cozy relaxation and soothing treatments pair perfectly with views of the surrounding winter wonderland. Renowned for its elevated dining scene, Elkhart Lake also offers an array of upscale restaurants with magnificent views of the surrounding scenery. Savor chef-crafted, seasonal dishes paired with exceptional wines at Concourse Restaurant & Lounge, where floor-to-ceiling views of Elkhart Lake create an exceptional dining experience. Overlooking the pristine waters of Elkhart Lake, The Osthoff Resort & Spa is a luxurious lakeside retreat known for its elegant suites, beautiful grounds, and exceptional hospitality.
Potosi
Tucked along the Mississippi River bluffs in southwestern Wisconsin, Potosi is a historic village celebrated for its riverside beauty, rich brewing heritage, and welcoming small-town spirit. Whether you’re craving peaceful outdoor recreation, engaging museums, or simply a great craft beer, Potosi offers plenty to explore on a relaxing weekend getaway. Craft beer lovers won’t want to miss the Potosi Brewing Company. Founded in 1852, this fully restored microbrewery features a cozy brew pub that pours a rotating selection of beers on tap and offers guided brewery tours. It is also home to The National Brewery Museum, showcasing an eclectic collection of bottles, cans, and breweriana memorabilia.
For nature enthusiasts, Potosi Point Recreation Area is designated a National Wildlife Refuge and is visited by over 270 species of birds each year. In the warmer months, enjoy a recreational lazy river floatation experience down the scenic Grant River with a rental from Grant River Tubing Company. Downtown Potosi is a compact historic district lined with 19th-century brick buildings that now house locally owned shops and eateries. For a taste of local hospitality, stop by Twisted Vines Pub and Eatery, a family-run spot serving classic Midwestern comfort foods like cheese curds and hearty sloppy joes, along with live music, karaoke nights, and an old-fashioned jukebox. Just steps away, The Potosi Inn is a welcoming small hotel featuring themed, all-inclusive suites equipped with full kitchenettes for a comfortable, home-like stay.
Ephraim
Relish the most accessible shoreline in Door County, Wisconsin. Set along the tranquil waters of Eagle Harbor, Ephraim is an endearing bayside village known for its iconic white buildings, Scandinavian heritage, and artistic community spirit. One of Ephraim’s most distinctive attractions is the Francis Hardy Gallery, housed in the historic Anderson Warehouse. This beautifully restored red building on the dock showcases rotating collections and exhibitions from both established and emerging Door County artists.
Enjoy the outdoors by canoeing, kayaking, or paddleboarding on the peaceful waters of Eagle Harbor. Ephraim Public Beach is a beloved family spot, offering a 180-foot stretch of soft, fluffy sand, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and witnessing the iconic Ephraim waterfront sunsets. In Ephraim, you’ll find locally owned boutiques and shops tucked along the waterfront and nearby tree-lined streets, offering antiques, artwork, gourmet treats, and Wisconsin-made gifts. Many businesses are housed in beautiful historic buildings, including Beach People Ephraim, a cozy gift shop filled with coastal-inspired décor and keepsakes.
Just up the road in Sister Bay, Boathouse on the Bay overlooks the Sister Bay marina on Green Bay, with an expansive patio and a menu of bistro favorites, comfort dishes, and seafood-focused fare. For those seeking a luxurious retreat, Eagle Harbor Inn delivers classic charm with suites that feature whirlpool tubs and the option of romantic four-poster beds.
Mount Horeb
For a one-of-a-kind Wisconsin weekend getaway, plan a visit to the “Troll Capital of the World.” Set amid the rolling hills of the Driftless Area in southwestern Wisconsin, just 20 miles from Madison, Mount Horeb is celebrated for its whimsical troll statues and rich Norwegian heritage.
Engage in a tradition of Nordic folklore with a free attraction the whole family will enjoy: a self-guided tour of “The Trollway,” a collection of 36 whimsical troll statues hidden throughout town. Also be sure to explore Mount Horeb’s historic Main Street, lined with antique shops, Scandinavian boutiques, and specialty stores filled with Nordic-inspired trinkets. Open House Imports is a must-visit, offering an eclectic selection of Scandinavian gifts, including traditional capes and clogs.
Less than ten minutes from town, Cave of the Mounds is a million-year-old natural wonder open for guided tours and scenic hikes. From December to January, the caves transform with festive lights, vibrant holiday trees, and magical special effects. Quench your thirst at The Grumpy Troll Brew Pub, a local favorite known for its award-winning ales and lagers and a menu filled with hearty Wisconsin comfort food and globally inspired dishes, from Friday fish frys to grilled cheese and calzones. For an irresistibly endearing stay, book a room at The Little Village, a beautifully modernized 12-room historic motel located minutes from the town’s boutiques and bakeries.
Sister Bay
Discover the charm of Sister Bay, one of Door County’s most beloved waterfront villages for family vacations. Offering 1,900 feet of public waterfront and a walkable downtown with shops and cafes, the town blends classic coastal beauty with Midwestern hospitality. For summer travelers, Sister Bay Beach is the place to be, complete with a sandy shoreline, a relaxed waterfront park, shaded picnic areas, and a walkable pier. Just steps away, the marina buzzes with watersports, boat rentals, and guided outings. Companies like Sister Bay Boat Tours offer everything from scenic narrated excursions to sunset cruises with live music.
Sister Bay’s walkable downtown is filled with unique boutiques and specialty shops. A standout is Door County Creamery, a one-of-a-kind café and creamery serving artisan cheeses and gelato made from goat’s milk sourced from local Wisconsin farms. Make time for a visit to Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant & Butik, a beloved family-run spot offering authentic Swedish dishes like pancakes with lingonberries and traditional Swedish meatballs. This iconic spot features a welcoming beer garden, a Scandinavian gift shop, and its most whimsical claim to fame: goats happily roaming the grassy rooftop. Situated in a peaceful wooded setting and just a ten-minute walk from scenic Pebble Beach, Nordic Lodge offers comfortable, contemporary accommodations, including standard guest rooms and spacious apartments with full kitchenettes.
Lac du Flambeau
Experience the vibrant Native American heritage woven into Wisconsin’s story with a visit to Lac du Flambeau. Tucked in the Northwoods and home to the Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, this small community invites visitors to explore Ojibwe traditions, cultural attractions, and historic sites, all while enjoying a peaceful weekend escape surrounded by serene lakes, forests, and natural beauty.
For outdoor adventurers, Flambeau Lake offers calm, crystal-clear waters ideal for kayaking, canoeing, and swimming. Visitors can also rent premium pontoon boats from local outfitters, such as Black Bear Pontoon Boat Rentals, perfect for spending a few relaxing hours or an entire day on the lake with family and friends. The dining scene in Lac du Flambeau offers a cozy mix of local spots serving hearty comfort foods in generous portions. The Flame Bar & Grill is a family-friendly, dockside favorite known for its juicy burgers. If you’re up for camping, Lac du Flambeau Campground and Marina offers campsites and RV hookups with unbeatable lakefront views.
Unforgettable Wisconsin Weekends Await
From Swiss-inspired villages to communities shaped by Norwegian, Cornish, and proud Indigenous roots, each of these twelve small towns in Wisconsin blends scenic landscapes with Old-World charm, celebrating traditions that have endured for generations. You’ll also find places with wonderfully unique character, like colorful circus heritage, lively entertainment scenes, and touches of whimsical folklore. Together, they showcase Wisconsin’s perfect mix of culture, history, and outdoor adventure, offering countless small-town destinations ideal for a memorable weekend getaway.
