11 Incredible Vacation Spots In Wisconsin
Wisconsin's diverse landscapes present travelers with plenty of vacation destinations. Whether traveling alone, with a spouse, or with family, there is no shortage of spectacular locations where nature, culture, and adventure come together. The state is home to charming small towns, vibrant cities, and stunning lakeshores, each offering its own brand of appeal. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike forest trails, kayak crystal-clear water bodies, or enjoy world-class fishing, while those seeking relaxation can unwind at cozy cabins or scenic resorts.
Furthermore, food lovers will appreciate Wisconsin’s famous cheese, craft breweries, and farm-to-table dining, as history buffs explore enduring cultural landmarks and museums. From the peaceful shores of Door County to the natural beauty of the Driftless Area, these delightful vacation spots in Wisconsin deliver lasting memories.
Bayfield
Bayfield is the perfect jumping-off point for tourists looking to explore the Apostle Islands. The town promises a day-long itinerary full of exciting adventures, starting with a remarkable voyage with Apostle Island Cruises. This company offers narrated tours into the heart of Lake Superior, treating visitors to spectacular sandstone cliffs, isolated islands, underground caves, and other captivating landscapes. Hikers are welcome to discover the undisturbed trails snaking through the Big Ravine Nature Preserve, home to scenic landscapes and breathtaking vistas of the lake.
The Bayfield Maritime Museum covers the community's nautical history through interesting stories dating back to the early days, featuring pleasure boaters, innovators, and other groups that have plied the surrounding waters through the years. This is a short walk from the Old Rittenhouse Inn, where you can find cozy accommodation. Finally, when you need to replenish after hours of adventure, you can pop into Manypenny Bistro and enjoy delicious pizzas and sandwiches.
Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells delivers one of the most adrenaline-filled family getaways you can experience in the state. The Waterpark Capital of the World attracts excited visitors year-round with its world-class amusement centers, including Kalahari Indoor Waterpark. Children and adults alike enjoy a variety of fun rides, water slides, and heated pools, with access to family-friendly accommodation at Kalahari Resort & Conventions. The Ripley's Believe It or Not museum thrills guests with a quirky collection of peculiar artifacts, oddities, art, and paraphernalia that leave guests questioning their logic.
Elsewhere, first-timers can look forward to rare wildlife encounters at the Wisconsin Deer Park. This 40-acre sanctuary harbors at least 100 deer, bison, elk, and other native species. Finally, don't miss out on laid-back cruises down the Wisconsin River courtesy of the Original Wisconsin Ducks.
Baraboo
This riverside gem in Sauk County is known for its circus heritage and stunning outdoor scenery. The famous Ringling Brothers circus established its winter headquarters in the late 1800s, a heritage that continues to endure today at Circus World. Currently serving as a museum, the facility showcases an array of circus-related artifacts and hosts daily live performances through the summer. The Ringling Theatre is a stark reminder of the brothers' influence on the city and helps connect the community with the arts through different live performances.
Baraboo is also home to beautiful natural spaces, inviting adventurers to make the most of hiking opportunities along the Baraboo Riverwalk. This 3-mile paved route straddles the banks of the Baraboo River as it winds through the city. Meanwhile, Mirror Lake State Park is an idyllic natural playground with a swimming beach, hiking trails, boating ramps, and picnic areas. Those seeking comfortable lodging options can settle for Best Western Baraboo Inn, a short walk from Circus World.
Lake Geneva
This waterfront gem in southeastern Wisconsin provides one of the best vacation spots in Wisconsin for families seeking the ultimate getaway. Lake Geneva's relaxed atmosphere and natural beauty allow guests to let loose and revel in the serenity, with access to winding trails and sandy picnic spaces at Big Foot Beach State Park. This 270-acre sanctuary is also an escape for swimmers, campers, and fishermen.
A lazy walk down the Geneva Lake Shore Path spoils guests with majestic views of the water while exposing them to historic mansions built over a century ago. The Lake Geneva Cruise Line presents an unmissable experience for first-timers in the area, offering an easygoing sail along the shoreline as an expert tour guide narrates captivating stories from the early days. Guests have no shortage of options when it comes to accommodation, but the Geneva Inn places you right on the lakeshore.
Fish Creek
Fish Creek is where travelers go to vacation when they want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. This small community in Door County draws millions of annual visitors focused on exploring the vast Peninsula State Park. Straddling more than 3,700 acres, the natural area hosts a mix of forests, lake shoreline, trails, and campsites, providing adventures with countless recreational opportunities. Guests can seek isolation at Sunset Beach Park, a serene spot where you can sit back and enjoy magnificent sunsets over the glittering waters of Green Bay.
A sightseeing excursion with friends or family courtesy of Fish Creek Scenic Boat Tours provides a unique perspective of the region's natural allure from the water, featuring sightings of sandstone bluffs, underwater caverns, and hidden beaches. For indoor lovers, the Alexander Noble House Museum offers an opportunity to step back into the past inside a 19th-century Greek Revival farmhouse. A few minutes' walk from the site brings you to Whistling Swan Inn, one of the best spots to rest and rejuvenate downtown.
Washington Island
A 30-minute ride by ferry takes vacationers to this fantastic island off the coast of Door County, promising laid-back vibes and natural wonders at every turn. One of the sought-after attractions in Washington Island is Schoolhouse Beach, which leaves newcomers stunned with its smooth limestone pebbles and crystal-clear waters. This popular swimming spot also features a picnic area where you can sit and play with the white rocks. The Jackson Harbor Maritime Museum uses an interactive collection of exhibits to bring back to life interesting stories about nautical expeditions in the area through the years.
Visitors will have a blast sampling the island's booming art scene at the Trueblood Performing Arts Center. This multi-purpose cultural venue hosts everything from concerts and plays to lectures and other public presentations throughout the year. For accommodation, the Harbor Inn Resort offers a cool spot to rest your head, surrounded by lush nature.
Cedarburg
Cedarburg sits less than 30 minutes north of Milwaukee, making it a worthy weekend getaway for those seeking a reprieve from the city's hustle and bustle. This beautiful community mixes history, arts, and nature to entertain its visitors across the four seasons. A tour of the Cedarburg History Museum reveals that the area was first settled in the 1840s, with numerous artifacts and archives documenting the town's history at different periods of its existence. The Cedarburg Art Museum focuses on the community's arts community and showcases cool artworks inside a 19th-century Victorian home.
Cedarburg presents multiple options for outdoorsy guests to step outside and enjoy the open spaces, including Cedar Creek Park. This tranquil oasis sits on the banks of Cedar Creek and features gentle walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds for the whole family. If you appreciate a rustic lodging experience, the 19th-century Washington House Inn is an easy choice to spend the night.
Elkhart Lake
A fun-filled vacation by water beckons in this lakefront community in Sheboygan County, famous for its natural splendor and welcoming vibe. Elkhart Lake is a haven for outdoor lovers, beckoning them with quiet moments on the beach at Fireman's Park. This idyllic natural space attracts swimmers, hikers, loungers, and picnickers seeking to be one with nature. Also, golfers of diverse skill levels can take on a friendly challenge at Quit Qui OC Golf Club, which boasts a 27-hole championship course with manicured fairways.
Elkhart Lake has an active restaurant culture to ensure there are no hungry stomachs in town. When you want something to munch on, you can head to Paddock Club for sumptuous American dishes, accompanied by refreshing artisanal cocktails. Finally, Osthoff Resort & Spa is probably the best hotel choice in the town, reputed for its calming lakefront setting and opulent amenities.
Chippewa Falls
Chippewa Falls is a beautiful riverside community with an impressive blend of natural beauty, historical heritage, and outdoor adventures. The town calls on first-time visitors to get acquainted with its dynamic history at the Chippewa Area History Center. On exhibit is a fine selection of memorabilia, relics, and archives narrating years of local history. Also, the Chippewa Falls Museum of Industry & Technology takes a unique look into the fields of industry and technology by highlighting groundbreaking innovations contributing to the development of the Chippewa Valley.
A 1,000-acre playground at Lake Wissota State Park invites vacationers to commune with nature through hiking, picnicking, boating, fishing, and other activities. Alternatively, they can visit the Irvine Park Zoo for exotic encounters with a range of wildlife, including tigers and black bears. Lastly, staying at the Cobblestone Hotel & Suites places you in a central position near all the major points of interest in downtown.
Wausau
Wausau is a four-season destination in central Wisconsin, recognized for its outdoor adventures, vibrant art landscape, and captivating history. One of the highlights for tourists in the area is discovering Rib Mountain State Park. This 1,500-acre natural space rewards explorers with unlimited recreational opportunities across its hiking trails, picnic areas, camping spots, and vantage points. Art is at the heart of the community, and enthusiasts visit the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum to witness ever-changing year-round exhibitions.
Performance art lovers also make the most of engaging stage productions at the Grand Theater, which focuses on musicals, dramas, and other artistic performances inside an elegant 19th-century venue. Finally, remember to tour the Yawkey House Museum for a glimpse of Wausau in the early 1900s. Lastly, book a room at the Hilton Garden Inn Wausau for a luxurious lodging experience.
Sister Bay
A vacation in this hidden gem of Door County promises delicious farm-to-table eats, relaxation on the beach, and soothing cruises on the water. Sister Bay houses an impressive cluster of restaurants for a small town, and one of its most recognizable diners is Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant. Apart from serving sumptuous Swedish fare, this unique establishment has a grass roof where patrons can watch live goat grazing. Thanks to its waterfront setting, the town welcomes guests to take it easy on the lengthy shoreline at Sister Bay Beach. This sandy stretch always jostles with swimmers, beachcombers, and picnickers lured by the serenity.
However, those who fancy cruises on the water can hop on the Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours to explore the pristine waters of Green Bay during a laid-back, narrated tour. If you are not sparing expenses on accommodation, consider sleeping at Birchwood Lodge, within walking distance from the beach.
Final Thoughts
Whether drawn to adventures in the great outdoors, sumptuous farm-to-table cuisine, or serene waterfront retreats, these top vacation spots in Wisconsin cater to every traveler’s interests. From the lovely beauty of Door County to the vibrant culture of the Swiss communities, each destination showcases the state's welcoming spirit and scenic charm. With so many diverse experiences packed into one state, it’s easy to see why the Dairy State continues to be a favorite getaway in the United States.
