Fall is the perfect time to visit and explore Wisconsin, as the weather starts to cool down and the colors become ever so vibrant. You’ll find fall festivals with unique traditions and seasonal specialities like pumpkin-flavored wine and apple cider donuts.
I love spending the fall months in my home state because there are so many places to see incredible fall colors in Wisconsin.
While the entire state turns into an autumn wonderland, this post details 5 of the top spots for fall color getaways in Wisconsin.
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Fall Color Getaways in Wisconsin
Door County
If you’re looking for scenic drives, beautiful hikes, and numerous state parks, Door County is the spot for you. Located on the peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, Door County is an idyllic getaway famous for its beautiful fall colors.
During your visit, take a drive through Peninsula State Park or hike on one of the park’s many trails. For an iconic Door County fall view, drive highway 42, between Timberline Road and Ports des Morts Drive where there are 15 curves.
Door County also has plenty of activities for you to partake in during your visit. Check out the Door County Wine Trail which features 10 Door County wineries and sample pumpkin-flavored wines or ciders. You will also want to make sure you plan a visit to an orchard or farm market for all of the fall fun.
Madison
The capital of Wisconsin is a beautiful spot to take in the autumnal colors and all of the season’s offerings. Enjoy the colors from the miles of bike paths, lakeside trails, outdoor restaurants, and local farms.
Grab a PSL or your favorite warm beverage from one of several local coffee shops and head for a stroll along Lake Monona. The Lakeshore Path along Lake Mendota is also gorgeous as the leaves change color and start to cover the ground.
Another favorite spot is the top of Bascom Hill on the University of Wisconsin campus. From the top you can see all the way down State Street to the Wisconsin State Capitol Building, and the views with the fall colors are incredible.
If you’re looking to pick out the perfect pumpkins and hang out with animals, the Madison-area is home to many local farms. You’ll find farms that offer everything from apple- and pumpkin-picking to wagon rides and candy cannons. Check out my Top Farms for Fall Fun post to plan your Madison farm adventure.
Bayfield & The Apostle Islands
Located along the shores of Lake Superior and the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Bayfield turns into beautiful shades of red, yellow, and orange as cooler weather enters the area.
Bayfield is known as the Berry Capital of Wisconsin and has a Fruit Loop you can drive to access over a dozen apple orchards and berry farms. During the fall season, this loop is an excellent drive to see fall colors from the country roads.
If you’re looking to view the changing leaves from the lake, consider taking an Apostle Island Cruise (runs through October 20th, 2024) or kayak along the sea caves.
Lake Geneva
Head to Lake Geneva for an event-filled fall color getaway in Wisconsin, complete with beautiful water views and fall colors galore. Whether you want to spend a getaway golfing or browsing shops, Lake Geneva has something for you.
If you’re looking for a hike, make sure to check out the Geneva Lake Shore Path where you’ll see mansions shaded by colorful trees. Big Foot Beach State Park also offers hiking paths and a small beach area.
Additional activities in Lake Geneva include apple picking and petting animals at the local farms, wine tasting, and taking a scenic drive around the lake.
St. Croix Falls
St. Croix Falls, filled with so many outdoor activities, is the perfect spot to enjoy fall colors. Hike along the Ice Age Trail from the Western Terminus in Interstate Park or kayak down the St. Croix River, weaving between the Wisconsin and Minnesota border. Downtown St. Croix Falls is also home to a great BBQ stop, a cute coffee shop, and a few bars.
Across the St. Croix River is Taylors Falls, Minnesota where you’ll find an equal amount of outdoor activities to enjoy the fall colors.
If you’re looking to camp or glamp, consider staying at Big Rock Creek. The property is tree-filled and beautiful.
When is the Fall Season in Wisconsin?
The best time to see fall colors in Wisconsin is typically mid-September through the end of November. Of course, there are several factors that contribute to the timing of the colors and different parts of the state, such as the northern portion, change first.
How to Get to Wisconsin?
If you are coming to Wisconsin to view fall colors, chances are you will want a car so you can drive and see the colors. I’d recommend road-tripping if it’s a feasible option for you, otherwise flying and picking up a rental car at the airport.
Wisconsin’s biggest airport is Mitchell International Airport (MKE) in Milwaukee, but there are several other airports like the Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) in Madison and the Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) in Green Bay.
Depending on where you’ll be staying in Wisconsin, you can also consider the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) or the Chicago Airports – Midway International Airport (MDW) and O’Hare International Airport (ORD).
Happy Fall!
I hope you enjoy the best fall season and get the chance to experience all that Wisconsin has to offer this time of year.
