If you’re on the search for the perfect weekend getaway, look no further than the great state of Wisconsin. From quaint towns with delicious restaurants and cute shops to big cities filled with endless activities, Wisconsin has something for everyone to enjoy.
In this post, I’ll showcase a few of the top weekend getaway destinations across the Badger State, ensuring you have the best Wisconsin weekend getaway complete with the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.
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Wisconsin Weekend Getaway Destinations:
Fish Creek, Door County
Door County is one of the most picturesque spots in Wisconsin, located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan.
While all of the towns that make up Door County are unique and charming, I recommend staying in Fish Creek where you are close to local specialty shops, delicious restaurants, and outdoor activities like outfitters and state parks.
Check into one of Fish Creek’s many motels, lodges, or boutique rentals and begin enjoying the beauty and peace of the area. Consider starting with breakfast at Julie’s Park Cafe or the White Gull Inn before browsing the shops that line Main Street.
For lunch, head to BaySide Tavern and then spend the afternoon exploring Peninsula State Park (check out my full guide to help you plan). Make sure not to miss the Eagle Tower that provides sweeping views of Green Bay and the surrounding area.
If you are feeling adventurous, consider this Cave Point Kayak Tour where you’ll explore the caves of Cave Point County Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park.
Restaurants like Alexander’s of Door County provide a fine dining experience and One Barrel Brewing – Door County just down the road in Egg Harbor is the perfect post-dinner spot for a beer and gathering with friends.
All of Door County is incredibly pet-friendly so consider bringing your pup on this getaway! Check out 6 Dog-Friendly Lodging Options in Door County to help plan your weekend getaway.
Where to Stay in Fish Creek:
– Peninsula State Park (camping)
– Julie’s Park Cafe and Motel (pet-friendly option)
– Harbor Guest House (suites available and along the water)
Madison
Home to the state capitol and the Wisconsin Badgers, Madison provides all the fun of a college town along with plenty of history, arts, and outdoor adventure.
Depending on when you visit, enjoy a morning brunch aboard the famous Betty Lou Cruise or grab delicious fruits and pastries as you stroll along the square for the renowned Dane County Farmers’ Market.
Rated a platinum-level bicycle-friendly community, bike-lovers will enjoy the miles of trails Madison has to offer. If you’re interested in exploring the city via bike, consider taking this 2-hour guided e-bike tour.
The trails are even plowed in the winter so bring your fat-tire bike and you’re set for your getaway.
And no matter what season you visit, the area lakes always have something going on, whether it’s kayaking and SUP yoga or ice fishing.
And it wouldn’t be a visit to Madison without checking out the city’s nightlife. Breweries and cocktail lounges are plentiful around the city and most offer a delicious NA/mocktail offering as well.
Some favorites include Vintage Brewing Co, The Cider Farm, Stateline Distillery, and Young Blood Beer Company. I even put together a list of top cocktail spots in Madison to help you decide which spots to visit.
Where to Stay in Madison:
– Edgewater Hotel (water views and excellent spa services)
– Graduate by Hilton Madison (heart of campus and rooftop bar) –> Camp Trippalindee
– Best Western Premiere Park Hotel (located on the Capitol Square)
Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is an underrated getaway destination located in the southeast corner of Wisconsin. About an hour and a half southeast of Madison and two hours northwest of Chicago, Lake Geneva is known for its stunning golf courses, beautiful beaches, and 26-mile Lake Shore Path.
While you’re visiting the area, consider a fun tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Line (Tripadvisor details) where you can take a Mailboat Tour and see how postmasters deliver mail to about 75 homes around the lake. The narrated Best of the Lake Cruise that details the estates around the lake is also incredible.
Other activities to put on your Lake Geneva agenda include a visit to Yerkes Observatory which is now open to the public for tours and Big Foot Beach State Park.
Where to Stay in Lake Geneva:
– Big Foot Beach State Park (camping)
– Grand Geneva Resort and Spa (4-star resort, luxury)
– Lake Lawn Resort (affordable luxury with gorgeous views)
– Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott (budget-friendly option)
Milwaukee
The largest city in the state of Wisconsin with a population of over 500,000, Milwaukee provides a big-city feel without all of the people and traffic.
I love that Milwaukee has such a wide variety of activities to offer, so even if the weather doesn’t pan out for your trip, there’s always an excellent back-up option.
Spend your getaway exploring local museums like the Milwaukee Art Museum or the Milwaukee Public Museum. Visiting the Mitchell Park Domes are a must for any first-time visitor.
Foodies will enjoy all of the offerings at the Milwaukee Public Market and unique dining options, such as CAVAS and The Wolf on Broadway.
During the summer months, enjoy Lake Michigan and soak up some sun at Bradford Beach before hitting up one of several beer gardens in the city.
And don’t forget to see if Wisconsin’s MLB team, the Milwaukee Brewers are in town during your visit.
Where to Stay in Milwaukee:
– The Iron Horse Hotel (artsy boutique hotel)
– The Pfister (historic luxury)
– Westin Milwaukee (high-end brand)
Minocqua
If you’re looking for a northern Wisconsin getaway, consider visiting Minocqua, Wisconsin in Oneida County. The town is about 3 hours north of Madison and is the cutest northern resort town.
You’ll find the town active in the summer months with cabin-goers and visitors enjoying the local restaurants, such as The Thirsty Whale and Lakeside Grill in between shopping the downtown stores.
With lakes galore in this part of the state, boating and fishing are huge area attractions. There’s even a local water-ski team, the Min-Aqua Bats that put on free ski shows every Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday at 7pm throughout the summer.
The area is home to excellent biking and hiking trails, including the Bearskin State Trail. There are also several waterfalls nearby if you’re looking for a bit of an outdoor adventure during your northern Wisconsin getaway.
In the winter, adventure on more than 1,600 miles of snowmobiling trails, ice fish on one of the area’s many lakes, or cross-country ski or snowshoe on several trail options.After your outdoor winter adventure, cozy up with a warm drink and book next to the fireplace.
Where to Stay in Minocqua:
– Pointe Resort & Club (luxury lakeside condos)
– AmericInn by Wyndham Minocqua (budget-friendly option)
– Best Western Plus Concord Inn (pet-friendly option)
– The Waters of Minocqua (family-friendly option)
– Airbnb (private cabins and rentals)
Baraboo
While Baraboo is most commonly associated with the Waterpark Capital of the World (the Wisconsin Dells), the city is home to so much more beyond the waterslides.
Home of the Ringling Brothers, explore all things circus at Circus World, a Wisconsin Historic Site (closed for the season from end of September through March).
Downtown Baraboo is also home to several local shops, and a popular spot for drinks, Driftless Glen Distillery.
Those seeking outdoor adventures will enjoy Ice Age National Scenic Trail segments that traverse the area. The area is also home to two state parks: Devil’s Lake State Park and Mirror Lake State Park.
Ishnala Supper Club is nestled within Mirror Lake State Park and is a gorgeous spot for a romantic getaway dinner.
While there is often a long wait for a table, you can hike while you wait (pagers have a range of about 1 mile) or enjoy drinks and appetizers at one of the club’s four bars. All with a fantastic view!
Where to Stay in Baraboo:
– The Kahlahari and The Wilderness Resort (family-friendly, waterpark access)
– The Inn at Wawanissee Point (B&B with with views of Lake Wisconsin)
– Best Western Baraboo Inn or Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Baraboo (budget-friendly options)
Sheboygan
Sheboygan, Wisconsin is a city of about 50,000 just around 50 miles north of Milwaukee. It is situated along Lake Michigan and is known as being the “Malibu of the Midwest” and the “Bratwurst Capital of the World”.
In the summer months you can enjoy events in the parks, long walks along the waterfronts, the weekly outdoor farmer market, and plenty of activities on the lake.
During the winter, browse the shops that make up the adorable downtown, dine at one of the numerous delicious area restaurants (check out this post on the best restaurants), or try your hand at surfing – surprisingly best during the winter months.
The area is also home to several must-visit spots such as the John Kohler Art Center and Preserve, Bookworm Gardens, and the ENORMOUS Acuity Flag.
Check out my 3-Day Weekend Getaway to Sheboygan guide to help you plan your perfect escape.
Where to Stay in Sheboygan:
– Blue Harbor Resort (lake-front resort – my top recommendation)
– Watershed Hotel (river views)
– Hilton Home2Suites (budget-friendly option)
Final Thoughts
With so many great weekend getaway options, where will you head first? Let me know your favorite getaway spot in the comments!
