The crisp, fall air might have you heading indoors. But it needn't. Fall might be the best time to take a road trip in Wisconsin. Head to one of these eight places for a great fall experience.
1. Holy Hill
Making the trip down to Erin, Wisconsin to see Holy Hill is worth the trip anytime. The architecture and building is magnificent. But if you really want to see it in all of its glory, go when the leaves have started to change. It just pops. From the top, you can get an awesome view of the changing tree tops. Phenomenal.
2. Lake Geneva
Many people think of Lake Geneva as a place to head to during the height of the summer. But actually, it is a great place to head to during autumn. Many of the tourists are gone and the kids are in school. Reconnect with your sweetheart and stay at a great hotel or bed and breakfast (at a reduced rate, yay!). If you get a warm enough day, you can still enjoy some wine on a patio overlooking the lake. And if you have kids, there is a Fall Family Festival coming up from October 9-12.
3. Devil's Lake State Park
Again, Wisconsin Dells/Baraboo tends to be so crowded during summer with all of the tourists. Beat the tourist trap and come during the fall. This park will look even more magnificent with the changing foliage. It's also so much nicer to hike when it's not so sticky and hot. Since you won't be heading to the water parks (or at least you will go to the indoor ones), it gives you a chance to explore other attractions such as the great dining opportunities, Wizard Quest (which Harry Potter fans will love), and more. There is also a Fall Festival Weekend during October 16-18, where there will be pumpkin decorating, live music, and, of course, beer.
4. Peninsula State Park
To continue our trend, Door County tends to be populated during the summer. Why not head up during the fall to sample some wine, dine at wonderful restaurants, and enjoy the changing colors? There's nowhere better to see the changing leaves than at Peninsula State Park. And if you really don't want to walk, you can always rent a moped from Edge of Park.
5. Ice Age Trail
This trail was developed, as the name suggests, from geologic activity during the Ice Age. The result: absolute beauty. This trail goes for over 1,000 miles, winding across Wisconsin, which means there is no excuse not to take these views in--especially during the fall. The trail is wonderful for outdoor enthusiasts. But even if you aren't all about the outdoors, make an exception for this trail. Because of the glacier, the features are unique, anyway, but are definitely enhanced during the fall.
6. Madison
The best time to experience the beauty of this collegiate town is during the fall--hands down. Go back to school for a weekend, and tailgate like crazy before a big game between Wisconsin and one of our rivals. There is nothing like football during fall. After the game, head downtown to one of the many restaurants and, later, to a great tavern. It's a fantastic way to take in the season.
7. Mill Bluff State Park
These geological features will make your eyes pop out during anytime of the year, with these large bluffs sort of unexpectedly jutting out from the flat plains. It's even more phenomenal during the fall, with all of the covered trees. There are camping opportunities here until late September, which would be great to do after a long day hiking. Make sure to bring a sleeping bag!
8. Blue Mounds
Blue Mound State Park one of the best places in all of Wisconsin to observe the changing leaves due to unique geological features and vantage points. It's a hiker and biker's delight, with 20 miles to explore. Depending on when you go, you can still get a camping trip in and huddle around the fire. What a great way to start fall with the family.
What are your must-go places to enjoy the fall? Let us know in the comments.
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