Nature is slowly reclaiming an old resort that once entertained wealthy guests in southern Wisconsin. Paradise Springs Nature Area was once home to an opulent resort and horse track, but today it’s in ruins; a place where visitors can take in a refreshing scene and hike past natural springs while seeing what’s left of a developer’s dreams. Here’s what’s waiting for you at Paradise Springs.
Paradise Springs Nature Area is a state-managed park that’s located in southern Wisconsin, just northwest of the community of Eagle. It’s about 45 minutes from downtown Milwaukee, but it feels a world away.
The park is located in the Kettle Moraine State Forest, a 56,000-acre state forest that contains rugged terrain and a landscape shaped by glaciers. Paradise Springs is located in the southern unit of the forest.
Paradise Springs is named for the cold and clear natural springs that are found here. It’s a place that has drawn visitors since the 1800s and it has also been called Minnehaha and Eagle Rock Springs.
In the 1920s, a developer built a spring house and recreational facilities like shuffleboard and tennis courts, a horse racing track, and a wading pool. There was also a bottling plant that captured clean, clear spring water.
But none of it was meant to last. The hotel closed and was removed in the 1970s and today, trails lead walkers through overgrown ruins. The buildings are slowly being reclaimed by nature, but a short and pleasant paved hiking path takes visitors past the ruins that remain.
A Wisconsin State Parks sticker is required to park at Paradise Springs. Printed brochures with more information about the area are available on site for a small fee. If you enjoy hiking into the past, here’s a trail that will take you to the original Badger State Ruins.
A Wisconsin lakefront paradise was much closer than I realized. Just an hour from my Madison home, I found myself arriving at Lake Lawn Resort in Delavan, Wisconsin. Stretching along two miles of gorgeous Delavan Lake shoreline, this historic Wisconsin resort has been around for nearly 150 years, and it’s better than ever. It offers an ideal getaway experience: a relaxing dose of classic Wisconsin lake life and all the modern amenities that make travel easy and comfortable. My visit came at the perfect time - I’ve been working some long hours, and I really needed to press pause for a weekend. Lake Lawn Resort was waiting for me, and it was the perfect escape.
advertisement
Per journalistic integrity, we disclose that the writer of this piece was invited to this location by Lake Lawn Resort, with expenses covered. However, all opinions and thoughts expressed in this piece are their own.
When I arrived at Lake Lawn Resort, I knew I was someplace special. I passed the resort’s airport, a nice perk for those who fly private.
The resort recently completed a $10 million renovation to guest rooms, the latest improvements to this longtime resort. My room had a well-equipped kitchen, two bathrooms, a fireplace, and some tasteful lake life details – I felt like I had escaped to my own little lake home!
Guests have enjoyed this relaxing view for a very long time. In the 1800s, this was a the home base of a traveling circus, during the boom times of the circus era. A guest house was built in 1878, which was followed by the original 50-room Lake Lawn Hotel in 1883.
After welcoming decades of visitors, resort still retains a timeless feel, but it’s equipped to serve guests of today.
There’s a soft sand beach and kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, wave runners, power boats, and more. I took a kayak for a spin on the lake’s cool waters. If you have your own boat, the resort also has a 261-slip marina.
The Lake Lawn Queen departs from the resort, as well – its a 76-foot, two-level cruise boat.
It offers a variety of tours and excursions, including sunset cruises, trips past the lake’s Frank Lloyd Wright homes, and special wine and dinner cruises.
advertisement
While I visited the resort on a beautiful summer day, it’s a four-season resort.
In the wintertime, some guests even go ice fishing or cross-country skiing right from the resort property. The resort also has a well-equipped fitness center, indoor and outdoor pools, and full spa services.
“We have such an amazing growing climate,” he said. “My hope, as a chef in Wisconsin, is to make Wisconsin’s regional cuisine the heart of what we do here.”
There’s nothing like a stay in a historic Wisconsin Lake resort. My time at Lake Lawn Resort was over far too quickly - I’m hoping to plan a return trip! Learn more about Lake Lawn Resort on its Hotels.com listing. Planning a Wisconsin adventure? Here are some products that will make your time outdoors even better!
Are you looking for the best hotels in Wisconsin? Let us help you find the perfect one. From unique hotels that bring out the geek in all of us to luxurious resorts that treat us to endless pampering, we have the best picks for an unforgettable getaway in the Dairy State.
advertisement
Best Unique Hotels to Stay in Wisconsin
If you’re searching for a new and exciting way to travel, why not try staying at a unique hotel? It’ll be more fun than staying at your average cookie-cutter hotel and will help create a more memorable experience.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 5.0 stars
The Charmant Hotel in La Crosse is a trendy, high-end hotel set in a converted candy factory from 1898, just minutes away from the banks of the Mississippi River. Room features include elegant exposed brick walls, rainfall showers, and minibars. Guests can enjoy free parking, an onsite gym, and a variety of dining options, including a sweet shop.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and laundry service.
Ratings: 4.7 stars
advertisement
Saint Kate is a stylish and art-filled hotel in the bustling East Town neighborhood and is a short walk from the Milwaukee Art Museum. The individually decorated rooms at this hotel boast beautiful artwork and unique furnishings, including flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and fun musical equipment. Amenities include multiple dining options, a fitness center, and 24-hour room service.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 9.1 / 10 stars
advertisement
Castle La Crosse Bed and Breakfast is a sophisticated bed and breakfast housed in a castle from 1891 within walking distance from lush hiking trails at Riverside Park and is only four miles from the popular attraction, Grandad Bluff. The bed and breakfast has spacious rooms, a cozy library with a fireplace, and an outdoor garden. Start your mornings with a delicious breakfast in a lavish dining room, and end your evenings by reading a book on the screened-in porch.
Best Hotel Pools in Wisconsin
Are you traveling with the kids or a large group and want to stay at a Wisconsin hotel with a pool? We have some great options on this list. These hotels have received high ratings from guests, so you can be sure you'll have a great time.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 4.0 stars
The Wilderness Resort in Wisconsin Dells is a great place to stay for a family-friendly getaway. It has several lodging options on 600 wooded acres, and all rooms come with free wifi and flat-screen TVs. Admissions to the outdoor and indoor waterparks are free, and you'll have easy access to the golf course, go-kart trail, and activity club for an additional fee.
advertisement
5. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Appleton, Appleton
Conveniently located off highway I-41 and two miles from the sports complex, Community First Champion Center is where you'll find Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott in Appleton. Comfortable guest rooms offer minifridges, microwaves, and coffeemakers. The hotel also has a fitness center and a crystal-clear indoor pool.
Best Luxury Hotels in Wisconsin
Relax and kick back at one of these luxury hotels, where you’ll indulge in outstanding service and lavish amenities like full-service spa facilities, golf courses, and onsite restaurants.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, indoor pool, and air conditioning.
Ratings: 9.1 / 10 stars
advertisement
The Pfister Hotel, built in 1893, is a luxurious Victorian-era hotel within walking distance from Milwaukee's must-see attractions. The hotel's historic rooms are furnished with traditional items, while the sleek and modern tower rooms have a more sophisticated decor. Some rooms even have marble bathrooms with whirlpool tubs. Amenities include many dining options, including a steakhouse and martini bar. Enjoy the spa and indoor pool with lake views on the 23rd floor.
Set in a historic 1918 building under a mile from the affiliated Blackwolf Run golf course is where you'll find the posh 5-star hotel, The American Club in Kholer. Check in to the luxurious rooms and suites and indulge in superb amenities such as complimentary shuttle service throughout the property, spa, restaurants, and fitness center.
Best Boutique Hotels in Wisconsin
Do you enjoy staying near all the action? Then why not choose a boutique hotel for your next trip to Wisconsin? Boutique hotels are sleek and modern, providing all the customary amenities you need for a comfortable stay in an excellent location.
Lodge Kohler in Green Bay is a chic, trendy hotel across the street from Lambeau Field, making it the perfect location if you're attending the Packers game. Polished rooms feature wifi and flat-screen TVs, while suites offer living areas and views of the stadium. Take advantage of the excellent onsite amenities such as the spa, indoor pool, and top-floor restaurant.
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, breakfast, and pet-friendly.
Ratings: 8.8 / 10 stars
The Delafield Hotel is in a charming redbrick building overlooking Kettle Moraine. It is a 90-minute drive from Chicago, making it a perfect location for a weekend holiday. Check in at the front desk and find your suite, which features plush linens, high ceilings, and modern bathrooms. Complimentary amenities offer parking and a fitness center.
Best Lakefront Resorts in Wisconsin
For a breathtaking view and some of the best accommodations around, these Wisconsin resorts are perfect for your next weekend escape.
The Edgewater Hotel in Madison is a sparkling waterfront hotel in a fantastic location close to the Memorial Union Terrace and the State Capitol. The standard elegant rooms have flat-screen TVs and mini fridges, while the upgraded rooms feature kitchenettes and terraces. Traveling with a pet? No problem! The hotel is pet-friendly and allows your furry friends to stay for an extra fee.
Address: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Price: From $277/night
Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, parking, and an indoor and outdoor pool.
Ratings: 8.4 / 10 stars
advertisement
Grand Geneva Resort & Spa in Lake Geneva has multiple ski runs and a terrain park, making it an excellent location to vacation with the family. A resort fee covers access to the fitness center and provides Wi-Fi and parking. There are also pools, tennis courts, golf courses, and a spa.
If you're searching for a lakefront resort with gorgeous views and a fun-filled atmosphere, the Osthoff Resort is the place to be. This spot is located on the shores of Elkhart Lake, giving you plenty of options for fun activities like fishing or kayaking. Feel at home in the comfortable suites and choose between woodland or lake views. Plus, the spa and wellness facilities can't be beaten.
Have you been to any of these top Wisconsin accommodations? Do you think they are some of the best hotels in Wisconsin to spend your vacation? Let us know what you think. We’d love to hear from you!
Are you on the search for more luxury resorts in Wisconsin to plan your next trip? Find out more about The Brewhouse Inn & Suites inside the old Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery on the outskirts of downtown Milwaukee. Are you looking for more of a list? Check out these vacation rentals.
