Sometimes you just need to change up the scenery a bit. Whether it's a day trip or a long weekend, there are plenty of spots in Wisconsin that offer a great little getaway not too far from home. There are lots of options and this isn't an exhaustive list, but here are six areas of the state you could take off for this weekend to find a change of pace and a little weekend away from it all. Here are six quick road trip you can take in Wisconsin this weekend:
1. Madison
You would literally never run out of things to do on a day or weekend trip to Madison. Wander through the UW campus and take a picture with Abe on Bascom Hill. Stroll State Street and eat your way down or shop til your drop. Did you know their famous farmers market moves indoors in the winter and is nearly as awesome as the huge market around Capitol Square in the warmer months?
From the simple dumplings at Paul's Pel'meni or any number of options at Union Terrace to some of the finest dining in the state at E'toile, Graze or Pig in a Fur Coat, you could dine out for weeks in Madison and never get bored. There's also fabulous outdoor and rooftop dining in Madison to help you take advantage of warmer weather. Sample your way across the city at the many craft breweries or head a bit out of town to sip on some amazing local wine. For families, there's the free Henry Vilas Zoo, the UW Arboretum, Madison Children's Museum and more.
2. Great River Road North
There's nothing but stunning views, towering bluffs and state parks in the area from Prescott down to La Crosse. The Great River Road stretches for 250 miles right along the Mississippi and here's so much to see and do along the way. Visit Maiden Rock, Five Mile Bluff, Grandad Bluff, Perrot State Park, Trempealeau State Wildlife Refuge and more.
There's also a ton of beautiful, charming small towns along this stretch that are chock full of cute shops and delicious restaurants. This area is great for cider and wineries and once you've made it to LaCrosse, the dining and entertainment options are endless.
3. Great River Road South
The southwestern corner of the state is nothing but the most stunning natural beauty you can imagine. Wyalusing State Park is a great place to get a view of the whole river valley. The Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers converge here and it's also one of the biggest bald eagle nesting areas.
Head to Potosi Brewery and the National Brewery Museum and stay for a meal at their stellar brewpub. Check out the many local small town supper clubs. Find some of the oldest spots in our state.
4. Racine and Kenosha
Located just 10 miles apart and both in the southeastern corner of the state right along Lake Michigan, these two towns are full of history. Ride Kenosha's streetcar and check out their numerous free museums right on the lakefront. Racine's North Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere on the Great Lakes. Tour the nearby SC Johnson Wax campus and check out all the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings.
From Tenuta's in Kenosha to the Hob Nob Supper Club right on the lake in Racine, you could eat your fill and then some down here. Make sure you get a kringle - there are multiple bakeries down here making the delicacy.
5. Lake Superior Shore
There area around Lake Superior is so vast and varied. Get out on the lake and check out the Apostle Island sea caves or visit Madeline Island for the quaint charm of small town life. Head a bit inland to discover Lost Creek Falls and a few other gems along the way.
From cute lakeside diners to big brewpubs and plenty of small, locally-owned spots along the way, there's so many dining options. There's charming and quirky, weird and wonderful spots for you to discover. Life up here is slowed down and chill, and an escape here feels like a break from reality in the best way.
6. Fox Valley
From Green Bay down to Oshkosh, there's so much you can see and do. Visit Lambeau and take the tour. Enjoy High Cliff State Park and Lake Winnebago. Check out the amazing children's museum in Appleton or the History Museum at the Castle.
Get one of the best burgers in the state at Kroll's or check out the custard at Zesty's. Dine with the football players at Chives or chill out and have a great beer at Stone Arch in Appleton. Dine with great views at Fratello's Riverfront. This area also has some of the oldest and best bakery in the state at place's like Tamara's, Manderfield's and Uncle Mike's.
Where else do you like to go to try to escape from it all for a few days? Let us know in the comments.
Looking for another road trip option? The Great Wisconsin Cheese Trail Is Everything You’ve Ever Dreamed Of And More.
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