12 Unforgettable Wisconsin Day Trips, One For Each Month Of The Year
Discover 12 exciting day trips in Wisconsin, one for each month of the year, offering unique experiences from winter zip-lining to exploring hidden parks.
Are you ready to make this year your best (and most fun) year yet? Well, you’re in luck, because Wisconsin is chock full of things to do. In fact, there may be too many things to do. Lucky for you, we put together this list to narrow down the options. Hold onto your hats for the 12 best day trips in Wisconsin, one for each month of the year. Take a look:
Don’t let the frigid weather keep you indoors. Instead, take advantage of the snowy season with a winter zipline tour. As incredible as it sounds, winter zip-lining provides an exhilarating way to observe Wisconsin’s stunning snow-covered landscape.
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One of the coolest Wisconsin day trips is flying through the trees at high velocity - Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures lets you do just that. Take a quick peek at what you'll be treated to in this video from J. Bastianello:
2. Indulge in some of the state’s most unique pizza
If you’re a fan of pizza (and who isn’t?!), you’ve got to visit Harry’s Prohibition Bistro – and that’s because it’s one of only a handful of eateries around the U.S. that serves Roman-style pizza. With a crust that’s described as "light and airy, yet chewy and crunchy," it offers a tasty twist on the classic dish. If you're craving Roman-style pizza, or just pizza for that matter, Harry's will fit the bill.
With several waterfalls, Daggett Memorial Park is like something from a picturesque dream. But there’s more to the park than meets the eye. Boasting as much history as beauty, the park, more specifically its granite, gained worldwide fame after being named the world’s strongest. A visit to this amazing park is one of the most unique things to do around Wisconsin.
4. Hop into the driver’s seat for some high-speed fun
Not your average go-kart track, Accelorate Indoor Speedway (formerly called Veloce Indoor Speedway) has some of the best – and fastest – go-karts around. Able to reach speeds up to 50 mph and outfitted with a variety of accessories, the go-karts offer a driving experience like no other. And since the track is located indoors, the weather won’t affect your high-speed fun.
The best way to see all Washington Island has to offer is the Cherry Train Tour, which operates seasonally from mid-May through mid-October. Fun for all ages, the two-hour open-air tram tour takes passengers to some of the island’s best features and attractions.
Dubbed a "sculpture complex," the Paul & Matilda Wegner Grotto is small town gem is hiding in Sparta. A real feast for the eyes, it’s filled with incredible pieces of artwork – all of which are made from shards of glass. This really is an amazing spot to experience in person and definitely among the best day trips in Wisconsin!
Another fascinating adventure in Wisconsin is the Wegner Grotto. If you are looking for interesting day trips near you in Sparta, WI take a look at what you'll see here in this video from Finkworld:
The Pontoon Porch is a two-level boat with a screened-in porch, lots of seating, and a gas grill. But its best feature is that it can be rented for the day! And with enough space for 30 passengers, it’s perfect for everything from casual get-togethers to weddings and birthday parties.
Witches Gulch is an incredible spot worthy of exploring. And while many choose to hike through the area, it’s not the only way to explore it. You can also take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the scenic canyon. If you're searching for unique things to do around Wisconsin, a trip to Witches Gulch should definitely be on your day trip list.
Every September, thousands of people flock to Warrens for the town’s annual Cranberry Festival – and this year, you should be one of them. In addition to cranberries galore, the annual event includes over 1,000 vendors, nearly 100 food booths, and lots more. The free-to-attend event is always the last full weekend in September. And by the way, its delicious!
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10. Enjoy seasonal views from atop St. Peter’s Dome
Though beautiful year-round, Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest looks especially stunning in autumn when it’s drenched in vibrant foliage. And the best place to soak in the seasonal hues that fill the forest is St. Peter’s Dome, the highest point in the area. All in all, according to locals, Wisconsinites, and tourists alike it is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin!
When it comes to Wisconsin day trips, AND if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind shopping experience, The Craft Barn in Galesville won’t disappoint! Boasting thousands of square feet and home to dozens of vendors, the enormous shop has a merchandise selection like no other.
A true hidden gem, the Toy Train Barn is located in the small town of Argyle. But don’t let its remote locale deter you – the barn is more than worth a visit since it’s filled with train displays, memorabilia, and photos. Train rides are also part of the fun for both big and little kids alike.
Take a little trip to see the Toy Train Barn Museum in Argyle with Adventures of Scott and Michelle as they show us one of the best day trips in Wisconsin for train enthusiasts:
So, have you done any (or all) of the things listed above? If so, which were your favorites? Would you agree that these are among the best day trips in Wisconsin? Can you think of something we forgot? Please give us your feedback in the comments section. We'd also love to see pictures from your Wisconsin travels!
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
The Remote Destination in Wisconsin Where the Drive Is Worth the Final View
Discover the beauty of the Bayfield Peninsula in northern Wisconsin, featuring the Apostle Islands, Meyers Beach, and the Lakeshore Trail. Plan your visit today!
Although there are certainly many wild and scenic places in Wisconsin, most places in the state are within a couple hours of a good-sized town or city. That said, you'll still plenty of spots that certainly feel remote - especially when there's little else that's on the way to your final destination. On such place is the tip of the Bayfield Peninsula in far northern Wisconsin. If you're coming from the state's largest metropolitan areas - Milwaukee and Madison - the drive can definitely take a while. But when you see what's waiting for you, I'm pretty sure you'll agree that it was worth it.
To get to the spot I'm thinking of, you'll need to point your car northward and drive - from wherever you are in Wisconsin. If you can't drive any farther north, you're pretty much there. You'll definitely want to make a stop in the tiny town of Cornucopia on the Lake Superior shore. It's the northernmost village in Wisconsin and home to the charming Ehlers Store. Just northeast of town, you'll enter Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, where you'll find Meyers Beach and the trail head for the Lakeshore Trail.
Head out on this moderately-challenging, 4.3-mile out and back trail to stretch your legs after the long drive and to enjoy some of the most dramatic views in all of Wisconsin. This two-mile stretch of forested, sandstone cliffs towers above the lake and a hike affords views of the dramatic shoreline, riddled with its famous sea caves, and several of the Apostle Islands. There may not be better vistas - or a prettier hike - in all of the Badger State.
You've made the trip, so why not stay a while and really enjoy the views you've traveled all this way to see. This charming Airbnb cabin, for example, is an affordable option located northeast of Cornucopia and just minutes from Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, Meyers Beach Sea Caves, and the Lakeshore Trail. With two bedrooms and a bathroom, up to four guests will enjoy Lupine Landing's secluded, wooded property and views of the Lake Superior shoreline through the cabin's floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as several outdoor spaces.
There are few spots in Wisconsin that offer a bigger payoff for a long drive than this stretch of the Bayfield Peninsula. (The tip of Door County is definitely another contender.) Check out the official National Park Service webpage for the Apostle Islands to get more information about this gorgeous part of the Badger State. And you may want to download AllTrails Plus to have maps of the park's trails at your fingertips - even if you don't have cell service, which can definitely be spotty in this area. If you get over to Bayfield on the other side of the peninsula, set aside some time to take the ferry over to Madeline Island and grab a drink at Tom's Burned Down Cafe, one of the coolest bars in Wisconsin.
Have you visited the northern tip of the Bayfield Peninsula? Let us know in the comments, and be sure to tell us about your favorite scenic places in Wisconsin.
