Wisconsin surprised us in the best way. These getaways weren’t just about a change of scenery — they gave us room to reconnect, recharge, and actually enjoy our time together. From lakeside resorts to snow-dusted winter escapes, there was something quietly magical about slowing down in the Northwoods. I remember thinking, “We didn’t need a big itinerary — we just needed a few days, and each other.”
Best Family Vacations in Wisconsin:
Make the Scenic Drive Worth It at Lakewoods Resort
Lakewoods Resort felt like a throwback to summers the way they used to be — fishing docks, evening bonfires, and long lazy days on the lake. Our kids spent more time outdoors than on screens, and I remember thinking, “This is what it looks like when time slows down in the best way.”
What We Loved Most: Watching the kids catch their first fish while we sipped coffee on the dock — laughter echoing across the water.
Our highlights? Pancakes with local maple syrup from the resort’s restaurant, followed by a slow pontoon ride around Lake Namakagon.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Cable, Wisconsin
- Vibe: Classic Northwoods, outdoorsy, nostalgic
- Highlights: Boating, fishing, snowmobiling, golf
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for lake fun; winter for snowy adventures
- Cost: Moderate
- Address: 21540 Co Hwy M, Cable, WI 54821
Recharge in Style at The Osthoff Resort
The Osthoff Resort blended lakeside charm with just the right touch of elegance. It was peaceful but never boring — swimming in the lake one moment, cooking s’mores by the fire the next. I remember thinking, “This is the kind of place where kids play and parents truly relax.”
What We Loved Most: Swimming in Elkhart Lake during the day, and walking the quiet shoreline at dusk with bare feet and full hearts.
Our highlights? Brick oven pizzas from Otto’s Restaurant, paired with lemonade for the kids and local beer for the grown-ups.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin
- Vibe: Upscale, family-friendly, lakeside
- Highlights: Beach, spa, cooking classes, holiday programming
- Best Time to Visit: Summer or during the holidays
- Cost: Mid-to-high
- Address: 101 Osthoff Ave, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020
Dip Into Relaxation at Lake Delavan Resort, Only an Hour from Milwaukee
Lake Delavan Resort gave us space — space to spread out, to breathe, and to enjoy each other’s company without feeling rushed. The lake was right outside, the pool was warm, and the pace was exactly what we needed. I remember thinking, “Why don’t we do this more often?”
What We Loved Most: Building sandcastles on the shore while paddleboarders drifted by and boats bobbed quietly in the distance.
Our highlights? Burgers and fries on the patio at a nearby local favorite — nothing fancy, but absolutely perfect after a day in the sun.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Delavan, Wisconsin
- Vibe: Relaxed, lakeside, family-friendly
- Highlights: Indoor and outdoor pools, lake access, nearby dining
- Best Time to Visit: Summer for lake activities; fall for foliage
- Cost: Moderate
- Address: 1505 S Shore Dr, Delavan, WI 53115
Indulge in Luxury and Leisure at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa
Grand Geneva Resort and Spa was a resort with something for everyone — a golf course for dad, spa for mom, and activities galore for the kids. From morning hikes to evening hot cocoa by the fire, it checked every box. I remember thinking, “This is what a well-balanced vacation looks like.”
What We Loved Most: Ice skating in the winter and bonfires at night — cold hands, warm hearts, and lots of happy faces.
Our highlights? Family dinner at Ristorante Brissago — wood-fired pasta for the adults and cheesy flatbread for the kids, all with views of the snow-dusted hills.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
- Vibe: Full-service, active, upscale
- Highlights: Pools, golf, spa, ski hill, seasonal activities
- Best Time to Visit: Summer and winter for outdoor fun
- Cost: Moderate to high-end
- Address: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147
Experience World-Class Comfort at The American Club in Kohler
At The American Club, everything felt intentional — beautifully designed spaces, friendly service, and family activities that didn’t feel like a compromise. We explored, we recharged, and we ate so well we’re still talking about it. I remember thinking, “This is where family vacation meets five-star comfort.”
What We Loved Most: Walking the landscaped grounds while the kids hunted for nature scavenger list items and we sipped iced coffee from the café.
Our highlights? Breakfast at The Wisconsin Room — fluffy pancakes for the kids, farm-fresh omelets for us, and the kind of coffee that keeps you going all day.
Travel Tips:
- Location: Kohler, Wisconsin
- Vibe: Upscale, polished, peaceful
- Highlights: Gardens, spa, nearby nature preserve, design-forward rooms
- Best Time to Visit: Spring through fall
- Cost: Luxury tier
- Address: 419 Highland Dr, Kohler, WI 53044
Why We’d Go Back
Every place gave us a new kind of joy — s’mores under the stars, lakeside breakfasts, indoor pools that turned rainy days into playtime. Whether you're traveling with little ones, teens, or just looking for family-friendly peace and quiet, Wisconsin delivers. It’s the kind of destination that makes it easy to be present — and to plan your next trip before the current one even ends.
Plan your Wisconsin getaway: