Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin
Searching for the best places to visit in Wisconsin? Well, you are in the right place! Wisconsin is a state of natural beauty, charming towns, and vibrant cities, making it a fantastic place to explore. Having traveled through its lakeshores, forests, and cultural hubs, I’ve found that Wisconsin offers a perfect mix of outdoor adventure, history, and Midwest hospitality.
I’ve enjoyed lively cities with great food and music, peaceful lakefront escapes, and scenic trails that showcase the state’s beauty in every season during my recent four week road trip. From family-friendly attractions to romantic getaways and outdoor fun, Wisconsin has something for every kind of traveler. Here are the places I recommend, and I think you’ll enjoy them too.
1. Milwaukee
We land here often when we road trip around Wisconsin but one of my favorite times to visit Milwaukee was a week we spent around the holidays when we found Midwest shimmering with festive lights, and that irresistible scent of warm pretzels drifting through the crisp air.
We drove 90 miles north of Chicago (about 1.5 hours on I-94) to Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city with a population of nearly 570,000. We checked into The Pfister Hotel in Milwaukee which has won the AAA Four Diamond award so you can trust that you will receive consistently excellent service.
We walked along the RiverWalk, where I admired the reflections of holiday lights. One night, snow began to fall as we crossed the Milwaukee Public Market. Every stall felt like a hidden treasure, from artisanal cheeses to fresh seafood.
I think the coolest part about the market is how it brings together locals and travelers, creating a lively community atmosphere that makes every bite taste even better.
One of the best discoveries was the Historic Pabst Brewery, which is a hidden gem filled with history and character. I loved walking through it, surrounded by the unusual mix of historic ambiance and modern craft beer culture.
- Location: Map & Directions
Of course, no trip felt complete without a stop at Honeypie, one of my favorite neighborhood gems in Milwaukee. The pies to die for and I honestly think their homemade flavors are among the best I’ve ever tried.
2. Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva is a spectacular getaway spot that's relaxing and historic.
We drove 50 miles southwest from Milwaukee (about 1 hour on I-43) to Lake Geneva, a resort town of around 8,000 residents. Once a summer escape for Chicago’s wealthy families, the shoreline is dotted with historic mansions. We checked into 2-star Harbor Shores on Lake Geneva for two days.
Walking the Shore Path was pure magic, with dazzling views of the lake and historic mansions that gave the whole place a dreamy, unusual charm that completely won me over.
This lakeside town is such a cool mix of romantic escape and family-friendly fun, making it one of the best Midwest destinations for any kind of trip.
Exploring the downtown area was a highlight, with hidden shops, cozy cafés, and a lively atmosphere that made every corner feel exciting.
The beaches here are awesome for summer afternoons, whether you’re swimming, sunbathing, or just enjoying the peaceful shoreline.
In winter, Lake Geneva turns into a magical wonderland, complete with spectacular ice castles that are both unusual and unforgettable.
I thought the food scene was exceptional, ranging from fine dining with lake views to affordable local gems that made every meal memorable.
Sitting by the water at sunset was easily one of the coolest, most romantic experiences of the trip—it felt like time stood still.
If you are in the mood for great pizza, head to Tuscan Tavern & Grill. For a romantic dinner overlooking the lake, you'll want a table at Oakfire.
- Location: Map & Directions
Lake Geneva is an underrated Wisconsin treasure, offering unique experiences, hidden gems, and spectacular scenery all year round.
3. Green Bay
Green Bay, Wisconsin, is one of the most exciting cities I’ve visited, blending sports history, waterfront beauty, and hidden gems that make every trip memorable.
We drove 115 miles north from Milwaukee (about 2 hours on I-43) to Green Bay, a city of around 108,000 residents on the shores of Lake Michigan. We checked into Lodge Kohler for two days.
Of course, Lambeau Field is the absolute best highlight full of passionate fans. I loved taking a tour of the stadium and the Packers Hall of Fame, where the stories and memorabilia created a spectacular look into football history.
Beyond sports, Green Bay surprised me with its vibrant riverfront, where walking paths, cool shops, and unique cafés made for a relaxing afternoon.
The Bay Beach Amusement Park was another hidden gem—affordable, fun, and perfect for both family getaways and a playful date.
I thought the National Railroad Museum was unusual and fascinating, with massive locomotives and exhibits that felt like stepping into another era.
One of my favorite spots to unwind was the Green Bay Botanical Garden, a peaceful escape filled with interesting trails.
We also found the Neville Public Museum to be an underrated treasure, showcasing art, history, and science in one vibrant space.
The dining scene was another joyful surprise, from cozy supper clubs to cool breweries serving up exceptional local flavors.
- Location: Map & Directions
Green Bay’s a unique and exciting Wisconsin destination that offers the best mix of culture, history, and fun.
4. Eau Claire
Eau Claire, Wisconsin, is a creative city that I think is one of the state’s most underrated gems and best places to visit in Wisconsin.
We drove 90 miles east from Minneapolis (about 1.5 hours on I-94) to Eau Claire, a river city of about 69,000 people.
I loved how the city blends its artistic spirit with natural beauty, making it such a cool place to explore for a weekend getaway.
Walking along the Chippewa River State Trail was absolutely spectacular, with peaceful views and a cool mix of city and nature.
The downtown area felt alive with energy, full of unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and interesting murals that made every corner worth a photo.
I thought the Pablo Center at the Confluence was an exceptional highlight, hosting concerts, theater, and art shows in a stunning modern space.
We also visited the Chippewa Valley Museum, which was fascinating, bringing the area’s history to life.
For food, I we enjoyed Fella's Loaded Goat Restaurant & Bar for breakfast. If you have kids in tow, The Reboot Social offers games while you wait for your food.
Carson Park was another favorite spot, a hidden gem with trails, a charming museum, and beautiful lake views that felt peaceful and romantic.
- Location: Map & Directions
Eau Claire is one of the best Wisconsin destinations, offering a brilliant mix of art, culture, and outdoor adventure.
5. Middleton
Middleton, Wisconsin, is such an underrated destination just outside Madison, and I was surprised by how many hidden gems it offered.
I drove just 7 miles west from Madison (about 15 minutes on University Avenue) to Middleton, a suburb-turned-city of about 20,000 residents. We stayed at 2-star Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Madison West, WI for two days.
The National Mustard Museum quickly became one of the coolest and most unusual attractions I’ve ever visited.
I loved wandering through the vibrant displays of mustards from around the world—it felt both quirky and fascinating, and the free tastings made it even more fun.
Another absolute best stop for me was Hubbard Avenue Diner, which is famous for its spectacular pies and hearty comfort food.
We enjoyed an affordable and delicious meal here, and I thought the retro atmosphere gave it such a unique and welcoming vibe.
Afterwards, walking around the downtown area was a brilliant idea, with its interesting boutiques, cozy cafés, and small-town charm.
Pheasant Branch Conservancy was another highlight, offering peaceful trails and scenic views that made the day feel magical.
I also loved stopping by Capital Brewery, where the outdoor beer garden created a vibrant and exciting atmosphere perfect for relaxing with friends.
What struck me most was how Middleton balances quirky attractions like the Mustard Museum with exceptional dining like Hubbard Avenue Diner, making every visit memorable.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me, Middleton is one of Wisconsin’s best hidden treasures, offering spectacular food, unusual museums, and the kind of joyful energy that makes for a perfect weekend getaway.
6. Madison
Madison, Wisconsin, is one of my favorite Midwest cities because it's such an incredible mix of culture, food, lakes and trails.
We drove 80 miles west from Milwaukee (about 1 hour 20 minutes on I-94) to Madison, Wisconsin’s capital and home to about 275,000 people. We stayed at the 4-star Edgewater Hotel for two days.
I loved exploring the lively downtown near the Capitol Square, where the energy is always vibrant and the views are absolutely spectacular.
One of the coolest discoveries for me was Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier, a dreamy shop filled with handcrafted chocolates that tasted like pure magic.
I found her creations to be both unusual and exceptional, with bold flavors that turned every bite into a little adventure—I still think about those truffles!
For food, La Taguara quickly became one of my favorite spots in Madison, serving up authentic Venezuelan dishes that felt like an underrated treasure. We tried arepas and empanadas that were affordable, hearty, and full of flavor—it was such a brilliant idea to stop here for a cozy meal.
Beyond the food, Madison itself is such a cool city for a weekend getaway, offering everything from romantic lake views to family-friendly attractions.
Walking around the University of Wisconsin campus added to the magic, with its mix of history, architecture, and beautiful lakefront paths.
- Location: Map & Directions
Madison is one of the best underrated cities in the Midwest—full of vibrant culture, spectacular eats, and memorable experiences you won’t forget.
7. Spring Green
Spring Green, Wisconsin, is an amazing small town that offered a unique mix of culture, architecture, and hidden gems.
We drove 53 minutes (37.7 miles) from Madison to Spring Green, a small town of about 1,700 residents nestled along the Wisconsin River.
Visiting Taliesin, Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio, was one of the most spectacular experiences—I felt like I was stepping inside a living piece of art and history.
The tours here are fascinating, and I loved how every detail reflected Wright’s brilliant ideas and unusual vision for blending nature with design.
Another cool and unforgettable stop was the House on the Rock, which is one of the most unusual attractions I’ve ever explored.
Walking through the massive collection of eccentric rooms and displays felt like being in a dream—equal parts magical, bizarre, and absolutely exciting.
For a more relaxed vibe, I found the Spring Green General Store Café to be one of the best places to enjoy a joyful meal.
The food was affordable, the atmosphere vibrant, and I thought it was a hidden gem for both locals and travelers looking for a cozy stop.
What I loved most was how Spring Green offered this unusual balance of high culture, quirky attractions, and small-town charm.
Every corner of this town felt interesting, from its scenic countryside to the exceptional spots that made the trip so memorable.
- Location: Map & Directions
Spring Green is one of Wisconsin’s coolest underrated destinations, filled with spectacular experiences you can’t find anywhere else.
8. La Crosse
La Crosse is such a spectacular river town that instantly won me over with its personality and breathtaking Mississippi River views.
I caught an Amtrak Empire Builder train from Milwaukee to La Crosse (about 3.5 hours, $30–$50 one way). The station is just a mile from downtown, making it easy to walk into the heart of the city.
One of the coolest experiences was heading up to Grandad Bluff, where I found some of the most unforgettable panoramic views of the city and river valley—it truly felt like magic.
Walking along Riverside Park was another joyful highlight, with peaceful trails, interesting public art, and the chance to watch boats drift by on the water.
I loved how the downtown area blended historic architecture with a lively atmosphere, full of unique boutiques, hidden gems, and cozy cafés.
The Dahl Auto Museum was an unusual and exciting stop, showcasing classic cars and automotive history that I thought was fascinating.
La Crosse’s craft beer scene also stood out to me—sampling local brews in vibrant taprooms was both fun and affordable.
One of my favorite finds was the International Friendship Gardens, a spectacular and underrated spot that felt peaceful and inspiring.
For dining, the city offered everything from romantic riverfront restaurants to cool casual spots serving exceptional comfort food.
What I really enjoyed was how La Crosse balances outdoor adventure with cultural attractions, making it the perfect weekend getaway.
- Location: Map & Directions
La Crosse is one of Wisconsin’s best hidden gems, filled with unique experiences, spectacular scenery, and the kind of joyful energy that lingers long after you leave.
9. Kenosha
Kenosha, Wisconsin, is an underrated lakeside gem that blends vibrant city life with spectacular Lake Michigan views.
I caught the Metra commuter rail from Chicago up to Kenosha (about 1 hour 45 minutes, $9 fare). The train station sits right in town, so I skipped parking and walked straight to the waterfront.
I loved strolling along the harbor, where the cool breeze, interesting public art, and peaceful shoreline created a joyful and relaxing atmosphere.
The Kenosha Public Museum’s free, family-friendly, and filled with unique exhibits that showcase both natural history and cultural exhibits.
One of the most unusual and exciting finds was the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, where I got to see incredible fossil displays up close.
We also hopped on the electric streetcar that loops through downtown, and it felt like a hidden gem of affordable fun with a touch of old-fashioned magic.
I thought the downtown area was full of cool energy, with vibrant shops, local art galleries, and cozy cafés that made wandering the streets so enjoyable.
The Civil War Museum was another spectacular stop, offering fascinating and immersive exhibits that brought history to life in a unique way.
For food, Kenosha didn’t disappoint—whether it was casual lakefront dining or hidden gems serving exceptional comfort food, every meal felt memorable.
Spending time at at Simmons Island Beach was one of my favorite parts of the trip, with its soft sand and awesome lake views.
- Location: Map & Directions
For me Kenosha is one of Wisconsin’s coolest and most underrated destinations, perfect for a weekend getaway filled with culture, history, and lake beauty.
10. Cedarburg
Cedarburg, Wisconsin, is a charming small town that instantly feels like a hidden gem with its historic streets and joyful atmosphere.
We drove 20 miles north of Milwaukee (about 30 minutes on I-43) to Cedarburg, a charming town of about 11,000 residents.
I loved wandering along Washington Avenue, where 19th-century stone buildings now house vibrant boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés.
The Cedar Creek Settlement was one of the most spectacular stops, with its unique shops, local wineries, and a cool historic vibe that made me want to linger.
We also explored the Cedarburg Art Museum, which felt like an underrated treasure showcasing both local talent and fascinating regional history.
For me, one of the most unusual yet delightful experiences was tasting wines at Cedar Creek Winery—it was affordable, fun, and set inside a restored woolen mill.
I thought the Covered Bridge, just outside town, was pure magic and one of the coolest photo spots in Wisconsin.
The festivals here, from Strawberry Fest to Oktoberfest, create a vibrant and exciting atmosphere that turns the whole town into a celebration.
When we needed a break, the local coffee shops and bakeries felt like brilliant little escapes, full of warmth and delicious flavors.
What I really enjoyed was how Cedarburg manages to feel both romantic for a weekend getaway and family-friendly for a day trip.
- Location: Map & Directions
To me, Cedarburg is one of Wisconsin’s absolute best small-town destinations, offering spectacular charm, hidden gems, and unforgettable memories.
Conclusion
Exploring Wisconsin through its cities and towns has been such a joyful and spectacular journey, each destination offering its own hidden gems, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences.
To me, these destinations prove that Wisconsin is filled with underrated treasures and vibrant towns that deserve a spot on every traveler’s list.
Whether you’re seeking unusual adventures, spectacular views, or simply a joyful getaway, Wisconsin has some of the absolute best places to visit in the Midwest.
Booking Checklist
1. Book Your Flight - I use Expedia because I like their mobile app with my itinerary. They've helped me re-book flights on many occasions. Once you reach their Gold tier, support is especially good.
2. Book Your Hotel - I use Booking.com or Expedia, depending on my destination.
3. Book Your Rental Car - I use Expedia.
4. Book your tours on Viator or Get Your Guide.
5. If you are planning to visit more than three national parks in the next 12 months, buy the America the Beautiful Pass.
