Looking for a lakeside retreat with racing thrills and small-town charm? Head to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin! Nestled in the Kettle Moraine region, Elkhart Lake offers crystal-clear waters, world-class motorsports, and a charming downtown filled with dining, spas, and boutiques. Whether you’re relaxing on the shore or revving up at Road America, this village is a hidden gem for Midwest getaways.
Elkhart Lake, WI Highlights:
- For Racing Fans: Catch high-speed action at Road America – One of the country’s premier road racing tracks with events year-round.
- For Water Lovers: Swim or paddle in Elkhart Lake – Enjoy boating, kayaking, or relaxing on sandy shores with clear, spring-fed water.
- For Spa Goers: Unwind at Aspira Spa – Award-winning wellness retreat with tranquil treatments and lake-inspired therapies.
- For Shoppers: Explore the boutiques downtown – Local art, lake-themed gifts, and gourmet goodies await in this walkable village.
- For Cyclists: Ride scenic routes through the Kettle Moraine – Rolling hills and wooded trails make for spectacular rides and hikes.
Best Time to Visit Elkhart Lake, WI
The best time to visit Elkhart Lake is from late spring through early fall (May–October), when the lake is warm enough for swimming and racing season is in full swing. Fall also offers beautiful foliage. Winter is quiet, with snowshoeing, spa visits, and cozy escapes.
How to Get to Elkhart Lake, WI
- By Car: Elkhart Lake is located off WI-67, about 1 hour north of Milwaukee and 2.5 hours from Chicago.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MKE), about 1 hour away by car.
- By Train: The Amtrak station in nearby Milwaukee offers connections for those arriving from Chicago or beyond.
Where to Stay in Elkhart Lake, WI
- Recommended for Relaxation: Osthoff Resort – Elegant lakeside resort with suites, fine dining, and the acclaimed Aspira Spa.
- For Couples: The Shore Club Wisconsin – Boutique hotel with retro-chic rooms, a lively supper club, and lakefront views.
- For Families: Siebkens Resort – Historic lodging with kitchen suites, on-site dining, and a private beach.
Best Things to Do in Elkhart Lake, WI
1. Road America
I like:
"See thrilling races and explore legendary tracks on an exciting motorsports adventure."
Road America is a delightful motorsport road course, located just outside of the city of Elkhart Lake within the state's Kettle Moraine geographic area. The course, which opened to the public in 1955, hosts major international car races throughout the year, including events connected to the NASCAR Xfinity Series, the NTT IndyCar Series, the SCCA Pirelli World Challenge, and the WeatherTech SportsCar Championship. Nine major racing weekends are open for public admission throughout the year, including events connected to the MotoAmerica series and the United Sports Car Racing Series. Motorcycle events are also showcased, along with vintage car shows and other car-focused festivals.
N7390 WI-67, Plymouth, WI 53073, Phone: 800-365-7223
2. Throttlestop
I recommend:
"Admire classic cars and motorcycles and discover fascinating automotive stuff."
Throttlestop is a unique car dealership and museum located near the world-famous Road America racetrack, known as a major tourist destinations for luxury car, motorcycle, and competitive racing enthusiasts. The dealership offers both traditional vehicle purchases and car consignment sales, which are negotiated by an expert team of professional car dealers to eliminate the hassle of sale-by-owner models. Top-tier detailing services use state-of-the-art, innovative methods for customizing vehicle aesthetic. Decades of vintage, rare, and restored motorcycles are showcased at the facility's Motorcycle Museum, including unique models from iconic manufacturers like Indian, Harley-Davidson and BMW.
20 Victory Lane, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020, Phone: 920-876-2277
Activities and Attractions for Couples and Singles:
3. Off the Rail
I love:
"Savor fresh food and enjoy cozy vibes on a quick bite stop."
Off the Rail is a cozy cafe servicing the Elkhart Lake area since 2006, serving up high-quality breakfast, lunch, and drinks throughout the day in a family-friendly atmosphere. The cafe is housed within the city's former railroad depot building, preserving many original design and architecture elements. Diners can enjoy breakfast favorites like bagel sandwiches stuffed with ingredients like salami, smoked salmon, capers, and cream cheese or breakfast sandwiches on English muffins. At lunch, sandwiches like the Ghost Train take center stage, filled with health-conscious ingredients like roasted peppers, alfalfa sprouts, cucumbers, and homemade hummus. A wide variety of espresso-based drinks are served up throughout the day, along with local wines and beers.
44 Gottfried St, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020, Phone: 920-876-4194
4. The Osthoff Resort
I enjoy:
"Walk along the lakefront and relax in luxury on a romantic weekend."
The Osthoff Resort is Elkhart Lake's premiere resort facility, located just three miles from the Road America motorsport racing track. The spacious resort is located on its own private beachfront on Elkhart Lake, offering a plethora of lovely guest rooms and suites featuring upscale modern amenities. Indoor and outdoor pools are offered for visitor use, along with a state-of-the-art fitness center and outdoor areas like a tranquil reflecting pond with nature trails. Guests can enjoy treatments at the center's Aspira Spa, which uses holistic treatment approaches, or take culinary classes at its L'ecole de la Maison cooking school, which offers single-day and two-day courses. Dining options onsite include signature restaurant Lola's on the Lake, casual American restaurant Otto's, and the cozy Elk Room lounge.
101 Osthoff Ave, Elkhart Lake, WI 53020, Phone: 855-671-6870
If you are interested in local events:
- For Motorheads: Vintage Festival at Road America (September) – See classic cars race and celebrate auto history.
- For Music Lovers: Jazz on the Vine (May) – A weekend of jazz performances, fine wine, and lakeside luxury.
- For Holiday Fun: Old World Christmas Market (December) – German-style market at the Osthoff Resort with gifts, food, and festive cheer.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30–90 Minutes of Elkhart Lake:
- For Architecture & Arts: Kohler (25 min) – Visit the Kohler Design Center and explore art galleries in this elegant village.
- For Lake Michigan Views: Sheboygan (30 min) – Stroll the lakefront, visit art museums, or relax at North Beach.
- For Nature: Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive (starts nearby) – Enjoy rolling hills, glacial landforms, and picnic spots.
- For Breweries & Bites: Plymouth (20 min) – Explore murals, antique shops, and local beer in a historic small town.
- For City Adventures: Milwaukee (1 hr) – Museums, breweries, and a lively waterfront on Lake Michigan.
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
- Question: Where is Elkhart Lake located and what makes it unique?
- Answer: Elkhart Lake is a beautiful resort village in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin, located on the banks of the picturesque lake of the same name.
- Question: What is Elkhart Lake known for?
- Answer: The town is best known as the home of the acclaimed Road America racetrack, one of the nation's top racing courses, which presents major car and motorcycle racing events throughout the year.
- Question: What can visitors enjoy at The Osthoff resort?
- Answer: Stunning all-inclusive resort The Osthoff is home to renowned restaurants such as Lola's on the Lake, known for its award-winning American cuisine and panoramic lake views. At the resort, guests can enjoy opportunities for watersports on the lake throughout the year, including chances for boating and waterskiing.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers.
Siebkens Resort – A historic resort with a cozy lakeside atmosphere.
Visit the Ice Age Trail – Enjoy scenic spring hikes through glacial landscapes.
Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, perfect for lake activities.
The Osthoff Resort – A luxury lakeside resort with a private beach and spa.
Relax on Elkhart Lake – Swim, boat, or paddleboard on the crystal-clear waters.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful autumn colors.
Shore Club Wisconsin – A charming lakeside stay with great dining.
Drive the Kettle Moraine Scenic Route – Experience breathtaking fall foliage.
Winter (December-February) – Snowy and peaceful, perfect for a cozy retreat.
The Osthoff Resort – A magical winter getaway with holiday events and a spa.
Go Snowshoeing or Cross-Country Skiing – Explore the snowy trails around the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
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