Day Trips in Wisconsin: Local’s Guide to Nature, History & Hidden Gems
Ready for an adventure? This Local’s Guide to Wisconsin will take you to the best spots for day trips! From nature hikes to historic towns, here are some easy ideas for unforgettable Day Trips in Wisconsin.
Explore Nature and Outdoor Adventures
Devil’s Lake State Park (Baraboo)
Hike scenic trails, swim in the lake, or go kayaking. Rock climbing is a favorite too!
Door County
Visit Fish Creek or Sister Bay. Explore Peninsula State Park, sip wine, or hop on a ferry to Washington Island.
Wisconsin Dells
Slide down waterparks, tour sandstone cliffs by boat, hike at Mirror Lake, and shop downtown.
Kettle Moraine State Forest
Hit the trails for hiking and mountain biking. Swim or canoe in sparkling lakes.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Try sea cave kayaking, visit lighthouses, and hike beautiful trails in the summer.
Dive into History and Culture
Taliesin (Spring Green)
Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s amazing home and studio.
Old World Wisconsin (Eagle)
Step back in time at this outdoor museum full of historic farms and live demos.
Milwaukee
Explore the Art Museum, Harley-Davidson Museum, Historic Third Ward, and enjoy local breweries.
Madison
Walk through the State Capitol, shop State Street, and relax by the lakeside at Memorial Union Terrace.
Small Towns with Big Charm
Lake Geneva
Cruise the lake, stroll the lakeshore paths, and shop downtown.
Cedarburg
Wander the historic downtown, sip local wines, and join fun festivals.
Bayfield
A gateway to the Apostle Islands! Enjoy galleries, orchards, and cute cafes.
Unique and Fun Attractions
House on the Rock (Spring Green)
Discover wild collections, odd architecture, and epic views.
Cave of the Mounds (Blue Mounds)
Take a guided tour of colorful limestone caves!
New Glarus
Visit this Swiss-style town for cheese shops, bakeries, and the famous brewery.
Must-Do Day Trips in Northern Wisconsin
Bayfield & Apostle Islands
Kayak sea caves, go on island cruises, and pick fresh apples.
Copper Falls State Park (Mellen)
See gorgeous waterfalls and hike scenic trails.
Minocqua
Spend the day on the lakes, bike trails, or cute town shops.
Hayward
Watch lumberjack shows and visit the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame.
St. Croix Falls & Interstate State Park
Hike among amazing rock formations and river views.
Day Trips in Southern Wisconsin You Can’t Miss
Madison
Explore gardens, lakes, and State Street fun.
Lake Geneva
Walk the Geneva Shore Path and marvel at historic mansions.
House on the Rock & Taliesin
Visit two famous landmarks in one trip!
New Glarus
Taste amazing cheese and tour the brewery.
Mount Horeb
See the “Trollway” sculptures and discover Cave of the Mounds nearby.
Eastern Wisconsin Day Trips Full of Fun
Milwaukee
Visit museums, breweries, and the sunny lakefront.
Door County
Wineries, art, state parks — it’s a total escape!
Cedarburg
Shop historic streets and enjoy seasonal festivals.
Green Bay
Tour Lambeau Field and visit the Titletown District.
Port Washington
Walk the marina and check out the lighthouse.
Western Wisconsin Wonders for Your Next Trip
La Crosse
See Grandad Bluff’s amazing views and stroll the river.
Eau Claire
Explore breweries, shops, and river trails.
Pepin & Stockholm
Shop local art and enjoy wineries along the river.
Hudson
Cruise the St. Croix River and explore cute boutiques.
Prairie du Chien
Tour historic mansions and visit Wyalusing State Park.
Budget-Friendly Day Trips in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has tons of affordable adventures too! Here are some:
- UW-Madison Arboretum (Free nature walks)
- Devil’s Lake State Park (Affordable hiking and swimming)
- Lion’s Den Gorge (Free cliffside hiking)
- Grandad Bluff (Free scenic overlooks)
- Chequamegon Bay Beaches (Free lakeside fun)
Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Must-Do Day Trips in Wisconsin
Want secret spots away from crowds? Check these out:
- Lost Creek Falls (Northern Wisconsin)
Hidden waterfall hikes and free parking. - Pewit’s Nest (Southern Wisconsin)
Natural gorge, perfect for a short adventure. - Cherney Maribel Caves (Eastern Wisconsin)
Explore cool caves for free! - Wildcat Mountain State Park (Western Wisconsin)
Gorgeous overlooks and peaceful hiking trails.
Wisconsin is packed with adventure, nature, history, and small-town charm. Whether you want waterfalls, cozy towns, or artsy fun, this Local’s Guide to Wisconsin covers it all. Plan your next getaway with these must-do day trips in Wisconsin and create memories that last a lifetime!