14 Small Town Getaways In Wisconsin Perfect For Families

Wisconsin's diverse outdoor scenery presents an excellent opportunity for tourists to reconnect with nature through lazy strolls along the sandy shores of Lake Michigan and adventurous hikes on the dense woodland trails in the Northwoods. While famous cities like Madison and Milwaukee put the Badger State on the map, several small countryside towns highlight the true charm of the state with their pristine natural beauty, close-knit communities, and relaxed pace of life.

These make for idyllic destinations when planning a family vacation. Between the pleasant beaches in Lake Geneva and the world-class theme parks in Wisconsin Dells, opportunities abound to create lasting memories with those closest to your heart. Although there is no shortage of options to choose from, here are some of the best getaways in Wisconsin, perfect for families.

Baileys Harbor

Experience some of the best views in Door County with a trip to this tiny community on the Lake Michigan shoreline, known for its God-given allure and easygoing atmosphere. Multiple outdoor spaces cultivate fantastic adventures, including the nearly 700-acre Kangaroo Lake Nature Preserve. This protected area features a mix of lowland forest and marshes with rocky outcrops against the backdrop of Kangaroo Lake, offering opportunities for birding, canoeing, and hiking. Meanwhile, dozens of ridges and trails cut through the Ridges Sanctuary, suited for strollers and walkers looking to bask in the serene natural scenery.

Also, families will fancy a mellow-paced cruise on the calm lake waters courtesy of Shoreline Boat Tours. This popular excursion exposes guests to iconic lighthouses, undisturbed islands, and ghostly shipwrecks found within the area. Baileys Harbor Schoolhouse Inn is one of the best spots to relax after an adventurous ordeal.

Washington Island

If your ideal family getaway involves a remote destination shielded from the city chaos, consider taking a 30-minute ferry ride to this hidden gem in northern Door County. School House Beach is among the most sought-after locations on the island and intrigues guests with its smooth limestone rocks and crystal-clear waters. Alternatively, you can find the perfect space to reconnect with nature at Little Lake Nature Preserve. This pristine park harbors a 1.25-mile walkway that visitors of all ages can hike to soak up stunning vistas of Lake Michigan.

Furthermore, take the kids to Trueblood Performing Arts Center for a riveting stage performance. This 250-seat venue hosts a variety of child-friendly productions throughout the year, from dramas, musicals, concerts, author presentations, and kid's shows. Finally, Sunset Resort provides one of the best places to spend the night with family.

Chippewa Falls

Chippewa Falls is a lovely town along the Chippewa River with charming outdoor escapades where families can spend quality time. It is home to Lake Wissota State Park, a 1,000-acre nature playground with secluded campsites, peaceful hiking and horseback riding trails, picnic areas, and playground spaces. Kids look forward to the exciting animal encounters at Irvine Park and Zoo. This 300-acre sanctuary provides a habitat for native and exotic species, which they can get up close with at the on-site petting zoo.

A delicious dinner at the Heyde Center for the Arts while watching a live performance is the perfect day to wrap up a day in Chippewa Falls. This rustic Neoclassical venue stages art shows, workshops, and music productions featuring local artists. Lastly, Cobblestone Hotel & Suites promises cozy and family-friendly accommodation after an eventful day.

Bayfield

For years, this secluded town on the shores of Lake Superior has drawn tourists keen on experiencing the beauty of the Apostle Islands. It promises remarkable cruises exploring Lake Superior's hidden gems with Apostle Islands Cruises. This scenic excursion delights guests with breathtaking views of dramatic rock formations, limestone bluffs, underwater caves, and secret islands. Families can also spend quality time at the Bayfield Lakeside Pavilion, attending dances or watching banquets in a pleasant venue overlooking the water.

Also, a trip to Eckels Pottery and Fine Craft Gallery introduces first-timers to the intricate technique of producing finely handcrafted pottery and the chance to order a customized piece as a souvenir. Meanwhile, Seagull Bay- A Lakeside Motel allows you to sleep comfortably on the edge of Lake Superior.

New Glarus

This Green County village, steeped in Swiss culture, offers a pleasant small-town escape for families. It is known for its strong sense of community, and one of the best times to visit is during the annual Wilhelm Tell Festival in August. This cultural celebration of New Glarus' unique identity entertains tourists with colorful traditional customers, Swiss Folk choirs, yodeling, and other distinct costumes. Vacationers can shop for cute gift items at Brenda's Blumenladen, from paper goods and pottery to decorative plants and home decor items.

Elsewhere, don't leave New Glarus without trying delicious Swiss cuisine at Glarner Stube. This trendy eatery has a romantic setting and cooks trademark dishes like cheese fondue and wiener schnitzel. When it's time to call it a day, find a cozy room at the Blanc Chalet to spend a good night's rest with loved ones.

Sister Bay

Sister Bay is another beautiful gem in Door County, with an relaxed atmosphere and a fair share of family-centric opportunities to have fun. This includes the sandy Sister Bay Beach, which boasts a 1,800-foot shoreline that attracts picnickers, swimmers, sunbathers, and sightseers. Meanwhile, Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours provides a unique way of discovering the town's beauty from the water. These narrated excursions explore some of the most notable landmarks in the region, such as the storybook Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.

When hungry, remember to visit Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant for the tastiest traditional Swedish fare in the region. Besides the sumptuous servings, kids will be in awe of the hotel's unique sod roof, where goats can be seen grazing nonchalantly. For accommodation, Sister Bay Inn provides child-centric amenities like free wifi and a pool to ensure everyone has a satisfying time.

Cedarburg

Cedarburg is a suitable small-town getaway from the chaotic scene of nearby Milwaukee, known for its rich history, vibrant arts, and shopping opportunities. The pedestrian-friendly downtown region is perfect for exploring with kids and hosts heritage centers like the Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts. It enchants newcomers with a fine selection of fiber art exhibitions, tours, and classes. Meanwhile, Ozaukee Skateland harbors diverse facilities suited for family fun. These include a roller skating rink, arcade games, a snack shop, and more.

Finally, enjoy a retail therapy experience at Cedar Creek Settlement Shops. The location holds at least 20 shops, selling everything from clothing and jewelry to original art and crafts. If you want a pocket-friendly B&B to spend the night, look no further than the Stagecoach Inn Bed and Breakfast.

Ephraim

Door County is stacked with small-town getaways any family will be glad to visit, and Ephraim stands out for its unique white buildings and magnificent views of Green Bay. The town has several fine art galleries for the perfect indoor pursuit. At Fine Line Designs Gallery, guests can browse a lovely collection of clay works, original paintings, sculptures, and custom wood furnishings in a welcoming setting.

Harborside Park cultivates laid-back moments in the great outdoors by offering quiet picnic areas where visitors can sit back and soak up soothing panoramas of Green Bay and Eagle Harbor. But if you want to get on the water, Bella Sailing Cruises offers customized 2-hour excursions on a vintage sailboat designed for a family of six. Regarding accommodation, Pine Grove Resort invites you to spend the night in a beautiful waterfront resort with access to a 40-foot pier.

Lake Geneva

This historic resort city in the southeastern corner of the state continues luring vacationers with its mellow waterfront scenery and exquisite lake views. It lies on the shores of Geneva Lake, beckoning beachgoers to take it easy on the sandy stretches of Riviera Beach. This well-maintained space offers a clean swimming beach and picnic spots where you can lie back and feast your eyes on the happenings. Next to the beach, the Lake Geneva Shore Path presents the perfect way to stretch your legs. This 21-mile route spans the shoreline, delivering unprecedented water views as it wounds past rustic estates from the 19th century.

Thrill seekers will relish an aerial excursion with Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures, which boasts multiple ziplines, sky bridges, high ropes courses, and spiral staircases for unforgettable experiences for the whole family. Finally, you can wrap up the day's itinerary with four-star accommodation at the Geneva Inn.

Minocqua

Minocqua is a lovely community in the Wisconsin Northwoods where holidaying families visit for endless water fun. The town is surrounded by glistening waters and lush vegetation, a combination you will find at Torpy Park. This lakefront oasis has amenities like picnic shelters, a swimming beach, tennis courts, and a sand volleyball court. Kids will enjoy interacting with exotic species at Wildwood Wildlife Park Zoo & Safari, a refuge for over 1,700 animals.

Alternatively, you can take them to watch an enthralling spectacle at the Min-Aqua Bats Water Ski Show. When it's all said and done, remember to book your family at the Waters of Minocqua for a peaceful night's rest.

Wisconsin Dells

Nicknamed "Water Park Capital of the World," there are no limits to how much fun families can have in this charming small town of southern Wisconsin. The list of world-class waterparks starts with Kalahari Indoor Water Park. The facility houses a mix of rollercoaster waterslides, lazy rivers, and kiddie pools across 125,000 square feet of recreational space. A tour of the Timbavati Wildlife Park culminates in an up-close interaction with adorable animal species in a 25-acre refuge, such as feeding giraffes and clowning cheeky monkeys.

How about introducing the children to a family-friendly show of illusion at Rick Wilcox Magic Theater? The theater hosts professional magicians who leave audiences in awe of their comedic magic tricks. For accommodation, try the Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells.

Baraboo

Thanks to its rich circus heritage, which it continues to maintain, Baraboo is one of the best getaways in Wisconsin perfect for families. The town boasts a vibrant downtown area where visitors can watch kid-friendly live performances at the AL. Ringling Theatre. Since 1915, the venue has entertained townsfolk with plays, concerts, and opera shows. You may let the kids get playful at the International Clown Hall of Fame & Research Center. This quirky monument pays tribute to clowning achievements and performers with a curious collection of related artifacts.

But if you want an outdoor escape to enjoy the fresh air, it doesn't get better than the Baraboo Riverwalk. This 3-mile promenade delivers terrific vistas of the Baraboo River amidst a serene and secluded atmosphere. Finally, Best Western Baraboo Inn has adequate rooms for the whole family.

Fish Creek

Home to Peninsula State Park, Fish Creek is a recognized outdoor lover's haven that invites adventures to immerse in its 3,700-acre crowning jewel. The popular state park is jam-packed with opportunities throughout its rugged landscapes, from hiking and camping to golfing and fishing. However, travelers can avoid the crowding by escaping to Sunset Beach Park. This is a serene sanctuary on the shores of Green Bay where you can relax on the sand to take spectacular sunsets over the horizon.

Elsewhere, a live theatrical performance in the middle of the wilderness is a must-have experience in Fish Creek, provided by the historic Peninsula Players Theatre. Finally, keep the accommodation frugal by staying at Julie's Park Cafe & Motel.

Wisconsin Rapids

Wisconsin Rapids promises vacationing families various fun experiences tailored for all ages. Prominent among these is the Wisconsin Rapids Recreation Complex, a delightful waterpark with adventurous slides and splash pads, with access to a skate park. Meanwhile, the South Wood County Recreation Center invites visitors for some fun on ice. This lovely ice skating rink presents a vibrant atmosphere for the community to unite by either skating on the ice or watching from the stands.

Finally, the Central Wisconsin Cultural Center supports local arts by offering a wonderful experience like exhibitions, musical performances, art classes, and workshops. When you need a place to stay, look no further than Motel 6 Wisconsin Rapids.

Planning Your Family's Wisconsin Adventure

While there is no shortage of fun places in Wisconsin where you can take your family for vacation in the United States, the best ones are usually a safe distance from the city. These offer a more friendly atmosphere for kids to operate freely without wandering off. The discussed Wisconsin getaways perfect for families are an authentic depiction of what to expect in the often underrated destination of America's Dairyland, from the captivating water shows in Minocqua to the soothing beaches in Washington Island.