12 Great Road Trips to Take in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a treasure trove of scenic beauty, charming small towns, and vibrant cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for road trips. Whether you're cruising along picturesque Lake Michigan shores or winding through the stunning landscapes of the Northwoods, each journey offers a unique glimpse into the state's diverse offerings. Starting from bustling metropolises like Milwaukee or Madison, you can escape the crowds and chaos to explore quaint towns, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in Wisconsin's rich history.

From the breathtaking views of the Apostle Islands to the quaint charm of Door County, the road trips in this state promise adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Buckle up and get ready to discover the best routes and hidden gems that await you on these great road trips to take in Wisconsin!

Milwaukee To Baileys Harbor

Situated just under 3 hours north of Milwaukee, the journey to Baileys Harbor spoils road trippers with some of the most exotic vistas of the Lake Michigan shoreline, with an opportunity for detours to exciting port towns. About 25 miles into the drive, you can stop in Port Washington to admire the stunning lake scenery at Port Washington South Beach Park. Later, Sheboygan has a bustling art scene worth experiencing and invites travelers to the John Michael Kohler Arts Center for an immersive culture lesson featuring contemporary art exhibits.

Ensure you are not driving an empty tank when you get to Sturgeon Bay. This cute little town has a host of family-friendly eateries, and you can pause for a hearty meal at Greystone Castle, known for serving scrumptious prime rib sandwiches.

Madison To Wisconsin Dells

Madison to Wisconsin Dells serves as the ideal family getaway for travelers in the Badger State. The trip is conveniently short, just an hour, and culminates in exciting aquatic fun in the "Water Capital of the World." But before that, drivers can take advantage of the notable attractions on the route. For instance, you can pause in Sauk City to snap spectacular photos of the Wisconsin River while exploring the Sauk City Riverfront Park.

Additionally, consider detouring at the 40-mile mark to Baraboo and revel in its spectacular outdoor scenery at Devil's Lake State Park. Finally, allow the kids to grab a quick bite at the Grateful Shed when you arrive in Wisconsin Dells before immersing in unadulterated water-based entertainment at the famous Kalahari Resorts.

Madison To Spring Green

If you are seeking a short road trip destination to escape the capital's fast pace for a minute, Spring Green is an excellent prospect. Sitting about 55 minutes west of Madison, the drive passes through worthwhile stops that you can use to buy time and extend the getaway. The tiny village of Black Earth makes for a great first pause. It is home to Black Earth Creek, famous for its scenic beauty, serene setting, and excellent fishing opportunities.

A short drive ahead, stop in Mazomanie to uncover its captivating past with a tour of the Mazomanie Historical Society. Wind up the trip with a visit to the green oasis of Spring Green Preserve to hike its rolling sand prairies and admire its unique flora and fauna.

Milwaukee To Madison

A road trip from Wisconsin's largest city to its second-largest sounds intriguing to vacationers. Conveniently, it only takes one hour and 15 minutes and provides plenty of attractions in between for your exploring pleasure. These include the charming community of Concord, where you can pet cute farm animals at the Concord Zoo, including mini horses, alpacas, donkeys, and goats. In Lake Mills, take some time to stroll the scenic shores of Bartel's Beach and swim in the cool waters of Rock Lake.

As you draw closer to the journey's end, remember to visit the Olbrich Botanical Gardens and get comfortable in its green surroundings. This 16-acre oasis delights with a spectacular display of manicured gardens, landscapes, and a tropical conservatory.

Madison To Mineral Point

Mineral Point's rich mining heritage draws travelers on a Wisconsin itinerary. Luckily, a drive from Madison takes less than an hour, making it a worthy day trip destination. If you fancy a refreshing hike, you can pause in Verona to stretch your legs along the Military Ridge State Trail for a change. Verona offers a chance to restock with savory seafood or barbecue at North and South Seafood & Smokehouse. Prepare to get lost in the great outdoors when you stop in Dodgeville, thanks to the over 5,000-acre wilderness of Governor Dodge State Park.

Lastly, complete the journey with a visit to the Mineral Point Railroad Museum, which offers a glimpse into the town's mining and railway past. It has interactive exhibits that recount life in Mineral Point at the height of the mining boom.

Milwaukee To Green Bay

It takes a little less than two hours to drive from Milwaukee to Green Bay, a fun shoreline trip that exposes tourists to the charm of Lake Michigan waterfront communities. Highlights include the artsy town of Sheboygan, where you can catch a riveting stage performance at the Stefanie H. Weill Center for the Performing Arts or climb majestic dunes at Kohler-Andrae State Park to get the best views of Lake Michigan.

Another worthwhile destination to consider is Manitowoc, home to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum. Inside the facility, a collection of interactive exhibits recounts the state's nautical heritage in the Great Lakes region. Also, remember to interact with the 200 wild residents of Lincoln Park Zoo, including rare species like cougars, bald eagles, and black bears.

Madison To La Crosse

This inland road trip takes approximately two and a half hours and traverses some of Wisconsin's most exquisite small towns. Unsurprisingly, drivers should look forward to multiple stops to enjoy diverse local attractions. Fifty-five miles into the trip, a pause in Wisconsin Dells allows you to indulge your love for the great outdoors at Rocky Arbor State Park. You also want to take a meal break in New Lisbon and savor a delicious shrimp dish at the trendy Tuesday Bar & Grill.

Later in Tomah, you can find inspiration by interacting with wildlife species at the Wildwood Zoo. This easygoing drive-through experience lets you witness the animals in their natural habitat. Remember to uncover hidden local history at Tomah Area Historical Society before resuming your drive to La Crosse.

Madison To Chippewa Falls

This relatively straight-line trip from Madison to Chippewa Falls takes about three hours. It passes through several quaint communities that invite travelers to stop by and explore their history, nature, and culture. Take a detour to Mauston and sample its thriving craft beer scene by heading to Gravity Box Brewing Company. If you have a thing for golf, you can play a quick round at the Osseo Golf Club, which boasts outstanding greens.

Before winding up the trip, consider a short break in Eau Claire for a glimpse into regional history at the Chippewa Valley Museum. Finally, head to Riverfront Park in Chippewa Falls to soak up the majestic panoramas of the Chippewa River as the last item on your itinerary.

Madison To Baraboo

Baraboo is less than an hour from the capital, making it one of the best road trips to take in Wisconsin if you don't have much time. Despite the relative brevity of the journey, several attractions in between enable you to make the most of it. Among them is the quirky National Mustard Museum in Middleton, which intrigues visitors with over 5,000 mustard exhibits. While in the town, you can reconnect with nature at Pheasant Branch Conservancy.

Stop for award-winning wine tastings in Sauk City with a tour of Wollersheim Winery and Distillery in a 19th-century establishment. Wrap up the escapade with complete outdoor immersion at Mirror Lake State Park in Baraboo.

Madison To Cedarburg

A trip to Cedarburg allows visitors to escape the hustle and bustle of the capital. Visitors can explore several inland towns before concluding with the Wisconsin lakeshore. The trip lasts about two and a half hours and passes through exciting natural attractions, starting with Rock Lake in the small town of Lake Mills. You can also pause in Waukesha to feel its outdoor splendor at the Retzer Nature Center. The refuge offers scenic nature trails with wildlife viewing opportunities.

When you finally get to the Lake Michigan shoreline, consider resting in the quaint village of Whitefish Bay by relaxing along the shores of Klode Park. It has a tranquil setting with sweeping lake views worth photographing.

Green Bay To Fish Creek

Green Bay is a bustling city that can take a toll on uninitiated travelers. If the constant bustle proves too much for comfort, you can drive for approximately one hour northwest to the idyllic village of Fish Creek. Along the way, you will come across Sturgeon Bay, where you can uncover local nautical heritage at the Door County Maritime Museum. Egg Harbor is another exciting resting point along the route, inviting newcomers to taste its sweet artisanal cheeses at the Door Artisan Cheese Company.

You cannot visit Fish Creek without a trip to the highly revered Peninsula State Park. This famous playground harbors numerous adventures, from hiking rugged trails to absorbing stunning lake vistas and camping in secluded campsites.

Green Bay To Marinette

Marinette sits about an hour north of Green Bay but features a jam-packed trip with plenty to discover along the route. Just 10 miles into the excursion, you can take a detour to Suamico to indulge in fun activities in the pristine habitat of the Sensiba State Wildlife Area, home to a thriving population of shorebirds. Those who enjoy golf can look forward to a laidback tee time when they get to Abrams on the lush greens of Pine Acres Golf Course.

Additionally, spare some minutes in Oconto to revel in a relaxing waterfront oasis at the Oconto City Breakwater Park. It offers pristine picnic areas and a boat ramp to the calm waters of the Oconto River.

There is so much to see and do beyond Wisconsin's biggest cities. A road trip from the major urban areas to hidden gems allows you to uncover the state’s diverse landscapes, charming small towns, and rich cultural heritage. From the stunning shores of Lake Michigan to the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, each route comes with experiences and breathtaking views. Whether you're exploring the picturesque landscapes of Door County or the natural wonders of state parks, the best road trips to take in Wisconsin deliver adventure and relaxation in equal measure in the United States.