13 Amazing Wisconsin Day Trips That Are Worth The Drive
Wisconsin has no shortage of scenic wonders and charming communities awaiting discovery. While multi-day trips throughout the Badger State allow for deep immersion, even armchair travelers can experience sampling the diverse appeal through well-planned day excursions. Beyond the bustling cities, numerous fun destinations stay hidden in the backcountry, from underexplored state parks and beautiful lakes to world-famous museums.
A quick drive to any of these hidden gems allows you to escape the urban hustle and hit the open road for new cultural discoveries in the United States. Upon landing at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, your short getaway options are unlimited. Learn more about some of the best Wisconsin day trips from Milwaukee that are more than worth the drive.
Kettle Moraine State Forest (55 Minutes)
Situated about 50 miles from Milwaukee, this adventure-filled day trip allows tourists to join almost 1.5 million annual visitors in taking advantage of endless opportunities at Kettle Moraine State Forest's Southern Unit. Spanning 22,000 acres of pristine wilderness, the reserve harbors glacial hills, lakes, hardwood forests, trails, and other dramatic natural wonders. A drive along the Kettle Moraine Scenic Byway lets you soak up the fall colors from the comfort of your car. However, you get closer to nature by hiking the numerous trails running through the park, including the Emma Carlin Trail System.
Kettle Moraine State Forest is a bustling hub for anglers, thanks to the many lakes found within its borders. You can carry your fishing gear to speculate for bass, muskie, walleye, and other species at Whitewater Lake.
Kohler Andrae State Park (1 hour)
It takes about an hour behind the wheel from Milwaukee to get to Kohler Andrae State Park, where fun recreational activities await on Lake Michigan's scenic shores. This natural gem invites newcomers to savor its expansive dunes and lush forests while lazily walking along the Black River Marsh Boardwalk. The sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing and picnicking while admiring the picturesque lake vistas. When the sun sets, pitch a tent on the grassy shows and wait for a magnificent display of meteor showers in the clear night sky.
Remember to stop by the Sanderling Nature Center. Several informative exhibits tell you about the flora and fauna in the sprawling park, while a rooftop observation deck puts the beauty of the Kohler Dunes into perspective.
Aztalan State Park (1 hour)
Discover the intrigues of ancient Native American heritage and lore with a family-friendly day trip to this National Historic Landmark. This historically and culturally immersive journey exposes you to impressively preserved age-old archeological sites. Visitors can scan reconstructed platform mounds and surviving mounds along guided trails on a ridgetop overlooking the Crawfish River. A partially rebuilt stockade encircling the village site offers an idea of how the Indigenous tribes protected themselves from outside attacks.
The Crawfish River allows travelers to kayak or canoe down its calm waters. Meanwhile, touring during the winter is a chance to make the most of lovely cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails meandering through the park.
Taliesin Preservation (2 Hours)
Taliesin Preservation blends history, culture, and architecture to accord first-timers a once-in-a-lifetime experience across its 800-acre complex. This beautiful estate pays tribute to the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It consists of a studio, home, and 37,000-square-foot home where he resided for almost half a century. Designated a National Historic Landmark and UNESCO World Heritage Site, guests can choose from various tours to discover the gem.
The In-Depth House Tour is a favorite for many. It showcases one of the country's most famous residences, which embodies Wright's architectural technique and vision as seen through the rooms he imagined and built. You will also witness the beauty of the Taliesin gardens and courtyards around the huge homestead.
Governor Dodge State Park (2 Hours)
Governor Dodge State Park is laden with natural attractions and, at over 5,000 acres, is one of Wisconsin's largest state parks. This brief drive from Milwaukee rewards tourists with access to over 40 miles of rugged hiking and mountain biking trails. Trekking the Meadow Valley Trail or biking the Mill Creek Trail is an excellent way to discover the fall wonderland punctuated by red, orange, and yellow hues on the leafy maple trees dominating the park.
Remember to carry your camera for the fabulous nature photography opportunities, including the small yet gorgeous 20-foot Stephens’ Falls. If you don't mind a little bit of wetness, you can paddle on the calm water of Cox Hollow Lake for aquatic fun.
Point Beach State Forest (1 Hour 35 Minutes)
At Point Beach State Forest, a 3,000-acre wilderness presses against 6 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, culminating in magical scenes of sprawling dunes against lush evergreens. The area hosts several natural wonders, including Point Beach Bridges, which features over 10 alternating swales and ridges. There are multiple ways to discover this delightful gem, but you can enjoy a secluded hike on the 10-mile section of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail passing through the forest.
Elsewhere, bikers can take on the limestone-filled Rawley Point Trail, which links with Mariners Trail on the southern edge. While at it, be sure to bring your camera and capture the post-card-worthy Rawley Point Lighthouse.
Cave of the Mounds (1 Hour 40 Minutes)
Brace yourself for a riveting underground adventure with a journey to this natural limestone wonder near Blue Mounds. There are numerous activities to engage in at Cave of the Mounds, led by mystic tours through the dimly lit caverns for a chance to witness dramatic stalactites and stalagmites. Above the ground, guests can speculate for rocks, minerals, gemstones, and other treasures at the Gem Mining Sluice before stopping by the Cave of the Mounds gift shop to hunt for a cute souvenir.
Multiple hiking trails present a suitable way to discover the area and witness photogenic sinkholes and wildlife that call it home. There is even a rain and butterfly garden where you can stop to revel in the serene atmosphere and play with the immaculate insects.
Peninsula State Park (2 Hours 55 Minutes)
One of the best Wisconsin day trips, this refreshing excursion takes you to one of the state's most famous nature areas. Peninsula State Park draws almost one million annual visitors looking to appreciate its sprawling wilderness. First-timers will fancy scaling Eagle Tower for unrivaled panoramas of the park, Lake Michigan, and the surrounding islands. Countless trails, including the Sunset Trail, traverse the preserve, which adventurers can follow to discover notable sites, such as the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse.
The Peninsula State Park Golf Course provides picturesque greens on a beautiful 18-hole course for those who enjoy the gentle pastime. Surrounded by rolling woodlands and stunning views of Eagle Harbor, its serene atmosphere is tailored for unwinding and letting loose.
Witches Gulch (2 Hours)
A trip to Witches Gulch enables tourists to explore one of the state's most famous sandstone cliffs. Carved by the action of wind and water over millions of years, the otherworldly location amazes residents and foreigners alike with narrow canyon walls layered with sediments and lush greenery. A short but charming trail runs through the canyon, exposing hikers to narrow passageways and hidden chambers.
The site is accessible only by boat, with excursions scheduled by the Upper Dells Boat Tours. During the ride, a resourceful narrator highlights interesting aspects of the Dells' culture and history. The ride also incorporates various stops along the way that allow guests to take advantage of photo opportunities.
High Cliff State Park (1 Hour 45 Minutes)
Escape the noise in the city to revel in a lush outdoor space full of wonders with a day trip to High Cliffs State Park. This over 1,000-acre treasure rewards visitors with countless opportunities to experience nature in its rawest form, from swimming and biking to fishing and hiking. Camping is popular at the park, especially in the fall foliage, with more than 100 campsites available. The same is true for hiking, with easy-to-moderate 16 miles of trails traversing the site with awe-inspiring vistas of Lake Winnebago.
While roaming the different pathways, you will come across centuries-old effigy mounds, which allude to the ancient civilizations that once resided in the area. History lovers will be intrigued by the tales of renowned leader Chief Red Bird and the limestone village.
Henry Vilas Zoo (1 Hour 25 Minutes)
Another kid-friendly getaway from Milwaukee, the Henry Vilas Zoo is one of the top animal sanctuaries in the state, and entry is free! Travelers across the state benefit from its educational exhibitions, featuring simulated natural habitats and rare encounters with beautiful wildlife species in its diverse sections. The Tropical Rainforest Aviary exposes you to exotic bird species in their natural habitat, and you can get a glimpse at the zoo's capybaras, the world's largest rodents. Another must-visit is the Discovery Center and Hypertarium, which intrigues newcomers with some of the globe's largest, such as the green anaconda and the Aldabra tortoise.
Meanwhile, kids will naturally gravitate towards the Children's Zoo, where they will have an opportunity to pet gentle beasts. For a small fee, hop aboard the electric Zoo Train and even ride an unassuming seal or okapi.
Bay Beach Amusement Park (1 Hour 50 Minutes)
Families touring Wisconsin can access the ideal getaway at Bay Beach Beach Amusement Park. Promising day-long, unadulterated entertainment for all ages, the waterfront venue harbors several thrill rides, headlined by a Ferris wheel and the Zippin Pippin Roller Coaster. At almost a century old, the wooden roller coaster is among the oldest in the country and is closely associated with the King of Rock and Roll. It was Elvis Presley's ride of choice, and he would rent it for the whole night to have fun with friends.
Holidayers can also access picnic spaces to relax and spend quality time. The park allows you to bring your own grill and enjoy a barbecue. There is a large central pavilion, a tent area, and seven shelters available for rent.
Devil's Lake State Park (2 Hours)
Devil's Lake State Park is the ultimate getaway for ardent outdoor lovers. A trip to this hidden gem in Baraboo rewards you with endless recreational activities around the year on 29 miles of trails, sandy beaches, picnic areas, and a charming lake. The Ice Age National Trails winds through the wilderness, inviting vacationers for remarkable discoveries. These include natural wonders like the Devil's Doorway, a dramatic rock bluff overlooking the 360-acre Devil's Lake.
This beautiful water body is a hub for various aquatic recreation, from boating and kayaking to paddleboarding and fishing. Finally, several campsites allow adventurers to sleep under the stars.
Taking a day to venture along Wisconsin's beautiful back roads opens a window into the essence of communities beyond larger cities. Whether discovering unexplored state parks, touring a vibrant art museum, or unwinding on a Great Lake shoreline, these excursions provide intimate views of local culture and pride of place. Visitors gain a firsthand appreciation for the natural beauty and small-town charms that drew generations of residents to put down roots. More than that, Wisconsin day trips foster memorable glimpses into the natural, historical, and cultural splendor of this storied northern state.
