10 Top-Rated Weekend Getaways In Wisconsin, USA - Updated 2025

1. Bayfield - Lake Superior

While Bayfield makes an ideal base to explore the gorgeous Apostle Islands set in Lake Superior, it’s not known as one of America’s best small coastal towns for nothing. Within the town proper, there are distinct shopping and dining spots, beautiful bed and breakfasts, and mom-and-pop motels and establishments that give it a quaint and laid-back charm. Its unique microclimate has given rise to many berry orchards and farms. In fact, it is recognized as Wisconsin’s Berry Capital. Visitors are surely in for a treat during berry season. Bayfield is about 146 km (91 mi) from the center of town to Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Wisconsin.

2. Baileys Harbor

Situated in Wisconsin’s Door County, Baileys Harbor is a haven for outdoor adventures, particularly because it is the gateway to Lake Michigan. The sole town on the shores of the peninsula, you can indulge in a plethora of activities here, including swimming, fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, kitesurfing, and even ziplining. Discover amazing wilderness preserves and trails, such as Kangaroo Lake Nature Preserve, if you seek to spend time in nature. Else, take home a craft beer from one of the town’s top breweries, relax on the pristine shores of Lake Michigan, and retreat to a comfortable lake house. The center of town is approximately 106.2 km (66 mi) from Green Bay, Wisconsin, where you can get off at Austin Straubel International Airport.

3. Cedarburg (from USD 164)

About 32 km (20 mi) from Milwaukee lies the cozy town of Cedarburg. This town, on Cedar Creek, is where old meets new - historic inns, limestone buildings, and a covered bridge from the 1800s co-exist with fantastic wineries, boutique shops, and interesting museums. Stop by Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts to learn a thing or two about quilting and enjoy a meal at Stilt House, a gastropub in a building raised on stilts.

4. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (from USD 186)

Start your Apostle Islands excursion from the visitors center located in Bayfield. The 21 islands that make up the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior, along with the expansive mainland coast, can be discovered in a number of ways. Hike Lakeshore Trail from Myers Beach, see the peculiar sea caves, explore the nine historic lighthouses, go scuba diving to find shipwrecks, and so much more. A boat cruise is a great way to spend a day weaving through the islands. Make sure to keep your eyes peeled for Devil’s Island and its magnificent sandstone caves formed by Lake Superior.

Northwoods Chalet @ Brickyard Creek, Bayfield

Bayfield, Wisconsin, United States
377.44 km (234.6 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells

117 reviews   Superhost

Entire chalet 2 Beds 4 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews

Host:

staff was very helpful

windseeker staff jenna was quick to respond and very kind to all my emails

the hosts were responsive and had perfect recommendations for what to do on our visit

excellent space communication with the host was easy and responses were quick

bayfield is a very nice small town people are super friendly and there's madeline island

Location:

the location for us was perfect

the location was perfect and so was the cabin

such a cozy place to spend a quiet weekend with a cute town nearby

the location is perfect for quick visits to bayfield and other surrounding areas

the perfect place for a quiet weekend get away

Cleanliness:

the chalet was incredibly clean

the inside of the cabin is extremely clean and modern

beautiful sparkling clean cabin in a great location

Amenities & Room:

the view is great and the cabin is cozy

the bathroom amenities were nice and towels were really fluffy always a plus

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from USD

186

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5. Lake Geneva (from USD 252)

If you’re looking to spend a weekend at a resort environment, this resort city is a year-round preferred getaway, especially for residents of nearby communities such as Milwaukee (less than an hour away), Madison (an hour and a half away), and Chicago (also an hour and a half away). Your itinerary is sure to be filled with delightful options, such as going on a scooter tour around the area and checking out the vibrant downtown’s shops and dining spots. Experience a safari ride at Safari Lake Geneva.

6. Vilas County (from USD 225)

Vilas County, located about four hours north of Madison, boasts natural attractions in vast numbers - over a thousand lakes, nearly a hundred different forest trails, dozens of streams and rivers, and Wisconsin’s largest state forest, Northern Highland/American Legion State Forest. Experience the best of outdoor activities along this area’s scenic trails and waterways. Go fishing, kayaking, or hiking. Ride on horseback or drive an ATV on the route system that connects the county’s communities. You might want to go camping for a full-fledged nature experience, but if not, plenty of other lodging options await. In the winter, enjoy snowshoeing or snowmobiling.

Hemlock Heaven

Presque Isle, Wisconsin, United States
297.85 km (185.1 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells

77 reviews   Superhost

Entire cabin 7 Beds 6 Guests 3 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 6

Top guest reviews

Host:

bob was such a great host replied quickly

great cabin and great host

beautiful property and excellent host

robert was a fantastic host and was quick to respond to any questions or concerns

robert is an excellent host that responds quickly and makes sure that you are enjoying your stay

Location:

this is a beautiful rental in an unspoiled northwoods location

this is an amazing cabin in a perfect location

this little cabin has a great private location and was perfect for getting away from everyday life

so this really is a great place to relax and get away from it all

secluded great cabin amenities and a great location to enjoy the lakes and the woods

Cleanliness:

very clean cozy and comfortable

cabin was clean and well stocked

cabin was very clean and well-stocked

charming clean and modern cottage in a wilderness like setting

it was also clean and offered a nice view of the lake and woods

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from USD

225

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7. Wisconsin Dells (from USD 107)

Expect year-round enjoyment at Wisconsin Dells, the waterpark capital of the world. Located in the Heartland of Wisconsin, it is 88.5 km (55 mi) north of Madison and 198 km (123 mi) northwest of Milwaukee. Family fun is guaranteed at the city’s many world-class waterparks, including Noah’s Ark, which happens to be America’s largest. But there’s much to experience beyond water fun. Wisconsin Dells is also home to a range of amusement and wildlife parks. Check out Wisconsin Deer Park or Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center. Plus, there’s no better way to see Wisconsin Dells than on a Duck tour. This fascinating amphibious vehicle will ensure a smooth ride through the area’s scenic beauty.

8. Milwaukee (from USD 208)

Wisconsin’s biggest city, Milwaukee, is set along Lake Michigan and is 145 km (90 mi) from the city of Chicago and 530 km (330 mi) from Minneapolis. Take a tour of the city’s breweries and the iconic Pabst Mansion to discover how Milwaukee came to be known as “Brew City”. Head to the Westown (west of Milwaukee River) neighborhood for all things happening - catch a performance at Miller High Life Theatre, see the home of the Milwaukee Bucks, and enjoy the city’s lively nightlife at Old World Third Street. Try the many water activities on Lake Michigan, hike through Milwaukee’s urban outdoors, or take relaxing strolls along the city streets to photograph amazing public art.

9. Sister Bay (from USD 145)

Sister Bay is a friendly community in Door County, just about an hour and a half from Green Bay, Wisconsin. It is a quaint destination that attracts locals and tourists for its beautiful 579-m (1,900-ft) public waterfront, one-of-a-kind dining options, and goats (yes, you read that right!). Get to know more about - and maybe even see for yourself - this well-loved Sister Bay tradition that began as a prank in 1973 at Al Johnson’s Swedish Restaurant. Every spring, the sod-strewn roof of the restaurant plays host to a handful of goats. Though the food at the Swedish eatery also comes highly recommended, the goats have become a famous attraction. There’s even a Roofing of the Goats festival held in June. After your fill of Swedish pancakes, there’s a bevy of al fresco dining options at the waterfront you can explore. Else, hang out at the beach or ride the spectacular backroads of this lovely coastal town on a bike.

10. Madison (from USD 265)

The exquisite capital city of Madison lies 120 km (75 mi) from Milwaukee and is surrounded by lakes Monona, Kegonsa, Mendota,Wingra, and Waubesa, that provide visitors with a plethora of water activities to take part in. This sprawling city has an abundance of natural beauty; there are about 260 parks and plenty of botanical gardens. Check out Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center and learn more about Frank Lloyd Wright’s legacy in Madison. Go on a tasting tour to sample the area’s best bourbon, beer, and cheese. Hunt for the best fish fry in the city. Catch sight of the domed Wisconsin State Capitol on an exciting lake tour.

Explore the wonders of Wisconsin

Between the stunning Apostle Islands and the rooftop goat wanderers of Sister Bay, experiences in the state of Wisconsin are amazingly diverse. If you wish to explore the wonders of Wisconsin, these destinations are perfect for your next weekend getaway!