The Midwestern state of Wisconsin offers options galore by way of getaway destinations. Blessed with incredible natural beauty, the state has lofty mountains, serene lakes, snow-clad mountains and lush nature reserves, all of which are gorgeous backdrops for a cosy weekend. Small historic towns, lively large towns with thriving cultural and art and amazing food destinations are all superb possibilities available for visitors. Clearly, you have ample choice so you can pick out one that best suits your style, preferences and of course time availability. We offer a curated list of top romantic weekend getaways in Wisconsin, USA, so read on.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and access to couple-friendly amenities and activities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on August 18, 2024.
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1. Lake Geneva (from USD 276)
Spend an unforgettable couple of days amid the picture-perfect surroundings of Lake Geneva. Located around 1 hour and 20 minutes away from Madison (73 mi/118 km), this gorgeous lake not only has a serene vibe ideal for a peaceful retreat but also plenty of fun activities like water sports or hiking. Stroll along the Geneva Lake Shore Path appreciating the views of the blue lake and mountains around. Go on an evening cruise with Lake Geneva Cruise Line where you can have a romantic dinner against the backdrop of a spectacular sunset. If you are the adventurous kind, be sure to go ziplining or hot ballooning for stunning sights of the lake. Golfing, soothing spa treatments and winery tours are some other experiences available here.
The Cove Of Lake Geneva
Address: 111 Center St
150.98 km (93.9 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
2. Rhine (Elkhart Lake) (from USD 180)
The charming resort village of Elkhart Lake is located near the town of Rhine which is around 2 hours (100 mi/161 km) away from Madison. Couples looking to spend quality time together will find this the perfect setting. You can walk alongside the lake and enjoy its tranquil atmosphere or try out water activities like boating. Get de-stressed at Aspira Spa which offers treatments using Elkhart Lake’s healing waters. If on the other hand, you want to enjoy more outdoorsy activities, then hike through the majestic Ice Age National Scenic Trail or Kettle Moraine State Forest.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
super peaceful night of rest in excellent bedsbeds are extremely comfortable large walk-in closet and cozy fireplacebeds were extremely comfortableCleanliness:
fantastic place exceptionally clean and cool decor and historybeutiful peaceful setting and meticulously clean homea wonderfully private clean and cozy place to staywonderful stay super clean and well maintained inside and outit was spacious and very cleanHost:
the hosts were very friendlychris and tami are wonderful and extremely friendly hostschris and tami are some of the best hosts i’ve hadhuge thanks to chris and tami for being such great hostsRead more reviewsLocation:
the location was great being very close to road americathe location is a wonderful spot for relaxationtami and chris have a wonderful place very close to elkhart lakegreat location cozy well decorated spaceclose to town but setting is peacefully out in the country
Superhost
3. Baraboo (Baraboo Bluff Range) (from USD 88)
The historic town of Baraboo is perhaps most well-known for Circus World that showcases the history of the circus. But couples with an interest in exploring natural wonders will have fun here. Wisconsin’s largest park, Devil’s Lake State Park, contains massive bluffs that go over 500 ft (152 m). Part of the ancient geological landmark, Baraboo Range, these stunning formations are said to be over 1.6 billion years old. For some secluded couple time, you can go camping on the banks of Devil Lake or plan a picnic. The International Cranes Foundation, the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and Parfrey’s Glen are other popular natural spots. This city is just around an hour’s (48 mi/78 km) drive from Madison.
AmericInn & Suites by Wyndham Baraboo Event Center
Address: 626 West Pine Street
5.81 km (3.7 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
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4. La Farge (Kickapoo Valley Reserve) (from USD 75)
Located around 110 mi (177 km) or 2 hours away from Madison, La Farge is a small village set by the Kickapoo River. Head here if you and your partner are looking for a vacation spent amid pristine nature. The Kickapoo Valley Reserve located close by offers a network of rustic trails overlooking the river, opportunities to spot rare birds and exciting water sports like canoeing and fishing. You will also get a chance to appreciate unique geology characteristics found alongside the river banks like sandstone cliffs and outcroppings.
Top guest reviews
Cleanliness:
perfectly clean and completely quietit's simple clean well equipped and thoughtfully detailedRead more reviewsLocation:
check in was easy and the location (in our case) was convenient within the region
5. Wisconsin Dells (from USD 133)
For an active, fun-filled getaway, why not give Wisconsin Dells a try. A popular tourist destination, this scenic city is around an hour’s drive (50 mi/80km) away from Madison. The city is home to numerous water parks that promise hours of carefree fun and heart-stopping thrills. But there are other things to explore here. The Dells of the Wisconsin River is a striking glacial formed gorge on the river that must be experienced with a boat ride. Other places of interest include Cave of the Mounds, Dells Mining Co. and H.H. Bennett Studio.
The VUE Boutique Hotel & Boathouse
Address: 1015 RIVER RD
11.46 km (7.2 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
6. Madison (from USD 205)
Head out to the capital of Wisconsin and have a weekend featuring amazing architecture, verdant parks and a thriving art scene. Plan out a day at Olbrich Botanical Gardens where you can walk with your partner while taking in the stunning floral gardens and pavilions. Another perfect spot for a romantic rendezvous is the waterfront Memorial Union Terrace where you can sit back with a meal and enjoy the view and lively surroundings. There are several other attractions such as Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin East, The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art and Lake Monona. Be sure to stop by Gail Ambrosius Chocolatier to get a pack of its famed handcrafted chocolates for your sweetheart!
Hampton Inn & Suites Madison Downtown This is a Proud Certified property where you can be extra sure of a welcoming stay.
Address: 440 West Johnson Street
59.35 km (36.9 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
7. Cedarburg (from USD 385)
Reasonably priced for a historic hotel in a prime location.
Charming old-world decor, complimentary wine and cheese, and a delicious breakfast.
Perfectly situated in the heart of downtown Cedarburg, walking distance to shops and restaurants.
Delightful continental breakfast with homemade pastries and a picturesque dining experience.
Located around 2 hours (99 mi/100 km)from Madison, Cedarburg is a small town that is perfect for couples seeking a laidback vacation. A pretty, historic town with a scenic backdrop, Cedarburg is great to walk around. Enjoy the well-preserved downtown centre and explore the many boutiques, stores and restaurants there. Another great place for a stroll is the iconic Cedarburg Covered Bridge where you can also enjoy activities like birding and canoeing. Other places of interest include Cedarburg Art Museum, The Wisconsin Museum of Quilt and Fiber Arts and Ozaukee Interurban Trail. If you plan a visit in the summer, don’t miss out its famed Strawberry Festival that’s held in June every year.
Washington House Inn
Address: W62N573 Washington Avenue
146.68 km (91.2 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
8. Eagle River (from USD 196)
Reasonable rates for a clean, comfortable room with ample parking
Playground, pool, piers/docking, ice machine, vending, and convenient location
Beautiful setting near downtown, with a rustic cabin feel and a great view of the lake
Attached restaurant with amazing food, though the continental breakfast was limited
The town of Eagle River is located in North Tennessee, nearly 4 hours (225 mi/362 km) from Madison. Set amid several lakes, you will enjoy a quiet trip with your partner appreciating its beautiful scenery as well as its amazing, fresh seafood. Those keen on fishing will find plenty of opportunities to indulge in trophy fishing in its lakes. Of course, outdoor activities like boating, camping, fishing, birding (bald eagles nests here) and hunting are popular. Eagle River is also well-known as a centre for snowmobiling so you should not miss a chance to check out its famed snowmobile trails in the winter.
Eagle River Inn and Resort
Address: 5260 Highway 70 West
267.28 km (166.1 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
9. Bayfield (from USD 275)
Head to northern Wisconsin to the quiet, idyllic town of Bayfield which is around 5 hours from Madison (324 mi/520 km). Known best as the gateway to the stunning Apostle Islands, Bayfield is set by Lake Superior and offers an incredibly beautiful backdrop for a romantic trip. Kayaking on Lake Superior, riding a ferry to Madeline Island, camping on one of the Apostle Islands and hiking in Houghton Falls Natural Area are just some popular outdoor recreation options here. Unforgettable romantic experiences available here include enjoying a lovely dinner in one of the many waterfront restaurants that offer spectacular views of the lake, indulging in an evening cruise, or settling down with a beverage of your choice on the marina for the sunset.
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the linens and beds were super comfortable and the little extra touches gave it a hint of luxuryit was snug and cozy for the 5 of us - a perfect sizethe house is very well stocked with all necessities to enjoy the kitchen and cooking as wellCleanliness:
wonderfully appointed cabin that was very clean and exactly as advertisedclean modern and tastefully decorated cabinwe appreciated that the inside of the cabin was very cleanHost:
very friendly and helpful property managershost communicated clearly as well hope to return somedayRead more reviewsLocation:
perfect location and great facilitiesit was the perfect location to relax and process togethersuch a charming cabin in the north woods it’s close to bayfield and the apostle islandsso cozy the screen porch was amazing and the location was greatcoming in the off season was particularly special as it was so quiet and peaceful
10. Wausau (from USD 189)
Conveniently located in Central Wisconsin and around 2 hours from Madison (142 mi/ 230 km), Wausau is a superb destination to enjoy nature and soak in some small-town charm. The city is surrounded by mountains, with the Wisconsin River flowing by, so nature lovers can go exploring scenic attractions like Rib Mountain State Park, taking wondrous winter landscapes from Granite Peak Ski Area, and skiing in Nine Mile Forest. The Grand Theatre and Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum are great spots to explore the city’s history. Be sure to plan out a fun evening at one of the top breweries of the city for some refreshing craft beer
Hilton Garden Inn Wausau, Wi
Address: 2101 North Mountain Rd.
156.3 km (97.2 mi) from Ho-Chunk Gaming Wisconsin Dells
Scenic settings for a romantic trip
Each of the destinations listed here provides a wonderful collection of experiences that can make your weekend visit one that you and your partner will remember. Whether you want a relaxed trip, one where you want to indulge in some adventures, or perhaps one where you want to pamper your partner, you are sure to find an ideal locale in our list of top romantic weekend getaways in Wisconsin, USA.
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