Weekend getaways from Milwaukee

As Wisconsin’s largest city, Milwaukee is home to over half a million people, as well as a frigid beer culture, festivals, and a great art scene. However, if you’re in the mood for a change of pace and scenery, head to these cities and towns in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Illinois for lake views, quaint main streets, tempting restaurants, and dynamic adventure. All of the destinations below are within 200 miles of Cream City, allowing for a quick weekend getaway without tedious hours spent in the car.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin – 50 miles from Milwaukee

Located just 20 minutes from the Illinois border, Lake Geneva’s resorts, 19th-century mansions, and boutique-filled downtown contribute to its reputation as an idyllic Midwest lake getaway. Lake Geneva is the second largest spring-fed lake in the state and the star of the show. Trips further Cruise line on Lake Geneva they offer a glimpse of the stately Victorian homes surrounding its banks. However, if you’re more of a landlubber, enjoy the shore experience during the walking portion or the entire 21-mile distance Lake Geneva shore path. Or rest all day Riviera Beach, close to the center. Now that you’ve worked up an appetite, the area offers a wide selection of farm-to-table and home-cooked meals. Simple focuses on local, artisan food producers, and at the same time is proven Next to the pub serves some of the best ‘za’s around.

Green Bay, Wisconsin – 120 miles from Milwaukee

Although Green Bay is known primarily for its beloved Green Bay Packers (and you can, and should, take it Lambeau Field Stadium Tour), there is much more to this seaside town. It’s located next to the Packers stadium The titular city The entertainment district allows visitors to have fun year-round, with restaurants, shops, a weekly night market, and seasonal sledding and ice skating. Away from the action, explore the grounds Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, a 535-acre wooded paradise for rehabilitated animals such as owls and foxes. Eat some cotton candy along the way and take a ride on the mini train at Bay Beach Amusement Park. Or wander through 47 gorgeous acres with over 85,000 plants from Wisconsin and beyond in Green Bay Botanical Garden.

Baraboo, Wisconsin – 120 miles from Milwaukee

Although Wisconsin Dells is the area’s biggest attraction, the charms of nearby Baraboo cannot be overlooked. That’s where you’ll find it Devil’s Lake State Park, a green oasis of over 30,000 acres and 27 miles of hiking trails. Under the radar The Glen State Natural Area at Parfreyjust 15 minutes from Devil’s Lake, it delights tourists with its wonderful sandstone boulders and waterfall. Mirror Lake State Park is a tranquil resort named after a glassy, ​​tranquil lake 5 miles from the Dells. For a slower connection with nature, take a tour of the lavender fields at ul New Life Lavender and Cherry Farm or pick seasonal fruits to your heart’s content Ski-Hi Fruit Farm.

Chicago – 95 miles from Milwaukee

A miniature town escape is always a good time, but a weekend in the largest city in the Midwest is strenuous to beat. Chicago offers almost countless opportunities to enjoy its splendor, ranging from Chicago Architecture River Cruise Down Trail 606, a fresh 4.7 km long multi-use trail and green areas. Join the tour in the off-season Wrigley Field or shop until you drop by Great Mila. World-class museums such as Museum of Science and Industry and Art Institute of Chicago Attract locals and guests with fascinating exhibits. Boutique hotels in the city such as Chicago Athletic Association Hotel AND Publishing houseattract travelers with their individual style.

Galena, Illinois – 170 miles from Milwaukee

A variety of architectural styles dating back to the 1820s can be admired throughout the building Historic DistrictGalena in northwestern Illinois transports visitors back in time. Learn about its storied buildings and more, then get up on the deck Galen’s stroller. Find 125 brick shops and restaurants along downtown’s picturesque Main Street; read carefully Galena Pharmacy If you’re looking for natural beauty products and vintage items, find your fresh favorite read on the site Galena’s book and paper or linger over a plate of Nana Lu’s meat lasagne at Little Italy by Vinny Vanucchi. To see the region from a bird’s eye view, visit Horseshoe Mound where you can spot the three states or jump over the trees Long Hollow Canopy Tours.

Wausau, Wisconsin – 200 km from Milwaukee

In the heart of Wisconsin, Wausau’s popularity has been steadily growing over the past few years, especially among adventure and art films. It is home to Rib Mountain State Parkdotted with impressive rock formations that are billions of years elderly. It’s about five miles north Granite Peak, a favorite among Wisconsinites, offering 60 trails on 200 skiable acres. If you prefer to stay at home, go to Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum, where wildlife and nature are depicted as exquisite sculptures and vibrant oil paintings. Śródmieście, A solid calendar of events attracts crowds to festivals and fairs throughout the year. At Wausau 300 Block, a canopy of vivid umbrellas hangs overhead (the display makes a fancy photo backdrop if your social gatherings need a little extra energy!).

Dubuque, Iowa – 275 miles from Milwaukee

Once a significant maritime hub, Dubuque is now a hub of activity for families and adventurous travelers. National Mississippi River Museum and Aquarium, a family-friendly riverside attraction featuring 12 vast aquariums and educational exhibits that kids will love. To see the beauty of the great outdoors, go hiking along the 25 km long trails Spain Mines, State Recreation Area, a 1,432-acre National Historic Landmark on the outskirts of town. Or ride Fenelon Place Elevator, the shortest and steepest cable car in the world, to views of the tri-state area. Downtown Dubuque is also located here 40 kaleidoscopic murals by local and international artists.

St. Charles, Illinois – 180 miles from Milwaukee

St. Charles is a historic village where you can ponderous down and take in everything. The city is especially celebrated for its hometowns Kane County Flea Market (open March through December), one of the best in the Midwest, featuring ancient furniture and collectible art. After retail therapy, travel downtown for live music performances and al fresco dining. Or watch a performance at Arcade Theatrewith a Studio 54-style dance club juxtaposed with a 1920s bar. End the elderly school vibe of this tour with River boat with a rowing wheel Fox River trip.