The state of Wisconsin is divided into 72 counties, each boasting different attractions that surely bring enjoyment to tourists.
For decades, Wisconsin has been a favorite weekend getaway in the Midwest. A quick 40-minute flight or 3-hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Chicago promises you a fun and relaxing weekend in the picturesque Badger State.
If you’re planning a weekend getaway to Wisconsin, here are road trip pit stops that will take you to the best of what this state has to offer.
Go Mad for Madison
A mere two-and-a-half-hour drive northwest from Chicago will take you to Madison, Wisconsin’s state capital and home of the University of Wisconsin. This city is known for its top-rated restaurants, lively art scene, and beautiful lakes, making it the perfect start to your recreational weekend. Try biking around Lake Mendota and enjoy the beautiful view. You can also go kayaking on the lake itself for a more fun experience.
Get Tipsy in Milwaukee
From Madison, go east to Milwaukee, a city famous for its breweries. German immigrants in the 19th century brought their superior beer-brewing skills to this city.
Not up for alcohol? You can opt for something different thing to get your blood pumping. Milwaukee was home to famous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, so if you curious about this gruesome tale, you can take a “walking history tour down the same Milwaukee streets where serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer poached 7 of his victims before taking them back to his apartment for dinner.”
Beaches Aplenty in Door County
As a peninsula that juts into Lake Michigan, Door County is sometimes called the Cape Cod of the Midwest. Door County is home to 53 beaches, so there’s a lot for you to explore and choose from. Put your bags away and find condo rentals in Fish Creek, soak up the sun at Baileys Harbor or plan a picnic at Sister Bay. You may also enjoy a trip to Washington Island, with Schoolhouse Beach and its beautiful pebble shoreline.
World-Famous Water Parks at Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is a south-central city in Wisconsin straddling four counties: Adams, Columbia, Juneau, and Sauk. The city got its name from a beautiful, glacially formed gorge called the Dells of Wisconsin River.
Wisconsin Dells is home to kid-friendly attractions such as amusement parks, museums, and waterparks. The number of waterparks per capita in this city is more than anywhere in the world, that’s why Wisconsin Dells is also called the Waterpark Capital of the World.
Say Cheese at Kenosha
You can’t leave America’s Dairyland without sampling some of that dairy. At Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha, you can satisfy your cheese cravings with its different kinds of cheeses including Wisconsin’s famous cheese curds.
The in-store deli serves burgers, bratwurst, and other sandwiches plus sausages and alcohol. This place is located just off the I-94 so it’s a perfect roadside trip on your way back to Chicago. Just don’t drive if you’ve been drinking, of course.
You deserve a break from the stress of everyday life in a crowded city. Different parts of Wisconsin can give the peace, fun, and relaxation you need. With a quick weekend getaway in this Midwestern state, you’ll find yourself calm and stress-free, in no time.
