Top Destinations for a Weekend Getaway in Wisconsin

Head to Milwaukee for a city buzz. It boasts plenty of museums, beaches, shopping, and dining. For educational exhibits, stop at Discovery World, where science and the environment reign. And you can’t miss the city’s delicious offerings at its many eateries.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, Green Bay is one of Wisconsin’s oldest communities. Enjoy wild rides such as the Sea Dragon at Bay Beach Amusement Park, and visit the National Railroad Museum to browse its displays and artifacts.

As the state's capital, Madison is the perfect destination to learn about Wisconsin’s rich history. Visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum, or spend a day touring the magnificent Capitol building. Take the young ones to the Madison Children’s Museum and let them run wild at the tree-trunk huts.

If you want an escape off the beaten city paths, Wausau is the place to be. It’s a serene neighborhood where forests and hills abound. Visit nearby Rib Mountain State Park and enjoy scenic vistas and hiking trails.

This lakeside town offers family-friendly spots such as the Kid’s Cove Playground and Racine Zoo. Let the kids release pent-up energy and stroll through the zoo for close encounters with llamas, bears, tigers, and other creatures.

Step out of your vacation rental and trek the Ice Age Trail, one of the two national scenic trails in Wisconsin. This 1,200-mile footpath leads you through a diverse range of terrain. Climb the purple-pink quartzite cliffs at Devil’s Lake and enjoy stunning views of the waters below.

Acres upon acres of bright sunflowers at Pope Farm Conservancy create a dazzling sight. Stroll through this farm any time of the year and marvel at the thousands of sunflowers. Visit in August, when the plants are blooming, and take a guided tour or attend a special event.

The repurposed railroad line in west-central Wisconsin provides the perfect setting to test your pedaling skills. Power yourself through any of the three Elroy-Sparta railroad tunnels for a family-friendly ride. The paved trails in Oak Leaf and through the pines in Vilas County are also great for cycling.

Head to the sea caves of the Apostle Islands and explore the narrow passageways and caves in the red-orange rock. Guides offer paddling lessons to beginners. For more terrific twists and turns, hop onto a canoe on Kickapoo River and navigate the Kickapoo Valley Reserve.

Lake Geneva promises an unbeatable zipline experience and canopy tour through the wilderness. The professional guides will help you to fly 1,000ft above ground. Race a family member across the adventure bridges!

Keep it simple. Bring lightweight attire that you can layer on or off with ease. A few T-shirts and versatile jeans and shorts come in handy.

Carry sturdy hiking or walking shoes such as boots and sneakers. Water shoes are essential for enjoying the water rides in amusement parks, while flip-flops are suitable for relaxing by the poolside of your vacation rental.

Bring sunscreen and a protective hat to use on sunny days, as well as sunglasses. Include some insect repellent if you're heading to the woods.

You’ll need a good camera with sufficient memory to document your exciting adventures for friends and family at home. Pack it alongside new batteries.