Find your next vacation destination at one of these exciting spots near and far.
Greater Richland Area
The rolling hills and verdant valleys of Wisconsin’s Driftless Area offer a scenic escape unlike the rest of our state. And Richland Center provides a central spot from which to explore the Driftless. Consider taking an expert tour of the land with Ridge & Valley – they offer UTV tours of the expansive countryside, with stops along the way to explore farms and sample produce. In the warm months, there’s plenty of outdoor fun to be had around Richland Center – canoeing down the Pine River, trout fishing in Willow Creek, biking through Pier County Park, or venturing underground for a look at the stalagmites in Eagle Cave. When the sun sets, stop by Starlite 14 Drive-In and watch a movie under the stars.
Wausau
Less than three hours from Milwaukee, this peaceful town is a great stop for art lovers. The Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum houses an acclaimed sculpture garden and a rotating series of exhibitions – and it’s completely free. Plus, Wausau’s Center for the Visual Arts sells artist-made goods and hosts galleries. If you’re looking to get outside, one of the most popular area destinations is Rib Mountain State Park, which has a 60-foot observation tower with breathtaking views. Or for a less taxing activity, stroll through Monk Gardens, a 29-acre botanical garden. Want to spend the night? Consider The Stewart Inn, a historic hotel; or Owl Ridge Cabin, a modern escape in Wausau’s woods.
Whitewater
Dine and drink at Whitewater’s plentiful restaurants and breweries. Enjoy a skillet from Jessica’s Family Restaurant in the morning, a bite from Taco Fresco for lunch, and some authentic Italian from Fanatico’s for dinner. For craft brews, head to Second Salem Brewing or 841 Brewhouse – or enjoy a glass at the beautiful Staller Estate Winery. On a sunny day, you might enjoy a relaxing stop by Dr. O.R. Rice Picnic Area, which offers shady respite under oak trees with a view of Rice Lake and the Kettle Moraine. When it’s time to get moving, the forest offers multiple segments of the Ice Age Trail to hike and many parks to explore. And if you’re really feeling wild, Whitewater is also home to Hang Glide Wisconsin – your chance to soar over our scenic state.
Game, Relax, Explore
Potawatomi Casino Hotel has been a go-to Milwaukee destination for years, whether it’s for a weekend at the hotel or an afternoon of gaming. And Potawatomi has made some exciting changes lately – a major renovation has brought an updated gaming floor, new restaurants like Rock & Brews, and a brand-new sportsbook. It still has the classic machines, games and other amenities that it has always had, plus an array of new attractions to explore and enjoy.
Wisconsin Waterfront Inns and Resorts
Our state is blessed with thousands of lakes, from the tiny inlands to our big, beloved Lake Michigan. Take advantage of all that water at one of these hotels.
HILLSIDE WATERFRONT HOTEL
Ephraim
In scenic Door County, this boutique hotel boasts a wide deck overlooking the harbor; luxurious, charming accommodations; and cottage rentals. It’s an easy walk to dozens of Ephraim shops – and a short drive to explore the rest of Door County’s many attractions. hillsideofdoorcounty.com
LAKE LAWN RESORT
Delavan
Delavan Lake on one side; peaceful rural Wisconsin on the other – this shoreline resort combines the authenticity and charm of its over-140-year history with modern amenities. lakelawnresort.com
THE GENEVA INN
Lake Geneva
It’s no surprise that Lake Geneva remains one of Wisconsin’s most popular getaways. The walkable downtown and scenic lake, visible from this waterfront inn, make for a peaceful and relaxing escape. genevainn.com
Wisconsin’s Unique Arts Treasure
Sheboygan’s John Michael Kohler Arts Center is a nationally renowned visual and performing arts complex, with rotating exhibitions and events featuring self-taught and contemporary artists. Replete with award-winning, artist-designed washrooms, this gem of a museum warrants repeated visits. A few miles west, JMKAC opened the Art Preserve, the world’s first and only museum dedicated to artist-built environments, such as those by Milwaukee’s Mary Nohl. The two destinations are musts for culture buffs.
Golf Nebraska
Nebraska is home to over 200 golf courses. That’s a lot for even the most ardent of enthusiasts. Here are four of the best, all within a roughly two-hour drive along Interstate 80.
1. Wild Horse Golf Club
GOTHENBURG
Ranked by Golf Digest as one of the greatest public courses in the nation, this course is known for its 68 deep bunkers, forcing golfers to deftly avoid or overcome them.
2. Indian Meadows Public Golf Course
NORTH PLATTE
This course has water hazards and trees to up the difficulty.
But since it’s only nine holes, it’s ideal for a morning on the links followed by a meal at North Platte’s downtown.
3. Lake Maloney Golf Course
NORTH PLATTE
You’ll face plenty of blind shots and narrow openings at this course – so maybe swing by the indoor practice facility to warm up.
4. Bayside Golf Club
BRULE
The vast fairways at this course offer striking vistas and views of Lake McConaughey. If it wasn’t for the challenging shots, it would be a delightfully peaceful experience.