Your Wisconsin Getaway Guide
Spring is (hopefully!) just around the corner, and that means it’s prime time to plan some getaways to warm away the winter blues. Consider one of these local destinations for a day trip or weekend escape.
DOLLAR LAKE RETREAT
Escape the city for a few days at this carefully curated Northwoods cabin in Eagle River. Layered textures, cozy spaces and three fireplaces make it feel welcoming. Every detail has been considered, creating a space that invites slow mornings, good meals and unhurried time together. Sit back in the outdoor hot tub under the open sky, or upgrade your stay with a private, wood-fired sauna for a restorative wellness escape. Whether you explore the nearby town or never leave the cabin at all, Dollar Lake Retreat is the place to rest, relax and reconnect with friends or loved ones. dollarlakeretreat.com
THE FOX CITIES
March marks the ideal time for homeowners to take a trip to the Fox Cities. From March 13-15, the Fox Cities Exhibition Center will host the House and Outdoor Living Show. Landscape and renovation experts will fill the hall, offering spring home makeover inspiration. Head to the nearby Urban Evolutions store afterward – it’s a must-stop for reclaimed wood and sustainable interior design. Of course, there’s much more to do. Appleton’s riverfront is replete with scenic lunch spots like Fratellos and Pullmans at Trolley Square, and College Avenue’s vibrant mix of boutiques makes for a fun afternoon of shopping. Cap your trip with a swing southward to Neenah for artisanal cheese from The Cheese Table or a decadent sweet treat at Wilmar Chocolates. foxcities.org
THE GREATER RICHLAND AREA
Take in the rolling hills of our state’s Driftless region with a trip to the Greater Richland Area. Anaway Place provides beautiful cabin rentals that capture the essence of the region’s striking landscapes. Relax for a weekend and appreciate the scenery. Bring a little something from the Driftless home with a stop at Oak Shade Greenhouse, which sells a wide variety
of plants, or Parker Family Farmstead, where you’ll find local, seasonal produce and hand-spun yarn. greaterrichlandtourism.com
HAYWARD
The Northwoods’ Hayward Lakes region comes to life during the spring fishing season. You’ll find clear waters, quiet shorelines and plentiful fish to catch. There’s something for fishing newbies and longtime pros alike: Chase pike in the shallows, search for walleye as they move toward feeding grounds, or slow down for sunfish and crappies near shore. Check out the weekly Outdoor Report at haywardlakes.com/outdoor-reports for up-to-date fishing conditions. And this year, Hayward will be hosting the 60th Governor’s Fishing Opener on Saturday, May 2, celebrating all things Northwoods fishing. haywardlakes.com
SHEBOYGAN
When the winter finally passes in Wisconsin, Sheboygan – aka the “Malibu of the Midwest”– is a must-stop. If you’re interested in hopping on a board yourself, or prefer to watch those cold-watertolerant wave-riders from the shore, peak surfing season in Sheboygan ends in April, as the town’s many lakefront beaches and parks warm up. For some culture, make a stop at the John Michael Kohler Arts Center and its nearby Art Preserve, two of our state’s most prominent arts destinations. May is when Bookworm Gardens opens for the season, making it the perfect time for families to visit. The botanical gardens are inspired by children’s literature, like The Magic School Bus and Winnie the Pooh, and are full of enthralling displays. visitsheboygan.com
WHITEWATER
There are plenty of ways to enjoy a long weekend in Whitewater. Stroll along the lake walk by Cravath Lakefront Park, hike Bald Bluff Hiking Trail, grab a drink at Second Salem Brewery, or visit the Crossman Gallery on UW-Whitewater’s campus, where you’ll find exhibits by both guest artists and students. If you’re considering an overnight stay, the region offers both rustic cottage rentals at Scenic Ridge Campground or a modern stay at the Fairfield Inn & Suites. If you want to try your hand in the arts, be sure to visit The Vinery and book a stained glass creation class. discoverwhitewater.org
WILL’S NORTHWOODS INN
The Packers season might not have had the best ending, but we’re never giving up on Wisconsin sports. And if you’re in Chicago, Will’s Northwoods Inn is the Wisconsin-themed bar to catch all your favorite local teams. This month, they’ll be showing March Madness games and hosting Friday fish fries during Lent. Be sure to stop by in May for Packerpalooza, an all-day extravaganza celebrating the Green and Gold. Last year, Eddie Lacy and Tucker Kraft attended and every year new current or former players visit. It’s a can’t-miss for die-hard fans. Stay tuned for the official announcement of a date on willsnorthwoodsinn.com.
Staycations
These two Milwaukee destinations prove there’s no need to travel far to have fun.
Potawatomi Casino Hotel
Wisconsin’s largest casino brings a little bit of Las Vegas to the Midwest. Potawatomi includes a 19-story hotel, a multi-floor casino, restaurants, a one-of-a-kind sportsbook and more. It’s a one stop shop for a weekend full of entertainment. This spring, catch the Gather & Grow Winter Brunch and Market on March 15 in Serenity Ballroom. The farm-to-table brunch highlights Wisconsin’s rich agricultural heritage, and the market features local vendors selling handcrafted goods, specialty items and other unique goods. potawatomi.com
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel
This Downtown destination, right in the heart of Milwaukee’s Theater District, recently opened a new restaurant, The Studio Kitchen & Cocktails. In just a few months, it’s already generating buzz for its eclectic menu of tasty dishes. The first floor offers live music every night, a hopping bar, galleries with rotating exhibitions and an artist-in-residence studio. For a special stay, consider booking one of the eye-catching artist-designed Canvas Rooms. saintkatearts.com ◆
Looking for a budget-friendly spring break that still feels like a getaway? A short drive to the Fox Cities offers affordable family fun with plenty to do, indoors and out. Skip the long lines and high prices and enjoy more time together, less stress, and a spring break that’s actually a break. Get inspired at FoxCities.org
