Your Summer Getaway Guide
Make the most of the warm months with a trip to one of these destinations.
CEDARBURG
Every summer, Cedarburg packs its calendar with live music and family-friendly festivals, like the downtown Strawberry Festival (June 27-28) and the Summer Sounds concert series on Friday nights at Cedar Creek Park. The charming destination is a delight during these celebrations, but even when there are no events on the docket, it’s fun to explore the historic, walkable downtown with its shopping and dining destinations. cedarburg.org
DELLSHIRE RESORT
Opening May 10 in the Wisconsin Dells, Dellshire Resort brings an upscale, immersive, medieval-themed escape to the Midwest. Resort guests will face a fire-breathing dragon, plunge into enchanted pools, dine in legendary halls, host events like heroes, and relax like royalty. The on-site 9,000-square-foot family entertainment center will feature a one-of-a-kind “mixed reality” adventure where guests become the hero in their own quest. Designed for travelers of all ages, Dellshire Resort blends world-building with high-end comforts to set a new standard for vacations. dellshireresort.com
THE ELGIN AREA
Located along the Fox River in Illinois, the Elgin Area consists of 11 riverfront communities, each with its own unique attractions. Together, the area offers a vibrant culture scene, natural beauty, golf courses and more. Plan a day trip or weekend getaway by consulting Explore Elgin’s website, where you’ll find itineraries based on a variety of interests, including nature and underground art. The website makes finding a place to stay and planning everything you want to see simple. exploreelginarea.com
FOX CITIES
Every May, festival season kicks off in the Fox Cities. This year, the area’s first fest is a brand-new event – the Apple Blossom Festival in Appleton. The inaugural festival on Saturday, May 9 celebrates spring’s arrival with food, drinks and free activities for kids. The fun continues all summer long with the Great Wisconsin Cheese Fest in Little Chute (June 5-7), Catfish Races and Concert in Greenville (July 10-11), PaperFest in Kimberly (July 16-19) and Appleton’s Mile of Music festival (July 30-Aug. 2). foxcities.org
GREATER RICHLAND AREA
Whether you’re riding a bike, paddling a kayak, or hiking on your own two feet, the Greater Richland Area offers some of Wisconsin’s most eye-catching nature to explore. Experience the heart of the state’s hilly Driftless region along the 14-mile Pine River Trail, or explore the more challenging Ocooch Mountain Recreation Trails – both are free to use, no trail passes required. Visit Pine River Kayak to rent a craft and hit the scenic river. greaterrichlandtourism.com
HAYWARD LAKES
Spring returns to the Hayward Lakes with open water, fresh trails and plenty of ways to enjoy the Up North escape. Anglers take advantage of excellent early-season fishing for crappie, bluegill and walleye on Lac Courte Oreilles and Nelson Lake. As the forest turns green again, visitors also explore trails, paddle rivers, and watch for wildlife. haywardlakes.com
THE LA CROSSE REGION
Find respite between the bluffs this summer with a trip to La Crosse. Waterfront dining options abound, like Moxie’s Tiki Bar or Sullivan’s Supper Club, which offer a great way to enjoy patio season overlooking the Mississippi River and other waterways. Explore La Crosse put together a Sunrise to Sunset: Full Day Itinerary online to help you plan a jam-packed day. explorelacrosse.com
PORT WASHINGTON
Enjoy the vibe of a coastal getaway just 30 miles north of Milwaukee. Port Washington has the best salmon and trout charter fishing in the state, and the historic downtown is full of unique shops and lakeside eateries. Plus, the charming town has a rich public art scene – the Paint on Port program brought 13 new murals to Port Washington between 2023-25. visitportwashington.com
SHEBOYGAN
The “Malibu of the Midwest,” Sheboygan is the place to be when the weather turns warm. Sail, kayak, fish or even scuba dive to see the shipwrecks off the Lake Michigan coast. Consider spending a day at Kohler-Andrae State Park. The park is known for its sandy beaches, dunes and forested areas fit for hiking, swimming, camping and more. visitsheboygan.com
SUN PRAIRIE
Starting May 2, the Downtown Farmers Market in Sun Prairie’s Cannery Square offers locally made produce and products every Saturday from 7 a.m.-noon through Oct. 31. Consider timing your visit for the upcoming citywide garage sale, April 29 - May 2, which sees folks across the town selling wares. visitsunprairie.com
Visit North Dakota
Plan your next great American road trip through North Dakota – where open roads lead to a breathtaking national park, rich history, and vibrant cities filled with local flavors. Whether you’re chasing adventure or a relaxed escape, start planning with a free 2026 North Dakota Travel Guide. Learn more at HelloND.com
