From Dells to Door County: Wisconsin’s BEST Family Vacation Ideas Revealed
Wisconsin offers plenty of great places for families to create new memories, from lakeside retreats to urban escapes. Known for its traditional super clubs, yummy cheese curds and fish fries, and beautiful outdoor spaces, Wisconsin is an excellent choice for a family vacation with kids of all ages. If you’re looking for the best vacation spots in Wisconsin with kids, we have some wonderful ideas. Our guide to the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families covers all the hot spots, including sea kayaking in the Apostle Islands, learning something new in one of the many museums in Milwaukee, and exploring Madison, the state’s capital. We are here to help you decide where to go – and what to do once you get there!
Keep reading to discover the best fit for your upcoming Wisconsin family vacations.
Bayfield & the Apostle Islands
Plan your next family getaway to Bayfield, a small town in northern Wisconsin nestled along Lake Superior. Serving as the gateway to the Apostle Islands, this lakeside destination promises to delight every member of your family. Choose to stay on the mainland or take a ferry to Madeline Island for activities like hiking, biking, swimming, and more. Bayfield and the Apostle Islands undoubtedly offer some of Wisconsin’s best things to do with kids!
Start your trip in downtown Bayfield. Here, you will enjoy one of the Midwest’s largest collections of charming Victorian homes. Then, visit the Bayfield Maritime Museum. In the museum, you and your kids will learn about the dynamic maritime history and industry of the Great Lakes. In the summer, venture to Blue Vista Farm for fruit picking and a taste of farm life. You can also munch on freshly caught fish at The Copper Trout, an authentic Bayfield culinary experience!
As one of the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families, you can’t miss exploring the Apostle Islands during your visit. This archipelago is a collection of over 20 islands known for its sea kayaking, lighthouses, and wildlife. The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore Mainland Sea Caves are one of the biggest highlights for families. When traveling with teens, they are best experienced by sea kayak (generally, most outfitters will only allow ages 14+). Alternatively, those with young kids can book an Apostle Island Cruise. Finally, hiking, sailing, and swimming are popular in the Apostle Islands.
Eau Claire
Widely considered one of the best family vacations in Wisconsin, Eau Claire features TONS of opportunities for family fun. Nature enthusiasts can engage in fishing, canoeing, biking, hiking, and relaxing at the sandy beach in Big Falls County Park. Alternatively, those seeking a more urban experience can explore the historic downtown. There are several boutique shops downtown for a bit of shopping, too! And the Eau Claire Sculpture Tour is a must for all ages! The most extensive self-guided sculpture tour in the nation, families will discover 70+ unique sculptures located throughout the city. Then, take a leisurely stroll along the river in Phoenix Park. In the summer, check the schedule for local events in the park and the excellent weekly farmer’s market.
Families with young kids can spend a day indoors at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire, newly renovated and known as one of Wisconsin’s top children’s museums. Then, families with littles will also find a colossal playground in Carson Park. Summer visitors will enjoy River Prairie Park’s free splash area and playground. Meanwhile, older kids may be more interested in the artifacts at the Chippewa Valley Museum.
For a cultural experience, catch a family-friendly production at the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre or the Pablo Center at the Confluence. Finally, Action City is an excellent stop for all ages, featuring an arcade, go-karts, mini-golf, and much more! Without a doubt, Eau Claire ranks highly amongst the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families.
Chippewa Falls
Located near Eau Claire, allowing you to pair them together, Chippewa Falls is one of the top Wisconsin weekend getaways for families. Due to its rich logging history, charming downtown, scenic lakes and parks, and Leinenkugel’s beer, Chippewa Falls has become a trending destination in recent years. For families, Chippewa Falls offers a lovely mix of outdoor adventures, kid-friendly eateries, and more.
Begin by exploring the historic downtown, where kids can enjoy spotting street art throughout the city. On your way to the park, grab an ice cream cone at the iconic Olson’s Ice Cream – a decades-old local favorite. Then, visit Irvine Park & Zoo for a large playground, a paved road through the park, and a small zoo featuring animals like black bears and bison. There is even a cozy cave and a lovely waterfall in the park! For more outdoor adventures, try fishing, boating, or kayaking on Lake Wissota, known for multiple access points and good fishing. Not to mention, Ray’s Beach is ideal for a bit of fun in the sun and sand. Alternatively, try hiking at Old Abe State Trail or Lake Wissota State Park.
Finally, enjoy family meals at local favorites like Wissota Chop House, Fill Inn Station for pizza, and Lucy’s Eatery for lunch. Finally, stop at Chippewa Candy Shop to satisfy your sweet tooth. Regardless of how you fill your days, Chippewa Falls is certainly one of the best vacation spots in Wisconsin for families!
Wisconsin Family Vacations: La Crosse
Situated along the Mississippi River, La Crosse draws families in all seasons with its array of outdoor activities. If you’re looking for fun things to do with kids in Wisconsin, La Crosse has it in spades! Paddling along the Mississippi River is a popular excursion for families in the summer. Or, experience the river in style with one of the La Crosse Queen Cruises. They even offer a Pizza Cruise for all ages!
Kid-friendly hiking is best experienced at Grandad Bluff Park or the Mathy Tract – Mississippi Valley Conservancy. You can also head north to Perrot State Park for incredible views! Goose Island County Park is another popular place with kids, featuring a public beach, hiking and biking trails, and idyllic picnic spots. Then, just a short drive from La Crosse, nature-loving families must add the International Owl Center to their itinerary.
As one of the best Wisconsin family vacations, there is plenty more to do in La Crosse! On rainy days, head to the Children’s Museum of La Crosse. The museum showcases exhibits on fire trucks, rivers, bridges, and more. Jump Start Adventure Park is an excellent option for families who enjoy high-energy activities like foam pits and dodgeball. During your visit, indulge in an authentic Wisconsin experience at Digger’s Sting Restaurant. This local supper club offers an extensive menu of delicious items, from steak entrees to pasta. Top it off with homemade ice cream from Pearl Ice Cream Parlor. A local favorite since 1938!
Wisconsin Family Vacations in Wisconsin Dells
Hailed as the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells boasts numerous world-class indoor and outdoor waterparks and resorts. In fact, it has the highest concentration of waterparks per capita on the planet! This attracts locals and visitors alike, all eager to experience the excitement of thrilling waterslides, epic outdoor adventures, tasty supper clubs, and more.
If you want to truly experience one of the best Wisconsin family vacations, staying at a hotel with a waterpark is a must! Generally, families love Wilderness Resort, Great Wolf Lodge, and Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark. Of course, more waterpark fun can be found at Noah’s Ark Waterpark. The largest waterpark in the United States, Noah’s Ark features over 50 water slides, a lazy river, and other kid-friendly attractions. A day here will surely bring an ear-to-ear smile to everyone in your family! Alternatively, Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park is another excellent choice for families.
If you’re looking for other fun things to do with kids in Wisconsin Dells, here are a few non-waterpark ideas to add to your itinerary! Book an Original Wisconsin Ducks Tour for a unique day on the water, which will provide tons of fun factoids about the area. Dells Boat Tour is another great option. This tour will also take you to Witches Gulch, a slot canyon only accessible by boat, and Stand Rock. Those looking to stretch their legs and take in some breathtaking views can trek along the Dells Scenic River Walk. Or, explore nearby Devils’ Lake State Park and Mirror Lake State Park. Finally, don’t miss the chance to encounter animals at the Wisconsin Deer Park, home to over 100 deer.
Door County & Washington Island
Door County is next on our list of fantastic Wisconsin weekend getaways for families. The western coast of this peninsula is dotted with charming towns like Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, and Gibraltar. Offering boat tours, wildlife encounters, and scenic forest hikes, the peninsula provides plenty of fun things for all ages. Plus, as the self-proclaimed Cherry Capital, Door County allows families to pick cherries at local farms from mid-July through mid-August!
Take a ferry to Washington Island, home to stunning lavender fields. Then, enjoy splashing in the waves together at Schoolhouse Beach Park or visit one of the island’s many lighthouses. Pottawatomie Lighthouse in Rock Island State Park is the oldest on the island. Families can also explore the island by bicycle with Island Rides Bicycle Rentals. Bookworms must also add Fair Isle Books & Gifts to their itinerary! No visit to Washington Island is complete without a meal at Jackson Harbor Soup.
Back on the mainland, hike to or take a haywagon to see the iconic Cana Island Lighthouse. Alternatively, in Sturgeon Bay, the Door County Maritime Museum offers interactive exhibits for kids of all ages. Ridges Sanctuary Family Discovery Trail showcases one of the best kid-friendly hiking trails in Door County and a cozy indoor nature center. For more family activities, try kayaking or diving among shipwrecks. If you want to avoid getting in the water, you can also explore some shipwrecks by clear-bottom kayaks. Offering many fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids, Door County is undoubtedly a bucket list destination for many families!
Madison
With its museums, scenic parks, and kid-friendly attractions, Madison offers one of the best Wisconsin family vacations. Nature enthusiasts can start their visit at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Vilas Park, or the UW-Madison Arboretum. Then, Henry Villas Zoo is an excellent stop with young kids! Summer visitors can also enjoy time on one of the many nearby lakes, including Mendota and Monona. Both lakes offer paddleboarding, sailing, and kayaking. You can even enjoy dinner with stunning lake views at Memorial Union Terrace.
Stroll down State Street, a pedestrian mall stretching half a mile. Here, you can find some of Madison’s best shopping and dining. From April to November, every visit to Madison is complete with meandering the Dane County Farmers’ Market at Capitol Square. Afterward, take a little peek inside the state capitol building. Free guided tours are available year-round. Or, pop into the sixth-floor museum and observation deck during the summer months. Then, catch a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts, which features a variety of performances throughout the year.
Youngsters will love the Madison Children’s Museum, featuring exhibits on art, gardens, and more. Meanwhile, older kids can explore interactive exhibits at the Wisconsin Historical Museum or Madison Museum of Contemporary Art. Madison also boasts several family-friendly breweries, like Capital Brewery and Wisconsin Brewing Company, offering family game nights and live music. Finally, take advantage of the campus-made ice cream at Babcock Hall Dairy Store! With so many fantastic things to do with kids in Wisconsin, it is easy to see why Madison is a family favorite.
New Glarus
Families looking for a European-inspired vacation need to visit New Glarus. Settled by Swiss immigrants, this picturesque community is well-known for its rolling green hills, Swiss heritage, chalet-style architecture, and cuisine. The Swiss influence can be felt around every corner and will impress kids and adults alike! Plus, as one of the best Wisconsin vacation ideas for kids, there is much to do here.
Start your visit in the charming downtown area. Kids will love roaming through town to locate all the decorative cows on the self-guided New Glarus Cow Parade route. You can also shop, with several boutiques lining the streets. Found downtown, no visit to New Glarus is complete without dining at Glarner Stube. Offering an old-world vibe and Swiss fare, this restaurant features spectacular menu items like fondue, schnitzel, and apple strudel. For breakfast, check out the New Glarus Bakery. Make it even more fun for kids by bringing your pastries to Village Park for a picnic and a chance to play on the playground.
If you’re interested in hiking, try the Sugar River Trail, which starts in town. Or, head to New Glarus Woods State Park. Only open on Saturdays, the Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum offers a unique perspective on the area’s history and one of its most famous residents, Edwin. The National Historic Cheesemaking Center is also a popular family itinerary item in nearby Monroe. Not to mention, Cave of the Mounds is just a short drive away. They offer daily tours throughout the year. Finally, New Glarus Brewing Company is popular with families due to its kid-friendly grounds and self-guided tour options. No wonder New Glarus is one of Wisconsin’s most kid-friendly weekend getaways!
Lake Geneva
Located in southeastern Wisconsin, Lake Geneva stands out as one of Wisconsin’s best kid-friendly weekend getaways, particularly in the summer. Beloved for its lakeside setting, Victorian architecture, and picturesque surroundings, Lake Geneva also boasts a charming downtown. Downtown is also the best spot to find family-friendly accommodations and dining throughout your visit.
Lake Geneva offers many fun activities for all ages, including boating, fishing, and swimming. With four beaches and various boating options, like the Lake Geneva Cruise Line, families have plenty of choices for a day on the water. Head to Big Foot Beach State Park or Duck Lake Nature Area for hiking. Winter visitors will love Mountain Top Ski & Adventure Center at Grand Geneva for its fun snow sports like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, sledding, and snowshoeing. You can also explore the area’s natural beauty along the Geneva Lake Shore Path, a 26-mile route (with shorter segments offered, too!) starting at Library Park. Animal-loving kids must visit Safari Lake Geneva – Wisconsin’s first drive-through safari!
The East Troy Railroad Museum is famous for families with young train enthusiasts. Or, catch a vibrant show at The Dancing Horses Theatre (known for its Vegas-style theatrics and talented performers). For an adventurous experience, older kids can soar through the trees with Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures. Older kids and teens will also love the Lake Geneva Ghost Walks. Undoubtedly, its diverse activities for all ages put Lake Geneva at the top of the list for the best Wisconsin vacation ideas with kids!
Wisconsin Family Vacations to Milwaukee
The largest city in the state, Milwaukee is also highly regarded as one of the best family vacations in Wisconsin! Situated on Lake Michigan’s western shore, the city boasts numerous cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and outdoor activities for all ages. Motorcycle enthusiasts, in particular, should take advantage of the Harley-Davidson Museum, which has been chronicling over a century of history. Milwaukee is also well-known for its breweries and the Brewers, an aptly named Major League Baseball Team. Not to mention, Milwaukee is also hailed as the “City of Festivals“ due to the numerous ethnic and cultural festivals held throughout the summer. The largest annual festival is Summerfest.
Milwaukee has various museums catering to all ages, including Betty Brinn Children’s Museum, Discovery World, the Milwaukee Public Museum, and Mitchell Park Domes Horticulture Conservatory. Regardless of the age of your children or their interests, there is a museum in Milwaukee that will appeal to them! Then, the Milwaukee County Zoo features over 2,000 animals, from red pandas and kangaroos to pythons. Even more thrills await your kids on the on-site zipline and ropes courses! Summer visitors can also bask in the sun for a day at Bradford Beach. Nearby snack bars also make it easy for families to find ice cream and drinks!
Families also enjoy the rotating shows at First Stage Children’s Theater. After a day of exploring, head to downtown Milwaukee to experience its diverse restaurants and intriguing architecture. And for a classic German brewery experience, parents can’t go wrong with the kid-friendly Sprecher Brewery, where the tour showcases craft beer and craft soda. Those looking for dynamic Wisconsin weekend getaways for families can’t go wrong with Milwaukee!
Enjoy Your Wisconsin Family Vacations
We hope this guide to the best Wisconsin weekend getaways for families has given you an idea or two for your upcoming trip! From epic outdoor adventures and peaceful lakeside retreats to bustling cities filled with shopping and museums, there is a perfect Wisconsin destination for every family. Undoubtedly, this list of the top Wisconsin vacation ideas with kids offers endless opportunities to create beautiful memories with your favorite travel crew. Have a great time in Wisconsin with your family!
Antonia Grant is a Minnesota mom + freelance writer who loves encouraging parents to find ways to connect and make memories with their kids. She’s a firm believer in providing children with experiences over things. You can find more from Antonia and her family adventures on Instagram @knead.to.roam and on her website. She shares all things family travel, outdoor adventures, and their favorite foodie finds.
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