Milwaukee Day Trip Guide
Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of daily life in Milwaukee? Day trips are an amazing way to get away from everyday stressors without taking too much time off that can leave you in the same cycle of stress. Thankfully, Milwaukee is close to many day trip destinations. And with summer and the sunshine approaching, it’s the perfect time to get out and explore. With many day-trip spots to choose from, here are our top picks:
Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva is a great place to enjoy time outdoors or relax and rejuvenate at one of the area’s top rated spas. A popular resort town with gorgeous lake views, there’s plenty to do year round. A charming Main Street is a great shopping and dining destination, and you’ll want to hike some or all of the 26 mile Shore Path that winds around the entire lake with impressive views of mansions and gardens. You can also enjoy stunning views from the Yerkes Observatory. Some seasonal activities include boating, swimming, ziplining, snowmobiling and skiing. The drive is only about 50 minutes from Milwaukee making it one of our top choices!
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a no brainer for a day trip since it’s the largest city in the midwest. Big city vibes means big city amenities making dozens upon dozens of fun things to do. There’s food, shopping, multiple museums like The Field Museum, sculptural spots, The Shedd Aquarium, Navy Pier, The Riverwalk, Lincoln Park Zoo, and so much more. You can even catch a Cub’s game if you’re not a part of the Brew Crew. Chicago is also home to many festivals and festivities year-round, but notably more in the summer months. If you want a little taste of anything and everything, Chicago is the perfect day trip for you. While the drive is a bit longer, at about two hours, it’s all worth it with the variety of different activities and adventures you can experience. If you’re looking for a little side-quest, stop at Six Flags Great America amusement park for fun rides, games, and more for the family!
Wisconsin Dells, WI
With six major waterpark resorts, the Wisconsin Dells is known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World”. Located only two hours from Milwaukee, it is the perfect day trip with family and friends. There are many attractions and something for kids, teens, adults, and every age and lifestyle in between! If you are more of an adrenaline junkie, check out one of the amusement parks with exhilarating activities like zip-lining, ATV-ing, go-karting, horseback riding, and more. But if those things aren’t really your speed, there’s still other excursions like shopping, petting zoos, breweries/wineries/distilleries, gaming, golfing, gambling, museums, and scenic tours. Since there’s endless amounts of fun in The Dells, it might just be our top pick for a day trip!
Door County, WI
Sometimes all you need is a little rest and relaxation. And who wouldn’t want to do that on the thumb of Wisconsin with abundant shorelines of Green Bay and Lake Michigan? Door County is known for its cherry blossoms in the spring, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it in every season. Weather permitting, you can enjoy some time outside with 11 different lighthouses to gaze upon or head out to Peninsula State Park for breathtaking views. If you’re not the outdoorsy type, try visiting one of the 8 wineries in Door County and make some boozy memories. While you’re at it, stop at a Wisconsin classic supperclub for some tasty food to refuel after the wine. To add to the nature feel, you can even stay in a log cabin to really unwind and connect with nature. Although it’s our furthest recommendation at about 2.5 hours from Milwaukee, it’s definitely worth the hike!
