MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Milwaukee

Day Trips from Milwaukee

Wisconsin USA Travel Guide

Nearby Destinations

Several places are a comfortable day trip away.

Madison, WI, Kohler, WI, Lake Geneva, WI, and Chicago, IL.

Transportation and Tours

  • Madison: Bus service and limited Amtrak.
  • Kohler: mainly reachable by car.
  • Lake Leman: Best reached by car.
  • Chicago: Frequent Amtrak and bus service.

Natural Escapes

Wisconsin's natural beauty is just a short drive from Milwaukee.

Parks & Reserves

Explore places like Kettle Moraine State Forest or Havenwoods State Forest.

Lakeshore Serenity

Visit Harrington Beach State Park for lakeside relaxation.

Seasonal Beauty

Mid-October showcases spectacular fall foliage throughout rural Wisconsin.

Outdoor Exploration

The Kettle Moraine State Forest Southern Unit features extensive trails.

Activities

  • Hiking for all abilities.
  • Mountain biking paths.
  • Cross-country skiing in winter.

Water Adventures

A large number of smaller lakes and country areas provide fishing, boating, and quiet countryside.

Water Activities

  • Opportunities for fishing.
  • Boating on serene lakes.
  • Relaxing in rustic settings.

Scenic Drives

Countryside Views

  • Rural Wisconsin has rolling hills.
  • Picturesque farmlands are common.
  • Charming small towns dot the landscape.
  • Kettle Moraine offers stunning fall foliage.

Travel Comparisons

  • Independent travel is common and preferred.
  • It gives travelers flexibility with itineraries.
  • Organized tours are available, especially for Chicago.
  • Consider booking for planned excursions.

Time Required & Itineraries

  • Madison:Full day.
  • Kohler:Half to full day.
  • Lac Léman:Full day.
  • Chicago:Full day to many days.
  • Madison activities:Capitol, State Street.
  • Kohler activities:Design Center, spa.
  • Lac Léman activities:Boat tour, shops.
  • Chicago activities:Major attractions.

Plan Ahead

Check operating hours and book tours, especially for locations like Chicago, through sites like GetYourGuide.

Cultural Excursions

Discover Wisconsin's heritage beyond Milwaukee.

Historical Sites

Old World Wisconsin preserves old buildings and villages.

Architectural Gems

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin near Spring Green offers tours.

Rural & Local

Explore "cheese country" and local cheese factories.

Historical & Rural

Old World Wisconsin is an outdoor museum portraying past life.

Experiences

  • Preserved historic buildings.
  • Recreated 19th/20th-century villages.
  • Glimpse into farmstead life.

Architectural Heritage

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin is his personal estate and school.

Visit Details

  • Architect's home and studio.
  • Various tours offered.
  • Reserving ahead is strongly suggested.

Local & Spiritual Insights

"Cheese Country" exploration:Visit cheese factories.
Rural village charm:Glimpse Midwestern life.
Holy Hill Shrine:Stunning basilica.
Panoramic views:Especially beautiful in fall.
Local creameries:Purchase fresh cheese.
Unique community:Experience different cultures.

Cultural Exploration

  • Many sites, especially Taliesin, ask for advance booking.
  • Plan visits to experience Wisconsin's historical layers.
  • Allow ample time to outdoor museum at Old World Wisconsin.
  • Local cheese factories often welcome visitors during specific hours.
  • Verify if there are any special events at Holy Hill for unique experiences.

Multi-Day Extensions

For extended journeys, combine Milwaukee with wider regional explorations.

Door County, WI

Known as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest," Door County has picturesque towns and orchards.

Visit Details

  • Approximately 3 hours north of Milwaukee.
  • Ideal for a 2-3 day extension.
  • Activities include hiking, kayaking, and discovering the village.

Wisconsin Dells

Marketed as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," popular with families.

Visit Details

  • Approximately 2 hours north-northwest.
  • Suitable for a 1-2 day family-focused extension.
  • Scenic boat tours of Wisconsin River formations.

Logical Next Destinations

Expand your trip to major cities nearby for contrasting experiences.

City Extensions

  • Chicago, IL: Easily reached by Amtrak for urban contrast.
  • Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN: A larger city area.
  • Amtrak offers convenient connections to Chicago.

Suggested Routes

Consider longer road trips to discover more of the region.

Regional Road Trips

  • Great Lakes Road Trip: Combine Milwaukee with other cities.
  • Wisconsin Scenic Loop: Milwaukee, Madison, Door County.
  • A car is the main travel mode for A Popular tourist destination in wisconsin and Dells.

Exploration

By incorporating these day trips and excursions, your Milwaukee travel experience broadens.

Local Culture

Support local businesses, unique shops, and markets for authentic experiences.

Hidden Gems

Discover lesser-known spots by walking and engaging with local people.

Community Ties

Your spending strengthens the local economy and community.

Extend Your Journey

Integrate destinations like Door County or Chicago to expand your travel experience. Consider arranging day excursions and activities via GetYourGuide.
← Previous
Things to Do in Milwaukee
← Back to Wisconsin
Next →
Milwaukee Travel Tips

Next Up: Milwaukee Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Continue to Milwaukee Travel Tips