Top 25 Scenic Destinations in Wisconsin You Must Visit

Water serves as a significant motif throughout my selection of the most exquisite locations in Wisconsin. This state boasts a shoreline along two of the Great Lakes, specifically Lake Michigan to the east, and on the northern edge, it borders Lake Superior, the largest and most untamed among them.

The interior of Wisconsin is dappled with thousands of freshwater lakes, while the rivers have sculpted the terrain, particularly within the Driftless Area of southwestern Wisconsin, a region that remained unscathed by glacial activity and is characterized by impressive gorges.

To the northeast, the Niagara Escarpment extends along the shore of Lake Michigan, where this remarkable geological feature meets the waters at the Door Peninsula, a natural and cultural haven reminiscent of Cape Cod.

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

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Beginning in northernmost Wisconsin, off the Bayfield Peninsula, one can find a collection of 21 islands designated as one of the United States’ ten national lakeshores.

This serene archipelago is accessible solely by water or air, revealing treasures such as sea caves, striated sandstone cliffs, ancient forests, ghost towns, nine historic lighthouses, underwater caves, and an array of vibrant wildlife.

With meticulous planning, one may set forth on the kayaking excursion of a lifetime, exploring sea caves and secluded beaches, while camping away from urban distractions. Guided kayaking trips are also available, or visitors can appreciate the islands’ majesty from the comfort of a yacht on a leisure cruise. The town of Bayfield provides essential information and advice at the visitor center.

2. Devil’s Lake State Park

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It is nearly impossible not to be captivated by this unique natural phenomenon, where a lake with no surface outlet is set against bluffs composed of some of the oldest surface rocks in North America.

Devil’s Lake represents a remnant of the Wisconsin River, which now flows several miles to the southeast.

As the last Ice Age concluded, this river stretch was effectively dammed by terminal moraines at both ends, trapping water east and west by the gorge walls of ancient quartzite, dating back approximately 1.6 billion years.

One can hike the Tumbled Rocks Trail along the western shore, encountering unique deposits, before looping back on the West Bluff Trail that features steep drop-offs and stunning vistas up to 500 feet above the lake.

3. Door County

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Traversing northeast Wisconsin, the Niagara Escarpment forms an immense arc through the Great Lakes region. Within Door County, this belt creates a lengthy peninsula extending into Lake Michigan, characterized by magnificent limestone outcroppings on both sides.

Often compared to Cape Cod, Door County is beloved for its charming coastal communities, eclectic specialty shops, vineyards, and vibrant culture, housing over 80 museums, theaters, studios, and galleries.

This charm is complemented by breathtaking natural scenery, featuring five state parks and 19 county parks, in addition to ten lighthouses that provide a nautical touch along the 300 miles of shoreline. Given the abundance of sights, I will highlight several locations on the Door Peninsula later in this document.

4. Copper Falls State Park

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Copper Falls State Park showcases exhilarating landscapes as the Bad River flows through a steep, shadowy gorge.

This geological marvel is part of the Gogebic Range, which continues east into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, historically prized for its iron ore deposits.

To immerse oneself in the park’s highlights, embark on the Doughboy’s Nature Trail, an easy 1.7-mile loop featuring three waterfalls along the route.

Alongside its magnificent geological formations, the park possesses a historical significance, having been developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, with roads, trails, and several log structures echoing that era.

5. Bayfield

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Wisconsin’s smallest city serves as the primary access point for the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore; however, this does not encapsulate the full narrative of a place often recognized as one of the most cherished small towns in the Midwest.

Historically a lumbering town, Bayfield has transformed into a tourist retreat, offering remarkable views of Lake Superior, a captivating maritime legacy, hiking trails throughout the peninsula, and numerous local orchards.

During early June, the fruit trees blossom, celebrating the occasion with a festival in Bayfield, along with the popular Apple Fest in October during the harvest season.

Keep an eye on the schedule at Big Top Chautauqua, a renowned seasonal live music venue that has hosted legends like Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, B.B. King, and Willie Nelson over the years.

6. Wisconsin Dells

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Wisconsin Dells firmly occupies a prominent place on the tourist map, derived from a five-mile sandstone gorge characterized by delicately sculpted cliffs branching along tributaries, ideally observed from a boat tour.

A publicly accessible area is the Witches Gulch, where a boardwalk traverses a dark, mossy ravine.

Of all the locations on my list, Wisconsin Dells stands out as a family-centric destination, attracting approximately five million visitors each year.

In addition to the geological spectacles, visitors can enjoy a plethora of indoor and outdoor water parks (this is designated as The Waterpark Capital of the World), along with zoos, museums, and various attractions. A scenic riverwalk offers another opportunity to appreciate the beauty enveloping the town.

7. Taliesin

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In 1911, amid the controversy surrounding his relationship with Mamah Borthwick, Frank Lloyd Wright returned to the landscape of his youth along the Wisconsin River in the hilly Driftless Region.

Perched on a hillside, Taliesin underwent renovations in 1914 and 1925, and the 800-acre estate is adorned with architecture representing every phase of his illustrious career.

This establishment served as his primary residence and studio for most of his life, embodying his philosophy of Organic Architecture better than any other site.

At its center lies the Taliesin residence, accompanied by structures from the 1890s through the 1950s, such as the Romeo and Juliet Windmill (1896), Hillside Home School (1903), and Midway Barn (1949).

8. Cave Point County Park

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This extraordinary site on the eastern side of the Door Peninsula features breathtaking, rugged beauty.

At Cave Point County Park, one can explore a line of dolomite cliffs that have been sculpted by the waves of Lake Michigan. What intrigues me about this location is its remarkable transformation in character depending on the weather conditions.

During rough surf, Cave Point takes on an exhilarating quality, with waves crashing against the rocks, sending plumes of mist through natural blowholes.

Conversely, hours later, the waves may settle to gentle ripples, inviting visitors to embark on a kayak tour or join swimmers in the refreshing waters.

The park is bordered on three sides by Whitefish Dunes State Park, which offers pristine sandy beaches and the largest dunes along the western shore of Lake Michigan.

9. Peninsula State Park

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Overlooking Green Bay on the Door Peninsula, Wisconsin’s most versatile state park features untouched nature, towering bluffs, historical landmarks, and numerous recreation opportunities.

Primarily, every visitor should aim for the 180-foot Eagle Bluff located on the park’s northern side, home to an observation tower accessible via an impressive 850-foot canopy walk offering extraordinary views of the peninsula, Horseshoe Island, and Eagle Harbor.

Don’t forget to allocate ample time to visit the idyllic Eagle Bluff Light (1868), which is open for tours and boasts fantastic views of the Strawberry Islands.

Peninsula State Park is well-equipped to accommodate its visitors, featuring 470 family campsites, extensive hiking and biking trails, a stunning beach, two golf courses, the White Cedar Nature Center, and a wide array of picnic areas.

10. Newport State Park

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As you approach the northern tip of the Door Peninsula, a sense of seclusion prevails, rendering Newport State Park the ideal location in Wisconsin for stargazing.

The International Dark-Sky Association designated it a Dark Sky Park in 2017, a designation granted solely to areas of the world with minimal light pollution.

During the day, the park offers a rich wilderness experience, benefiting from over 30 miles of trails, all in proximity to the picturesque shoreline of Lake Michigan.

For an authentic outdoor experience, I suggest a backpacking adventure, as the park includes 17 remote campsites accessible only on foot or by kayaking.

11. Cedarburg

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Residents of Milwaukee seeking a tranquil escape can journey 20 miles north to Cedarburg, an artistic small town bustling with charm, rich history, and year-round events.

Situated along Cedar Creek, Cedarburg developed as a mill town in the 19th century, which included the largest woolen mill west of Philadelphia.

The historic district features over 200 structures of significant historical value and includes several listings on the National Register of Historic Places.

One could easily spend a weekend in Cedarburg, leisurely wandering, cycling on the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, and exploring museums, galleries, wineries, craft breweries, and a distillery.

12. Pattison State Park

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In the far northwest of Wisconsin, one can discover the state’s highest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, which soars 165 feet, ranking as the fourth highest east of the Rocky Mountains.

You do not need to be an adventurous spirit to admire one of Wisconsin’s natural wonders, as a parking area is conveniently located off State Trunk Highway 35, traversing the park, while a wooden observation deck provides the perfect vantage point to see the waterfall cascading into the gorge.

Additionally, the smaller Little Manitou Falls is easily accessible from the southern side of the park, while Interfalls Lake features a delightful 300-foot sandy beach.

Pattison State Park can be appreciated in approximately an hour, although I recommend bringing mosquito repellent during the summer months.

13. Perrot State Park

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Located in the Driftless Region, Perrot State Park is situated at the scenic confluence where the Trempealeau River meets the Mississippi. This location offers some of the finest views of the Mississippi available.

The bluffs along the river rise over 500 feet, providing stunning vistas of the river and notable landmarks such as Trempealeau Mountain, which serves as a navigation reference for steamboat captains.

While hiking, be prepared as some trails can be unexpectedly challenging. Close to the confluence, Trempealeau Bay is ideal for summer paddling, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding bluffs.

14. Eagle River Chain of Lakes

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A lesser-known gem in Wisconsin, the Northern Highland is a vast area of forest featuring numerous glacial lakes, including what is recognized as the longest chain of freshwater lakes in the world.

Celebrated as one of Wisconsin’s natural wonders, the Eagle River Chain of Lakes consists of 28 interconnected bodies of crystal-clear water.

For those seeking outdoor recreation, the area offers more than 240,000 acres of public lands in Vilas County alone.

Numerous scenic locations await for hiking, biking, horseback riding, boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Indeed, this region is renowned for its exceptional bass, panfish, and musky fishing, where you can arrange for charters or hire knowledgeable guides for assistance.

15. Lake Geneva

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Since the 1870s, the shores of crystal-clear Geneva Lake in southeastern Wisconsin have transformed into an opulent resort favored by Chicago industrialists.

One notable figure was beer magnate Conrad Seipp, whose stately Queen Anne estate, Black Point, is available for tours in the summer months. Lake Geneva continues to function as a summer retreat, featuring an inviting public beach downtown, presided over by the grand Riviera Ballroom, built in 1932.

A picturesque 21-mile trail encircles the lakeshore, perfect for a leisurely walk to admire the elegant mansions.

Visitors may also delve into the city’s glamorous history at the local museum, embark on various cruises, and explore the array of family-friendly attractions that characterize a contemporary resort town.

16. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

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Wisconsin winters can linger, yet the Bolz Conservatory at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison offers a vibrant escape of color.

This 10,000-square-foot greenhouse features approximately 750 plants spanning over 550 species and cultivars from tropical and subtropical zones. Even during the coldest months, the temperature remains a consistent 18-26 °F. A notable attraction is the carnivorous corpse flower, which blooms only every few years.

Outside, visitors can enjoy 16 acres of meticulously curated gardens, including a rock garden with a lovely stream, a sunken garden, a rose garden featuring an observation tower, a meadow garden, and a Thai garden housing a traditional sala pavilion.

17. Cave of the Mounds

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Situated in the Driftless Area, visitors can descend into the best representation of a limestone cave in the Upper Midwest. Filled with remarkable concretions such as flowstones, helictites, soda straws, oolites, and curtains, the Cave of the Mounds is recognized as a National Natural Landmark.

This geological formation gradually developed over approximately 488 million years and remained undiscovered until an opening was revealed in a quarry in 1939.

The cave has welcomed the public since the following year, featuring concrete pathways, impressive lighting, and informative signage illuminating the scientific and historical significance of the site.

Exploration above ground is equally delightful, allowing for an understanding of the region’s geology and processes along the Karst Trail directly above the cave.

18. New Glarus

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Dubbed America’s Little Switzerland, this picturesque village in Green County was established in the 1840s by immigrants hailing from the Swiss canton of Glarus.

Over the years, New Glarus has preserved its Swiss heritage and actively promoted it throughout the 20th century.

Presently, municipal regulations dictate that any new construction or renovation in the downtown area must adhere to Swiss architectural styles, creating a quaint townscape adorned with chalets while customs such as yodeling and Jass continue to thrive.

Visitors can engage with a host of Swiss-inspired festivals, explore one of the region’s top craft breweries, visit a vineyard, tour a village-style historical museum, and embark on adventures along the 24-mile Sugar River State Trail.

19. Horicon Marsh

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The largest freshwater marsh in the United States spans southeastern Wisconsin, occupying the site of a silted glacial lake.

Extending over 33,000 acres, Horicon Marsh is designated as a Ramsar site, serving as a critical stopover for Canada geese and several species of ducks during migration seasons.

The marsh is divided into a National Wildlife Refuge in the north and a State Wildlife Area in the south, complete with three visitor centers to explore.

Visitors may undertake hikes along a boardwalk to observe egrets, enjoy a three-mile scenic auto tour, or launch a kayak from the State Wildlife Area, accessible from Wisconsin Highway 28. The ideal times to visit are during spring and fall, when the marsh comes alive with migratory Canada geese, drawing numerous birdwatchers.

20. Ephraim

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In my estimation, the most beautiful location to witness the sunset in Wisconsin is this charming village in Door County, located just east of Peninsula State Park. Ephraim offers an unobstructed view westward across Eagle Harbor toward the park’s beech-covered bluffs.

This village has rich historical ties, established in the 1850s by Norwegian Protestants affiliated with the Moravian Church.

Featuring quaint whitewashed structures, the village is remarkably preserved, pedestrian-friendly, and brimming with galleries, studios, and local establishments such as Wilson’s Ice Cream, a staple since 1906.

In summer, the allure of Eagle Harbor is irresistible, whether one opts for kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, yachting, or simply enjoying the surroundings from Harborside Park.

21. High Cliff State Park

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Adjacent to Wisconsin’s largest inland lake, this breathtaking region lies on the Niagara Escarpment, offering spectacular vistas of Lake Winnebago from the summit of the limestone cliffs.

In addition to sheer rock faces, High Cliff State Park encompasses a compelling historical narrative, featuring nine significant examples of conical and effigy mounds constructed between 1,000 and 1,500 years ago by Siouan Native Americans.

The remnants of a lime kiln and quarry persist from operations that occurred from the 1850s to the 1950s.

A fascinating aspect of High Cliff is the remarkable diversity in flora observable within a small vertical span, from the summit to the lakeshore.

Atop the cliff, an observation tower provides panoramic views that extend for miles across the lake and northward over the Fox River valley.

22. Baraboo

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This unique city serves as the gateway to Devil’s Lake State Park and the ecologically and geologically significant Baraboo Range.

However, I believe Baraboo merits considerable attention for its beautifully preserved downtown, populated with numerous historically significant buildings and a vibrant square surrounding the Sauk County Courthouse.

Notably, Baraboo was the winter residence of one of the Ringling brothers, who operated one of the largest circuses in the United States. Their headquarters, established in the 1880s, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and operates as a museum.

23. Brunet Island State Park

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At the confluence of the Fisher and Chippewa rivers, this water-abundant park ranks as one of the top locations in Wisconsin for kayaking adventures.

The vast network of lagoons and gentle channels at Brunet Island State Park presents ample opportunities for aquatic exploration. The namesake island encompasses 169 acres and features the park’s most developed area, with rental equipment available from outfitters in nearby Cornell.

In addition to a variety of boat ramps, visitors will find a swimming beach, nearly 70 campsites, shelters with electricity, and connections to the 19.5-mile Old Abe Trail, alongside the remarkable Ice Age Trail that spans 1,200 miles through Wisconsin.

24. Elkhart Lake

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In the 19th century, stagecoaches and the Milwaukee and Northern Railroad ferried guests to this refined lakeside resort village.

More than a century later, Elkhart Lake remains a premier destination, accentuated by numerous resorts and scenic parks surrounding the 300-acre glacial lake.

One of Wisconsin’s most beautiful sights is Elkhart Lake on a sunny day, when its water radiates a deep blue hue due to its natural springs.

Visitors may relax by the waterfront, engage in fishing, embark on a paddling excursion, or partake in summer festivals that imbue the village with a sense of enjoyment.

Elkhart Lake is also synonymous with motorsports, boasting a legendary road course that opened in 1955 and continues to host over 400 events annually.

25. Richard Bong State Recreation Area

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Concluding my review is the Richard Bong State Recreation Area, a vast expanse of over 4,000 acres comprising grasslands and wetlands in southeastern Wisconsin.

This intriguing locale has a rich history; in the 1950s, it was slated to become an Air Force base, although plans were abandoned just prior to construction.

The gentle beauty of the low, rolling landscape invites activities such as hiking, camping (with 217 sites available), fishing, paddling, and birdwatching.

To experience the area more easily, there’s a paved service road that guides visitors past an unexpected feature—the Champion Tree, a sizable bald cypress that was moved here from Louisiana in the mid-19th century.