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.
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.
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.
The 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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Taliesin
Step into the world of Frank Lloyd Wright at Taliesin – his home, studio and 800-acre estate in Spring Green. Taliesin exemplifies the pioneering architect’s philosophy of organic architecture – buildings designed to harmonize with the natural landscape. On Saturday, June 6, “A Day at Taliesin” opens the property up with kids activities, guided tours, local food and drink vendors, and more.
Whitewater
There are plenty of ways to enjoy a long weekend in Whitewater. Stroll the lake walk by Cravath Lakefront Park, hike Bald Bluff Hiking Trail, grab a drink at Second Salem Brewery, or visit the Crossman Gallery on UW-Whitewater’s campus, where you’ll find exhibits by both guest artists and students.
Will’s Northwoods Inn
Summertime at Will’s Northwoods Inn is prime baseball and patio season. Although the Up North-themed Chicago bar is close to Wrigley Field, it’s proud to be a Brewers refuge when the Brew Crew heads south. Cheer Wisconsin sports among fellow fans deep in enemy territory.
AUG. 4-22
Head to Fish Creek and immerse yourself in The Peninsula Music Festival, home of Door County’s international philharmonic orchestra. Experience world‑renowned conductor Rune Bergmann, and more than 90 exceptional musicians – drawn from leading orchestras, ballets, and opera companies around the world – come together for unforgettable performances. This season offers something extraordinary for every music lover. Discover the power of live orchestral music at musicfestival.com.
Staycations
The Harley-Davidson Museum
Discover one of Milwaukee’s most iconic destinations at the Harley-Davidson Museum. See historic motorcycles up close, explore interactive exhibits, and immerse yourself in the stories that shaped America’s most celebrated motorcycle brand. The museum’s riverfront campus invites you to linger, snap photos, browse the shops or grab a bite at Motor Restaurant.
The North Shore of Milwaukee
Just a few minutes north of the city, you’ll find vibrant communities with walkable downtowns, striking natural beauty and more. Sample Wisconsin’s vibrant food scene at Sip & Savor on June 13, when restaurants fill Bavarian Bierhaus from 12-5 p.m. Stay in the North Shore, with seven hotels all within 1 mile of the festival.
Oak Creek
This summer, Oak Creek has a stacked lineup of events. One of the major highlights is the Summer Solstice Music Festival, three days of free music and plentiful food and drink June 19-21 at Drexel Town Square. The square will also see the return of the Oak Creek Farmers Market, Saturdays from May 2-Oct. 24, and the monthly Fare in the Square June 12, July 8 and Aug. 6, when food trucks congregate for family-friendly get-togethers.
Potawatomi Casino Hotel
One of Wisconsin’s largest entertainment destinations, Potawatomi Casino Hotel offers gaming classics like slots and poker, along with bars and restaurants, and a new sportsbook.
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.
