Wisconsin is a major state in the Midwest. Home to cities like Milwaukee and Madison, it is a relaxing destination with a mix of natural beauty, industrial heritage, and charming art scenes. In this article, we have handpicked the 7 best weekend getaways in Wisconsin, from secluded nature retreats to cool design boutique hotels.
Wild Rice Retreat
Wild Rice Retreat is one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin. Nestled on the shores of Lake Superior in Bayfield, it is a restful retreat surrounded by calming landscapes. Designed by David Salmela, the 31 lodges come in three configurations: RicePod™, Nest, and Treehaus. They feature a Scandinavian design, each outfitted with modern furniture, a private patio, a kitchenette, and Parachute linens.
Besides, the retreat features a range of guided experiences, such as meditation & yoga sessions, watercolor sketching, mushroom foraging, immersive workshops, and more. You can also rejuvenate at the Sauna Haus and Rain Room. Daily meals are included in your stay. Rooted in nourishment, the in-house kitchen offers Ayurvedic-inspired meals that focus on fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Hotel Verdant
Hotel Verdant is one of the best boutique hotel getaways in Wisconsin. Situated in downtown Racine, it occupies a historic 1898 brick building that was once the Zahn’s Department Store. Taking cues from its natural surroundings, the interior is refurbished with a bright Scandinavian design. The 80 guest rooms feature soothing earthy hues, clean modern furniture, leather headboards, and curated artwork.
During your stay, you will have access to a fully-equipped fitness space and a revitalizing wooden sauna. You will also discover two dining and drinking spaces inside Hotel Verdant. On the ground floor, Marguerite is a cozy restaurant that specializes in home-style Italian dishes. On the other hand, Eave is a spacious and breezy rooftop bar with handcrafted botanical cocktails and sweeping views.
Lake Lawn Resort
Lake Lawn Resort is a tranquil weekend getaway in Wisconsin, roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Chicago. Nestled along two miles of Delavan Lake’s shoreline, the resort has been a year-round getaway for over 140 years. Recently renovated, the 271 guest rooms evoke an authentic Wisconsin lake-house charm. They are each outfitted with coastal-inspired furnishings, a balcony, and a granite bathroom with a massage tub.
For golf lovers, the resort features an 18-hole Majestic Oaks Golf Course where you can go for a swing. There are also three outdoor and indoor pools, hot tubs, sports courts, a 9,000 sq ft spa, and more. The resort offers a range of dining options on-site. 1878 is the signature restaurant, serving wholesome dishes made from fresh local ingredients. You can also grab a light bite or ice cream at The Isle of Capri Café.
Saint Kate Art Hotel
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is a boutique hotel in Wisconsin for art lovers. Situated in Milwaukee’s Theater District, it transformed an old building into a modern creative hub filled with contemporary artwork. The 219 guest rooms and suites are stylish and playful. They come in a white, black, and dark grey palette, highlighted by sleek furnishing, abstract patterns, and curated local artwork.
Dining is the last thing to worry about, as Saint Kate boasts five distinct culinary concepts on-site. You will discover options from Proof Pizza’s fast-casual Neapolitan-style pizza to Aria’s comforting dishes and sushi. During your stay, make sure you take some time to visit the rotating artwork & exhibitions on the first and second floors. There is also a 24-hour gym to keep your fitness routine intact.
The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa
The Abbey Resort & Avani Spa is a relaxing weekend getaway in Wisconsin. Roughly a 1.5-hour drive from Chicago, the resort is the perfect place for exploring Lake Geneva. The 90-acre manicured ground is home to a range of accommodations, from comfy guest rooms to two-bedroom villas. The spacious villas are perfect for families and groups, each with a full kitchen, a living room, and private balconies.
A major highlight of the resort is Avani. The 35,000 sq ft full-service spa boasts a private atrium pool, fitness center, sauna, salt & steam rooms, and outdoor lounging areas. You will also have access to indoor and outdoor pools, sports equipment rentals, bonfires, Fontana Beach passes, and more. As for meals & drinks, you can enjoy comforting classics at Waterfront or savor seasonal dishes at 240° West.
The Edgewater Hotel
The Edgewater Hotel is one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin. Nestled on the southern shore of Lake Mendota, the upscale retreat in Madison boasts some of the best views you can find. Occupying the Wisconsin & the Langdon Building, the interior blends modern comfort with Art Deco sensibilities. The 202 guest rooms are each fitted with custom furniture, Kohler fixtures, and a spa-style bathroom.
The wellness experience at The Edgewater Hotel is exceptional. The 10,000 sq ft spa features an indoor relaxation pool, a fitness center, saunas, lounge areas, and a wide variety of treatments. You will also discover a range of dining options on-site. For instance, The Statehouse specializes in modern Midwestern cuisine, while The Boathouse is a lakefront restaurant with comforting Wisconsin favorites.
Alpine Resort & Golf
Alpine Resort & Golf is one of the best weekend getaways in Wisconsin. Located in Door County’s Egg Harbor, the lakefront resort has been an iconic golfing destination since 1922. Ranging from one to three bedrooms, the cottages are dotted across the property. They feature a white modern design with well-appointed amenities like fully renovated baths, a mini-fridge, a microwave, and a private porch.
Alpine Resort is the perfect place for golf lovers, where you can go for a swing at the beautiful Alpine Golf Legacy Nine. It is also home to the Alpine Sports Club, which features tennis courts, pickleball courts, basketball hoops, and yoga classes. For meals and drinks, Burton’s on the Green and Burton’s on the Bay are signature restaurants that serve everything from comforting dishes to signature cocktails.
