15 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin

I spent a full month road-tripping through Wisconsin and was genuinely surprised by how beautiful and varied it was! From tranquil forests and hidden lake islands to quirky towns and Insta-worthy waterfalls, let me take you through my absolute favorite spots…

1. Door County

I completely fell for this scenic corner of the state — rocky shorelines, sandy beaches, cherry orchards, lighthouses, and artsy small towns all framed by glittering Lake Michigan and the shimmering emerald Green Bay. After a 2.5-hour drive along US-141 and WI-57 from Marinette County, I reached Egg Harbor, the relaxed heart of the Door Peninsula, which had an enticing mix of coastal charm and creative energy!

I spent a really idyllic week at the charming Ashbrooke Hotel, hiking through sprawling Peninsula State Park to the historic Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, watching a play under the stars at the atmospheric Peninsula Players Theatre, and sampling local wines at the quirky Door Peninsula Winery. From strolling Fish Creek’s dreamy waterfront to ferrying out to Washington Island to admire the unique Stavkirke church, and laze on family-friendly Nicolet Beach, I completely enjoyed every moment! 

Location: Eastern Wisconsin | Size: ~223 miles | Vibe: rugged, backcountry and deeply immersive | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, red foxes, sandhill cranes, bald eagles, and migrating waterfowl 

My highlights…

• Trying tangy cherry salsa, gooey homemade cherry pie and cinnamon-dusted apple cider donuts at the rustic Wood Orchard Market in Egg Harbor! 

2. Apostle Islands

I thought the 21 islands of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore were extraordinary—rugged shorelines, lonely lighthouses, glowing sea caves, and the vast blue of Lake Superior gave it an almost otherworldly feel. From Amnicon Falls State Park, I drove 1.5 hours to Bayfield, stayed at the Insta-worthy Queen’s View Bed and Breakfast, and hopped the ferry to Madeline Island.

I camped on remote Stockton Island, kayaked beneath the dramatic sea caves of Devils Island, hiked quiet forest trails, explored the historic Raspberry Island Lighthouse and Sand Island Lighthouse, and picnicked beside the shimmering lake—wild, serene, and blissfully off-grid. Locals told me that in winter the caves freeze into glittering ice chambers (January to early March), a rare sight that instantly went on my return list!

Location: Northern Wisconsin, Lake Superior | Size: 21 islands + ~69,000 acres | Vibe: wild, windswept and quietly magical |Wildlife: black bears on Stockton Island, bald eagles, loons, red foxes, and migratory birds.

My favorite highlights… 

• Climbing down the narrow spiral staircase of the 1862 Raspberry Island Lighthouse and exploring the oil-scented keeper’s quarters, filled with brass barometers, oil lanterns, and dusty, handwritten Captain’s logbooks.

3. Wisconsin Dells

I was blown away by Wisconsin Dells — sculpted sandstone cliffs along the expansive Wisconsin River, wooded hills, and hidden waterfalls all blending with the town’s quirky, nostalgic attractions.

After a 1.5-hour drive west from the Ice Age National Scenic Trail through rolling farmland, I arrived somewhere playful and high-energy—part natural wonder, part waterpark capital! Over three packed days, I cruised the river past towering sandstone cliffs, raced slides at Noah’s Ark Waterpark and Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park, hiked the wildlife-rich trails of Devil’s Lake State Park, explored the hands-on Tommy Bartlett Exploratory, caught a show at the historic Palace Theater, and kicked back with a lakeside picnic at Mirror Lake State Park.

Location: Central Wisconsin | Size: population ~3,000 | Vibe: playful, waterpark-packed and family-focused |Wildlife: white-tailed deer, wild turkeys, red foxes, herons, and turtles

My personal highlights…

• Staying at the romantic White Rose Inns & Motel – I loved my solid oak four-poster bed, stone fireplace, cast iron clawfoot tub and and the cozy scent of woodsmoke in the air!

4. Holy Hill

I thought this hilltop basilica and shrine, perched atop one of Wisconsin’s highest points, was breathtaking — its grand neo-Romanesque architecture and stunning views over the rolling Kettle Moraine countryside made it feel serene and elevated! 

This was the first stop on my Wisconsin road trip—I flew into Milwaukee Mitchell Airport, picked up a car, and drove 45 minutes northwest to Holy Hill Basilica, which instantly felt like a peaceful sanctuary above the countryside. I spent a couple of hours climbing the observation tower for sweeping views, admiring the ornate basilica, wandering the forested Stations of the Cross, and soaking up the seriously Insta-worthy scenery—just note the tower stairs are steep and narrow here, so expect a bit of a leg workout!

Location: Southeast Wisconsin | Size: ~435 acres | Vibe: spiritual, hilltop and quietly awe-inspiring | Wildlife: deer, wild turkeys, red-tailed hawks, and songbirds

My favorite highlights…

• Climbing the 178 creaking wooden steps to the observation tower and breathing in pine-scented air while taking in Insta-worthy views of Kettle Moraine’s rolling hills and glacial ridges! 

5. Vilas County

I discovered this picturesque Northwoods region was overflowing with natural beauty — over 1,300 shimmering lakes (the highest concentration in Wisconsin!), thick pine forests, and charming small towns made it feel like a true outdoor playground.

After a 2.5-hour drive east from Big Bay State Park along pine-lined backroads, I arrived in Eagle River, which instantly felt zen-like, rustic, and full of classic Northwoods charm. I spent four easy days boating, kayaking, swimming in crystal-clear lakes, hiking the scenic Heart of Vilas County Trail, and pottering around cute small towns—and while locals raved about its winter transformation into a snowmobile-and-ski wonderland, it definitely felt remote, so arriving stocked up on fuel and snacks was definitely a smart move! 

Location: Northern Wisconsin | Size: ~1,018 sq miles | Vibe: lake-dotted, pine-scented and blissfully low-key | Wildlife: black bears, white-tailed deer, loons, bald eagles, beavers, and otters

My highlights…

• Staying at nostalgic Lodge at Manitowish Waters, I loved the warm pine timber beams, and sipping on a crisp Lakefront Brewery’s Cherry Lager out on the veranda! 

6. Dells Mill

After an hour’s drive north from the Driftless Area through picturesque patchwork farmland, I reached Augusta, where the gristmill sat quiet and timeless. I spent a few hours touring the fascinating old mill and museum, learning its 1800s milling history, photographing the idyllic setting, and soaking up the peaceful, country atmosphere! 

Location: Augusta, West-Central Wisconsin | Size: small historic mill complex | Vibe: rustic, storybook and quietly nostalgic

My favorite highlights…

• Discovering the museum – I saw creaking 1800s water-powered milling equipment, huge wooden gears, iron pulleys, vintage farming tools, and worn black-and-white photos of farmers in horse-drawn wagons!

7. Big Bay State Park

I thought Big Bay State Park was a beautifully raw, untamed place — with empty beaches, rugged sandstone cliffs, clear Lake Superior waters, and quiet forest trails that felt wonderfully remote.

From Bayfield, I took the ferry to Madeline Island, checked into the cozy Lake Superior Lodge for two nights, and drove five minutes across the island to reach the park’s attractive shoreline trails — it felt like the perfect off-the-grid escape. I hiked the accessible Bay View Trail and saw gorgeous lake vistas, kayaked across the mirror-like waters of Big Bay Lagoon, lounged on the sandy shore, and explored the striking sandstone bluffs — it was a perfectly peaceful island adventure! 

Location: Madeline Island, Lake Superior, Northern Wisconsin | Size: ~2,350 acres | Vibe: windswept, wild and beautifully remote | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, black bears, red foxes, bald eagles, and different types of waterfowl.

My personal highlights…

• Going for an ultra-scenic picnic at Point Area, sitting at a bluff-top table under the pines, breathing in the fresh woodsy air, and gazing at Lake Superior’s sparkling blue water and distant sandstone cliffs was a special moment! 

8. Mirror Lake State Park

My personal highlights…

• Dining at the historic lakeside Ishnala Supper Club – the classic relish tray was a standout – it featured foraged morel-marinated mushrooms and rich, aromatic Baked French Onion Soup crowned with golden sourdough croutons! 

9. Amnicon Falls State Park

I was completely charmed by the tranquil Amnicon Falls State Park — where the Amnicon River splits around a tree-covered island, sending four waterfalls tumbling over layered sandstone into an attractive, green forest.

After a 15-minute drive northeast from Pattison State Park, I checked into the waterfront Barker’s Island Inn in Superior, then made the short 20-minute trip to this peaceful park near the Lake Superior shoreline. It felt wonderfully serene and restorative! I spent the day wandering quiet forest trails, watching the waterfalls up close, picnicking near the picture-perfect Horton Covered Bridge, and taking a slow, scenic walk across it to savor the view!

Location: Northern Wisconsin, Lake Superior region | Size: ~825 acres | Vibe: thundering, forested and quietly powerful | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, red foxes, chipmunks, woodpeckers, and songbirds.

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the 1.5-mile Amnicon Falls Trail, I crossed a quaint covered bridge, wandered mossy paths, and felt the cool mist as waterfalls crashed over ancient sandstone rock!

10. Driftless Area

My highlights…

• Staying at the gorgeous Justin Trails Resort, I loved my cozy Stargazer Yurt with its domed skylight for stargazing, rustic wood accents, twinkle lights, a softly crackling fireplace, and peaceful farmland views complete with crickets chirping at night!

11. Pewit’s Nest State Natural Area

This magical spot wowed me with its secluded sandstone gorge carved by the picturesque Skillet Creek, moss-draped cliffs, dense forest canopy, and the soft echo of waterfalls cascading through the trees.

Just 10 minutes north of Mirror Lake, I found a tucked-away entrance near Baraboo that felt wild and whimsical — like stumbling on a secret corner of the forest! I spent the day hiking along Skillet Creek, pausing to admire the dramatic gorge, mossy cliffs, and rushing falls — a peaceful little gem that felt wonderfully off-the-radar! 

Location: Near Baraboo, Central Wisconsin | Size: ~9 acres | Vibe: sculpted, slot-canyon-like and surprisingly dramatic |  Wildlife: white-tailed deer, raccoons, foxes, and salamanders. 

My favourite highlights…

• Taking a dip in the natural swimming hole at the bottom of the gorge, I floated in cool, clear water beneath moss-covered sandstone and towering 40-foot cliffs, with sunlight streaming through the trees above!

12. Ice Age National Scenic Trail

I thought the scenery along the epic Ice Age National Scenic Trail was extraordinary — winding through ancient forests, wide-open prairies, and dramatic glacial terrain with kettles, drumlins, and Insta-worthy views around every bend!

After a 2.5-hour drive southwest from Door County past lakes and farmland, I reached the Greenbush Trailhead in Kettle Moraine State Forest—the start of a hike that felt big, wild, and wonderfully remote. Over two days I tackled 8–10 miles of the Greenbush Loop Trails, camped at the rustic Greenbush Group Campsite, and took in the forest’s glacial landscapes, before finishing with a seven-mile hike to Parnell Tower for sweeping views across the treetops!

Location: Across Wisconsin| Size: ~1,200 miles | Vibe: glacially sculpted, varied and quietly epic | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, coyotes, foxes, sandhill cranes, owls, a variety of songbirds and butterflies.

My favorite highlights…

• Climbing the creaky wooden steps of Parnell Tower – when I reached the top, a cool breeze hit my face while I gazed out at the seemingly endless emerald rolling hills! 

13. Pattison State Park

I found the often overlooked gem, Pattison State Park was actually full of drama — home to Wisconsin’s tallest waterfall, the atmospheric Big Manitou Falls, the quieter Little Manitou Falls, all hidden within dense forest and attractive winding trails.

After a 2.5-hour drive from Augusta through peaceful wooded backroads, I reached the park just outside Superior — it was isolated, dramatic, and the perfect Northwoods escape! I spent nature-filled two days camping beneath the scented-pines, feeling the roar of the Big Manitou Falls, hiking the Big Falls and Beaver Trails, swimming at Interfalls Lake’s peaceful sandy beach, and gorging on a scenic picnic at the impressive overlook.

Location: Near Superior, Northern Wisconsin | Size: ~1,436 acres | Vibe: waterfall-dominated, rugged and quietly awe-inspiring | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, black bears, foxes, bald eagles and woodpeckers.

My favorite highlights…

• Hiking the Big Falls Trail – I loved being surrounded by towering old-growth pines and lush greenery that made it feel like a northern rainforest, especially with the damp earth, filtered light, and distant sound of rushing water!

14. Dave’s Falls

I stumbled on this peaceful hideaway where water tumbled over rocky ledges beneath a leafy canopy, with two beautiful falls — Upper and Lower Falls — to admire.

After a 1 hour 45 minute drive from Vilas County, I checked into the upscale Four Seasons Island Resort, just 20 minutes from Dave’s Falls. The spot felt beautifully tucked away, scenic, and packed full of tranquil forest charm. I spent a dreamy afternoon picnicking by the photogenic river, scrambling over jagged rocks, and wading into the refreshingly cool shallows.

Location: Near Amberg, Northeast Wisconsin | Size: ~15 ft (4.5 m) waterfall | Vibe: tucked-away, mossy and quietly charming | Wildlife: white-tailed deer, foxes, raccoons, squirrels, woodpeckers, songbirds, and river otters.

My highlights…

• Dining on locally made buttery Kringles and sipping frothy Sprecher Root Beer at a picnic table in the Lower Falls area of Dave’s Falls, I loved listening to the rushing water as I ate and even appreciated the handy restrooms nearby! 

15. Allen Centennial Gardens

I discovered the beautiful Allen Centennial Gardens on the University of Wisconsin–Madison campus, with 20 themed spaces — from a tranquil Japanese garden and formal English garden to a reflective water garden — all set around a striking Gothic-style Victorian house.

After leaving Holy Hill, I drove just over 1.5 hours via I-94 and US-151 to Madison, where I spent two nights at the elegant four-star The Edgewater Hotel on the lakefront. With free admission, I wandered the Italianate and French Formal Rose gardens, paused in the zen-like Japanese Garden, explored the rugged Rock Garden, and stood by the reflective pond — it was a serene, colour-rich surprise and a true hidden gem in the heart of the city!

Location: Madison, Southern Wisconsin | Size: ~2.4 acres | Vibe: intimate, botanical and quietly charming | Wildlife: butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, squirrels, and songbirds

My personal highlights…

• The Japanese Garden — I loved hearing the trickle of the serene water basin, feeling the smooth wooden bridge under my feet and smelling the fresh, earthy scent of bamboo, azaleas, and crimson Japanese maples!

Where is the state?

Wisconsin is located in the north-central part of the USA, in an area often referred to as the Midwest. It shares borders with four U.S. states: Minnesota to the west, Iowa to the southwest, Illinois to the south, and Michigan to the northeast.