5 Easy Day Trips You Can Take From Milwaukee, My Favorite Included

Brew City is an incredible destination in its own right. With more than 30 breweries, a world-class art museum, and a public market that rivals Pike Place, you could spend years exploring Milwaukee. However, sometimes we all need to take a little break from what’s familiar and challenge ourselves a bit. This guide offers you five easy day trips you can take from Milwaukee.

1. Delavan Lake: A Hidden Gem

• Distance from Milwaukee: Approximately 55 miles

Delavan Lake is often overlooked in favor of its larger cousin, Geneva Lake. Growing up just a couple of hours away in Chicago, I was shocked I hadn’t even heard of it until last year. Delavan Lake is a quiet alternative for a laid-back getaway. 

Book a dinner cruise on the 76-foot Lake Lawn Queen, play a round of golf at Majestic Oaks Golf Club, or explore Delavan’s quaint downtown. If time allows, consider spending the night at Lake Lawn Resort. It’s the perfect family-friendly stay, reminiscent of a present-day version of the lodge from Dirty Dancing.

Cait was hosted by Lake Lawn Resort as part of their trip to Delavan Lake. All opinions and thoughts expressed in this content are their own.

2. Kenosha County: Step Back in Time

• Distance from Milwaukee: Approximately 40 miles

Kenosha County is known for hosting the massive Bristol Renaissance Faire. July through Labor Day, this 30-acre festival welcomes nearly 200,000 visitors. Guests can try their hand at archery and crossbows, among other old-fashioned games. Alternatively, hop on “muscle-powered” rides or feast on giant chicken legs as you browse the markets. In addition to its iconic fair, Kenosha County is home to attractions including the Kenosha Public Museum, Mars Cheese Castle (pick up your cheese curds here!), Simmons Island Beach, and the Dinosaur Discovery Museum.

3. Madison: Wisconsin's Second City

• Distance from Milwaukee: Approximately 80 miles

As the state’s second-largest city, Madison offers its own distinct vibe. Tucked between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona, the small metropolis is bustling with University of Wisconsin–Madison pride. Your "must-do" attractions include a Capitol Tour, exploring the eight-block-long State Street and Union Terrace areas, and sampling local treats at the Dane County Farmers’ Market.

4. Green Bay: Home of the Cheeseheads

• Distance from Milwaukee: Approximately 115 miles

Love them or hate them, the Green Bay Packers have a fantastic fan base. The pride of local cheeseheads is evident from the houses outside of Lambeau Field. Nearly all of the homes near the stadium are decorated to support their beloved team. Even if football isn’t your jam, the team’s gift shop is a lot of fun to explore. Other things to do that don’t involve the leather ball include the Bay Beach Amusement Park, Green Bay Botanical Garden, and Captain’s Walk Winery.

5. Geneva Lake: A Summertime Classic

• Distance from Milwaukee: Approximately 60 miles

Geneva Lake has long attracted the rich and famous. Even the likes of Frank Sinatra, the Wrigleys, and Matthew McConaughey have enjoyed relaxing getaways on these Wisconsin shores. Geneva Lake offers a variety of activities, including boating, swimming, water skiing, and other water sports. 

In addition to time spent on the water, visitors can enjoy strolling through the charming downtown area. There are seemingly endless boutiques, restaurants, and breweries to explore. During my last visit to Geneva Lake, the local breweries were creating beers from the cicadas that had emerged in massive numbers that summer. 

Milwaukee is full of incredible things to do, but don’t miss out on the rest of the Badger State. These five easy day trips from Milwaukee are well worth the adventure. Do you have any other favorite day trips you’d recommend? We’d love to hear about them!