Set by the two Great Lakes, Wisconsin offers an amazing experience when exploring in wintertime. Whether you’re gliding across an ice rink, hitting the slopes for some skiing, or curling up in a cozy cabin or pub, the Badger State offers something special for everyone.
We’ve compiled the 10 best places in Wisconsin to visit this winter, so you can hit the road ASAP.
Cana Island in Door County
In winter, Cana Island in Door County is enveloped in snow, with temperatures frequently dropping below 20°F (-6°C). This period transforms the island, known for its 19th-century lighthouse, into a serene, snow-covered landscape against the backdrop of the icy Lake Michigan.
The Osthoff Resort (Elkhart Lake)
The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake is a premier AAA Four Diamond destination known for its blend of elegance and comfort, located along 500 feet of scenic lakefront.
Guests can enjoy spacious suites equipped with kitchens, fireplaces, private balconies, and luxurious bathrooms featuring jetted tubs and marble accents. The resort offers a wide array of amenities, including indoor and outdoor heated pools, whirlpools, a full-service spa called Aspira Spa with unique private spa suites, a fitness center, and a cooking school.
Dining options include lakeside restaurants with panoramic views, while recreational activities range from tennis, cross-country skiing, and ice skating to bike and watercraft rentals.
Seasonal family programs and live entertainment enhance the welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect winter retreat combining relaxation with outdoor adventure
Kenosha Harbor
During winter, Kenosha Harbor in Wisconsin experiences freezing temperatures, often dropping to as low as 15°F (-9°C). The harbor, located along the southwestern shores of Lake Michigan, becomes a serene, frozen landscape, with ice covering its waters and surrounding structures.
Snowshoeing at Nine Mile
When in or around Wausau, don’t miss the Nine Mile Forest. It offers scenic views of nature and a stunning 6.7-mile-long snowshoe track, which is ideal for a day in the snow. Alternatively, you can shorten it to 4 miles, making it an afternoon trip.
Not into snowshoeing? No worries. Fat biking, cross-country skiing, and snowmobiling are other winter sports you can engage in at Nine Mile.
Frozen Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva transforms into a winter wonderland as it hosts its annual ice castle event, drawing in crowds eager to experience the icy allure of this unique attraction.
Ice Fishing at Lake Winnebago
Not every state has access to large bodies of water. Luckily, Wisconsin does, and with that come multiple opportunities for ice fishing. One of the favorite spots is Lake Winnebago.
It’s stocked with perch, white bass, walleye, and sturgeon. To stay overnight, there are several rustic lakehouse rentals around. And for city vibes, we recommend heading to Oshkosh or Appleton, both of which are also set on the banks of Lake Winnebago.
Hitting the slopes of Cascade Mountain
Cascade Mountain in Portage is another fantastic destination for winter sports. It features 48 skiing and snowboarding runs suitable for all levels. There is also a 900′ long chute for snow tubing and a magic carpet so you don’t need to walk up.
Ready for some après-ski? You will find several cafés as well as fire pits in the resort. No matter your ability and preference, you and your family will surely enjoy the time on Cascade Mountain.
Ice skating at the Edgewater
Right in the heart of downtown Madison on the shores of Lake Mendota, you will find the iconic Hotel Edgewater. And right next to it, there is an ice rink with magical views of the water.
It’s suitable both for a romantic evening skate and family fun. Get your legs tired, settle down by one of the three firepits, and enjoy a slice of pizza or a sweet treat at the Slicehouse. Firepits are available for rent through their website.
Ice Caves of Apostle Islands
In summer, the red sandstone sea caves of the Apostle Island National Lakeshore are a popular kayaking destination. But many would argue that in winter, they turn into something even more beautiful because they get covered with astonishing ice formations.
The conditions must be just right for this spectacle to happen – it all depends on the temperature and wind direction. Then, you can even walk up to the caves on the frozen lake and see the bottom of it underneath your feet. To have the full experience, better check the weather forecast before you go.
