While the summer of 2018 is well-over and it’s time to start accepting cold temps and falling snow as our new reality, this is the perfect time to start planning your vacations for the summer of 2019. You’ll most likely be getting together with the whole family to celebrate the holidays, where you can all discuss the ideal Wisconsin vacation. Plus, the thought of your upcoming vacation may be just enough motivation to power through the winter months.
1. Camping
Camping is a quintessential summer activity, and Wisconsin is lucky enough to be home to 13 Camping For The Fun Of It campgrounds. If you love the idea of a weekend full of rustic relaxation and plenty of fun, this is your thing. These campgrounds, scattered across the state, are all about the stuff. From jumping pillows and paddle boats, to mini golf and rock climbing, there is no shortage of activities to keep the kids busy and entertained.
2. Hudson
Nestled along the beautiful St. Croix River and just ten minutes away from the Twin Cities, Hudson is an excellent summer vacation destination. Hop on a sailboat, lay out on the beach, or enjoy a meal aboard the Afton*Hudson River Cruise. Take in the gorgeous Willow River State Park, or enjoy all of the shops and restaurants the city’s downtown area has to offer, including Caribbean food, Tex-Mex, and everything in between.
3. Manitowoc and Two Rivers
Located on the beautiful Lake Michigan coast, Manitowoc and Two Rivers offer visitors a fantastic blend of history, beauty and adventure. Head to the Wisconsin Maritime Museum for an abundance of interesting maritime history and interactive exhibits. Stick with the maritime theme by making your way to Shipwreck Adventures for an up-close look at the area’s many shipwrecks (pssst…this involves scuba diving!). Finish off your trip with a stop at the historic Ed Berners’ Ice Cream Parlor, where the ice cream sundae was invented!
4. Mineral Point
Just an hour west of Madison lies a charming little town nestled among the hills of the Driftless Area. Mineral Point is rich in history and boasts numerous art galleries and shops, and is a wonderful destination for a summer vacation. With its impressive art scene, fabulous restaurants, and charming guest houses, this picturesque little town is sure to keep visitors coming back year after year.
5. Supper Club Tour
What exactly makes a supper club a supper club? Is it the homemade comfort food, the atmosphere, the experience, the lake views? We say all of the above. And a supper club tour is an excellent motivation to travel the state this summer. A few favorites to try: the Buckhorn Supper Club in Milton, Lehman’s Supper Club in Rice Lake, Pinewood Supper Club in Mosinee, and Ishnala Supper Club in Lake Delton.
How is one to decide? Take the holidays to mull over these ideas with your closest family and friends, and then get planning! Happy travels!
— Kristen Finstad is a crew member of the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, “Discover Wisconsin.” The column is published Wednesdays on the Life page in the Times.
