Devil’s Lake (1 hour from Madison)
For some of the best hikes in Wisconsin, you don’t have to go far outside of Madison. Devil’s Lake has a ton of different hikes with stunning views. But if hiking isn’t your thing, you can spend the day at the lake swimming, paddle boarding, picnicking, and more. Also, Devil’s Lake is known for its climbing, so for all the climbers out there or those who want to get into climbing, check out the park's different routes. After a long day of hiking, Tumbled Rock Brewery & Kitchen is a fun spot to grab a bite, have a beer, and even catch some live music.
Mt. Horeb (40 minutes from Madison)
Scandinavian heritage is a big part of Mt. Horeb’s culture, so it’s not uncommon for you to see trolls around this town. Only 30 minutes away from Madison, this is a great way to escape the city for a day without going very far. In the winter, skiing at Tyrol Basin is a must. In the summer, there are plenty of hikes and bike trails for people to use. Also, different shops sell homemade Scandinavian goods like jewelry, carvings, and clogs. Don’t forget to get a traditional Scandinavian treat from Sjolinds Chocolate House.
Wisconsin is home to many farms, and you are sure to see this on your day trips. (Steverts / Getty Images)
New Glarus (40 minutes from Madison)
This city known for its Swiss roots has a lot to offer. Going on a tour of the New Glaurs Brewery is a popular tourist attraction. And while it’s home to the Spotted Cow, New Glarus is more than just its beer. The town is also the starting point for the 23-mile Sugar River Bike Trail and is also home to the New Glarus Woods State Park.
Wisconsin Dells (1 hour from Madison)
Named the Waterpark Capital of the World, the Wisconsin Dells is a classic stop for many families. There are big parks like Noah’s Ark and the Kalahari but waterparks aren’t the only thing to do in the Wisconsin Dells. For those interested in going camping, a great spot to go is Mirror Lake State Park with different trails and of course… Mirror Lake! Might we also recommend grabbing dinner at the famous Ishnala Supper Club located on Lake Delton?
Even though it is only an hour and a half away from Madison, Lake Geneva can feel like a whole other state. (Vinay Pathak / Getty Images)
Lake Geneva (1.5 hours from Madison)
This lake town is a great place to spend the weekend with friends or family. It’s a common tourist spot during the summer, especially for all of the different boating and lake activities. If you want to feel like you've traveled to an East Coast beach town, this is the spot for you. You can also go to beaches, hike, golf, and much more. Maybe you even want to take a ride on a zip line or go above the city in a hot air balloon!
