Wisconsin is packed with incredible destinations that make for exciting weekend getaways for families. From the coastal charm of Door County and Washington Island to the European-inspired streets of New Glarus, there’s no shortage of unique family vacations across Wisconsin. This list highlights our top picks for both off-the-beaten-path spots and beloved classics, offering something special for every family.
Midwest
Midwest is best! I grew up in Wisconsin, and my husband grew up in Minnesota. We met in Duluth while going to college, and have started our wee family here in Minnesota too. Currently, we call Minneapolis home. The Midwest, particularly the Upper Midwest, just feels like home to us. We love exploring this area, from road trips to cozy cabin stays. Especially for short school breaks, like MEA, you’ll find us visiting fantastic states like Wisconsin, Michigan, and North Dakota. On a mission to discover the best places to eat, things to do, and places to stay, we hope our adventures inspire a few of yours! Use the guides below to help you plan your own incredible experiences in the Midwest with (or without) kids!
The Ultimate Guide to 14 Fun-Filled Summer Road Trips from Minneapolis with Kids
Few things beat an epic summer road trip with your kids! There is something truly special about embarking on a long-distance journey as a family—call it a right of passage (for kids and parents alike!). And, as a Minnesota family, we’ve packed up our car plenty of times to explore the Midwest and beyond with our young daughter. This article compiles 14 of our favorite family road trips, all within 8.5 hours of Minneapolis.
9 Fantastic Restaurants in Pella, Iowa: A Travel Foodie’s Guide
Pella may be known for its Dutch heritage and tulip-filled streets, but its food scene is just as vibrant! Whether you’re craving Dutch pastries, farm-fresh comfort food, or a perfectly made Reuben, this charming town delivers. Read this to discover our top picks for the best restaurants and places to eat in Pella, Iowa.
A Colorful Itinerary for a Girls’ Trip to Pella, Iowa, during the Spring Tulip Season
Last spring, my mom, grandma, and I took a girls’ trip to Pella, Iowa, and it felt like stepping into a little slice of the Netherlands—right in the Midwest! This charming Dutch-inspired town comes alive during tulip season, with over 300,000 blooms in every shade imaginable, from deep black to vibrant multi-colored petals. My girls’ trip itinerary for Pella covers everything you need to know to plan your own bestie getaway (or, in my case, multigenerational girls’ trip!) to this fantastic Iowa destination!
11 Outstanding Winter Day Trips near Minneapolis with Kids (all within about 90 minutes)
Winter is a magical time to take a fun day trip with your kids! Whether you’re looking for wintery trails or seasonal festivals, there are so many incredible winter day trips to take with kids to Minnesota and Wisconsin. Keep reading to discover my top picks for 12 Magical Winter Day Trips with Kids!
How to Plan the Perfect Fall Day to Washington Island, Wisconsin, with Kids
Adventure awaits on Washington Island, Wisconsin, one of the most unique kid-friendly destinations in the state! Just a short ferry ride from the Door Peninsula, this beautiful island is perfect for a fall trip with kids. Washington Island offers one of the best day trips while visiting Door County with kids. Here’s what to do once you get there!