Milwaukee Magazine | Your 2024 Travel Guide

Your 2024 Travel Guide

From day trips to international treks, plan your next getaway with one of these exciting destinations.

Greater Richland Area

Take a trip to our state’s Driftless Region, full of rolling hills and wide vistas, for a rural retreat. As spring arrives, Richland Center, in the heart of the Driftless, is a scenic spot to rediscover Wisconsin’s natural beauty. There are plenty of options: canoe the Pine River; hike the 354 acres of the Ash Creek Community Forest; explore the preserved effigy mounds at Frank’s Hill; or head underground to Eagle Cave, where you can traverse over 3,000 feet of subterranean passages. After a long day, find refreshment at one of the Greater Richland Area’s restaurants – consider Mexican at Los Amigos 2, upscale comfort food at Pearlfield Bistro and Bakehouse, or farm-to-fork country dining at Branding Iron Roadhouse. greaterrichlandtourism.com

Oconto County

A weekend Up North in Oconto County is a chance to explore, escape and enjoy Wisconsin’s great outdoors. You’ll want to plan time for a hike to Butler Rock, the highest point in the county – it’s 2 miles to the top. If you’re looking to really challenge yourself, head to Wildman Adventure Resort, where you can climb natural rock walls, zip-line through the forest, or even whitewater raft. Be sure to allow time to explore Oconto County’s many boutiques – Olive + Birch sells comfortable, stylish women’s clothes; Woodpickers offers handmade wooden gifts and crafts; and Eventide Design stocks a curated selection of décor, gifts and women’s clothes. And a trip to Oconto County wouldn’t be complete without a meal at one of its supper clubs, such as Maiden Lake and Weatherwood. ocontocounty.org

Sheboygan

DOOR COUNTY ROCK AND GEM

Find a unique gift at this Door County destination. With locations in North Ephraim and Fish Creek, Door County Rock and Gem offers jewelry, crystals, geodes, fossils and more. You can find a beautiful jewel for a loved one, or maybe a statement piece for your home. The expert staff will help you discover the right piece for you. doorcountyrockandgem.com

International Destinations

Planning a big trip? We spoke to Jillian Jibas, owner of JLJ Travel, a boutique custom getaway planner, about three of her top destinations this year. jlj-travel.com

Albania

The “Malibu of the Midwest,” Sheboygan has plenty to offer travelers all year long. With warmer weather on the way, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard from EOS Surf Shop on the lakeshore – if you’re a first-time paddleboarder, they can teach you the ropes. Or rent a pontoon from Sheboygan Watersports and enjoy the majestic waterfront in comfort. When it comes to dining, don’t forget that Sheboygan is the “Bratwurst Capital of the World.” There are plenty of places to grab a delicious fried brat while you’re in town: Schulz’s Restaurant, Nine-o-Two on the Avenue, Sly’s Midtown Saloon, Al & Al’s Steinhaus and more. And you might want to wash those brats down with a beer – stop by 3 Sheeps, one of Wisconsin’s top craft breweries. visitsheboygan.com

The Geneva Inn

Head southwest to Lake Geneva for a few nights away at The Geneva Inn. The waterfront hotel offers luxurious rooms, including stunning views, balconies, soaking tubs and more. Enjoy dinner at the hotel’s Grandview Restaurant, where you’ll find steaks, seafood and delicious seasonal cuisine. genevainn.com

“An up-and-coming destination in the Balkans, this is a sun worshipper’s paradise in the summer. Moreover, while Europe’s most popular beach destinations often become overcrowded in the summer, Albania remains, for now, off-the-radar for many. This allows for fewer crowds, greater availability and lower prices.”

Puglia, Italy

“A bit of an Italian hidden gem, this is a fabulous and laid-back place to find some unspoiled beaches, a farm-totable culinary scene, and plenty of vineyards where you can immerse yourself in Italy’s lesser known, but equally impressive, wine culture.”

Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula

“Less traveled than Croatian powerhouse destinations of Split and Dubrovnik, Croatia’s Istrian Peninsula in the country’s north is known for its charming hilltop towns and exquisite culinary delights, including truffles and fine wines.”

Staycations

Not in the mood to venture too far? Sometimes a night at a local hotel offers just the rest and relaxation you need.

The Plaza Hotel

This art deco hotel is centrally located, close to the Milwaukee Art Museum, Cathedral Square, the Marcus Center and other Downtown and East Side destinations. In the morning, you can enjoy breakfast at Café at the Plaza, a charming throwback to the 1920s. plazahotelmilwaukee.com

Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel

Saint Kate is a destination in itself. The artsy spot boasts galleries, restaurants and a hopping lobby bar with live music most evenings. If you’re looking for an immersive cultural experience, book one of the unique artist-designed rooms. saintkatearts.com

The Pfister Hotel

Pamper yourself at this classic Milwaukee hotel. Right in the heart of Downtown, the Pfister has a full-service spa, the upscale Mason Street Grill, and Blu cocktail lounge on the 23rd floor, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the city and beyond. thepfisterhotel.com

Gaming Getaways

Stay close to home or head to the Northwoods for a weekend away with Potawatomi Casino Hotel.

Potawatomi Casino Hotel Milwaukee

Whether you want to stay a weekend, or just stop in for a day of gaming, Potawatomi Casino Hotel has you covered. As it finishes a massive $100 million renovation, the space is now home to new restaurants, like Rock & Brews, an updated gaming floor, and Wisconsin’s premier sportsbook. That’s all in addition to the slots, poker, bingo and table games you’d expect to find at a full-service casino. paysbig.com

Potawatomi Casino Hotel Carter

Take a drive north to this Wabeno casino, which was recently renovated. It has a variety of dining options, luxurious accommodations and the many games Potawatomi Casino Hotel is known for, all with a unique Up North vibe. cartercasino.com ◆