16 Cheap Weekend Getaways in Wisconsin for Couples and Families

Posted on December 16, 2022 | Julie J. |

Wisconsin is filled with great places to spend a weekend relaxing or exploring, thanks to its quaint towns, cultural and historical sites, and natural attractions. If you are looking for inspiration for your next trip and if you are on a budget, discover below the best destinations that will make great cheap weekend getaways in Wisconsin.

From quaint inns and B&Bs to lakefront resorts and cabins, Wisconsin has a lot of budget-friendly accommodation options – add to that inexpensive activities and free things to do nearby and you get the perfect affordable weekend escape that won’t break the bank.

Whether you are planning a romantic weekend getaway or a family trip, you’ll find the perfect weekend getaway destination for you and your loved ones!

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HA Whitney Inn, Columbus

Average rate: $100 a night – Book here

The quaint little town of Columbus and the HA Whitney Inn make for a great inexpensive weekend getaway in Wisconsin from Milwaukee thanks to its charming downtown, cute independent stores, and nearby outdoor activities. The rooms are spacious and comfy, there’s a kitchen you can use, as well as a nice garden and sun terrace.

A tasty breakfast is included and there’s free private parking. The inn is conveniently located, within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and the historic district.

Stroll around town and stop by Columbus Antique Mall for some window shopping, maybe check out what’s happening at Cercis Brewing Company, and go for a walk around Rotary Park and Meister Park – all within walking distance of the inn. You can also tour the historic Governor Lewis Mansion.

Within a short drive, you can hike around the Otsego Marsh trying to spot birds and maybe rent a kayak and explore from the water. You’ll also find plenty of protected areas nearby where you can go for a hike.

Shane Acres Country Inn, Juneau

Average rate: $85 a night – Book here

An ideal destination for a cheap weekend getaway near Milwaukee, the Shane Acres Country Inn offers comfy rooms with a kitchenette, some have a spa bath, and all the amenities needed for a weekend stay. Outside you’ll find a nice outdoor area, a patio, and a grill that guests can use.

You can borrow a book and read it by the fireplace found in the lounge area, enjoy a tasty homemade breakfast, or go for a swim at the outdoor swimming pool.

Nearby you can go hiking, biking, kayaking, and birdwatching at the Horicon Marsh State Wildlife Area. You’ll also be close to the 34-mile Wild Goose State Trail, you can hike part of it, bike (you can borrow some for free at the inn), or, in winter, go on a snow-mobile tour. And there’s a kayak launch on Sinissippi lake.

Not far from the inn, the Edwin Brix Vineyard offers wine tasting while the Pumpkin Center Tap offers cheap and tasty American classics.

Camping at Devil’s Lake State Park, Baraboo

Average rate: $35 a night – Book here

Located on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, Devil’s Lake features breathtaking overlooks from 500-foot quartzite bluffs over a 360-acre lake. There, you’ll find 30 miles of hiking trails, lakeshore picnic areas, swimming beaches, paddling opportunities, and year-round naturalist programs.

When planning a trip on a budget, camping at a state park is a great idea if you love the outdoors. Devil’s Lake offers 3 campgrounds, one of which is open year-round, with showers and restrooms. All campsites have a picnic table, gravel or paved area for parking, room for at least one family tent, and a metal fire ring.

There are a couple of small concession shops within the park. In summer, you can rent kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and paddleboats, and in winter borrow snowshoes for free.

Oak Park Inn, Whitehall

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

Surrounded by nature in a quiet area, the Oak Park Inn features simple yet comfortable rooms for couples and families. Some have a kitchenette and all have a private bathroom, the biggest ones can accommodate up to 4 people. There’s a nice garden with a barbecue area and outdoor furniture.

You can drive to the nearby town of Eau Claire and spend your day antiquing, visiting a couple of historic homes and museums, and sampling some local brews. In winter you can go ice skating and sledding at one of the city’s parks.

In the area, you’ll find many hiking, biking, ATV, and cross-country skiing trails. Closest to the hotel, there are the Buffalo River Trail Prairies State Natural Area, the Perry Creek Trail, and the Clark County Wildcat Park. If you’re visiting during winter, head to Bruce Mound Winter Sports Area for downhill skiing (trails for all levels) and tubing.

Rainbow Ridge Farms, Onalaska

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Located on the shore of the Mississippi River, the Rainbow Ridge Farms B&B will make a great destination for a cheap weekend getaway in Wisconsin for people wanting some peace and quiet in rural settings. Located on an extensive property, you can enjoy the garden, spend some time with the animals, and sample a homemade breakfast every morning.

The rooms are simple and clean, with everything needed for a comfortable stay, some have shared bathrooms, and all have gorgeous views over the garden and/or the lake.

If you want to go for a hike or a bike ride, head over to Minnesota and stop by Great River Bluffs State Park or, closer to the farm, hike to the top of Grandad Bluff Park and take in majestic panoramic views of La Crosse. In town, you can visit the Dahl Auto Museum and its classic cars exhibit.

If you’re visiting with kids, you’ll find a couple of nice parks with playgrounds and the Jump Start Adventure Park, offering lots of fun things to do for kids.

A bit further out, you can spend some time exploring Norskedalen Nature & Heritage Center, and in winter, ski at the Mt. La Crosse Ski Area.

Rib Waters Inn, Rib Lake

Average rate: $75 a night – Book here

Surrounded by small lakes and nature preserves, the small town of Rib Lake makes for a perfect weekend getaway in Northern Wisconsin, The affordable yet comfy Rib Waters Inn is a great place to stay for couples and families on a budget. They offer rooms for two with a private bathroom and a kitchenette and family apartments.

Close to town, you’ll find several trails for hiking, biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ATV riding, and snowmobiling. As well as lakes where you can swim, or go canoeing or kayaking. In winter, you can ice skate on the lakes.

A bit further out, Timm’s Hill County Park is a popular place among local hikers and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is less than an hour’s drive away. You can also visit the historic town of Merrill and the Merrill Historical Society. Just outside of town, you can go for a hike and enjoy the water at Council Grounds State Park.

Spur of the Moment Ranch, Mountain

Average rate: $80 a night – Book here

Set on 12 acres in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, the Spur of the Moment Ranch has direct access to the Nicolet Trail and is a haven of tranquility. The log cabins come in a bunch of different sizes for up to 6 people and most feature a kitchen, fireplace, and private bathroom. You can enjoy the extensive property with its firepits and outdoor furniture.

From your cabin, you can hike, bike, and ride an ATV or snowmobile. You can also plan a day trip to explore the area, stopping by local attractions, scenic overlooks, and for a quick hike or two. Among the most popular nearby places, you’ll find the Mountain Lookout Tower, Cathedral Pines State Natural Area, and Governor Thompson State Park.

For something more cultural, tour the Wabeno Logging Museum and the Lumberjack Steam Train & Camp 5 Museum where you can ride aboard an authentic steam train.

The River Hills Motel, Algoma

Average rate: $90 a night – Book here

Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, not far from Green Bay, the River Hills Motel is a perfect inexpensive weekend getaway destination. The rooms are clean, modern, and quiet – and all feature a private bathroom. You can enjoy the garden, the free on-site parking, and will be within walking distance of restaurants and shops.

In town, don’t miss the Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse and stroll along Crescent Beach Boardwalk (plan a picnic there if the weather is nice!). If you like wine, the Von Stiehl Winery is a must-visit, they organize lots of fun events and, of course, wine tastings.

You can drive to Sturgeon Bay to visit the Door County Historical Museum and the Door County Maritime Museum, stopping by the Sturgeon Bay Canal Light on your way back. In the opposite direction, Wequiock Falls are a popular attraction that don’t require much walking from the parking lot, there’s a grill and a picnic area there.

You’ll also find plenty of trails and parks nearby where you can go for a hike in summer or snowshoe or cross-country ski in winter.

Parkside Inn, Ellison Bay

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here – open from May through October.

Located at the tip of the Door County Peninsula, the Parkside Inn is an ideal vacation spot for families and couples alike. The inn is conveniently located with plenty of fun things to do nearby, making it a great base to explore the peninsula.

Door County is known for its many natural areas, wineries, cultural scene, and museums. You could spend a day relaxing by the lake if the weather is nice or, go for a hike at the nearby Newport State Park. Cave Point County Park and Whitefish Dunes State Park are also popular places to go hiking or kayaking.

The next day you can drive around the peninsula and explore its quaint towns and scenic landscapes. The towns of Fish Creek, Egg Harbor, Bailey’s Harbor, Sister Bay, and Sturgeon Bay are all worth a stop.

Village Inn on the Lake, Two Rivers

Average rate: $120 a night – Book here

A great location to explore the area and its many attractions, the Village Inn on the Lake offers comfortable lodging at an affordable price. Some rooms have views over the lake, a spa tub, and a fully-equipped kitchen, and there’s an indoor pool and hot tub with a bar on site as well as free parking and a playground.

You’ll find several parks nearby to enjoy the shores and go for a hike. West of the Lake Gardens is known for its scenic atmosphere, Point Beach State Forest, for its sandy beach and historic lighthouse, and Woodland Dunes Nature Center & Preserve for its hiking and kayaking trails.

If you like museums, check out the Historic Farm Museum and the Rogers Street Fishing Village in Two River and the Rahr West Art Museum and the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc.

Edgewater Inn & Cottages, Eagle River

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Surrounded by lakes and scenic landscapes, Eagle River is a stunning destination that can be visited year-round. It’s an ideal weekend escape destination in Wisconsin for outdoor lovers and the Edgewater Inn & Cottages is a perfect cheap getaway that doesn’t compromise on quality and comfort.

The rooms are small but well-organized and spotless, each with a kitchenette and a private bathroom. Guests can enjoy the garden and barbecue facilities, the lakefront, and the playground.

In winter, you’ll find plenty of places nearby to go cross-country skiing, fat tire biking, ice skating, snowmobiling, or snowshoeing, while in summer you can go hiking, biking, ATV riding, and enjoy a plethora of water activities from swimming to tubing to kayaking.

There are over 20 trails within a 20-minute drive, so you’ll have your fill of hiking options. The Blackjack Springs Wilderness is a popular hiking area, or on the opposite direction, check out the Shannon Lake Hiking Trail.

Don’t miss the Northwoods Children’s Museum as well if you’re traveling with kids.

Camping at Copper Falls State Park, Mellen

Average rate: $30 a night – Book here

One of Wisconsin’s most scenic state parks, Copper Falls State Park offers camping, hiking, skiing, bicycling, kayaking, and swimming opportunities surrounded by ancient lava flows, deep gorges, and spectacular waterfalls. It’s one of the best destinations in the state for a cheap weekend getaway.

There you’ll find several campgrounds with showers, restrooms, and electricity, some spots stay open year-round. There’s also a backpack site 2 miles out from the parking lot with a stone-lined fire ring and a primitive latrine nearby.

Big River Escape Riverside Cabins, Buffalo City

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

Located along the Mississippi River, Big River Escape Riverside Cabins features affordable chalet and mobile home rentals for up to 8 people with fully-equipped kitchens and separate bedrooms. There’s an outdoor fire pit and barbecue guests can use.

Near the hotel, don’t miss touring the Prairie Moon Sculpture Gardens and the weird Rock In the House, both located in Fountain City, as well as the Buena Vista Park and the Castlerock Museum in Alma. Go for a hike or rent a kayak at Merrick State Park, or for something more adventurous, hike to the top of Five-Mile Bluff Prairie State Natural Area to get stunning panoramic views of the river and its surroundings.

You can also drive to Winona to visit the Winona County Historical Society and the Minnesota Marine Art Museum.

If you’re visiting during winter, a 30-minute drive will take you to the Coffee Mill Ski Area where you can enjoy the 10 ski trails (all levels) and snow tubing.

Plymouth Rock Camping Resort, Elkhart Lake

Average rate: $140 a night – Book here

Surrounded by nature in peaceful settings, the Plymouth Rock Camping Resort features budget-friendly cabins for couples and families looking for a cheap weekend getaway in Wisconsin. The cabins are clean and comfortable and there’s an on-site hot tub, outdoor pool, and picnic areas.

Nearby, the Kettle Moraine State Forest offers 125 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and snowshoeing while you can enjoy the beach and water activities at Firemans Park on Elkhart Lake. A bit further, climb to the top of the Sheboygan Marsh Tower and enjoy the views, then head to Henschel’s Indian Museum.

In Greenbush, you can tour the extensive Wade House Historic Site, and in Plymouth, visit the Plymouth Historical Society and the Plymouth Arts Center.

Apartment Rental, Osceola

Average rate: $135 a night – Book here

A great pick if you want the comfort of home at an affordable place, this house rental in Osceola features a fully-equipped kitchen, a living area, and a bedroom. You can enjoy the garden, its barbecue area, and the fire pit.

In town, don’t miss the Wilke Glen and Cascade Falls, the Osceola & St. Croix Valley Railway Museum, the Standing Cedars State Natural Area if you like hiking, and the Osceola Picnic Bluff for scenic views of the river.

You’ll find a couple of hiking trails nearby, the Osceola/Chisago Loop Trailhead, The Copper Mine Trail, and Interstate State Park are all popular places among hikers.

In winter, you can ski and snow tube at the Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area.

You can also go on a road trip along the Lower St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, extending between Taylors Falls, Minnesota, and the confluence with the Mississippi River.

Big Hollow Guest House, Spring Green

Average rate: $130 a night – Book here

A haven of peace and tranquility, Big Hollow Guest House is a great place to spend a weekend, exploring the area to return to a comfy room with homey vibes. There’s a kitchen that guests can use and a barbecue in the garden.

Nearby, you can go hiking at Spring Green Preserve State Natural Area or Tower Hill State Park. Don’t miss the famous House on the Rock, a Japanese-style house sitting on top of a rock. On your way there, you can stop at the Romeo and Juliet Windmill and keep driving all the way to Governor Dodge State Park. The 25-foot-high natural sandstone arch at Natural Bridge State Park is also worth checking out.

A bit further out, you can take a 1-hour guided tour of the Cave of the Mounds then visit the Driftless Historium & Mount Horeb Area Historical Society and maybe, on your way back, stop by the Black Earth Children’s Museum and the Midwest MicroCar Museum.

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