7 Activities
Road Trip to Madison and Surroundings: Lakes, Waterparks, and Beaches
Starts from
Chicago
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Activities
7
Duration
11 hrs 55 min
Length
256 mi
Guide details
Starts from
Chicago
Transportation
By Car
Guidance
Self-Guided
Duration
11 hrs 55 min
Length
256 mi
- Natural Attractions
Chasity Cooper
Traveller
- Put together a board of Wisconsin's finest cheese at Fromagination.
- Have a splashing good time at Noah’s Ark Waterpark.
- Relax and unwind at a fantastic Lake Geneva beach.
This road trip takes you to the best of the recreational Midwest. Before arriving at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, you'll start the morning in the Waterpark Capital of the world. And after you've worked up an appetite, you'll make a pit stop and have lunch at a coveted spot on the campus of University of Wisconsin-Madison. In Lake Geneva, you'll enjoy luscious afternoon cocktails and a stroll on the beach before heading back to the Windy City. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen!
Categories
- Natural Attractions
This road trip takes you to the best of the recreational Midwest. Before arriving at Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, you'll start the morning in the Waterpark Capital of the world. And after you've worked up an appetite, you'll make a pit stop and have lunch at a coveted spot on the campus of University of Wisconsin-Madison. In Lake Geneva, you'll enjoy luscious afternoon cocktails and a stroll on the beach before heading back to the Windy City. Don't forget to pack your sunscreen!
Chasity Cooper
Traveller
- Put together a board of Wisconsin's finest cheese at Fromagination.
- Have a splashing good time at Noah’s Ark Waterpark.
- Relax and unwind at a fantastic Lake Geneva beach.
Day Itinerary
7 Activities
Day 1
255 mi0.7 mi
The Ultimate Midwest "Beach" Day
This route takes you on a water-filled journey to one of Wisconsin's splash-tastic destinations. As you make your way to the Windy City, enjoy one of the most beloved beach towns in the Midwest. Don't forget your swimsuit and goggles!
10:0045 min
UW-Madison Lakeshore Nature Preserve
Not too far from the University of Wisconsin-Madison's campus, Lakeshore Nature Preserve (aka Picnic Point) is a great place to kick off your shoes and let the grass tickle your feet and the lake breeze run through your hair.
49.6 mi
1 hr 10 min
12:002 hrs
Noah's Ark Waterpark
Welcome to the Waterpark Capitol of the World! With many slides of all intensities and a few lazy rivers for those who like to chill, Noah's Ark has something for everyone.
53.2 mi
1 hr 10 min
15:1510 min
Fromagination
After a splash-tastic afternoon, you've probably worked up an appetite. This artisan cheese shop has several styles of Wisconsin cheese, along with all the accompaniments for the perfect picnic basket.
View their lunch menu and order ahead to make pickup a breeze!
View their lunch menu and order ahead to make pickup a breeze!
70.4 mi
1 hr 20 min
17:001 hr
Studio Winery + Geneva Lake Distilling
For an afternoon of art, wine, and spirits tasting, this winery and distillery is a great place to unwind, take an art class or listen to live music.
1.5 mi
5 min
18:151 hr
Apothecary Bar
Lake Geneva is a beach town known for its extravagant Victorian-style homes, and this mansion-turned-hotel is no different. Explore the hotel grounds and grab a drink at The Apothecary Bar.
Keep an eye on their website for hours of their bars and lounges, as they change frequently.
Keep an eye on their website for hours of their bars and lounges, as they change frequently.
0.7 mi
15 min
19:3030 min
Lake Geneva Public Beach
Take in the sights and sounds of the beach. The beach is surrounded by beautiful parks, playgrounds, and restaurants, providing a perfect setting for a fun evening stroll.
80.4 mi
1 hr 30 min
21:301 hr
Azul
Before calling it a day, grab a bite to eat and enjoy the view of Lake Michigan from their rooftop. The menu features items such as ceviche, empanadas, tacos, churrasco steak, and seafood dishes, as well as a variety of cocktails and Latin-inspired desserts. The restaurant has a trendy and upscale atmosphere and is known for its creative and flavorful dishes.