Cozy Lodging for the Perfect Romantic Getaway in Wisconsin

Cozy Lodging for a Romantic Getaway in WisconsinIt's that time of year, after the busy rush of the holidays, when romance is on the hearts and minds of many.  Want to know the best places to stay in Wisconsin for a little bit of romance?  We have exactly what you're looking for!

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, making this the absolute perfect time to plan a romantic getaway in Wisconsin. When looking for romantic and cozy lodging for the occasion, you'll find that our collection of Bed and Breakfasts is exactly what you had in mind.

Our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast member Inns vary greatly in their style, locations, and offerings, but one thing they do have in common is that they are one-of-a-kind, and offer the best places to stay in Wisconsin. Not only that, but our Innkeepers are experts in genuine Wisconsin hospitality, and their quality accommodations will be the foundation of any great romantic getaway in Wisconsin. Next time you're looking to find that perfect romantic getaway, we urge you to seek the unique and book a room at one of the best places to stay in Wisconsin today!

6 Great Places For a Romantic Getaway in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is an incredibly romantic state. It's hard to go wrong when choosing a destination in Wisconsin, but we've put together a list of 6 of Wisconsin's most romantic towns worth visiting. Each of these towns house at least one of our incredible member Inns for cozy lodging at the end of a perfectly romantic day.  Where will your next romantic getaway in Wisconsin be?

Cozy lodging for the perfect romantic getaway in WisconsinHudson

The River town of Hudson, Wisconsin has grown increasingly popular as a place for a romantic getaway in Wisconsin. The St. Croix River serves as the scenic backdrop to this beautiful town, which houses a trendy downtown and a variety of delicious restaurants and great shops. Popular activities to do here include hot air ballooning over the scenic river valley, and visiting Willow River State Park and Willow Falls.

For lodging, we recommend the Phipps Inn, a beautiful Victorian house in the St. Croix River Valley. It's close to restaurants, shops, and a romantic stroll along the river. 

Cedarburg

The town of Cedarburg, just outside of Milwaukee, is a popular place for a romantic getaway in Wisconsin. There are great wineries in the area, including the Cedar Creek Winery, along with wine's favorite pairing, great cheese. Spend an afternoon tasting a piece of Wisconsin, then visit the only covered bridge left in the entire state, before finishing up in the historic downtown of Cedarburg.

For lodging, we recommend Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast, a romantic Inn nestled in the woods just outside of Cedarburg. They house an on-site spa and have access to the sensational Kettle Moraine Forest.

Baraboo

If you love going on adventures together, we can't recommend the Baraboo region enough. Baraboo is located near Devil's Lake State Park, which is open year-round and perfect for the adventurous couple. There are plenty of other great parks and trails in the area, perfect for cross country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, and hiking and birdwatching throughout the remainder of the year. 

For lodging, we recommend the Inn at Wawanissee Point, an adults-only Inn nestled at the top of a picturesque 42-acre estate, or the Ringling House, a unique and historic home built by Charles Ringling, one of the founders of the famous Ringling Brother's Circus. 

Eau Claire

Renewing your relationship and reigniting your spark is easy in the town of Eau Claire. The town of Eau Claire is a romantic city with an extensive trail network and parks system, several breweries to enjoy, great dining like The Informalist and the High Shores Supper club, along with a variety of shops to browse. Afterward, curl up in front of a fire and enjoy sweeping views of the Chippewa Valley from your lodging. 

For lodging, we recommend The Inn on Lake Wissota, located just minutes from downtown Chippewa Falls, and a short distance away from everything Eau Claire has to offer. 

Bayfield

In Bayfield, you'll find a quaint harbor town where you can do as little or as much as you want for the duration of your stay. Sit back and soak up the harbor views, meander through the town's many shops, take a ferry ride to Madeline Island, or canoe or kayak in warm weather.

For lodging, we recommend the Old Rittenhouse Inn, a historic house that offers on-site dining, a wide variety of accommodations, and scenic views of Lake Superior. 

Sturgeon Bay, Door County

Door County has long been considered one of the best places to enjoy a romantic getaway in Wisconsin.  Disconnect from your every day, and let the rural atmosphere and natural beauty of Door County whisk you away. There are plenty of wineries, breweries, and a distillery for you to enjoy when you want to. Old fashioned supper clubs, fireside dining, and fine dining establishments beckon you. Explore lighthouses by day, and marvel in the magic of a Door County sunset come evening. 

For lodging, we recommend either The Scofield House, an elegant Victorian home that offers an easy walk to downtown Sturgeon Bay, or the White Lace Inn, nestled in a quaint neighborhood in the historic heart of downtown Sturgeon Bay. 

Find the Most Unique Places to Stay in Wisconsin

cozy lodging for a romantic getaway in WisconsinSometimes, the perfect romantic getaway means finding someplace with endless adventures for you to enjoy together. At other times, it means finding a romantic cabin or room somewhere beautiful and spending an entire weekend together indoors.

If you're looking for the best and most unique places to stay in Wisconsin, you've come to the right place! No matter how much or how little of Wisconsin you end up seeing while here, we know time spent at any of our Bed and Breakfasts will be both romantic and memorable.

To find the best deals, specials, and packages, you should always book your getaway directly on the website of the property you're interested in. Come visit us this winter, and let us show you how to sweep your loved ones off their feet. Book your stay at one of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts today, and discover for yourself why we offer the most unique places to stay in Wisconsin. 

 

 

10 Fun Things to do in Wisconsin This Winter

10 Fun Things to do in Wisconsin This WinterIf you're looking for things to do in Wisconsin this winter, we have the perfect guide for you. Winter in Wisconsin is incredible fun, and our Innkeepers will be your perfect guide! Though it may be cold outside, that doesn't mean you have to stay indoors. In fact, Wisconsin is the perfect wintry destination, complete with a variety of fun things to do. Come spend some time on our cross country ski trails, get in touch with the place where snowmobiling was created as you speed down the miles of snowmobile trails, or strap on a pair of snowshoes and head out into Wisconsin's winter wonderland. 

There is little doubt about it.  There's something magical about Wisconsin when it's covered by a powdery blanket of snow. Pair your winter adventures with a stay at one of our member's romantic Inns, and you have the perfect getaway. Experience Wisconsin for yourself this winter, and book a room at one of our unique Bed and Breakfasts.

10 Things to do in Wisconsin This Winter

If you haven't yet made a trip to Wisconsin during the snowy winter months, we can definitively say you're missing out on something special. Wisconsin is an exceptional destination for snow-lovers. This is only made better by the fact that our Inns are located near some of the state's top attractions. Wisconsin really is the perfect place to get away this winter.  Come see this magical winter wonderland for yourself!

Many of the following activities can be enjoyed just about anywhere in the state, so turn to our knowledgeable Innkeepers for their local recommendations on the best places to enjoy these winter activities in Wisconsin.

  1. With over 25,000 sensational miles of snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, there is truly no shortage of fun things to do in Wisconsin in the winter.  Snowmobiling is one of the most popular winter activities in the state. After all, the first snowmobile sled was created here!  
  2. Cross country skiing is another popular winter pastime in Wisconsin. From the American Birkebeiner in February to groomed and ungroomed trails around the state, there's something for all abilities in Wisconsin. See our previous blog for some of our favorite cross country skiing destinations. 
  3. Snowshoeing is one of the easiest ways to enjoy winter in Wisconsin. Many of our member B&B's offer snowshoes, and have access to trails right on their own properties. Moreover, there are a number of groomed and ungroomed trails around the state suitable for snowshoeing. 
  4. In years past, biking was often relegated to spring, summer, and fall. By winter, bikes around the state were put away for the season. Fat Tire Biking has changed that, allowing Wisconsinites to reclaim previously hard-to-reach areas on two wheels. Fat bikes have extra-wide rims with low-pressure tires making it possible to glide across the snow with ease.
  5. Granite Peak Ski Area in Wausau is the perfect place to head for Downhill Skiing and Snowboarding, but it's not the only place to go in Wisconsin. Other downhill skiing destinations include Trollhaugen Outdoor Recreation Area in Dresser, Whitecap Mountains Resort in Upson, Sunburst near West Bend, or Cascade Mountain and Wilmot Mountain in southern Wisconsin.
  6. Have you ever been Skijoring? It's an exhilarating combination of dog sledding and cross country skiing, and it's become quite popular around the state. You can even find skijoring trails and lessons at Justin Trails Resort, a member of the Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast association.
  7. The fishing doesn't stop in Wisconsin just because it's cold outside.  As the snow begins to fly and the lakes and ponds freeze over, you'll soon spot shanty's and anglers outside trying their hand at ice fishing. It's a time-honored tradition here in Wisconsin. 
  8. Enjoy Wisconsin's wintry wonderland from the warmth and comfort of a snow train.
  9. Keep an eye on the weather, and head to the winter ice caves near Bayfield as soon as they form. The caves are accessible only when Lake Superior freezes, forming a land bridge to the cave. They are well worth the wait and the planning!
  10. Looking for new things to do in Wisconsin this winter? Try your hand at ice climbing! Governor Dodge State Park, which offers group climbs, is a great place for this.

The Best Lodging in Wisconsin

10 Fun Things to do in Wisconsin This WinterIf you want to stay in the best lodging in Wisconsin, then look through our unique collection of Inns. We offer a range of accommodations that cater to a variety of needs. After a day spent exploring Wisconsin's winter wonderland, you'll be looking for a warm and comforting place to wind down, rest, and recuperate. A few days spent with our extraordinary hospitality, and you'll find yourself never wanting to leave. 

After one of the best nights of sleep you'll have away from home, start a new day off on the right foot with our exceptional breakfasts. Multi-course breakfasts are one of the many perks you'll enjoy when you stay at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast.  Each day statts with a breakfast made fresh by your Innkeeper.

Come experience a small slice of this winter wonderland, and book a room at one of our unique Bed and Breakfasts today!

 

10 Great Places for Cross Country Skiing in Wisconsin

Cross Country Skiing in WisconsinCross country skiing and snowshoeing are two of the most popular winter sports in Wisconsin, and are both an extraordinary way to explore the state's exceptionally beautiful winter landscapes. Many of the best places for winter activities like these are Wisconsin's State Parks and forests. These protected lands are beautiful any time of year, but when the snows begin to fall, they take on an extra magical quality that simply must be enjoyed.

Some trails are single-track for traditional cross country skiing, while others are built for skate-style skiers, and still others are wide enough for both. Wherever you end up this winter, make sure one of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts are at the heart of it all.

When it comes time to find the best places to stay in Wisconsin, you'd be hard-pressed to do better than our collection of Inns. Our member properties are located in all the best destinations around the state, ready to welcome you with the warm hospitality we've become known for. Find your special place this winter, and book a room at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today!

Cross Country Skiing in Wisconsin

With over 700 cross country skiing trails in the state (and even more ungroomed trails), it's impossible to list all of the wonderful places for cross country skiing in Wisconsin. But, we do have a few great recommendations to get you started, including some properties that have trails on their very property. Travel Wisconsin provides a great snow report tool that can help you time your trip to optimal conditions. 

  1. Justin Trails Resort near Sparta has its very own network of groomed cross-country ski trails on their 200-acre property.  When you're ready to venture out for more, they are near Wildcat Mountain State Park, the Kickapoo Valley Reserve, and the Black River State Forest, all excellent destinations for cross country skiing. 
  2. Devils Lake State Park and Mirror Lake State Park near Baraboo both offer exceptional trails for cross country skiers. 
  3. Nine Mile Forest and Sylvan Hill Park in Wausau are two of the most popular places for cross country skiing in Wisconsin
  4. Getaway up north in Sturgeon Bay, and enjoy some wonderful winter recreation on the Ahnapee State Trail, at Whitefish Dunes State Park, where you can cross country ski along the bluffs of Lake Michigan.
  5. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary in Green Bay is the perfect place for Beginners to test out their stamina on cross country ski trails. 
  6. The Lapham Peak portion of the Kettle Moraine State Forest is located near Waukesha and is a great place for cross country skiing. It offers one of the longest downhill portions of ski trails in the state. There's a warming hut along the trail, and both rentals and lighted night skiing are available. 
  7. Mt. Ashwabay near Bayfield offers more than 40 km of cross country ski trails, and exceptional views of the area, including views of the Apostle Islands.
  8. Hartman Creek State Park in Waupaca is a beautiful place to spend the day cross country skiing. The nearby Iola Winter Sports Club is also a great place to spend the day (or night!) on the 20+ km of trails. They also host a ski jump, if you feel so inclined.
  9. Copper Falls State Park near Ashland offers multiple loops of classic and skate-groomed trails suitable for a variety of ability levels. Skiers will enjoy winding through mature hardwood forests and enjoying the scenic views of the Bad River.
  10. Blue Mound State Park in Blue Mounds, home to the highest point in southern Wisconsin, features excellent cross country skiing opportunities for all abilities. 

Ski the Birkebeiner Cross Country Ski Event in 2020

Cross Country Skiing in WisconsinThe American Birkebeiner Cross Country Ski event is North America's largest and most prestigious X-C ski marathon. It's an extraordinary event that will take place from February 22, 2020. In total, 12,000 cross country skiers from around the world will participate in the Birkebeiner (50k Skate/55k Classic), the 29K Kortelopet, Prince Haakon 15K, the children's Barnebirkie, and Junior Birkie.

The 107-kilometer Birkie Trail system, located between Hayward and Cable, Wisconsin, attracts a variety of athletes around the year but is never more spectacular than it is during the winter.

The Best Places to Stay in Wisconsin

At the end of a long day on Wisconsin's cross-country ski trails, we know you'll be ready for someplace warm to relax and unwind. That's why we recommend staying at our collection of Inns, rated as the best places to stay in Wisconsin. Make the most of these cold winter months, and enjoy getting out and exploring the beautiful state of Wisconsin! A great getaway isn't complete without exceptional lodging, which is exactly what you'll find at our member Bed and Breakfasts. 

Our Innkeepers invest a lot of time and energy into making sure they offer the best places to stay in Wisconsin, which starts with offering you accommodations as close to feeling like home as possible. Start your day off on the right food with an impeccably-prepared breakfast. Our innkeepers take incredible pride in their recipes and provide you with a delicious meal at the start of your day! We take time to make sure every detail of your stay has been thoughtfully tended to. Use our search tool to find the best places to stay in Wisconsin this winter!

 

12 Waterfall Hikes to Take in Wisconsin This Spring

12 Best Waterfall Hikes in Wisconsin Spring is one of the best times of year to go chasing waterfalls in the beautiful state of Wisconsin. The melting winter snows and rainy spring months create swollen rivers and waterfalls that are truly spectacular sights to behold.

In a recent blog, we touched on some of the wonderful hiking trails around the state; especially those trails that are off the beaten path and which may not yet be on your radar.  This month, we'd like to talk about another popular type of trail in Wisconsin.

All over the state, there are beautiful trails that lead to gorgeous waterfalls. The lure of a scenic waterfall at the end of a hike is irresistable, especially during these beautiful spring months. The state of Wisconsin has plenty of lakes, rivers, and forests, which of course also means plentiful waterfalls.

No matter where you choose to vacation, odds are you'll be near one of these gorgeous waterfall hikes. And if you're looking for some of the best places to stay in Wisconsin, we can help with that, too! Choose from our member Bed and Breakfast listings, where you'll find the top-rated places to stay in Wisconsin. 

12 Best Waterfall Hikes in Wisconsin

There are a number of waterfall hikes in Wisconsin worth taking. Some are popular, and therefore the trails more crowded.  Others are less frequented and just as beautiful, if not more so. A number of Wisconsin's best waterfalls are concentrated in the northern part of the state, but there are several worth visiting in other areas as well.  Browse through this list of the top waterfall hikes, and see where Wisconsin's beauty will take you.

  • Though it's one of the more obvious waterfall hikes to include, no list would be complete without Big Manitou Falls in Wisconsin. It's the tallest waterfall in the state, plunging down a magnificent 165 feet in Pattison State Park. 
  • Amnicon Falls isn't too far from Big Manitou Falls, and is certainly worth seeing if you're in the area.  The upper and lower falls are breathtaking in their own right, but when viewed from the park's signature covered bridge, it elevates the experience. 
  • Guests staying near the Bayfield area won't want to miss Lost Creek Falls, a true hidden gem. The waterfall cascades over a mossy ledge in a picturesque gorge, and can be walked behind for a truly beautiful vantage point.  It's a great place to capture an instagram-worthy photo, too! 
  • 12 Best Waterfall Hikes in WisconsinIn Wisconsin's beautiful Northwoods, you'll find Potato River Falls cascading down a series of stairs through the river gorge. 
  • A nearby gem to Potato River Falls is Copper Falls State Park. The namesake falls is worth the journey, where you'll enjoy the sights in this breathtaking red granite canyon, with the waterfall dropping 30 feet. 
  • In the west on the Michigan border near Minneapolis, visitors will find one of the prettiest waterfall hikes in the state in Willow River State Park. Willow Falls takes several drops on the river, and hikers can get up close and personal with the waterfall, making it an excellent choice for photographers.
  • Just around the corner from Willow Falls is Cascade Falls, in Wilkie Glen on the St. Croix River. Visit at dusk, and you'll be delighted by the LED light show in the falls. 
  • In southern Wisconsin, near Madison, hikers will love the short trip to Stephens Falls in Governor Dodge State Park, which during the spring and summer is framed by the vibrant greens of moss and ferns.
  • North of Madison, head to Montello's Granite Querry, where four waterfalls spill over the walls of the querry, delighting visitors.
  • In central Wisconsin near Wausau, you'll want to make a stop at the Dells of the Eau Claire River. Stones in the river have been carved out over centuries, and these ancient volcanic rocks make for beautiful cascading waterfalls.  It's a delightful place for a picnic, and on warmer days you can even splash around in the water yourself. 
  • In Northeastern Wisconsin near Green Bay, waterfall enthusiasts will love Marinette County's waterfall tour. Marinette county is fondly referred to as Wisconsin's waterfall capital. The self-guided tour includes gems like Veteran's Falls, Strong Falls, and Long Slide Falls. 
  • There are two great waterfalls in Brown County near Green Bay:  Wequiock Falls and Fonferek Falls, both of which make beautiful cascades over parts of the Niagara Escarpment.

The Best Places to Stay in Wisconsin

Whether you see just one waterfall or create your own tour of the state to see them all, there's a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast nearby ready to welcome you for a comfortable night (or more) of rest. Not only do these Inns represent some of the best places to stay in Wisconsin, but they offer a broad range of accommodations and styles.

Our member Inns range in style and amenities, but one thing is a constant: You'll be welcomed with unbeatable hospitality, incomparable local knowledge, and a delicious breakfast made daily from scratch. This is, after all, what makes our Inns the best places to stay in Wisonsin. Seek the Unique in Wisconsin, and stay at one of our Bed and Breakfasts this spring while touring the best waterfall hikes our state has to offer. 

Think Green - Warm Up with Us – B&B Getaway Giveaway

Think GREEN … not what’s deep under the snow or St Paddy’s Day, but “traveling green”.  Innkeepers are doing their part to protect our environment while you enjoy a getaway in comfort and style.  Think earth-friendly cleaning & laundry products and a breakfast that supports local farmers – or features juicy tomatoes right from the inn’s garden. WBBA is honored to have as members Pinehurst Inn (Bayfield) which earned the highest score, and Artha Sustainable Living Center (Amherst) at #2 in Travel Green Wisconsin’s certification program. And, you can win a 2-night stay at either inn by entering our facebook contest!  On a final note, about 40 B&Bs throughout the state have earned their Travel Green certification. [caption id="attachment_1407" align="aligncenter" width="230"]Travel Green in eco-elegance at Pinehurst Inn located in Bayfield. Travel Green in eco-elegance at Pinehurst Inn located in Bayfield.[/caption]  

We're Your Sherpa for Hiking Trails in Wisconsin!

In the southern part of the state, The Roth House B&B of Soldiers Grove says there are lots of great opportunities for hiking just a short distance from the inn.  They include:  Hogback Prairie, Kickapoo Valley Reserve, and Pikes Peak State Park. All three of these provide unique opportunities to explore the Driftless Region.  Cameo Rose Victorian Inn in Belleville boasts 4 miles of beautifully groomed hiking trails right on their 120 acre wooded property.  They also have a managed forest (Gary eliminates all invasive species, prunes lower tree branches, cleans up all poison ivy, etc.) and maintains wide, mowed paths throughout the meandering hillsides complete with unique rock formations, a wide assortment of colorful songbirds, wild turkeys, hawks (even an eagle or two) and lots of deer and other wildlife. Innkeeper Donna Hofmann of Parkview B&B in Reedsburg puts in another vote for can't-miss-hiking at famous Devil’s Lake State Park and often suggests it to enthusiastic guests. Of course, it has the best rock climbing this side of the Rocky Mountains!  Continuing east, we come to Pedal'rs Inn, Wales in the Lake Country/ Kettle Moraine area. Minutes away is Lapham Peak State Park part of the Ice Age Trail. The Ice Age Trail connects with the Glacial Drumlin Trail that will bring you right to the doorstep of Pedal'rs Inn. Further to the south is the Southern Kettle Moraine with more trails to enjoy the landforms created by during the Ice Age.  Last but not certainly not least, Artesian House in Bayfield is excited to have guests experience the brand new park called Salmo Lake Walk Trail that is just across the road from Artesian House.  The new park has a bridge, boardwalk/trail down to a Lake Superior beach for a nice stroll for after breakfast.  There is a hiking trail across Hatchery Road close to Artesian House's driveway. For the perfect marriage between hiking and seeing the timeless city of Bayfield, cross Rt. 13 to Port Superior Road and head north along the water, you will pick up the Brownstone Trail that will take you into downtown Bayfield.  Bayfield Chamber of Commerce has put together a great list of trails along Lake Superior that will definitely make for an experience worth the drive north! [caption id="attachment_1256" align="alignleft" width="442"]Glacial Drumlin Trail Glacial Drumlin Trail[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1255" align="alignright" width="461"]Kickapoo Valley Reserve Kickapoo Valley Reserve[/caption]

See Which B&Bs Garnered “Best of the Midwest”

The editors of Midwest Living have just released their annual “Best of the Midwest” issue and we offer hearty congratulations to these highly deserving member B&Bs: Where to eat in Bayfield: Rittenhouse Inn. The editors called it one of their all-time favorites with wraparound porch and luxe rooms. Where to stay in Door County: Door County Lighthouse Inn, Eagle Harbor Inn and White Gull Inn all made the list! Top kid-friendly stops in Wisconsin: Rainbow Ridge Farms B&Bin La Crosse, thanks to what the editors call a “go-ahead-and-get-dirty-attitude.” [caption id="attachment_1137" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Rainbow Ridge Farms B&B in Onalaska is very kid-friendly!! In every sense of the term![/caption]

Wisconsin B&B Getaways For Last-Minute Types

Usually leaving things to the last minute is a recipe for, well, you know the saying.  But not always, as evidenced in this list of Wisconsin B&Bs who offer last-minute getaway packages.  And by last-minute, we mean you can even call the day you want to stay. We also like the category of specials called “off season,” knowing the discounts and good values listed here might be just the permission one needs to break up this long winter with a welcome change of pace. Time to pack your overnight bag.   [caption id="attachment_1078" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Sturgeon Bay's Scofield House invites you to enjoy the quiet season in Door County ... hmm, immediate seating anyone? Their 2 night stay, Friday & Saturday, in any whirlpool room comes with an additional discount thru April 30.[/caption] [caption id="attachment_1074" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Want to be on the "A-list"? Receive weekly unpublished last minute specials at Bayfield's Old Rittenhouse Inn, available exclusively to email subscribers (sign up at rittenhouseinn.com). Then, you could be in this spacious third floor King suite, once the home's ballroom, featuring the original tongue and groove wood interior, a seating area with a double-sided fireplace, and a massive window seat with sweeping views of Bayfield, Lake Superior, and the Apostle Islands.[/caption]

Christmas Curb Appeal at Wisconsin B&Bs part 3

We're still waiting for fluffy white stuff to fill the air, and that means there's still time do your outside decorating sans snowshoes.  In the northwoods, Mother Nature eventually takes care of much of the decorating – nothing like a fresh snowfall at dusk at Pinehurst Inn (Bayfield), with warm lights glowing inside, to remind us of the beauty of the season.  At the Cobblestone B&B in Birchwood, the antique cross-country skis remind us of fun after the holidays.  These 'snowy reminders'  from a few previous seasons are just what we need to get motivated. [caption id="attachment_931" align="alignright" width="200"] Old wooden cross-country skis are a fitting tribute to the founder of the American Birkebeiner (the largest X-C race in North America) Tony Wise, who grew up in this home, now the Cobblestone Bed & Breakfast. Innkeeper Mary Lou knows how to keep the chill out with breakfast next to a crackling fire on a wintry morn.[/caption]

Wisconsin B&B Inns Cherish the Apple

[caption id="attachment_816" align="alignright" width="300"] Apple orchard at Apple Tree Lane B&B, Waupaca.[/caption] Wisconsin’s roller coaster of a spring and summer in the weather department wasn’t exactly kind to the state’s apple crop.  All the more reason to relish every juicy bite of the ruby pomme with recipes like this one for Apple Lavender Scones from the innkeepers at Pinehurst Inn in Bayfield. By the way, this recipe and many others are included in our eighth edition cookbook which will be available for purchase mid-November.  Gift-giving idea anyone! Pinehurst Apple Lavender Scones "This recipe pulls together a mix of items from our own gardens and fruit from our local Bayfield orchards. We adapted this recipe from a basic scone recipe given to us by a friend."  -Pinehurst Innkeepers Nancy & Steve Sandstrom 2 cups organic whole wheat pastry flour ¼ cup organic sugar 1 Tbsp baking powder ¼ tsp cinnamon ¼ tsp salt 2 tsp chopped lavender leaves 1/3 cup cold butter 1 cup buttermilk 1 tsp lemon juice 2 tsp lemon zest 1½ cups peeled cubed apples, or Bosc pears Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, cinnamon, salt, and lavender in a medium bowl. Using a pastry blender cut the cold butter (divided into 6-7 pieces) until the consistency is coarse and crumbly. Add the buttermilk, lemon juice, lemon zest, and cubed apples and stir with a fork until just moistened. If the mixture is too dry, you can add a drop or two of additional buttermilk. Knead the dough 5-6 times on a floured surface. Roll out to ¾-inch thickness and cut into preferred shapes. We use a greased scone pan to create consistent sizes. You can also drop the batter onto a greased cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops of the scones with egg white and sprinkle with a mixture of sugar and cinnamon. Bake 15-18 minutes, or until golden brown. Yield: 1 dozen.

Theatre in the Open

You’ve heard of theatre in the round.  How about theatre in the forest.  Or in a tent.  Or on a lakeshore.  In Spring Green, the American Players Theatre is world renowned for its classical theatre performed under the stars in an amphitheater on a hill with trees all around.  In Door County, the Peninsula Players is America’s oldest professional resident summer theater, and there’s also American Folklore Theatre with musicals that are often Wisconsin-themed, and Door Shakespeare which stages its performances in a garden.  Lake Superior’s Big Top Chautauqua, Bayfield,  has a full summer season of plays and concerts and, yes, they are performed under a big tent.  In Mineral Point, there’s Alley Stage, and in Milwaukee the Peck Pavillion on the lakeshore has lots of free events.  Get outside, take a seat, enjoy the show, and then return to the B&B of your choice, knowing our member inns are also famous for receiving rave reviews.      [caption id="attachment_722" align="aligncenter" width="175"] Mineral Point is known for its artist's community and artisan shops ... just a short stroll from Brewery Creek. As its name implies, Brewery Creek is more than an historic inn - it's a brew pub, and restaurant known for a locally sourced menu.[/caption]

A Cure for Downton Abbey Withdrawal

A Cure for Downton Abbey Withdrawal If you’re among the growing legion of fans of the PBS series “Downton Abbey” then, like us, you’re already in withdrawal knowing Season 3 won’t premiere until 2013.  Until then, may we kindly suggest you plan to holiday at one of these Wisconsin B&Bs known for their opulence and luxury as a way to ease your pain and channel the Crawleys.  We believe the Dowager Countess of Grantham herself would approve.  In alphabetical order by city, we unveil our most Downton Abbey-esque B&Bs: Rittenhouse Inn - BayfieldWashington House – Cedarburg,  Joannes B&B – DePereAngel Inn – Green LakeWestphal Mansion Inn – HartfordMcCormick House – HaywardPhipps Inn – HudsonLivingston Inn – MadisonLauerman House Inn / M&M Victorian – MarinetteLudlow Mansion – MonroeInn at Pine Terrace – Oconomowoc The Roth House – Soldiers GroveStrawberry Lace Inn – SpartaDreams of Yesteryear – Stevens PointScofield House – Sturgeon Bay, Apple Tree Lane B&B – WaupacaIsadora’s B&B – West Bend. [caption id="attachment_434" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Originally separated by pocket doors, the Ladies' Parlor and the Men's Parlor now permit co-ed relaxing...scandalous in Victorian times! Dreams of Yesteryear - Stevens Point welcomes you to yesteryear with today's comforts."]Victorian, Downton Abbey, antiques, today's comforts, Stevens Point[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_435" align="aligncenter" width="204" caption="Pass through the portieres and step back in time at the "high Victorian" Scofield House in Sturgeon Bay of Door County. Hint: you'll find TV's hidden in the armoires, plus other comforts of today."]Door County, Sturgeon Bay, dining, Victorian[/caption]

Newly Built B&Bs Do Exist in Wisconsin

There’s a long-standing myth the B&B industry can’t seem to shake and it’s that all inns are Victorian with antiques and doilies everywhere.  It’s just not so.  Styles of architecture among B&Bs in Wisconsin run from historic mansions to lakeside cabins to ultra-contemporary new builds.  Let’s focus on that last category for a moment. There are B&B owners who have created their inns literally from the ground up, favoring a modern style.  Great examples of that include the Artesian House B&B built on a 25-acre wooded plot in Bayfield.  The guest rooms feature a creative mix of contemporary and eclectic. The Inn at Wawanissee Point in Baraboo is a luxurious villa-style B&B with incredible views to the Lake Wisconsin valley. Moondance B&B in Fond du Lac is furnished in a decidedly artistic style with a master suite that also includes a large fully-equipped kitchen, dining room and living room.   Then there are inns whose historic exterior belies their modern interiors.  Examples include Lauerman House Inn - Marinette, Tritsch House - Alma, and Wilson Schoolhouse Inn - LaCrosse.  If you like modern, don’t rule out a B&B.   [caption id="attachment_381" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="The Lauerman House in Marinette is a circa 1910 Colonial Revival mansion. The 7 spacious rooms are unabashedly contemporary - and the dining is gourmet."]contemporary B&B decor, historic bed and breakfast, modern, gourmet dining[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_382" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Try your hand at a game of pool on the 8-foot Olhaussen pool table at the Tritsch HouseB&B in Alma. You'll find a nice mix of period rooms with beautiful woodwork paired with modern amenities."]pool table, B&B pool table, contemporary B&B amenities[/caption]   [caption id="attachment_383" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Go back to school ... and this time, relax in Scandinavian-modern furnishings in an historic schoolhouse that welcomes small groups. The Wilson Schoolhouse Inn, LaCrosse, pairs contemporary comforts - even a full kitchen - with the historic schoolhouse architecture."]contemporary B&B in historic school, Scandinavian-modern comfort, Wilson Schoolhouse Inn, LaCrosse[/caption]    
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