Spend Your Next Romantic Getaway at a Wisconsin B&B

Romantic Getaway at a Wisconsin Bed and BreakfastAre you looking for the perfect romantic getaway destination, where you can spend the time needed to rekindle or nurture your relationship this winter? You'll find exactly what you're looking for at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast. After all, romance is our business. It's what we do best! 

You won't find anyone that caters to romance the way we do at Wisconsin's unique collection of Bed and Breakfasts. While it's true that Wisconsin certainly has established its reputation as being a destination for adventurers and fun-loving craft beer aficionados, there are so many more wonderful things about our incredible state to enjoy. Book a romantic getaway with us this winter, and enjoy all we have to offer at the finest Bed and Breakfasts in all of Wisconsin.

10 Reasons for a Romantic Getaway in Wisconsin

There is no doubt; our collection of Inns is unbeatable when it comes to booking a romantic getaway.  There is a reason people choose our Bed and Breakfasts time and time again for their memory-filled vacations. You'll notice what sets us apart from the first moment you arrive at your chosen destination.  You'll be welcomed with a warm, welcoming atmosphere that captures the very essence of romance.  From there, what you do on your romantic getaway is up to you, but our friendly and knowledgeable Innkeepers will certainly be there to guide you along your journey however needed. 

Wherever it is you choose to spend your time, here are 10 great reasons to make sure a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast is part of your plan:

  1. Many of our Bed and Breakfast are housed in romantic, beautifully restored historic homes. This lends an undeniable character and charm to your accommodations and is part of what makes our accommodations so unique.
  2. Our focus is on the hospitality you experience while here. Our incredible hospitality extends into every detail of your stay will be taken care of without you even having to ask.
  3. Do you love modern amenities and luxury?  You won't have to sacrifice!  Many of our Inns offer these same wonderful amenities and oftentimes offer even more. 
  4. Start off each and every morning of your stay with a sensational, made-from-scratch breakfast. Most of our innkeepers consider themselves to be foodies, and they take immense pride in crafting a delicious start to your day.  Sometimes, you can even arrange to have breakfast served to you in the privacy of your own guest room!
  5. Are you looking for someplace special to spend an evening?  Perhaps you want to share a round of cocktails, or enjoy an intimate dinner for two with a little live music and entertainment? Luckily for you, our Innkeepers are local experts in their area and are more than willing to guide you.
  6. If you want to stay near the most popular attractions in Wisconsin, as well as some of the state's top hidden treasures, then come stay at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast!  The location certainly matters when it comes to planning the ultimate romantic getaway. 
  7. If you don't want to go outside, there's nothing wrong with that.  Enjoy a romantic getaway inside, curled up in the cozy accommodations of our Inns.
  8. Take advantage of our member's packages and special indulgences. They often offer those perfect last touches that will make your romantic stay just that much more special. 
  9. Take the time to pamper yourself a little bit, and add some indulgent touches to your stay. A number of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts offer these sorts of services, either or site, or partnered with local businesses. 
  10. Relax during your stay, knowing that our member Inns are all licensed, inspected and insured. We know how important this is, and it's not something you'll find with all short-term rental properties like Airbnb. 

Romantic Getaway at a Wisconsin Bed and BreakfatFind the Most Romantic Lodging in Wisconsin

Whether you see a lot of Wisconsin or just a little bit of it while you're here, we know time spent at any of our Bed and Breakfasts will be some of the most romantic times you've ever spent away from home. You'll usually find the best deals and specials directly on a given properties website, so as you make plans for your next romantic getaway in Wisconsin, definitely make sure you book direct with the property you're interested in. 

Wisconsin is calling, and you must go. Come visit us this winter, and let us show you how to sweep your loved one off their feet. Book your stay at one of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts today!

Plan Your Next Girlfriend Getaway to a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast

Girlfriend Getaway at a Wisconsin Bed and BreakfastThis summer, it's time to gather up all of those friends and family from near and far to plan the perfect girlfriend getaway. Imagine a weekend together filled with pampering, togetherness, and of course plenty of fun. That's what girlfriend getaways are all about, and Wisconsin's finest Bed and Breakfasts can help.

Whether you're looking for an itinerary packed with plenty of fun, or something a little more laid back where the focus is simply on being together, you'll find it in Wisconsin. Our member Bed and Breakfasts are located all over the state, and are often rated as some of the best places to stay in Wisconsin.

Whatever it is you choose to do, a girlfriend getaway is bound to help you and your closest friends create memories that will last a lifetime. Start your search by browsing through our member Inns. It's time to quit dreaming about a vacation, and time to just make it happen. Book your girlfriend getaway to Wisconsin today!

The Best Girlfriend Getaway is in Wisconsin

In a state as diverse and beautiful as Wisconsin, it's easy to plan a girlfriend getaway that will make every member of your group happy. We recommend you spend your girlfriend getaway off the beaten path, in the smaller, vibrant communities of Wisconsin. Here are a few ways to do exactly that:

Sip & Swirl Your Way around Wisconsin

There is no shortage of good wineries and breweries in Wisconsin. You can spend days traveling around the state sipping and tasting your way through many of them. While the titan's of Wisconsin's brew scene, Pabst and Miller are still around, the brewing scene in Wisconsin has seen tremendous growth at the local level. In most cities, you can now find at least one microbrewery. Visiting these microbreweries and getting to know their towns and regions is an excellent way to experience the best of Wisconsin. We wrote a recent blog about some of the top breweries to visit in Wisconsin.

The state's wineries are just as exciting. Visiting a few of these gems during an afternoon or two is the perfect compliment to a girlfriend getaway. There are over 100 wineries, but some of the lesser-known and worthwhile stops include Wollersheim Winery & Distillery in Prairie du Sac, Belle Vinez Winery in Hudson, Chateau St. Croix Winery in St. Croix Falls, Cambridge Winery, DC Estate Winery in Beloit, Staller Estate Winery in Delavan, and Lewis Station Winery, the state's first craft winery, located in Lake Mills. 

Get Outside and Be Adventurous

Whatever part of the state you find yourself in, you'll find an incredible range of outdoor activities to enjoy. For example, try the Waupaca and Chain O'Lakes area of central Wisconsin. It's breathtakingly beautiful and fit for the most adventurous of groups. Maybe you want to try your hand at some fun water activities, such as Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUPing)? You can even throw a little yoga in for fun! Or maybe you and your girlfriends want to rent a pontoon boat and head out on the lakes for the day? Cool off and take a swim at one of the sandbars along the way. 

SUPing in Waupaca isn't the only way to enjoy the water in Wisconsin, either. The Northwestern part of the state is known for its rugged shoreline along Lake Superior, while the Northeast boasts nearly 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan. Both areas are ripe with rivers and lakes to explore, too. But for a tranquil trip down some of the most scenic stretches of river in the state, you can't beat staying in the Driftless Region in the southwestern part of the state. Here, you'll find the gently meandering waters of the Kickapoo River near Ontario, to name but one. At night, the quiet countryside of the Driftless region is perfect for stargazing and enjoying time together around a bonfire. These experiences and more can be had at select Bed and Breakfasts in Wisconsin. 

Get Adventurous on a girlfriend getaway to WisconsinAnother hidden gem of Wisconsin is the ruggedly beautiful town of Wausau. You can get adventurous at their acclaimed Whitewater Park, take to the hills of Rib Mountain State Park, or spend some time browsing their incredible museums in downtown, including the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum. Other great places to hike or take nature walks around the state include Wildcat Mountain State Park near Ontario, Devils Lake State Park near Baraboo, Governor Dodge State Park just outside of Madison, the northern unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest near West Bend, and Horicon Marsh near Horicon.

If biking is more your speed, head over to the Elroy-Sparta Trail near Sparta. It is a former railway that turned to a multi-use trail in the beautiful Driftless Area. Other great cycling trails include the La Crosse River State Trail, the Great River State Trail near La Crosse, and the Sugar River State Trail in Southern Wisconsin near New Glarus.

Don't Forget to add in some Shopping

We'd be remiss not to mention some of the top towns for shopping in Wisconsin. When you and your girlfriends are ready to do a little shopping, head to the Fox Cities. This collection of small towns is known as "Wisconsin's Shopping Place," and for good reason. The Fox Cities, which includes cities like Appleton, is in the northeastern part of the state.  It is made up of about 20 different small communities, each offering up a different mix of shopping. From large malls to quaint boutiques, you and your best girlfriends will have a wonderful time getting to know each of these wonderful Wisconsin communities. For other great shopping ideas, refer to Travel Wisconsin's guide to small town shopping around the state. 

Pamper Yourself at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast

There are a number of spas around the state who put wellness at the forefront of everything they do. But many Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts make wellness a central part of their experience, too.  That's why we're among the best places to stay in Wisconsin! These Inns and the services they offer make getting pampered while on vacation even easier. Several Inns offer in-room massages and services, or they partner with local businesses or can refer you to local spas. Some even offer full wellness retreats and services so your girlfriend getaway can be focused exactly where it should be; on you and your friendships. 

Whether the focus of your girlfriend getaway is deep relaxation, wine and conversation, or finding the adventure of a lifetime, the state of Wisconsin and our member Bed and Breakfasts are here to help. Just as each region in the state has its own charms, so to do each of our lodging properties. A vacation in Wisconsin can be as interesting and unique as your group of girlfriends, and our innkeepers are here to help! Don't wait; book your girlfriend getaway to Wisconsin today!

Wisconsin Inns With An Extra Romantic Touch

Valentines Day is quickly approaching, do you know what you are giving to that someone special in your life? Consider the gift of an experience! There is nothing more special than time spent together ~ A romantic night or two at a B&B! Don't forget to look at the B&B's specials, packages, and add-ons for that extra special touch.

 

Dreams of Yesteryear

 
Come stay in the kind of place Victorian dreams are made of! This beautiful bed and breakfast treats guests to the best of modern day luxury, while surrounded by the charms of yesteryear.
 
 
sheer memories-bb
 
 
Overlook the beautiful valley of the Lower Wisconsin River when you stay at Sheer Memories. Here, the innkeeper loves to create a unique experience for that special occasion.
 
 
red-forest-bb
 
 
Enter into their world of sparkling stained glass, family heirlooms, private and comfortable guestrooms, a cozy fireplace to curl up to, and home-cooked goodness in every breakfast. Perfect for a cozy Valentine getaway!
 
 
Albany House
 
 
Three acres of grounds, art, antiques, and a distinctive decorating style make this popular couples' getaway a perennial favorite of the discerning traveler. The small-town ambiance of the area is just right for getting away from it all.

 

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How to Create Some Valentine's Romance at the B&B

  Valentine's Day offers us a chance to reconnect with that special someone in our life.  A day set aside for Valentine's Romance is just what we all need at this time of the year.  It seems as if we've just made it through the hustle and bustle of the holidays, rushing here and there, trying to spend time with as many family members and friends as possible.  Thank goodness Valentine's Day offers us a chance to slow down, an opportunity to spend some much needed time with the one we love the most.  Life gets so busy with the day-to-day chores of getting things done, it's difficult to set the time aside to build and strengthen those relationships that are most important.  The question is, what to do to make the time special, get to a place where you can really have a quiet conversation just the two of you; time to reconnect.  No interruptions from the kids, no text messages on your phone, and no Social Media drama to interfere with your Valentine's Romance getaway. The first place to start is with a reservation at one of the premier WBBA member Bed & Breakfasts.  Depending on your schedule, you can take some time to make a trip to your favorite spot, or, explore a new area of Wisconsin to create some memories for the two of you. Memories are what bind us together, they are what creates the "Us" and the "We".   Many of the Inns are offering a Valentine's special or package, if not, chances are they offer a Romance Package.  No two inns offer the same package, but chances are flowers, wine and chocolates are involved, and who wouldn't want to start the evening out like that? Can you play hooky for the day?  Grab your sweetheart, jump in the car and escape the demands of this week's to-do list, even if it's just for one day.  Put those cell phones on do-not-disturb (WBBA inns offer wi-fi for those who need to stay "connected") and head for the hills, or maybe just the other side of town, depending on where your favorite B&B is located!  This will be one of the best spent vacation days you have ever taken! So, after you check-in to the B&B, the innkeeper gets you all settled, you've devoured the wine & chocolates, what to do next? There are plenty of options.  The obvious is a romantic dinner for two, but be sure to plan ahead for this one, you will need reservations, no matter where you are. A great Wisconsin Supper Club is an iconic way to create the Valentine's Romance you're looking for. If you're not sure what the best restaurant is in the area, consult your innkeeper, he or she will have plenty of information about just the type of dining you're looking for. If you don't want to deal with having dinner in a crowded restaurant, how about a movie? You could head to the local theater and catch one of the recently released movies on the big screen, or, consider bringing you're favorite romantic comedy on video to the B&B.  Check with the innkeeper to make sure they have a DVD/video player in the room.  Some Inn's have smart TV's so you can connect to your favorite streaming channel.  If the Inn doesn't have that technology, check out this article on how to connect a laptop to a television.  How often do we get to sit down with our most special loved one and watch a movie uninterrupted?  Another Valentines Romance memory created. After dinner or the movie, (or both), you've returned to the B&B, exhausted from the busy day, the wonderful meal and the delicious bottle of wine.  Now it's time to unwind and relax.   [caption id="attachment_1195" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Bath Sommelier - Honeybee Inn, Horicon.[/caption]   There are so many of the WBBA member Inns that have fireplaces whirlpool tubs, jacuzzi tubs, soaking tubs, whatever you like to call it, it's a finishing touch for a Valentines Romance memory that shouldn't be missed. Soaking in the tub then snuggling by the fire, the perfect way to ignite those smoldering passions. We can't talk about a Valentine's Romance getaway at a WI B&B without mentioning breakfast.  So many of the WBBA innkeepers have a passion for cooking.  Breakfast in your room could be an option for you, check with your innkeeper to find out availability and any additional charges.  Breakfast in your room is always tempting, but sometimes it's worth it to venture out of your room and experience breakfast in the dining room.  First of all, there's not telling who you'll meet.     Wisconsin B&B's get plenty of international travelers.  It's possibly you could have breakfast with someone from Norway, Australia, or Reunion Island.  One glance at the guest book when you check in and you will notice entries from folks across the globe.  No matter where you have breakfast, either in your room or with the other guests in the dining room, the innkeeper is sure to serve up something special, just for you. Don't be afraid to seize the opportunity to create a Valentine's Romance getaway for just the two of you.  The Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast Association members can offer a wonderful home base for you to reconnect with your sweetheart.  Be sure to book your room today and Seek the unique!   WBBA Seek the Unique      

Explore the Door

[caption id="attachment_1910" align="aligncenter" width="325"] Cana Island Lighthouse[/caption] It’s a county, a peninsula, and one of the state’s most popular tourism spots. If you’ve never been to Door County, then let’s rectify that right now. Along with sand dunes, sailing, arts and culture, it’s also home to more B&Bs than any other county in Wisconsin. Think of it as the Cape Cod of the Midwest.

The Door County peninsula is a summer playground like no other in the state. It’s known for its 300 miles of shoreline along Lake Michigan and Green Bay, kayaking in the shadows of the bluffs, thousands of acres of cherry and apple orchards, wineries, a handful of state parks, art galleries, and 11 historic lighthouses. In other words, it’s magical. Adding to the magic are 10 B&Bs dotting the county. Let’s start at the county line and work our way up the peninsula. In Sturgeon Bay:

  1. Scofield House is a 1902 Victorian with six guestrooms. Reserve the entire third story which has been transformed into a single luxurious suite. [caption id="attachment_1912" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Schofield House[/caption]
  2. White Lace Inn has 18 guestrooms and nearly all have their own fireplace. The inn staff has hosted more than 1,300 weddings, so you know it’s for romantics at heart. [caption id="attachment_1913" align="aligncenter" width="450"] White Lace Inn[/caption]
  3. Inn at Cedar Crossing is an 1881 historic building in the city’s downtown historic district. Step outside to shops, galleries and museums. [caption id="attachment_1914" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Inn at Cedar Crossing[/caption]
  4. Garden Gate B&B is just two blocks from downtown, where you’ll find the Maritime Museum, Third Avenue Playhouse, bistros and boutiques. [caption id="attachment_1915" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Garden Gate B & B[/caption]

In Bailey’s Harbor:

  1. Inn at Windmill Farm is a restored turn-of-the-century Dutch farmhouse in a pastoral setting with windmill and orchard. There’s even an art gallery and antique shop right on the property. [caption id="attachment_1917" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Inn at Windmill Farm[/caption]
  2. Blacksmith Inn on the Shore is on the Lake Michigan side of the peninsula, making it the ideal setting to unwind to the sound of the seagulls or stay active with a kayak adventure. [caption id="attachment_1918" align="aligncenter" width="559"] Blacksmith Inn[/caption]

In Egg Harbor:

  1. Bay Point Inn boasts some spectacular water views that go very nicely with the European vacation villa feel of the place. [caption id="attachment_1919" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Bay Point Inn[/caption]

In Fish Creek:

  1. White Gull Inn is the peninsula’s oldest operating inn and hosts a traditional fish boil, complete with cherry pie for dessert. [caption id="attachment_1920" align="aligncenter" width="450"] White Gull Inn[/caption]
  2. Juniper Inn, located on a high bluff overlooking a juniper meadow, is an easy bike ride from Peninsula State Park. [caption id="attachment_1921" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Juniper Inn[/caption]

In Ephraim:

  1. Eagle Harbor Inn is laden with amenities, including an indoor current pool, sauna, and fitness room, to say nothing of the gourmet breakfast served garden-side plus free beach chairs to plop down on Ephraim Beach. [caption id="attachment_1922" align="aligncenter" width="450"] Eagle Harbor Inn[/caption]

While in Door County this summer: Make a point to visit The Ridges Sanctuary in Bailey’s Harbor, celebrating 80 years of preserving some of the peninsula’s most ecologically diverse lands. Then whet your whistle at Shipwrecked Brew Pub in Egg Harbor – at 20 years, it is Door County’s oldest microbrewery.  The Door County peninsula allows you to watch a sunrise and a sunset over the water without leaving the county.  There is such a variety of things to do and see, there are thousands of acres of orchards, you can explore art galleries, pick fresh cherries, sip on local wines and brews, rent a canoe or kayak to paddle along the bluffs, hike the five state parks or tour 11 lighthouses.  No matter what you’re looking to get out of your vacation, our innkeepers will help you to seek that unique experience in Door County. As we like to remind all of our readers, all member inns of the WBBA are licensed, inspected and insured, so, rest assured, you will get a tranquil night's sleep, WBBA Seek the Unique

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Biking is the new Golf - You Heard it from Wisconsin B&Bs

[caption id="attachment_1675" align="alignright" width="300"]Parkview B&B in Reedsburg Parkview B&B in Reedsburg[/caption] Are you more interested in wheeling along than walking along? You're not alone. Cycling is now being referred to as the new golf. Here in Wisconsin we have a great rails-to-trails bike system, 117 designated Rustic Roads spanning 669 miles through 59 counties,  plus lots of opportunities to log miles in state and county parks.  Wisconsin has some pretty awesome city cycling too. Take Madison, for example. They have a bike-share program, and commuter bike trails, with several connecting to excellent state trails, for those yearning for a longer-distance ride.  Of course, golf is pretty spectacular here too. The U.S. Open is coming to Wisconsin next year and that's after the state hosted the PGA last year.  We're so glad spring is here and we have a hunch we're not alone. Wisconsin is one of the top bicycling destinations in the U.S. and we're not making that up. Just ask the League of American Bicyclists - they are the ones doing the rankings. Old railroad beds converted to bike trails, including the famous Elroy-Sparta trail, have helped put Wisconsin on the national bike map in a big way. [caption id="attachment_1672" align="alignleft" width="300"]Grapevine Log Cabins in Sparta Grapevine Log Cabins in Sparta[/caption]     If you'd like to map out an extended weekend itinerary that allows you to bike during the day and pull in to B&Bs at dusk, consider one of your stops at Fountain Chateau B&B in Hustler.   The beautiful Omaha Bike Trail (originally the Omaha Railroad), connects right next door, where you can  bike all the way to the Elroy-Sparta Trail and the 400 State Park Trail. The Grapevine Log Cabins is almost within earshot of the Elroy-Sparta bike trail, a short 1 ½ miles, where it meets the La Crosse River Trail, and Justin Trails Resort tells their guests to make sure they don't miss the trail's 875' tunnel - it's awesome. [caption id="attachment_1674" align="alignright" width="300"]Justin Trails Resort in Sparta Justin Trails Resort in Sparta[/caption]             [caption id="attachment_1679" align="alignleft" width="300"]Pleasant View B&B in Chippewa Falls Pleasant View B&B in Chippewa Falls[/caption] Folks who visit Pleasant View B&B can access the Old Abe Bike Trail less than 1/2 mile away, one of 12 paved bike trails in Wisconsin, Another rail trail, Old Abe follows the Chippewa River from Chippewa Falls to Cornell, connecting Lake Wissota and Brunet Island state parks. A future addition will connect the trail with the Chippewa and Red Cedar state trails, creating a network of more than 70 miles of connected trails in the Chippewa Valley. Innkeepers who bike themselves include Heidi and Tom at the Buckingham Inn in Madison, so you'd be in great company at their B&B.  The inn provides free passes for Madison's city bike-share program for a quick ride to restaurants, the Capitol, and other Madison area attractions.   [caption id="attachment_1676" align="alignright" width="300"]Pedal'rs Inn B&B Pedal'rs Inn B&B[/caption]   We couldn't talk bicycling without mentioning the Pedal'rs Inn B&B in Wales, a bicycling inspired inn, where you can pick up the scenic Glacial Drumlin State Trail. Located just a short drive north of Milwaukee, is Hidden Serenity B&B in West Bend and the Eisenbahn, a "rails to trails" project, where you get the beauty of biking in the Kettle Moraine without the steep hills.  Many B&Bs offer relaxing massages at their inns, so inquire, just in case you need to pamper yourself after your day's ride. [caption id="attachment_1678" align="alignnone" width="300"]Hidden Serenity B&B Hidden Serenity B&B[/caption] We don't want to leave out the golfers, so here's a fun fact: There are three Hurdzan Fry-designed courses in Wisconsin and they're all public courses: Erin Hills, near Hartford, site of the 2017 U.S. Open, is just 6 miles from the Westphal Mansion Inn B&B, a restored 1913 mansion. [caption id="attachment_1669" align="alignright" width="250"]Bowman's Oak Hill B&B in Wis Dells Bowman's Oak Hill B&B in Wis Dells[/caption] Get in a few rounds before the pros descend next year; Wild Rock, the quarry course in Wisconsin Dells, chiseled around and through a former quarry, is for the golfer who embraces a challenge.  After a day on the course relax in this cottage nestled near the edge of the woods at Bowman's Oak Hill B&B; or Troy Burne, in Hudson, just 30 minutes from St. Paul and only 15 minutes from the premier Queen Anne Victorian Phipps Inn.  For more B&B options near these courses, just search by city on our website.   [caption id="attachment_1677" align="alignnone" width="280"]Phipps Inn in Hudson Phipps Inn in Hudson[/caption]

Innkeepers Share the Secret of Making the Perfect Scone

A scone recipe that's perfection every time? We considered that a culinary myth until we heard from Eagle Centre House B&B. The innkeepers there swear this recipe for basic scones is foolproof. Don't be fearful of making scones, this recipe will get you hooked.  As for what to spread on top of a scone, we like lemon curd, clotted cream, honey butter or homemade jam. We're traditionalists that way.  

Basic Scone Recipe

The following recipe makes approximately 12 scones  

2 cups all purpose flour 1 tbsp. baking powder 1/2 tsp. salt 5 tbsp. (1/3 cup) sweet butter 1/4 cup vegetable shortening 1/3 cup milk

  Place the baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 450 degrees F.  Sift the measured flour twice with the baking powder and salt.  When I was a young girl learning to cook my mother had a flour sifter for this task, it was a contraption that reminded me of a coffee can, had a mesh bottom, and a handle that was squeezed to turn a blade near the bottom to move the flour around and push it through the sieve.  I don't happen to have a handy tool like that, so I just used a fine mesh metal strainer I use for washing and draining fruits and vegetables, and held that over a bowl and shook the strainer to get the flour to go through.Sifting Flour  If you would like to add some variety to this basic scone recipe this is the point where you could add some orange zest and dried cranberries, or lemon zest with dried blueberries.  Chopped nuts also add another layer of texture and flavor.  Dice the fats into the dry ingredients, then lightly rub in with cool fingertips or a pastry blender until completely blended.  The butter and shortening will look like small peas or oatmeal when it is fully incorporated with the flour.  Make a well in the center and stir in the milk.  Lightly mix with a fork until the ingredients form a soft dough.  Turn out onto a floured board and knead very lightly fEagle Center House Sconesor about 1/2 minute to a loose, smooth dough.  The trick to making a nice light scone is to handle the dough as little as possible, yet it is important to get all of the flour incorporated with the butter and shortening.  Roll out with a rolling pin or pat with the hand to approximately 3/4 inch thick.  Stamp out with a 2 inch cutter or cut into triangles with a sharp knife, I also like to use a pizza cutter.  Lightly knead together any trimmings and roll and stamp out again.  Lift with a spatula onto the hot baking sheet, placing 1 inch apart.  Brush only the tops with lightly beaten egg or milk.  Bake toward the top of the oven for approximately 10 minutes, or until well risen and golden brown.  Lift onto a wire rack with the spatula to cool.  If this is your first attempt at baking scones you may feel frustrated with the dough making process, but trust me, persevere and you will be thrilled at the results. Even if your scones don't look like they are ready for a photo shoot in the culinary magazine, they will taste light, and buttery and, quite frankly, fantastic!

Seek the Unique - Wisconsin B&B's with a Theme

  For those who seek a more unique experience when travelling a Wisconsin Bed & Breakfast will be sure to fit the bill. We all know Wisconsin’s Bed and Breakfasts are well known for their personalized service and scrumptious breakfast. But did you know innkeepers are knowledgeable on the local activities and history of their community? The innkeeper will be able to fill you in on the local lore and legends of the area and provide stories that will inform and inspire you. When is a B&B more than just a bed and a breakfast? When it's a microbrewery, a lighthouse, a celebrity hangout, a farm, a golf course or an art studio. Themed B&Bs are big on talk-value with your buddies and huge on enjoyment for you. Take the Inn at Windmill Farm in Door County, with its studio and gallery where one of the hosts, Ed, leads watercolor classes. He has been an artist for over 35 years and teaches at the Kansas City Art Institute Ed’s work can be seen at Windmill Farm in the Morning Mist Studio/Gallery in the historic barn. Your other host, Frank, has a great background in fine antiques and has great pieces for sale at Lupine Antiques at Windmill Farm in the historic barn.  In addition, he brings to the Inn an extensive knowledge of landscape design. The Silver Star B&B Inn near Spring Green has rooms themed to famous photographers such as Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Steichen, John Szarkowski, Monor White, and Julia Margaret Cameron. The photographers honored had a significant impact on the industry, contributing to the development of photography as an artistic medium. Visitors will find original fine art and photography displayed throughout the inn, reflecting the passion of the owner. The Silver Star B&B Inn is also located less than 10 miles from Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin and the House on the Rock. There's Brewery Creek Inn in Mineral Point with its own on-site craft brewery. A three story lime stone building on Commerce Street, there are five rooms located above the Brewpub Restaurant.  Two on the second floor and three on the third.  The Brewery Creek Brewpub is an intimate space with exposed stone walls, hand hewn timbers and beams, supporting posts and a beautiful bar. The BrewPub is closed by 10:00 pm, which guarantees quiet for the guests lodging in the rooms above. They brew all of their own beer in their own brewery.  Jeff focuses on European style ales, both modern and antique.     Door County Lighthouse Inn is just that, an inn with architecture that mimics the storied lighthouses of the region. Each room is tastefully decorated with a nautical theme which reflects the rich maritime and navigational history of the area. Each of these lighthouses are located a short distance from the Inn and are great places to explore. Door County’s lighthouses, many of which were built in the 1800s, have saved countless lives as they guided ships to safety. Today, they stir hearts as symbols of strength and protection.       Lake Orchard Farm Retreat in Sheboygan is a working farm but it also has a golf course and clubhouse.  Located near Sheboygan, Wisconsin, our operating farm has rolling fields, natural woods, fruit orchards and a Lake Michigan view. If that isn’t enough to entice you to visit, they have a 9-hole golf course with a clubhouse they provide for guests to use at no additional charge.  When the weather isn’t nice enough to play outdoors, they have a lounge area with a pool table where guests can gather and spend time.   The The Livingston Inn in Madison is the place where prominent filmmakers stay during the annual Wisconsin Film Festival in April and the innkeepers have the inside track on tickets for their guests. The Wisconsin Film Festival is presented by the UW-Madison Arts Institute in association with the Department of Communication Arts. Founded in 1999, the Festival presents an average of 150 film screenings over 8 days every spring, making it the largest university-produced film festival in the nation. So you could say the overarching theme here is to try something different the next time you travel.

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]    

Best Farmers Markets in Wisconsin and the B&Bs That Are Nearby

Seems every farmers' market in Wisconsin has a personality all its own. Which makes a Saturday morning stroll through tents filled with juicy fruit, fresh-from-the-field veggies, luscious baked goods, honey, even eye-popping bouquets of flowers a nice addition to your B&B itinerary. Bet you'll even find some garden art or homemade crafts. You may be surprised to learn that the largest true farmers' market in the country is in Madison, Wisconsin. If you have your B&B getaway on the calendar for this fall, you may want to cross-reference the nearest farmers' markets by logging on to SavorWisconsin.com.

The March of Fall Color in Wisconsin is On

Sunny days, cool nights - September is delivering perfect conditions for fall color, starting in the northwoods and marching south.  As you plan your Wisconsin B&B getaway, you might want to log on to TravelWisconsin.com for up-to-the-minute fall color reports; you can even request the report be delivered to your e-mail.  The Department of Tourism has dozens of spotters around the state, so it’s a great little tool.  On your drive, maybe set aside time for a little detour to enjoy a Wisconsin Rustic Road.  Lest you think “rustic roads” is a clever title for unimproved roads, think again. These roads, with their terrific natural features, offer hikers, bikers, and motorists a less-traveled escape into some of the finest scenery the Midwest has to offer. There are more than 500 designated miles of Rustic Roads in 54 counties of the state, many with B&Bs close-by.

Taking B&B Myth Busting into Our Own Hands

And now, a word from our innkeepers on the five most common myths in the B&B world.  They want you to know: A) You will not have to share a bathroom. Added bonus - many inns have spa-quality bathrooms. B) A B&B does not have to be historic to be licensed by us.  There are contemporary properties as equally B&B-worthy as historic mansions. C) You do not have to eat breakfast with strangers.  Interact as much or as little as you like - simply communicate your preference when you make your reservation. D) There is no curfew. Some inns have separate guest entrances, so stay out as late as you like. E) Innkeeping is not a hobby; it is a career and a passion. Remember, our innkeepers like to be asked questions, so no need to be in the dark or under a cloud of misperception when it comes to your B&B getaway.
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