Travel studies are showing us that, in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, travelers tend to prefer staycations and other destinations close to home for this summer.  Wisconsinites are pretty lucky, then, as there are so many wonderful places to explore right here in our own back yard. From Great Wisconsin bike trails and plenty of hiking to canoeing, kayaking, and exploring Wisconsin's majestic state parks, there's definitely no shortage of fun things to do in Wisconsin this summer. 

If you're looking for the best places to stay in Wisconsin, turn to our incredible and unique collection of Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts.  As traditionally small properties, you can rest assured knowing each of them is licensed, inspected, and insured.  With unmatched standards for cleanliness and professional innkeepers dedicated to hospitality and service, choosing a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast is truly choosing The Safer Way to Stay. 

As you start to plan your travel around the state of Wisconsin this summer, look to our collection of Inns for your perfect home away from home.  You won't be disappointed. Browse our incredible collection of Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts today!

Wisconsin Bike Trails you Really Must Ride This Summer

There are a number of ways to enjoy Wisconsin, but one of our favorite activities that can be enjoyed virtually anywhere in the state is biking.  Whether you're an avid cyclist training for an event and need to log some miles on your vacation, or whether you just enjoy leisurely rides in the countryside, there are plenty of delightful Wisconsin bike trails to explore around the state. What's better, is that many of these incredible trails wind their way through some of the most scenic parts of the state, giving you a true appreciation for just how pretty the state of Wisconsin is.

In fact, Wisconsin is one of the best states in the nation for biking, thanks in large part to the nation's Rails-to-Trails Conservancy program. There are 41 state-level Wisconsin bike trails, and most of them are rail-trails.  Altogether, there are more than 90 Wisconsin bike trails stretching across the state - and truly probably many more we don't even know about. Needless to say, you have a lot of options before you. 

Of course, there are a few big-name Wisconsin Bike Trails, like the Elroy-Sparta Trail, that we think you just shouldn't miss.  But, apart from that, there are a number of small and equally as incredible trails to enjoy. As always, your Innkeeper is your best local resource! We've gathered up 24 of our favorite Wisconsin bike trails from around the state by region, starting off with the most popular trails in the area, and highting a few others you may not have heard of.  We've also linked to the nearest Bed and Breakfasts, to make finding and choosing an adventure even easier.  Happy riding!

Southwestern Wisconsin Bike Trails

The Elroy-Sparta State Trail in Sparta, first built in 1965 and the first of the popular rails-to-trails program is one of the most popular Wisconsin bike trails, and for good reason. The trail is famous for its 3 intact rock tunnels, which are each over 140 years old. Their dark, cool interiors provide a welcome respite on a hot day, too.  Along the way, scenic views of Wisconsin's rural communities will certainly delight. 

Other great trails in southwestern Wisconsin include the following:

• The 400 State Trail near Reedsburg offers a beautiful ride through Wetlands, wildlife, sandstone bluffs, rolling croplands, and pastures. In other words, it's the best of Wisconsin on one great trail. 
• Great River State Trail offers incomparable views of the backwater areas of the Mississippi River, and also offers extraordinary opportunities for bird watching along the Mississippi Flyway. 
• La Crosse River State Trail near La Crosse serves as a great connector trail to those looking to do longer rides in the area, especially if you want to tackle the Elroy Sparta Trail and the Great River State Trail. 
• Mountain bikers won't want to miss their opportunity to bike the Kickapoo Valley Reserve here. It's one of the most beautiful parts of Wisconsin's Driftless Region. 

Great places to stay near these trails include the following Inns: Justin Trails Resort in Sparta; Westby House Inn B&B in Westby; Four Gables Bed and Breakfast in La Crosse; Cream Pitcher Bed and Breakfast in Blue River; Sheer Memories' Guest Cottage in Muscoda.

Biking in Southern Wisconsin (South-Central and South-East)

The Badger State Trail starts in Madison and heads south to the Illinois border, passing farmlands, woods, rolling hills, scenic meadows, and plenty of small rural communities along the way. One of the most popular features on the trail is a 1,200-foot tunnel, unique in that it curves in the middle so you can't see the opposite end of the tunnel as you enter it. 

Other great trails in this region include the following:

• The Capital City State Trail in Madison offers a beautiful way to tour the city, and also connects up to many of the other trails mentioned here for extended trips. 
• Governor Dodge State Park is a truly beautiful park to explore. Spend a day biking among the steep hills, bluffs, and valleys, stopping along the way to enjoy a restful afternoon break at the area's waterfall and lakes. It's one of the most popular Wisconsin State Parks for a reason!
• Military Ridge State Trail near Blue Mounds is an old military trail dating back to 1855. There are several observation areas just off the trail, too, which allows you to view the wildlife and other geological features of the area.
• The Sugar River State Trail in New Glarus is part of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail and is a great place to see wildlife.  There are also a number of scenic bridges to ride over along the way. 
• Riding along the Wild Goose State Trail, near Horicon Marsh, is one of the best ways to experience the Marsh and enjoy the 250+ bird species found in this area. 

Great places to stay near these trails include the following Inns: The Buckingham Inn in Madison; Hotel Ruby Marie in Madison; The Livingston Inn in Madison; The Speckled Hen Inn in Madison; Honeybee Inn in Horicon; Silver Star B&B in Spring Green; Cameo Rose Victorian Country Inn in Belleville.

Central Wisconsin Bike Trails (and east-central)

Glacial Drumlin State Trail offers 52 miles of trails between Wisconsin's two biggest urban areas, Madison and Waukesha (just outside of Milwaukee). Don't forget to stop and take a selfie at Rock Lake Bridge near Lake Mills.  As you move out of the city, there are plenty of ponds, rivers, and marshes to enjoy, along with the variety of wildlife that calls them home. 

More Wisconsin bike trails in central Wisconsin include:

• Devil's River State Trail, near Manitowoc, is a beautiful rural trail that features two dramatic railroad trestles crossing the Devil's River and tributaries.
• Kettle Morain State Forest - Northern Unit near West Bend is an incredibly beautiful area renownded for its scenic natural beauty and home to incredible biodiversity.  
• Kohler-Andre State Park in Sheboygan explores the scenic shoreline of Lake Michigan with its majestic sand dunes, miles of stuning beach, and sparkling blue water. 

Great places to stay near these Wisconsin bike trails include the following Inns: Westport Bed and Breakfast in Manitowoc; Red Forest Bed and Breakfast in Two Rivers; Rochester Inn in Sheboygan Falls; Fargo Mansion Inn in Lake Mills; Sweet Autumn Inn in Lake Mills.

Wisconsin Bike Trails in Northeastern Wisconsin

Ahnapee State Trail, in Door County, starts in downtown Sturgeon Bay and makes its way south to the charming lakeside town of Algoma. The habitats you'll encounter here include evergreen glades, farmland, and prairies, all of which are positively brimming with wildlife and native wildflowers.

A few more Wisconsin bike trails to consider here include:

• Fox River State Trail near Green Bay follows the beautiful Fox River, an area rich with Native American history and scenic beauty. 
• Mountain-Bay State Trail, starting at Rib Mountain State Park in Wausau, is one of the longest rail-trails in Wisconsin, ending in Green Bay.
• Peninsula State Park is situated on the shores of Door County, offering exceptional biking, wildlife viewing, and other recreation in one of the most scenic parts of the state. 
• Nine Mile County Forest Recreation Area in Wausau is one of the most popular areas for hiking and biking in the Wausau area. The area also hosts a number of mountain bike races throughout the year. 

Great places to stay near these Wisconsin bike trails include the following Inns: The Scofield House in Sturgeon Bay; White Lace Inn in Sturgeon Bay; Garden Gate Bed and Breakfast in Sturgeon Bay; Stewart Inn in Wausau.

Northwestern Wisconsin Biking Trails

Gandy Dancer State Trail near St. Croix Falls is a truly breathtaking trail.  It travels north for 98 miles, even popping across the border into Minnesota for a period of time, crossing a 520-foot trestle across the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway.

Find these additional Wisconsin bike trails in northwestern Wisconsin:

• Old Abe State Trail near Chippewa Falls is a relatively flat trail, as most old rail-trails are, and winds its way through agricultural and forest land and along the beautiful Chippewa River.
• Chippewa River State Trail near Eau Claire also navigates along the Chippewa River and takes riders across a number of varied habitats, including prairies, sandstone bluffs, and wetlands.
• Madeline Island, just off the coast near Bayfield, is certainly a unique place to do some biking!  It's absolutely beautiful though and easily reached via ferry from Bayfield. It's the largest of the Apostle Islands and offers a number of scenic rural roads and Wisconsin bike trails to explore.

Great places to stay near these trails include the following Inns: Inn on Lake Wissota in Chippewa Falls; The Cobblestone Bed and Breakfast in Birchwood; Old Rittenhouse Inn in Bayfield.

The Safest & Best Places to Stay in Wisconsin

We talk a lot about how great Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts are, and it's true. There's a reason so many of them are ranked as the best places to stay in Wisconsin.  They really are a delightful alternative to big and impersonal hotel chains where your stay is often nothing but a warm (and only sometimes comfortable) bed. 

Alternatively, when you stay at one of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts, you not only have a comfortable place to stay, but we'll feed you each morning with a freshly made breakfast, we'll welcome you with big smiles and honest hospitality, and we'll go the extra mile to make sure your stay is anything but ordinary. 

Though we think our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts are always among the best places to stay in Wisconsin, we think the distinction between our collection of Inns and other lodging is something that really matters in today's environment.  In a post-pandemic world, odds are you're going to be looking for someplace that is clean and as safe as possible; that's what you'll find at our Inns.

Our Inns are small, meaning you won't be surrounded by large and unexpected crowds.  We've always been all about cleanliness and the guest experience, but this is at the forefront of what we do every day, now more so than ever. Go ahead. Seek the unique, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime on these Wisconsin bike trails this summer.  Book a room at the best places to stay in Wisconsin today!

It's true that fall is beautiful in several destinations across the country.  Big-name states like Vermont, Maine, and New Hampshire are, of course, top travel destinations each fall.  But Wisconsin, too, has earned a solid reputation for leaf-peeping, with visitors coming from all over the country to see the magical, fiery hues of autumn. For those of us in Wisconsin's hospitality industry, keeping an eye out for that draw-dropping and exquisitely beautiful moment when the leaves start to turn from their vibrant greens to varying shades of gold, pink, and amber, is definitely something to look forward to. Each fall in Wisconsin, our Innkeepers look forward to welcoming guests into their Inns and guiding them to the best places to enjoy Wisconsin fall colors. To make this fall one you won't soon forget, you need to act fast.  Use our search tool to find an Inn, and book your fall getaway today.

See Wisconsin Fall Colors in 2019

From the very moment the leaves start to change in Wisconsin, they are tracked by the Wisconsin Fall Color Report.  According to this very useful tool, the best time to see the peak of Wisconsin fall colors is the 2nd week in October.  That doesn't mean it's the only time to plan a fall getaway, though.  In general, Mother Nature's fall show starts in early September in northern Wisconsin, and gradually works its way south. Whether hiking, biking, driving, or otherwise enjoying Wisconsin, these are the best ways to see the fall colors in Wisconsin in 2019.

Scenic Fall Drives in Wisconsin

We love a good scenic drive, and during the fall months, Wisconsin certainly does not disappoint.  Here are some of the most scenic drives around the state:

• Marinette County Waterfall tour in northeastern Wisconsin is delightful during the fall. It features 14 waterfalls over its 125 miles. You can choose how many stops you want to make as you go.
• In northwestern Wisconsin near the Hayward Lakes Area, there are 6 self-guided scenic drives to take. Each of them ranges from 45 - 70 miles, and will take you through some of the most popular areas for Wisconsin fall colors.
• Drive along the Upper Mississippi River valley along the Great River Road, and enjoy the dramatic colors of fall set against the sharply rising sandstone bluffs.
• The fall colors are beautiful on the Bayfield Peninsula, where you'll find the Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway.
• Take the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive through both the north and south units of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.
• Drive along Wisconsin's Door County, a simply spectacular place to visit each fall.
• Take a drive through Wisconsin's scenic Driftless Area, on the Baraboo Hills Scenic Drive.

Other Ways to Enjoy a Fall Getaway in Wisconsin

• Ride the chairlift to the top of Granite Peak Ski Area in Wausau, and take in the fall colors in the Wisconsin River Valley below.
• Hike up to Timm's Hill near Ogema, which is the highest point in Wisconsin, or take one of these great hikes with perfect fall views, put together by Travel Wisconsin.
• Take a hike in one of Wisconsin's beautiful state parks.  Read our recent blog about the best state parks to visit in Wisconsin.
• Go apple picking at one of the area's many orchards. Travel Wisconsin has a great guide to the best orchards.
• Go wine tasting and partake in harvest events at Wisconsin wineries.  Read our recent blog on the best wineries in Wisconsin.
• Go birding at one of Wisconsin's incredible natural areas, such as Horicon Marsh.

Stay at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast

It goes without saying that one of our favorite things to do in Wisconsin is to enjoy a fall getaway at one of the state's incredible Bed and Breakfasts.  Ranging from urban and contemporary to rural and historic, Wisconsin is home to not only the finest Inns in the country but incomparable hospitality that you simply won't find anywhere else.  Our Innkeepers have incredible knowledge about their state and local areas and will be your best guide to making the most out of a fall getaway to one of our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts.  Use our search tool to find the Bed and Breakfast that matches your personality and interests, and book your fall getaway to Wisconsin today.

When you're looking to explore Wisconsin's wild, natural beauty, there are a lot of places to choose from.  Whether it's exploring the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, the Door County peninsula, the Great River Road along Wisconsin's western border, the vast miles of untouched state parks and forests all over the state, or the scenic wonders of the Driftless area, Wisconsin is home to some truly incredible scenery. One place that should be on your list of places to explore this summer is Horicon Marsh, located in south-central Wisconsin. It's one of Wisconsin's hottest birdwatching destinations and is a truly peaceful place to spend one or more days this summer. At the end of a long day in this scenic paradise, relax in the comfortable accommodations offered by one of our nearby Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts.

Horicon Marsh National Wildlife Refuge

Horicon Marsh, known as the largest freshwater cattail marsh in the country, encompasses 33,000 acres of land; perfect for a day of hiking, boating, birding, photography, fishing, and wildlife viewing.  By far, the most popular activity at Horicon Marsh is birding. This protected land is home to a broad variety of marsh birds, including ducks, geese, pelicans, herons, egrets, cormorants, and so much more.  In addition to marsh-loving birds, the surrounding woodlands provide excellent habitat for a variety of songbirds, especially during the spring and fall bird migrations. More than 300 species of birds have been found at Horicon Marsh over the years, including a healthy variety of rare and endangered bird species. Beyond birds, there is plenty of other wildlife to enjoy at Horicon Marsh. There are quite a few nocturnal species, but daytime visitors also often see white-tailed deer, muskrats, mink, and river otters in the shallow waters.

There are 5 miles of hiking trails throughout Horicon Marsh, including a 1400 ft. accessible boardwalk, which allows you to explore its features and inhabitants in more depth. The Horicon Habitat Trail is one of the most popular. Cyclists can also enjoy views of the Horicon Marsh from Wild Goose State Trail, along the western edge of the marsh. But, for a truly up-close experience, consider renting a canoe to navigate your way around the marsh. The Horicon Marsh Canoe Trail is an interpretive guide that will help you make the most of your time on the water. You can also take a guided boat tour through Horicon Marsh aboard an environmentally friendly pontoon boat. These tours operate seasonally, from May 1 - October 13, 2019. They offer a variety of tours, including a birding adventure, a sunset cruise, and a seasonal autumn sights tour in September and October. In addition to these experiences, Friends of Horicon Marsh also offers an array of exceptional events and programs, geared toward helping you make the most of your time at this incredible place. 

Plan Now for Fall Migration at Horicon Marsh

Now is a great time to plan ahead for the fall bird migration at Horicon Marsh. It's a bird lovers dream! Horicon Marsh is well-known for its flocks of Canadian Geese. In fact, each fall, the world's largest flock of Canadian Geese migrates through these very lands, with their peak numbers reaching upwards of 200,000 birds! The geese start to show up in early to mid-September, with their population peaking in mid-October. As an added bonus, fall colors also reach their peak around the same time, making for a truly beautiful and memorable getaway. Rooms book up quickly, though, so you'll want to make your plans well in advance!

When it's time to choose your lodging, consider one of our member Bed and Breakfasts in south-central Wisconsin. Our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts offer authentic, one-of-a-kind experiences, each with exceptional hospitality that will not disappoint. Find your Inn, and book your getaway today!

  Here in Wisconsin, we love all four seasons, and that includes the frosty offerings of winter. Candlelight cross-country ski events are a peaceful way to embrace the snow, while fat biking on frozen lakes produces a more adrenaline-spiking high.

As antidote to the hustle and the bustle of the season, try a candlelight cross-country ski in Wisconsin. The Department of Natural Resources maintains a master list of those events going on around the state into March: http://dnr.wi.gov/calendar/events/parks/index.asp?caudience=Candlelight.

Let’s take a quick look at January gatherings: [caption id="attachment_2184" align="alignleft" width="271"] Bowman's Oak Hill Garden Cottage Bed[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2190" align="alignright" width="300"] Country Comfort at Valley Springs Farm[/caption]                 The Jan. 6 ski, hike and snowshoe at Mirror Lake State Park near Wisconsin Dells is sure to be serene just like the setting itself. Spend the night at Bowman’s Oak Hill B&B or Valley Springs Farm B&B to continue the quiet vibe. [caption id="attachment_1621" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Getaway at the Honeybee Inn[/caption] On Jan. 20 there’s a candlelight hike at the Horicon Marsh in Horicon, a natural treasure in the state. There will be candlelit trails, a roaring bonfire, owl talks, and crafts. Reserve a suite at the Honeybee Inn B&B and be enveloped in luxury. The breakfasts are phenomenal too. [caption id="attachment_2188" align="aligncenter" width="300"] An Evening at the Stewart Inn[/caption] Then, on Jan. 27, Rib Mountain State Park in Wausau hosts a candlelight snowshoe hike. After being inspired by the natural beauty of the park, you’ll be inspired by the stunning workmanship of the Stewart Inn arts & crafts mansion. Now, if you’re into biking in the warm weather months and looking for a way to extend your season, give fat tire biking a whirl. Cruise on soft snowy terrain or take to frozen lakes for a twist on two-wheeling. [caption id="attachment_2111" align="alignright" width="284"] Fat Tire Winter Biking[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2186" align="alignleft" width="285"] Snowshoe Group with Bay Point Inn[/caption]                 In Newport State Park on the Door County peninsula, the two-mile bike trail loop provides scenery and a workout. Relax after your ride at Bay Point Inn in Egg Harbor, where the accommodations will remind you of a European vacation villa on the water. [caption id="attachment_2192" align="aligncenter" width="371"] Crystal River Inn Winter Night[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2191" align="alignright" width="291"] Winter Lights with Green Fountain Inn[/caption] [caption id="attachment_2182" align="alignleft" width="300"] Apple Tree Lane B&B Through the Snow-Covered Trees[/caption]                   The third annual Fat Tire Bike Race in Waupaca is set for January 27, coinciding with their annual Pond Hockey Classic tournament which runs all weekend. Whether a rider or spectator, there’s a room waiting for you at Crystal River Inn B&B, an 1853 farmstead set on the banks of the Crystal River that is Travel Green Wisconsin certified. Nearby inns also include Apple Tree Lane B&B, where the elegant parlor's cozy wood stove invites you to sit a spell around her warmth, and the Green Fountain Inn, with decor and furnishings reminiscent of the grandeur of the 1920s.  

Are you ready to Seek the Unique?

 

Have you noticed – on this website’s home page, “Featured Bed & Breakfasts” shows 2 ever-changing B&Bs. The 2 inns caught my eye - how different – how unique – each is! River’s Bend Inn (Mayville - near the Horicon Marsh) is a gracious English Country Manor. The equally gracious innkeeper, Jayne, has quite a history too – as a high fashion model in New York and as a regular date of John F. Kennedy. Jayne likely was told she should write a book, so she did, and it is a fun summer read:  The River’s Bend. The second featured inn, Thunder Valley Inn Resort, is one mile from WI Dells, yet a ‘world’ away – a Scandinavian world, that is! Pet friendly Wee Hus is a cozy cottage snuggled next to the Farm House. Most rooms in the Swedish House and Farm House have an extra bed or two for children … schedule a visit to the inn’s dairy farm or a hands-on bread baking session. [caption id="attachment_1492" align="alignright" width="251"] Thunder Valley Inn Resort ... dairy farm tours, Sunday Farmer's Market, Threshing Farm Suppers - a meal and entertainment with all the Ole and Lena jokes you can eat![/caption] [caption id="attachment_1491" align="alignleft" width="300"] River's Bend Inn, once a Victorian mansion with a wrap-around porch, now an English Country Manor. Guest rooms have a view of the river, thru typical English diamond-grid windows.[/caption]

There’s nothing quite as sweet as the sound of birds chirping. It’s that harbinger of spring that melts even the grumpiest soul. [caption id="attachment_1096" align="alignright" width="300"] Great bird watching opportunities await at the Horicon Marsh. Stay at the nearby Honeybee Inn B&B, Horicon.[/caption] Did you know that right from our web site you can access nearly 300 birding sites around the state plus nearby inns? Take a gander and get that spring getaway on the calendar.

[caption id="attachment_705" align="aligncenter" width="150" caption="Guests are pampered with luxurious in-room amenities such as wi-fi, fireplace, whirlpool, premuim bath products, and television at the Honeybee Inn, Horicon. Innkeeper Barb Ruka says: "Guests will peruse our extensive & up-to-date movie library, get cozy in their room for hours, catching up on the latest films that they can't fit into their busy lives at home." A relaxing end to a day of touring or cruising the Horicon Marsh, within walking distance of the inn."][/caption] We’re a member of the Professional Association of Innkeepers International (PAII for short) and each year they release a research report that provides a snapshot of what’s what in B&B travel.  Thought you might be interested in a few tidbits: The average age of the oldest part of a B&B building is 111; 35% of inns have achieved an “historical designation” by a local, state or national historic preservation organization; 72% of B&Bs are run by couples; and most inns provide internet, television, luxury bed/linens, premium branded toiletries, robes, fireplaces, magazines and jetted tubs in the guest rooms.  Here’s more from Jay Karen, PAII president and CEO, “One interesting statistic we noticed from the study is that there was a slight decrease in the offering of common-area services and amenities, and a slight increase in offering in-room services and amenities. It seems more guests are asking to enjoy services privately in their rooms, and innkeepers are happy to oblige. That’s the nice thing about B&Bs – as a guest, you can make the experience as social or as private as you like.”  Well said!