2 River Road Trips Perfect for Fall

There’s something about a fall road trip that brings out the best of Wisconsin. Acres and acres of brilliantly colored forests, seasonal farmers’ markets and roadside stands around almost every corner make for a magical trip. Add in one-of-a-kind attractions and charming, history-filled villages dotted along scenic byways and rustic roads, and you’ve got an unforgettable excursion.

So, fill your car with family or friends — here are two awe-inspiring itineraries for autumn fun.

Route 1: Wind Along the Stunning Wisconsin River 

The first designated Wisconsin Scenic Byway, Highway 60 stretches 100 miles along the Lower Wisconsin River from Lodi to Prairie du Chien. This 2-day itinerary highlights some favorite stops along this drive, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of fall-colored leaves. 

Day One: Local Cheese and Out-of-this-World Attractions

Carr Valley Cheese - Sauk City

Start your journey by picking up some quintessential road trip snacks: fresh cheese curds. Carr Valley Cheese is the most award-winning cheese company in the world, with over 80 different delicious varieties. Stop in the Sauk City location to take your pick and get a photo on the cow-shaped bench out front.

Taliesin - Spring Green

Next, wind your way 40 miles west to discover the artsy enclave of Spring Green. Here, you’ll find the sprawling estate of America’s most famous architect, Frank Lloyd Wright. Taliesin, a national historic landmark, is often called his “self-portrait.” The site of several fires, Taliesin was continuously rebuilt and expanded by Wright well into his final years. Tours of Taliesin and several other estate buildings are available throughout the fall, but be sure to book your tour online well before your visit to get an up-close view of this masterpiece.

House on the Rock - Spring Green

Just down the road from Taliesin is another fascinating attraction known as House on the Rock. Built by the eccentric Alex Jordan, the Japanese-style home is both an architectural attraction and a museum of expansive and eclectic collections. 

The house’s 218-foot suspended “Infinity Room” is at its most spectacular in the fall, with the trees of the Wyoming Valley ablaze in fall color 165 feet below the room’s glass floor. The view is a family-favorite — and makes for a great family selfie — while the variety of exhibits (including the world’s largest indoor carousel) means there’s something for everyone.

House on the Rock Resort - Spring Green

After a day of discoveries, rest your head at the nearby House on the Rock Resort. Another stunningly designed building, Frank Lloyd Wright’s influence is seen throughout, particularly in the two-room suites that offer panoramic views of the countryside in full fall color.

Day Two: History and Hiking

After grabbing a coffee, pastry and maybe a book or two from Arcadia Books in Spring Green, hit the road to continue on your journey. The Scenic Byway will take you further into Wisconsin’s Driftless Region, a dramatic landscape carved millions of years ago by glaciers. Enjoy your drive through river bluffs cloaked in colorful leaves as you continue west.

Unique Cafe - Boscobel

Stop for lunch at Unique Cafe, a spot that lives up to its name with walls lined floor to ceiling with vintage signs, photos and local memorabilia. You and your group can fill up on loaded omelets, juicy burgers and enjoy an old-fashioned malt for dessert.

Fort Crawford Museum and Villa Louis - Prairie du Chien

For the fall color finale, head all the way to the end of the road. State Highway 60 ends just north of where the Wisconsin and Mississippi Rivers meet, at Prairie du Chien. The state’s second-oldest community, Prairie du Chien was an important part of the nineteenth-century fur trade. Dive into more history of the area at the Fort Crawford Museum and Villa Louis.

Wyalusing State Park - Prairie du Chien

If your group enjoys camping, soak up the fresh fall air at Wyalusing State Park. One of Wisconsin's oldest parks, Wyalusing features spectacular river vistas as well as Native American burial mounds. The setting is unforgettably picturesque in the fall and the perfect way to end your trip: with s’mores, stars and quality time together.

For a more stylish stay, check out the River District or Waterfront hotels, both just steps from the mighty Mississippi.

Route 2: Get on the All-American Great River Road

The Wisconsin Great River Road National Scenic Byway stretches for 250 miles along the Mississippi River on the western edge of the state. Use this 3-day itinerary as inspiration for your next autumn adventure.

Day One: A Colorful Cruise & Historic Hotel

Day Two: Bluffs, Birds and More

Historic Alma

Continue north to the charming town of Alma. The entire town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places because so many of the community’s historic buildings have been beautifully restored. Located between the Mississippi River and the 500-foot limestone bluffs behind the town, Alma is seven miles long, but just two blocks wide.

Rieck’s Lake Park - Alma

This area draws national attention from birdwatchers every fall during the Alma Tundra Swan Watch. Throughout late October and early November, birders gather at the Rieck’s Lake Park wildlife observation platform, where the majestic swans make one of their only stops during their annual migration from northern Canada to the Chesapeake Bay area.

Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum - Pepin

Fifteen miles north of Alma, Pepin is the birthplace of Laura Ingalls Wilder, the famed author of the “Little House” books. The village honors the writer’s life and work with the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum and a replica of her log cabin. Immerse yourself in this iconic American treasure to feel history come alive.

Villa Bellezza Winery - Pepin

End your day with a visit to the picturesque vineyards at Villa Bellezza Winery. This Mediterranean-style winery, restaurant and venue welcomes guests year-round for tours, tastings and dining at the on-site restaurant. 

Pepin Treehouse - Pepin

For a truly one-of-a-kind stay, book the magical Pepin Forest Treehouse. Just minutes away from town, you and your crew can wander the river-bluff trails and then unwind in a hot tub or cedar sauna, cozy up and read in the stair nook or make a bonfire in the outdoor firepit.

Day Three: Art, Apples & Unforgettable Views

Stockholm Pie & General Store - Stockholm

It’s a short jaunt from Alma to Stockholm, where a stop at the award-winning Stockholm Pie & General Store is a must. Crowned 'Best Pie Shop in America' two years in a row by USA TODAY, fall means you can try delectable specials such as pumpkin pecan. 

Downtown Stockholm

Although its population is less than 100 people, Stockholm boasts an impressive Main Street of original art galleries and culinary attractions. The town is also home to a number of eclectic artists and artisans, whose works are featured in The Purple Turtle Artisan Collective and Northern Oak Amish Furniture.

Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area - Stockholm

For even more amazing autumn views, head to Maiden Rock Bluff State Natural Area. Overlooking Lake Pepin and the Mississippi River, the 400-foot-high bluff is home to nesting Peregrine Falcons, one of only six bluffs on the Mississippi River where the falcons successfully nest.

Maiden Rock Cidery & Orchard - Stockholm

You can’t go on a fall road trip without stopping for some fresh apple cider. Maiden Rock Cidery & Orchard offers small-batch, artisanal cider, crafted with skill and passion. Spend the afternoon picking your own apples and bring some cider (and wine) home to remember your trip. 

Find even more awesome autumn color on these additional fall color road trips throughout the state!

Ready for your next autumn adventure? See real-time, local fall color conditions with Wisconsin's Fall Color Report.