Dining and Exploring Along Wisconsin’s Waterfronts
East-Central and Southeast Wisconsin are home to some of the state’s most stunning lakeside towns, offering travelers a mix of waterfront dining, charming cities and local brews. This 2-3 day itinerary takes you through highlights of the region, including plenty of stops for delicious meals and gorgeous views of Lake Michigan and other stunning waterways.
Day 1: One-of-a-Kind Meals in MilwaukeeÂ
Breakfast at CollectivoÂ
Start your journey with fresh coffee and homemade eats at Collectivo. Dine outside at their lakefront location for a view of Lake Michigan perfect for kicking off your waterfront adventures.Â
Lunch at Bavette La BoucherieÂ
For your mid-day meal, discover the charming Bavette La Boucherie, a restaurant and market that began as a traditional butcher shop. Chef Karen Bell sources ingredients from local farms and serves tasty dishes such as grilled cornbread and brisket and caramelized onion perogies. Eat at the restaurant or get sandwiches to go for an unforgettable lakeside picnic.Â
Afternoon Boat TourÂ
Get out on the water with a tour from the Milwaukee Boat Line. Choose from sightseeing tours or cocktail tours for extra fun.Â
Dinner at AmilindaÂ
Inspired by the flavors of Spain & Portugal, James Beard nominated ('22, '23, & '24) Chef Gregory León crafts his dishes at Amilinda using locally sourced ingredients paired with specialty items from the Iberian Peninsula. You and your crew can choose from the ever-changing menu that often includes specialties such as braised beef tongue and Sinaloan Shrimp. Â
Where to Stay: Saint Kate, The Arts HotelÂ
For an extraordinary (and artsy) stay, book a room at Saint Kate, The Arts Hotel. With an onsite gallery and creative rooms, you and your group will remember your trip for years to come.Â
Day 2: Savor Sheboygan and OshkoshÂ
Lunch at 3 Sheeps Brewing or Moonlight TavernÂ
Gather with your group to 3 Sheeps Brewing in Sheboygan, where you can choose from 26 craft brews on tap in a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Grab a pint and pair it with one of their rotating food truck options for a laid-back lunch with friends.
Or, if you’re up for a short drive, try lunch at Moonlight Tavern in Port Washington, where you can savor seafood, steak and more before exploring the charming lakeside city.Â
Afternoon at Kohler-Andrae State ParkÂ
After lunch, spend the afternoon together at Kohler-Andrae State Park, where you can enjoy a peaceful walk along the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan, hiking through beautiful dunes or jumping in for a swim.
Snacks and Sips at Waterfront Wine BarÂ
Continue your journey by stopping in for delicious snacks and sips at the Waterfront Wine Bar in Manitowoc. Here your group can enjoy small plates, wine flights and scenic views of the Manitowoc River.Â
Dinner at Becket’sÂ
Next, head to Oshkosh for dinner at Becket’s, a popular waterfront restaurant offering a mix of American and international dishes. With its location along the Fox River, you’ll enjoy stunning views as you dine on specialties like the salmon burger or Japanese chicken sandwich.Â
Where to Stay: Oshkosh Waterfront HotelÂ
End your day with a stay at the Oshkosh Waterfront Hotel & Convention Center. Nestled on the banks of the Fox River in downtown Oshkosh, this is the only waterfront hotel in the city. Most of the hotel’s guest rooms provide a beautiful view of the Fox River and Lake Winnebago—making it the perfect place to unwind and recharge for more adventures.Â
Day 3: Explore Oshkosh to Fond du LacÂ
Morning at TJ’s Harbor RestaurantÂ
Start your third day with brunch at TJ’s Harbor Restaurant in Oshkosh. Located on Lake Winnebago, this spot offers a relaxing atmosphere where your group can enjoy everything from chicken and waffles to Bourbon popcorn shrimp. Â
Explore the EAA Aviation MuseumÂ
After brunch, spend the morning exploring the EAA Aviation Museum, one of the most extensive aviation museums in the world. Discover more than 200 aircraft, learn about aviation history, and even experience a flight simulator for interactive fun.Â
Afternoon at Lakeside ParkÂ
Spend the afternoon at Lakeside Park in Fond du Lac, where you can take a stroll along the waterfront, rent a paddleboat and explore a lighthouse for hours of fun. With plenty of walking paths and picnic spots, it’s a great way to enjoy the fresh air with loved ones.Â
Dinner: The Cellar DistrictÂ
Discover the unexpected at The Cellar District—a historic church transformed into a one-of-a-kind restaurant. With a wide variety of cuisine that ranges from tacos to burgers to flatbreads and more, you’re sure to find something here for everyone in your group.Â
Where to Stay: Hotel RetlawÂ
End your day with a stay at Hotel Retlaw in Fond du Lac. This historic boutique hotel offers a mix of modern luxury and vintage charm that includes a farm-to-table restaurant and cozy in-house coffee shop.Â
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East-Central and Southeast Wisconsin are full of beautiful lake towns and incredible waterfront dining ideal for experiencing with your favorite people. Whether you’re enjoying craft brews in Sheboygan, exploring riverfront paths or dining by the water in Oshkosh, this region offers a perfect blend of food, drinks and scenic views.Â
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Publish Date: 02/12/25
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