Unexpected Urban Escapes in Wisconsin

Hip & a Little Under the Radar, These Cities Deliver Big on Fun Vibes

 While Wisconsin is famous for its 15,000 sparkling lakes, majestic bluffs and towering forests, it’s also home to vibrant cities that pulse with fresh energy. For hip experiences like these, urban hubs such as Milwaukee and Madison likely spring to mind, but there are other cities that should be on your radar when it comes to all things trendy. These locales prove that hopping off the beaten path can pay off in a big way. 

Whether you’re planning an aesthetic escape that’s worthy of your social media feed or you’re someone who wants to immerse yourself in the latest and greatest shops, restaurants and activities, you’ll want to explore these remarkably on-trend towns.

Eau Claire 

Situated just 90 miles east of Minneapolis, this vibrant city offers all kinds of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, music lovers, art enthusiasts and foodies alike. Stay the night in style at The Oxbow Hotel. Centrally located and with record players in every room, The Oxbow offers rentals of bikes, kayaks and canoes to take advantage of nearby bike trails and the refreshing confluence of the Eau Claire and Chippewa rivers.  Fuel up at The Nucleus, or “The Nuke,” as locals call it. In addition to coffee, they have a full brunch and lunch menu that includes crepes and popular lemon and ricotta hotcakes. Visit Revival Records to explore a one-of-a-kind shop for vinyl spanning all genres. Or find something to take home at The Local Store, a hip, historic shop downtown known for fun products that evoke the Wisconsin way of life. 

Colorful murals have been popping up all around Eau Claire displaying the creativity of local artists throughout the downtown area. Explore this eclectic mix of street art, snapping pictures along the way. Once you’ve worked up a thirst, stop by The Brewing Projekt, a more intimate brew venue that has developed a fast following for its terrific variety, including IPAs, stouts and lagers. Music is on the menu at The Plus, an artisan pizza restaurant that doubles as a club with open mic nights, live band karaoke and comedy acts. Enjoy sophisticated farm-to-table cuisine at The Informalist. And be sure to check out their selection of tasty housemade gelato for dessert. 

La Crosse 

Perched alongside the Minnesota border, where the Mississippi River flows into Lake Onalaska, La Crosse is a Wisconsin city that just may have it all. Once you’ve soaked up the beauty from the trail in the La Crosse River Marsh, Riverside Park and Grandad Bluff Park, gather your hungry crew to dig into La Crosse’s must-try foodie destinations. The Crow, a gastropub and bourbon bar, serves up elevated burgers in an atmosphere that’s equal parts rustic and modern. You also won’t want to miss Lovechild, especially if you’re traveling with your sweetie. Sip Pinot Noir and sneak samples of pan-seared sea bass or braised lamb shank from each other’s plates as you dine at what Food & Wine has recognized as one of the “50 Most Romantic Restaurants in the Country.” Get a real feel for local flavor at 608 Brewing Company and relish one of their complex and flavorful beers like the Bourbon Barrel Mexican Chocolate Cake stout. Have a sweet tooth in your group? The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor dishes up everyday favorites and so-right-now flavors, like salted caramel and maple walnut. 

If you’d like to switch gears to shopping, pick up some carefully selected — and beautiful — wares at Curated, a boutique and design studio in one that purveys elegant finds for the home. For a hotel that’s more than just a place to lay your head at night, book a stay at The Charmant, with its historic yet modish feel dotted with statement lighting you’ll want to replicate in your own abode. Complete your chic retreat with an intimate theater or concert performance at the Pump House Regional Arts Center, which regularly welcomes indie acts. 

Janesville 

There’s no denying the charm of South Central Wisconsin’s Janesville, which has recently been undergoing an artsy transformation. The downtown district is home to nearly 30 incredible murals, celebrating culture, history and creativity through vibrant displays of color and pattern. You’ll also find sculptures, statues, historical markers and monuments dotted throughout the area. 

Janesville also boasts an up-and-coming culinary scene like nowhere else. From farm-to-table restaurants to trendy gastropubs and glamorous wine bars, the city contains a smorgasbord of locally owned eateries — each with their own style, menu and influences. While strolling downtown Janesville, you’re sure to notice the picturesque three-story classical brick building that overlooks the Rock River. This is where you’ll find the Genisa Wine Bar, and when you step inside, you and your crew will discover an elegant space serving up all kinds of authentic Italian specialties meant to be shared. For a more casual meal that still packs a punch, take your group to Sandwich Bar, where they serve up gourmet sandwiches in a colorful industrial setting. 

For a lively lunch or evening out, head to drafthouse in downtown Janesville. This gastropub offers 24 local Wisconsin beers on tap as well as wine, craft cocktails and even a mocktail menu. If you and your special someone are in the mood for delicious, authentic Chinese food, the Cozy Inn Chinese Restaurant lives up to its name with romantic vibes and an extensive menu of Hunan and Cantonese cuisine. Beloved by locals and visitors alike, the restaurant is a Janesville institution that’s been in business for over 100 years, making it the oldest Chinese restaurant in Wisconsin and second oldest in the nation! 

Oshkosh 

As one of the cities in the Fox Valley, Oshkosh is often associated with its nearby neighbors, Appleton and Green Bay. But through its many trendy offerings, it has proven that it has its own noteworthy scene. This is a place where you can really have a proper night on the town, but before that, stop by AtomicKatz, a favorite boutique among vintage devotees that’s famed for its midcentury treasures. Eroding Winds Record Shop also warrants a visit if it’s vinyl or nothing for you. Fuel up the crew with a stop at Elsewhere Market and Coffee House or peruse Wagner Market, where everyone can pick their favorite supplies for a picnic of artisan sandwiches. 

Get some culture in at The Paine Art Center and Gardens, a 1920s mansion reimagined with stunning botanical gardens and art exhibits. After getting all dressed up, head to one of Oshkosh’s many dining options, from modern American dining at Becket’s to classic-yet-hip supper club dishes at The Roxy. Or choose Gardina’s Kitchen & Bar, where you can toast with craft cocktails over expertly prepared strip steaks, or Fox River Brewing Company, for dockside pints and a seasonal menu. For the perfect nightcap, order a Door County cherry vodka at Sturgeon Spirits Craft Distillery. And no night in Oshkosh is finished without seeing who can nail the most strikes in a game or two at The Lanes at the Howard, where a swanky bar flanks the most luxe bowling alley you’ve ever laid eyes on. 

Beloit

Less than 10 minutes from the Illinois border, Beloit feels like stepping back into another time, but in a sleek and stylish way. For instance, there’s the Ironworks Hotel, housed in an 1858 factory, with visuals that are simultaneously industrial and stylish. Have your four-legged companions with you? They are welcome too. 

To feel like you’ve been transported to a midcentury oasis, pay a visit to 5BAR. You and your friends will love the snazzy vintage decor almost as much as the refreshingly unique cocktails, such as the Cold Fashioned, flavored with cold brew. Stick-to-your-ribs fare is making a comeback, and you’ll get your fill at Lucy’s #7 Burger Bar. Sip milkshakes or malts, and ooh and aah over their oh-so-good, real-deal burgers that are stuffed with gooey cheese. 

For the music lovers, there is plenty to please the crew here, such as Fridays in the Park outdoor concerts, live local music at truk’t (also serving up street tacos, tequila and whiskey) and Tin Dog Records, a paradise for vinyl lovers. Need a spot to play those new tunes? Keep the musical vibes going into the evening with a stay at Hotel Goodwin, which, along with its sophisticated surroundings, includes turntables and record collections in all the rooms. 

No matter which region of the state you choose to visit, from eateries to boutiques to fresh experiences, you’re sure to discover some hip hidden gems.