Take An Awe-Inspiring Autumn River Road Trip

Start your fall adventure with a breakfast worth gathering around at A&J Pancake House in Lodi, just northwest of Madison. Dig into fluffy peach pancakes, savory omelets, sweet crepes and more, then hop in the car and hit the Lower Wisconsin Riverway together.  

For some quintessential road trip snacks, stop in at Carr Valley Cheese—the most award-winning cheese company in the world. With flavors that range from Cocoa Cardona and Black Truffle to Cranberry Chipotle Cheddar, you’re sure to find something for everyone’s taste here. And don’t forget the photo-op on the cow-shaped bench out front! 

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.  You and your group can take an awe-inspiring tour of the Taliesin estate decorated by brilliant fall foliage and enjoy a deep dive into a world of iconic designs. 

Just down the road from Taliesin, you’ll find the wonderfully weird and unforgettable House on the Rock. This Japanese-inspired home is part architectural marvel, part museum and packed with delightfully unexpected collections. Head out onto the 218-foot suspended Infinity Room for a jaw-dropping view of the Wyoming Valley, where a sea of colorful trees stretches 165 feet below the glass floor. Snap a group selfie, then explore the exhibits — including the world’s largest indoor carousel — for an experience everyone will be talking about for years to come. 

After a day full of exploration, it’s time to put your feet up at House on the Rock Resort. Settle into a two-room suite, where Frank Lloyd Wright-inspired design meets sweeping views of the countryside dressed in autumn color. With a championship golf course, a relaxing spa and two indoor pools, this is the perfect place to slow down and unwind with your favorite people. 

Begin your second day by popping into Arcadia Books in Spring Green. At this charming independent bookstore, you'll find both tried-and-true classics, intriguing new releases and unique gifts. And with a cafe right in the store, you and your crew can fuel up before continuing further into Wisconsin’s Driftless Region — a dramatic landscape carved by glaciers millions of years ago.   

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. As the state’s second-oldest community, this riverside town was an important part of the nineteenth-century fur trade. Dive into more history of the area at the Fort Crawford Museum, a National Historic Landmark that includes exhibits about the former military hospital and the city’s development. 

Soak up as much crisp fall air as possible at Wyalusing State Park, one of Wisconsin’s oldest parks. Wander among Native American burial mounds, take in sweeping river views and set up camp to embrace a whole weekend of fall adventure.

If you’re craving a more luxurious stay, opt for a room at the Waterfront Hotel in Prairie du Chien. Here, you’ll be right downtown with the Mississippi River just outside your door. Stroll to nearby marinas, shops and restaurants framed by colorful trees. Park the car, take in the views and savor one last night together on your Wisconsin river road trip.