Trip Inspiration
Winter Vacation Ideas
Embrace the Magic of Winter in Wisconsin
Winter in Wisconsin is more than snow—it’s a season of sparkling adventures, flurries of fun and cozy moments. Glide across frozen lakes, carve through fresh powder, wander snow-dusted trails or simply warm up fireside with a mug of toasty cheer. However you do winter, you’ll find your kind of chill right here with these winter vacation ideas.
Wisconsin's Must-Visit Ski Hills
7 Spots For Cozy Igloo & Greenhouse Dining
8 Family-Friendly Festivals to Embrace Winter’s Magic
Wisconsin Cabins for a Romantic Winter Getaway
Splashes in the Forecast
Indoor Waterparks for a Warm Family Getaway
Splash like it’s summer in the middle of winter! Wisconsin’s indoor waterparks promise a fun-filled way to play and stay for visitors of all ages. Chase thrills in a tube as you plunge through twists, turns and drops, lounge by the lazy river or catch currents in the wave pool. There’s plenty of water, rides and quality time for you to dip your toes into.
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6 Wisconsin Indoor Water Parks for A Warm Winter Getaway
Get Inspired
More Wisconsin Winter Vacation Ideas
A Winter Weekend Getaway to Lake Geneva
Winter Getaway Idea: Milwaukee
5 Winter Adventures in Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest’s Lakewood Area
A Winter Getaway to Door County
Embrace the Outdoors on a Green Bay Winter Getaway
3 Days in Oconto County’s Winter Northwoods
Enjoy Snow-Covered Adventures in Northern Wisconsin's St. Germain
5 Top Spots for Downhill Fun in Wisconsin
Know Before You Go
What’s a Wisconsin Winter Like?
Winter in Wisconsin brings cold temps — typically single digits to low 30s ºF — and plenty of snow across the state. From snowy forests up north, to festive towns down south, it’s a season made for skiing, sledding and warming up fireside.
When the weather gets cold, the fun begins! Grab your skis, snowboard or tube and hit the slopes, or snowmobile and snowshoe out on the trails. For a different kind of adventure, explore ice caves, take a polar plunge or try your hand at ice climbing. Take a brewery tour with your crew or book a cozy cabin for a romantic getaway—or even make a splash at Wisconsin’s indoor waterparks!
No snow, no problem! Many ski resorts in Wisconsin make their own snow, so you can partake in all the downhill fun as soon as the temperatures drop. Use the Wisconsin Snow Report to get all the current conditions.
There are also plenty of winter vacation ideas that deliver the fun, flurries or not. Here, there are loads of indoor activities to keep your crew busy (and toasty). Visit the Wisconsin Dells to dive into indoor waterpark fun, share a cozy hot toddy at one our many supper clubs or visit an art museum for an inspiring adventure.
Produce like hardy turnips, leeks and brussel sprouts have their harvest season in the colder months of November and December. Also, Wisconsin’s statewide farmers’ markets are buzzing year-round—even indoors.
Magical Moments
Light Up Your Holiday Spirit
Dazzling colors, twinkling lights and sparkling smiles are just a few of the things you can expect to find at Wisconsin’s holiday light shows. Whether you tour each display from a cozy car or grab your mittens and walk together from one sight to the next, winter magic is sure to illuminate your evening.
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Wisconsin Holiday Light Shows
Winter Activities
Gear Up for Wisconsin Winter Fun
Unexpected Winter Activities
Snowmobiling
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Ice Skating
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Snow Tubing
Biking
Fishing
Waterparks
Spas
Museums & History
Gear Up for Wisconsin Winter Fun
Unexpected Winter Activities
Snowmobiling
Downhill Skiing & Snowboarding
Ice Skating
Cross Country Skiing & Snowshoeing
Snow Tubing
Biking
Fishing
Waterparks
Spas
Museums & History
No Snow? No problem.
Winter in Wisconsin doesn’t slow down when the forecast shows sun. From scenic hikes and frozen waterfalls to cozy cabins, brewery tours and lively events, there are plenty of ways to embrace the season’s chill—no snow required.
Culture & Arts
Spas
Supper Clubs
Breweries
Snow Globe Snaps
