Six of Wisconsin’s most romantic little towns

Mariah Haberman

Whether you’re brainstorming creative honeymoon ideas or just trying to spice up Wednesday night date, Wisconsin has plenty to offer all you lovebirds. Read on for six of the state’s most romantic destinations:

Bayfield

You can choose to do a lot or a little in this quaint harbor town. With a front row view of beautiful Lake Superior and a population of just 530, Bayfield is the perfect place to escape the chaos of city life and take delight in a dose of small town charm. Hop on a pair of bicycles and cruise past orchards or trek through the Chequamegon National Forest. Hit up the Wisconsin Lake Superior Byway for a truly spectacular road trip. Test your wildlife expertise at one of the many accessible birding sites in the Chequamegon Bay. For the more adventurous couple, kayak in and around the Apostle Island sea caves or hit the slopes at Mt. Ashwabay.

Places to Stay: Artesian House B&B, Old Rittenhouse Inn, Pinehurst Inn

Cedarburg

This casually elegant community is another hot spot for folks seeking a romantic escape. Take a stroll through Cedarburg’s historic downtown, stock up on goods at the farmer’s market on Friday morning and sample some vino at Cedar Creek Winery. Square away a few hours to explore more of the Big Mill - its home to the winery, a cafe, blacksmith forge and a handful of shops and galleries. (And might I add: I highly recommend seeing the mill around the holidays.)

Places to Stay: Stagecoach Inn B&B, Washington House Inn, Sybaris Hotel, Ephraim.

Ephraim

Door County has long established itself as a romantic destination. When it comes to igniting a little romance on vacation, Ephraim is as alluring as it gets. For starters, the sunsets here are magical. Rent a pontoon boat, cuddle up with your sweetie and witness one together. Secondly, Ephraim has Wilson’s, an iconic Door County ice-cream parlor (and hey, nothing says “I love you” like a yummy Wilson’s sundae).

Places to Stay: Bay Breeze Resort, the Eagle Harbor Inn, Edgewater Resort.

Elkhart Lake

Heading south to Sheboygan County, I’m a huge fan of the oh-so-romantic Elkhart Lake. You may decide to challenge each other on the greens at Quit Qui Oc Golf Club, pamper yourselves at Osthoff’s Resort’s Aspira Spa or indulge in a few tropical cocktails at Barefoot Bay Tiki Bar. Outdoorsy duos really appreciate Marsh Park, Tower & Wildlife area, where campsites, fishing piers, picnic areas and a boat launch are all awaiting your next night out with your love.

Places to Stay: Osthoff Lake Resort, Victorian Village Resort.

Hudson

This river town is an up-and-coming vacation destination. With the St. Croix River as its backdrop, it’s no wonder why more couples are spending their time together in Hudson. Browse American craft and fine art at Seasons on St. Croix, dine at one of Hudson’s many trendy downtown restaurants, get a wintry view of the city from above during the Hot Air Affair or spend a few hours taking in the scenic view that is Willow Falls. For the history lovers, take a stroll down Third Street, where you’ll discover a series of impressive historic homes that were built for town leaders and lumber barons in the late 1800s.

Places to Stay: Escape by the Lake B&B, Phipps Inn B&B.

Lake Geneva

No matter the time of year, Lake Geneva is a premiere destination for a romantic getaway. Consider visiting in the winter for horseback riding at Dan Patch Stables, ice-skating at The Abbey Resort or taking a romantic ride through downtown, lakefront, and historic Maple Park District with Field Stone Farm Carriage & Pony. If visiting in the summer, you’ll want to explore the lake via Lake Geneva Cruise Line, head to Big Foot Beach State Park or sign up for a sailing lesson through Geneva Lake Sailing School.

While in town, be sure to do a little stargazing from the nearby Yerkes Observatory and take in the unique Dancing Horses Show.

Places to Stay: Baker House, French Country Inn, Grand Geneva Resort.

Mariah Haberman is the co-host of the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. She hails from Evansville, where she was brought up in a family of seven in a small farmhouse outside of town. Some of her favorite memories include Lake Michigan fishing trips with her Dad, showing sheep at the Rock County Fair and buzzing around the farm on an ATV with her little brother.