Winter is still in full swing during Valentine’s Day in Wisconsin. Accordingly, the state’s rolling farmlands and windswept shores end up appearing like a sparkling, snowy wonderland. This friendly Midwestern state is an ideal romantic getaway spot if you want to snowshoe along the frozen waves of Lake Superior, or enjoy a candlelit evening out at a world-class restaurant in Madison. Book a stay at one of many unforgettable Wisconsin vacation rentals today. Check out Wisconsin’s most beautiful areas for a Valentine’s Day getaway.
1. Madison
Enjoy a foodie-friendly Valentine’s Day getaway in Madison, a beautiful city tucked between Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Vacation rentals near the Wisconsin State Capitol Building put you within strolling distance of the downtown restaurant scene; make reservations well in advance at romantic local hot spots such as L’Etoile and Sardine. Start the day with the annual Valentine’s Day 5K at the University of Wisconsin Madison, which offers discounted couples’ registration.
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2. Lake Geneva
Lose yourself in the beauty of southern Wisconsin in Lake Geneva, a tiny lakefront getaway located an easy drive from Chicago. Book waterfront vacation rentals to watch the sunset over the lake in front of a roaring fire; then, head downtown for an intimate dinner at restaurants such as The Geneva Inn or Baker House. Take a romantic couples’ sleigh ride through the snow-covered forests and fields of the Grand Geneva grounds with Dan Patch Stables. On years with no snow, tour the area aboard a horse-drawn carriage. In the evening, head to the outdoor rink at The Abbey Resort for ice skating followed by hot chocolate; skates are available for rent onsite. For an indoor activity, head to the onsite Avani Spa for a couples’ massage and a steam.
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3. Milwaukee
As you research where to go in Wisconsin for Valentine’s Day, Milwaukee is a natural contender. The state’s largest city offers plenty to do on a romantic getaway. Enjoy an evening of ice skating at the Pettit Center, sample liquors at the Great Lakes Distillery, or enjoy French cuisine with a view of Lake Michigan at the Lake Park Bistro. For an evening of culture, check out the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra, Florentine Opera, or Milwaukee Ballet.
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4. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Enjoy an off-the-beaten-path Valentine’s Day retreat in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, which is tucked on the shores of Lake Superior in northern Wisconsin. Book one of the area’s beautiful cabin vacation rentals as a cozy home base, and spend your days hiking to the area’s stunning ice caves, which are at their most spectacular in February. For the best view, head across the ice in the early morning, when the sunlight sparkles on the ice and the lack of crowds creates a peaceful, secluded vibe. Late one evening, strap on snowshoes and head out to the shore to watch for the colorful northern lights, which dance across the sky frequently in the winter months.
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5. Trempealeau
Sample some of Wisconsin’s best wines on a Valentine’s Day vacation to Trempealeau. Vacation rentals in this small town give you easy access to the Great River Road Wine Trail. Spend your trip tasting reds and whites at the Elmaro Vineyard or the Seven Hawks Vineyards. Cross the river into Minnesota to check out the Riverview Vineyard and Winery or the Garvin Heights Vineyards. Afterward, enjoy the riverfront scenery with a hike through Perrot State Park or along Brady’s Bluff, or enjoy a cozy dinner at Sullivan’s Supper Club or the Trempealeau Hotel.
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6. Cedarburg
One of Wisconsin’s most picturesque cities, Cedarburg makes a postcard-perfect spot for a romantic vacation. Bundle up for a day of exploring the historic downtown area; pop into Silver Creek Brewing Company for a beer, wander through the Cedarburg Art Museum, and taste the Marquette red wine at the Cedar Creek Winery. If the snow is falling, take a romantic sleigh ride for two through the forest at Paradise Ranch. Check out the annual Cedarburg Winter Festival, which happens each year on the third weekend in February. Fill up at the pancake breakfast before watching the parade, marveling at the gorgeous ice sculptors, and watching the on-ice barrel races. On Valentine’s Day evening, you can’t go wrong with an intimate dinner at the charming Farmstead or Anvil Pub and Grille restaurants.
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7. Ephraim
Spend your Valentine’s Day amid the natural beauty of Door County in Ephraim, a quaint lakeside village. Enjoy the jingle of sleigh bells as you glide through the fields and down historic logging trails on a sleigh ride with Mayberry’s; rides operate on the grounds of Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery, and reservations are recommended. Afterward, put on snowshoes and hike together along the silent trails in the White Cedar Nature Reserve. After you refuel with legendary ice cream sundaes at Wilson’s, head to The Spa At Sacred Grounds for the signature Serenity Massage. In the evening, celebrate your love with a charming dinner at the Old Post Office Restaurant or the Chef’s Hat Cafe.
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