Wisconsin Vacation Rentals
Explore 520 rental homes and villas in Wisconsin for your next vacation or business travel. With private vacation home rentals, enjoy a more personalized stay with locations in Milwaukee, Eagle River and Green Bay. With a wide range of homes to offer, pricing can start as low as $57 per night with homes containing as many as 11 bedrooms and 10 bathrooms. However you're looking to experience your stay, Homes and Villas by Marriott has your next vacation home waiting.
Types of vacation rentals in Wisconsin
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Wisconsin Overview
Wisconsin, nestled in the heart of the northern Midwest, is an enchanting destination that promises an unforgettable escape. With its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cultural tapestry, and an array of famous attractions, it's a place where memories are waiting to be made.
Imagine waking up in your own private home, nestled among the serene beauty of Wisconsin's majestic Northwoods or along the tranquil shores of Lake Superior. Here, you can find a variety of private homes that offer not just seclusion and comfort but also the joy of bringing your furry friends along, thanks to numerous pet-friendly options. For those who relish the luxury of a refreshing dip, many homes boast their own swimming pools, providing the perfect private oasis for relaxation or family fun.
The state's natural splendor is epitomized by the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, where historic lighthouses stand sentinel over crystal-clear waters and sea caves beckon adventurers. Kayak along the coastline or embark on a boat tour to fully appreciate these natural wonders. For those who prefer freshwater fun, Wisconsin Dells is not to be missed. As the "Waterpark Capital of the World," it offers exhilarating aquatic adventures that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
Cultural connoisseurs will revel in Wisconsin's rich tapestry of history and the arts. Milwaukee's skyline is graced by the architectural marvel that is the Milwaukee Art Museum, while Madison's vibrant arts scene captivates with performances and exhibitions. The state's brewing legacy is alive and well, inviting you to explore its craft breweries and savor a pint of the local brew.
Cheese aficionados will be in heaven as they traverse the countryside, discovering artisanal cheesemakers and indulging in some of the finest cheeses the nation has to offer. The Dane County Farmers' Market in Madison is a cornucopia of fresh produce and local delicacies, reflecting Wisconsin's bountiful harvests.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find year-round excitement, from the verdant trails of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail to the winter wonderlands that offer skiing and snowmobiling. And let's not forget the state's festive spirit, with events like Milwaukee's Summerfest, the world's largest music festival, showcasing the state's lively community and diverse heritage.
Wisconsin's waterfronts and beaches, particularly along the Great Lakes, are a highlight for many visitors. The shores of Lake Michigan and Lake Superior offer sandy retreats and opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside picnics, making them a must-visit for anyone seeking the tranquility of water's edge.
In Wisconsin, every stay is more than just a trip—it's an experience steeped in comfort, adventure, and the welcoming spirit of the Midwest. Whether you're looking for the peace of a lakeside retreat, the thrill of urban exploration, or the charm of rural life, Wisconsin is a destination that truly caters to every preference, with the added luxury of your own private haven to return to at the end of each day.
Cultural Attractions in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, a state in the heart of the Midwest, offers a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that cater to lovers of the arts, history, and local customs. With its diverse array of museums, live music venues, and art galleries, Wisconsin is a haven for those seeking to immerse themselves in cultural pursuits.
Begin your exploration in Milwaukee, Wisconsin's largest city, known for its vibrant arts scene. The Milwaukee Art Museum, with its stunning architecture and expansive collection, is a must-visit. The museum's Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, is a work of art in itself. Inside, you'll find over 30,000 works of art, ranging from European paintings to American decorative arts.
History enthusiasts will appreciate the Milwaukee Public Museum, a natural and human history museum that features a life-size replica of a European village and a walk-through diorama of old Milwaukee. For a deeper dive into the state's past, the Wisconsin Historical Museum in Madison offers exhibits on the state's rich heritage, from Native American history to the immigrant experience.
Live music thrives in Wisconsin, with Summerfest in Milwaukee claiming the title of "The World's Largest Music Festival." This annual event features over 800 acts across 11 days. For a more intimate musical experience, Madison's vibrant live music scene includes venues like the Majestic Theatre and the Orpheum Theater, which host a variety of performances from local and touring artists.
Art galleries abound in Wisconsin, with spaces like the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art offering thought-provoking exhibitions and events. In the small town of Spring Green, art lovers will find the House on the Rock, an architectural marvel filled with eclectic collections and fantastical displays.
Wisconsin's local customs can be experienced through its many festivals and events. The state's German heritage is celebrated at Milwaukee's German Fest, while La Crosse's Oktoberfest is one of the largest in the Midwest. For a taste of local cuisine, the Wisconsin State Fair presents an opportunity to indulge in the state's famous cheeses and craft beers.
Beyond the cities, the state's natural beauty enhances the cultural experience. The scenic landscapes of Door County provide a picturesque backdrop for art studios and galleries, while the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed Taliesin in Spring Green offers insight into the architect's philosophy and design principles.
In Wisconsin, every season brings new opportunities to engage with the arts, delve into history, and celebrate local customs. It's a destination that offers a warm Midwestern welcome and a wealth of cultural treasures waiting to be discovered.
Family friendly activities in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, United States, is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities that will delight children and parents alike. From interactive museums to outdoor adventures, the Badger State offers a variety of experiences that cater to the curious and energetic nature of young travelers.
Begin your Wisconsin adventure at the Milwaukee Public Museum, where kids can walk through the Streets of Old Milwaukee, encounter dinosaurs, and even experience a European Village. The museum's butterfly wing is a magical experience, allowing children to walk among free-flying butterflies from around the world.
For those who love science and technology, the Madison Children's Museum is a must-visit. With hands-on exhibits like the Rooftop Ramble, an outdoor space with gardens and animals, and the Possible-opolis, a city of interconnected exhibits that challenge the mind and body, there's no shortage of learning and fun.
Animal lovers will be thrilled with a visit to the Henry Vilas Zoo in Madison, a free admission zoo that features animals from across the globe. The zoo's Children's Zoo and play area offer interactive fun for the little ones, while the train and carousel rides add a touch of whimsy to the visit.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to do in Wisconsin's natural playgrounds. The Wisconsin Dells, known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," boasts numerous waterparks like Noah's Ark Water Park and Kalahari Resorts, offering year-round aquatic fun for families. Beyond the water slides and wave pools, the Dells area also offers riverboat tours, zipline adventures, and go-karting.
For a quieter but equally engaging experience, Door County offers beautiful beaches, lighthouses, and state parks perfect for hiking, biking, and exploring. Children can enjoy picking cherries in the summer or apples in the fall, and the whole family can savor the local tradition of a fish boil.
In Green Bay, the Bay Beach Amusement Park is a nostalgic treat with classic rides like a wooden roller coaster and Ferris wheel, all at family-friendly prices. And for the sports enthusiasts, a tour of Lambeau Field, home of the Green Bay Packers, is a thrilling experience.
During the winter months, Wisconsin transforms into a snowy wonderland, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snow tubing at resorts like Granite Peak Ski Area.
With its mix of educational attractions, natural beauty, and year-round activities, Wisconsin is a destination that promises memorable experiences for children and a relaxing getaway for the whole family.
Outdoor activities in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, a state known for its dairy farms and friendly Midwestern charm, is also a treasure trove of natural wonders and outdoor activities for those who love to immerse themselves in nature.
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a pristine wilderness area on the shores of Lake Superior. It consists of 21 islands and a 12-mile stretch of mainland coast, offering a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking among the sea caves, hiking on scenic trails, and camping under the stars. The islands are also a great spot for birdwatching, with numerous species making their home in the area.
Door County, often referred to as the "Cape Cod of the Midwest," is a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, known for its 300 miles of shoreline. This picturesque area is dotted with lighthouses, charming small towns, and plenty of opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. The county's state parks, such as Peninsula State Park, offer miles of hiking and biking trails through forests and along the water.
The Ice Age National Scenic Trail is a unique feature of Wisconsin, offering over 1,000 miles of hiking trails that trace the edge of the last continental glacier in North America. This trail provides not only a journey through serene landscapes but also a walk through geological history.
Devil's Lake State Park, located in the Baraboo Hills, is the largest state park in Wisconsin and a haven for rock climbers, hikers, and swimmers. The park's 500-foot quartzite bluffs offer challenging climbs and breathtaking views of the 360-acre Devil's Lake. The park also has over 29 miles of hiking trails that cater to all skill levels.
For a more tranquil experience, the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest covers over 1.5 million acres of Wisconsin's Northwoods. This vast expanse of wilderness is perfect for camping, fishing, and exploring the forest's many lakes and rivers. In the winter, the forest's trails become a playground for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Lastly, the Wisconsin Dells area, known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," also offers natural attractions like the Dells of the Wisconsin River, a scenic gorge famous for its unique sandstone formations and river cruises that provide an up-close look at this geological wonder.
Whether you're paddling through serene waters, hiking along glacial trails, or enjoying the view from a towering bluff, Wisconsin's natural beauty and outdoor adventures are sure to captivate any nature enthusiast.
Weather in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, nestled in the Midwest of the United States, experiences a continental climate with four distinct seasons, each offering its own unique appeal to visitors.
Winter, from December through February, can be quite cold with average temperatures often below freezing. Snowfall is common, particularly in the northern and central parts of the state, making it a haven for winter sports enthusiasts. The southern regions tend to have milder winters, but still experience their fair share of snow and cold temperatures.
Spring, from March to May, brings a gradual warming trend with temperatures ranging from the high 30s to the low 60s Fahrenheit. This season can be unpredictable, with late snowfalls possible in March and April, but it also ushers in the beautiful blooming of wildflowers and the reawakening of the state's lush landscapes.
Summer, from June to August, is the warmest time of the year with temperatures often reaching into the 80s Fahrenheit. Humidity can be high, especially in the southern parts of Wisconsin, making for warm and sometimes muggy conditions. This is also the time for thunderstorms, which can bring heavy rainfall.
Autumn, from September to November, is many visitors' favorite time to explore Wisconsin. The temperatures cool down to a comfortable range between the high 40s and low 70s Fahrenheit. The state is famous for its spectacular fall foliage, with vibrant colors peaking usually in October. The weather is generally pleasant, with lower humidity and less precipitation, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and apple picking.
The most popular weather conditions tend to be in the late spring, when the chill of winter has lifted but the heat of summer has not yet arrived, and in the early fall, when the summer humidity drops and the colorful leaves create picturesque landscapes. These times offer the most comfortable climate for enjoying Wisconsin's outdoor attractions, from its national parks and forests to its charming small towns and vibrant cities. Whether you're looking to explore the great outdoors or enjoy the local culture and cuisine, Wisconsin's weather plays a central role in the state's seasonal charm.
Transportation in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, a state known for its cheese, lakes, and Midwestern charm, offers a variety of transportation options for visitors. The state is served by several airports, with the largest being Milwaukee's General Mitchell International Airport, which offers numerous flights to destinations across the United States and beyond. Other notable airports include Dane County Regional Airport in Madison and Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport, providing additional gateways to the state.
For those who prefer ground transportation, Wisconsin is well-connected by interstates and highways, making it accessible by car from all directions. Major bus services, such as Greyhound and Jefferson Lines, provide routes to and from various Wisconsin cities. Additionally, Amtrak's Hiawatha service connects Milwaukee with Chicago, and the Empire Builder line traverses the state from the Twin Cities to Chicago, offering scenic views of Wisconsin's countryside.
Once in Wisconsin, getting around can vary depending on your location. Larger cities like Milwaukee and Madison have public transportation systems, including buses and, in Madison's case, a free campus and downtown shuttle service. These cities are also increasingly friendly to cyclists, with bike-sharing programs and dedicated lanes.
Car rentals are widely available for those who wish to explore at their own pace, and they are particularly useful for visiting more rural areas or natural attractions such as the Apostle Islands or Door County. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also options in urban areas.
As for walkability, it largely depends on where you are in Wisconsin. Downtown areas of cities like Madison and Milwaukee are quite walkable, with attractions, restaurants, and shops within easy reach. Neighborhoods like Milwaukee's Historic Third Ward and Madison's State Street offer enjoyable pedestrian experiences. However, to fully experience the state's diverse offerings, including state parks, cheese factories, and breweries, having access to a car is beneficial.
In summary, Wisconsin provides a mix of transportation options suitable for a variety of travel plans. Whether you're flying in, taking a bus, or driving, you'll find it relatively straightforward to navigate the state. Urban areas offer some public transportation and walkable neighborhoods, but to truly embrace all that Wisconsin has to offer, a car is often the most convenient choice.