20 Fun Things To Do in Wisconsin Memorial Day Weekend 2025

Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner! What better place to go than Wisconsin? Whether you want to head outdoors or participate in festivities, it has something for you.

Honor the men and women who’ve served in the military and kick off summer with some good old-fashioned fun. Check out the list below for 20 fun things to do in Wisconsin this Memorial Day weekend.

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20 Fun Things To Do In Wisconsin For Memorial Day

Wisconsin is a diverse state with many geographical features, historic towns, and beautiful places to offer.

The list below is categorized geographically, so you can scan through the area of the state you want to be in for recommendations.

Visiting from out of state? Check out the hotel suggestions for where to stay.

Northern Wisconsin

With lakes, forests, rolling hills, and burbling streams, Northern Wisconsin is a mecca for all things outdoors. Most (but not all!) of the suggestions below are great options for anyone wanting to get out in nature and unplug for the long weekend.

More interested in good food and drink? Northern Wisconsin has that too!

1.) Apostle Islands, NORTH

There’s no better destination for a weekend outdoors than the Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. The islands have over 800 plant species and hundreds of birds, deer, and other wildlife.

With 22 islands, you can spend your weekend hiking, paddling, sailing, and diving to see underwater rock formations and shipwrecks. With 19 different campsites, destress, unplug and get out into nature.

Don’t want to spend the whole weekend on a remote island? Head over to nearby Northwoods Zipline Adventure Tours for a day of fun! They offer the most extensive zip line in the Midwest and have awesome Kayaking, ATV, and Aerial trekking tours.

If you’re not planning to go camping, there are some great places to stay nearby. Check out my suggestions below.

Where to Stay: Pinehurst Inn Bed & Breakfast

This comfortable Bed & Breakfast is located in Bayfield. With an outdoor sauna, shared lounge, and air-conditioned rooms, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding areas while still having a great night of sleep.

Lake Superior is only one block away, with many nearby hiking and biking trails. Plus, with fresh-made breakfast every morning and complimentary drinks all day, you can expect only the best at Pinehurst Inn.

Where to Stay: Seagull Bay Motel

Whether you plan to spend your entire weekend at the Seagull Bay Motel or use it as a launching pad for your Apostle Islands adventure, this is a great place to stay.

Located right on the edge of Lake Superior and less than a mile from downtown Bayfield, the location can’t be beaten.

The rooms are simple but clean, and a nearby walking trail gets you to town. This is a comfortable, no-frills motel if you don’t mind not having all the bells and whistles.

2.) North Country National Scenic Trail, NORTH

Add the North Country National Scenic Trail to your to-do list if you stay in Northern Wisconsin.

The longest in all the National Trails System, the North Country National Scenic Trail stretches 4,800 miles across 8 states. There are over 200 miles of trails to explore in Wisconsin alone!

You can experience spectacular waterfalls, incredible vistas, valleys, and rocky outcrops. Perfect for hiking or backpacking, there are day trips and overnight options.

Check out the official website for the North Country Trail for trail maps and get out into the beautiful Northern Woodlands for a memorable Memorial Day Weekend.

Where to Stay: Second Wind Country Inn

Located in Ashland, the Second Wind Country Inn has various room options— even some with a kitchen.

Complete with a garden to meander around; this accommodation option is conveniently located near the North Country National scenic trail.

Whether you’re spending your weekend at the inn or using it as a launching pad, it’s a perfect option. The rooms are comfortable and whimsical, encapsulating the comfort of country living and the beauty of the outdoors.

None of the rooms at this inn have a television, but with so much to do nearby, you won’t even miss it.

Where to Stay: Budget Host Inn

This four-season motel is located 20 miles from Lake Superior and 23.2 miles from the trail. It’s less than a 20 minutes drive from Porcupine Mountains State Park.

Each room has the basics covered with a microwave, refrigerator, and tea/coffee-making facilities. While no meals are provided at the inn, guests receive restaurant discounts for every meal.

This family-friendly location is a fantastic option if you don’t like camping and want something simple.

3.) St. Croix, National Scenic Riverway NORTH WEST

St. Croix National Scenic Riverway includes the lower 52 miles of the St. Croix River and Namekagon Rivers. This national park extends between Taylors Falls in Minnesota and intersects with the Mississippi.

With gloriously clean water and a beautiful forested landscape, it’s the perfect place for an adventure on the water.

Whether you’re kayaking, camping, or fishing, there’s a wide variety of activities to enjoy.

If you’re traveling with kids, stop by the St. Croix River Visitor Center between 10:00 am and 5:00 pm for a free Junior Ranger Booklet! Successfully finish the program and get a St. Croix Junior Ranger badge and patch. So fun!

Where to Stay: Holiday Inn Express

With an indoor pool and a fitness center, the Holiday Inn Express at St. Croix Valley is centrally located. You are within easy access to the gorgeous Riverway National Park and close to Wild Mountain Waterpark and the St. Croix Valley Golf Course.

Spent a full day out enjoying the nearby attractions? Come back and relax in the hotel’s hot tub!

Plus, with breakfast included, there’s one less thing you have to worry about when planning your memorial day weekend trip.

4.) Music in the Park, Hudson, WEST / Octagon House Museum St Croix County Historical Society

If you plan on spending your memorial day weekend close to Hudson, add Music in the Park to your itinerary!

On May 29th, there will be live music in downtown Hudson. Artists featured include Joshua Lassi, the Jake Nelson Band, and more. This family-friendly concert is free to the public and will have bounce houses, face painting, hula hoop contests, and more.

The perfect way to spend Memorial Day, all money raised goes to benefit the VFW Post 10818 and the St. Croix County Freedom Park Center.

Just a few steps away, check out the Octagon House Museum while you’re there. Take a step through the past in this unique stucco octagonal house that was built in 1855. This house is furnished in a mid-9th-century style.

Opening at 11:00 am, the last admission for the museum is at 3:00 pm.

Where to Stay: Comfort Suites Hudson I-94

Hudson Comfort Suites is a fantastic hotel just minutes from downtown Hudson. With a year-round indoor heated pool, this hotel has all the amenities you could ever want.

Previous guests rave about the friendly staff and the excellent breakfast. Not planning on sticking around for the day? A Grab & Go bag is available!

Hopefully, you won’t need to do any work over Memorial Day weekend. Still, if you do, this hotel comes fully equipped with high-speed wifi and a business center.

Where to Stay: Royal Inn Hudson I-94

Less than 2 miles from downtown Hudson and the St. Croix River, the Royal Inn Hudson I-94 is the highest-rated motel in Minneapolis/St. Paul area.

Guests at the Royal Inn are greeted with a welcome bag and immaculate rooms. Each room has Sealy Posturepedic beds, a microwave, a refrigerator, and Direct TV.

You don’t even have to worry about making your bed in the morning, as daily housekeeping is provided.

5.) Fox River Wine Trails, NORTH EAST

The Fox River Wine Trail is a self-guided tour of five of Eastern Wisconsin’s finest wineries. Each Winery offers unique blends, and you’ll enjoy the area’s raw beauty, live music, and delicious food pairings.

Whether spending the day with your significant other or friends and family, it’s the perfect way to have quality conversations.

Start at Captain’s Walk Winery and enjoy the wine pairings with cheese and truffles. Next, hit up Parallel 44 Vineyard & Winery, ideally located on the western shore of Lake Michigan.

Stop #3 is Trout Springs Winery. Try their award-winning wine, Below Zero, and enjoy fine dining in a quaint setting.

LedgeStone Vineyards is next. If you can go on a Thursday, there is music in the vineyard! Finish up at the Kerrigan Brother’s Winery and enjoy the unique flavors of wine.

Where to Stay: Kress Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection

This boutique-style Kress Inn is close to Fox River, the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame, and Lambeau Field.

Not only is it close to all the wineries in the Fox River wine trail, but it’s also close to many shops and restaurants in the area. Each suite has a fridge, microwave, iron, hair dryer, coffee maker, and access to cable television.

For a relaxing and luxurious weekend, choose a whirlpool or fireplace suite!

6.) Door County Wine Trail, NORTH EAST

The Door County Wine Trail features 8 different wineries. Whether you do the wine trail in one day or spread it out over the whole weekend, it’s a fantastic way to sip and sample your way through Northern Wisconsin while still seeing the beautiful vistas.

Start in Door 44 Winery and get a $5 flight to sample a wide variety. If you’re interested in a tour, you must call in advance to reserve your spot.

Next, go to Door Peninsula Winery, which offers daily free tastings. Make sure to try the cherry wine! Harbor Ridge Winery is next, and with a broad, diverse offering, you’re sure to find a wine you enjoy.

The fourth stop is Lautenbach’s Orchard Country Winery. Not only do they have delicious wines and a big market, but it’s also likely that apple blossoms will bloom over Memorial Day weekend!

Red Oak & Simon Creek Vineyard and Winery are the next two stops. Finish with Stone’s Throw Winery and the Von Still Winery for the complete wine trail.

Where to Stay: Square Rigger Harbor Motel

Square Rigger Harbor Motel is a fantastic hotel for an outdoor weekend with a private beach area, lake views, and a grill.

You are close to the wineries on the Door County wine trail and only 22 miles away from the Door County Maritime Museum.

It’s also a great spot if you’re more interested in hiking, fishing, and cycling. Each room at this motel has air conditioning, and some even have a private seating area.

Where to Stay: Coachlite Inn

Only half a mile away from Sister Bay Beach, Coachlite Inn is perfect for couples. This is a comfortable and quiet hideaway with air-conditioned rooms and a shared lounge where you can meet other travelers.

This family-run inn has lush grounds and is within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, mini golf, and, of course, the beach!

Boasting reasonable rates, exceptional cleanliness, and excellent customer service, the Coachlite Inn is a great place to spend Memorial Day weekend.

Central Wisconsin

Get off the beaten track and explore all Central Wisconsin has to offer! There are beautiful parks, fun outdoor adventures, and quaint towns with unique experiences.

Read on to see more of what Central Wisconsin has to offer.

7.) Devil’s Lake State Park, CENTRAL

Devil’s Lake State Park is along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. With close to 30 miles of hiking trails, lakeshore picnic areas, and magnificent views from 500-foot quartzite bluffs, this 360-acre lake is a must-do in Central Wisconsin.

Not only is it the state’s most prominent park (covering 9,400+ acres!), but it’s also got rock formations and jaw-dropping bluffs that you can’t see anywhere else in Wisconsin.

Devil’s Lake State Park has gorgeous swimming beaches and kayak or paddle board opportunities.

If you’re heading there for the first time this Memorial Day weekend, check out the 1-mile Tumbled Rocks trail for fantastic lake views.

Where to Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites at Wisconsin Dells Lake Delton

Suppose you’re not planning on camping overnight at this state park. In that case, the Hampton Inn & Suites at Wisconsin Dells Lake Delton is an excellent alternative.

Each room comes with a tv, fridge, and coffee maker. Save time in the morning and get a to-go breakfast bag or stop at the on-site snack shop before heading out to spend your day at the park!

Unwind after a day of exploring in the heated indoor pool or soak in the stars on the outdoor patio.

You’ll also be close to the Outlets, Dells Shopping Center, and the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater!

8.) Wisconsin Dell’s Boat Tour, Upper Dells CENTRAL

Maybe you’re planning on spending your Memorial Day weekend near Wisconsin Dells. In that case, you should add a boat tour of the Upper Dells to your itinerary!

The section of the river above the dam, known as the Upper Dells, navigates through an awe-inspiring area of cliffs cut by ancient glaciers. A boat tour through the Upper Dells gives you an up-close-and-personal look at these insane cliffs and iconic sandstone formations.

Plus, you’ll get two shore landings— one at Witches Gulch, a narrow canyon, and one at Stand Rock, where a trained dog will leap from the arresting sandstone pillar.

Take a seat at the top of the boat for the best views!

Where to Stay: Black Hawk Motel & Suites

Black Hawk Motel & Suites is a comfortable place to stay over the long weekend. While each room is simple, you can expect good air conditioning and a fantastic, centrally-located stay.

This motel has both an indoor and an outdoor swimming pool (both heated!).

Want to make the most of your time in Wisconsin Dells? This motel also offers all registered guests free general admission to the Tom Foolery Indoor Adventure Park and Timbavati Wildlife Park.

9.) Circus World, CENTRAL

Located at the original Ringling Bros. Circus winter quarters, Circus World encompasses 64 acres, 30 permanent structures, seven winter quarters buildings, and over 260 spectacular wagons.

Not only do you have the chance to see an unbelievable show, but you can also learn all about one of the largest circuses in the United States.

Live shows happen twice daily under the big top tent, and it’s fun for all ages- no kids necessary. Watch trapeze artists, live music, clowns, and jugglers. You’re in for a day of fun!

What better way to celebrate Memorial Day Weekend than by experiencing a unique cultural legacy?

10.) Outdoor Movie Theatre, BIG SKY, Wisconsin Dells, CENTRAL

For a fun movie night to celebrate the long weekend, head to the Big Sky Drive-In Theatre in Wisconsin Dells. In one of the last drive-in theaters in the state, you’ll get two movies for the price of one.

Two full-sized outdoor screens will play double features of first-run movies. Bring cash for your admissions ticket, and get an all-American dinner of homemade sloppy joes, burgers, or movie snacks.

Movies are posted on the website the week before they’re shown!

11.). Shamba Safari, Neshkaro, CENTRAL

Bet you didn’t expect to see a Safari on this list of things to do in Wisconsin!

This family-run business features many animals, including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, lions, and tigers. The central vision for the Safari is to connect humans and animals and foster sustainable agriculture.

Even the name itself is in line with this vision. The word “shamba” is the Swahili word for sustainable agriculture.

The Shamba Safari allows visitors to feed and interact with animals they may have never seen. Swing by and have a unique experience this Memorial Day weekend.

Where to Stay: Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels

Only 20 minutes from the Shamba Safari, Boarders Inn & Suites by Cobblestone Hotels is a clean and comfortable hotel.

It is easy to access to the Safari and is close to various towns, fantastic natural spots, the Waushara country club, and Big Dog Adventure Park.

Complete with an indoor pool and a whirlpool; this is a fantastic spot to hang out for Memorial Day Weekend. You won’t even need to worry about breakfast since it’s provided!

Eastern Wisconsin

Eastern Wisconsin has fun beaches, fairs, and festivals and is a fantastic place to visit. Whether you visit the “Malibu of the Midwest” (Sheboygan) or a quiet town like Oshkosh, Eastern Wisconsin is charming.

Read on for the top three things to do this Memorial Day weekend.

12). Sheboygan Parade, Sheboygan, EAST

You can’t miss the Memorial Day celebration if you will be near Sheboygan during Memorial Day Weekend. It’s starting May 29th at 9:00 am in Downtown Sheboygan, with a ceremony at Fountain Park.

The ceremony features speaker Major Nathan Blackwell and will begin immediately after the parade. This will be a beautiful tribute to veterans and active-duty men and women.

Next on the itinerary? A Brat Fry! No memorial day weekend is complete in Wisconsin— the brat central—without sampling this popular meat.

Where to Stay: Watershed Hotel

Close to both the North Side Municipal Beach and the South Side Municipal Beach, Watershed Hotel is an excellent place to stay while in Sheboygan.

Each room has its own desk, and a continental breakfast is provided. In need of snacks for your memorial day weekend? Look no further than the in-house snack bar!

Overlooking the Sheboygan River, there are multiple beaches nearby. Choose a room with a private balcony and relax in comfort over the holiday weekend.

Where to Stay: Harbor Winds Hotel

Located right off Interstate 43, the Harbor Winds Hotel in Sheboygan is located right off the riverfront. With clean and spacious rooms, you won’t lack much during your stay!

Step out of the hotel and onto a boardwalk with easy access to excellent eateries and Deland Park.

This charming little hotel is one of the best places to stay when visiting the “Malibu of the Midwest,” and guests return year after year.

13.) EAA Aviation Museum, Oshkosh, EAST

This Aviation Museum is a year-round destination. Not only are there 200 historic airplanes but there’s also a highly interactive area for the kids.

With world-class displays and galleries, the EAA Aviation Museum is a must-do for any aviation enthusiast. It’s open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm daily and includes a free shuttle service to Pioneer Airport.