Explore the Hidden Gems of the Midwest, Rich in Freshwater Adventures

From Milwaukee to the scenic shores of Lake Michigan and the rugged beauty of Lake Superior, Wisconsin proudly boasts its title as the nation’s ‘Fresh Coast.’ Here, exciting adventures await you around every corner.

Imagine this: Surfing on chilly waters, uncovering ancient shipwrecks, scaling dunes, and diving from cliffs. Enjoying serene beaches and chasing waterfalls while soaking in the stunning northern lights. Sure, you could fly over Wisconsin, but that would mean missing out on all the incredible experiences on and near the water.

Here’s how to make the most of a day—or even a few—on the Fresh Coast.

Discover waterfront art in Milwaukee

Housing approximately 30,000 pieces of art, the Milwaukee Art Museum itself stands as the true masterpiece. Resembling a bird poised to land, its Burke Brise Soleil, or 'wings,' unfurl and retract twice daily, spanning an impressive 217 feet, and fluttering at noon. Nestled by Lake Michigan, visitors can explore the scenic paths and gardens, where every view unveils fresh insights into art, architecture, and nature. Inside, the museum dazzles with works by O’Keeffe, Rembrandt, Monet, Picasso, Warhol, and Rothko.

Catch waves during a storm in Sheboygan

Often dubbed the 'Malibu of the Midwest,' Sheboygan offers a surfing experience that even Malibu can't comprehend, especially when it comes to winter winds on Lake Michigan. Located just north of Milwaukee, Sheboygan's surfing season technically lasts all year, with the prime waves rolling in from August to April. Dedicated surfers brave January’s 30º F temperatures and 25 mph winds, and even in September, a wetsuit is a must for comfort.

If you prefer not to test your buoyancy in the Great Lakes’ freshwater, head to the beaches for some exhilarating spectating. On a breezy morning, check out North Beach or Kohler-Andrae State Park for a front-row seat to Sheboygan’s stunning displays.

Search for lighthouses and shipwrecks throughout Door County

Boasting nearly 300 miles of coastline, Door County features one of the longest shorelines of any county in the U.S. You can easily visualize it—it resembles the thumb of Wisconsin's iconic hand shape.

The entire region is part of the Niagara Escarpment, a prehistoric rock formation that extends all the way to the famous New York waterfall. The rugged cliffs make the waters particularly hazardous, earning Door County the ominous nickname: Death’s Door. Approximately 250 shipwrecks have been recorded here, with about 25 of them easily reachable through diving or clear-bottom kayak tours.

For those who prefer to stay on solid ground, Door County boasts 11 lighthouses—the highest number of any county in the U.S. Be sure to visit Cana Island Lighthouse in Baileys Harbor and Eagle Point Lighthouse in Peninsula State Park at the very least.

Pursue waterfalls in Marinette

While Wisconsin is home to many waterfalls, Marinette County stands out with 15 of its own, making it an ideal location for a waterfall expedition. A $5 day pass to Marinette County Parks provides access to most falls, all within an hour’s drive, many requiring just a short hike to see the stunning cascades. Eighteen Foot Falls and Long Slide Falls in Marinette County Forest, along with Strong Falls at Goodman County Park, are highlights, although the choice depends on your hiking boots' durability.

After your waterfall adventure, you’re less than an hour away from Green Bay—perfect for a waterfront toast and some essential cheese curds.

Kayak Through the Apostle Islands

There's a growing movement to designate the Apostle Islands as Wisconsin's first national park, which speaks volumes about what to expect from this stunning national lakeshore. The 22 islands lining 12 miles of coastline offer a Caribbean-like vibe, especially where sandy beaches transition to towering cliffs and the water glistens in shades of turquoise. Join a kayak tour from Bayfield or venture out on your own to explore dark coastal caves, lush forests, or even paddle inland through rivers and wetlands.

Another must-do here is the boat tour—the Grand Tour, specifically. Over the course of about 2.5 hours, your captain will guide you through 55 miles of breathtaking scenery, revealing why these islands are often referred to as the 'jewels of Lake Superior.'

Camp on Madeline Island

While Madeline Island is technically the largest of the Apostle Islands, it falls outside the national lakeshore boundaries and offers a uniquely different adventure.

A 20-minute ferry ride from Bayfield takes you to this island haven, where nature intertwines with art and convenient amenities. One moment, you could be camping at Big Bay State Park and hiking along the rugged shores of Lake Superior, and the next, enjoying a Spotted Cow at Tom’s Burned Down Cafe (or perhaps savoring sophisticated cocktails at the Inn on Madeline Island.).

Discover Frog Bay Tribal National Park

Located just beyond Bayfield on the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa reservation, the nation’s first tribal national park, Frog Bay Tribal National Park, spans just 175 acres but offers significant value. This park represents a vital movement, as its designation helps permanently protect a substantial area of vulnerable boreal forest along the shores of Lake Superior.

Featuring a 1.7-mile rustic trail network with interpretive signs in both English and Ojibwe, this destination encourages contemplation and appreciation rather than strenuous exercise. It’s truly a lovely location—especially one that you won't see from the sky.