3 Wisconsin Destinations for Small Town Romance
The joy of exploring Wisconsin’s small towns is that no two are alike – each destination has its own personality, its own unique charm. But if there’s one quality they all share, it’s that they’re the kinds of places where the world moves a little bit slower – where there’s always time to disconnect from the hustle and bustle, and reconnect with the one you love.
So whether you’re looking for a place to pamper yourselves, to get away from it all, or to just spend some quality time together, you’ll find it all (and more!) on a visit to these charming small towns.
Kohler
Treat yourselves to a luxurious retreat in Kohler, home to one of Wisconsin’s premier destination resorts, The American Club. Polished grounds and a stunning red brick façade welcome guests to the historic property, where old-world charm and unmatched hospitality reign supreme.
Settle in and make yourselves comfortable, for all the makings of a romantic getaway are available on-site and at your fingertips: world-class dining, championship golf on one of four courses, and spa services at the elegant Kohler Waters Spa. Don a plush robe and feel stress melt away as you and your partner enjoy a treatment from their Spa Two-gether range, a selection of services designed with couples in mind.
Get a taste of Kohler’s unique history with dinner at The Wisconsin Room, a former dining hall for immigrant workers of the Kohler Co. turned upscale restaurant serving seasonal, farm-fresh dishes. Or, enjoy tranquil views of Wood Lake with a table for two by the window at Cucina, a go-to spot for traditional Italian favorites and home to the area’s only raw oyster bar.
Add an extra indulgence to your weekend by visiting during one of The American Club’s food-focused events. In February, your sweetie will love sampling treats at In Celebration of Chocolate, a full weekend packed with tastings, demonstrations, and chocolate-inspired pairings. In October, join in for the popular Kohler Food & Wine Experience, an annual culinary celebration featuring interactive events and seminars hosted by celebrity chefs and industry experts.
Spring Green
It was Frank Lloyd Wright’s love for Southwest Wisconsin – it’s rolling hills, scenic rivers, and unspoiled landscapes – that inspired him to return to his native land and build Taliesin, Wright’s personal estate and one of the great architectural wonders of our time. What better way to celebrate your own love story than by enjoying dinner on the property, an elaborate multi-course meal showcasing fresh ingredients grown on Wright’s beloved grounds.
In addition to regular guided tours of the estate, Taliesin hosts a series of intimate dinners, where you’ll experience firsthand the ambience of Wright’s own studio. Step inside the dimly lit room, relax with your sweetheart over expertly prepared drinks and dishes, and enjoy what will undoubtedly be an unforgettable date night.
But there’s more to discover in Spring Green – just a few miles from Taliesin, tucked away in the woods, is American Players Theatre. Their claim to fame? An incredible outdoor stage, perched at the top of a hill and bursting with natural charm, where classical plays are performed each spring and summer. For the full APT experience, pack a picnic dinner to share at a table on the grounds, before making the trek up the wooded path to enjoy a show under the stars.
Viroqua
If you and your partner love trying new foods together, venture off the beaten path to Viroqua to delight in one of Wisconsin’s hidden gems. Located in the heart of the scenic Driftless Region, Viroqua has become known among foodies for a blossoming dining scene grounded in the use of local, sustainable ingredients.
One restaurant leading the charge is the Driftless Café, a cozy neighborhood spot serving a rotating menu of some of the area’s most innovative farm-to-table dishes. To sample the variety the Driftless has to offer, stop in for a dinner date and share a selection of small plates, cheese, and charcuterie.
For lodging that’s sure to rekindle the spark, head north for a weekend of romantic seclusion at Percheron Paradise. Built exclusively for couples, this adults-only escape offers a small number of private chalets and one remote bungalow, each nestled in the hills and perfect for spending one-on-one time together. Whether you spend your days curled up in front of the crackling fire, relaxing in the oversized whirlpool tub, or walking hand-in-hand through the peaceful surrounding woods, you’ll find you have everything you need to fully focus on the two of you.
For more ideas on where to get away with your sweetie, check out these 4 Wisconsin B&B’s for Small Town Charm or browse our romantic getaways!