FIVE STOPS ON THE WAY UP NORTH

Camping, boating, fishing and hiking have been on everyone’s mind since cabins were locked, campers were stowed, leaves fell from trees and the lakes iced over. As much as we all love going up north, the trip can be long and maybe a little mind-numbing without new pit stops along the way.

Here’s our list of five top stops to amp up your up-north drive:

  1. Kenosha Public Museum (Kenosha, WI) – Opening at 10am Monday-Saturday, the Kenosha Public Museum is the perfect place to check out the mammoth exhibit, admire fine works of art from names like Picasso and Dali, and scroll through the many digital exhibits offered. To top it off, the museum is FREE.
  2. Potawatomi Hotel & Casino (Milwaukee, WI) – After an hour or two of exploring, you’ll likely have worked up an appetite. Potawatomi offers lunch options ranging from Asian cuisine at RuYi and comfort food at Canal St. Café to the laidback Fire Pit Sports Bar and abundant array of choices at The Buffet. While you’re there, try your hand at a round of poker or test your luck on the slot machines for some extra vacation cash.
  3. Holy Hill (Hubertus, WI) – Best known for its cathedral and shrine, Holy Hill offers guests the chance to admire the church’s architecture while also providing sprawling views of the landscape below. The scenic tower sits atop a 178-step staircase, boasting panoramic views of the northern Kettle Moraine. While tower access is free, donations are accepted for maintenance of the tower.
  4. High Cliff Public Golf Course (Sherwood, WI) – If you’re willing to tack on a couple of hours to your trip, High Cliff Public Golf Course can’t be beat with its lush greenery, expansive fairways and reasonable rates. Whether you prefer 9 or 18 holes, walking or riding, High Cliff is a great way to kick off your vacation.
  5. Bay Beach (Green Bay, WI) – Celebrating its 125th birthday this summer, Bay Beach amusement park is the perfect excursion for family fun, delicious treats and classic thrill rides.  Although entrance is free, there is a nominal fee of $.25 per ticket for rides, and food prices range from $1.25 (for popcorn) to $9.75 (for a whole pizza).

With a couple of strategically planned pit stops, there are plenty of ways to turn the drive into a memorable part of the up-north experience.