A weekly column written by the staff of Discover Wisconsin highlights things to do and see throughout the State of Wisconsin, and is made available for publication to members of the Wisconsin Newspaper Association. The column is accompanied by photos for use in print and online. The Discover Wisconsin logo can be downloaded here.
It’s cooling off in Wisconsin, but that doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! There are so many places to experience fall foliage in Wisconsin, and we’re here to fill you in on the best drives to see the tapestry of fall colors that Wisconsin has to show off.
Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
Starting off in southeast Wisconsin, the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive takes you on a 115-mile journey through 6 counties of glacially-formed landscapes, lakes, and thick forests filled with fall colors. Along this drive, you can find historic sites, amazing views, and plenty of space for recreational activities. There are also a variety of trails to trek if you’re looking to get some exercise along the way!
Wisconsin’s Lake Superior Byways
Arguably Wisconsin’s favorite, the Wisconsin Lake Superior Scenic Byway winds along the southern shoreline of Lake Superior. This 70-mile drive will take you along beaches, through forests, and provide you with breathtaking views of Lake Superior. There are plenty of places to stop along the way, including Bayfield, Washburn, Cornucopia, and more. These small towns come with loads of history, good food, and great people. In late September, the trees along this scenic byway will transform from green to a variety of red, orange, burgundy, and gold, providing stunning views for you to enjoy along the drive. For more information on the Lake Superior Scenic Byway, be sure to watch ‘Scenic Byways of Wisconsin’s Great Lakes’ on Discover Wisconsin.
The Great River Road Scenic Byway
Last but not least, The Great River Road Scenic Byway serves as a Wisconsin classic when it comes to scenic drives. This 250-mile byway winds along the Mississippi River and goes through over 30 river towns. The colors along this scenic byway burst in the fall, providing some of the best views of fall foliage in Wisconsin. Many of these towns are the oldest in the entirety of the Midwest, so be ready to get your history on! This drive isn’t just a history lesson though, it’s a place for foodies, wine maniacs, outdoor enthusiasts, and the easygoing alike. If you’re looking for the best places to visit along The Great River Road, be sure to check out our ‘The Wisconsin Great River Road – An All American Road’ , where we highlight some of our favorite destinations along the scenic byway.
These are just a few of the many scenic drives to take this fall in Wisconsin – Show us your favorite using the #DiscoverWisconsin and tag us in your social media posts @discoverwisconsin !
Megan Christian hosts the nation’s longest-running tourism TV show, Discover Wisconsin. Watch the show Saturdays at 10 a.m. on Bally Sports Wisconsin or online at DiscoverWisconsin.com. Follow Discover Wisconsin on Facebook (facebook.com/discoverwisconsin), Instagram (instagram.com/discoverwisconsin), and TikTok (tiktok.com/discoverwisconsin).
