Wisconsin is one of the most beautiful states in America to enjoy the magic of fall.  With gently rolling hills, charming family farms and lush green state parks, the landscape of Wisconsin is quaint and beautiful. In fact, visitors to the state often comment that Wisconsin is far prettier than expected.  

You may be thinking my local Wisconsinite bias is showing and you wouldn’t be wrong. After 40+ years with a front-row seat to fall in Wisconsin, I think everyone should experience it. Even Thrillist agreed, putting Wisconsin in their top 10 prettiest states to visit in the fall.   

Have I piqued your interest yet? In today’s post, I will share my picks for the best places to see fall colors in Wisconsin.  So let’s talk all things Wisconsin fall!  

Why Fall Colors in Wisconsin Are So Stunning 

First, let’s talk about why fall colors in Wisconsin are some of the best in the country. A little-known fact about Wisconsin is that it’s one of America’s greenest states. In fact, despite having no national park, Wisconsin ranks in the Top 15 states for overall park coverage. Wisconsin is home to more than 100 state parks, forests, and trails. As a result, all that green space translates to a dazzling show of colors come fall.  When the lush greenery of Wisconsin transforms to warm reds, yellows, and oranges, it is a breathtaking place to visit. In addition, the many scenic bluffs, lakes, and waterfalls in Wisconsin make for an even more exaggerated backdrop come autumn.  

Best Time to See Fall Colors in Wisconsin  

Generally speaking, peak colors in Wisconsin arrive sometime from mid-September through late October. Wisconsin foliage begins turning golden in the north where it’s cooler and slowly expands south. By mid to late September, peak color is likely already arriving in Northern Wisconsin. Typically, peak color in southern Wisconsin arrives around mid to late October.  

The arrival date of peak color to Wisconsin is highly variable and can shift by as much as a few weeks each year. The time of transition to fall color depends on both weather conditions and daylight hours. Seasons of severe weather in Wisconsin such as heavy storms and frost do impact when fall arrives in the state.  

When planning fall getaways in Wisconsin, keep an eye on Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report. The Wisconsin Fall Color Report is an invaluable resource that tracks the progression of fall color in Wisconsin across the entire state.  The best places to see fall color in Wisconsin won’t matter if your timing is off. So keep the fall color report handy! 

Best Fall Getaways in Wisconsin  

Wisconsin foliage is so stunning, it’s becoming a growing fall travel destination for solo explorers, romantic getaways and family travels. If you’re looking for Wisconsin fall vacation ideas, there are no shortage of options. Honestly, there are so many amazing fall getaways in Wisconsin in all corners of the state.  

If this is your maiden voyage to see fall in Wisconsin, I recommend heading to Door County, Wisconsin. Truly, Door County fall colors are post-card perfection like few places in America. First, the golden hues of fall are truly magical against the jagged landscape and crystal blue of Lake Michigan’s shoreline. In addition, there are so many places to see the fall colors in Door County (more on that later). Lastly, with so many area parks, shops and eateries, there are so many Wisconsin fall activities to enjoy.  

Another favorite Wisconsin trip is to see the Lake Geneva fall colors. Lake Geneva is home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in all of Wisconsin. Where white stately mansions sit atop rising cliffs above sparkling lake waters. Taking a stroll along the Geneva Lakeshore Path is a beautiful way to take in the area’s Wisconsin foliage.    

Door County and Lake Geneva are a couple of the most scenic spots fall getaways in Wisconsin, but there are many others. Without further ado, let me share the best places to see fall color in Wisconsin!  

1. The Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine, Hubertus 

For one of the most incredible views in the entire state of Wisconsin, head to Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine. If you can choose one place to see the best fall colors in Wisconsin, Holy Hill is the place to go. Holy Hill is a Roman Catholic Shrine located about a 40-minute drive from Milwaukee in the town of Erin.  The site is one of the highest places in the state thanks to its location atop a former glacier, sitting 1,300 feet above sea level.  

Holy Hill attracts more than half a million tourists annually and for good reason. Visitors to Holy Hill will be wowed by the scenic tree-lined drive, but that’s only the beginning. Visitors can climb the 178 stairs to the top of the tower for seemingly endless views of Wisconsin. After seeing Wisconsin’s fall colors from above, consider walking the grounds. The scenic grounds are a perfect place for a fall stroll to see the Basilica’s many shrines. Additionally, consider staying for a service in the beautiful church afterward.  

A word of warning-Holy Hill is a well-known and much-beloved spot in Wisconsin. I strongly recommend visiting early in the day and on a weekday to avoid obnoxious crowds. I don’t know about you, but I prefer to be out of breath and about to die in a quiet corner without too much of a crowd where possible.  

Website: https://www.holyhill.com/ 

Location: 1525 Carmel Road Hubertus, WI 53033 

2. Potawatomi State Park, Sturgeon Bay  

After years traveling America, I’ve come to fully appreciate just how beautiful Wisconsin’s parks really are. I mean, isn’t the rest of America this green and beautiful? In short, it’s not. Wisconsin is blessed with a natural landscape far more lush and more beautiful than what many other states have to offer.  Visitors will find gorgeous parks across Wisconsin, but the Door County Peninsula is home to many of the state’s best.  

Door County Wisconsin is home to five state and 19 county parks, in addition to many other local parks. I could write an entire article on the best places to see fall colors in Door County alone it’s that pretty. For now, I’ll just share a few favorite places in Door County starting with Potawatomi State Park.  

Potawatomi State Park is located on the southern end of the peninsula in Sturgeon Bay. Potawatomi is beloved by locals who enjoy hiking as the park is home to the eastern terminus of the Ice Age National Scenic Trail as well as a 75-foot observation tower. The observation tower is especially popular in fall when visitors flock for the beautiful vista views of Door County and Green Bay.  

Taking a hike at Potawatomi is one of the best things to do in the fall in Wisconsin. It’s also my #1 spot to see the Door County fall colors.   

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/potawatomi  

Location: 3740 Park Drive, Sturgeon Bay WI 54235 

3. Interstate State Park, St. Croix Falls

On the other end of the state from Door County lies one of Wisconsin’s best parks, Interstate State Park. Interstate State Park is located on Wisconsin’s western side in St. Croix Falls. Designated in 1900, Interstate is Wisconsin’s original state park though the park technically has a footprint both in Wisconsin and Minnesota. Interstate is also considered the western terminus spot of the 1,150-mile Ice Age National Scenic Trail.  

First, Interstate is a great pick if you want to take in the golden hues of fall without 3 million of your best friends. It offers both a stunning backdrop and far thinner crowds than many spots on this list. Secondly, the park is a real stunner to behold. The park surrounds the St. Croix National Scenic Riverway, and is home to unique rock formations, and deep river gorge views. The uniqueness of the park’s landscape was created from years of Ice Age melt sculpting the rocky bluffs the park is known for. Mother Nature did good with this park, friends.  

Some favorite trails in the park include the Pothole and Summit Rock trails where there are observation decks offering views of the bluffs and river below. If hiking isn’t your thing, consider taking a riverboat tour. Visitors can head to Taylors Falls for a tour along the St. Croix River, complete with cool history on the various formations in the park. Whether exploring on foot or by boat, Interstate State Park has one of the most beautiful backdrops to enjoy fall colors in the entire state. And without the insane crowds of say, Devil’s Lake.  

…Oh, did you say, Devil’s Lake? Yeah, about that…*ahem* 

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/interstate 

Location: 1275 WI-35, St. Croix Falls WI 54024 

4. 
   

   Devil’s Lake State Park  

If you ask most locals the best places to see fall colors in Wisconsin, I guarantee you most will say Devil’s Lake. Is Devil’s Lake State Park the prettiest of Wisconsin’s state parks? Quite possibly. Devil’s Lake offers Insta-perfect vista views to the adventurous types who scale the park’s rocky bluffs. Devil’s Lake is the largest park in Wisconsin and is also the most frequently visited. 

Now, for some controversy. Is it my favorite? No. It just isn’t. If you’re like me and prefer your stellar fall views with a side of seclusion, Devil’s Lake may not be your pick. Devil’s Lake has a cult-like following from many, so as not to incur their wrath, I’m including it with a disclaimer.  If visiting Devil’s Lake during the fall, I strongly recommend a weekday trip as the weekends get a little wild.  It just gets a little too crowded for my personal taste. 

Massive crowds aside, Devil’s Lake is a must-see for the best fall colors in Wisconsin. Devil’s Lake is home to some of the most recognized rock bluff images in the entire state.  The cool thing to do when visiting Devil’s Lake is to climb up the bluffs. The sweeping views of the lake from above are next level stunning with the golden hues of autumn.  

I’ve climbed the bluffs a couple times as a clumsy and incompetent hiker. For the non-sure-footed crowd, consider booking a climbing guide, or sticking to the park’s trails. The East Bluff Trail is a popular trail offering overlooks and connection to the park’s most iconic rock formations. Along this trail, hikers will hit Balanced Rock, one of park’s most beloved spots. It also offers some of the most sweeping views of fall in Wisconsin you’ll find anywhere.   

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/devilslake 

Location: S5975 Park Rd Baraboo, WI 53913 

5. Seven Bridges Trail, Grant Park, South Milwaukee   

If you want to check out Wisconsin foliage near Milwaukee, Grant Park is an excellent choice. Grant Park is located in South Milwaukee, just a quick 10-minute drive from downtown Milwaukee. As Grant Park is a local park, there are no fees to visit, and there’s ample, easy parking for visitors.  

Visitors to the park should check out the beloved Seven Bridges Trail. The trail offers a winding and romantic hike along old wooden bridges which ends on the beach of Lake Michigan. The Seven Bridges Trail is just two miles long and is an easy to moderate walk with some stairs throughout.  

Strolling the Seven Bridges Trail as golden leaves fall around you will have you feeling as though you’ve entered another world. With quiet streams, and a generously shaded path including 10 bridges (contrary to the trail’s name), the trail feels like something out of a storybook. Hiking Seven Bridges Trail is one of the most romantic things to do in the fall in Wisconsin. Be still, my heart!   

Website: https://county.milwaukee.gov/EN/Parks/Explore/Trails/Nature-Trails 

Location: 100 E. Hawthorne Ave South Milwaukee WI 53172 

6. Lapham Peak, Kettle Moraine State Forest 

If you’re looking for a great spot to enjoy an autumn hike in Waukesha County, consider heading to Lapham Peak. Lapham Peak is the highest point in Waukesha County, and home to an awesome observation deck.  

Climb to the top of the observation deck if you want those epic panoramic shots for your Insta fans. Do yourself a favor and consult their trail map if you plan on hiking in this beautiful area. There are easy trails throughout the park but also moderate to strenuous trails for those who want to get their hearts pumping.  My crazy trail-running husband is low-key obsessed with Lapham Peak, so I’m adding it to the list on his behalf.     

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/laphampeak 

Location: W329N846 Cty Hwy C Delafield, WI 53018 

7. Cana Island Lighthouse, Baileys Harbor 

My favorite way to experience the explosion of color in autumn is to take in the far-reaching views from above. If you enjoy a bird’s eye view of fall colors as much as I do, then head to Cana Island Lighthouse. The lighthouse itself is gorgeous, but the views from the top are what make it a standout. In addition, Cana Island is located in Bailey’s Harbor which is my personal favorite part of the peninsula.     

The Cana Island Lighthouse is one of 11 lighthouses in Door County but is perhaps the most recognized. Visitors can either wade the causeway waters to the lighthouse or take a short wagon ride over to explore. Tickets are available to the public to ascend the 97 winding stairs to the top deck. Once you reach the top you’ll be treated to views of Wisconsin in the fall.   

For the best fall colors in Door County, it doesn’t get much better than Cana Island Lighthouse.  On the list of best places to see fall color in Wisconsin, the aerial view with the lake is unmatched. 

Website: https://www.co.door.wi.gov/556/Cana-Island-Lighthouse  

Location: 8800 E Cana Island Rd, Baileys Harbor WI 54202 

8. Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve, Grafton 

For my city friends, let’s add another great spot to see Wisconsin foliage near Milwaukee: Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve. Going for a peaceful hike at Lion’s Den is one of my favorite things to do in Wisconsin in fall. Amazingly, the spot offers crazy 100-foot bluff views of Lake Michigan just 23 miles north of Milwaukee. This hidden gem is so unbelievable, it’s hard to believe it’s hidden just outside the city.  

Lion’s Den is packed with shaded trails and undeveloped wilderness leading to the rocky shoreline. First, take in the seemingly endless sparkling blue of Lake Michigan from the trails above the bluffs. Then, stroll the wild prairie trails down to the rocky lakeshore to see the majesty of the bluffs from below. Additionally, did I mention Lion’s Den is free to visit and has an ample parking for visitors? It’s a perfect hassle-free place to enjoy the beauty of fall in Wisconsin.    

Website: https://www.co.ozaukee.wi.us/662/Lions-Den-Gorge-Nature-Preserve 

Location: 511 High Bluff Drive, Grafton WI 53024 

9. Door County Coastal National Scenic Byway

You didn’t think I was done with Door County fall colors, did you? There are so many ways to enjoy the striking beauty of autumn in Wisconsin including going for a scenic drive. If you prefer a relaxing drive over scaling observation towers, then consider a Door County Coastal National Scenic Byway trip! 

To take the drive, take Highway 42 north on the Door County Coastal National Scenic Byway. The drive extends for 66 miles along stunning bluffs, wild dunes, and the bright blue waters of Lake Michigan. The most incredible part is the end, where the road transforms into the curvy turvy Jens Jensen Winding Road. The idyllic road is so adorably improbable, it’s like something out of a storybook. This road is one of the most recognized places in Wisconsin, especially in fall, as the trees explode with color.   

The Jens Jensen Winding Road is the best backdrop for Door County fall colors. It is also however, well known. On the list of best places for fall colors in Wisconsin, this will be the hardest to execute. Good luck getting there without a ton of other cars in your view. For a shot at solitude plan a sunrise ride, and hope the rest of Wisconsin is hung over in bed.   

Website: https://www.travelwisconsin.com/tours/door-county-coastal-national-scenic-byway-299626  

Location: Jens Jensen Road 494 WI-42 Ellison Bay WI 54210  

10. Newport State Park, Ellison Bay 

OK, I’m almost done with Door County fall colors, I swear! Consider this a subpoint to the item above. If you drive the winding Jens Jensen Road in Ellison Bay, consider stopping for a relaxing hike at Newport State Park. While many of the places on this list are well-known, Newport State Park gets ridiculously overlooked. It’s basically the Canyonlands of Wisconsin. It’s an incredible park but gets forgotten about because the other nearby parks are just that stellar. Wisconsin only has one designated wilderness park, and that’s the quaint and peaceful Newport State Park.  

Newport State Park is tucked away near the tip of Door County in Ellison Bay. It’s home to 11 miles of stunning Lake Michigan shoreline and is perfect for a quiet change of pace from the bustle of the mainland. If you want to get a little lost while enjoying the fall colors in Door County, Newport is the place.   

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/newport 

Address: 475 County Hwy NP Ellison Bay, WI 54210 

11. Parnell Tower, Plymouth 

Did I mention I’m a big fan of peeping the fall colors from above? Well, I am, and Parnell Tower is another one of the best observation towers in Wisconsin. The Parnell Tower Trail is a 3-mile loop that begins off the parking lot at County Highway U. One note, the park does require a state park sticker for admission.   

The trail winds through the Kettle Moraine State Forest which explodes with bold color during fall. The trail is considered moderate, with some elevation change and a fair number of steps throughout.  The trail ends at the 60-foot wooden observation tower which is the highest point in the forest. The views from atop the tower on a clear day are so good and are worth the workout to get there.     

Parnell is one of the lesser visited and most underrated on the list of best places for fall color in Wisconsin. 

Address: 7817 Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive Plymouth, WI 53073 

Website: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/kmn/recreation 

12. Lake Geneva, Wisconsin 

The charming town of Lake Geneva, Wisconsin is my last recommended place to see fall colors in Wisconsin.  Lake Geneva is a popular resort town situated on the shores of Geneva Lake in Walworth County. Lake Geneva is well known for its many lakefront mega-mansions. In fact, many refer to the area as the “Newport of the West.” Interestingly, one of the most famous mansions ever built here was Hugh Hefner’s first Playboy resort back in the 1960s. Today, it’s the Grand Geneva Resort and has far less scandal associated with it.  

Lake Geneva fall colors are some of the most beautiful to behold anywhere in Wisconsin. The town is also adorable with many Wisconsin fall activities to enjoy. The area’s famous Shore Path is a 20-mile trail around Geneva Lake. Visitors can bike or walk the trail and take in the luxurious homes along the path. In addition, visitors can stroll the local shops, visit an area winery or take in the vivid scenery on a romantic dinner cruise. If you are considering romantic fall getaways in Wisconsin, Lake Geneva should be high on the list.  

 Website: https://www.visitlakegeneva.com/