10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips Near Mequon, Wisconsin
Looking for fun
day trips near Mequon, WI that get you out of Ozaukee County for a bit? You’re in the perfect spot. Mequon sits close to some of the best small towns, lakefront beaches, and nature spots in southeast Wisconsin and along Lake Michigan in Michigan.
All of the trips below are outside Ozaukee County, but still close enough for a relaxed drive. Most are perfect for a half-day or full-day adventure.
1. Milwaukee, WI – Classic City Day on the Lakefront
Just a short drive south (around 20–30 minutes depending on where you start),
Milwaukee is the easiest and most obvious road trip from Mequon. Even if you’ve been before, there’s always something new to explore.
- Stroll the Lakefront: Walk or bike along the paved paths near the Milwaukee Art Museum and Veterans Park. On a sunny day, Lake Michigan feels almost like the ocean.
- Explore the Third Ward: Boutique shops, cool coffee spots, and the Milwaukee Public Market for a quick bite.
- Catch a Brewery Tour: From big names to tiny craft spots, Milwaukee lives up to its “Brew City” nickname.
If you love city energy but don’t want a long drive, Milwaukee is your go-to day trip from Mequon.
2. Cedarburg & Grafton Area (Washington County Side) – Historic Charm Just Up the Road
While Mequon is in Ozaukee County, parts of nearby communities stretch into
Washington County, giving you an easy “out-of-county” option that still feels close to home.
Head a bit northwest and you can enjoy:
- Historic Streets & Old Buildings: Wander small downtown streets lined with stone buildings, antique shops, and cozy cafés.
- Seasonal Festivals: Fall harvest events, holiday markets, and art fairs make this area a repeat visit spot.
- Scenic Drives: Country roads, rolling fields, and barns make for a classic Wisconsin backdrop.
It’s an ideal short drive when you want a small-town feel without going far.
3. Holy Hill – Big Views in Washington County
About 40–50 minutes from Mequon,
Holy Hill National Shrine of Mary sits high on one of the highest points in southeast Wisconsin. Even if you’re not visiting for religious reasons, the grounds are worth the trip for the views alone.
- Climb the Tower: On clear days, you can see for miles across farmland, forests, and rolling hills.
- Hiking Trails: Short walks around the grounds give you a peaceful break from daily life.
- Fall Colors: In October, this area explodes in reds and golds. It’s easily one of the best fall road trips near Mequon.
If you’re craving fresh air and big views, Holy Hill is an easy win.
4. Waukesha, WI – Riverfront, Art, and a Walkable Downtown
Drive about 45 minutes southwest and you’ll hit
Waukesha, a lively town with a surprisingly artsy vibe.
- Walk the Riverwalk: The Fox River flows right through town, with paths perfect for a mellow stroll.
- Public Art & Murals: Keep an eye out for colorful murals and sculptures scattered through downtown.
- Local Eats: Grab a burger, tacos, or local pizza and make a mini food tour out of your visit.
If Milwaukee feels too big for your mood, Waukesha offers a laid-back alternative.
5. Lake Geneva, WI – A Resort-Style Getaway
Looking for a mini-vacation without booking a flight?
Lake Geneva in Walworth County is roughly 1.5 hours from Mequon, and it feels like a true escape.
- Lakefront Path: Walk sections of the shore path and peek at historic mansions and lakeside homes.
- Boat Tours: Take a guided cruise to learn about local history and enjoy the water without doing the work.
- Winter or Summer Fun: From beaches and ice cream in July to snow and fireplaces in January, it works year-round.
If you’re asking yourself, “Where can I go for a fun weekend trip from Mequon?” Lake Geneva should be on your list.
6. Sheboygan, WI – Surf, Sand, and the “Malibu of the Midwest”
Head about an hour north along Lake Michigan to reach
Sheboygan County. Sheboygan has built a reputation as a freshwater surf town.
- Beaches: North and South beaches offer wide stretches of sand perfect for a walk, picnic, or just watching the waves.
- Surfing Culture: Yes, people actually surf here, especially in fall and winter when the waves pick up.
- Lakeside Walks & Parks: Bring a light jacket—Lake Michigan can feel cool even on warm days.
If you love the water,
Sheboygan makes a great day trip from Mequon for beach time without flying to the coasts.
7. Kohler & Kohler-Andrae State Park – Nature Meets Luxury
Just south of Sheboygan, you’ll find the village of
Kohler and the nearby
Kohler-Andrae State Park. From Mequon, it’s about a 1–1.25 hour drive.
- Kohler-Andrae State Park: Boardwalk trails through dunes, pine forests, and long stretches of Lake Michigan shoreline.
- Village of Kohler: Upscale shops, spa options, and restaurants if you want a more polished experience.
- Camping or Day Use: Come for a quick hike or spend the whole day exploring trails and beaches.
If you’re looking for a
nature-filled road trip near Mequon, this one balances comfort and the great outdoors nicely.
8. Hartford, WI – Auto History and Small-Town Vibes
About 45–55 minutes from Mequon,
Hartford in Washington County offers a low-key, interesting day out—especially if you’re into cars or planes.
- Auto Heritage & Museums: Learn about transportation history and see classic vehicles up close.
- Nearby Recreation: Lakes and parks around Hartford give you options for fishing, kayaking, or simple picnics.
- Classic Wisconsin Downtown: Think diners, taverns, and friendly locals.
If you’ve been wondering, “What are some underrated road trips near Mequon?”—Hartford definitely qualifies.
9. Muskegon, MI – A Bigger Lake Michigan Adventure
Ready to cross state lines? Hop on the Lake Express ferry from Milwaukee (seasonal) and head to
Muskegon, Michigan. While it takes planning, it’s a fun way to turn a simple day trip into something that feels like a true getaway.
- Wide Sand Beaches: Muskegon’s Lake Michigan beaches are long, sandy, and perfect for swimming or sunbathing in summer.
- Dunes & Parks: Nearby parks offer hiking, dune climbs, and sunset views over the lake.
- Family-Friendly: Boardwalks, playgrounds, and casual places to eat make it easy with kids.
If you’re craving a change of scenery but still want to stay in the Great Lakes region, Muskegon is a solid choice.
10. Silver Lake Sand Dunes, MI (Oceana County) – A Little Taste of the Desert
Head a bit north of Muskegon into
Oceana County, Michigan, and you’ll find the famous
Silver Lake Sand Dunes. It’s a longer adventure from Mequon—best as a weekend trip—but worth every mile.
- Off-Road Fun: Rent a dune buggy or take a guided tour across huge, rolling sand dunes.
- Unique Landscape: Standing on the dunes with the lake in the distance feels like you’re in another world.
- Beach & Town: Combine dune time with a visit to nearby small towns, ice cream stops, and lakeside picnics.
If you want one truly “wow” experience within driving distance of Mequon, this is it.
Tips for Planning Your Mequon Road Trips
To make the most of these
road trips near Mequon, Wisconsin, keep a few simple tips in mind:
- Check Drive Times: Some spots are under an hour; others are better as overnight trips.
- Pack Smart: Layers, walking shoes, water, and snacks go a long way—especially near the lake where temps can drop fast.
- Watch the Seasons: Summer and fall are prime time, but winter trips can be magical too if you’re prepared.
Road tripping from Mequon doesn’t have to be complicated. With so many counties and lakeside towns nearby, you can pick a direction and find something new almost every weekend.
Share Your Favorite Road Trips from Mequon
Have you visited any of these places? Do you have another favorite
day trip from Mequon that should be on this list?
Drop your ideas, experiences, and tips in the comments so other travelers can discover them too. And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends and family who are looking for easy, fun getaways near Mequon, Wisconsin.
The more we share, the more great little spots we all get to enjoy.
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