10 Fun Things To Do In And Around Sheboygan, Wisconsin
Looking for a laid–back getaway on the shores of Lake Michigan?
Sheboygan, Wisconsin is a small city with a big personality. From surfing (yes, surfing!) to bratwurst and lakefront sunsets, there’s a lot to love here.
Whether you’re planning a weekend road trip from Milwaukee or Chicago, or you’re just curious about this cozy corner of Sheboygan County, this guide will walk you through
10 of the best things to do in and near Sheboygan.
1. Catch Waves at North Beach – The “Malibu of the Midwest”
Yes, you read that right. People come to Sheboygan to
surf.
On windy days, especially in fall, you’ll see surfers riding the waves at
North Beach and nearby spots along the lakefront. The cold water and steady winds have earned Sheboygan the nickname
“Malibu of the Midwest.”
Even if you’re not ready to hop on a board, this beach is still worth a visit:
- Watch local surfers and paddleboarders
- Walk the sandy shoreline
- Enjoy sunrise views over Lake Michigan
If you do want to try surfing, check out local surf shops for rentals and lessons. Bring a wetsuit though—Lake Michigan stays chilly most of the year.
2. Stroll the Sheboygan Riverfront and Harbor
The
Sheboygan riverfront is one of the city’s most relaxing spots. It’s a great place for an easy walk, a casual date night, or a family evening out.
Along the river and harbor area you’ll find:
- Marinas filled with sailboats and fishing boats
- Riverfront restaurants and bars with outdoor seating
- Walking paths perfect for a slow stroll
On a warm summer night, grabbing an ice cream and watching the boats come in feels like a mini vacation. If you like being on the water, you can also look into
fishing charters or
boat tours that head out onto Lake Michigan.
3. Explore Kohler-Andrae State Park’s Dunes and Beaches
About 10–15 minutes south of Sheboygan,
Kohler-Andrae State Park is one of the most beautiful stretches of shoreline in Wisconsin.
Here you’ll find:
- Long, sandy beaches on Lake Michigan
- Boardwalks winding through sand dunes
- Miles of hiking trails through woods and along the water
- Campgrounds if you want to stay overnight
If you’ve ever wanted to walk along windswept dunes without leaving the Midwest, this is the place. I still remember my first early-morning hike here—low fog over the dunes, the sound of waves, and hardly anyone else around. It felt a lot farther from home than it really was.
Don’t forget:
- A light jacket (the lake breeze can be cooler than you expect)
- Sand-friendly shoes
- A state park pass or daily admission fee
4. Visit the John Michael Kohler Arts Center
Right in downtown Sheboygan, the
John Michael Kohler Arts Center is a must-see, even if you don’t normally think of yourself as an “art person.”
This isn’t a stuffy museum. Displays often feature:
- Bold, colorful contemporary art
- Interactive exhibits
- Unique installations from self-taught artists
The center is known for its focus on
artist-built environments—spaces that feel like stepping into someone’s imagination. You can also find family programs and events throughout the year, making it a good stop if you’re visiting Sheboygan with kids.
Plus, it’s a great rainy-day activity when the weather doesn’t cooperate with your beach plans.
5. Sample Brats and Local Eats in “The Bratwurst Capital of the World”
Sheboygan proudly calls itself the
Bratwurst Capital of the World, and honestly, once you taste the local brats, you’ll understand why.
Here’s what to look for:
- Grilled Sheboygan-style brats on a hard roll
- Local brat fries and summer cookouts
- Old-school taverns and diners serving German-influenced comfort food
If you can, time your visit during a local brat or food festival—sometimes you’ll find live music, beer tents, and that unmistakable smell of grilled sausage drifting through town.
Even if you’re just passing through, grabbing a brat for lunch is one of the most “Sheboygan” things you can do.
6. Enjoy Family Fun at Bookworm Gardens
Traveling with kids? Don’t skip
Bookworm Gardens, a storybook-themed botanical garden that feels like it jumped out of a children’s book.
Every corner is inspired by classic and modern kids’ stories:
- Little structures and play areas themed around favorite books
- Colorful flowers and plants arranged by story or theme
- Spaces designed for reading, exploring, and imagining
Even as an adult, it’s hard not to smile when you walk through here. It’s educational, but it doesn’t feel like “learning time” for kids—it just feels fun.
Hours are often seasonal, so it’s smart to check before you go, especially in spring and fall.
7. Walk the Sheboygan Breakwater and Lighthouse
If you like lake views, photos, and a bit of adventure, head to the
Sheboygan breakwater and lighthouse.
You can walk out along the concrete breakwater, with Lake Michigan on one side and the harbor on the other. At the end, you’ll see the bright-colored lighthouse that shows up in a lot of Sheboygan photos.
Tips:
- Wear sturdy shoes—parts of the breakwater can be uneven
- Visit near sunrise or sunset for the best light
- Watch the waves; on rough days, water can splash over the sides
On calm days, it’s a peaceful walk with a cool perspective on the shoreline. On windy days, it can feel wild and exciting.
8. Play a Round of Golf at World-Class Courses Nearby
If you’re a golfer, Sheboygan County is a bit of a hidden gem. Just a short drive away, you’ll find some of the most talked-about courses in the Midwest, including several in the village of Kohler.
Near Sheboygan you can:
- Tee off at Whistling Straits (host of major championships)
- Play other Kohler-area courses known for beautiful lake and countryside views
- Practice on more casual local courses if you’re just starting out
These courses can book up, especially on weekends and during big events, so it’s worth reserving your tee time early if golf is a key part of your trip.
Even if you don’t play, just driving through the rolling landscape around these courses gives you a feel for the area’s natural beauty.
9. Discover Local History at the Sheboygan County Historical Museum
To understand Sheboygan a little deeper, stop by the
Sheboygan County Historical Museum.
You’ll find:
- Exhibits on local history and early settlers
- Historic buildings moved to the grounds, like old homes or structures
- Rotating displays that highlight different parts of Sheboygan’s story
It’s a good way to spend a couple of hours, especially if you like learning how a place grew into what it is today. You might walk out knowing why Sheboygan looks and feels the way it does now—its industry, its people, and its strong traditions.
10. Relax at Deland Park and the Lakefront
If you just want to slow down,
Deland Park is one of the nicest spots in Sheboygan to do it.
Right on the shores of Lake Michigan, this park offers:
- Green space for picnics and tossing a frisbee
- Beach access and walking paths
- Views of the lake, harbor, and sometimes kite surfers or sailboats
You can bring a blanket, grab some takeout from a local spot, and just enjoy the breeze and the sound of the water. Sometimes the simplest activities end up being the most memorable.
Planning Your Sheboygan Getaway
A few quick tips if you’re planning a trip to
Sheboygan, Wisconsin:
- Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for beach days, surfing, and outdoor fun. Fall can be especially beautiful with changing leaves and big lake waves.
- Getting there: Sheboygan is about an hour north of Milwaukee and around two and a half hours from Chicago by car.
- What to pack: Layers (lake breezes can be cool), comfortable walking shoes, and a camera or smartphone for those lakefront shots.
Whether you’re into art, outdoor adventures, family attractions, or just good bratwurst and lake views, Sheboygan offers a relaxed, friendly slice of Wisconsin life.
What Would You Do in Sheboygan?
Have you been to Sheboygan or somewhere else in Sheboygan County? Did you:
- Try surfing on Lake Michigan?
- Visit Kohler-Andrae State Park?
- Find an amazing bratwurst stand the rest of us should know about?
I’d love to hear your tips and stories.
Drop a comment with your favorite things to do in Sheboygan, or share what you’re most excited to try on your next trip.
And if you know someone planning a Wisconsin road trip, go ahead and
share this guide with them—it might help them discover their next favorite small city on the lake.
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