10 Short Road Trips from Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin for Quick Getaways

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10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips Near Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin

If you live in or around Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, you already know it’s a cozy spot with a small-town feel and quick access to big-city fun. But what if you want to hop in the car, leave Waukesha County behind, and explore something new for the day? You’re in luck. Within about an hour’s drive, you’ll find lakes, lighthouses, farm fields, breweries, beaches, and even a castle-looking estate or two. Below are 10 short road trips near Menomonee Falls in the surrounding counties of Dodge, Jefferson, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Racine, Walworth, and Washington. Each one is perfect for a half-day or full-day escape—no overnight stay required (unless you want one!).

1. Milwaukee’s Lakefront & Milwaukee Art Museum (Milwaukee County)

Drive time from Menomonee Falls: about 25–30 minutes When people think of “things to do near Menomonee Falls,” Milwaukee usually tops the list—and for good reason. The Milwaukee lakefront is one of the most scenic spots in southeastern Wisconsin. What to do:
  • Stroll along Lake Michigan at Veterans Park or Lakeshore State Park.
  • Visit the iconic Milwaukee Art Museum with its wing-like “brise soleil” that opens and closes.
  • Walk or bike the paved trails right along the water.
  • Grab coffee or a snack at one of the cafes along the lakefront.
If you time it right, you can catch the sunrise over the lake. It feels like standing at the ocean, but it’s only a short drive from home.

2. Historic Third Ward & Milwaukee Public Market (Milwaukee County)

Drive time: about 25–30 minutes If you prefer food, shopping, and people-watching over nature trails, head to Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward. It’s a lively warehouse district that’s been turned into one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. Highlights:
  • Milwaukee Public Market for local foods, fresh produce, and handmade treats.
  • Boutiques, art galleries, and small shops on walkable streets.
  • Plenty of restaurants, from casual tacos to sit-down dinners.
  • Seasonal events, outdoor markets, and live music.
It’s the kind of place where you can wander without a plan—just follow whatever smells good or looks interesting.

3. Cedarburg’s Charming Downtown & Wineries (Ozaukee County)

Drive time: about 35–40 minutes Step into a storybook. That’s what it feels like when you roll into Cedarburg, a historic town north of Milwaukee in Ozaukee County. Stone buildings, a gentle river, and old mill shops make it feel like a mini vacation. Don’t miss:
  • Downtown Cedarburg with its antique shops, candy stores, and local boutiques.
  • Cedar Creek Winery in an old mill building, offering tastings and local wines.
  • Walking the bridge over Cedar Creek for classic photo spots.
  • Seasonal festivals like Strawberry Fest or Wine & Harvest Fest.
If you like slower-paced weekends, Cedarburg is an easy, relaxing day trip from Menomonee Falls.

4. Port Washington’s Lighthouse & Lake Michigan Views (Ozaukee County)

Drive time: about 40–45 minutes Want a coastal vibe without leaving Wisconsin? Head to Port Washington. Its pretty harbor and lighthouse give off serious New England energy. Top things to check out:
  • Walk out toward the Port Washington Breakwater Lighthouse for lake views.
  • Explore the marina and harbor area—great for photos and boat-watching.
  • Browse the downtown shops and grab fresh fish or ice cream.
  • Fish from the pier or simply sit and watch the waves roll in.
On a sunny day, the water looks bright blue, and you might forget you’re only about 40 minutes from Menomonee Falls.

5. Holy Hill Basilica & Scenic Kettle Moraine Views (Washington County)

Drive time: about 25–30 minutes One of the most stunning viewpoints near Menomonee Falls sits just over the Waukesha County line in Washington County: Holy Hill Basilica. Why go:
  • Climb the tower (seasonal) for sweeping views of rolling hills and forests.
  • Walk the peaceful grounds and wooded paths.
  • Drive the winding country roads nearby for a classic fall-color tour.
Even if you’re not there for religious reasons, the architecture and scenery alone make this a must-see stop. In autumn, it’s one of the best leaf-peeping trips in the area.

6. Lapham Peak Unit – Kettle Moraine State Forest (Jefferson County side)

Drive time: about 35–40 minutes The Kettle Moraine State Forest – Lapham Peak Unit stretches across a couple of counties, and you can dip into the Jefferson County area for hiking, nature, and big-sky views. Things to do:
  • Hike or walk easy-to-moderate trails through woods and rolling hills.
  • Climb the Lapham Peak observation tower for views that stretch for miles.
  • In winter, enjoy groomed cross-country ski trails (if you’re visiting in colder months).
It’s a simple, quiet escape when you need fresh air and tall trees instead of traffic and screens.

7. Lake Geneva’s Beach, Boat Tours & Downtown (Walworth County)

Drive time: about 55–65 minutes If you’re up for a slightly longer day trip, Lake Geneva in Walworth County is one of the most popular road trips from Menomonee Falls. Fun options:
  • Walk the Lake Geneva Shore Path and peek at historic mansions along the water.
  • Take a guided boat tour to learn the stories behind the big estates.
  • Kick back at Riviera Beach in summer.
  • Shop, eat, and people-watch in the walkable downtown.
It’s touristy, yes—but there’s a reason. Lake Geneva feels like a classic Midwestern resort town, and it works for couples, friend groups, or a family outing.

8. Racine’s North Beach & Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture (Racine County)

Drive time: about 50–60 minutes Head southeast toward Racine for a different slice of Lake Michigan. Here, you’ll find a wide sandy beach plus some cool architecture tucked around town. What to explore:
  • North Beach—a long, sandy public beach that’s great for swimming, sandcastles, or just lounging.
  • Grab a famous Racine kringle, a local Danish pastry, from one of the well-known bakeries.
  • Drive by or tour Frank Lloyd Wright–designed buildings, like the SC Johnson campus (check for tour availability ahead of time).
If you have kids, the water and sand alone will keep them busy. If you’re more into history and design, the architecture adds a fun twist to your visit.

9. Horicon Marsh – Wildlife, Trails & Birdwatching (Dodge County)

Drive time: about 55–65 minutes Need a true escape into nature? Point your car toward Dodge County and the massive Horicon Marsh, one of the largest freshwater cattail marshes in the country. Why it’s worth the drive:
  • Miles of easy trails and boardwalks through marshland and prairie.
  • Excellent birdwatching, especially during spring and fall migrations.
  • Guided boat tours or paddling options, depending on season.
  • Visitor center displays that explain how the marsh formed and why it matters.
If you’ve ever wanted to hear sandhill cranes calling at sunset or watch huge flocks of geese lift off the water, this is the place.

10. Old World Wisconsin – Step Back in Time (Jefferson County)

Drive time: about 40–45 minutes In the countryside of Jefferson County, Old World Wisconsin brings 19th-century immigrant life to life with historic buildings and costumed interpreters. What you’ll experience:
  • Walk through historic farmsteads and old village buildings.
  • See demonstrations like blacksmithing, cooking, or farming (seasonal).
  • Learn how different immigrant groups—from Germany, Norway, Poland, and more—shaped Wisconsin.
It’s a fun mix of museum and outdoor adventure. Kids love the hands-on parts, and adults usually end up surprised by how much they learn.

Tips for Planning Your Menomonee Falls Road Trips

To make these short road trips from Menomonee Falls even smoother, keep a few simple tips in mind:
  • Check hours ahead: Some places, like museums or historic sites, have seasonal hours.
  • Pack a small bag: Toss in water, snacks, sunscreen, and maybe a light jacket—Wisconsin weather likes to change its mind.
  • Think about timing: Weekdays can be quieter; weekends sometimes offer events and festivals.
  • Mix and match: Pair a nature stop with a food stop—for example, Holy Hill plus a meal in Cedarburg on the way home.

Ready to Hit the Road from Menomonee Falls?

Living in Menomonee Falls puts you in a sweet spot. In under an hour, you can go from your driveway to:
  • Lake Michigan beaches and lighthouses
  • Quiet marshes and forest trails
  • Historic downtowns and wineries
  • Architectural landmarks and museums
Which of these 10 out-of-county road trips near Menomonee Falls will you try first? Have you already visited any of these spots—Cedarburg, Lake Geneva, Holy Hill, or Racine’s beach? I’d love to hear your experiences and any hidden gems you’ve found along the way. Share this post with friends or family who live in Menomonee Falls (or nearby) and are always saying, “There’s nothing to do around here.” And please drop a comment with:
  • Your favorite quick road trip from Menomonee Falls
  • Any can’t-miss restaurants or stops along these routes
  • Ideas for other nearby counties to explore
Your ideas might inspire someone else’s next weekend adventure.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

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