10 Short Road Trips From Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin (Racine County)

on

10 Easy Road Trips Near Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin (All Outside Racine County)

If you live in or around Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin, you already know it’s a handy spot just off I‑94. But what if you’ve done all the usual local stuff and you’re ready to hop in the car and explore a little farther? Good news: within about an hour or two, you’ve got beaches, breweries, small‑town charm, lake views, and even Michigan shoreline waiting for you. And yes, every spot on this list is outside Racine County—so you really are getting away. Below are 10 short out‑of‑county road trips from Mount Pleasant that make for fun day trips or easy weekends.

1. Kenosha’s Lakefront & Museums (Kenosha County, WI)

Kenosha is just a quick drive south, but it feels like a mini vacation on the lake. Park once near the harbor and you can walk almost everywhere. Why go: Small‑city vibe, big‑lake views. Things to do:
  • Stroll the HarborPark area and watch the boats in the marina.
  • Ride the old‑school streetcar that loops around the lakefront.
  • Check out the Kenosha Public Museum and the Dinosaur Discovery Museum (great if you’re traveling with kids).
  • Walk the pier to the red North Pier Lighthouse and snap a few photos.
If you time it right, grab an ice cream and sit by the water while the sun drops over Lake Michigan. It’s simple, but it never really gets old.

2. Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward & RiverWalk (Milwaukee County, WI)

Looking for more of a city feel? Head about 30–40 minutes north to Milwaukee. One of the easiest spots to explore is the Historic Third Ward, right next to downtown. Why go: Art, food, and a relaxed city vibe. Things to do:
  • Wander the Milwaukee RiverWalk, a long pedestrian path along the river with public art and plenty of photo spots.
  • Browse the Milwaukee Public Market for local foods, coffee, and treats.
  • Check out small galleries and shops throughout the Third Ward.
If you like trying new restaurants or craft cocktails, this area is packed with options, and it’s still easy to walk around without feeling overwhelmed.

3. Milwaukee Lakefront: Museums, Parks & Skyline Views (Milwaukee County, WI)

Milwaukee’s lakefront is one of the most scenic stretches of shoreline on this part of Lake Michigan. Why go: Big‑city skyline meets open green space. Things to do:
  • Visit the striking white Milwaukee Art Museum with its “wings” that open and close like a giant bird.
  • Walk or bike along Veterans Park and the paved paths next to the lake.
  • Relax on the sand at Bradford Beach on a warm day.
Even if you’re not big on museums, just walking the lakefront with a coffee in hand can make for an easy, low‑stress afternoon.

4. Lake Geneva: Classic Wisconsin Lake Town (Walworth County, WI)

About an hour west of Mount Pleasant, Lake Geneva feels like the definition of “weekend getaway” in southern Wisconsin. Why go: Vacation‑town energy close to home. Things to do:
  • Walk the Shore Path, a public trail that circles the lake and passes historic homes and quiet coves.
  • Book a boat tour for lake views and a bit of local history.
  • Explore downtown shops, fudge and ice cream stops, and casual restaurants.
On summer weekends it can get busy, but that just adds to the fun people‑watching. In fall, the trees around the lake light up with color.

5. Williams Bay & Fontana: Quieter Corners of Geneva Lake (Walworth County, WI)

If you like the idea of Lake Geneva but prefer things a little calmer, aim for the smaller villages around the lake, like Williams Bay and Fontana. Why go: Same lake, fewer crowds. Things to do:
  • Hit the public beach in Williams Bay for a laid‑back swim and picnic.
  • In Fontana, enjoy lakefront parks and access to the Shore Path with less hustle and bustle.
  • Grab a casual meal at a local bar and grill after a day on the water.
It’s the kind of place where you can toss a blanket on the grass, look out at the boats, and lose track of time.

6. New Berlin & Waukesha: Parks, Trails & Suburban Charm (Waukesha County, WI)

Head northwest into Waukesha County and you’ll find rolling hills, parks, and plenty of green space just past the Milwaukee suburbs. Why go: Easy access to nature without going “up north.” Ideas:
  • Explore trails in parks around New Berlin or Waukesha for walking, biking, or a family picnic.
  • Check out local breweries or coffee shops in downtown Waukesha.
  • Look for community events or farmers’ markets, especially in summer and fall.
It’s not as “showy” as the big lake towns, but it’s perfect if you just want a simple day outside.

7. Delafield & Nagawicka Lake: Small Town, Big Scenery (Waukesha County, WI)

A little farther west, the Delafield area gives you that classic Wisconsin mix of lakes, trails, and a cozy downtown. Why go: Compact, walkable, and scenic. Things to do:
  • Grab coffee or lunch in downtown Delafield and browse a few local shops.
  • Visit lakes and nearby parks for paddling, fishing, or just soaking in the view.
  • Drive the back roads around town for rolling‑hill scenery, especially in autumn.
If you’re looking for an easy “date day” or a relaxed family outing, Delafield is a great pick.

8. Holland, Michigan: Beaches, Big Dunes & Dutch Vibes (Ottawa County, MI)

Ready to stretch your legs a bit more? Cross the lake border (by road) into Michigan and aim for Holland, about a 3–3.5 hour drive from Mount Pleasant if traffic cooperates. Why go: Lake Michigan beaches plus a unique Dutch twist. Things to do:
  • Spend the day at Holland State Park, with wide sandy beaches and views of the iconic “Big Red” lighthouse.
  • Stroll around downtown Holland’s shops, cafés, and breweries.
  • If you visit in spring, check out the tulips and Dutch‑themed attractions.
It’s a longer trip, but it’s still doable as a long day, and it makes an excellent overnight getaway.

9. Grand Haven, Michigan: Classic Lake Michigan Beach Town (Ottawa County, MI)

Just north of Holland, Grand Haven has that laid‑back coastal feel that makes you forget you’re still in the Midwest. Why go: Boardwalk, pier, and long sandy beaches. Things to do:
  • Walk the Grand Haven pier out to its twin red lighthouses.
  • Spread a towel on the beach and enjoy the waves and sunshine.
  • Follow the boardwalk along the channel and stop for ice cream, snacks, and shops.
On warm evenings, the sunsets here can be spectacular—worth the drive all by themselves.

10. Saugatuck & Douglas: Art, Dunes & Riverfront Fun (Allegan County, MI)

Another solid Michigan option is Saugatuck and its neighbor Douglas, about 3.5–4 hours from Mount Pleasant depending on your route. Why go: Artsy vibe plus big sand dunes and beaches. Things to do:
  • Head to Saugatuck Dunes State Park for hiking trails through the woods to a quiet stretch of Lake Michigan beach.
  • Wander downtown Saugatuck’s galleries, boutiques, and ice cream spots.
  • Enjoy the riverfront, boat tours, or just sit and watch the water traffic go by.
If you like a mix of nature and artsy small‑town culture, this area hits both.

Tips for Planning Your Mount Pleasant Road Trips

To make the most of these short road trips from Mount Pleasant:
  • Check drive times: Most Wisconsin spots are within about 30–75 minutes. The Michigan towns are better for full days or weekends.
  • Watch the weather: Lakefront stops can feel cooler and windier, even in summer. Bring a light layer.
  • Plan parking: Popular lake towns and beaches can fill up on sunny weekends, so aim to arrive earlier in the day.
  • Mix it up: Rotate between city days (Milwaukee), small‑town lakes (Walworth & Waukesha Counties), and full beach trips (Michigan).
Over time, you’ll figure out your personal favorites. Some people fall in love with the Milwaukee skyline. Others can’t resist the quieter corners of Walworth County or the sand dunes in Michigan.

What Did We Miss? Share Your Favorite Spots

These are just 10 of the best out‑of‑county road trips from Mount Pleasant, Racine County—but there are plenty more waiting just down the highway.
  • Do you have a favorite hidden beach or small town café in Kenosha, Milwaukee, Walworth, Waukesha, Ottawa, or Allegan Counties?
  • Is there a trail, park, or brewery you think deserves a spot on this list?
Drop your ideas, tips, and questions in the comments so other readers can discover them too. And if you know someone in the Mount Pleasant area who’s always saying, “There’s nothing to do around here,” send them this guide. Share this post with friends, family, or your favorite travel buddy—and start planning your next easy road trip out of Racine County.
Location: Georgetown, IN, USA

Comments

Post a Comment