10 Easy Out-of-County Road Trips From Sheboygan, Wisconsin
If you’re based in Sheboygan and itching for a quick escape, you’re in luck. Within about an hour or two, you can hit beaches, lighthouses, rolling farm country, quirky small towns, and even a Lake Michigan sunset on “the other side.”
This guide focuses on
short, out-of-county road trips from Sheboygan into nearby counties, including:
All of these are outside Sheboygan County, and each trip offers something different—perfect for a Saturday drive, a lazy Sunday, or a last‑minute day off.
1. Picnic and Bluff Views at Harrington Beach State Park (Ozaukee County, WI)
About 25 miles south of Sheboygan,
Harrington Beach State Park feels like a mini coastal getaway. It’s in Ozaukee County, and it’s one of the easiest (and prettiest) road trips you can take.
Why go:
You get over a mile of Lake Michigan shoreline, peaceful forest trails, and dramatic limestone bluffs—without the long drive up north.
What to do:
- Walk the Lakeview Trail along the bluffs for big-sky lake views.
- Spread out a blanket for a simple picnic right above the water.
- Check out the old quarry lake for a quiet, tucked‑away feel.
On warm days, I like to bring camp chairs and just sit by the water. The waves and the breeze almost feel like the ocean, only a short drive from Sheboygan.
Pro tip: Bring a light jacket, even in summer. The lake breeze can be cool.
2. Historic Charm and River Walks in Cedarburg (Ozaukee County, WI)
Cedarburg, also in Ozaukee County, is about a 45‑minute drive from Sheboygan and feels like stepping into a postcard.
Why go:
If you love small towns with old stone buildings, boutique shops, and cozy cafés, this is your spot.
What to do:
- Stroll Washington Avenue to explore historic mills, shops, and galleries.
- Walk along Cedar Creek and snap photos of the old dam and bridge.
- Stop in a local winery or coffee shop for a relaxed afternoon break.
Cedarburg is a great place to bring visiting family. It’s easy to park, easy to walk, and there’s a little something for everyone—from candy stores for kids to wine tastings for adults.
3. Lighthouse & Lakefront Time in Port Washington (Ozaukee County, WI)
Just a bit farther south along the lakefront, you’ll hit
Port Washington, another gem in Ozaukee County. If you like lighthouses, marinas, and fresh fish, this is a must‑do road trip from Sheboygan.
Why go:
You get that Great Lakes harbor feel without crossing any state lines.
What to do:
- Walk out to the Port Washington Breakwater Lighthouse for classic photos.
- Stroll the harbor and watch the fishing boats come and go.
- Grab fish fry or fresh seafood at a local restaurant near the marina.
If you time it right, watching the sun rise over Lake Michigan here is unforgettable. It’s a peaceful way to start the day, then you can be back in Sheboygan by lunch.
4. Family Fun at Little Amerricka & Lake Ripley Side Trip (Jefferson / Nearby, From the West)
While not in the listed counties, many Sheboygan locals looking for a western drive pair a trip through
Fond du Lac County with a destination like
Little Amerricka near Lake Ripley (Jefferson County). It’s a bit of a stretch from Sheboygan—around an hour and a half—but makes a fun day if you don’t mind a longer outing.
Why go:
It’s a classic, small amusement park with a throwback feel, and the drive through rural Wisconsin (including parts of Fond du Lac County) is half the fun.
What to do on the way and nearby:
- Enjoy the rolling farmland views as you pass through Fond du Lac County.
- Spend a few hours on vintage rides at the park.
- Cool off and relax near Lake Ripley afterward.
This is the kind of trip where you pack snacks, turn up the music, and enjoy the scenery as much as the destination itself.
5. Maritime Vibes in Manitowoc (Manitowoc County, WI)
Head about 30 miles north and you’ll land in
Manitowoc, in Manitowoc County. It’s another perfect day trip from Sheboygan, especially if you’re into ships, history, or lake views.
Why go:
Manitowoc is a true
Great Lakes port city with a strong maritime story.
What to do:
- Visit the Wisconsin Maritime Museum and tour a retired World War II submarine.
- Walk the lakefront trail and enjoy the sandy beach and harbor.
- Watch the S.S. Badger ferry come and go during the season.
If you’re traveling with kids or history buffs, the submarine tour is a hit. It’s one of those unique experiences you don’t expect to find in a small Midwest city.
6. Quiet Trails at Ledge View Nature Center (Calumet County, WI)
In nearby
Calumet County,
Ledge View Nature Center offers caves, limestone cliffs, and some peaceful hiking only about an hour from Sheboygan.
Why go:
It’s a simple, nature‑focused road trip that doesn’t require a lot of planning, and the geology is surprisingly dramatic for such a short drive.
What to do:
- Hike along the Niagara Escarpment for views over farmland and forest.
- Join a guided cave tour (seasonal) to explore underground passages.
- Climb the observation tower for a wide‑open view of the countryside.
Wear shoes you don’t mind getting dirty, especially if you plan to do any cave exploring—things can get muddy.
7. City Meets Countryside in West Bend (Washington County, WI)
About an hour southwest of Sheboygan,
West Bend in Washington County offers a blend of small‑city conveniences and outdoor activities.
Why go:
It’s a nice choice if your group can’t agree—some want nature, others want shopping and restaurants. West Bend gives you both.
What to do:
- Walk or bike the Riverwalk along the Milwaukee River.
- Browse shops and grab lunch downtown.
- Take a short drive to nearby trails and lakes in Washington County.
This is one of those places I like for “loose plans.” You don’t have to schedule every minute—just park, wander, and see what catches your eye.
8. Classic Lake Town Vibes Around Fond du Lac (Fond du Lac County, WI)
At the south end of Lake Winnebago lies the city of
Fond du Lac, in Fond du Lac County. It’s a comfortable day trip from Sheboygan and a great way to experience a different side of Wisconsin’s lake life.
Why go:
You get big‑lake views, parks, and a laid‑back small‑city feel.
What to do:
- Relax at a lakeside park and watch boats on Lake Winnebago.
- Explore local shops and cafés downtown.
- Take a scenic drive along the lakeshore and stop at overlooks.
If you’re into simple pleasures—ice cream cones, park benches, watching the water—Fond du Lac makes for a low‑stress, rewarding afternoon.
9. Cross-Lake Adventure to Ludington, Michigan (Mason County, MI)
Looking for a slightly bigger adventure? Head to Manitowoc and hop the
S.S. Badger ferry across Lake Michigan to
Ludington in Mason County, Michigan.
Yes, it’s more of a full‑day or overnight trip, but it’s one of the most unique getaways you can do from Sheboygan.
Why go:
You get a boat ride, a new state, and a classic Michigan beach town—without having to drive all the way around the lake.
What to do in Ludington:
The ferry itself is part of the fun. You can sit on deck, feel the wind, and watch the Wisconsin shoreline fade as Michigan comes into view.
10. Dunes and Beaches in Silver Lake & Pentwater (Oceana County, MI)
If you’re up for extending your Michigan adventure a bit farther, drive north from Ludington into
Oceana County to explore
Silver Lake and
Pentwater.
Why go:
Huge dunes, clear water, and a laid‑back vacation town vibe make this area feel like a completely different world compared to everyday life in Sheboygan.
What to do:
- Visit the Silver Lake Sand Dunes for off‑road rides or dune hikes.
- Swim and sunbathe on the beaches of Lake Michigan.
- Stroll the quaint streets of Pentwater, with its shops and harbor.
This is a great place for a long weekend, especially in late summer when the water is warm and the days are long.
Tips for Easy Road Trips From Sheboygan
To make these out‑of‑county road trips more enjoyable, keep a few simple tips in mind:
- Pack a small “road bag”: Snacks, water, sunscreen, bug spray, and a light jacket go a long way.
- Check hours and fees: State parks and museums may have entry fees or seasonal hours.
- Start earlier for Michigan trips: If you’re taking the ferry or crossing time zones, build in some extra time.
- Mix and match: Many of these stops can be combined into one loop if you like variety.
Ready to Hit the Road From Sheboygan?
Living in or visiting Sheboygan means you’re surrounded by great day trip options. From
Ozaukee’s beaches and
Calumet’s cliffs to
Manitowoc’s harbor and
Michigan’s dunes, you don’t have to go far to feel like you’ve gone somewhere special.
Which of these out‑of‑county road trips will you try first?
Have you already visited any of these spots or discovered a hidden gem near Sheboygan?
Share your favorite routes, tips, or photos in the comments below—and if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends and family who are planning their own Wisconsin road trips. The more ideas we swap, the better our weekend adventures get.
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