10 Fun Things To Do Near Germantown, Wisconsin (Washington County)
If you’re looking for easy day trip ideas in southeast Wisconsin,
Germantown in Washington County is a great place to start. It’s close to Milwaukee, but it still feels friendly, relaxed, and small-town.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, visiting family, or just passing through, here are
10 fun things to do in and near Germantown, WI that are worth your time.
1. Step Back in Time at Dheinsville Historic Park
One of the most unique places in Germantown is
Dheinsville Historic Park, right along Highway 145. This little village was founded in the 1840s by German immigrants, and you can still see that history today.
You’ll find:
- The Christ Church Museum (an old half-timbered church)
- The Wolf Haus Museum with local history displays
- Historic homes and barns you can walk around
On a quiet afternoon, it feels like you’ve stepped into a tiny German village. If you enjoy photography, this is a great spot for pictures, especially in fall when the leaves turn color.
Tip: Check local listings for events like
Oktoberfest or heritage festivals that sometimes take place here.
2. Sip and Relax at Apple Works Winery
If you like trying local wine, stop by
Apple Works Winery right in Germantown. It’s cozy, casual, and very Midwestern.
You can:
- Enjoy a wine tasting flight with friends
- Try fruit-forward wines made from local ingredients
- Sit outside on a nice day and just unwind
It’s not a stuffy kind of place at all. Think jeans, flannel, and a glass of wine after a long week.
Good to know: Call ahead or check their website for hours, especially in winter or around holidays.
3. Go Hiking and Biking on the Bugline Trail
Just a short drive from Germantown, you’ll find the popular
Bugline Trail, which runs through nearby communities like Menomonee Falls and Sussex. This paved trail stretches about 16 miles and is perfect for:
- Walking or jogging
- Biking with the family
- Casual birdwatching and nature walks
The trail is mostly flat, so it’s friendly for almost all ages and fitness levels. If you like to start your morning with some movement and fresh air, this is a great choice.
Tip: Bring a water bottle and a light jacket—spring and fall mornings can be cool, even if the sun is out.
4. Explore Holy Hill and Its Scenic Tower
One of the most iconic spots near Germantown is
Holy Hill Basilica and National Shrine, about a 20–30 minute drive away in Hubertus. Even if you’re not religious, it’s an amazing place to visit.
Here’s what makes it special:
- A stunning church on top of a hill surrounded by woods
- A tall observation tower with incredible views of the Kettle Moraine area
- Peaceful walking paths and places to sit and reflect
On a clear day, you can see for miles. In fall, the rolling hills are covered in red, orange, and gold leaves—it looks like a painting.
Note: There are stairs up to the tower, so wear comfortable shoes.
5. Have Some Classic Wisconsin Fun at a Local Supper Club
If you want a true
Wisconsin experience near Germantown, you need to visit a supper club. These are old-school, family-run restaurants where people linger over dinner and drinks.
Many spots around Washington County serve:
- Fried fish on Friday nights
- Prime rib or steak dinners
- Brandy old fashioneds (a Wisconsin staple)
The vibe is relaxed and welcoming. It’s the kind of place where you end up chatting with people at the bar about the Packers or the weather.
Pro tip: Go early on Friday—it can get busy fast.
6. Shop and Stroll in Historic Downtown Cedarburg
About a 25–30 minute drive from Germantown,
Cedarburg is one of the most charming small towns in southeast Wisconsin. It’s a great half-day trip if you like browsing and wandering.
In downtown Cedarburg, you’ll find:
- Stone and brick buildings from the 1800s
- Antique shops and boutiques
- Cafés, wine bars, and local restaurants
It’s the kind of place where you grab a coffee, wander in and out of shops, and lose track of time. In December, the town goes all-out with lights and decorations.
Family idea: Pair Cedarburg with a stop at a nearby pumpkin farm or orchard in the fall for a full day of fun.
7. Paddle, Fish, or Picnic at Local Lakes
While Germantown itself is more suburban,
Washington County has plenty of lakes and rivers within a short drive. If you like being on the water, you’ve got options.
Depending on where you go, you can:
- Kayak or canoe on smaller lakes and rivers
- Try your luck fishing for panfish, bass, or northern pike
- Spread out a blanket and enjoy a simple picnic
On a warm summer evening, there’s nothing better than sitting by the water with some snacks and watching the sun go down.
Tip: If you’re visiting from out of state and want to fish, check the Wisconsin DNR website for license info.
8. Hit the Greens at Local Golf Courses
If golf is your thing, the Germantown area has several
public golf courses within an easy drive. Courses in and around Washington County offer:
- 18-hole layouts with rolling hills
- Practice ranges and putting greens
- Clubhouse bars and grills for a bite after your round
Summer mornings on the course are usually quiet and peaceful, with just the sound of birds, golf carts, and the occasional shout of “Fore!”
Idea: Make it a full day—morning golf, afternoon Bugline Trail, and a supper club dinner.
9. Visit Local Farms, Orchards, and Farm Stands
One of the perks of visiting
Germantown, Wisconsin is how close you are to the countryside. Drive just a few minutes out of town and you’ll see fields, barns, and farm stands.
Depending on the season, you might:
- Pick your own apples, strawberries, or pumpkins
- Buy fresh sweet corn, honey, or jams
- Enjoy hayrides or corn mazes in the fall
It’s simple fun, but it’s the kind of day that sticks with you—muddy boots, fresh air, and a bag of apples rolling around in the back seat.
Tip: Bring cash; some small stands don’t take cards.
10. Spend a Day in Milwaukee and Still Sleep in Germantown
One big advantage of staying in Germantown is that you’re only about a
25–30 minute drive from downtown Milwaukee. That means you can enjoy the city and still come back to a quieter place at night.
In Milwaukee, you can:
- Tour the Harley-Davidson Museum
- Walk along the lakefront and the Milwaukee RiverWalk
- Catch a Brewers game at American Family Field
- Explore neighborhoods like the Third Ward for dining and shopping
If you like the idea of taking a “big city” day trip without dealing with big city hotel prices, Germantown is a smart base.
Final Thoughts: Why Germantown, WI Is Worth a Stop
Germantown may not be the biggest name on the map, but it’s a
great home base for exploring southeast Wisconsin. You get:
- Small-town comfort
- Easy access to nature, trails, and lakes
- Short drives to places like Holy Hill, Cedarburg, and Milwaukee
Whether you’re into history, wine, hiking, or just slow-paced weekends, you’ll find something here that fits your style.
What Would You Add to the List?
Have you spent time in
Germantown or Washington County, Wisconsin?
- Did you discover a favorite park, restaurant, or hidden gem?
- Is there a local festival or event people shouldn’t miss?
Share your tips and experiences in the comments—your ideas can help other travelers plan their own Germantown getaway.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with friends or family who are planning a trip to Wisconsin!
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