Things To Do
Original Wisconsin Ducks
Itinerary #1 - Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours The Wisconsin Dells are split into two sections by a dam, creating the Upper and Lower Dells—and you’ll want to see both to get the full experience! The best way to tour the Lower Dells is on a duck boat operated by the Original Wisconsin Ducks. If you’re looking for a fun way to spend your Friday morning before the wedding or if you are staying over the weekend, experience Tyler’s old summer job and ride a World War II–era amphibious duck boat for great views and local history. We recommend pairing this with a jet boat tour to explore the Upper Dells, but be warned—you will get wet! Wear a swimsuit, bring a towel, and have a change of clothes ready. If getting soaked isn’t your thing, opt for an Upper Dells boat tour instead for a more history-focused (and dry!) experience. After your tours, grab lunch at High Rock Cafe. If you get an early start, you’ll still have plenty of time to get ready for the wedding on Friday!
Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours
Itinerary #1 - Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours
High Rock
Itinerary #1 - Wisconsin Dells Boats Tours
Devil's Lake State Park
Itinerary #2 - Devil's Lake State Park Devil’s Lake is beautiful and conveniently located within 30 minutes of the wedding venue, making it a perfect half-day adventure. Arrive when the park opens and enjoy a two- to three-hour hike around the lake ahead of the wedding. If hiking isn’t your thing, relax at the beach or rent a paddle board to take in the views from the water. Afterward, grab lunch and a beer at Tumbled Rock Brewery nearby. If you’re staying for the weekend, consider making it a full day and doing it all! Public grills are available (just bring charcoal) if you’d like to cook out, or pack a cooler with sandwiches for an easy picnic. Coming in from Madison that morning? It’s a great stop along the way!
Tumbled Rock Brewery & Kitchen
Itinerary #2 - Devil's Lake State Park
Noah's Ark Waterpark
Itinerary #3 - The Waterparks It’s hard to visit the “Waterpark Capital of the World” and not check one out! Of all the options, Noah’s Ark is the most iconic (“America’s Largest Waterpark”) and our top recommendation. That said, Mt. Olympus, Kalahari, Wilderness, Great Wolf Lodge, and Chula Vista each have their own perks. If you’re looking for an outdoor experience, Noah’s Ark and Mt. Olympus are great choices. Mt. Olympus is especially unique since it’s the only one of the two that also features dry roller coasters. If you’ve got a free day during the weekend, this is a fun way to spend it and worth planning a full day around. That said, if you need to choose, we’d recommend prioritizing the Wisconsin Dells boat tours, Devil’s Lake, or Madison itineraries first.
Ishnala Supper Club
Ishnala is the total Wisconsin experience and is a perfect way to round out any of our half-day itineraries. Built in 1953, it opened 13 years before Mirror Lake was designated a state park — and as a result, it remains the only restaurant allowed to operate within the park. It’s a classic supper club: old fashioneds (not from Wisconsin? Google a Wisconsin Old Fashioned before ordering!), prime rib, steak — you name it, they do it, and they do it right. The setting is just as memorable, with beautiful lake views, cozy lodge vibes, and plenty of spots to relax with a drink. There are no reservations, and there will be a wait, so plan to arrive early. Grab a cocktail at one of the four bars or catch live music on the beach while you wait to get the full Ishnala experience.
Memorial Union
Itinerary #4 - Madison Madison is hands down our favorite place — we love it. With the State Capitol and university nestled between two lakes, the city is perfectly set up for a great summer day. Spend the morning touring the Capitol, strolling State Street, or paddleboarding on Lake Mendota. Afterward, grab a pitcher of Spotted Cow (Only in Wisconsin!) at the Memorial Union Terrace for beautiful lake views before heading to dinner at The Old Fashioned for the ultimate Wisconsin experience (don’t forget the cheese curds!). Cap off the evening with live music at one of the many great bars on State Street or around Capitol Square. Feeling a little fancier? Swap The Old Fashioned for dinner at Graze, then enjoy a glass of wine at Eno Vino for beautiful views of the Capitol. If you’re staying overnight, stop by Mickie’s Dairy Bar — a Madison staple — for a big, classic diner breakfast. Prefer a mimosa-filled brunch? Check out Bassett Street Brunch Club instead!
The Old Fashioned
Itinerary #4 - Madison
Graze Restaurant
Itinerary #4 - Madison
Eno Vino Downtown
Itinerary #4 - Madison
Mickies Dairy Bar
Itinerary #4 - Madison
Bassett Street Brunch Club
Itinerary #4 - Madison