A guide to accommodation in Northern Wisconsin incl. the best resorts in Northern Wisconsin and the best cabins for rent in northern Wisconsin
Northern Wisconsin is known for the national parks, quiet beauty, and forests. It’s famous for its watersports and kayaking adventures as there are numerous adventure centers here.
This place is for all, which means that whether you are cool and calm by nature or an adventurer, this place is for you. Resorting in Northern Wisconsin is a great idea, due to natural beauty and the level of service that the resorts of this area provide.
It’s one of the best parts of the state as it is full of natural resources and tourism flourishes here. Some of the famous places here are Vagabond park, Badwater Lake, Menominee River, Spread Eagle, and Iron Mountain just to name a few.
This article has been written to foster tourism in the area. This article will also share with you some of the best cabins for rent in northern Wisconsin, USA, some of them are considered among the most romantic cabins in Wisconsin.
It’s also a great area when looking for places to vacation in Wisconsin to relax and enjoy nature.
If you are planning to a luxury getaway in Wisconsin, make sure to have a look at my guide about the best luxury resorts in Wisconsin.
This blog is supported by you, dear reader. If you purchase through a link, I earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
Table of Contents
Top resources to travel Wisconsin
✎ Plan the ultimate Wisconsin road trip (no backtracking!) with the Perfect Wisconsin Road Trip itinerary – Buy now for less than 12$
✈ Find the best hotel deals in Wisconsin with Trivago
➳ Book vacation rentals in Wisconsin with VRBO
✔ Book tours in Wisconsin with Viator
☘ Get the best discounted outdoor gear (outlet) at REI.com
$ Get Wisconsin hiking guides and maps at REI.com
✎ Never leave without travel insurance. I get mine at SafetyWing. It is easy to set up, cheap, and reliable.
Best 5-Star Resorts in Northern Wisconsin
1. The Shallows Resort *****
Where: Egg Harbor, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee:172 miles
How far from Madison: 201 miles
The tagline of this resort reads “Stay on the Bay” and one of my favorite thing about The Shallow Resort is that it is family owned and operated.
Since its inception in 1968, it has constantly evolved to be one of the best resorts of Wisconsin. The waterfront is the best selling point of the resort accompanied by the resort pool that is also a few steps away.
Not surprisingly, this is also one of the best lake resorts in Wisconsin.
In 2018, the resort celebrated its 50th anniversary of continued service to the tourists. The amenities include a tennis court, a swing set, a private shore and dock, a heated outdoor pool and tubs.
It’s an ideal choice when looking for a luxury resort in Wisconsin!
The resort also owns two bonfire areas on the beach. Northern Wisconsin attractions such as the town of Egg Harbor lie within walking distance. – Check rates & reviews here
2. Hotel Marshfield, BW Premier Collection *****
Where: Marshfield, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 190 miles
How far from Madison:148 miles
The hotel features 5 different types of rooms, so there is room for everyone, irrespective of your budget. The resort has 99 rooms.
In 2016. the Hotel Marshfield, BW Premier Collection was made a part of the Best Western Premier Collection of luxury boutique hotels.
Here, every customer earns points on their stay which can be redeemed for an extended stay or on the next trip. If you are a corporate traveler you’ll get a 10 % discount and shuttle service to the local businesses.
Looking for one of the best 5-star resorts in Northern Wisconsin, this one is surely recommended. It’s just perfect for your Wisconsin Vacation. – Check rates & reviews here
Best 4-Star Resorts in Northern Wisconsin
3. Gordon Lodge ****
Where: Baileys Harbor, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 183 miles
How far from Madison: 212 miles
The Gordon Lodge has a private beach of around 300 feet which makes it unique. Started by Dr. AJ Gordon and his wife, this place has evolved into one of the best resorts of Northern Wisconsin, and one of the most romantic hotels in Wisconsin.
The equipment offered here includes bicycles and basketballs. The water equipment is also complimentary so kayaking and fishing can be done at your leisure. The resort also has a private waterfront and offers hot pools and tubs.
The miles-long property that was expanded in 2016 can also be used as a starting point for trekking and hiking in Northern Wisconsin. Starting as a boathouse, this resort is also one of the casual dining destinations.
The resort remains closed for the winter months and it reopens in May so please plan your trip accordingly. – Check rates & reviews here
4. Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior ****
Where: Tofte, Minnesota
How far from Milwaukee: 479 miles
How far from Madison: 415 miles
This is a group of 3 resorts offering 3 different types of rooms to the guests. The deck outside each room is just 12 feet from the water and all the front rooms have large windows.
Right on the edge of Lake Superior, the Blufin Bay on Lake Superior is one of the best places to stay for a weekend getaway. The Sawtooth Mountains lie right behind the resort and provide a stunning view.
The amenities include a whirlpool, a stone fireplace, custom bedding, and a large porch.
Your relaxing retreat is further nurtured by spa services that they offer in partnership with Eminence Skin Care.
The spa menu is large and almost every service that is related to the business is offered, making it one of the best spa resorts in Wisconsin.
The resort got an excellence certificate in 2019 by TripAdvisor. – Check rates & reviews here
5. Northernaire Resort ****
Where: Three Lakes, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 241 miles
How far from Madison: 234 miles
The gorgeous Northernaire Resort offers condos, cabins, and vacation homes. The resort lies on the shores of inland lakes that have the largest chain in the world. To be precise, there are 28 lakes that you can visit if you choose this resort. Some of them are considered among the best lakes in Wisconsin.
There are studio units and three-bedroom units to fit your needs. The hot tub is located outside, beside the garden, and there is a year-round indoor pool.
The resort also offers a 24 hours exercise room with tennis and basketball courts that overlook the lakes in front. The bar faces the Deer Lake where you can enjoy your cocktail. – Check rates & reviews here
6. Konkapot Lodge ****
Where: Bowler, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 171 miles
How far from Madison: 166 miles
This 28 room lodge has magically scenic views of Wisconsin Northwoods. The tagline of this accommodation venue reads “Perfect Experience” and they mean it.
The Konkapot Lodge is 22 years old and directly faces the Stockbridge Munsee Band of Mohicans Reservation area that is just a few yards away. The rooms are divided into two categories of hot tub suites and deluxe rooms.
The parking is ample and free and there is complimentary breakfas. If you are facing mobility issues, they also have the accessible rooms. The mezzanine areas are large and can host several people at a time.
The room rates are different on weekends so please plan your trip accordingly. Make sure to plan plenty of time to hike since the area is home to some of the best hiking trails in Wisconsin. – Check rates & reviews here
7. Best Western Crandon Inn & Suites ****
Where: Crandon, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 225 miles
How far from Madison: 214 miles
The Best Western Crandon Inn & Suites is a true luxury in the area. 7 different types of rooms are offered by this resort and each offers several amenities as well. It’s not a pet-friendly place and once the reservation has been made, it’s non-refundable.
It has one large indoor pool and there’s also an indoor hot tub. The amenities include free Wi-Fi and a parking area. The pool area is large and the rooms are also spacious and comfortable.
It’s a family-friendly hotel that offers a kids pool and microwave, free of charge. There are a gym and business center in case you are a corporate client and want to conduct meetings. – Check rates & reviews here
8. Homestead Suites – Fish Creek ****
Where: Fish Creek, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 179 miles
How far from Madison: 208 miles
The picturesque Homestead Suites – Fish Creek is a group of 4 different rest houses. The resort is located right at the entrance of Peninsula State Park and this makes it unique. The rooms have been recently renovated and there are places of interest that surround this awesome place.
There’s a heated sauna, an indoor pool, and a spa. The resort also offers a bike storage facility if you are planning or bringing one with you.
The hotel also offers a game room to keep you engaged and in case you’re a fitness freak, there is a 24 hours gym facility as well. It’s one of the best Northern Wisconsin resorts when looking for a home away from home. – Check rates & reviews here
9. Stewart Inn ****
Where: Wausau, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 189 miles
How far from Madison: 147 miles
The traditional bed and breakfast experience that you get at the Stewart Inn is matchless. The design of the hotel has been made by George Maher who’s regarded as the founder of American Arts and Crafts.
This is one of the greatest examples of the intact art that was designed by him. It’s also a great wedding venue. The basic aim of the resort is to make sure that you just feel like a local.
There are laundry services, a complimentary breakfast, and outdoor relaxing areas for your rest. There’s also a wine and cheese reception at 5 pm daily. It’s one of the best things to do in northern Wisconsin. – Check rates & reviews here
Best 3-Star Resorts in Northern Wisconsin
10. Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort ***
Where: Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 158 miles
How far from Madison: 187 miles
Located right on Sturgeon Bay, the fabulous Westwood Shores Waterfront Resort provides you with all the amenities that you can think of. The resort is just a few steps away from the best places in Door County.
It’s a family-friendly place and is preferred to get together and family reunions. The amenities here include a parking and laundry services that are complementary.
There’s a complete kitchen attached to each room and all the appliances are full size. There’s also an indoor jacuzzi for you to relax. The property has 38 suites, all facing the bay where you can watch the sunset.
There’s also a private beach without any trespassing or interference. Some of the best waterfalls in Northern Wisconsin are also at a walking distance from this resort. – Check rates & reviews here
11. The Beacons of Minocqua ***
Where: Minocqua, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 254 miles
How far from Madison: 212 miles.
As the name suggests, the Beacons of Minocqua is located on Lake Minocqua so it has all the fun that Northwoods has to offer.
The property is large (13 acres) and suitable for both short and long visits, and is one of the best hotels in Minocqua for both family and romantic getaways.
There are a tennis, a volleyball and a basketball court with all the equipment that you need.
The property also has a playground for your children and the outdoor activities include fishing, winter skating, and bike trails. It’s also perfect when looking for cool things to do in Wisconsin in Winter since it has plenty of options such as Christmas market and ice skating.
Therefore it’s one of the best winter resorts in Wisconsin when looking for things to do in Wisconsin at Christmas.
In summer, the resort regularly plans art exhibitions, movie nights, and pontoon trips. There’s a good reason why it’s considered one of the best Northern Wisconsin resorts on lakes.
This resort, right along the banks of the lake, provides you with ample opportunities to enjoy and have fun. – Check rates & reviews here
12. Rainbow’s End Resort Camp ***
Where: Chetek, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 286 miles
How far from Madison: 222 miles
The picturesque view of Lake Chetek can be enjoyed from each room of the Rainbow’s End Resort Camp as it’s located right on the bank. The resort also offers a private grassy beach and barbeque facilities.
Each room has a kitchen which includes a fridge, a sink, and an oven. There’s a huge garden at the front of all the outdoor activities. The other on-site activities include a campfire, fishing, and swimming.
There’s a tuck shop as well as a children’s playground at the back. Guests will also find an aluminum rowboat with each room that is included in the fare. – Check rates & reviews here
13. Newport Resort ***
Where: Egg Harbor, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 172 miles
How far from Madison: 201 miles
The best part of the Newport Resort is the fact that it lies in the heart of Door County in the renowned village of Egg Harbor.
As one of the best resorts in Door County, you’re within walking distance from every amenity that the Egg Harbor has to offer.
All the rooms face Green Bay and provide a perfect view. There are a supper club and a café on the property and there’s a swimming pool that is kids friendly.
The premium suites are located on the second floor from where you can also view the village. All the amenities are free to use and a full-fledge kitchen with each room is also included.
Since it’s centrally located in Egg Harbor, you can easily go hiking, swimming, enjoy the museums, or even go wine tasting at one of the top wineries in Door County.
The living room has an LG surround sound system. Some of the best state parks in northern Wisconsin are a few yards away from this resort. – Check rates & reviews here
14. Hilltop Inn ***
Where: Fish Creek, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 179 miles
How far from Madison: 208 miles
Each room of the Hilltop Inn offers a fireplace and an integrated kitchen. There are an indoor and outdoor swimming pool and a large garden, both at the back and front. The barbeque equipment is available on site and it’s free to use.
The bathrooms are well maintained and come with robes and a shower. The tagline of the Inn reads “Your Home Away from Home” and it certainly is. The grilling area is another highlight of this Northern Wisconsin resort. There’s a farmland within the property as well as a vineyard. – Check rates & reviews here
Best 2-Star Resort in Northern Wisconsin
15. Northwoods Best Inn **
Where: Chetek, Wisconsin
How far from Milwaukee: 286 miles
How far from Madison: 222 miles
Northwoods Best Inn is known for the fishing and kayaking opportunities that it offers. It’s a hotel that comprises 10 well-furnished cabins with all the amenities.
It’s a country-style resort that includes all kitchen utensils within the room. Each room has a dock associated with it and there’s a child park within the property. All room rentals include boats but the motors are not included.
The private bonfire area’s also included and can be used free of cost. All the rooms face the magnificent view of Prairie Lake which makes this resort very special for regular get together or romantic interactions.
Among the hotels in northern Wisconsin, this one has been rated high by the users. – Check rates & reviews here
Alternative: Do a cabin getaway in Northern Wisconsin
Cabins in Northern Wisconsin are not for your ordinary hangout. The best part is that there are no tech distractions and you get to find the rustic beauty of the regions in complete wilderness.
It’s advised to go for the cabins that offer, both the luxuries of a kitchen and tubs, along with the waterfronts and natural view of its full glory.
One important thing to note is that the best cabins in Northern Wisconsin are near the mountains, making it suitable for fall activities in Wisconsin as well. It’s also a great idea when looking for weekend trips in Wisconsin if you want to relax and want to enjoy some natural views.
Some of the best cabins located in the area are as follows:
Waterfront Northwoods Cabin on Bearskin Lake
This amazing Waterfront Northwoods Cabin on Bearskin Lake has never been as attractive as this place has made it.
The serene lake scene under the marvelous canopy of pines and birches will leave you speechless. The bath and kitchenette can be accessed through a wooden bridge. – Check rates & reviews here
Peaceful Fountain City Farmhouse w/ Fire Pit & Deck
Hawk View Cottages is the perfect place when looking for a secluded cabin getaway in Northern Wisconsin. Set in a traditional farmhouse, the Peaceful Fountain City Farmhouse w/ Fire Pit & Deck is perfect for those who want to learn more about farm life.
There is an adjacent vineyard that could be visited and enjoy a glass of fabulous wine. – Check rates & reviews here
Island Gateway in Chetek Wisconsin
Located on the private island, the Floods Island Cabin can be regarded as the most secluded location in Northern Wisconsin.
Paddle boats are available for recreation at additional cost. These are log cabins that offer all the amenities such as a fireplace, a kitchen and lake views. – Check rates & reviews here
Big Bear Hideaway
The cozy rooms of the Big Bear Hideaway consist of bunk beds and rustic furniture. There are 6 cabins in total and they are fully loaded with all the amenities such as a private bathroom, a bar, and a combined living room.
The property also includes biking trails and long hiking routes. There are also canoes available for an extra charge. – Check rates & reviews here
Map: Resorts in Northern Wisconsin
Short FAQ about Best Resorts in Northern Wisconsin
What are the best 5-Star Resorts in Northern Wisconsin to stay?
The Shallows Resort and Hotel Marshfield, BW Premier Collection are two of the best 5-star resorts in Northern Wisconsin.
What are the best cabins to consider to stay in Wisconsin?
To name a few cabins, to be considered are Black’s Cliff Resort, Hazelhurst, Floods Island, Jackson’s Lakeside Cottages, etc.
What can you enjoy seeing in Wisconsin on your vacation?
You can enjoy national parks, quiet beauty, and forests. It’s also famous for its watersports and kayaking adventures as there are numerous adventure centers.
Hola! I am Paulina, a fervent travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, you’ll find all the tips to make the most of your holiday. Get ready to enjoy outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling or sailing. Let’s hit the road together!
