A guide about Things to do during Christmas in Wisconsin with Christmas Markets and Christmas Towns
There’s nothing quite like a white Christmas, with a homey atmosphere and a crackling fire to warm you up after a day of holiday fun and shopping.
If this sounds like something you’d enjoy this Christmas season, then start booking your stay in Wisconsin!
There are plenty of Christmas towns, markets, and unique holiday events around the state, sure to suit everybody’s tastes.
Wisconsin winters are well-known for being quite long, very cold, and extremely snowy, which makes the state the ideal destination for a traditional Hallmark movie-style Christmas.
In this article, you’ll find lots of ideas for planning your Christmas in Wisconsin, including tips on which towns offer the most festive attractions and suggestions on the best places to stay.
Whether it’s a couples getaway or a family vacation in Wisconsin that you’re after, there are tons of Christmas-themed things to do in Wisconsin in winter!
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Table of Contents
Things to do during Christmas in Wisconsin
1. Cut your own Christmas Tree
A beautiful tree is the heart of every home during Christmas time. Give the tree even more significance by cutting it down yourself as part of a memorable family experience.
Wisconsin offers plenty of tree farms where you can chop down a tree yourself or pick one and have it cut down for you.
Many farms also have special Christmas-themed events, gift shops, and outdoor activities for kids.
Of course, the stock is limited on tree farms, and trees are in high demand in the weeks leading up to Christmas.
So before heading out to a farm, it’s a good idea to call ahead and make sure it still has trees on offer.
The Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association has a helpful website with a full directory of all tree farms in the state.
This will help you easily check where to cut your own Christmas tree in Wisconsin.
Cutting your own Christmas tree is one of the best Wisconsin Christmas activities!
Where to stay:
Madison Area Lakefront Home is a newly rebuilt lakefront cottage in McFarland, WI.
15 minutes from downtown Madison, 5 minutes walk to shops and restaurants.
Short drive to outdoor concerts, farmers markets, and other activities in the Madison area. – Check prices here
Staying here will give you the feeling that you are staying in one of the best winter cabins in Wisconsin.
2. Meet Rudolph the Reindeer
Is there anything more special to add to your Christmas Wisconsin experience than meeting Santa and his reindeer?
Thanks to the Reindeer Games reindeer farm, there are plenty of places in Wisconsin where you can see Santa arrive in a reindeer sleigh and get your picture taken with one of these friendly, gentle animals.
Rudolph and the other reindeer travel around Wisconsin from mid-November to Christmas, visiting malls and winter festivals along the way on weekends.
Check the Reindeer Games public schedule to find out when and where to see them, or book a private event to make Christmas truly unforgettable!
3. See the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train
Every year, the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Holiday Train winds its way across Canada and the U.S.
Along the way, it stops to provide festive entertainment and raise funds and awareness for local charities.
Wisconsin Dells in winter is one of the best places to see the Christmas train, which stops at the Amtrak Depot on La Crosse St. in the early afternoon.
The train itself is decorated with thousands of Christmas lights, making it a truly wonderful sight.
A half-hour event occurs upon the train’s arrival, featuring live Christmas music and holiday-themed entertainment.
The event is free to attend, and visitors are encouraged to bring a donation (such as a non-perishable food item or simply cash).
All donations will go toward the local food bank and other charities.
Where to stay:
Wisconsin Dells Cabin in the Woods – This family and pet-friendly guest house combines a luxurious, tasteful interior with a rustic vibe.
Sleeping eight, it’s a perfect choice for a Christmas holiday for the whole family or a group of friends.
It’s located near Christmas Mountain where you can find hiking trails and ski slopes.
Restaurants, shops, and other attractions are also well within walking distance. – Check prices here
There are also several luxury cabins in Wisconsin close by.
Alternatively, why not stay at one of the best family resorts in Wisconsin!
4. Visit Christmas Mountain Village in Wisconsin Dells
Christmas Mountain Village, Wisconsin, is a large resort offering seasonal outdoor activities and attractions.
It’s close enough to the city that you can easily stay in Downtown Dells – close to restaurants and local attractions, and visit the resort for a day trip.
Head to Christmas Mountain for 16 skiing and snowboarding downhill runs, with on-site equipment rental and many trails suitable for beginners and first-timers.
Winter fun at the resort also includes snow tubing and cross-country skiing, so there’s something to enjoy for the whole family!
This is the perfect winter getaway in Wisconsin.
While you’re out Christmas Mountain skiing in Wisconsin Dells, don’t miss the annual Winter Carnival at the resort.
The event features live music, fun competitions and contests, fireworks displays, and a torchlight parade.
Where to stay:
The Black Hawk Motel and Suites is a conveniently located accommodation in Wisconsin Dells, in the city center and near various theme parks.
The rooms are equipped with premium bedding, laptop-friendly workspaces, and amenities like free WiFi and air conditioning. – Check prices here
5. Visit the best Christmas Stores in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is home to dozens of year-round Christmas stores.
And what better time to visit them than during the holiday season?
Packed with gorgeous ornaments and unique gifts, Wisconsin Christmas stores will surely put you in a festive mood!
The top-rated Christmas stores in Northern Wisconsin include The Christmas Chalet in Minocqua, Oneida County, and the Tannenbaum Holiday Shop in Sister Bay, Door County.
You can also find several cool things to do in Northern Wisconsin while visiting these beautiful stores.
Check out Kristmas Kringle in Fond du Lac and the Christmas Barn in Elkhorn, Walworth County in southern Wisconsin.
That being said, just about every county in Wisconsin has its favorite Christmas shop.
Wherever you go in the state, you’ll find festive shopping opportunities in the winter!
6. Visit Christmas Markets in Wisconsin
A stroll through the Christmas markets in Wisconsin, complete with a bit of holiday shopping and sampling local produce, is a winter must-do for many visitors to the state.
Christkindlmarket in Milwaukee is particularly popular, with countless stalls and stands, arts and crafts workshops, cooking displays, and other activities for kids and adults alike.
The German Christmas Market in Oconomowoc is another exciting destination.
Here you’ll find polka music and other themed entertainment to liven up an evening of sampling authentic European food and drink and shopping for unique gifts.
The Old World Christmas Market in Elkhart Lake has a similar vibe, with a vast selection of ornaments, gifts, and novelty items from Europe.
There are also many workshops, wagon rides, and plenty of drinks and snacks to enjoy.
Where to stay
The Osthoff Resort is perfect for those who want to splurge. Cabin lovers, you’ll enjoy the heart of Elkhart Lake. – Check prices here
7. Visit a Christmas Tree Farm
Many Christmas tree farms in Wisconsin provide additional attractions and activities during the Christmas season.
Getting a tree is only a tiny part of the fun, so even if you aren’t looking to buy one, visiting a farm will be an excellent experience.
For example, the Tannenbaum Acres Tree Farm in Janesville offers haywagon and bobsled rides, refreshments and delicious local produce, a gift shop, and a reindeer petting zoo!
A trip to the farm will make for a tremendous Christmas-themed day out for the entire family, especially if you visit Tannenbaum Acres on Thanksgiving weekend, just in time to meet Santa!
Where to stay:
Cozy Wood Cabin is a top-rated, beautiful house near Koshkonong Lake is only a 20-minute drive away from Tannenbaum Acres and a 5-minute drive from shops and restaurants.
A great place for a family holiday, it sleeps ten and features 1 bathroom, a vast, landscaped backyard, a cozy queen-size bed, and comes with gorgeous lake views. – Check rates here
8. Stay in Christmas Mountain Village
Christmas Mountain, Wisconsin Dells, is the place to be for winter sports enthusiasts who want to combine outdoor fun with a Christmas-themed holiday.
There are many things to do in Wisconsin Dells for winter, especially skiing.
Christmas Mountain Village is one of Wisconsin’s most popular ski resorts and the best option for skiing in Wisconsin Dells.
There’s plenty to see and do with 16 downhill skiing and snowboarding runs, snow tubing, cross-country skiing trails, and an annual Winter Carnival.
Thanks to on-site accommodation, you can stay right where the action is but still be close enough to the city to reach shops and local attractions easily.
It’s also a great idea when looking for a unique weekend trip in Wisconsin.
Where to stay:
Hampton Inn & Suites at Wisconsin Dells Lake Delton offers guests free continental breakfast, dry cleaning/laundry services, and a gym.
All guests can also access free in-room WiFi and a business center. – Check rates here
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9. Attend the Santa Cycle Rampage in Milwaukee
How many of us can say we’ve seen 3,000 Santas on bicycles, all at once?
Well, by attending Milwaukee’s Santa Cycle Rampage, that’s exactly what you’re in for!
This annual event involves thousands of people signing up and joining together to cycle the streets of Milwaukee in Santa Claus outfits.
As well as seeing this unusual spectacle, you can buy merchandise, such as t-shirts and accessories.
Plus all proceeds go towards Wisconsin Bike Fed, the largest statewide bicycle organization in the U.S.
Where to stay
Stay at one of the coolest Airbnbs in Milwaukee. There are many options for both couples and groups visiting Milwaukee.
Choose those located near Milwaukee’s main attractions, in the famous Third Ward, the artistic hub of the city, and one of the most unique things to do in Milwaukee.
10. Marvel at a Holiday Lights Display
Visiting a Wisconsin holiday lights display is one of the best ways to enter the Christmas spirit and create some wonderful, warm memories.
Most towns put up their own illuminated attractions and displays around Christmas time, so if you’re heading to Wisconsin in winter, check around the local area.
Typically, smaller displays are intended for foot traffic, while larger ones feature drive-through alleys.
For the most spectacular illuminated sights in the state, head to Pewaukee in Waukesha County and look for the Ingleside Hotel.
The hotel is home to Wisconsin’s largest drive-through Christmas lights display, with over a million lights along a mile-long trail over 40 acres of woodland!
The Ingleside Hotel also features other holiday-themed attractions, such as wagon rides and a Christmas village.
Where to stay:
Stunning Cabin in the woods – This 2 bedroom and 2 bathroom cabin is tastefully furnished with north woods rustic decor, providing a relaxing atmosphere.
Nestled in 5 acres of beautiful hardwoods, this cabin is truly a “one-of-a-kind” experience.
Don’t miss the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds – the tranquility of nature and modern amenities! – Check rates here
11. Visit Sam’s Christmas Village in Somerset
Wisconsin Christmas getaways wouldn’t be complete without a visit to a Wisconsin Christmas Village.
For one of the best Christmas villages in Wisconsin, you need to head to the small town of Somerset WI, just a few miles from the Minnesota border.
Here, to the north of the town, you can find Sam’s Christmas Village and Light Tour, one of the best Wisconsin Christmas towns around!
The village sits by the Apple River on over 40 acres of open-air land and displays more than 8 million Christmas lights each year!
Visitors can enjoy all the Christmas activities Wisconsin has to offer, such as petting reindeer and, of course, meeting Santa Claus.
Groups of up to 8 people can also rent out S’more Cabins, which come with campfire essentials and S’more kits.
They’re available from 5 pm to 9/10pm and heated, which always helps!
Don’t miss the European-style Christmas market, with plenty of local produce, crafts, toys, and snacks.
Enjoying the market’s festive cheer is one of the best things to do for Christmas in Wisconsin!
Where to stay:
Choose areas near Somerset to enjoy winter getaways in Wisconsin.
12. Christmas Carnival of Lights, Caledonia WI
Head south from Milwaukee for 20 minutes’ drive and you’ll arrive at Jellystone Park in Caledonia WI, home of the Christmas Carnival of Lights!
This annual light show is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin during Christmas, especially for families and those with young children.
One of the unique draws of this Christmas village in Wisconsin is that it is a drive-through event.
Visitors can use their vehicle to enjoy the sights and sounds of the light displays, with over 2 million lights accompanied by synchronized music.
If you want something more fun, rent a limousine golf cart and glide through the displays.
But for the full ’Tis the Season experience, make sure to book a space on Santa’s giant sleigh, which seats 43 guests in tiered comfortable seating and is pulled by Santa himself!
Fortunately, at the Carnival of Lights, there are even more things to do in Wisconsin for Christmas than the displays.
Santa is available to visit in his workshop four evenings a week, and there’s also the Firefly Boutique which offers festive gifts including toys, jewelry, clothing and more.
Where to stay:
Cozy apartment steps away from Lake Michigan – Stay in nearby Racine, WI, at this wonderful downtown apartment.
This first-floor apartment has all the amenities you need for a Christmas away from home.
Plus, you’ll find some fun Christmas activities in Wisconsin located nearby, including ice fishing on Lake Michigan! – Check rates here
13. Christmas in the Village, Ephraim Door County
If you’re looking for Christmas events Wisconsin with buckets of town cheer, then Christmas in the Village in Ephraim is the place for you.
Up on the northern end of the Door County peninsula (an excellent place for Christmas vacation in Wisconsin), the town of Ephraim sits on the edge of Eagle Harbor opposite Peninsula State Park.
Christmas festivals in Wisconsin don’t get more wholesome than this!
Starting in the Village Hall, where visitors can get festive carriage rides, Santa will arrive on a fire truck and kick off the holiday fun.
After enjoying the activity tables and crafts, it’s time to head over to Olson Park to meet the reindeer and Santa’s elves before Santa lights up the town Christmas tree in Harborside Park.
If the holiday was measured in community spirit, then Ephraim could be the best Christmas town in Wisconsin!
Where to stay:
Harbor House Guest Cottage – This cozy cabin is a dream place to spend Christmas with the whole family.
The cabin sleeps up to 7 people and has plenty of space to hang out together.
There is also an outdoor fire pit for the earlier or later winter days when it isn’t unbearably cold. – Check rates here
14. Go Ice Skating in Milwaukee
Ice skating is one of the best things to do on Christmas. So, if you’re up for some winter fun, I highly recommend hitting the ice at Red Arrow Park in Milwaukee.
Red Arrow Park’s vibe is perfect for a casual and enjoyable ice skating experience.
The cool breeze, the sound of blades on ice, and the lively atmosphere make it a fantastic outing.
What’s great about this place is the ice and the ambiance. It is truly one of the most fun places to go for Christmas.
So, grab your skates, bring your friends or family, and let’s make some winter memories at Red Arrow Park.
Trust me; it’s a slice of winter paradise right in the heart of Milwaukee. Lace up, glide away, and embrace the festive spirit!
Where to stay:
Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel is in the heart of Milwaukee’s downtown theater district.
They offer panoramic views of the city, fine dining options, a 24-hour business center, and free Wi-Fi. – Check rates here
15. Take a Winter Sleigh Ride
Taking a Winter Sleigh Ride in Wisconsin is like stepping into a snowy fairy tale! You’ll find numerous spots across the state that offer this magical experience.
These sleigh rides are pure charm.
The gentle jingle of bells, the rhythmic sound of hooves on the snow, and the breathtaking views of snow-covered fields make it an experience straight out of a holiday movie.
Don’t forget to bring along some hot cocoa or cider to keep warm and add that extra touch of coziness to the adventure.
So, if you’re up for a bit of winter magic and want to embrace the holiday season uniquely, a Winter Sleigh Ride in Wisconsin is an absolute must.
Trying this is surely one of the fun things to do for Christmas!
Where to Stay
Aloft Milwaukee Downtown is located in the Westown neighborhood of Milwaukee, near the boardwalk and in the entertainment district.
Rooms are equipped with air conditioning and free WiFi. They also feature LCD TVs with premium channels, wardrobes, refrigerators, and free infant beds.
Bathrooms include showers and free toiletries. – Check rates here
16. Explore the Rotary Winter Wonderland in Marshfield
Discovering the Rotary Winter Wonderland in Marshfield is like stumbling upon a hidden gem of holiday magic! I can’t recommend it enough.
Whether you decide to cruise through in the warmth of your car or bundle up for a festive stroll, you’re in for a treat.
If you’re more of a stroller, the experience takes on a different, equally delightful charm.
The crisp winter air, the soft crunch of snow underfoot, and the glow of the holiday lights create a cozy and intimate atmosphere.
One of my favorite things about the Rotary Winter Wonderland is the attention to detail.
The displays are not just lights; they tell stories.
And it’s not just for the adults – kids absolutely love it! You can expect that it is one of the best things to do on Christmas day, especially for families!
Where to Stay:
Hotel Marshfield, BW Premier Collection has A 42-inch flat-screen TV and free WiFi.
You can also brew your own coffee in a Keurig® coffee maker and make use of the in-room refrigerator. – Check rates here
17. See the Lights at Olin-Turville Park, Madison
Madison is one of the best Christmas places in Wisconsin you should visit.
Walking through Olin-Turville Park in Madison when it’s all decked out in holiday lights is one of those things that makes my heart feel warm and fuzzy.
What I love most about this experience is the simplicity of it all.
No grand agenda, no rush – just a leisurely walk through a park that’s been transformed into a magical space.
The park often becomes a canvas for creative light displays, turning it into a real visual treat.
Every turn brings a new delight, from classic holiday scenes to imaginative installations.
So, if you’re in Madison during the holiday season and looking for a dose of pure, simple holiday magic, strolling through Olin-Turville Park is an absolute must!
You will surely enjoy your Christmas getaway Wisconsin.
Where to Stay:
The Best Western Premier Park Hotel is in Downtown Madison, a neighborhood known for its entertainment and proximity to the airport.
The hotel rooms offer free WiFi, premium bedding, laptop-friendly workspaces, 42-inch flat-screen TVs, and other amenities such as refrigerators, microwaves, and designer toiletries. – Check rates here
18. Visit Lambeau Field in Green Bay
Christmas in Wisconsin is not only magical but also exciting.
Why? Visiting Lambeau Field in Green Bay during the holiday season is like combining two of my favorite things – festive cheer and football fanaticism.
It’s not just a stadium; it’s a legendary haven for Green Bay Packers enthusiasts, and the holiday vibe adds a whole new layer of excitement.
The iconic stadium, adorned with holiday decorations, takes on a spirited charm. I always find myself grinning from ear to ear, whether it’s my first time or my twentieth.
Walking through Lambeau Field feels like stepping into the heart and soul of football history.
And during the holiday season, there’s often a special touch – maybe a giant Christmas tree in the atrium or festive decorations that make the tour even more memorable.
Going here will make your Christmas vacation in Wisconsin memorable!
Where to Stay:
AmericInn by Wyndham Green Bay West is a 7-minute drive from Lambeau Field. They have a fitness center, a games room, a laundry, and a vending machine.
The rooms are also equipped with Cable TV, a microwave, and a refrigerator. – Check rates here
Visit the Best Christmas Towns in Wisconsin
19. Milwaukee
You’ll never be short on things to do in Milwaukee in winter. There’s a reason it’s one of the top places to visit in Wisconsin in winter.
From November until the end of December, the city hosts a huge range of Christmas-themed events, in addition to its year-round attractions.
Marvel at the decorations and interactive displays at the Holiday Lights Festival, jump on the East Troy Railroad Train, another Christmas Train in Wisconsin.
Enjoy live entertainment and holiday-themed activities at Bayshore’s Season to Sparkle. You can always enjoy your stay during winter in Milwaukee.
Remember to visit Milwaukee’s Historic Third Ward, known for its artistic atmosphere.
In December, the district is full of pop-up Christmas events, stalls, shops, and live holiday-themed entertainment!
Where to stay:
Country Inn – Milwaukee is a hotel in Brookfield’s business district near a metro station.
It’s close to Lake Michigan, Frame Park Formal Gardens, Sharon Lynne Wilson Center for the Arts, and The Rave-Eagles Club. Rooms have air conditioning, free WiFi, and desk chairs. – Check rates here
The modern, elegant interior includes a fully equipped kitchen, and all these things make it one of the best Airbnbs in Milwaukee.
20. Chippewa Falls
Chippewa Falls in western Wisconsin is an ideal Christmas destination, particularly if you’re looking for an atmospheric, traditional holiday away from city crowds.
This small city packs an impressive number of Christmas-themed attractions, such as the Christmas Village in Irvine Park, with a scenic lights display and live entertainment.
You can also take a Christmas wagon ride, join in on the Christmas Carol Singalong, visit Santa’s House, and enjoy the Bridge to Wonderland Parade, featuring dozens of illuminated floats and complimentary drinks!
It’s a must when spending Christmas in Wisconsin.
Where to stay:
Wooded Retreat in the City – Located in Eau Claire, 12 miles from Chippewa Falls, this three-bedroom house is incredibly cozy.
When you stay, it will feel like a “home away from home,” which is perfect for winter family holidays.
The house features a large yard (ideal for snowball fights!), a game room, and a fully stocked kitchen.
Restaurants and shops in Eau Claire are easily within walking distance. – Check rates here
21. Cedarburg
The historic city of Cedarburg has a long-standing reputation for being one of the best Christmas towns Wisconsin.
It’s easy to see why – between all the holiday-themed events in November and December, there’s always something to see and do here in the winter!
The Festive Friday Eves series of events is particularly popular.
Held on five consecutive Fridays leading up to Christmas, these feature themed events (different theme every Friday) centered around Christmas.
You’ll get to enjoy live music, food, and wine sampling, wagon rides, and much more.
The Historic District along Washington Avenue is transformed into a Christmas market in the holiday season.
You can’t go wrong with dozens of shops and stalls with everything from gifts to snacks and hot drinks!
This region also has some of the best snowmobile trails in Wisconsin, which is a great winter activity for the whole family.
Where to stay:
Our Happy Place in Cedarburg is the ideal spot to enjoy quality time with family or friends.
This property is just a block from the unique festivals in historic downtown Cedarburg. It is near a lot of the city’s Christmas shopping and entertainment takes place.
If you visit Cedarburg specifically for holiday shopping and Christmas fun, you can’t get closer to the action than this!
The property has three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room, and a family room – Check rates here
22. Madison
Winter in Madison, WI is one of the best things to visit the city.
There are many festive things to do in Madison, Wisconsin during the Christmas season!
From the incredible holiday lights display at Olin Park to the annual Holiday Express Train Show at Olbrich Botanical Gardens, featuring a model train display with holiday decorations and a Christmas-themed twist.
For the ultimate Christmas shopping experience, visit the Downtown Madison Holiday Open House, featuring dozens of shops and stalls.
In addition to retail, the Open House provides lots of holiday entertainment, including trolley rides, carol singing, arts and crafts workshops, and other fun family activities.
Performing arts enthusiasts will be glad to hear that the Overture Center for Arts puts on holiday classics (such as The Nutcracker) and themed entertainment events around Christmas time.
Christmas in Wisconsin can’t happen without this!
Where to stay:
Hyatt Place Madison Downtown is a well-located hotel close to a metro station in Downtown Madison.
The rooms have air conditioning, separate sitting areas, and free WiFi. There’s a complimentary full breakfast, a coffee shop/cafe, and a bar. – Check prices here
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23. Wisconsin Dells
The city of Wisconsin Dells is known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, with over 20 parks in the area.
These offer tons of active, indoor fun to enjoy during Christmas time in Wisconsin.
For outdoor, Christmas-themed activities, head to Christmas Village, Wisconsin Dells (described above), a famous resort offering skiing, snowboarding, snow tubing, cross-country skiing, and lots more.
This is one of the best places to go skiing in Wisconsin Dells!
While in Wisconsin Dells at Christmas, don’t miss the Canadian Pacific Railway’s Holiday Train, decked out in thousands of lights and with live Christmas-themed entertainment!
Where to stay:
Lazy Bear Cabin – There’s no shortage of excellent Airbnbs in Wisconsin Dells.
This three-bedroom, two-bathroom, spacious house can accommodate ten guests for Christmas-themed fun in Wisconsin.
It features a spacious interior with a simple, cozy design, as well as a detached game room and several TVs to keep entertained during long winter evenings!
The house is conveniently located a few minutes’ walk away from the shops, restaurants, and attractions of Downtown Wisconsin Dells.
Staying in Airbnb’s in Wisconsin Dells is a great way to experience the essence of the city. – Check prices here
24. Elkhart Lake
Located in Sheboygan County, Elkhart Lake is home to The Old World Christmas Market, a unique and eclectic seasonal collection of shops and stalls offering gifts and trinkets from Europe.
The Market also features authentic European food and drink, as well as entertainment.
In addition to the Market, there is an annual event in Elkhart Lake called Christmas in the Square.
For one day in late November, the village square is transformed into a holiday wonderland, with live entertainment, a tree lighting ceremony, and wagon rides.
Where to stay:
Modern Lake Home Cottage – Accommodating up to six guests, this apartment is a great choice both for couples on a Christmas getaway and for families looking to have some festive fun together.
The apartment is located in Downtown Elkhart Lake, a short walk away from restaurants and shops and the village’s Christmas events.
Despite its modern style, the interior is very spacious and has a warm, homely atmosphere. – Check rates here
25. Ripon
The small city of Ripon in Fond du Lac County hosts an annual Christmas in the Village event.
It features a weekend of Christmas fun in a picturesque setting, lavishly decorated for the holidays.
Christmas in the Village includes holiday music, plenty of shopping opportunities, authentic local food and drink, and perhaps most exciting of all, the chance to see live reindeer!
Ripon is also home to another holiday celebration: Dickens of a Christmas.
In Ripon’s historic downtown, this event will transport you into the Victorian era, with carolers, old-timey shops, themed activities and contests, and a Living Windows display.
Where to stay:
Hip APT in Historic Downtown Ripon – With two bedrooms accommodating four guests, this modern, cozy apartment is an excellent choice for the holidays.
Both couples and small families looking to enjoy the Christmas season in Ripon will feel at home here.
Alongside the tasteful decor, the apartment benefits from its location.
It’s situated in the scenic, historic downtown area of the city, with plenty of shops, restaurants, and breweries just a 15-minute walk away. – Check rates here
26. Hudson
Located in St. Croix County, Hudson lies along the St. Croix River, which forms part of the border between Wisconsin and Minnesota.
During the Christmas period, Hudson lights up, and the city’s decorations are truly a sight to behold.
Whether you enjoy walking through Christmas lights displays or prefer a drive, Hudson’s got you covered with stunning displays in Lakefront Park.
To marvel at more Christmas decorations, visit Hudson’s window decorating contest. This is truly one of the best things to do in Hudson WI.
Where to stay:
Cozy Hudson Cottage – Bring your partner or friend to this rental home near Hudson’s Downtown. With one large bedroom, this property can accommodate six guests.
The luscious interior is outfitted with everything you could need during your Christmas-themed visit to Wisconsin.
Christmas shopping opportunities, restaurants, bars, and cafes in Downtown Hudson are only a 15-minute walk (or 3-minute drive) from the house. – Check rates here
27. Lake Geneva
There are always plenty of things to do in Lake Geneva, one of the most popular resort towns in Wisconsin, and Christmas is certainly no different!
Lake Geneva in winter is extra magical!
Hop on the Christmas-themed lake cruise, decked out with dozens of lights and decorations and featuring fun activities for kids and plenty of refreshments.
Marvel at the holiday lights displays and illuminated decorations all over town, and get a visit from Santa and his reindeer!
Lake Geneva is home to the annual Electric Christmas Parade, including dozens of illuminated floats with a different holiday-related theme each year.
Each resort also holds its own events, and there are always Christmas-themed shows to catch at the local theatres.
Please also make sure to check out the Christmas Decorations of the Grand Geneva Hotel. which is one of the best things to do in Lake Geneva.
Of course, you can’t miss the Lake Geneva Ice Castles, one of the most unique winter experiences anywhere in the USA!
Where to stay:
The Geneva Inn – If you’re wondering where to stay in Lake Geneva this Christmas, look no further.
This inn is near Lake Geneva, providing guests with a picturesque lake view. The hotel offers several amenities, including a terrace, a garden, and a fireplace in the lobby.
The rooms have premium bedding, air conditioning, and free WiFi. Additionally, the rooms feature thoughtful amenities to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay. – Check rates here
The city also offers some of the best luxury resorts in Wisconsin.
28. Stockholm
The small village of Stockholm in Pepin County, Wisconsin, was founded in the nineteenth century by settlers from Sweden, which is why it shares its name with the country’s capital.
However, the name is not the only Swedish about Stockholm, Wisconsin. Winter celebrations also have something to do with the Old Continent.
Stockholm’s residents celebrate Christmas for a whole month, by the Swedish tradition, arguably making the location the most unique Christmas town in Wisconsin.
These celebrations really are something special as the entire village comes together to create an all-encompassing Christmas atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy the decorations, wagon rides, unique shopping opportunities, meet St. Lucia, and take part in the Winter Solstice fire celebration!
Where to stay:
Beautiful Lake Cabin – Whether you’re considering a romantic Christmas couples getaway or a family holiday, this guesthouse will meet your expectations.
The location is just as beautiful as the house, with stunning views of the Mississippi River bluffs and Lake Pepin.
The guesthouse is only a short walk away from the village, with its month-long Christmas fun! – Check rates here
A Short FAQ about Christmas in Wisconsin
Where to see Christmas lights in Wisconsin?
If you want to see Christmas lights in Wisconsin you must visit places like Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, Milwaukee, Country Christmas, Pewaukee, WPS Garden Of Lights, Green Bay etc.
How long is Christmas break in Wisconsin?
Christmas break in Wisconsin is 10 days long for kids and 2 days as per federal holidays for office workers.
What are Christmas things to do in Wisconsin Dells?
Some of the best Christmas things to do in Wisconsin Dells are Christmas shopping, see Christmas lights and Christmas decorations, enjoy holiday music, authentic local food and drink, and see live reindeer!
What are the best December events in Wisconsin?
There are plenty of Christmas activities in Wisconsin all over the state. Some of the best are the Christmas Markets, light shows, Santa workshops and reindeer meets, plus plenty of Christmas Villages in the mountains.
What are the best places to go for Christmas in Wisconsin?
You’ll be able to have a great Christmas vacation in Wisconsin in any number of places. Popular spots include larger areas like Wisconsin Dells, Door County, Milwaukee, and Madison, as well as smaller communities like Ephraim, Somerset, and Chippewa Falls.
What are the best Christmas places in Wisconsin?
Some of the best Christmas places in Wisconsin include the charming holiday displays in Milwaukee’s Cathedral Square Park, the festive lights at Jellystone Park in Caledonia, and the enchanting Sam’s Christmas Village in Somerset.
What are the best Christmas events in Wisconsin?
The best Christmas events Wisconsin include the Milwaukee Holiday Lights Festival, seeing the Canadian Pacific Holiday Train, and the Santa Cycle Rampage, offering a variety of festive activities, light displays, and seasonal charm.
What are the best Christmas destinations in Wisconsin?
Some of the best Christmas destinations in Wisconsin include he festive city of Milwaukee hosting the Holiday Lights Festival, the beautiful Chippewa Falls, and the picturesque winter wonderland of Door County.
Can’t get enough of the 28 things to do in Wisconsin during Christmas time? Check out our webstory.
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
