Float the Wisconsin River This Summer

This summer is the perfect opportunity to get out on the water in Wisconsin. There are plenty of opportunities to do so, too!  From paddling the lower Wisconsin River and fishing on other lakes and streams, to white water rafting and playing at the Wisconsin Dells Water Parks, there's certainly no shortage of fun in the sun in Wisconsin. 

Travel disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic are keeping most of us close to home this summer. For Wisconsinites and others in nearby midwestern states, we're pretty lucky to have such a great range of places to explore and things to do, including paddling on the Lower Wisconsin State Riverway. We're also lucky to have so many wonderful Bed and Breakfasts to call home during these adventures, too!  

Not only are Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts a charming home away from home, but they are also the safer choice to make when it comes to travel this summer. Our Inns are the perfect alternative to big and impersonal hotel chains, where you're more than likely to encounter bigger crowds. 

This is a distinction that really matters right now, too. In a post-pandemic world, odds are you're going to be looking for someplace that is clean and as safe as possible; that's what you'll find at our Inns. Cleanliness has always been at the forefront of what we do at our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts, now more so than ever.  This summer, get out and explore this incredible state of ours! Book a room at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today!

Float the Lower Wisconsin River This Summer

A little vitamin D can go a long way this summer in terms of making us feel more energized!  And, of course, getting out on the water and doing things like floating, kayaking, or canoeing down the lower Wisconsin River can certainly be a welcome change of pace and scenery for many.  It's also an easy activity to enjoy with adequate social distancing, which really does making heading out on the Wisconsin River one of our most highly recommended activities this summer.

Paddling on the lower Wisconsin River is an activity loved by both locals and visitors to the state. It's easy to get started on an adventure, too.  The Lower Wisconsin State Riverway, which stretches from Prairie du Sac to Prairie du Chien, is an excellent place to start. For 92 miles, this stretch of river is pretty calm and enjoyable and has proven a great place for paddlers of all experience levels. 

The lower Wisconsin River is actually one of the longest free-flowing stretches of river in the upper Midwest, with no dams or rapids to contend with. There are also a lot of sandbars in the area, which make for delightful stops for picnics, playing in the water, and even camping. Not only is paddling down the lower Wisconsin River fun, but it's also exceptionally beautiful.  This stretch of the Wisconsin River travels through the Driftless Area, which a region characterized by dramatic bluffs, rolling hills, and densely forested canopies.

Given the river's popularity, there are a number of shuttles, outfitters, and numerous landings along the river to help make your trip easy and fun, as well as plenty of guides that will help you navigate your way down the river. Starting at Boscobel is a great way to ensure yourself a crowd-free stretch of the river, even on busy weekends. Another popular stretch of the lower Wisconsin River to kayak or canoe is between Afton and Spring Green.

More Great Rivers, Lakes, and Waterways in Wisconsin

Though paddling on the lower Wisconsin River is certainly something we recommend, it's not the only way to get out and enjoy the water in Wisconsin!  There are a number of other great lakes, rivers, and waterways worth exploring, too!  Here are 15 more great ways to enjoy the water in the beautiful state of Wisconsin! 

1. Kayak the Apostle Island National Lakeshore near Bayfield.
2. Chase waterfalls in Marinette County in northeastern Wisconsin.
3. Head to Waupaca and the Chain O'Lakes Region, where you can fish, waterski, jetski, paddle, or swim to your heart's content.
4. Go white water rafting. There are a number of great places for this adventure, including the Peshtigo River in Marinette County, and Whitewater Park in Wausau.
5. Kayak or standup paddleboard on Lake Mendota in Madison, with the dramatic cityscape setting the scene around you.
6. Go tubing down the Apple River near Hudson.
7. Paddle or float down the Kickapoo River near La Crosse.
8. Enjoy some fishing on Lake Michigan near Two Rivers, a historic fishing port.
9. Go sailing along the Door County Peninsula.
10. Go boating on Lake Winnebago near Oshkosh, Wisconsin's largest inland lake.
11. Enjoy birdwatching and spectacular scenery along Wisconsin's Great River Road, which meanders along the Mississippi River.
12. Enjoy a river cruise on the Mississippi River near La Crosse.
13. Enjoy some world-class trout fishing in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Popular destinations include the Kickapoo River, the Little La Crosse River, or Perch Lake in Sparta. 
14. Enjoy an afternoon of sailing, boating, or fishing on the crystal clear waters of Rock Lake near Lake Mills. 
15. Take a pontoon boat out, or rent a kayak or standup paddleboard and explore Lake Wissota near Chippewa Falls.

No matter how or where you choose to enjoy the water in Wisconsin, there's bound to be a great place to stay nearby.  Here are our Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts near these water-based attractions listed above. 

Seek the Unique at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast

"Seek the Unique" is more than just a slogan, it's our promise to you, and an apt description of what you'll find from our collection of Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts. While certain amenities do come standard at most Bed and Breakfasts, there is nothing "standard" about your stay, and we offer far more than just a comfortable bed to sleep on.  Choosing to stay at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfasts means your choosing an experience that goes beyond the ordinary. 

Our Innkeepers are local experts and passionate about not just their area but their hospitality.  You can expect nothing by the warmest welcome when you cross our thresholds. That hospitality extends to offering you a gracious and hearty breakfast in the morning.  Did we mention that most of our Innkeepers are true foodies, too? We love going the extra mile to craft delicious breakfasts each morning, which almost without fail use fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. 

Each of our member Inns is licensed and inspected, to ensure they meet our stringent standards, and which also guarantees you a safe and comfortable place to land as you explore this incredible state. Small, quaint, and far from ordinary; that's what it means to stay at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast.  Come join us this summer, and experience Wisconsin like never before. Book a room at a Wisconsin Bed and Breakfast today!