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3 Amazing State Parks in Driving Distance of Milwaukee, WI

state parks near milwaukee wisconsin

Located just north of the Milwaukee city center, Mequon, WI, is a fantastic gateway for travelers wanting to visit the sprawling state parks that Wisconsin has to offer. Whether you are into boating, hiking, biking, or picnicking, we have put together some of our favorite destinations where you can spend a memorable weekend away from the city.

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1. Harrington Beach State Park

Sitting on the shores of Lake Michigan and open year-round between 6:00 am and 11:00 pm, Harrington Beach State Park is a well-known public recreation area among residents of Milwaukee, Mequon, and other towns and cities in eastern Wisconsin. Featuring a mile-long beach, this place is a fantastic spot for swimming, boating, kayaking, and other water activities.

Harrington Beach State Park was established in the 1990s and is managed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Encompassing a little over 700 acres, this place contains a white cedar swamp as well as a 26-acre lake. In 2009, a large family campground was established in the area, making it a great spot to spend a weekend away from the city. Getting here from Mequon takes about half an hour via route I-43.

2. Aztalan State Park

Added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1966, Aztalan State Park was established in what was once an important site for the Native American Mississippian tribes that lived in the area between the 10th and 13th centuries. Featuring a series of pyramid-shaped platform mounds, this state park is a wonderful spot to learn about the ancient culture of the region while taking in its beautiful natural scenery.

Aztalan State Park is located just under 60 miles west of downtown Mequon and can be reached in about one hour by car via route I-94. Besides the ancient mounds, this public recreation area features an extensive network of hiking trails, designated hunting grounds, picnic spots, and fishing areas.

3. Lake Kegonsa State Park

Offering a variety of recreational activities and covering an area of about 5,000 acres, Lake Kegonsa State Park is located about 85 miles west of the Mequon city center and is a fantastic weekend destination. Established in the early 1960s, this nature reserve features a fully equipped campground, swimming areas, fishing spots, a series of hiking and biking trails, and a public boat launch.

With its spacious and versatile cabin, four-wheel drive, and innovative technological features, the 2023 GMC Yukon is a fantastic vehicle to take your family on unforgettable adventures to the most beautiful destinations in Wisconsin and beyond. Stop by Sommer's Buick GMC today, check out this and other premium GMC models in our showroom, and talk to our friendly agents about the different financing options we have available for you.

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parks near milwaukee wisconsin

8 Favorite Local Parks Near Milwaukee, WI

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coffee shops near milwaukee wisconsiin

Drive on Over: 4 Favorite Coffee Shops Near Milwaukee, WI

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fall activities near milwaukee wisconsin

3 Fall Activities You Can Drive to From Milwaukee, WI

Exciting and fun fall activities abound in Mequon, WI. With its lush green landscape, crisp cool air, and stunning fall foliage, there's no shortage of things to do here this time of year. We've got the perfect fun activities to drive to from Mequon. Check out our recommendations below! Photo by: pixabay.com more Apple Picking at Orchard Hill Farms Orchard Hill Farms is a great place to pick apples in the fall. With over 50 varieties of apples, you're sure to find the perfect apple. You can enjoy the fresh air, beautiful views, and the harvest season in one place. This orchard is open daily, September through October, with a special fall hours schedule in October. Hours and availability vary, so be sure to check the website before planning a trip there. Orchard Hill Farms is about an hour's drive from Mequon. See the Fall Colors in Eagle, WI Eagle is a beautiful town just northwest of Mequon. It's famous for its stunning fall foliage. Every year, the leaves change to an assortment of reds, orange, rusts, and yellow. Eagle hosts the annual Fall Color Festival. This festival is a two-day event featuring live music, food, kayaking, and more. The main attraction, though, is the fall foliage. Make sure to check out the many walking trails and picturesque views of the changing leaves. Go Stargazing at the Stargazing Fest Head to the Wisconsin State Fair Park in West Allis, WI, for the Stargazing Fest. This event is all about stargazing and enjoying the wonders of the night sky. There will be a number of activities for people of all ages at this event. You can view the night sky through various telescopes. You can also participate in activities such as astronomy-themed crafts and games, a constellation challenge, and many more. The Stargazing Fest is a great event for the whole family. Visit Corn Mazes There are many corn mazes in the area that offer a fun time for all ages. The Mequon Community Park has a corn maze, hayride, and other activities for kids. It's also free! Or check out the Mukwonago Corn Maze, which allows you to pick your own pumpkin from their patch. You can even ride on an old-fashioned hayride pulled by an antique tractor or take a wagon ride through the maze. Find a new activity to try in one of Wisconsin's beautiful natural spaces. You'll be glad you did. Find the excitement in stylish comfort in a new Buick Encore GX and experience all the fun the region offers. Visit Sommer's Buick GMC for a closer look at the great lineup of sporty Buicks and drive away in your dream car.