Eastern Shores Gold Rush
4-Day Southeastern Wisconsin Adventure
Itinerary Summary
This four-day itinerary packs in a lot in Milwaukee and beyond. Groups will be captivated by attractions like the Civil War Museum, Milwaukee County Zoo and Boerner Botanical Gardens. They will enjoy an electric trolley ride, lake cruises and an orchard tour.
Day 1 – Kenosha & Milwaukee
Start your day in Kenosha at the Civil War Museum. Delve into the rich history of the Civil War era with interactive exhibits and personal stories that bring history to life.
Explore a world of wildlife with over 2,000 animals in beautifully crafted habitats at the Milwaukee County Zoo. Hop aboard the Zoo Tram for a guided tour around the grounds, then take some time to explore your favorite area—lions, tigers and bears, oh my. Feed the giraffes and say hello to the elephants.
Head to the serene Boerner Botanical Gardens. Stroll through the themed gardens, including the charming Rose Garden and tranquil Japanese Garden, taking in the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances.
Thousands of plants bring the seasons to life at the Botanical Gardens, with colorful and fragrant displays laid out in a variety of formal gardens. Explore a rose garden, peony garden and daylily garden; stroll under blossoming crabapples; and enjoy the view while at an event in the Garden Room. Boerner Botanical Gardens is located just 15 minutes outside of Milwaukee in the Village of Hales Corners.
If visiting the Milwaukee in the fall, check out the China Lights festival at Boerner Botanical Gardens featuring more the 40 stunning larger-than-life light displays.
Day 2 – Shores of Lake Geneva
Travel to Lake Geneva for a scenic boat ride with Lake Geneva Cruise Line around Geneva Lake to marvel at the beautiful homes and mansions built, some of them dating to the late 1800s and early 1900s. Stop at one of these beautiful homes, Black Point Estate, and explore the opulent Victorian mansion and its lush gardens, learning about the life of a 19th-century Chicago beer baron.
Day 3 – East Troy and Green Lake
This morning head to East Troy to experience a nostalgic journey on the historic East Troy Electric Railroad. Ride the vintage trolleys and explore the museum’s exhibits showcasing the rich history of electric railways. Stop at the Elegant Farmer to shop for Wisconsin cheeses, specialty products and the world-famous Apple Pie Baked in a Paper Bag.
We’ll continue on to the town of Green Lake for a serene evening on the shores of Green Lake and a scenic boat tour.
Day 4 – A Morning at Apple Holler
As you head home, stop at Apple Holler in Sturtevant for a tractor-drawn tour of the orchards, pick some fresh apples and visit the petting farm. Enjoy a delicious, home-cooked lunch in the cozy restaurant.
Pick-your-own apples, peaches and pears. Visitors will enjoy four seasons of family fun on our 78-acre farm. With tractor drawn hayrides, Family Fun Park fun, crazy corn maze, farm animal visits and more.
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