Waupaca Honeymoons

Ideas & Inspiration

Waupaca Honeymoons

Talk with a couple about favorite Wisconsin getaways, and a few standbys figure prominently: Door County, the Apostle Islands, Lake Geneva, Eagle River, Wisconsin Dells. Not so often mentioned—but no less compelling—is the Waupaca/Chain O’ Lakes area, which blends waterside fun with historic charm. Sometimes the grand, secluded escape seems a bore. Waupaca provides the alternative: a casual and bustling, but not too touristy, lake cottage community.
    The greater Waupaca area, with about 16,000 residents, includes the city of Waupaca, the community of King, the tiny hamlet of Rural and the surrounding countryside, all about an hour and a half from both Milwaukee and Madison. Aside from the ubiquitous lakes, attractions include festivals, the Crystal River, extensive biking and hiking trails, not to mention a few Travel Green Wisconsin options. There are too many destinations to mention, but a few favorites are highlighted below.

Waupaca
    The city itself, featuring many historic Victorian buildings, is built around water; visitors can explore Shadow Lake and Mirror Lake as well as the Crystal and Waupaca rivers. The city hosts a popular sprint triathlon every August, which fills available accomodations, but there are always plenty of housing options. The Green Fountain Inn can serve as a dinner destination on Friday night or as quiet lodging if you’re looking for small but comfortable Victorian rooms. It’s also within walking distance to downtown Waupaca, surprisingly well-stocked with specialty shops. Off Main Street, follow a long, narrow staircase down to lower Cooper Street to arrive at the popular T.W. Martins Public House, just one of several local buildings on the National Historic Register. The restaurant features a hearty menu of burgers, Irish stew, steaks and salmon. 
    On the southeast edge of Waupaca is the Apple Tree Lane Bed and Breakfast, set on a former apple farm along the banks of the Crystal River. Another Victorian-style bed and breakfast, this inn provides comfortable rooms with private baths in a more rustic setting.