Things to Do in Summer
Experience Summer in Whitewater, WI
Summer is made for adventure in Whitewater. Long days and warm weather invite you to hit the trails, explore the Kettle Moraine State Forest, spend a day on the lake, or bike the scenic countryside. When it is time to slow down, explore downtown, grab a bite to eat, or catch a summer event.
Whether you're planning a day on the water, an outdoor adventure, a family getaway, or a relaxing weekend away, there are plenty of ways to make the most of summer in and around Whitewater.
Summer in Whitewater, WI
-
Spend a Day at the Lake
Soak up a Wisconsin summer at Whitewater Lake. Pack your beach bag, go for a swim, relax along the shore, or simply spend the afternoon enjoying the water and surrounding Kettle Moraine scenery.
-
Paddle the Lakes
Grab a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and get out on the water. Whitewater Lake and Rice Lake offer plenty of room to paddle, explore the shoreline, and enjoy a peaceful summer day. Kayak rentals are available at the Whitewater Lake Public Beach.
-
Hit the Hiking Trails
Lace up your hiking shoes and explore the trails around Whitewater. Hike through the Kettle Moraine State Forest, follow a segment of the Ice Age Trail, or enjoy a leisurely walk through Natureland County Park or the UW Whitewater Nature Preserve.
-
Explore on Two Wheels
Ride through forests, rolling hills, and scenic countryside around Whitewater. Take on the John Muir and Emma Carlin mountain bike trails in the Kettle Moraine State Forest or explore the area's quiet country roads by bike.
-
Cast a Line
Grab your fishing gear and spend a summer day by the water. Whitewater Lake, Rice Lake, Cravath Lake, and Trippe Lake offer plenty of opportunities to cast a line and enjoy the outdoors.
-
Camp Under the Stars
Turn your outdoor adventure into an overnight getaway. Set up camp in the Kettle Moraine State Forest and spend your evening around the campfire before falling asleep under the stars.
-
Pack a Picnic
Pack your favorite summer foods and find a scenic spot to enjoy them. Spread out a blanket along the lake, relax beneath the trees at a local park, or make a picnic part of your day exploring Whitewater.
-
Pick Your Own
Make a trip to the farm part of your summer adventure. Visit farms and orchards around Whitewater to pick seasonal fruits and produce, shop for local products, and enjoy a taste of the countryside.
-
Cool Off with a Treat
Nothing says summer like a cold treat on a warm day. Cool down with ice cream, a shake, or another sweet treat while exploring Whitewater.
-
Catch a Summer Concert
Enjoy live music on a warm summer evening in Whitewater. Pack a lawn chair or blanket and catch an outdoor concert, or head to a local restaurant or venue for live music throughout the season.
-
Shop the City Market
Spend a Tuesday evening at the Whitewater City Market. Browse local vendors, shop for fresh produce and handmade goods, grab something to eat, and enjoy a lively community atmosphere in downtown Whitewater.
Featured Itineraries
Looking for the perfect Wisconsin lake getaway? Whitewater Lake offers everything you need for a relaxing and adventure-filled weekend. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, paddling across clear waters, lounging on the beach, enjoying local restaurants, and experiencing the natural beauty of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit. Whether you're camping lakeside, staying at a nearby vacation rental, or simply visiting for the weekend, Whitewater Lake is the perfect destination to relax, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the outdoors.
Looking for an affordable getaway the whole family will love? Whitewater, WI is packed with easygoing adventures, outdoor fun, and plenty of spots to refuel between activities. Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, this family-friendly town makes it easy to slow down, explore, and enjoy time together.
Summer in Whitewater was made for you. Especially when that weekend is during Whitewater’s beloved multi-day 4th of July Festival. Whether you’re taking a weekend away to escape the hustle and bustle of the city or visiting for the magic of the festival, this itinerary will fill your time with all the summery goodness.
Fresh air, rolling hills, and endless opportunities for amazing adventures await you in Whitewater, WI! Pack your bag and grab your most adventurous friends for hours of outdoor play alongside the gorgeous natural landscapes of Wisconsin.
As a trail community snuggled up next to the Kettle Moraine State Forest, Whitewater offers plenty of hot spots for a winded hiker to rest & relax, refuel, and grab any gear you might need
Food lovers! What’s a vacation without trying out as much local flavor as possible? If you’re an adventurous eater, pack your loosest pants for all the good eats and drinks.
Itching to get out and about and to see if you can finally achieve that Hole in One? These Whitewater area golf courses are exceptional options in that they offer, not only everything beautiful about Wisconsin, but also great experiences for any skill level. So grab your clubs and make a weekend trip out of it!
A biking friendly area, Whitewater offers plenty of hot spots for a cyclist to rest & relax, repair their bike, and refuel their bodies.
Is there anything better than gettin’ cozy with your love? If mid-winter has caused a bit of cabin fever and you’re ready to take your S.O. on a date night that doesn’t involve snow pants, Discover Whitewater’s got your back. These 7 activities promise lots of fun and all the warmth!
If your perfect motorcycle road trip involves scenic, winding roads that take you away from people, cities, and traffic, then the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive and other Whitewater, WI area roads are for you. Aside from a little whip of a car, traveling these routes by motorcycle is the way to go. Use this guide for all the go-to spots and info for riders!
Featured Blogs
Whitewater is an outdoor recreation destination where forests, lakes, trails, and waterways come together to create unforgettable adventures. Nestled among the scenic landscapes of the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Southern Unit, Whitewater offers countless opportunities to hike, bike, paddle, swim, fish, and explore.
Looking for a summer getaway filled with simple outdoor fun? Whitewater, Wisconsin offers plenty of opportunities to slow down, unplug, and enjoy the season. From beach days and scenic bike rides to drive-in movies, vintage shopping, kayaking, and camping, Whitewater is the perfect destination for a nostalgic summer weekend.
Whether you are looking to listen to live music outdoors on a warm summer night or looking for something to do on cold winter night, there are plenty of live music venues in and around Whitewater, WI.
Experiencing end-of-summer blues? Perk up! We’ve got exactly what you need to complete your summer bucket list in Whitewater and beyond!
In Whitewater and surrounding areas, there's no shortage of fantastic ice cream spots. Whether you're a local or just passing through, these must-visit destinations offer the best frozen treats around!
Whether on a solo adventure, traveling with a family of 4, or off for the weekend with a big group of friends, one of these six campgrounds will suit your needs.
Whitewater is a haven for anglers and bowfishers alike. From small species like Bluegill all the way up to Largemouth Bass, these top 6 fishing spots are sure to deliver.
With over 20 parks to choose from, we've narrowed it down to the best 6 for picnics, fishing, hikes, & swimming in the Whitewater, WI area.
Looking for an adventure that pauses time and transports you away from the hustle and bustle? Load up your kayaks and head to oak-filled peninsula, Dr. O.R. Rice Memorial Picnic Area on Rice Lake.
Download a Visitor’s Guide
Start planning your fall trip to Whitewater with places to stay, things to do, restaurants, trails, attractions, and more.