If you live in Chicago, you can drive anywhere in Illinois and discover a variety of charming destinations. Yet, have you ever considered traveling to Wisconsin? It can often be a quicker drive, especially considering that some Illinois towns are more than four hours away from Chicago.
There is one notable Wisconsin spot that is a must-visit for those looking for a different scene from Chicago—Burlington. This city has award-winning food, breweries along the river, and a vibrant art scene that will catch your attention.
Burlington, Wisconsin, is a must-visit
Situated on both the Fox River and Echo Lake, Burlington is surrounded by natural beauty, and its downtown area exudes nostalgic charm.
Although Burlington is officially a city, it retains a small-town persona, and it’s easy to become enchanted. You get a genuine sense of its Midwestern roots here, with 19th-century buildings. It’s easy to spend hours strolling around and popping into coffee shops and wine bars.
Burlington’s Thriving Art Scene
This city places a strong emphasis on its artists. The Malt House Theatre leads the way for the performing arts in a beautifully restored building, hosting “sip & sit concerts” and engaging live productions.
Additionally, Wehmhoff Square hosts art shows, live music, foodie festivals, and other community activities.
Given Burlington’s beauty, it’s only natural to spend time outside. Fortunately, the city offers many reasons to explore outside, such as Brown’s Lake, which is just a five-minute drive from the center. The spots are ideal for a picnic, kayaking, paddleboarding, and boating.
If you prefer to stay on dry land, wander through Echo Lake Park, which overlooks the Fox River. Or you can stroll through the Burlington Farmers’ Market, which takes place every Thursday from May to September.
You’ll find local growers and makers selling a variety of goods, along with handmade arts and crafts, as well as live music performances.
