Why Wisconsin Is an Undiscovered Treasure Fit for Late Summer Lake Visits

by / ⠀Travel / September 5, 2025
As the summer season winds down, just enough for temperatures to remain warm yet inviting, time spent indoors dwindles, and lake days become plentiful. With September on the horizon, many outdoor enthusiasts seek the perfect spots to spend their evenings.   Although some regard Minnesota as the “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” its peaceful neighbor, Wisconsin, silently surpasses it with over 15,000 ponds, lagoons, and reservoirs spanning the state. Wisconsin From covered Wisconsin coves in the northern woods to small enclaves in the eastern cities, Wisconsin continues to serve as a sublime lakeside escape for all. For those planning a family trip, a romantic getaway, or an independent expedition, the state’s lakes await with open waters this September.

Why Wisconsin’s Hidden Gems Deserve Discovery

Contrary to the popularized saying, bigger isn’t always better. This sentiment remains true when considering the earthly wonders of often forgotten locations like Wisconsin’s Lake Towns.   While the better-known tourist hubs boast significant prominence and reach, some travelers prefer the offerings of a “secret spot” to the many areas crowded by overtourism.   Among Wisconsin’s most beloved, Delavan, Elkhart, and Namakagon take center stage.

Delavan Lake: A Tranquil Getaway With Resort-Level Comfort

Delavan Lake sits still, just an hour from Milwaukee and a mere hour and a half from Chicago. Acting as a relaxing alternative to the frequented Lake Geneva, Delavan sets up local shops and restaurants for cultured visitors, surrounding itself with beautiful countryside scenery and an energetic downtown haven.   Many guests may arrive with boating, fishing, and hiking hobbies, but often linger to experience the warm welcome from residents.  
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This lake town offers many lovely lodging options for those making more than a quick stop. While the city’s countless offerings are all worth writing home about, the two hospitable services that travelers admire most are Lake Lawn Resort and Delavan Lake Resort.   Lake Lawn Resort exudes a lively feel alongside access to the Calladora Spa, the Majestic Oaks Golf Course, and dining at 1878 on the Lake. Just down the lake, its sister property, Delavan Lake Resort, offers a cozier lodging experience while still giving guests the opportunity to enjoy Lake Lawn’s full range of amenities. Ultimately, the lake town blends movement and meditation with smaller circles of inviting inhabitants while maintaining a private identity that each new visitor can discover with satisfaction.

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Elkhart Lake: The Charm of a Tiny, Waterfront Town 

On the eastern side of Wisconsin, Elkhart Lake is a small city that offers an entirely novel lakeside encounter. Celebrated for its clear waters and the historic blocks that build the town’s magnetism, many find this place authentically picturesque. Within the community’s core, guests can visit cafes, shops, and cultural gatherings to explore the town’s past further while making plans for the future in its waters.   From boutique hotels and resorts to farm-to-table dining, Elkhart prioritizes hospitality and care, allowing newcomers to experience the state’s deliciously seasonal produce.   Even in Elkhart’s chillier September nights, the town’s warmth persists, making it a perfect place for visitors to spend the final days of summer.

Lake Namakagon: Wild, Wild Northern Wisconsin

Lake Namakagon nestles within the Chequamegon National Forest in the northernmost part of Wisconsin. It hugs hikers with pine trees and beautiful bodies of water.  
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Namakagon’s lake stretches across 3,200 acres, offering unforgettable exploration opportunities for seasoned adventurers. In addition to the popular September practices of canoeing and kayaking, guests can consider the town’s countless rustic and restful accommodations.   Organically designed for the solo traveler, Lake Namakagon is an ideal secret spot for those who adore everything from fireside storytelling to stargazing: a serene combination of peace and observation.

An Unmatched Encounter in Wisconsin’s September

As Wisconsin outshines its neighbors in lakes, beauty, and atmosphere, the state deserves the September spotlight as summer slows down.   Whether you seek coziness in Delavan Lake, historic appeal in Elkhart Lake, or the incredible wilderness in Lake Namakagon, Wisconsin can offer it all, putting your potential late summer woes on hold.   Visit Wisconsin this September and let the lakes unveil their enchantment, while warm weather prevails.  

About The Author

Brianna Kamienski is a highly-educated marketing writer with 4 degrees from Syracuse University. With a comprehensive understanding of communication theory, she's able to craft meaningful work that conveys what clients want to say to their clients. Brianna is the proud mother of two boys, Chase and Cooper.

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