Wisconsin Girls' Weekend: 2026 Winter Edition

So you're looking for a winter escape in Wisconsin? The middle of winter (Jan/Feb) is actually one of the best times for a girls' trip because the crowds are lower, the rates are often better, and our state leans hard into the "cozy" vibe.

Here are the top 4 itineraries based on what kind of weekend your group needs:

1. The Treat Yourself Spa Retreat

Destination: Wisconsin Dells or Kohler

If the goal is to wear a robe for 48 hours straight, this is your move.

• Stay:

  • Sundara Inn & Spa (Wisconsin Dells): Adult-only, silence-required areas, and a heated outdoor infinity pool that is magical in the snow.

  • The American Club (Kohler): Home to the Kohler Waters Spa. It’s 5-star luxury with hydrotherapy treatments that will make you forget it's 10 degrees outside.

• Do: Book spa services now (they fill up weeks in advance). Do a nice dinner at the Immigrant Restaurant (Kohler) or Field’s (Dells).

• Why Jan/Feb? There is nothing better than steaming hot water while snow falls around you.

2. The "Winter Wonderland" Adventure

Destination: Lake Geneva

If your group wants activity, energy, and a bustling downtown.

• The Big Event: Aim for Winterfest (Jan 28 - Feb 1, 2026). You can see the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship. The sculptures are massive and incredible.

• Stay: The Grand Geneva (great for skiing/snowboarding on site) or The Abbey Resort (great spa).

• Do: Rent "igloos" for outdoor dining at Pier 290 (Williams Bay) or The Baker House. Go skiing at The Mountain Top. Shop the boutiques on Main Street.

3. The "Cozy Cabin" Hygge Vibe

Destination: Door County (Fish Creek or Ephraim)

If you want fireplaces, wine, and quiet.

• The Vibe: Door County is sleepy in winter, but that's the charm. It’s incredibly peaceful.

• Stay: Rent a cottage or Airbnb with a fireplace. The White Gull Inn is a classic B&B option.

• Do:

  • Trolley Tours: The Door County Winter Wine Tour is a blast—a heated trolley takes you to local wineries and includes lunch.

  • Nature: Snowshoe at Peninsula State Park (rentals usually available nearby).

  • Eat: Grab the cherry-stuffed French Toast at White Gull Inn.

4. The "City Slicker" Shopping Trip

Destination: The Third Ward, Milwaukee

If you want no mud, great food, and plenty of shopping.

• Stay: The Kimpton Journeyman (trendy, great rooftop bar even in winter with heaters) or The Pfister (historic luxury).

• Do:

  • Shop: Walk the Historic Third Ward for local boutiques.

  • Eat: Milwaukee Public Market for lunch (everyone can grab what they want). Dinner at DanDan or Onesto.

  • Activity: "Candlelight Ski/Hike" events often happen at the Urban Ecology Center if you want a touch of nature without leaving the city.

❄️ Pro-Tips for the Group Chat:

• Book Dining Early: If you have a group of 6+, reservations are a must, especially for igloo dining in Lake Geneva.

• Check "Candlelight" Dates: Wisconsin State Parks host candlelight hikes/skiing on Saturday nights in Jan/Feb. It’s a magical (and cheap) group activity.

• Pack Layers: Indoor heating in WI can be tropical, even if it's sub-zero outside.

Need a quick vote?

• Relax: Kohler/Sundara

• Party/Activity: Lake Geneva

• Quiet/Scenic: Door County

• Shopping/Food: Milwaukee