Disclosure: Grand Island Tourism sponsored my visit. However, all opinions and photos are mine.
Grand Island, Nebraska, is best known for the Sandhill Crane migration each spring, but it’s also home to a variety of attractions that make it a worthy destination at other times of year.
From a luxurious Grand Island Casino Resort and the Nebraska State Fair to the Stuhr Museum, I found plenty of reasons to appreciate Nebraska’s favorite island.
My weekend experiences, whether relaxing poolside or indulging in sweet corn ice cream at the fair, proved that the town really is grand.
Grand Island, Nebraska: Top Things To Do During an Overnight Stay
Located 94 miles west of Lincoln and 87 miles from the Kansas border, Grand Island is a sure bet if you’re seeking a getaway as a couple or with friends or family.
LUXURIOUS LODGING & SPA
Grand Island Casino & Resort
As soon as I entered the seven-story Grand Island Casino & Resort (777 E. Fonner Park Rd.), I knew I was in for a treat.
Casino
A beautiful crystal chandelier and a vibrant casino floor welcomed me. The electronic chiming of more than 750 slot machines played over the sound of resort visitors checking in.
Although I’m not much of a gambler, I love the energy of a casino. The lights, the sounds, and witnessing someone hit a jackpot create an unmistakably fun atmosphere.
The casino’s design reminded me of a high-end gaming floor in Vegas. Spacious, high-end finishes, and a gaming floor flanked by a private poker room and Draft Day Sports Lounge.
I had the best time people-watching between sips of wine at the sports lounge, where diners enjoyed sports-bar menu favorites like pizza and burgers while watching televised games.
The friendly bar manager and I chatted casually about the resort before I departed to check into my Deluxe King hotel room.
The resort’s guest rooms are anything but standard. From the gold-detailed furniture to the soft, pillow-top bed, each in-room amenity exceeded my expectations.
White quartz countertops and a spacious, walk-in shower with strong water pressure were bonuses. Complimentary bottled water, a premium coffee station, and high-speed WiFi made me want to book an extra night.
Ruthie’s Steak & Seafood
The top-floor, fine-dining restaurant, Ruthie’s Steak & Seafood, is so beloved that reservations are recommended.
Bob, the host in a full suit, gave me the warmest welcome by saying, “I have the perfect table for you,” as he walked me to a U-shaped booth with views of the Fonner Park horse racing track.
An Old Fashioned cocktail, made with Maker’s 46, set the tone for my first course, an order of steaming hot French Onion Soup served with complimentary sliced bread and flavored butter spreads.
Because they’re known for the finest cuts of Midwest steaks, I chose the Filet Medallions and Shrimp served over creamy mashed potatoes and topped with onion strings.
The indulgent meal lived up to the resort’s reputation as a higher-end experience, both rich in taste and layered with flavor.
Other guests sipped wine and cocktails over dinner while the sunset cast a warm glow over the dining room. I heard the pop sound of a champagne cork, and guests exclaimed, “Hooray!”
PRO TIP: Reserve a table for the restaurant’s Sunday Buffet served from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring an omelet station, fresh seafood, and more.
The Spa
The Spa is your private escape to a tranquil setting. Open six days a week, guests must request an appointment in advance for rejuvenating beauty and wellness services.
I pampered myself with a 90-minute Customizable Facial, and like any service, it included access to the jetted hot tub, scented ice room, and infrared dry sauna.
My aesthetician did a remarkable job analyzing my skin and treating it with the utmost care using Eminence® products. A scalp massage concluded the treatment.
If you’re seeking massage therapy, they offer a Custom Massage, Deep Tissue, and Maternity Massage. Body treatments intended to exfoliate and renew one’s skin are also available.
You could make an entire day of your spa experience by adding a waxing or nail service.
PRO TIP: If you want to schedule multiple services, call more than two weeks in advance. Pack a tote bag with a swimsuit.
Swimming Pools & Hot Tub
You’ll want to ask for a wristband when you check-in at the hotel desk to gain access to the resort’s indoor/outdoor swimming pools and hot tub.
Pool cabanas are first-come, first-served, but I chose a quiet lounge chair area where I could close my eyes and reflect on the day.
Kids splashed in the shallow end as families looked on. Two teenage boys tossed a football. What was mostly a family pool area turned into an adult-only hangout as the sun set.
Fonner Park Thoroughbred Racing
If you visit the resort for the twelve weeks between February and May, you can watch horses race around the Fonner Park dirt track.
Access the racing season calendar and seating charts here.
The Gift Shop
A visit to Grand Island Casino Resort wouldn’t be complete without selecting a travel souvenir at the first-floor The Gift Shop.
I spotted well-known brands like Stanley®, apparel, and sunglasses that would appeal to most adult shoppers. They sell magnets and postcards, too.
BONUS SERVICES: 22 & Vine serves bistro cuisine. A nearby coffee counter serves Starbucks® beverages and grab-and-go food items.
MUST-SEE MAGNIFICENT MUSEUM
Stuhr Museum & Railroad Town
I’ve toured the Stuhr Museum & Railroad Town (3133 W US Hwy 34) not once, but twice over the years because it’s fascinating and I appreciate learning new facts about Nebraska’s history.
The museum sits on an island and is considered the “Gem of the Prairie” between Lincoln and Denver.
The first floor displays renowned artwork, and the second floor contains historic artifacts.
To fully appreciate a town, you have to uncover its history, and the upstairs exhibits dating back to the 1800s highlight the impact of the agriculture and railroad industries on Grand Island.
Before exiting, I never miss a chance to shop at Prairie Treasures Gift Shop for Grand Island souvenirs and Midwest-inspired artwork.
Across the street, the Fonner Rotunda is a must-visit second museum, worth a tour before you take a self-guided walk through Railroad Town.
Often overlooked, it houses some of the most stunning Native American collections and Western cowboy artifacts curated by Nebraskans.
Railroad Town consists of original buildings that show what life was like on the prairie in the late 1800s.
As you enter some of the historic homes, don’t be surprised if you encounter a Railroad Town volunteer dressed in period clothing, busily working on a trade.
The homes’ interiors are fully furnished and include interpretive signage explaining the historical purpose of the items. Framed sepia-colored photographs show the family that once occupied the home.
The grounds include a bank, post office, general store, newspaper office, barn with farm equipment, and more.
There is nothing more satisfying than drinking a cold sarsaparilla at the General Store before heading out to see what the tradespeople are creating at the tin, wood, and blacksmith shops.
One of my favorite moments visiting Stuhr Museum and Railroad Town is appreciating the life-sized bronze sculptures by Nebraskan creators such as Dave Biehl and Benjamin Victor.
Stuhr Museum is open seven days a week, and Railroad Town is staffed daily from May 1st through mid-September each year. Exterior viewing is available year-round.
PRO TIP: Wear comfortable shoes for the self-guided tour of Railroad Town that sits on 40 acres of the greater 206-acre complex.
CAN’T MISS ANNUAL EVENT
Nebraska State Fair
Visiting the Nebraska State Fair is a rite of passage for locals, and it should be at the top of your must-do travel bucket list when visiting Grand Island from late August to early September.
The 11-day fair promises high-energy carnival rides and games, 4-H exhibits, food trucks, rodeo, live music, and plenty of hands-on activities that honor the state’s agricultural industry.
I’ve experienced fairs and festivals, but this one takes it to another level. The smell of roasted Nebraska corn on the cob and funnel cakes filled the air as rollercoaster riders squealed with delight.
The fair, which draws more than 300,000 attendees every year, was bustling, but it never felt too crowded as I navigated the grounds.
If you only have an afternoon to experience the fair, I recommend ordering a tasty, smoked brisket sandwich from Cactus Jacks.
Then, stop at the ice cream treats truck in front of the Raising Nebraska building to order a fair-famous Pineapple Whip dairy-free treat.
Inside the Raising Nebraska building, fairgoers can use interactive exhibits to learn about the state’s production of corn, milk, and meat.
Next door, the 4-H building houses ribbon-winning entries, and it’s home to the UNL Dairy Store. Step up to the counter and order a cup or cone of Nebraska-made ice cream for $6.
Bonus can’t-miss fair activities include Case IH® Combine Rides (they move fast!) and witnessing nature at its best inside the Tractor Supply® Birthing Center (baby animals!).
The end-of-summer fair’s ticket price is a value, considering the festivities include more than 5,000 hours of entertainment. Plan for next year’s Nebraska State Fair here.
PRO TIP: If you’re staying overnight at the Grand Island Casino Resort, you have a panoramic view of the fairgrounds at sunset from the outdoor swimming pool area.
MEMORABLE HISTORIC STOPS
Shady Bend Cafe
When I pulled up to Shady Bend Cafe (3609 Lincoln Hwy), I was met by a full parking lot of cars, and for good reason.
Now a diner serving comfort classics and lunch specials, the historic building, once a motel, is all that remains of Shady Bend Camp.
More than 30 cabins welcomed travelers to stay and view the buffalo herd. Original gas pumps sit in front of the building, and historic photographs hang on its interior walls.
Inside, friendly locals greeted me and quickly told me that guests seat themselves.
I claimed one of the last bar counter seats in the back of the dining room, across from shelves of canned goods. Apparently, I was sitting in a seat marked “Earl,” a relic from an earlier time.
A connoisseur of Reuben sandwiches, I’d give my lunch sandwich top marks, although the crinkle-cut fries were standard.
Most lunch customers visit the salad-and-soup bar.
PRO TIP: Take a gander at the dessert case before you order. Pie is sold by the slice.
Kensinger Service & Supply
Across the highway from the diner is another historic building worth stopping to appreciate, and if you need to fuel up your vehicle, you’re in luck: Kensinger Service & Supply (1810 E. US Highway 30) is open six days a week.
The gas pumps, neon sign, and historic Lincoln Highway concrete marker date the full-service station to its 1936 construction.
Filling station employees are fourth-generation family members who will pump your gas, clean your windshield, and, if you arrive in the morning hours, offer you a free cup of coffee.
The Seedling Mile
Located directly behind Kensinger Service & Supply is The Seedling Mile historical marker, designating a section of Lincoln Highway completed in 1915.
The concrete road was a toll-free, transcontinental highway from New York City to San Francisco. This section is the only remaining one of the concrete Seedling Mile project.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Nebraska’s favorite island is a place to make memories.
I’ll never forget how I felt zipping around in a harvest combine or watching as a crowd gathered around a street performer at the Nebraska State Fair.
Grand Island Casino Resort offered me a relaxing, luxury hotel experience that you don’t find in most Midwest communities.
And as they say, the residents are “Nebraska Nice,” which is probably the best part of visiting Grand Island.
Ready to extend your road trip? Consider driving Southwest on Interstate 30 to Kearney, Nebraska. My guide Things to Do From Downtown Boutiques To Breweries makes the 51-minute trip worth it.
From catching a live concert at The Fox Theatre to sipping wine or browsing the
And the historic neighborhood is the ideal place to take a self-guided tour. A stop on the 
After my stay, it was easy to understand why guest book entries raved about the property and why it’s rated on 
I curled up with a blanket to watch a movie on the large sectional sofa using available Roku streaming, a comfy place to unwind when I wasn’t exploring Downtown Hays. The owner even left microwave popcorn and a handwritten note thanking me for “popping in” at Walnut Wonder.
The home’s amenities are top-notch, and because the hosts considered a guest’s stay, I didn’t need anything. If you’re seeking like-home lodging with comfortable amenities, reserve 
I appreciate when a clothier thoughtfully selects on-trend women’s apparel brands, and Simply Charmed carries a range of sizes up to 2X. Shopping for your children or grandkids? Pair a coveted Jellycat stuffed animal with an outfit as a gift. Sizes range from newborn to 7.
Refine is one of 115 national Liverpool destination stores that carry the jeans brand, One can expect to find clothing sizes 2-16, handbags, and shoes by well-known names such as Joseph Ribkoff, Katie Loxton, and Sorel.
The owner informed me she is closing her doors in January 2026, so she is offering mega discounts on select inventory items housed in a showroom upstairs. In the meantime, one can shop for seasonal decor or gifts for special occasions during regular business hours.
Beautiful, shimmering diamonds captured the overhead lights from beneath glass. The men’s wedding bands, available in a range of styles and metals, equally garnered the attention of shoppers. Couples hoping to find the perfect engagement rings and wedding bands will be pleased with the jewelry options.
I was impressed with how well the volunteers organized the inventory by category: clothing, household items, books, toys, and seasonal costumes and decorations.
Customers eagerly filled carts with donated garments and household supplies as I walked the aisles. A little girl tested out a small bicycle while a mother and son searched for pants in his size. Expect the store to be particularly busy on Saturdays.
If you think you know what you want but need design advice, Karen and her team are happy to chat with you in the Design Room with access to fabric and wood samples.
Aside from offering long-arm quilting services and classes, shoppers will be delighted to discover kits, fabric, batting, notions, thread, and patterns available for purchase.
I stopped by to select Le Grand chocolate truffles after a day of shopping downtown. The staff eagerly told me their favorite flavors, which were tempting, but I settled on a delectable white chocolate apple pie truffle.
The store’s candy bouquets include a variety of chocolate bars and hard candy designed for the sweet tooth in your life.
Instead of men skipping a Main Street shopping experience, the store caters to them with a wide selection of casual wear suitable for any season. Also, the store doubles as a tuxedo rental shop for one’s more formal occasions.
Donated furniture is restored and improved to become one-of-a-kind pieces. Beautiful artwork is created for the home. Each purchased piece is a compliment to the individuals who create them.
New products are added weekly. Women who prefer to shop for the latest in women’s fashions online can do so via the 
The shop’s owner had such success with her online shop that she decided to open a downtown Hays location. Trust me, you’ll want to swap your closet staples for selections from Azalea’s Avenue Boutique.
While sipping a Wicked Pickle Bloody Mary, the sound of the doorbell chimed as small groups arrived to dine. If you prefer lunch fare, order a sandwich with Kettle® chips to enjoy al fresco at a patio table.
While the French Onion Soup’s caramelized onions with cheese in a beef broth were rich in flavor, it was served so hot that I needed to wait to eat it. The refreshing pomegranate mocktail cooled my palate.
My order of Tacos De Barbacoa was served with tender, shredded beef, which I topped with an avocado cream sauce. I’m eager to return for dinner to try the day’s special with one of the five margaritas available.
PRO TIP: Don’t leave without eating dessert. The Tres Leches cake is a shareable, moist slice of heaven served with drizzled chocolate sauce.
I started my meal with appetizers: crab rangoon and salted edamame, followed by the day’s special, Golden State Rolls.
The crab-stuffed sushi rolls were presented on a dinner-size plate drizzled with eel sauce and Japanese mayonnaise. Each roll was large enough that I had to cut it in half.
The night of a concert at The Fox Theatre, I found one seat left at the bar for a pre-show German-style ale. Steaks, pasta dishes, and chicken entrees dominate the menu. I recommend the Smothered Bierock served with chips, a must if visiting Kansas for the first time.
Create your ice cream combination or order from a menu of signature selections. When in doubt, order the Founder’s Favorite®, and then watch as an employee mixes pecans, brownie, fudge, and caramel into sweet cream vanilla ice cream on a cold granite table.
During November, the Hays Arts Council hosts Block Party on the Bricks, an art auction featuring live music and art demonstrations to fundraise. At springtime, the galleries feature the Smoky Hill juried exhibition, which is an anchor event for the Spring Art Work.
The owner provides 
The multi-level building houses a spacious art gallery, and patrons are welcomed to help themselves to complimentary coffee while lounging with a book or magazine in a sun-drenched window seat.
PRO TIP: If you’re a Kansan or curious about the state’s history, venture downtown stairs to the Kansas Room. It contains a large inventory of books about the Sunflower State.
Other services provided at the spa include facials, light therapy, laser hair removal and waxing as well as lip fillers and Botox. View the services and reserve an appointment 
I photographed most of them while walking downtown, but you’ll likely want to drive to the few murals that are painted on buildings beyond Main Street.
Use the 
Over the years, I’ve increasingly loved his work, noticing how many of Felten’s masterpieces showcase animals, often tucked away at a sculpture’s base or hidden from view in the back.
You’ll be amazed at the Hays artist’s handiwork using a hammer and chisel to carefully carve away limestone sourced from the region. Learn about 28 sculptures in Hays and surrounding towns and view a map 
Supporting local is paramount for me, which is why I chose to get to know the Svaty’s Produce farm family before buying a melon from them.
PRO TIP: Enjoy a complimentary cup of coffee, courtesy of 
They packed the theatre with country music fans on a lively Saturday night who sang along with hits from their album, Strange Hours.
Use the 
It’s worth hopping back into the car and making the short drive to 
Downtown Hays at The Bricks blends history and hospitality with a variety of entertaining things to do, proving that a small town can deliver big energy. It’s one of my favorite Kansas walkable districts for its shops, restaurants, and vibrant 
Upon arrival, I walked the downstairs parlor and adjacent dining room, admiring the owner’s meticulous restoration of turn-of-the-century woodwork.
The dining room’s tablescape was beautifully set with an artful arrangement of seasonal plates, flatware, and decorations. The owner prides herself on updating the table decorations often.
Original stained glass windows drew my eye to an ascending staircase, where private guest rooms awaited – each one named after a Bible verse. My queen bedroom, including a twin bed and private bathroom, was painted lavender and decorated with Victorian decorative touches, including handkerchiefs and florals.
After a restful night’s sleep, I joined other guests in the dining room for breakfast. The meal started with juice and coffee before a Monte Cristo-style croissant breakfast sandwich served with homemade jam was served.
Overall, my overnight stay at 
PRO TIP: You can choose to have your meal delivered to your room for an extra fee.
Dressed in protective gear, we laughed as splattered paint was flicked with careless abandon – unlike any paint studio experience I had yet. The session took about 30 minutes, and afterward, I left with a cute gift for my five-year-old niece.
The family-owned paint studio also offers walk-in and reservable paint-from-a-design sessions like Boozy Art Club Paint Night. The large rooms are ideal for hosting kids’ birthdays, double date nights, or gal pal parties. Artists can bring their own snacks and drinks, including wine and beer.
The size of the zoo and its variety of wildlife exceeds one’s expectations. While you can 
If you arrive during the animals’ breakfast feeding time, you’ll see an endangered black rhino, a main wolf, and an Amur Leopard actively moving about the enclosures. A Sarus Crane’s loud calls competed for my attention while a mal Addax African Lion roared his morning welcome atop a rock.
For me, the most enjoyable part of visiting a zoo is watching the giraffes. One reticulated giraffe in particular didn’t seem to mind me watching it strip bark from branches for several minutes before it joined its giraffe family.
You can expect to see native and exotic animals, ranging from the smallest invertebrates to large mammals. The river otters were not outdoors during my visit, so I can’t wait to return to see them at play in the water.
Then, work together to figure out codes that reveal clues or unlock boxes with additional clues. The key to escaping the room before the one-hour time limit expires is to keep it simple.
My group escaped the clock with 52 seconds to spare inside Sunken Secrets, a deep-sea research submersible in peril. The two-room submarine was well-designed and kept our attention through each step until we successfully resurfaced.
Afterward, we signed our group’s names on the wall with our ending time and snapped a photo to mark the occasion.
Meander into the main gallery to uncover historical facts about Buffalo Jones, a man who settled on 160 acres of ranch land in the area who worked with the town’s founders to convince two railroads, the Atchison-Topeka and the Santa Fe, to stop in Garden City.
Additionally, the staff is ready to assist you in creating aromatic bath products or a room spritzer at the Blending Bar. After a few minutes inside the retail store, you naturally feel your shoulders relax, and with the owner’s guidance, you learn what herbals and essential oils best suit your needs.
I thoroughly enjoyed a 60-minute relaxation massage, which included red light therapy to reduce pain and inflammation. Afterward, I felt less stressed and my mood lifted. My hope is that you make time for yourself as well.
My heart beat faster with excitement as I discovered item after item I wanted to purchase. Drink mixes, Kansas-made jarred products, lovely pillows, and jewelry with inspirational messaging. I left for home with a bag of goodies, and I suspect you will too.
If you’re unsure which scented body product to purchase, the owner will help you determine a signature scent. When in doubt, the most purchased soap fragrances are Black Raspberry Vanilla and Kansas Sunset. Each one smelled natural and not overly perfumey.
PRO TIP: Inquire about
In patriotic fashion, the courthouse lawn is also home to a Little Sisters of Liberty replica statue, one of over 200 like it across the United States. In 1950, the Boy Scouts of America local chapter installed it as part of a national crusade emphasizing liberty and freedom.
Across the street, an oversized rustic metal sculpture resembling a geometric buffalo stands at attention. Stop here for a quick photograph before exploring the rest of the downtown area’s sculptures.
PRO TIP: Garden City’s walkable historical home tour is worthy of consideration if you appreciate architecture. 
Look closely and you’ll see the stages of a butterfly’s life cycle. A local told me the city plans on adding an AI interactive component to the mural making it an engaging experience for those who stop to enjoy it.
Stop in to view current 
PRO TIP: Garden City organizes public works of art projects, and you can contribute to them, so be sure to view the gallery’s 
I love a carefully crafted cup of java (they use Kansas-made 
The cinnamon roll pancakes arrived stacked and covered with copious vanilla-flavored icing, which I’d recommend for diners with a sweet tooth.
Illuminated by sunshine from floor-to-ceiling windows facing the airport’s runway, the restaurant is also a go-to Sunday brunch destination. Seasonal menu items are highlighted on their 
Chomp chips while you peruse the six-page menu and listen to Mexican dance music over the speakers.
Whether you’re visiting Casa Mariachi for a lunch or dinner date or watching soccer while devouring a scrumptious meal, the festive vibe and menu selections deliver a party vibe.
Claim a booth or a counter barstool during lunch or dinner hours to order a made-to-order burger with fries and a thick chocolate malt or shake. I recommend sitting at the counter to see a view of the bustling kitchen staff.
Traditions Soda & Sandwich Shop remains a hometown favorite. Regular customers are recognized by name, and locals stop by for to-go orders. Not many old-fashioned soda fountain counters remain in Kansas, and this one is well worth the visit.
The house salad was good, and while I enjoyed the balsamic dressing and crunchy lettuce, it left me wishing it had less cheese and more sliced vegetables. But it was okay because the star of the dinner was the baked ziti pasta served bubbling hot.
The cheese stretched with every sauce-coated bite, making it a rave-worthy meal. Regretfully, I was too full from my meal to enjoy cheesecake or a cannoli, but that’s just another reason to return.
The brewery uses a large, on-site production facility. Three flagship pours are served on tap, and the remaining nine taps are reserved for rotators. The bartender told me the brewery’s gluten-free Wicked West Cider is popular with regulars.
The evening of my visit, an acoustic original songwriter sang while newcomers milled about chatting with friends. I appreciate the brewery wide selection of beer types choosing best-selling El Compadre, a adjunct lager, and maltier Irish ale, Clurichaun.
Whether you’re in the mood for on-the-water adventures or laid-back moments from a lounge chair, you’ve found the right place.
Elkhart Lake was once home to various hotels during its first 100 years. Now, tourists can choose from The Shore Club, Siebken’s Resort, and Osthoff Resort.
Open weave light fixtures, white-washed wood floors, and a neutral color palette added a Boho yet modern aesthetic to my room.
The Shore Club appeals to vacationers who seek a comfortable resort setting with on-site recreational options. A quaint lounge is a go-to space when enjoying complimentary grab-n-go breakfast items or coffee.
Every guest’s stay includes a massive arcade, indoor and outdoor swimming pool, a life-sized chess game, and a private beach with access to their world-famous 
While walking the property, I discovered multiple seating areas under a canopy of towering trees with colorful hydrangeas growing nearby. A campfire comes stocked with wood for an evening s’mores session.
The Shore Club provides rentable bikes if you like cruising between resorts or surrounding neighborhoods. If you need to reserve water sports equipment, ask about kayaks.
Accessing crystal-clear Elkhart Lake is as easy as walking across the street to a sandy beach where lounge chairs and beach drinks await you. At the 
I recommend ordering the Elkhart Blue, a shaken cocktail of lemon rum, orange bitters, curaçao, and pineapple juice. The color matches the ocean-like color of the lake. It went down smoothly and was all too easy to drink.
The waterfront bar is an active music venue from May to September, Thursday to Sunday, serving drinks, local beers, and pub grub overlooking 600 feet of sandy beach.
The resort’s speakeasy lounge, 
I couldn’t resist sipping a cocktail from an oversized leather chair before a crackling fireplace.
If you’re traveling with children ages 4-10 years old, they’ll appreciate complimentary access to 
For younger couples or retirees in search of kid-free spaces to unwind, the Osthoff Resorts caters to you as well. Play a round of 18 holes of 
While I didn’t stay overnight at the resort, I did tour it and can vouch for its luxury. From the imported Irish wool carpet to the high-end dining options, The Osthoff Resort impresses.
Since 1916 when Herman and Laura Siebken opened its doors, the property has maintained its old world hospitality (aka Gemütlichkeit) while catering to today’s modern traveler.
Rentable condos and hotel rooms are coveted by returning guests, so it’s advisable to reserve your room before peak season. Each guest has access to a private beach and pier, outdoor pool and spa, the 
While I wasn’t an overnight guest at Siebkens Resort, I dined at its restaurant and toured the property. It’s a remarkable place.
At 120 feet deep, the 292 acre lake is legendary. Early settlers, the Potawatomi Indians, thought the water had healing, restorative powers.
PRO TIP: 
In the mid 1950s, Clif Tufte organized a group and built a permanent racecourse, 
If you want to get behind the wheel rather than watch a race at the track, the two-hour 
As a passenger, I laughed until my sides hurt. It was a thrilling, fun adventure and the ideal way to see fall foliage in the area.
PRO TIP: Road America is open outside of racing season offering karting, driving schools, disc golf, and group adventure programs. Don’t forget to buy a souvenir at 
During the Italian cooking class, I worked with a small group to prepare three recipes: Risotto with Asparagus, Chicken Marsala, and Strawberry Cannoli.
Chef Rodney equipped each prep station in advance so we could use the two-hour class to learn how to prep and cook food. He was patient and kind answering questions from students. And the meal? Scrumptious, and oh so fancy.
My $15 pre-loaded card easily provided several 1 oz to 3 oz pours during a one-hour tasting session. I appreciated the tasting notes between bites of chocolates or truffle crackers while lounging on a comfy couch.
PRO TIP: The retail section of the store is a gourmet foodie’s heaven.
The menu on the day of our group’s visit included fresh guacamole with ribeye, a savory beef birria taco with dipping broth, apple arugula salad tossed with chipotle vinaigrette salad, roasted potatoes, and tres leches French toast.
The food truck sits underneath a colorful canopy of Mexican party banners and adjacent to a vibrant mural painted by 
PRO TIP: You can order from Amasa’s menu inside Lake Street Cafe during the winter months. 
The place is abuzz with visitors and regulars from April through December.
The executive chef served our group a family-style meal of appetizers and Cesar salad while each of us choose a dinner entree.
PRO TIP: Ask about the bar’s selection of Wisconsin speciality cocktails and craft beers. Preview the
The newest owners of the resort make sure that every ingredient, every plating, and every menu choice delivers the best dining experience and the kitchen staff make it happen. During a dining experience, the waitstaff caters to anticipates your every need.
While a seven course meal is an exceptional dining experience at P.A.M.’s, it purpose was to showcase some of the chef’s best dishes. The first course consisted of house-catered Henninging’s fried Wisconsin cheese curds followed by Caprese Di Manzo prepared with beef tenderloin.
A small bowl of Tomato Bisque made with roasted San Marzano tomatoes, Wisconsin cream, and balsamic reduction made the second course worthwhile. Followed by the famous P.A.M.’s Salad consisting of leafy greens, roasted squash, goat cheese, onion, and Marcona almonds, the second course’s salad was perfectly tossed with Siebkens Dressing.
For the dinner course, guests chose between three specialty entrees. My choice? Prime Rib presented with roasted broccolini on a bed of au jus and creamy horseradish. My tastebuds danced with each bite.
I couldn’t eat another bite when the final course, a plate of brownie bites, arrived. The meal was as memorable as it was delightful.
The tavern’s menu serves food Thursday-Sunday (hours vary) and the bar is open late. But you won’t find standard bar food at the Stop-Inn Tavern.
Menu items like Smoked Salmon Salad, Tacos de Hongo, and the infamous Siebkens Sandwich made with deli meat piled high with all the fixing on freshly baked sliced bread keep guests returning.
At 
With windows facing Elkhart Lake, our group savored lobster bisque, Caesar salad, and dinner entreés from a nice-looking dining room.
For dinner, I chose a perfectly seared 12 0z. ribeye plated on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes served with seasonal vegetables. The meal and the dinner service were impeccable.
They offer a wide range of body treatments and facials, and their newest Salt Therapy Room is considered one of the best in the country.
The 
Located near crystal-clear Elkhart Lake with views of cedar trees, the award-winning spa provides a serene setting to turn off the world’s chaos and unwind.
Use 
And you’ll find more than puffy jackets and flannel shirts for sale. Elkhart Lake Outfitters stocks everything from cookbooks and candles to bath salts and souvenirs.
PRO TIP: Plan to spend at least 30 minutes pursuing the shelves and racks.
Operated by a husband and wife duo, the property showcases each of their life-long talents.
PRO TIP: The gallery is open September – November on Friday and Saturdays and 
The boutique also sells the Aspira Spa Signature Product Line. If you love the body and facial products used in a spa treatment, purchase them to take home with you.
Not only is the operation led by a Wisconsin Master Cheesemaker, 
