Elkhorn Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, things to do, and where to stay in Elkhorn, Wisconsin. Read our guide now!


Introduction to Elkhorn

Nestled in Walworth County, Southeast Wisconsin, Elkhorn is a dream destination for those who love to explore quaint and beautiful places. It is a small city with a population of 10,000, known for its rich history, outdoor recreation activities, and local cuisine. The town got its name from Indian Chief Big Foot, who was shot dead at the site of the present-day Elkhorn City Park.

It is home to some exciting and unique tourist destination that caters to the interests of all kinds of travelers. The following guide highlights some of the best places to visit, food to try, hikes to take, and things to buy in Elkhorn.

List of Places to Visit in Elkhorn

Here are some of the must-visit attractions of Elkhorn:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Walworth County Historical Society Museum: It is a local history museum that features exhibits related to the history of the county. It is a perfect place to learn about Elkhorn’s local history and culture, and its significance in Wisconsin.

  • Webster House Museum: This beautiful house is a historic structure that gives an insight into the way of life in the 19th century. It is a must-visit destination for history buffs who like to explore unique and well-maintained heritage sites.

  • Little Red Schoolhouse: It is a one-room schoolhouse that depicts the life of students from the early 20th century. This historic schoolhouse is a preserved landmark registered on the National Register of Historic Places.

Natural Attractions of Elkhorn: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Kettle Moraine State Forest: It is a paradise for nature lovers who love hiking, camping, fishing, hunting, and wildlife watching. The park has multiple areas with different amenities and camping opportunities.

  • Bohner’s Lake: It is an all-year-round recreational lake that facilitates swimming, fishing, boating, and paddleboarding. The lake is surrounded by picnic spots, parks, and playgrounds, perfect for a family outing.

  • Gibbs Lake County Park: It is a rustic park that offers a serene environment for hiking, mushroom hunting, and bird watching. The park has multiple trails and picnic areas that let you get close to nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Elkhorn

Elkhorn has some of the best hiking and biking trails in the state. Here is a list of some of the best hiking and biking routes of Elkhorn:

  • Southern Kettle Moraine State Forest Trails: The park has multiple trails that range from easy to moderate difficulty level. These trails offer scenic views, waterfalls, and wildflowers. They are perfect for bird watching, hiking, and biking.

  • Sunset Park Trail: It is a short scenic trail that features waterfall, wildlife, and stunning sunset views near a small lake. The park has picnic tables, grills, and playground equipment that cater to the needs of all age groups.

  • White River County Park: It is a beautiful park that offers hiking and cross-country skiing trails, perfect for adventure seekers. The park has a playground area, picnic shelters, and a pavilion that hosts public events.

Best Things to Do in Elkhorn: Activities and Tours

Elkhorn offers an array of fun activities and tours for visitors. Here’s a list of some of the best things to do in Elkhorn:

  • Elkhorn Antique Flea Market: It is a popular weekend flea market that attracts people from all over the country. The market has over 500 vendors who sell antiques, vintage clothes, household items, and furniture.

  • Elkhorn Ribfest: It is an annual festival that happens in August and serves some of the best BBQ ribs in the town. The festival also has live music performances and local vendors that sell food and souvenirs.

  • Lake Geneva Cruise Line: It is a beautiful lake that offers public cruises and private boat tours that cater to the needs of all kinds of travelers. You can enjoy a romantic dinner cruise, family-friendly tour, or a group party cruise on the lake.

  • East Troy Electric Railroad Museum: It is a railroad museum that features historic trolleys, a gift shop, and guided tours. It is a perfect place to learn about the history of rail transport in Wisconsin.

Week-Long Itinerary for Elkhorn

Day 1: Explore Walworth County Historical Society Museum and tour the historic district of Elkhorn.

Day 2: Hike the trails of Kettle Moraine State Forest and enjoy a picnic at Sunset Park.

Day 3: Visit Lake Geneva and take a private boat tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Line.

Day 4: Participate in local events like the Elkhorn Antique Flea Market or Elkhorn Ribfest.

Day 5: Explore Little Red Schoolhouse and White River County Park.

Day 6: Enjoy Bohner’s Lake and do some fishing or paddleboarding.

Day 7: Relax and unwind at your hotel or go for a scenic drive around the city.

Food and Drink Scene of Elkhorn

Elkhorn has some delicious restaurants and local food joints that cater to the needs of all kinds of travelers. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • BBQ Ribs at Ribfest: Elkhorn Ribfest serves some of the best BBQ ribs in the town. The ribs are slow-cooked, tender, and have a flavor that melts in your mouth.

  • Cheese Curds at Cenex: Cenex is a local gas station that serves some finger-licking-good cheese curds. The cheese curds are fresh, crispy, and are served hot with dipping sauce.

  • Fish Fry at The Spot: The Spot is a local joint that serves some of the best fish fry in Elkhorn. The fish fry is cooked to perfection, and the portions are generous.

Local Beverages

  • Local Craft Beer: Elkhorn has some famous breweries that serve local craft beer. The beer is handcrafted, has a unique flavor, and is brewed only with the freshest ingredients.

  • Wine at Staller Estate Winery: Staller Estate Winery is a beautiful winery that offers wine tasting and tours. The winery grows only cold-hardy grape varietals, providing a unique taste to the wine.

Where to Stay in Elkhorn: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Elkhorn has many accommodation options that cater to the needs of all kinds of travelers. Here are some of the best places to stay in Elkhorn:

  • Hampton Inn Elkhorn: It is a pet-friendly hotel that offers comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and a fitness center.

  • AmericInn Lodge & Suites Elkhorn: It is a budget-friendly hotel that offers an indoor pool, free breakfast, and free Wi-Fi.

  • Lake Lawn Resort: It is a luxury resort that offers a private beach, golf course, spa, and fitness center. It is perfect for couples, families, and groups.

What to Buy in Elkhorn: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Elkhorn has many souvenir shops and local stores that sell unique and handmade products. Here are some of the best things to buy in Elkhorn:

  • Elkhorn Antiques and Flea Market: It is a perfect place to buy unique antiques, vintage clothes, and household items that give a glimpse of the past.

  • Fritz’s Wooden Nickel: They offer handmade wooden toys, custom furniture, and souvenirs that cater to the needs of all age groups.

  • The Chocolate Shoppe: It is a local candy store that offers hand-dipped chocolates, fudge, and other candies that are perfect for a sweet tooth.

Local Culture and Customs of Elkhorn

Elkhorn is a small town that values its traditions and customs. Here are some cultural practices that you must be mindful of as a tourist.

  • Politeness: Elkhorn has a friendly community that treasures good manners and considerate behavior.

  • Respect for nature: Elkhorn is a city surrounded by natural beauty, and the locals take pride in keeping their city clean and green. Make sure to dispose of your trash responsibly.

  • Traditional events: Elkhorn hosts several traditional events and festivals throughout the year. Respect the customs and traditions of the town to have a memorable experience.

Best Time to Visit Elkhorn

The best time to visit Elkhorn is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild, and the outdoor activities are in full swing. The fall months of September to November offer scenic views of fall foliage and a vibrant cultural scene. Winter months of December to February are perfect for snow lovers and winter sports enthusiasts.

Do’s and Don’ts of Elkhorn

Do:

  • Do bring appropriate footwear and clothing for outdoor activities like hiking and biking.

  • Do respect the nature and wildlife of Elkhorn.

  • Do attend local events and festivals to experience the culture and traditions of Elkhorn.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter, and dispose of your trash responsibly.

  • Don’t disregard parking laws and regulations.

  • Don’t harm any animals or plants while exploring the beautiful natural surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Elkhorn

Elkhorn is generally a safe city. However, it is always advisable to take care of your belongings and avoid walking in dimly-lit areas at night.

Health in Elkhorn

Elkhorn has some quality medical facilities that cater to the needs of tourists. However, tourists are advised to bring their medication or prescriptions with them. It is also recommended to drink bottled water or purify the tap water before consumption.

Getting to Elkhorn: Transportation Options and Logistics

Elkhorn is accessible by multiple transportation options, including air, bus, and car.

Airports Near Elkhorn

The nearest airport to Elkhorn is Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport, which is about an hour’s drive away.

Bus Stations Near Elkhorn

Elkhorn is served by a local bus service, the Walworth County Transit.

Other Options

Elkhorn is best explored by car since the city is surrounded by natural beauty and scenic routes. Car rentals are readily available in the city center.

How to Get Around in Elkhorn

Elkhorn is a small town, and most of its tourist attractions are easily accessible on foot. However, renting a car is recommended to explore the natural beauty and surrounding areas.

Where to Go Next from Elkhorn: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions that you can plan to explore from Elkhorn:

  • Lake Geneva: It is a picturesque lake town that offers scenic views, outdoor activities, and local cuisine. It is located only 12 miles south of Elkhorn.

  • Janesville: It is a beautiful town that is famous for its historic architecture, museums, and parks. It is located 23 miles northeast of Elkhorn.

  • Milwaukee: It is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city that offers a mix of culture, history, and entertainment. It is located 50 miles north of Elkhorn.

Conclusion

Elkhorn, Wisconsin, is a beautiful town that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and local culture. It caters to the needs of all kinds of travelers, offering a wide range of activities, attractions, and cuisine. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to Elkhorn and encourages you to explore more this beautiful town has to offer.