Your fall guide to West Bend

Looking for an affordable fall getaway with all the amenities? Hop in the car and head to West Bend, where you’ll find great spots to take in fall colors, fun autumn events, welcoming places to stay and much more. Here’s how to make the most of your fall getaway.

Take in the fall colors

Discover some the prettiest scenery in southeastern Wisconsin in West Bend, a short 45-minute drive north of Milwaukee. When you’re downtown, take in the creativity of local, national and international artists along the West Bend Sculpture Walk, part of West Bend’s scenic Riverwalk on the Milwaukee River.

Just outside of town, hike part or all of the 25-mile Eisenbahn State Trail or explore the Glacial Blue Hills Recreation Area or the Northern Unit of the Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Looking for another way to get outside among the fall colors? Try geocaching! West Bend is the Midwest’s capital for this family-friendly high-tech treasure hunt, with more than 1,600 caches hidden within 10 miles of downtown.

Find an event

Celebrate the bounty of fall in West Bend. The Downtown West Bend West Bend Farmers’ Market takes place from 7:30 to 11am Saturdays through October at Old Settlers Park, 200 N. Main St. Pick up fresh produce, baked goods, plants, flowers, jams and other seasonal goodies from more than 80 vendors.

On October 11, dress up your kiddos in their Halloween best for trick-or-treating and other fun activities at West Bend’s Fall Fest. The event will also feature kid-friendly activities like face painting, balloon art and—new this year—pumpkin bowling.

See more West Bend events here.

Visit a museum

History lovers and art aficionados will find plenty to enjoy here, too. The Museum of Wisconsin Art, housed in a beautiful 32,000-square-foot complex near the Milwaukee River, is home to a collection of more than 5,000 works of contemporary and historic art by more than 350 artists. The Tower Heritage Center and the Old Sheriff’s Residence and Jail share the story of West Bend with engaging exhibits in a historic building from the 1800s.

Sit back and relax

After a day of exploration, kick off your shoes at one of West Bend’s friendly hotels, motels and bed & breakfasts.