Day Trippin’: Five Day Trips within 25 Miles of Cottage Grove

Of course, we love it when residents and visitors enjoy all that Cottage Grove has to offer – vibrant local businesses; abundant parks, recreation and natural resources; and community events that offer fun for the whole family.

In addition to all that happens right here, Cottage Grove is a great home base from which to check out a whole host of destinations within a short drive. Whether you live in Cottage Grove or are just visiting, these fantastic day trips offer all kinds of options to explore, from shopping and fine dining to trails, lakes and scenery.

Here are five fun destinations to visit within 25 miles of Cottage Grove:

1. Paoli. According to Discover Paoli, this little gem of a town 25 miles southwest of Cottage Grove boasts a historic main strip with dozens of shopping and dining choices. A highlight is the recently renovated Seven Acre Dairy nestled on the banks of the Sugar River, a popular destination in and of itself which runs right through town.

2. Lake Kegonsa State Park. For fun in all four seasons, take a quick trip to Lake Kegonsa State Park, a 342-acre State Park located on beautiful Lake Kegonsa between Stoughton and McFarland. The park offers seasonal & group camping, hiking, boating, swimming, playgrounds, fishing, cross country skiing, ski skating, sledding and more. Travel Wisconsin and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources have you covered with resources to plan your adventure.

3. Cambridge. A short 15-minute drive from Cottage Grove, Cambridge is another nearby small town with big offerings. Visit Cambridge catalogs dozens of different ways to “play, savor, shop and stay,” as well as complete listings of local community events.

4. Lake Mills. Hop on I-94 East for a short 20 minute drive to check out all that Lake Mills has to offer. The shores of Rock Lake and its surrounding areas are full of parks, including perennial favorite Sandy Beach. Plan your shopping and dining adventures ahead of time by checking out complete listings from Legendary Lake Mills, a Chamber “Main Street” organization.

5. Token Creek. Nature lovers can enjoy all the offerings of the 170-acre Token Creek Natural Resource Area, just 15 miles northwest of Cottage Grove. Natural resource areas are designated for the protection of a valuable natural environment, wildlife habitat and open spaces for all to enjoy. Token Creek, a designated trout stream, runs through the property and offers outstanding trout fishing.

No matter where your travels take you, we’re always welcome to ready you back to your home in Cottage Grove. Enjoy nature, explore new shops and pick a delectable dinner spot – and we will see you back here soon!