At first glance, it may seem odd that a Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin is talking about weekend getaways from Michigan. But when you factor in quick trips across the lake on the Muskegon Ferry to Milwaukee, it makes more sense! If you find yourself longing for a trip that is fresh and exciting, skip the traffic and opt for the scenic and relaxing Muskegon Ferry ride across Lake Michigan. You may end in Milwaukee, but from there, you’re only a short drive to the most relaxing, couple-oriented Bed and Breakfast in Wisconsin!
The ferry from Muskegon to Milwaukee makes it easy to travel from Michigan to Wisconsin without the hassle of long drives. More importantly, hopping on for this unique ride across the lake lets your vacation begin the moment you step aboard. Once you arrive on the western shores of Lake Michigan, the charming communities just north of Milwaukee—West Bend, Cedarburg, and Port Washington—offer the perfect blend of small-town charm, upscale experiences, and outdoor beauty.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply carving out time to reconnect, this area is one of the best getaways from Michigan for couples craving relaxation, discovery, and a change of pace. In our quaint community of West Bend, you’ll find charming shops, great art galleries and museums, plenty of hiking trails, and cozy cafes. In the nearby historic town of Cedarburg, known for its restored limestone buildings, you’ll find great local wineries, quaint shops, and craft breweries, while Port Washington offers stunning lakeside views and a charming harbor for a sunset stroll.
These things are all fantastic, but the real reason to hop aboard the Muskegon Ferry and plan your getaway from Michigan to Wisconsin is the chance to unwind in style at our top-rated romantic getaway in Wisconsin. Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast, an upscale retreat tucked into the woods near West Bend, is a luxurious inn designed with romantic couples’ getaways in mind. Our Bed and Breakfast is known as one of the best romantic getaways in Wisconsin, offering elegant guest rooms with spa-like bathrooms, private forest views, and attention to every detail.
Whether savoring the gourmet breakfast, relaxing with an on-site massage or our complimentary spa experience, or simply enjoying each other’s company by the fireplace, our Inn provides a level of privacy and pampering that’s hard to beat. Just a short, scenic drive from the Muskegon ferry terminal in Milwaukee, it’s an ideal destination for couples seeking a romantic escape from Michigan. Don’t wait – book your couples getaway today!
Your Journey Begins: The Muskegon Ferry to Milwaukee
One of the most enjoyable and convenient ways to kick off your romantic getaway from Michigan is by boarding the Lake Express Ferry, which takes travelers across Lake Michigan from Muskegon, MI, to Milwaukee, WI. This high-speed Lake Michigan ferry provides a smooth, scenic ride across the lake, eliminating the long drive around through Chicago and adding a unique experience to your trip. The Muskegon Ferry ride takes approximately 2.5 hours and runs multiple times daily during the travel season, typically from spring through fall.
You’ll board the Muskegon to Milwaukee Ferry in Muskegon, Michigan. The Muskegon Ferry Terminal is located right in the heart of downtown. The Muskegon car ferry accommodates vehicles, so you can bring your own car to explore Wisconsin’s scenic towns and countryside. We recommend you buy your tickets to the Muskegon Ferry in advance, especially if you’re planning a couple’s getaway during peak travel weekends and the busy summer travel season. You’ll want to arrive at the ferry terminal (on either end) no less than an hour before departure to ensure smooth boarding. Boarding typically begins about 90 minutes before departure and ends 15 minutes before departure.
Once aboard the Muskegon Ferry, sit back and relax. This Lake Michigan Ferry is designed for comfort and convenience, with spacious indoor seating, an outdoor deck to take in the lake views as you travel, and an onboard Cafe serving snacks and beverages. It makes the journey feel more like the beginning of a vacation! As you head out of the Muskegon Ferry Terminal, you’ll pass by two gorgeous Lake Michigan lighthouses: the scenic Muskegon South Pierhead Lighthouse, and shortly afterward, the Muskegon South Breakwater Lighthouse.Â
Soon enough, you’ll be on the wide open waters of Lake Michigan, with nothing but these sparkling blue waters before you and the wind in your hair (if you’re outside!). The Lake Michigan Ferry cruises along at 40 MPH, and you can see from horizon to horizon on a clear day. Once you dock in Milwaukee, you’re less than an hour from some of the Midwest’s most charming towns—including Cedarburg, Port Washington, and of course, the peaceful forest hideaway that is Hidden Serenity Bed and Breakfast.
Things to Do in West Bend for a Romantic Couples Getaway
West Bend is one of Wisconsin’s best-kept secrets, and is perfect for couples who are looking for fun but relaxing getaways. Just a short drive from Milwaukee, and perfectly positioned for those arriving via the Muskegon Ferry, this charming town offers unique, elevated experiences for a memorable weekend.
Start your visit with a stroll along the Sculpture Walk at the West Bend Riverwalk, where public art and the peaceful Milwaukee River set the scene for a relaxing afternoon. Nearby, the Museum of Wisconsin Art (MOWA) offers an unexpected cultural highlight, featuring a striking modern building and a rotating collection celebrating artists from across the state. It’s a perfect date-day spot for couples who enjoy creativity and conversation.
If you’re looking for outdoor adventures, head to the Kettle Moraine State Forest – Northern Unit, just a short drive or bike ride from our Inn! This natural gem offers hiking and biking trails through glacial landscapes, with peaceful lakes and scenic overlooks ideal for a picnic or quiet moment together. There are plenty more ways to immerse yourselves in nature in the area, too, including visiting Lions Den Nature Preserve, Kohler Andrae State Park on the coast, or the Horicon Marsh Wildlife Area, among others.Â
Foodies will enjoy a romantic dinner at The Norbert, a stylish farm-to-table restaurant in downtown West Bend known for craft cocktails and seasonal ingredients, or perhaps one of our local Wisconsin Supper Clubs for a unique experience. If you’re up for it, venture afield to Cedaburg, where you can enjoy wine tasting at Cedar Creek Winery. And don’t forget to explore the local shops and markets, where you’ll find everything from hand-crafted chocolates to boutique home goods.
For a more luxurious touch to your couple’s getaway, spend some time in our onsite, complimentary spa, featuring a steam room, a cold deluge shower, a hot tub, and a sauna. Elevate this experience even further with a purchased couple’s massage, facial, or other add-on treatments. We also offer onsite activities like pickleball, forest bathing, a community firepit, and quiet nature trails.Â
Whether you’re here for relaxation, exploration, or a little bit of both, West Bend’s blend of natural beauty, sophisticated charm, and Midwest hospitality makes it one of the most unique and romantic towns to visit after arriving via the Muskegon Ferry from Michigan to Wisconsin. With so many ways to reconnect and unwind, it’s no wonder this area is a favorite for couples getaways in Wisconsin. Book your stay today!
