Is It Wisconsin or Could We Be in Europe?

As we crossed the state line from Illinois into Wisconsin, towns on the map named Lake Como, Luxembourg and Denmark -- we had to ask ourselves...are we really in Wisconsin?  Taking our friend Donelle's advice, our first stop was Lake Geneva just north of the state line.  What a cute town so cute that we stayed two nights.  The Big Foot Beach State Park was well situated just on the town border so it was easy to bike into town.  We found a gem of a restaurant -- Simple.  Lance liked it so much that he insisted returning for breakfast the next day. 

Lake Geneva town beach

Lake Geneva is a weekend destination for a lot of people from the Chicago area.  It also was a summer spot for some of the early century tycoons who built beautiful homes along the lake.  Fortunately, there is a 21 mile long trail along the shore that winds through many of the beautiful homes and gardens. 

Lovely garden along the Lakeshore Trail

While we enjoyed our walk along the shore, it was a bit awkward walking through people's gardens.  And at times it was even intimidating when confronted with warning signs about big dogs!  But Fin loved every minute.

Beware of Big Dogs!

After Lake Geneva, we headed north to High Cliff State Park along the north-western corner of Lake Winnebago.  By then a cold front had blown in from Canada with much colder weather.  At night the temperature dipped below 50.  High Cliff offered some nice trails along the lake as well as along a massive limestone ledge from which there were gorgeous views looking west across the lake.

After a one night stay, we headed towards our prime destination -- Door County.  Along the way we dropped into Green Bay.  Lance insisted on driving past Lambeau Field where the Packers play.  We visited Krolls Tavern (a Green Bay tradition for 75 years) for some cheese kurds and a local tap.  Then onward to Door County.