In the 1940s, residents of the glacier-formed hills between Madison and Milwaukee envisioned a scenic drive that would draw city folk to the region’s state parks and forests. Today, ubiquitous green acorn signs make navigation a snap. Highlights include a hike up Bald Bluff, a romp through history at Old World Wisconsin, a climb to the top of Holy Hill Basilica and a stay at the delightful Cold Spring Inn, hidden on 89 acres near Kettle Moraine State Forest.

Street scene The posh town of Delafield adds a splash of variety along an otherwise woodsy route. Stylish shops and galleries fill Colonial-style storefronts, and the chic restaurant Zin serves California-Italian cuisine worth a drive.

For maps and trip planning

Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive [1]