Top Things to Do in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin

The spring-fed, blue-green lake calls to paddlers, sailors, fishermen, water skiiers and more. Explore on your own or rent a boat from one of several area businesses. 

Just northwest of town, find hundreds of miles of trails for biking, hiking and running at Kettle Moraine. The popular 3.5-mile Parnell Tower Trail incudes an observation tower with views of the glacier-carved terrain.

Work and learn under the guidance of an expert chef at the Osthoff Resort. 

A world-renowned 4-mile racetrack draws visitors and has been a favorite of racers (and racing fans) since it opened in 1955. 

Shopping in Elkhart Lake should include a stop here, where works from regional and national artists are displayed in a Mission-style bungalow.

In Greenbush, about 12 miles southeast of Elkhart Lake, costumed interpreters lead tours of a 19th-century stagecoach inn and visitors explore a carriage museum. 

Gorgeous lake views and alfresco dining complement great drinks, pizzas and pasta at the Tiki Bar. 

The casual dining side at Lake Street offers funky, beer-inspired decor and wood-fired pizzas; the fine-dining side has one of Wisconsin's longest wine lists and entrees like sesame-seared tuna. 

Enjoy breakfast and lunch sandwiches with names like Signal Box Tuna Melt and Flying Scotsman Bagel in Elkhart's original depot. 

The seasonal menu at this fine-dining destination tends toward European, with dishes such as grilled hanger steak with red wine veal sauce.

Racing memorabilia decorates the walls at this Siebkens Resort spot, considered the best bar on the racing circuit. Check the website for the live entertainment schedule. 

Adults enjoy chakra balancing at Aspira Spa and lakefront lodging at the Osthoff; families appreciate kid-friendly events (crafts classes, teen yoga). 

It's the go-to hangout for the racing crowd, with a condo hotel that offers elegant, Prairie-style units with fireplaces, full kitchens and balconies.

For more information visit elkhartlake.com