Memorial Day Weekend Adventure in Wisconsin

Memorial Day Weekend: The Launchpad for Summer Adventure

Memorial Day weekend isn’t just another long weekend—it’s the turning point in the year. School’s out, winter coats are packed away, and suddenly, everyone’s asking the same thing:
“What should we do to kick off summer?”

For families, groups of friends, and couples across the Midwest, Memorial Day signals the official start of adventure season. But here’s the challenge: the best destinations fill up fast.

So if you want more than backyard BBQs or crowded beaches, this guide will show you how to plan a Memorial Day weekend that’s adrenaline-packed, memory-filled, and unlike anything you’ve done before.

Welcome to Wildman Adventure Resort—Wisconsin’s ultimate destination for multi-adventure getaways.

📍 Table of Contents

Why Memorial Day Weekend Is the Best Time to Travel

Seasonal Sweet Spot
Late May in Wisconsin hits the sweet spot—daytime temperatures average between 60 and 75°F, ideal for physical activities like hiking, ziplining, or paddling. The sun stays up longer, giving you plenty of daylight for multiple adventures.

Scenery That Pops
After months of snow and slush, the Peshtigo and Menominee River valleys erupt in lush green. Wildflowers bloom along the riverbanks. Birdsong fills the forest canopy. It’s like nature flipped a switch and said, “Let’s do this.”

Water Levels Are Peaking
Thanks to snowmelt and spring rains, both the Peshtigo and Menominee Rivers are typically at their most powerful during Memorial Day weekend. If you’re seeking whitewater thrills, there’s no better time—especially for the legendary Piers Gorge run.

Crowds Are Manageable
While Memorial Day weekend is busy, it’s still quieter than the July rush. Plus, Wildman’s spacious outposts and guided scheduling help avoid bottlenecks. You’ll get the energy of a holiday weekend without the chaos of a peak-season crowd.

Top Memorial Day Trip Ideas in the Midwest

If you live in Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, Minnesota, or Indiana, you’re within easy driving distance of one of the best-kept secrets in the Midwest adventure scene.

Here’s what people are doing to make the most of the long weekend:

1. - Whitewater rafting on Class III and IV rapids
  - Ziplining over forest canopies and river bluffs
  - Booking adventure packages instead of single activities
  - Staying in cabins, yurts, or riverside tents
  - Challenging themselves on high ropes, rock walls, or paintball courses

Wildman Adventure Resort: The Best Memorial Day Getaway in Wisconsin

📍 Located on the Peshtigo and Menominee Rivers, Wildman Adventure Resort is the only place in the Midwest where you can:

1. - Raft the two wildest rivers in the region
  - Zipline along the river
  - Rock climb in the morning and paintball in the afternoon
  - Stay in scenic, riverside lodging just steps from your next adventure

All tours are guided by trained pros—so you can feel confident even if it’s your first time in a raft or a harness.

Guests travel from Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Chicago, Minneapolis, and beyond to disconnect from devices and reconnect with the outdoors.

Outdoor Adventures That Redefine the Long Weekend

Menominee River Rafting

1. - Massive Class IV rapids
  - 10-foot drops through legendary Piers Gorge
  - Float sections and adrenaline surges in one ride

Peshtigo River Rafting

1. - Spring-fed and full of energy
  - Private riverfront access = rerun the rapids
  - Smaller groups, higher engagement

Ziplining Memorial Day Weekend

1. - Over 1,900 feet of high-speed canopy flight
  - Stunning views of the river below
  - Available as a stand-alone or bundle deal

Alpine Tower, Paintball & Rock Climbing

Multi-Activity Packages

💡 Did you know that over 50% of guests book more than one activity? Why? Because once you’re here, one thrill isn’t enough.

Weekend Action Adventure (Raft both rivers + Paintball)
Our most booked Memorial Day combo.

Mini Vacation (Raft both rivers + Paintball + Alpine Tower)
Perfect for a long weekend.

Four Day Adventure (Raft both rivers + paintball + Alpine Tower + lake kayak tour)
Come during the week and stay active in the outdoors.

Family-Friendly Memorial Day Vacation Ideas

Wildman is ideal for families with teens, preteens, and adventurous parents. Activities are guided, age-appropriate, and adaptable to all comfort levels.

Lodging is close to all activities
Guides are trained to support every skill level
Multi-day stays = more bonding, more s’mores, more stories

“We drove in from Chicago with our two boys (ages 14 and 17) and our daughter (12). We were nervous about rafting—none of us had done it before. But our guide made it feel totally approachable. We laughed the entire time. At one point, my teenager even said, ‘This is better than Six Flags.’ That’s when we knew we’d struck gold.”
— ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ The Ramirez Family

Where to Stay: Lodging Options for Every Comfort Level

Riverside Camping

1. - Real wilderness vibes
  - Access to showers and facilities
  - Stars overhead, river nearby

Deluxe Cabins

1. - Perfect for groups, couples, and comfort seekers
  - Heated with electricity & WiFi

Yurts & Tiny Homes

1. - Instagram-worthy interiors
  - Cozy for couples or small families

Nearby Hotel Partners

1. - Need full amenities? We’ve got connections

What to Pack & Pro Travel Tips

👉 Swimsuit + towel
👉 Closed-toe shoes for rafting/zipline
👉 Moisture-wicking layers
👉 Bug spray + sunscreen
👉 GoPro or waterproof phone case
👉 Snacks + water bottle
👉 An appetite for wildness

🔹 Pro Tip: Check your confirmation email. We include what’s provided and what’s not.

✅ Ready to Book? Here’s How to Lock in Your Spot

Wildman Adventure Resort fills fast for Memorial Day weekend—especially for multi-activity bookings.

🔗 Book your Memorial Day Adventure Now
🌟 Most guests book 2–3 months in advance
🛍️ Don’t wait—make this the summer you’ll talk about all year

❓ FAQs About Planning Your Memorial Day Adventure

Is whitewater rafting safe for first-timers?
Yes! All Wildman trips are guided by professionals. You’ll receive gear, safety training, and encouragement every step of the way. Check out our blog about this topic!

What’s the minimum age for activities?

1. - Menominee Rafting 5 years old/12 to go through the bigger rapids
  - Peshtigo Rafting: 9 years old
  - Ziplining: (55 lbs minimum)
  - Paintball 12 years old
  - Alpine Tower: 5 years old

Can we book more than one activity?
Yes, and we recommend it! Combo packages save time and money.

Is lodging available on-site?
Yes—from riverside camping to deluxe cabins and tiny homes. Check out our post on Glamping in Wisconsin!

Do we need to bring gear?
Nope. We supply it all. Just bring your sense of adventure.

Still deciding?

Ask yourself:
📱 Will the kids remember TikTok… or whitewater rafting?
🌆 Will your group bond better at a bar… or 40 feet in the air?
📸 Will your summer story start now… or someday?

Let’s make it now.

Biggest Travel Weekend of the Year? How to Plan Your Memorial Day Adventure in Wisconsin