Wisconsin's Top Destination For a Family Getaway
Whether you’re from the Midwest, looking for a classic family summer vacation, or you’re based further afield, Wisconsin offers a playground perfect for outdoor fun. Sand Valley, located in the heart of the state, is quickly making it’s mark as one of the top golf destinations with its three different courses: Sand Valley, Mammoth Dunes, and The Sandbox.
The newer resort sits on a piece of high dune-covered land, which was once the lakebed of an ancient glacial lake. Pristine and peaceful, there’s much more to enjoy here than just golf. Families can stay in grand private accommodations, built steps from a lake, conducive to stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, swimming, and roasting marshmallows around the fire.
Keep reading to learn about why Sand Valley should be next on your travel wish-list, either for a quick getaway from the city or for a longer, more relaxing, stay.
Location, Location, Location
The first thing you’ll notice when heading toward Sand Valley is how remote it feels. Positioned near the small town of Rome, Wisconsin, this destination really feels like you’re getting away from it all. The Wisconsin Dells are 54 miles away, Madison is 108 miles away, Milwaukee is 167 miles away, and Chicago is 247 miles away, making a car necessary. Once on property, however, you can park your vehicle and leave it, choosing instead to use the round-the-clock shuttle service.
For families, or large groups, choose to stay in a four or eight-bedroom cottage. You’ll have everything you need at your fingertips, from a fully stocked kitchen to a large common living area to en suite bathrooms to an outdoor space with Adirondack chairs and a fire pit. Modern in design, these light-and-bright accommodations are perfect for gathering.
Enjoy a glass of wine while watching the sun dip below a sand dune, casting colorful hues across the lake. See the kids roast marshmallows and tire themselves out running up and down the rugged landscape. Bring along your furry friend and enjoy all the comforts of home—the resort has special amenities to make sure your pet is comfortable.
An Adventurer’s Dream
Beyond golf, there’s much to do while at the resort. Take in the landscape and get a great workout while riding fat bikes or running on one of the sandy trails. Play in the red pine tree groves, oak savannahs, and tall grasses and spot birds as they fly overhead or peek out of one of the birdboxes. Families will love enjoying the outdoors together in a challenging environment.
For a truly special activity, reserve a private lesson with the tennis pro, Costin Fink, or take part in a daily clinic to sharpen your skills on one of the resort’s 15 grass tennis courts. Kids can join a summer camp to learn the ropes and meet friends along the way. Surrounded by ancient sand dunes, these courts are a site to behold. Request the assistance of ball boys and girls to gather all your tennis balls, increasing the speed of play. Dress in white to honor the grass tennis tradition and Wimbledon.
Before dinner, enjoy a round of Bocce Ball. You’ll have great views of Mammoth Dunes and, if you need a break, you can sit in one of the Adirondack chairs that overlooks the green. The two courts, located side-by-side, will provide great entertainment for your whole family.
Fill Your Belly
While you can certainly fill your cottage’s kitchen with your favorite foodstuffs and dine with your family on your screened-in porch, there are excellent restaurants on property for grabbing a quick bite to eat or for enjoying a leisurely night out with your family.
Aldo’s Farm & Table not only has a full menu with a wide variety of dishes, but also, you can sip a signature cocktail and roll a cigar between your fingers on their outdoor patio.
Mammoth Bar is made for gathering and imbibing. After a round of golf, enjoy a celebratory craft beer along with bar bites.
Craig’s Porch is where to go for outdoor casual dining with a panoramic view.
The newest offering at the resort is the Sand Valley food truck, perfect for quick grab-and-go street food noshes.