South Central Wisconsin in November

Summer brings the crowds but also the best weather. July temperatures hover around 80°F, perfect for lake activities and outdoor concerts at Memorial Union Terrace. The Wisconsin Dells water parks run full throttle, and every small town seems to have a festival - from Monroe's Cheese Days to Mount Horeb's Troll Stroll. Fall might be even better. September and October paint the countryside in impossible colors, craft beer festivals multiply, and college football season energizes Madison. Winter divides people. Some love cross-country skiing at Devil's Lake or ice fishing on Lake Mendota. Others hibernate until spring. Spring arrives late but brings wildflowers to state parks and the return of farmers markets. May through October gives you the most options, but January through March offers the lowest hotel rates and a quieter experience.