Milwaukee, known for its rich brewing history and stunning lakefront, is a city filled with scenic drives that are perfect for car enthusiasts. The greater Milwaukee area offers a variety of routes that take you through lush parks, along beautiful shorelines, and past historical landmarks. Whether you’re navigating the curves of a country road or cruising along the Lake Michigan shoreline, Milwaukee provides the perfect backdrop for manual drivers to enjoy the open road. Beyond the city limits, the rolling hills and scenic byways of southeastern Wisconsin offer even more opportunities to explore.
1. Lake Drive
Lake Drive is one of the most iconic and scenic routes in Milwaukee, stretching along the western shore of Lake Michigan. This winding road offers breathtaking views of the lake, grand historic mansions, and lush parks like Lake Park. The road is lined with trees, and the lake breeze makes it a refreshing drive any time of the year. Manual drivers will love the gentle curves and elevation changes, making it a scenic yet engaging route. Don’t miss the opportunity to stop at Bradford Beach for a quick break and enjoy the lakefront scenery.
2. Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive
Just outside of Milwaukee, the Kettle Moraine Scenic Drive takes you through some of Wisconsin’s most beautiful landscapes. This 115-mile route winds through the rolling hills and forests of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, offering a picturesque escape from the city. The drive features steep ridges and valleys formed by glaciers, creating plenty of opportunities for manual drivers to enjoy twists and turns. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming small towns, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails, making it a perfect day trip from Milwaukee.
3. Holy Hill Road
For those seeking a more rural scenic drive, Holy Hill Road is an excellent choice. Located about 30 minutes northwest of Milwaukee, this road leads to the famous Holy Hill Basilica, a stunning landmark set atop a 1,300-foot hill. The road to Holy Hill takes you through rolling farmlands, dense forests, and peaceful countryside, making it a relaxing yet visually captivating drive. The winding road up to the basilica offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, especially during the fall when the foliage is at its peak.
4. Lincoln Memorial Drive
Lincoln Memorial Drive is another scenic route that hugs the shores of Lake Michigan. Starting at the Milwaukee Art Museum, this drive takes you past some of the city’s most iconic sights, including Veterans Park, McKinley Marina, and the Milwaukee Harbor. The road is smooth and ideal for manual drivers who want to enjoy a peaceful cruise along the lakefront. The scenic views of sailboats on the water and the city skyline in the background make this a must-do drive for anyone visiting Milwaukee.
5. Rustic Roads of Waukesha County
Located west of Milwaukee, Waukesha County is home to several of Wisconsin’s designated Rustic Roads. These rural roads are perfect for car lovers looking to explore quiet countryside landscapes, with minimal traffic and well-maintained routes. The roads wind through rolling hills, farms, and woodlands, offering a serene driving experience. Routes like Rustic Road 10 or Rustic Road 49 are perfect for a weekend drive, giving manual drivers a chance to appreciate the beauty of southeastern Wisconsin at a leisurely pace.
Conclusion
Milwaukee and its surrounding areas are home to some of the most scenic and enjoyable drives in Wisconsin. Whether you’re cruising along the shores of Lake Michigan or winding through the hills of Kettle Moraine, these routes offer something for every car lover. With a variety of landscapes to explore, manual drivers will find plenty of opportunities to enjoy the roads while taking in the natural beauty that makes the greater Milwaukee area so special.
Ready to take your manual driving skills to the next level? Book a lesson with Manual Driving Academy here. Whether you’re navigating the curves of Lake Drive or exploring the scenic byways outside the city, we can help you build the confidence you need behind the wheel. Experience the joy of driving manual in one of the most scenic areas of the Midwest!
