There’s something special that draws us to dining outside in the summer, especially when paired with the sights from a rooftop restaurant. Here’s to enjoying great food and great views in Wisconsin.
Head to the Crow’s Nest in Kenosha for panoramic views (Kenosha County)
Catch panoramic views of downtown Kenosha and Lake Michigan at The Stella Hotel & Ballroom’s rooftop bar.The Stella is a beautifully restored, century-old hotel in the heart of downtown Kenosha. In the summer months, one of its best experiences is the Crow’s Nest.
You’ll find signature cocktails, food, entertainment and, of course, a picturesque setting at this rooftop bar.The Crow’s Nest is open to hotel guests and the public Wednesday through Sunday. They serve cocktails that pair well with warm summer weather like the Lake Michigan Mai Tai and a Brandy Sangaree.
When you’re feeling hungry, order an appetizer, small plates or fire-roasted pizza from the menu like charcuterie or a variety of slider options.Visit in the evening to watch the sun sink below the horizon. Then stay cozy in the glow of the rooftop bar’s firepits.
Enjoy fine food near the river at Mallory’s Restaurant & Rooftop Bar (St. Croix County)
Rooftop restaurants are meant to highlight the gorgeous settings around them. And in Hudson, you’ll catch glimpses of the St. Croix River at Mallory’s Restaurant & Rooftop Bar.Mallory’s offers an elevated experience to visitors – in the most literal sense.
The rooftop patio that is part of the restaurant’s namesake delivers a 270-degree view of the river and downtown Hudson.Open until the end of December, the rooftop restaurant has fire tables and heat lamps to keep you snug whenever you visit.
The menu is full of familiar favorites as well as inventive dishes. Order a bacon bleu burger and house-made tots for a hearty lunch or try one of the restaurant’s creative salads like the blueberry or warm couscous salads.For dinner, Mallory’s has a large selection of steaks and seafood to choose from.
When you come down from the rooftop, stroll through downtown Hudson to discover charming, local shops.The 715 sells an eclectic mix of urban and rustic goods such as home décor, wall art and jewelry, while The Bees Knees is a great option to pick up a gift for a loved one.
Sip on craft cocktails on top of The Charmant (La Crosse County)
Head to La Crosse for a rooftop experience at The Charmant Hotel. This former candy factory turned upscale hotel operates a seasonal rooftop terrace with some of the best views of the city.Choose a craft cocktail to sip on while enjoying the warmth of the summer sun.
The bartenders mix inventive cocktails with unique ingredients like chi infused vermouth. You’ll also find an impressive wine list and beers on tap from several regional breweries. Food is served on the rooftop terrace Thursday through Sunday, and The Charmant has a menu of Italian-inspired fare. This includes delicious Neapolitan-style pizza and appetizers.
Another panoramic experience not to be missed in La Crosse is Grandad Bluff.This 600-foot-tall bluff has become a symbol of the region. Drive to the top of Grandad Bluff for breathtaking views of three states – Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.You can make the trip its own sort of rooftop dining experience by bringing along food to picnic in the park at the top.
Start your summer getaway at TravelWisconsin.com