Family-Friendly Lodges Overlooking Duck and Lynx Lakes

When looking out onto Duck Lake from its verdant shores, it’s easy to imagine what life was like in the early days of Wisconsin’s Northwoods. Then, the only occupants were lumberjacks inhabiting a few scattered camps and the indigenous tribes of the Wisconsin River. Wild Eagle Lodge now sits atop these lush 28 acres, surrounded by forest and overlooking two lakes where deer often wade in the shallows. The resort’s rustic, natural setting recalls days of simpler pleasures, but its indoor pool, sand volleyball courts, and tennis courts bring it properly into the 21st century.

Guests can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities daily, including a s’mores campfire or a scavenger hunt. Feel free to take one of the resort's complimentary kayaks or canoes for a spin atop Duck Lake’s serene surface. Kids can partake in crafts and nature education during Camp Run-A-Muk, a program created in joint with the Northwoods Children’s Museum, held Sunday–Friday at various times of the day throughout summer.

Each lodge home is outfitted with a fully equipped kitchen, a gas fireplace, a patio or balcony, and a passive-aggressive teen. If you're on a vacation from cooking, fuel up at Blue Heron Supper Club and Lounge, the onsite restaurant. It serves fresh seafood entrees, pizzas, and craft beer, and there’s piano music Thursday–Saturday.

Eagle River, Wisconsin: Fishing Holes and Waterfalls near Michigan’s Upper Peninsula

Eagle River is nearly 150 miles from the closest major city, but it feels worlds away. Here, rather than chains or department stores, you’ll find quaint shops stocked with both hand-dipped ice cream and bait for your next fishing trip. In fact, northern Wisconsin has one of the largest concentrations of lakes in the Midwest—during open season, you can fish at a new spot every day for an entire month. Its chain of 28 lakes makes it a premier destination for muskie anglers, fly-fisherman, and parents looking to teach their kids the basics. Even if the fish aren’t biting, you can still get a taste of them: one of Wisconsin’s most famous traditions is the Friday-night fish fry.

No-shows will be charged total Groupon rate; no refunds, rescheduling, or rebooking allowed. Read the Fine Print for important info on travel dates and other restrictions.