A Charming Weekend in Pepin, Wisconsin
A Charming Weekend in Pepin, Wisconsin
Home Away from Home at Harbor Hill Inn
Our stay in Pepin began at the Harbor Hill Inn, a beautifully kept home perched on a bluff above town. We stayed in the Pepin Room, which included a private balcony overlooking the river. Sitting outside with coffee in the morning or watching the sunset in the evening quickly became one of our favorite parts of the trip; it felt like our own little escape above the trees.
Harbor Hill Inn
The inn had such a calm, welcoming atmosphere. It didn’t feel like a hotel, it felt like staying in a friend’s beautiful home. Every detail was thoughtfully done, and the whole place gave off an effortless warmth that made it easy to settle in.
In the evenings, we played yard games on the lawn before heading into the solarium; a bright, sun-filled room perfect for board games and card games. With its big windows and cozy seating, it was the ideal place to relax after a full day of exploring.
Solarium - Harbor Hill Inn
Exploring Pepin’s History and Surroundings
We visited the Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum, which offered a moving glimpse into the early life of one of America’s most beloved authors. Just a short drive away, we explored the replica cabin built on the site where the Ingalls family once lived. Walking through that simple structure gave us a deeper appreciation for the stories we grew up reading.
Laura Ingalls Wilder Museum
We also made a stop at the Country Stop of Pepin, a fun little store with local goods, snacks, and plenty of quirky charm. It’s one of those unexpected places you’re glad you didn’t pass up.
And even with only two days to explore, we managed to visit four state parks:
John A. Latsch State Park – for stunning river views
Carley State Park – peaceful, quiet trails through the woods
Frontenac State Park – bluffside beauty and scenic overlooks
Nerstrand Big Woods State Park – with its lush forest and waterfalls
Each one brought a different kind of scenery and adventure, and together they gave us a fuller picture of the beauty in this corner of the Midwest.
Local Eats That Hit the Spot
We ate at The Pickle Factory...twice. That should say enough. The food was fresh, satisfying, and the lakeside setting made each meal feel like summer. Their pickle beer was unexpectedly perfect, crisp, salty, and refreshing in the best way.
Breakfast at Homemade Café was another favorite. The place was already buzzing when we arrived. Service was fast and friendly, the coffee hot, and our meals came out quickly. We were seriously tempted by their lineup of homemade pies on display, but somehow managed to resist.
Dinner at Harbor View Cafe was cozy and memorable. Their seasonal menu was full of flavor, and the relaxed atmosphere made it one of our favorite evening stops. It’s easy to see why it’s a local institution.
We also grabbed ice cream at Bearfish Brew Shop, where we sampled two standout flavors: rich, classic rocky road and a tart, creamy rhubarb that was totally unexpected and totally delicious.
Bearfish Brew Shop
Time to Slow Down
In between all the food, history, and hiking, we made time to simply sit by the lake. The beach along Lake Pepin was quiet and breezy, perfect for relaxing and watching the waves roll in.
And perhaps the best part of all? Everything in Pepin was walkable. From the inn to the restaurants, the beach, the museum, and even the ice cream shop, it was all just a short stroll away. No traffic, no rushing, just time to wander, explore, and take it all in.
Final Thoughts
Pepin gave us everything we were looking for: comfort, charm, history, nature, great food, and a chance to slow down and reconnect.
We left rested, full of good memories.
Let's keep rambling.
- Kelly