Gateway to Kettle Moraine

Whitewater, named for the white sands of Whitewater Creek, is nestled in the southern Kettle Moraine State Forest. It offers 22 parks, four lakes, and a university recognized as a Tree Campus USA by the Arbor Day Foundation. Surrounded by old oaks and hickory, natural prairie, farmlands, and forest, Whitewater is a feast for the nature lover. From biking and hiking to boating and fishing, there’s no shortage of outdoor recreation.

Home to four art galleries, everyone’s favorite family movie theater, and state-of-the-art performing arts venue, Young Auditorium, visitors can enjoy an entertaining evening out. Our historic downtown is filled with restaurants and eateries to satisfy any craving, and when you’re ready for a nightcap, Whitewater offers 3 breweries and 1 winery.

Also known as “Second Salem” due to its rich Spiritualism history and spooky lore, Whitewater provides a Spirit Tour every October. Other beloved events include the 4th of July Festival (the only multi-day festival in the region), Storytelling Festival, and the Holiday Parade of Lights. Visitors can also enjoy our Whitewater City Markets on Tuesday evenings and our Concerts in the Park series on Thursday evenings, both set against the beautiful backdrop of Cravath Lake.

Located just over 2 hours from Chicago and just under an hour from Milwaukee and Madison, visitors will find the drive here is quite scenic with a number of lodging options ranging from rustic camping to cozy bed and breakfasts and hotels. Come for our hidden gem, the Whitewater Flowing Well (aka “the fountain of youth”), and stay because it feels like home away from home.