Traveling to Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin is always a treat but especially when the Porsche Club stages it's annual Labor Day racing event at Road America. Not only is there oodles to do at the race track, but sightseeing in the nearby towns is especially fun and relaxing.

Elkhart Lake is extremely charming starting with the Farmers Market  every Sunday 8:00 am to Noon during the Fall. The selction of items being offered are all from local residents and farms that range from beautiful fresh and dried flower bouquets to hand forged iron garden accessories by a company called Back To Nature in Plymouth, Wi.  The one booth that is a must to visit is Marsha, a local historian who has forgotten more about  the history of Elhart Lake than most people know. She has a wonderful collection of old prints of the area, when the streets were used for racing before the Road America was built. All of the these great memories are available for purchase in prints. If your'e in town on a Sunday- check out the Farmers Market !!!

There are 3 restaurants in town I would highly recommend. The Lake Steet Cafe is where the food is always good and the bar is open for sandwiches as well as a very nice dining room for more elaborate dining.  John, the owner, has done a great  job making the selection of wines not an easy task; lots and lots to choose from.(nice problem to have) Give this restaurant a try!

The Paddock Club, is a new restaurant on the same street as The Lake Street Cafe. The food is also very good. Both restaurants compliment each other and there is definately room for both in town.

My favorite restaurant just about anywhere, is Bruce's Supper Club.
Bruce's is located just outside of town on county J. We've had the pleasure of dining at Bruce's for at least 25 years! (Lets think about that one). This restaurant has by far the best Clam Chowder, my husband John, has ever tasted anywhere in the WORLD!!! The pan fried Walleye Pike is a definate yes as is the pan fried Lake Perch. All of the soups are homemade and the beef barley has my vote all day long.(I'm getting a craving just writing about Bruce's) Don't leave town without checking this restaurant out- also known for the wonderful steaks!

Also, don't miss the wonderful coffee shop located just kittycorner from the Lake Street Cafe. Their homemade muffins are out of this world - my favorites are raspberry, cherry and almond, and blueberry.  There is a great grocery store next to the coffee shop that has great cheeses and a nice selection of wines.    

Shopping in Elkhart Lake is also fun. If you're into the most comfortable shoes, stop into Nordic Accents and see the owner, Beerco. The clogs come directly from Sweden and your feet will thank you a thousand times!!
The shops in town include a very good new consignement shop where I purchased a beautiful French Blue Damask Tablecloth including 8 napkins for $18.00 and the flower shop which is also an antique shop with unique items. The other shops are equally nice along the streets of Elkhart Lake.

The recommended place to stay would be the Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake. The entire family will love this resort. The Osthoff is located on one of the most picture perfect properties, overlooking the lake. Everything to do from boating, boat cruises around the lake, swimming, biking or even long walks. Golf is within walking distance from the resort. Good Choice!!!
For more info check out the Chamber of Commerce office in Elkhart Lake or go online at www.elkhartlake.com 

Enjoy and happy travels! "Til next time....