Small town. Big personality.
Elkhart Lake sits on the shores of its namesake glacier-carved lake in Sheboygan County, Wisconsin. What it lacks in size it more than makes up for in character — and in the roar of engines from Road America, one of the greatest road courses in the world.
From the legendary Siebkens Resort (open since 1916) to the Osthoff's lakefront spa, from the Saturday farmers market to the thundering IndyCar weekend, Elkhart Lake offers a rare combination: genuine small-town warmth alongside world-class events.
America's National Park of Speed
Road America is the crown jewel — a 4-mile, 14-turn natural road course carved through 640 acres of rolling Wisconsin countryside. Built in 1955, it consistently ranks among the world's greatest race tracks. The racing calendar runs from May through October with something for every type of fan.
2026 Race Season
Spring Vintage Weekend with SVRA
Classic racecars from the '50s–'70s — Lotus, Alfa Romeo, Jaguar, Porsche, Corvette
MotoAmerica Superbikes & Vintage MotoFest
Championship motorcycle racing plus a family-friendly vintage motorcycle festival
WeatherTech SCCA June Sprints
Road America's longest-running event — the best of grassroots road racing
XPEL INDYCAR Grand Prix
North America's premier open-wheel series on one of the world's most majestic courses
WeatherTech Vintage Weekend with Brian Redman
400+ historic racecars, Dan Gurney Racing Eagles reunion, 60th anniversary Trans Am tribute
Motul SportsCar Endurance Grand Prix — IMSA
Six-hour endurance race featuring Ferrari, Mercedes, Chevrolet, Aston Martin and more
GT World Challenge America
All-sportscar weekend featuring GT racing's top international teams
Art on Wheels Weekend with VSCDA
300+ vintage and historic race cars spanning 11 racing classes
SCCA National Championship Runoffs
The pinnacle of US amateur road racing — top SCCA racers battle for national titles
The village life
Race weekend or not, Elkhart Lake has a rhythm all its own. The village square, the lake, the Saturday market, the music at Siebkens — it all adds up to something genuinely special.
Siebkens Resort
The soul of Elkhart Lake since 1916. Lakeside tavern, live music most weekends, and a lively crowd that includes racing legends, locals, and everyone in between. The Stop-Inn Tavern opens in April.
Osthoff Resort
A premier lakefront resort with a full spa, cooking classes, fine dining, and year-round events. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a pre-race splurge. Overlooks the lake with stunning views.
Farmers & Artisans Market
Every Saturday morning in the Village Square from May through October. About 50 vendors with fresh vegetables, flowers, cheese, local arts, and specialty products. A true community tradition.
Elkhart Lake
The glacier-carved lake the village is named for. Crystal clear water perfect for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. Several public access points and rentals available in summer.
The Paddock Club
A favorite gathering spot in the village for food, drinks, and good company. Especially lively during race weekends when drivers, crew members, and fans all end up at the same tables.
Shop & Sip
The annual Shop & Sip event brings together Elkhart Lake's downtown shops and restaurants for a day of shopping, tastings, and community fun. A favorite for locals and visitors alike.
When to go & what to know
Elkhart Lake is a summer destination at heart, with the racing season and village events running May through October.
Book early for race weekends
IndyCar (June), IMSA (July/August), and Vintage Weekend (July) fill up months in advance. Hotels within 30 miles sell out fast. Book as early as possible — seriously.
Best weather: June–August
Wisconsin summers are warm and beautiful with low humidity compared to much of the midwest. Evenings cool down nicely — perfect for outdoor dining and lakeside drinks.
You'll need a car
Elkhart Lake is a 90-minute drive from Milwaukee and 2.5 hours from Chicago. There's no public transit — a car is essential. Road America is just 5 minutes from the village center.
General admission is great
Unlike many venues, Road America's general admission tickets let you walk the entire track perimeter and get incredibly close to the action. You don't need the expensive seats to have an amazing time.
The food scene is real
Don't underestimate Elkhart Lake's restaurants. The Osthoff's Lola's on the Lake, Siebkens, and several village spots serve genuinely excellent food. Make reservations for race weekends.
Stay in the village if you can
Staying in Elkhart Lake itself — rather than in Plymouth or Sheboygan — puts you in the center of the action. Walking to Siebkens after a race day is one of the great pleasures of visiting.