In the summer of 2009, Lodi became the starting point of the states 2nd Scenic Byway:  The Lower Wisconsin River Road Scenic Byway follows Highway 60 from Lodi to Prairie du Chien.  The 100 mile drive follows the lower Wisconsin river from Lake Wisconsin to the Mississippi River.  Shaped by glaciers and the slow flow of the Wisconsin River, the valley is both beautiful and fun to drive.

It offers more than just beautiful vistas and curving roads, however.  The route passes through or by some of the thriving small towns that make this part of the country special.  Lodi, of course, is the place to start it all–or the place to wrap it up.

Just one mile north of downtown Lodi, the Lodi Valley Suites, Downtown Cafe, and Northern Edge restaurant are nestled into a corner at the edge of town.  With jacuzzi suites, breakfasts, dinners, and a full bar, these three businesses share one roof, making them the perfect place to start your trip.

Reserve a room for Friday night, then head over to the Northern Edge for Friday fish-fry–a Wisconsin tradition.  The Northern Edge serves haddock loins prepared 4 different ways for an all-you-can-eat experience that will leave you filled.  But don’t forget to save room for pie! Made fresh, from scratch, every Friday morning, their pies have become the talk of the town.

Settle down in the lounge for an after-dinner cocktail or cup of coffee and get to know the locals, or get out on the antique dance floor and enjoy the live  music from bands such as  Cherokee or Old Dogs New Trick.

When the night gets late, it’s just a short walk down the hall to your room in the Lodi Valley Suites.  Relax from all the dancing by settling into an in-room jacuzzi and a comfortable bed.

You’ll want to get an early start on your trip.  That’s okay:  Breakfast at the Downtown Cafe starts at 5:30 every morning.   Fresh coffee, home-made waffles and pancakes, and eggs Benedict made with real ham–sliced thin and covered in hollandaise made from scratch.

Then you’re off for the day on a drive along the beautiful Wisconsin River Valley.