Discover Wisconsin, the place cheese and soccer come to life. It could also be finest generally known as “America’s Dairyland,” however there are numerous issues to do in Wisconsin that may shock you. This midwestern haven is stuffed with wonders for adventurers – from waterside resorts just like the notorious Wisconsin Dells to large cities and small cities alongside its many picturesque landscapes.
Top Things to Do in Wisconsin
Whether you’re an outside lover or a tradition vulture wanting to study this vibrant state’s historical past thrilling experiences await! There are some superb issues to do in Wisconsin, so prepare to begin planning your subsequent journey at the moment!
Planning Your Trip To Wisconsin Right Now?
Below are a few of the high excursions in Wisconsin. Don’t neglect to plan forward when visiting Wisconsin!
Top Activities and Tours in Wisconsin:
1. Harley-Davidson Museum – Milwaukee
The Harley Davidson Museum was our favourite attraction in Wisconsin and we aren’t even Harley followers. It places on an superior show of interactive displays that discover the historic American model.
This museum has a set that features greater than 450 bikes and artifacts. From classic fashions to trendy marvels, the museum showcases the evolution of Harley-Davidson over greater than a century.
Explore displays such because the Engine Room, which delves into the mechanics behind these highly effective machines, or the Experience Gallery, the place you’ll be able to saddle up and get a really feel for the liberty a Harley-Davidson bike can present.
Whether you’re a lifelong Harley fan or new to the world of bikes, this museum provides an attractive and enlightening expertise. Check out all of the Best Things to do in Milwaukee right here!
2. Milwaukee Art Museum
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Milwaukee Art Museum is without doubt one of the largest and most important artwork museums in the United States. With a set of over 30,000 works, it spans every part from historic artifacts to modern artwork.
The museum’s Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, is a murals in itself and has develop into an iconic image of town. Just strolling up to this museum is an occasion.
Spanning 4 tales, this exceptional museum provides an intensive array of exhibitions, from European masters to influential modern artists.
3. Historic Third Ward – Milwaukee
Experience a blast from the previous if you wander by way of Historic Third Ward. Once a bustling warehouse district, it’s now a hub for artwork, purchasing, and eating. Its renovated buildings are dwelling to an array of companies that preserve a connection to the world’s previous whereas providing trendy facilities.
The space is designated as a National Historic District which displays stunning designs of structure and is dwelling to each fascinating outlets and top-notch eating places.
Stroll the neighborhood’s streets to discover boutique shops, artwork galleries, and eateries. The district additionally hosts the Third Ward Art Festival and the favored Milwaukee Public Market, the place you’ll be able to pattern a spread of meals from native distributors. The Historic Third Ward presents a mix of the outdated and new, giving guests a style of Milwaukee’s vibrant city scene.
4. Uncover Wisconsin Dells
Known because the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” Wisconsin Dells is a fun-filled vacation spot for households. The Midwest’s premier trip vacation spot boasts a formidable variety of indoor sights and out of doors water parks, offering year-round leisure whatever the climate.
The time period “Wisconsin Dells” refers to each town of Wisconsin Dells and the encompassing space. The title “Dells” comes from “dalles,” a French phrase used to describe the slim, gorge-like passages sometimes carved by rivers.
The Dells is located alongside the Wisconsin River, which has, over millennia, formed the world’s panorama, creating dramatic cliffs and canyons. The distinctive fantastic thing about this space has made it a draw for vacationers, artists, and nature lovers for over a century.
5. Waterpark Resorts
Wisconsin Dells is legendary for its excessive focus of water parks, main to the nickname “The Waterpark Capital of the World.” These embody main indoor and out of doors water parks reminiscent of Noah’s Ark, America’s largest water park, and Kalahari Resorts, which options one of many nation’s largest indoor water parks.
For those that need to step up their recreation, Mt. Olympus Resorts provides intense curler coasters plus out of doors Go-Kart tracks round this magical a part of Wisconsin for all you daredevils on the market. Everyone in the household will discover one thing they love right here!
6. Wisconsin Dells Boat Tours
Explore the beautiful area of Wisconsin Dells with a ship tour from Dells Boat Tours. Take in the views of Lake Delton, together with Blackhawk’s Profile and Chimney Rock, spectacular sandstone formations set in opposition to lush pine forests which have made this vacation spot so widespread for generations. All whereas gliding on by way of the pristine waters of the Wisconsin River!
Experience all that gorgeous pure magnificence proper out of your vessel as you marvel at it throughout scenic dawn or romantic dinner cruises supplied by our tours- there’s one thing particular about navigating its stunning waterways that may make lasting reminiscences it doesn’t matter what time of yr you go to in stunning Wisconsin Dells.
Whether you might be touring on an Original Duck (World War II amphibious automobile) or having fun with a sundown dinner cruise – Wisconsin Dells will present a fun-filled vacation for the entire household.
7. Adventure Parks at Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is a superb vacation spot for these in search of an action-filled day. At the Knuckleheads trampoline and indoor amusement park, you’ll be able to leap round, whereas Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf provides mini golf with a pirate twist.
The Tommy Bartlett Exploratory has interactive displays that invite hands-on exploration of recent concepts and ideas – all wrapped up in Wisconsin’s charming ambiance!
8. Bello’s Circus Extreme Variety Show
Wisconsin Dells’ Palace Theater was an expert venue for the performing arts. Nestled in the guts of Wisconsin Dells, the theater used to showcase a wide range of top-tier reveals, starting from Broadway musicals to basic performs and live shows.
The Dells Palace Theater closed down in December 2022 however has now re-opened because the Bello’s Circus Extreme Variety Show. This is enjoyable for the entire household and options cool stunts, comedy, magic, and an entire host of different performers.
For these in search of extra pure experiences, the Wisconsin Dells space is surrounded by gorgeous pure magnificence. You can discover the Wisconsin Dells and its scenic gorge identified for its sandstone bluffs and formations, by way of a ship tour or a mountaineering path. Whether you’re sliding down an exhilarating water slide or marveling on the rock formations, Wisconsin Dells provides various experiences that make it a best choice for any Wisconsin itinerary.
9. Explore Lake Geneva’s Charm
If you’re in search of slightly break from the hustle and bustle of metropolis dwelling, Lake Geneva is your excellent spot. Located between Milwaukee and Chicago, this picturesque small city brings with it an environment that’s calm and serene. From leisurely strolls alongside its scenic lakefront to amusement at Tristan Crist Magic Theatre reveals, there are numerous sights throughout!
Take in some really gorgeous views when exploring Black Point Estate or boating on one of many close by lakes. Plus, downtown purchasing & eating experiences provide much more enjoyable actions too.
Whether it’s wandering by way of quaint Victorian estates or getting misplaced in timeless phantasm reveals – come discover every part stunning Lake Geneva has to provide!
10. Lake Geneva Cruise Line
Take in the gorgeous sights from an satisfying boat cruise with the acclaimed Lake Geneva Cruise Line. Glide throughout tranquil waters and be captivated by gorgeous vistas of stylish mansions, lush landscapes, and extra!
You’ll discover a voyage to swimsuit any style – starting from group outings, themed excursions or unique charters. A sundown dinner cruise is a good way to take in the views of the lake at golden hour.
11. Immerse in Green Bay’s Attractions
Nestled on the mouth of the Fox River on Lake Michigan, Green Bay is thought for its celebrated soccer group, the Green Bay Packers, but in addition has all kinds of sights appropriate for all.
Be it having fun with serenity in The Green Bay Botanical Garden and its 4 seasons backyard or Wildlife Sanctuary or taking in a recreation, there’s something for everybody.
12. Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame
Football followers can’t miss an opportunity to attend a recreation at Lambeau Field, dwelling to the Packers, one of many oldest groups in the NFL. Known as “The Frozen Tundra,” this stadium has a storied historical past and an electrical ambiance that’s palpable on recreation day.
Even if you happen to’re not a die-hard Packers fan, the vitality of the gang is infectious and the expertise is uniquely Wisconsin.
Apart from the sport itself, there’s a lot to do at Lambeau Field. Take a guided tour to study in regards to the historical past of the Packers and the stadium, or go to the Hall of Fame, which celebrates notable gamers and memorable moments. Also inside is a duplicate from Vince Lombardi’s workplace, which provides perception into his illustrious profession with the group.
13. National Railroad Museum
The National Railroad Museum provides an thrilling journey by way of the historical past of American railroading. As one of many oldest and largest establishments of its sort in the United States, it has been preserving and deciphering the nation’s railroad historical past since 1956.
Visitors are greeted with a formidable assortment of classic locomotives, rolling inventory, and railroad artifacts. Highlights embody the Union Pacific Big Boy, one of many largest steam locomotives ever constructed, and the British-made Dwight D. Eisenhower, a steam locomotive that served a vital position throughout World War II.
14. Explore the State Capitol in Madison
The State Capitol in Madison, with its magnificent structure and historic significance, is value a go to. Completed in 1917, the Capitol constructing is thought for its elegant dome, which is without doubt one of the largest in the world. Inside, the constructing options stunning murals, ornate decorations, and beautiful craftsmanship.
Visitors can discover the Capitol on their very own or take one of many free guided excursions out there. These excursions present insights into the historical past, structure, and features of the constructing.
Don’t miss the statement deck, which provides panoramic views of Madison and its environment.
15. Explore Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison
Spread over 16 acres, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison is a stupendous oasis that options numerous thematic gardens and a tropical conservatory. It’s an excellent place for a leisurely stroll, a household outing, or a quiet place to learn a ebook.
The gardens showcase a spread of plants and backyard types, from a conventional English-style sunken backyard to a Thai Pavilion and Garden, the one considered one of its sort in the continental U.S.
The Bolz Conservatory homes a tropical paradise stuffed with unique vegetation, colourful flowers, and free-flying birds. The gardens provide a peaceable escape in town and a good way to join with nature.
16. Cave of the Mounds
Located close to Madison, Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark situated in the city of Blue Mounds. It is commonly considered probably the most stunning caves in the United States.
Discovered in 1939, the cave provides excursions to view its huge array of stalactites, stalagmites, and different mineral formations.
The cave maintains a year-round temperature of roughly 50 levels Fahrenheit, making it one of many high indoor sights for any season. Plus, the strolling paths are well-lit and simple to navigate.
Knowledgeable guides present in-depth excursions which might be each academic and interesting. You’ll study in regards to the cave’s discovery, geology, and the fragile mineral formations it homes. These excursions are well-suited for guests of all ages.
17. Wisconsin Great River Road
Take a journey alongside the Wisconsin Great River Road, designated as an American scenic byway. Meandering for 250 miles on the western border of Wisconsin and following the Mississippi River, you’ll be mesmerized by breathtaking sandstone bluffs that may attain 400 ft in peak.
Charming cities provide perception into the wealthy historical past and tradition embedded all through this spectacular route. Make certain to take a look at all sights reminiscent of Wabasha’s National Eagle Center throughout your journey!
18. Discover Frank Lloyd Wright’s Architectural Gems
The state of Wisconsin has lengthy been related to the works of iconic architect Frank Lloyd Wright. His exceptional designs, reminiscent of Taliesin Preservation, Monona Terrace, and Seth Peterson Cottage, have all develop into modern-day masterpieces.
For these in understanding extra about this architectural genius’ creations, a go to to any considered one of his constructions is crucial.
19. Taliesin Preservation in Spring Green
Travel to the gorgeous Spring Green and uncover Frank Lloyd Wright’s dwelling, Taliesin Preservation. This 600-acre property is a should for any fan of structure or design, providing an immersive tour into this legendary architect’s life and work full together with his famend Prairie School designs on show.
It showcases his distinctive architectural fashion, rooted in concord with nature. Here, you’ll be able to tour his dwelling, studio, and 800-acre property stuffed with different constructions he designed.
The home provides glimpses into Wright’s private life and his evolution as an architect. Beyond the buildings, you’ll be able to discover nature trails, gardens, and a working farm. A go to to Taliesin is not only an architectural tour however an immersion into Wright’s philosophy of natural structure and his imaginative and prescient of dwelling in concord with nature.
20. Monona Terrace
In Madison sits Frank Lloyd Wright’s spectacular Monona Terrace, an iconic organic-style conference middle with unforgettable views of Lake Monona. It is feasible to take a guided tour of the constructing and get extra perception into this distinctive architect’s work.
Strolling by way of the fantastically crafted areas in Monona Terrace helps one perceive why Frank Lloyd Wright has had such affect on structure at the moment.
21. Seth Peterson Cottage
For a really distinctive escape, come and keep on the Seth Peterson Cottage situated in Mirror Lake State Park. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright himself, this charming cottage provides its visitors an extremely uncommon likelihood to be enveloped inside the fashion of considered one of his masterpieces whereas additionally benefiting from all that Wisconsin’s stunning state parks have to provide.
Couples in search of a while alone, households in search of high quality bonding experiences or teams wanting to share good occasions, everybody will love what they discover right here! Come calm down and luxuriate in your self surrounded by serenity as you expertise one thing extraordinary with your folks or family members.
22. Experience Door County’s Coastal Charm
Door County, typically referred to because the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” is the proper place to calm down and escape from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life. Here, you’ll discover greater than 300 miles of shoreline situated on the shores of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Door County, is dwelling to majestic lighthouses, expansive state parks, and pristine seashores, making it the proper place for out of doors adventures.
During your go to, be certain to take a look at a few of the county’s famed lighthouses, just like the Cana Island Lighthouse, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, Baileys Harbor Range Lights, Old Bailey’s Harbor Lighthouse, or Sturgeon Bay Canal North Pierhead, all set in opposition to breathtaking surroundings.
Take a drive by way of the county’s rustic roads, cease by an area vineyard for a tasting, or savor the sweetness of a freshly picked cherry from a roadside farm stand. If you’re a nature lover, Door County gained’t disappoint, with ample alternatives for mountaineering, birdwatching, and water sports activities. Door County encapsulates what makes Wisconsin particular, making it a necessary cease in your itinerary.
23. State Parks and Hiking Trails
Outdoor lovers in Door County can take pleasure in an unlimited collection of out of doors recreation and spectacular views all thanks to its many state parks and trails.
Those in search of an exhilarating journey or peaceable respite ought to discover some widespread spots like Peninsula State Park, Newport State Park, Whitefish Dunes State Park, or Potawatomi State Park. All provide numerous terrain together with breathtaking surroundings. With so many out there mountaineering paths boasting superb scenes round each nook, you gained’t be disillusioned!
24. Visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Located on Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore consists of 21 islands and a 12-mile stretch of the mainland that gives a wealth of leisure alternatives.
From historic lighthouses and sandstone sea caves to various wildlife and clear, blue waters, the Apostle Islands are a real paradise for nature lovers.
Kayaking is without doubt one of the finest methods to discover the ocean caves of the Apostle Islands. Located on the most important of the Great Lakes, kayaking isn’t to be taken frivolously, so a information is extremely advisable.
During winter, these caves flip into an otherworldly panorama of ice formations that may be visited on foot when circumstances allow.
In addition to paddling and mountaineering, guests can take pleasure in tenting, fishing, crusing, and birdwatching. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or in search of tranquility, the Apostle Islands provide a memorable getaway.
25. Savor Wisconsin’s Culinary Delights
Wisconsin boasts an unbelievable array of culinary choices, from the huge collection of Madison’s ever-growing restaurant scene to Milwaukee’s beer heritage.
For these wanting a style of what this Midwestern state has to provide, meals excursions and farm-to-table institutions can present scrumptious native fare whereas domestically crafted brews quench any thirst. Whatever your desire could also be, Wisconsin is bound to tantalize you with its various flavors and hold you coming again for extra!
26. Madison’s Food Scene
Discover Madison’s wealthy and different culinary choices. From farm-to-table eateries to meals excursions, your choices are plentiful! Try Graze for a global expertise or Pig in a Fur Coat for one thing distinctive. Also, take a look at the Madison Eats Food Tours – it’ll take you on a scrumptious journey of native companies round city.
If you’d like to get nearer to homegrown flavors, head over to Dane County Farmers’ Market and Willy Street Coop the place recent elements await in addition to artisanal merchandise made by locals simply ready to be found!
So come discover what town has ready – style its delights till your coronary heart is glad!
27. Milwaukee’s Brewing Legacy
Take a visit by way of Milwaukee’s brewing custom by visiting the Pabst Mansion, a formidable reminder of town’s beer-making heritage. After touring this historic spot, why not proceed in your journey and discover a few of its native craft breweries? You can pattern all kinds of beers from basic lagers to ingenious IPAs which might be certain to fulfill no matter tastes you’ve gotten in thoughts.
28. Wisconsin’s Dairyland
Wisconsin is legendary for its dairy merchandise, and no journey could be full with out tasting its cheese and ice cream. Visit an area cheese manufacturing facility for a tour to see how cheese is made and pattern a wide range of cheeses. Farmers’ markets, like Dane County Farmers’ Market in Madison, provide an opportunity to style recent native produce and dairy.
Another important Wisconsin meals expertise is a conventional barbecue. These occasions, typically held on Fridays, serve up fried fish accompanied by sides like coleslaw and rye bread. Also, don’t miss out on attempting Wisconsin’s craft beers. Many breweries provide excursions and tastings, offering an perception into the state’s wealthy brewing custom.
29. Hike the Ice Age Trail
The Ice Age Trail is without doubt one of the distinctive highlights Wisconsin has to provide, providing greater than 1,000 miles of scenic trails. This huge community stretches throughout the state, following the sting of the final continental glacier in Wisconsin. The path provides gorgeous views of glacial landscapes plus forests, prairies, and wetlands.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply in search of a peaceable place to admire nature, the Ice Age Trail has one thing to provide. You can embark on a multi-day backpacking journey, take pleasure in a leisurely afternoon stroll, and even try a “thru-hike” if you happen to’re up for a major problem.
With clearly marked mountaineering trails and quite a few entry factors, the Ice Age Trail is a improbable manner to expertise the Wisconsin open air.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do individuals journey to Wisconsin for?
Head to Wisconsin for an expertise that gives the very best of metropolis tradition and out of doors enjoyable. The spectacular State Capitol in Madison, in addition to Cave of the Mounds, are widespread sights. Also value visiting is Frank Lloyd Wright’s structure which adorns many components of this state. For those that like adventures, the Apostle Islands present loads of alternatives for exploration whereas water parks round Wisconsin Dells provide pleasure all yr spherical.
What is probably the most visited city in Wisconsin?
Green Bay, Wisconsin, is a well-liked vacationer vacation spot, welcoming an estimated 105,000 guests yearly.
What is there to do between Milwaukee and Madison?
Take a drive from Milwaukee to Madison and discover a few of the sights on the route, together with Octagon House in Watertown, Mullins Dairy Bar for traditional American delicacies, pottery galleries at Cambridge and sights in Jefferson & Lake Mills. Check out Harley-Davidson Museum in addition to Milwaukee Art Museum, Tristan Crist Magic Theatre or Fireside Dinner. Theatre whereas there too!
Take a peaceable stroll alongside the enchanting views of Lake Geneva Shore Path, an expertise like no different.
What are some widespread sights in Wisconsin Dells?
Visiting Wisconsin Dells is good for a fun-filled household trip. Visitors can expertise thrilling waterparks, scenic boat excursions, and different exhilarating parks in the world. It’s no marvel it has been considered one of Wisconsin’s hottest locations!
In Conclusion
Wisconsin is a midwestern state packed stuffed with fascinating experiences and locations to discover. Home to thrilling sights just like the Wisconsin Deer Park in Wisconsin Dells, romantic cities in Door County, architectural works from Frank Lloyd Wright, in addition to Madison’s beautiful meals tradition, it has one thing for everybody! So don’t hesitate any longer: begin planning your journey at the moment and uncover all that this glorious space may give you. An unforgettable expertise surrounded by its breathtaking magnificence.