Discover Wisconsin, the place cheese and soccer come to life. It could also be greatest often called “America’s Dairyland,” however there are lots of issues to do in Wisconsin that may shock you. This midwestern haven is filled with wonders for adventurers – from waterside resorts just like the notorious Wisconsin Dells to huge cities and small cities alongside its many picturesque landscapes.
Top Things to Do in Wisconsin
Whether you’re an out of doors lover or a tradition vulture wanting to find out about this vibrant state’s historical past thrilling experiences await! There are some wonderful issues to do in Wisconsin, so prepare to begin planning your subsequent journey immediately!
Planning Your Trip To Wisconsin Right Now?
Below are a number 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 interesting 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 likely one of the largest and most important artwork museums in the United States. With a set of over 30,000 works, it spans all the pieces from historic artifacts to modern artwork.
The museum’s Quadracci Pavilion, designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, is a murals in itself and has change into an iconic image of the town. Just strolling up to this museum is an occasion.
Spanning 4 tales, this exceptional museum provides an in depth 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, procuring, and eating. Its renovated buildings are dwelling to an array of companies that keep a connection to the realm’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 previous 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 powerful 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 the town of Wisconsin Dells and the encircling space. The title “Dells” comes from “dalles,” a French phrase used to describe the slender, gorge-like passages usually carved by rivers.
The Dells is located alongside the Wisconsin River, which has, over millennia, formed the realm’s panorama, creating dramatic cliffs and canyons. The distinctive fantastic thing about this space has made it a draw for vacationers, artists, and nature fans for over a century.
5. Waterpark Resorts
Wisconsin Dells is known 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 similar to 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 attractive 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 fashionable 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 provided 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 12 months you go to in stunning Wisconsin Dells.
Whether you might be touring on an Original Duck (World War II amphibious car) 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 environment!
8. Bello’s Circus Extreme Variety Show
Wisconsin Dells’ Palace Theater was an expert venue for the performing arts. Nestled in the center of Wisconsin Dells, the theater used to showcase quite a lot of top-tier exhibits, starting from Broadway musicals to traditional performs and concert events.
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, through a ship tour or a climbing path. Whether you’re sliding down an exhilarating water slide or marveling on the rock formations, Wisconsin Dells provides numerous experiences that make it a best choice for any Wisconsin itinerary.
9. Explore Lake Geneva’s Charm
If you’re on the lookout for just a little break from the hustle and bustle of metropolis residing, 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 exhibits, there are numerous sights throughout!
Take in some actually gorgeous views when exploring Black Point Estate or boating on one of many close by lakes. Plus, downtown procuring & eating experiences provide much more enjoyable actions too.
Whether or not it’s wandering by way of quaint Victorian estates or getting misplaced in timeless phantasm exhibits – come discover all the pieces stunning Lake Geneva has to provide!
10. Lake Geneva Cruise Line
Take in the attractive sights from an fulfilling 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 go well with any style – starting from group outings, themed excursions or unique charters. A sundown dinner cruise is an effective 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 workforce, 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 environment that’s palpable on recreation day.
Even in case you’re not a die-hard Packers fan, the vitality of the group is infectious and the expertise is uniquely Wisconsin.
Apart from the sport itself, there’s lots to do at Lambeau Field. Take a guided tour to study concerning 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 workforce.
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 form in the United States, it has been preserving and deciphering the nation’s railroad historical past since 1956.
Visitors are greeted with a powerful 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 function throughout World War II.
14. Explore the State Capitol in Madison
The State Capitol in Madison, with its magnificent structure and historic significance, is price a go to. Completed in 1917, the Capitol constructing is thought for its elegant dome, which is likely 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 obtainable. These excursions present insights into the historical past, structure, and capabilities of the constructing.
Don’t miss the commentary 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 wonderful oasis that options numerous thematic gardens and a tropical conservatory. It’s a super place for a leisurely stroll, a household outing, or a quiet place to learn a ebook.
The gardens showcase a spread of vegetation and backyard types, from a conventional English-style sunken backyard to a Thai Pavilion and Garden, the one one in all its form in the continental U.S.
The Bolz Conservatory homes a tropical paradise crammed with unique vegetation, colourful flowers, and free-flying birds. The gardens provide a peaceable escape in the town and an effective way to join with nature.
16. Cave of the Mounds
Located close to Madison, Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark positioned in the city of Blue Mounds. It is commonly considered some of the 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 straightforward to navigate.
Knowledgeable guides present in-depth excursions which can be each academic and interesting. You’ll study concerning 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 top.
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 similar to 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, similar to Taliesin Preservation, Monona Terrace, and Seth Peterson Cottage, have all change into modern-day masterpieces.
For these in understanding extra about this architectural genius’ creations, a go to to any one in all his buildings 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 model, rooted in concord with nature. Here, you’ll be able to tour his dwelling, studio, and 800-acre property crammed with different buildings 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 isn’t just an architectural tour however an immersion into Wright’s philosophy of natural structure and his imaginative and prescient of residing 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 beautifully crafted areas in Monona Terrace helps one perceive why Frank Lloyd Wright has had such affect on structure immediately.
21. Seth Peterson Cottage
For a really distinctive escape, come and keep on the Seth Peterson Cottage positioned in Mirror Lake State Park. Designed by Frank Lloyd Wright himself, this charming cottage provides its visitors an extremely uncommon likelihood to be enveloped throughout the model of one in all his masterpieces whereas additionally making the most of all that Wisconsin’s stunning state parks have to provide.
Couples on the lookout for 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 pals 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 positioned 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, make certain to take a look at a number 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 climbing, 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 fans in Door County can get pleasure from an unlimited choice of out of doors recreation and spectacular views all thanks to its many state parks and trails.
Those on the lookout for an exhilarating journey or peaceable respite ought to discover some fashionable 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 obtainable climbing paths boasting wonderful scenes round each nook, you gained’t be upset!
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 numerous wildlife and clear, blue waters, the Apostle Islands are a real paradise for nature lovers.
Kayaking is likely one of the greatest 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 calmly, so a information is very 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 climbing, guests can get pleasure from tenting, fishing, crusing, and birdwatching. Whether you’re an adventurous traveler or on the lookout for 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 choice 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 numerous flavors and preserve you coming again for extra!
26. Madison’s Food Scene
Discover Madison’s wealthy and various 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 contemporary substances await in addition to artisanal merchandise made by locals simply ready to be found!
So come discover what the town has ready – style its delights till your coronary heart is happy!
27. Milwaukee’s Brewing Legacy
Take a visit by way of Milwaukee’s brewing custom by visiting the Pabst Mansion, a powerful reminder of the 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 types of beers from traditional lagers to ingenious IPAs which can be certain to fulfill no matter tastes you may have in thoughts.
28. Wisconsin’s Dairyland
Wisconsin is known for its dairy merchandise, and no journey can 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 quite a lot of cheeses. Farmers’ markets, like Dane County Farmers’ Market in Madison, provide an opportunity to style contemporary native produce and dairy.
Another important Wisconsin meals expertise is a conventional barbeque. These occasions, typically held on Fridays, serve up fried fish accompanied by sides like coleslaw and rye bread. Also, don’t miss out on making an attempt 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 likely 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 on the lookout for a peaceable place to recognize nature, the Ice Age Trail has one thing to provide. You can embark on a multi-day backpacking journey, get pleasure from a leisurely afternoon stroll, and even try a “thru-hike” in case you’re up for a major problem.
With clearly marked climbing trails and quite a few entry factors, the Ice Age Trail is a improbable method to expertise the Wisconsin outside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do folks journey to Wisconsin for?
Head to Wisconsin for an expertise that gives the perfect of metropolis tradition and out of doors enjoyable. The spectacular State Capitol in Madison, in addition to Cave of the Mounds, are fashionable sights. Also price 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 12 months spherical.
What is essentially 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 number 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 fashionable sights in Wisconsin Dells?
Visiting Wisconsin Dells is right for a fun-filled household trip. Visitors can expertise thrilling waterparks, scenic boat excursions, and different exhilarating parks in the realm. It’s no marvel it has been one in all 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 immediately and uncover all that this glorious space may give you. An unforgettable expertise surrounded by its breathtaking magnificence.