What to do in wisconsin?
Updated: August 8, 2024Wisconsin, often referred to as America's Dairyland, offers a diverse array of activities and attractions that cater to a wide range of interests. From bustling cities to serene natural landscapes, this Midwestern gem has something for everyone. Below, we'll explore some of the top things to do in Wisconsin, broken down by region and activity type.
Explore Milwaukee
Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum is not just an art lover's paradise; it's an architectural marvel. The museum's Quadracci Pavilion, designed by renowned architect Santiago Calatrava, features a stunning, movable brise soleil that opens and closes like a bird's wings. Inside, you'll find over 25,000 works of art, ranging from classic to contemporary pieces.
Take a Brewery Tour
Milwaukee has a rich brewing history and is home to some of the most iconic breweries in the United States. Take a tour of the Miller Brewing Company, Lakefront Brewery, or Milwaukee Brewing Company to learn about the brewing process and sample some delicious beers.
Spend Time at the Milwaukee Public Market
Located in the Historic Third Ward, the Milwaukee Public Market is a food lover's dream. With a variety of vendors offering everything from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses, this market is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and experience local flavors.
Discover Madison
Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol
The Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison is an architectural masterpiece. Take a free guided tour to learn about the building's history, see the stunning rotunda, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck.
Stroll Through the University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus
The UW-Madison campus is not only home to a top-tier university but also offers beautiful scenery. Take a walk along the Lakeshore Path, visit the Memorial Union Terrace, and explore the university's many museums and gardens.
Explore the Dane County Farmers' Market
Held on Capitol Square, the Dane County Farmers' Market is the largest producer-only farmers' market in the country. Open on Saturday mornings from April to November, this market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products.
Experience Wisconsin Dells
Enjoy Water Parks
Wisconsin Dells is known as the "Water Park Capital of the World." With both indoor and outdoor water parks, this destination is perfect for family fun. Popular parks include Noah's Ark, Kalahari Resorts, and Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park.
Take a Dells Boat Tour
Explore the stunning natural beauty of the Wisconsin River with a Dells Boat Tour. These guided tours take you through the picturesque Dells, showcasing unique rock formations, cliffs, and caves.
Visit the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory
This hands-on science center is perfect for curious minds of all ages. With over 175 interactive exhibits, the Tommy Bartlett Exploratory offers a fun and educational experience.
Outdoor Adventures
Hike in Devil's Lake State Park
Located in Baraboo, Devil's Lake State Park is Wisconsin's largest state park and a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 29 miles of hiking trails, stunning rock formations, and a beautiful lake, this park is perfect for hiking, rock climbing, and swimming.
Explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Located on Lake Superior, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is a stunning archipelago of 21 islands. Kayak through sea caves, hike on pristine trails, and camp on secluded islands. Don't miss the historic lighthouses and the annual ice caves when conditions permit.
Go Fishing in Door County
Door County, located between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is a popular fishing destination. With over 300 miles of shoreline, anglers can enjoy fishing for a variety of species, including salmon, trout, and bass.
Cultural and Historical Attractions
Visit the Harley-Davidson Museum
Located in Milwaukee, the Harley-Davidson Museum offers a fascinating look at the history of this iconic American brand. Explore exhibits showcasing vintage motorcycles, memorabilia, and the evolution of motorcycle culture.
Discover Old World Wisconsin
Old World Wisconsin, located in Eagle, is an outdoor museum that brings the state's pioneer history to life. With over 60 historic buildings and interactive exhibits, visitors can experience what life was like for Wisconsin's early settlers.
Tour the House on the Rock
Located in Spring Green, the House on the Rock is a unique and eclectic attraction. This sprawling complex, designed by Alex Jordan Jr., features an array of oddities and collections, including the world's largest indoor carousel, a giant sea creature sculpture, and a room filled with automated musical instruments.
Seasonal Activities
Enjoy Fall Foliage
Wisconsin's fall foliage is a sight to behold. Take a scenic drive through the Kettle Moraine State Forest, hike in the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest, or visit Door County to see the vibrant autumn colors.
Winter Sports in Northern Wisconsin
Northern Wisconsin is a winter wonderland, offering a variety of activities for snow lovers. Ski at Granite Peak in Wausau, snowmobile on over 25,000 miles of groomed trails, or try ice fishing on one of the many frozen lakes.
Attend Summer Festivals
Summer in Wisconsin is festival season. Attend Summerfest in Milwaukee, the world's largest music festival, or the EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, a week-long event featuring airshows, workshops, and aircraft displays. Other notable festivals include the Wisconsin State Fair and the American Players Theatre outdoor Shakespeare festival in Spring Green.
Unique Experiences
Cheese Factory Tours
As America's Dairyland, Wisconsin is famous for its cheese. Take a tour of a local cheese factory, such as Carr Valley Cheese or Widmer's Cheese Cellars, to learn about the cheese-making process and sample some award-winning cheeses.
Explore Cave of the Mounds
Located near Blue Mounds, Cave of the Mounds is a stunning limestone cave filled with beautiful formations. Take a guided tour to learn about the cave's geology and history while marveling at the stalactites and stalagmites.
Visit a Cranberry Bog
Wisconsin is one of the largest producers of cranberries in the United States. Visit a cranberry bog during harvest season to see how these tart berries are grown and harvested. Many bogs, such as the Wetherby Cranberry Company, offer tours and tastings.
From the vibrant cities of Milwaukee and Madison to the natural beauty of Devil's Lake and the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin offers a plethora of activities and attractions. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply enjoying some of the best cheese in the world, Wisconsin has something to offer. Dive in and discover your own favorite parts of this diverse and captivating state.
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Known as the "Waterpark Capital of the World," Wisconsin Dells boasts an impressive array of both indoor and outdoor water parks. Noah's Ark Waterpark is the largest in the United States, featuring over 70 acres of waterslides, wave pools, and lazy rivers. For those visiting during the colder months, Kalahari Resorts and Great Wolf Lodge offer extensive indoor water parks, providing year-round fun. These parks include thrilling rides like the Master Blaster water coaster and relaxing spa facilities for adults.
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