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15 Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin For Your Bucket List

November 13, 2023 by //  by  Midwest Explored 3 Comments

If you are looking for the best places to visit in Wisconsin, then you have come to the right place!

There are so many interesting and beautiful attractions in this Midwest state.

Whether you love exploring nature, strolling the streets of small towns, or checking out the nightlife in big cities in the Midwes t , there is something for you!

There are Wisconsin travel destinations for all types of travelers.

Make family memories while camping, enjoy a girls’ trip to a quaint town, or have a romantic weekend getaway in the famous Door County.

America’s Dairyland is more than cows and farms. There are lighthouses, beaches, museums, wineries, historic sites, and so much more! What will you see on your Wisconsin vacation?

Get ready to plan the best Wisconsin itinerary!

Bayfield Wisconsin

Bayfield is one of the cutest small towns in Wisconsin . This quaint town is found at the northern tip of the state near the Apostle Islands.

This is a great home base for checking out all the surrounding nature.

The town has plenty of places to dine and shop. There are also hiking trails, beaches, and parks. Charter a boat down at the marina or cast a line from the fishing pier.

The Bayfield Maritime Museum is a great stop to learn about boating history.

Another fun thing to do in Bayfield is taking the ferry to Madeline Island. The 25-minute boat ride provides great views of the lake.

You can bring your car or bike on the ferry so you can easily explore when you get to the island. You will find Big Bay State Park, hiking trails, beaches, and kayaking opportunities.

Ice Caves Are Some Of The Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin

Winter in Wisconsin can be brutal, but if you are brave enough to venture into the snow and ice, you will be rewarded with amazing natural wonders.

Unique ice caves are some of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

There are a few places throughout the state where you can see these amazing, frozen caves. Wisconsin Dells near the middle of the state is one such place.

There are 13 waterparks in Wisconsin Dells .

The Fern Dell Gorge in Mirror Lake State Park is draped with icicles in the cold months.

Drive west of Wisconsin Dells to Wild Cat Mountain State Park where you will find the Ice Cave Trail. This trail is less than a mile long and features gorgeous frozen scenery.

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has the most famous ice caves in Wisconsin both on the mainland and on the islands. Visiting these ice caves is a Wisconsin bucket list activity.

Great River Road

The Great River Road National Scenic Byway is one of the best things to do in Wisconsin . If you are looking for an awesome road trip in Wisconsin , this is one of the best!

The Great River Road is Wisconsin State Highway 35, and it follows the Mississippi River for 250 miles and connects 33 charming, historic towns.

Prescott, on the Minnesota border , marks the northern point of the road and is where you will find the Great River Road Visitor and Learning Center.

From there, travel south along the river and stop at as many cute, small towns as possible.

Admire the historic architecture, do some local shopping, and discover great state parks. All are fantastic places to visit in Wisconsin!

Big Manitou Falls Is One Of The Scenic Places To Visit In Wisconsin

If you want to visit one of the best waterfalls in Wisconsin , then head to Pattinson State Park where you will find Big Manitou Falls plunging into the Black River.

At 165 feet, this is the highest waterfall in the state and is definitely one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

The four-mile loop hiking trail will guide you through the forest to multiple overlooks on both sides of the gorge where you can stare in awe at the beautiful waterfall.

The hike is moderate and good for all skill levels.

While in the park, you can also visit Little Manitou Falls. This 30-foot waterfall is found upstream.

Milwaukee Museum Mile

Head to Milwaukee eateries to enjoy all the food and the iconic Milwaukee Museum Mile for all the culture.

This cultural area in the city’s East Side encompasses five different museums and guarantees a great day out.

It is one of the best things to do in Milwaukee!

The Charles Allis Art Museum is found within a beautiful, 1911 Tudor mansion and holds over 2,000 art pieces from around the world.

Stop by the Jewish Museum Milwaukee to learn about Jewish history in Wisconsin through interactive displays, special exhibits, and many artifacts.

The Museum of Wisconsin Art at Saint John’s On The Lake has an amazing collection of local art that will make you see the state in a new light. There are also great views of the lake.

The restored North Point Lighthouse dates back to 1888 and is now a museum for Wisconsin’s maritime history. The 74-ft structure provides more amazing views of the lake.

Lastly, the Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum is an Italian Renaissance-style villa that was built in 1923. You can step back in time as you walk through the furnished rooms and formal garden.

There are so many breweries in Milwaukee to explore as well!

Rock Island State Park

Rock Island State Park is one of the best places for camping in Wisconsin. To arrive at this beautiful island, you must take two different ferries.

You will be completely removed from the real world so you can immerse yourself in nature!

This is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for making memories with your family. What is a more classic family vacation than camping in the great outdoors?

Along with roasting marshmallows around the campfire, you can spend time kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming.

Tour the historic Pottawatomie Lighthouse or hike the ten miles worth of scenic trails on the island. It is one of the coolest lighthouses in Wisconsin!

Lambeau Field

Football fans will want to come to Green Bay and visit the famous Lambeau Field that the Green Bay Packers call home.

Built in 1957, this is one of the oldest stadiums in the NFL and it can fit 72,000 spectators.

If you time your visit right, you can catch a game here. Whether you come for a game or not, you can also do a fun tour of the stadium.

There are different levels to the tours depending on how much you want to see.

The Legendary Stadium Tour includes everything from the exclusive club levels to the Press Box to the visiting team locker room. How cool is that?

If you are hungry restaurants in Green Bay serve amazing food!

Cranberry Highway

The Cranberry Highway is another of the best road trips in Wisconsin .

The state is known for its cranberry production and driving the 50-mile Cranberry Highway is one of the best ways to see the colorful cranberry marshes.

This scenic highway is found in central Wisconsin and you can start your self-guided tour at any point.

Warrens is one of the best places to start, though, since this town is known as the Cranberry Capital of Wisconsin. It hosts the world’s largest cranberry festival each September.

You can visit the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center, too.

Plan to drive the Cranberry Highway in the fall. This is harvest time and the berries are bright red and extra pretty. This is one of the best places to experience fall in Wisconsin!

If you are looking for unique places to visit in Wisconsin, the Cranberry Highway should be high on your list.

Spring Green

One of the best Wisconsin weekend getaways is Spring Green, found only an hour from Madison. This small town is best known for being the hometown of architect Frank Lloyd Wright.

And there are so many things to do in Madison WI .

Wright built his home, Taliesin, here in 1911, though it was rebuilt a couple of times because of fires.

Today, the house is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and you can tour the estate. There are also a couple more Wright buildings in town to explore.

Along with architecture, Spring Green has a historic downtown with great shops and cafes, beautiful parks, and other unique Wisconsin tourist attractions.

Copper Falls State Park

If you visit Wisconsin in the fall , then you should head to Copper Falls State Park to experience amazing foliage. This beautiful park is comprised of gorges, waterfalls, and ancient lava flows.

There are many hiking trails for exploring the park and finding wildlife. Some animals that you may spot in the park include black bears, gray wolves, deer, raccoons, and chipmunks.

There are also over 200 species of birds seen here throughout the year.

Of course, you have to see the titular Copper Falls! This waterfall is 30-feet high and cascades down into a rugged gorge. The waterfall is found along the 1.7-mile Doughboy’s Nature Trail.

There is epic Wisconsin camping here in tents or rent a rustic cabin. If you come in the winter, you can enjoy the cross-country skiing trails.

Devil’s Lake State Park

Found in Baraboo, Devil’s Lake State Park is the most popular state park in Wisconsin.

Join the three million annual visitors and explore this unique park as a Midwest weekend getaway . There are over 400 campsites.

Start your time here at the Devil’s Lake Nature Center where you can learn all about the history and wildlife of the area. From there, set out to explore the 10,000-acre park on the hiking and biking trails.

The centerpiece of the park is Devil’s Lake. Hang out at the swimming beaches where there are picnic tables, grills, and a concession stand. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, or standup paddleboards.

This park is definitely one of the most fun places to visit in Wisconsin.

If you are looking for a place to spend Christmas in Wisconsin, then you need to head to Cedarburg. This town is pretty all year, but it becomes extra magical during the holiday season.

The historic downtown is a great place to shop or dine. There are plenty of cool Christmas activities for the whole family from sleigh rides to special light displays.

Of course, Cedarburg is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin at any time of the year.

No matter the season, you will have an amazing time! Take pictures of the 1876 Cedarburg Covered Bridge or have a tasting at the Cedar Creek Winery.

Apostle Islands Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is one of the best national parks in the Midwest . This collection of twenty-one islands is found at the northern point of Wisconsin in Lake Superior.

You can take a scenic sightseeing cruise or explore on your own as you kayak among the cool rock formations and caves. There are beaches, fishing spots, and hiking trails to discover.

Scuba diving is also a popular activity here. You can find interesting underwater rock formations along with fascinating shipwrecks that date back to the late 1800s.

Bay Beach For Wisconsin Excitement

One of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for thrills is Bay Beach. This awesome Midwest amusement park in Green Bay will keep the whole family entertained for hours.

General admission is free. Instead, you use tickets to get on the rides. The tickets are very inexpensive and the rides require anywhere from one to four tickets.

There are rides for all ages so everyone can be included. The rides include roller coasters, Ferris wheels, slides, bumper cars, and more!

Door County Is One Of The Spectacular Places To Visit In Wisconsin

Door County is one of the most popular places to visit in Wisconsin. This beautiful area of the state is found on a peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan.

There are about 300 miles of shoreline, and it is a great place to watch both the sunrise and sunset over the water.

There are so many fun and unique things to do in Door County . You could easily spend a day or week here exploring everything there is to offer.

Check out the many cute, small towns where you will find great restaurants in Door County , shops, art galleries, and cherry orchards.

You can hike in the five state parks found here or photograph some of the eleven historic lighthouses.

If you are looking for a romantic getaway, then you can rent a cozy cabin in Door County to snuggle up in. Have a memorable time sipping wine at a Wisconsin winery or taking a sunset cruise.

Traveling with kids? Take them to one of the beaches or discover some cool caves along the coast.

Winter in Door County can be especially beautiful!

Packing List When Visiting Epic Places in Wisconsin

A  concealed travel pouch  may be one of the most important items you bring along when searching for the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

It is always important to protect your personal information. Identity thieves are everywhere.

This  unisex RFID blocking concealed travel pouch is  lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.

If you have a pouch already that does not come with the RFID protection, as I do, these  RFID  sleeves are  the perfect solution.

This configuration comes with enough credit card sleeves that the entire family would be protected. They are slim too, so they will easily fit into your pouch or wallet.

If you are planning on taking a lot of pictures with your phone you will definitely want to consider an  external charging battery . This  Anker high-speed phone charging battery  is  the exact one  I carry with me on all of my trips.

It can be used on a variety of phones, not just an iPhone like I have. And wow is it fast!

I like that it holds its charging capabilities for several uses so I do not have to worry about it while out and about, and if I forget to recharge it at night, it will still be good to go the next day.

My daughter gifted me with this  FugeTek selfie stick and tripod   setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and is so easy to use.

It has Bluetooth connectivity and is a breeze to use for taking selfies when visiting Wisconsin attractions.

Hydration is so important when traveling. You want to remain hydrated throughout your travels to support your immune system which in turn will be stronger to fight off any germs you will encounter during your travels.

You will want to bring your own  refillable water bottle  with you.

I never leave home on a trip without my  Bobble filtration bottle .  The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.

When filled with water, it is not too heavy to carry. And the replacement carbon filter ensures fresh clean water whenever you fill the Bobble.

Perhaps you are traveling a long distance and packing space is a premium in your suitcase, or in your car.

Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.

You will want a  backpack or daypack  with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc.. then this   foldable water-resistant backpack   would be great.

There are so many amazing tourist attractions in the Wisconsin Dells! No matter your idea of the perfect vacation, there are places to go to in Wisconsin to fit your needs.

there are even romantic getaways in Wisconsin to experience.

Reader Interactions

June 22, 2023 at 3:55 pm

Veterans, visit the Highground Veterans Memorial Park in Neillsville (3 miles west). Voted the Nations premier manned veterans memorial park.

June 26, 2023 at 7:07 pm

Thank you for providing this information.

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Wisconsin

Written by Anietra Hamper Updated Jul 26, 2022

Bordered by Lakes Michigan and Superior, Wisconsin offers diverse landscapes and attractions that are a delight to explore. To the north and west are large expanses of hills that are perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and areas of lowlands to the south and east have proven excellent for dairy farming. In summer, the beaches are some of the most popular places to visit.

While many of Wisconsin's top things to do are in its two largest cities, Madison and Milwaukee, smaller communities such as Spring Green , home to architect Frank Lloyd Wright's famous Taliesin, are also worth exploring. The state also offers many exceptional cultural activities and events, too, from the huge Oshkosh Airshow to Milwaukee's popular Summerfest .

Outdoor enthusiasts can choose from great fishing lakes and lakes to enjoy boating and leisure activities , as well as some of the best hiking and biking trails to be found anywhere in the country.

Learn about these and other interesting places to visit with our list of the top attractions in Wisconsin.

2. Taliesin: Frank Lloyd Wright's Perfect Country Home

3. wisconsin state capitol, madison, 4. the harley-davidson museum, milwaukee, 5. circus world museum, 6. the dells of the wisconsin river, 7. the great outdoors: door county, 8. the green bay packers: lambeau field and the walk of legends, 9. exploring the land o' lakes, 10. copper falls state park, 11. all steamed up at the national railroad museum, 12. take a hike on wisconsin's wonderful trails, 13. winter activities in northwest wisconsin, 14. cheesehead factory, 15. the house on the rock.

The small town of Oshkosh on Lake Winnebago, northwest of Milwaukee, is famous for two things: the popular line of kids' clothing and its place on the world's airshow circuit. The world's largest meeting of aviators, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has been held here every summer since 1970.

During the weeklong event, the Oshkosh control tower becomes the busiest on the planet as up to 15,000 aircraft of all shapes and sizes descend upon the airport. They're joined by an estimated half a million visitors, all here to catch thrilling aerobatic displays, as well as flybys from vintage and contemporary military aircraft.

Also fun to experience are the nighttime flying displays, evening movie shows and theatrical performances, and educational workshops. For those with the budget, a variety of aircraft rides, including aboard a huge B-17 bomber, are available. Also of note is the superb EAA AirVenture Museum with its collection of 200-plus aircraft.

Address: EAA Aviation Center, 3000 Poberezny Road, Oshkosh, Wisconsin

Official site: www.eaa.org/en/airventure

One of the most influential individuals to have called Wisconsin home was Frank Lloyd Wright. Numerous examples of the great architect's designs can still be seen across the state in which he was born and where he lived for much of his life.

But it's to Taliesin East in Spring Green — usually referred to simply as "Taliesen" — that most people flock. Set amid 600 acres of beautiful rolling countryside, this spectacular home was started in 1911 and was a work in progress right up to Wright's death in 1959.

Wright spent his summers here and then packed up and headed to Taliesin West, one of the top attractions in Scottsdale, Arizona , in winter. Students at The School of Architecture at Taliesin still do this each year. Guided tours are available, taking in the home, theater, studio, gallery, and school. Other highlights include an informative visitor center with a restaurant.

Other Frank Lloyd Wright buildings include the spectacular Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center on Madison 's lakeshore (it was actually built long after his death but was based on his original plans) and Milwaukee 's Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church .

Address: 5481 County Road C, Spring Green Wisconsin

Official site: www.taliesinpreservation.org/visitors-guide

• Read More: Top Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Madison, WI

Madison has numerous great reasons to visit, with many of its top attractions found in the downtown core . One of the most attractive is the Wisconsin State Capitol. Completed in 1917, it's decorated with a 284-foot-high dome that's just three feet shy of Washington's Capitol building.

Free hour-long tours are available daily and take in many of the building's best interior features, including its large murals, exquisite marble work, and elegant rotunda with its states and monuments.

There's also an interesting museum about the building's history located on the sixth floor, which is well worth a look. One of the best views of the capitol is from the Frank Lloyd Wright designed Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center - it's simply stunning.

Address: 2 E Main Street, Madison, Wisconsin

Nothing says "freedom" quite like a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, a fact that is not lost on visitors to Milwaukee, the birthplace of the famous "Hog." The best place to find out more about this iconic machine is the city's Harley-Davidson Museum, home to more than 450 classic motorcycles.

This fun family attraction also has excellent displays of the brand's famous teardrop tanks, as well as exhibits telling the story of the people and places behind the machines. There's also a fun Harley-themed restaurant. If you can, try to time your visit to coincide with one of the museum's busy "bike nights," when fans and owners arrive in their droves to show off and admire these classic machines.

There are several self-guided tours available at the museum to give you more insight and a behind-the-scenes look at this iconic American company. You can tour the full 20-acre Harley Davidson complex by downloading a map to see buildings like the original shed where the company started in 1903, and the H-D archives houses documents, clothing, and marketing materials. A self-guided audio tour is available.

Address: 400 W. Canal Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Official site: www.harley-davidson.com/us/en/museum.html

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Milwaukee, WI

Located in the small town of Baraboo , Circus World Museum is an excellent attraction for kids of all ages to learn about the day-to-day activities of a working circus. With its focus on the country's rich circus history - it was once upon a time one of the nation's leading entertainment industries - the museum features numerous fascinating displays and exhibits.

The museum is reputedly home to the world's largest collection of circus-related artifacts, from posters to parade wagons. In summer, there's a Big Top with regular shows including traditional circus acts (check their website for scheduled performances). Baraboo is well qualified to host this museum given its former role as the headquarters of the huge Ringling Brothers Circus.

Address: 550 Water Street, Baraboo, Wisconsin

Official site: www.circusworldbaraboo.org

Sometimes called the Wisconsin Dells - though this is often confused with the touristy town of the same name - the Dells of the Wisconsin River is a spectacular five-mile gorge on the state's largest river. This area of outstanding natural beauty, much of it located in the state park of the same name, boasts many unique sandstone rock formations, canyons, and cliffs, some as high as 100 feet.

The Dells area is also home to an abundance of unique flora and fauna, such as cliff cudweed, found in only one other location on the planet, and six species of dragonfly. Given its fragile ecological state, it's not the easiest place to access, and those wanting to experience its beauty must do so by boat.

A variety of regular boat tours and excursions are available, taking in both the upper and lower areas of this spectacularly beautiful region.

• Read More: Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells

One of the prettiest corners of Wisconsin is Door County. Located some 46 miles northeast of Green Bay, this area of outstanding natural beauty lies on a peninsula overlooking Lake Michigan and has become a popular vacation spot for its many charming hotels, as well as its plentiful campsites.

This pleasant rural countryside draws numerous visitors each year for its many outdoor activities. These include fun things to do such as trout fishing, sailing, diving, and swimming, as well as hiking and biking. This is also a great place for kayaking .

Some of Wisconsin's best small towns are found in Door County, including picturesque Sturgeon Bay , with its lovely old lighthouse (one of numerous such buildings sprinkled across the state), and Ephraim , with is old harbor and historic buildings. Washington Island is also worth visiting and has the country's oldest Icelandic settlement.

The story of the Green Bay Packers is a remarkable tale of a small town's ability to host a major league professional sports team. Take the team's stadium. Nearly large enough to house the city's entire population of 72,000, Lambeau Field opened in 1957 and is the longest continuously occupied stadium in the league.

Formed in 1919, the team is the third oldest in the NFL, and the league's only non-profit team (it's owned by the city of Green Bay). Whether you're a sports fan or not, you'll enjoy a tour of the stadium with its behind-the-scenes look at how a major league team operates.

Two superb self-guided sightseeing tours of Packers-related landmarks are also worth checking out: the Walk of Legends is an art walkway of 24 statues celebrating the history of football in Green Bay between 1895 and the present (and fun to explore at night), and the Packers Heritage Trail is a walking tour taking in city landmarks associated with the team.

Address: 1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Official site: www.packers.com

• Read More: Top-Rated Tourist Attractions & Things to Do in Green Bay

The lovely Land o' Lakes region is tucked away between Boulder Junction, Eagle River, and Rhinelander in the northern part of Wisconsin. Hugely popular with water sports enthusiasts, it boasts more than 200 unspoiled lakes of various sizes.

Campers and backpackers are particularly fond of the region, which is wonderful to explore by canoe or kayak. Highlights are its abundant flora and fauna, with good fishing and bird-watching, including an opportunity to catch a glimpse of some of the few remaining white-tailed eagles in the area.

The town of Eagle River is a good place to begin exploring the region and offers a variety of things to do, from fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and swimming in summer, to cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter.

Address: 6484 Hwy 45, Land O' Lakes, Wisconsin

While the Badger State is known for many things — in particular its dairy products and cheese — it's certainly not short of natural wonders, either. It's especially popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts thanks to its numerous lovely waterfalls . While some of the most attractive are set in relatively remote locations, many are within easy reach of major urban centers.

One of the most popular Wisconsin destinations for waterfalls is Copper Falls State Park . Just a few minutes' drive north of the small town of Mellen , this beautiful park is, in fact, home to no less than three waterfalls. Two of the most visited, Copper Falls itself and Brownstone Falls in the park's north end, are each accessible via the Waterfall Trail, an easy trek that's suitable for even the casual hiker.

The third falls, Red Granite Falls, is located at the park's southern end and is also worth seeing. For those wanting to make a full day of it, a total 17 miles of hiking trails is ready to be explored within Copper Falls State Park.

Address: 36764 Copper Falls Road, Mellen, Wisconsin

Official site: https://dnr.wisconsin.gov/topic/parks/copperfalls

There's no better family outing than the excellent National Railroad Museum in Green Bay . Home to more than 20 steam and diesel engines, plus numerous items of rolling stock, the museum houses a variety of railroad artifacts and memorabilia.

A highlight is the Eisenhower collection, which includes the Dwight D. Eisenhower , a streamlined vintage British engine used to pull the leader's military train across Europe during WWII. Fun events include excursions aboard a train decked out like the famous Thomas the Tank Engine, and haunted train rides at Halloween. An 80-foot-tall observation tower offers great views of the museum's collection and the surrounding area.

Address: 2285 South Broadway, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Official site: https://nationalrrmuseum.org

One of the best ways to explore wonderful Wisconsin is to hike or bike across the state's extensive trail networks, an activity that's becoming increasingly popular with backpackers looking for an exciting outdoor adventure.

Many of the trails that cross the state provide a look at how landscapes have been shaped by glaciation, including the Ice Age Trail , an epic 1,000-mile-long National Scenic Trail stretching from Potawatomi State Park to St. Croix Dalles.

Then there's the North Country National Scenic Trail encompassing states from North Dakota to New York, 117 miles of it passing right through the heart of Wisconsin. A gentler and extremely pleasant hike is the Geneva Lake Shore Path , a 21-mile walking trail that crosses many of the state's classiest country estates (allow at least a full day if you're planning to walk the entire route).

Official site: www.iceagetrail.org

For the outdoor winter enthusiast there are few places that offer the variety and access of cold weather sports then the Northwest region of Wisconsin. The Northwoods (comprised of Langdale, Lincoln, Forest, Vilas, and Oneida counties) and the towns of Cable and Hayward, among others in the region, make for an interconnected outdoor winter playground.

It is easy to rent equipment from local outfitters and enjoy cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and fat-tire biking. There are more than 200 miles of cross-country skiing trails and 80 miles of fat-tire biking trails just in the Hayward/Cable region. There are more than 600 miles of snowmobile trails in the area and hundreds of miles more that connect the many small towns in the Northwoods.

You could make a full vacation just traveling from town to town by snowmobile and staying in a different area each night. What makes the northwest region spectacular for outdoor winter sports it that there are trails for every skill level, and it is easy to find guides, equipment, and instruction.

Trails are always maintained in the winter. The town of Hayward has the largest fleet of snow- and trail-grooming equipment in the United States.

Wisconsin is synonymous with cheese, and Wisconsin sports fans are synonymous with the famous Cheesehead. The term is a nickname referring to fans of the Green Bay Packers NFL team, and it has developed its own cult following. Cheeseheads are easily identified by the oversized foam cheese slice that is worn as a hat.

You do not have to be a Cheesehead to enjoy a visit to the original Cheesehead Factory in Milwaukee. The factory and store are located inside a warehouse and have everything related to the Cheesehead brand, along with history about its humble beginnings.

The Cheesehead store features products like ornaments and foam cheese earrings, as well as clothing bearing the brand's name. You can even take your own foam cheese hat or head to a Packer's game and feel like a local.

Address: 1120 S. Barclay Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

The curious House on the Rock is one of Wisconsin's most unusual tourist attractions. Set high atop Deer Shelter Rock in Spring Green, it's a fascinating mix of oddities and antiques housed in a sprawling complex of structures built to mimic the work of Frank Lloyd Wright, whose famous Taliesin East home is nearby.

A highlight of a visit is the 218-foot-long Infinity Room, which seems to disappear into the distance when you stand in it. This fun attraction is also part of a larger complex that includes a resort and an inn.

Address: 5754 State Road 23, Spring Green, Wisconsin

Official site: www.thehouseontherock.com

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10 Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin

By Touropia Editors · Last updated on October 3, 2023

Many people refer to Wisconsin as the Cheese State or the Dairy State, but there is more to the area than Dairy production. Wisconsin is home to many desirable travel locations from big cities to national parks, offering a range of sights and attractions for thrill seekers, nature lovers and families.

Travelers can find amusement and relaxation year-round in Wisconsin though tourists should be prepared for any type of weather if they want to have the best possible vacation. Travelers should never judge what to wear based on how the locals dress as Wisconsinites tend to have thick blood and an enviable tolerance for cold weather. An overview of the best places to visit in Wisconsin :

10. Pattison State Park [SEE MAP]

Pattison State Park is home to Big Manitou Falls, a 165-foot (50 meter) high waterfall, the tallest in the state. Native Americans were said to have believed to hears the Great Spirit’s voice from the falls. The park also has Little Manitou Falls, which is 31-feet (9 meter) high. The state park is located around 13 miles south of Superior in Douglas County. There are many campsites as well as a few nearby motels.

9. Cave of the Mounds [SEE MAP]

The Cave of the Mounds is a caver’s delight located 20 minutes west of Madison. It is one of the most cherished caves in the Midwest, featuring guided tours year-round. People often refer to the Cave of the Mounds as the “jewel box” of the Midwest’s caves. It is known for its many formations and sheer beauty. Visitors can also enjoy a lunch in the picnic area, go hiking, visit the Butterfly Gardens or check out the Fossil Dig.

8. Lake Minocqua [SEE MAP]

Lake Minocqua is a large lake in Oneida County. Tourists can find many vacation rentals around the lake and access the water from parks and public boating landings. The destination is most popular in the winter for snowmobiling and in the summer for waterskiing and boating. Fish found in Lake Minocqua include Walleye, Musky, Panfish, Largemouth and smallmouth bass and Northern Pike.

7. Geneva Lake Shore Path [SEE MAP]

The Geneva Lake Walking Path is a 21-mile (34 km) mix of concrete, limestone and dirt originally created by Native Americans a century ago. Serious walkers can complete the path in eights hours, but most people require 10 to 14. Some travelers may prefer the lake’s South Side because it allows access to Big Foot Beach State Park, but this side is not as developed as the North Side, which is home to many old mansions. Visitors desiring a shorter walk can travel a portion of the path.

A 6.5-mile (10 km) section takes people through downtown Lake Geneva and Williams Bay. People choosing this option can drive into Williams Bay and leave their car if they can arrange for a ride back, or tourists can opt for the more unique option and arrange to be picked up by a water taxi from the Lake Geneva Cruise Line.

6. Wisconsin Dells [SEE MAP]

Wisconsin Dells is known as “The Waterpark Capital of the World” and offers a range of attractions and accommodations to meet every waterpark lover’s needs. An explosion of indoor water parks has turned the Dells from a summer hot spot to a year-round destination. There are over 21 water parks, water-skiing thrill shows and super-minigolf courses. The Dells has two visitor centers that can best assist tourists plan their vacation.

5. Madison [SEE MAP]

Madison is the state capital of Wisconsin and home to around 260,000 people. The city is one of only two in North America that is located on an isthmus (the other is Seattle). Madison is home to fine dining, theater, and a thriving night life, as well as five lakes and plenty of bike-friendly areas.

Many college students reside in Madison because the city is home to the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Madison has the feel of a college town combined with the benefits of a metropolitan area, yet a short drive out of the city gives travelers access to the countryside.

4. Door County [SEE MAP]

Situated on a narrow peninsula jutting into Lake Michigan, Door County is a great place to visit in Wisconsin for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts. The county is home to picturesque lighthouses and small 19th- century villages in addition to 300 miles of shoreline. Visitors can enjoy outdoor theater, live music and stunning views everywhere they look.

For travelers who want to get away from it all, remote islands are accessible by boat. People looking for glamour and luxury can enjoy fine dining and opulent resorts. Quaint bed and breakfasts, cabins and historic inns offer a variety of other accommodations. Many travelers head to Door County in the spring for the cherry blossoms, but there is plenty to do any season.

3. Apostle Islands [SEE MAP]

Apostle Islands draws in hikers, water sport enthusiasts and campers. The islands are home to Meyers Beach, Bayfield Headquarters, the Little Sand Bay Visitor Center and fishery, and the Northern Great Lakes Visitor Center. Visitors should be aware that the only way to the islands is by water.

Many people choose to access the islands by kayak but there is a ferry can take cars to Madeline Island. Stockton Island is home to one of the greatest concentrations of black bears in North America, though bears may be found on just about any of the Apostle Islands.

2. Milwaukee [SEE MAP]

Milwaukee is Wisconsin’s biggest city with nearly 600,000 residents. It is located on Lake Michigan’s southwestern shore and is known for its brewing traditions. Milwaukee boasts many attractions to appeal to tourists such as Pier Wisconsin, the Milwaukee Riverwalk and Miller Park.

Visitors who would rather take a walk on the wild side can see the Harley-Davidson Museum or the Milwaukee County Zoo. Tourists can break up their time in the city by visiting the Kettle Moraine State Forest, an enormous park that is home to the thousand-mile Ice Age Trail.

1. Bayfield [SEE MAP]

For a small town experience that is rich with history, tourists should visit Bayfield. Home to only a few hundred people, Bayfield is the main gateway to the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore. Bed and breakfasts and speciality shops are plentiful in the town located almost at the most northern section of the state on the shores of Lake Superior.

There are two museums, Bayfield Maritime Museum and Bayfield Heritage Museum, and a few art galleries, but the town’s biggest attraction is the yearly Apple Fest in October. Many people also visit for Race Week, which is held around the 4th of July.

Map of Wisconsin

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March 10, 2017 at 7:14 pm

Very run of the mill list. Fine for those that follow the pack

August 5, 2016 at 6:29 am

Racine, Wis. has the world-class architectural landmark Johnson Campus built by Frank Lloyd Wright and it surely surpasses many other “attractions” on this list.

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Hikes, beers and (yes) cheese: the best things to do in Wisconsin

Apr 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Every summer, Wisconsin overflows with festivals and fairs – like the State Fair, held in Milwaukee © Matt Anderson Photography / Getty Images

Whether you’re heading to the Badger State for fun and sun during the summer festival season or looking forward to winter hiking and cross-country skiing, Wisconsin has you covered.

Warm-weather fans will find plenty of outdoor music and culture festivals to keep them busy, while colder months are a great time to explore nature, museums and the state’s famous food scene. Regardless of when you visit, Wisconsin promises to show you a good time.  

While it wasn’t easy to pare down all this state has to offer, here are our picks for the best things to do in Wisconsin.

Catch an outdoor concert 

Come summer, Wisconsin hims with the sound of live music.

The state’s most famous music event is Summerfest , a 10-day outdoor concert series in  Milwaukee that features dozens of performances each day. Lesser-known local groups and bands that were big in previous decades perform on small stages around the Summerfest grounds, while huge international acts fill up the on-site Marcus Amphitheater. From rock and hip-hop to country and bluegrass, the vast lineup has something  for every music lover. Outside of Summerfest dates, outdoor concerts take place at Marcus Amphitheater all summer and fall. Check out the upcoming lineup and plan your trip around a favorite band.

About 40 miles southwest of Milwaukee, the city of Elkhorn plays host to another outdoor music favorite,  Alpine Valley Music Theater . The outdoor venue can accommodate up to 37,000 people in its reserved seats and on its first-come-first-serve lawn area. Country-music lovers should look out for the Hodag Country Festival , where 25,000 campers head to the northern part of the state for camping and country music, while bluegrass lovers should check out  Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire. In central Wisconsin,  Rock Fest is set on 360 acres of land and is the largest rock and camping festival in the country. Large and mid-size cities across the entire state also hold free weekly outdoor concerts at city parks and botanical gardens during the summer.

Hit up one of the state’s festivals

Some of the best-known festivals in Wisconsin also take place on the Summerfest grounds, in the heart of Milwaukee. On non-Summerfest weekends in summer and fall, you’ll find food truck festivals and events celebrating the city’s culture and ethnic diversity, including festivities for the city’s Mexican, African, Irish, German and LGBTIQ+ communities. The Wisconsin  State Fair , also held in Milwaukee, is a massive festival that takes place every August and features food, music, rides and entertainment for couples, groups and families. In Madison, head to  Brat Fest , which has been going strong for 40 years – and where attendees consume 200,000 brats in a single weekend every year.

Indulge in the state’s official desserts

Depending whom you ask, Wisconsin’s official state dessert is one of two things: cream puffs or kringle. While you can technically find the former in bakeries and supermarkets year-round, the real deal can only be sampled at the Wisconsin State Fair in August. Kringle, on the other hand, can be found every single day of the year, mostly at supermarkets and bakeries. Racine, Wisconsin is the kringle capital of the country; even if you can’t squeeze in a day or two to explore the city (which we highly recommend), you’ll still find authentic, Racine-baked kringle all over southeastern Wisconsin.

Enjoy a day at the beach

Thanks to over 800 miles of Great Lakes coastline and 200 miles of Mississippi River shoreline – not to mention the state’s 15,000 lakes – Wisconsin has a huge number of wonderful beaches . From the urban beaches in Milwaukee to tiny beaches in front of cozy cabins in the Northwoods, you’re sure to find a stretch of sand to relax on no matter where you find yourself in the state.

Take a brewery tour – and sample freely 

If there were a contest for the official Wisconsin state drink, there would be a tie between a glass of milk and a pint of beer. Milwaukee is nationally famous as the “Brew City” (its baseball team is the Milwaukee Brewers, after all), so you’ll find a huge number of breweries offering tours here, including Pabst Brewery, MobCraft, Lakefront Brewery , Miller Brewing and Milwaukee Brewing Company.

In college town and state capital  Madison , the huge number of breweries includes  Capital Brewery (one of the oldest), and the female-, LGBTIQ-owned  Giant Jones Brewing Company . There’s even a dedicated gluten-free brewery and tap room,  ALT Brew . While you’ll find the most breweries in the state’s two largest cities, rest assured that you’ll find great beer (and breweries) all over the state, from the  New Glarus Brewing Company  in southern part of the state to Sand Creek Brewing Company  in Black River Falls. Serious beer lovers can even plan a visit along the state’s Brew Trail .

Eat some cheese 

Since Wisconsin’s unofficial nickname is the Dairy State, and since its residents lovingly call themselves “cheeseheads,” you’d do well to sample some of the state’s most famous culinary product. While you’ll find especially large selections at places like the Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha, you’ll find great cheese anywhere and everywhere in the state. Specialty stores, cheese emporiums, small roadside stands and supermarkets all sell great cheese; you’ll even find cheese curds in bulk at some gas stations. True cheese connoisseurs should head to  Milwaukee  for the fine selection at the West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe and Wisconsin Cheese Mart, and to  Madison , where Fromagination is your go-to spot.

Go for a hike

Whether you’re looking for an easy family-friendly jaunt in a city park or an epic multi-day backpacking trip, you’ll find fantastic hiking all over Wisconsin. Hiking is a year-round activity here, and each season has its own unique appeal. Spring hikers are treated to wildflowers, while summer wanderers can enjoy nature in full bloom; autumn excursions promise fabulous fall foliage everywhere in the state. Snow-covered pine plantations are especially picturesque in winter, when trails also tend to be less crowded (just be sure to bundle up).

Cycle on one of the state’s rail trails 

Former railroad rights-of-way that have been converted into car-free bicycle and pedestrian paths, rail trails date to the 1960s – and Wisconsin was one of the first states to embrace the idea in the 34-mile Elroy Sparta State Trail . The state now boasts nearly 2000 miles of trails, ranging  from Milwaukee’s urban Beerline Trail , which runs along an old freight route and connects city parks and popular breweries, to the 52-mile  Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System near the Michigan border in northern Wisconsin. Ambitious riders could tackle the ride in a single day, though since you’ll also find plenty of picnic spots, swimming holes, campgrounds and motels along the route, we recommend taking your time over multiple days.

Spend some time in the Northwoods 

While Milwaukee and Madison in Wisconsin’s Southeast have plenty to offer, to get a true sense of what it’s like to live in Wisconsin one has to visit the remote Northwoods. Going “up north” to a cabin or campsite is a core part of Wisconsin’s culture; visiting the Northwoods means being surrounded by pine trees, smelling campfires at night and looking out onto small lakes and meandering rivers. It’s possible you’ll see a bear, it’s probable you’ll see someone fishing and it’s guaranteed that you’ll see loads of deer. Life is a bit slower and quieter up here. And that’s exactly the appeal.

You might also like: The best beaches in Wisconsin: Great Lakes and great beaches The 9 best things to do in Racine, Wisconsin: art, architecture, and everything needed for a great weekend away 300 miles of beer, brats and cheese: A Wisconsin culinary tour

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42 Fun Things To Do & Places To Visit In Wisconsin

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: June 18, 2021  - Last updated: October 16, 2023

Wisconsin, popularly known as the Badger State, is a rather interesting location with a lot of unlikely yet fascinating facets that make it an ideal spot for a trip or holiday.

It is known for its production of dairy, beer, and lumber and bears the marks of a deep and meaningful history steeped in Native American culture, much of which you can continue to see in modern-day Wisconsin.

It also is a haven for nature-lovers, with natural features like sandstone, ice caves, and plenty of parks to explore.

There are a whole lot of Wisconsin attractions of different genres and varieties, so there’s pretty much something for everyone, with many vacation ideas to put into play.

There are cultural and artistic galleries, unique and one-of-a-kind museums, lively art scenes, and plenty of ways to get close to nature.

So, how should you spend your time in the Badger State?

Here is our travel guide for the 42 fun things to do and places to visit in Wisconsin, whether you’re visiting this weekend or months from now!

Table of Contents

1. The Harley-Davidson Museum

Brett Welcher / Shutterstock

The Harley-Davidson Museum is one of the top sites to see in Milwaukee , Wisconsin, near its downtown area.

The sprawling complex spans 20 acres and contains an impressive three buildings in one place.

More than 450 of these classic motorcycles – and thousands of associated artifacts from the brand’s company – are arranged throughout the museum, telling the fascinating tale of the company’s century in business.

Unique exhibits inside the Harley-Davidson Museum include ones focusing on motorcycle customization, racing competitions, and company history.

Many of the displays are interactive and some motorcycles can be directly touched or even sat on, and there’s even a restaurant to eat at.

The epitome of freedom and 20th-century pop culture, the Harley-Davidson Museum is one of the chief things to do in Wisconsin for bikers and history-lovers alike.

Try to time your visit for bike nights, when Harley riders and fans come by the museum to showcase their personal motorcycles!

Address: 400 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53201, United States

2. Cave of the Mounds

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When it comes to cool places to go, the Cave of the Mounds is one of Wisconsin’s top 10.

After all, it’s a unique spot and has earned the rather flattering title of the Jewel Box of Major American Caves as well as being on the list of National Natural Landmarks.

Situated close to Blue Mounds, it is famous not for its many stalagmites and stalactites, but for its beautiful formations of limestone rock.

The limestone formations in the Cave of the Mounds are bright, vibrant, and colorful, and they’re varied, interesting, and a delightful feast for the eyes.

The caves were first found by limestone miners and quarry workers in 1939 who accidentally opened up a way into the rocky location, revealing the chambers.

The miners immediately ceased activity when they found the lovely forms.

The Cave of the Mounds has all sorts of different formations, with the most famous being their fun “soda straws”, which are hollow tubes made of minerals that are surprisingly delicate.

There are also helictites, which are a kind of stalactite in a bent shame, flowstones of smooth limestone, and many blues, reds, and brows among the rock.

With the aid of flashy lighting that further emphasizes the drama of the natural geology, the Cave of the Mounds has become a popular hotspot for tourists.

Though dating back 488 million years, the caves hold up as a stunning modern attraction.

Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, United States

3. House on the Rock

lito_lakwatsero / Shutterstock

In 1940s Wyoming Valley, an interesting sandstone rock chimney spanning 60 feet into the air caught the eye of Alex Jordan.

This rock formation, known as Deer Shelter Rock, would become the site of Jordan’s weekend retreat home.

He had never intended for it to turn into an icon of Wisconsin and one of its best examples of stunning architecture, but his creation was such a masterpiece that people began to ask about it and even stop by to visit.

Eventually, Jordan began to request donations of 50 cents in exchange for giving out tours to visitors of the 14-room home.

This soon grew into the House on the Rock becoming one of the key Wisconsin attractions, and the many rooms housed all sorts of collections by the eccentric Jordan himself.

Now, the house has expanded, covering a whole complex of multiple structures, collections, and intricacies that means it may take you all of this weekend to explore!

You’ll find the world’s biggest carousel here too, which houses over 20,000 lights, a whopping 269 carousel animals, and an additional 182 lanterns, watched over by angel mannequins that hang from the ceiling.

The House on the Rock was never intended to be a museum, and in fact, even now, it’s something a little more than that.

It’s bright and strange and a reflection of Jordan’s imagination, and it’s well worth the visit.

Address: 5754 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588, United States

4. Bookworm Gardens

kenneth casper / flickr

The Bookworm Gardens are one of the unique things to do in Wisconsin, packed with a fun theme that is sure to delight and amaze young children and adults alike.

Spanning 35 acres in Sheboygan, it is a literature-inspired seasonal garden that uses bright and exciting displays to make references to more than 60 different famous kid’s books.

The goal of the Bookworm Gardens is to promote reading, music, art, and nature in a wireless, internet-free space.

It was opened in 1999 by Sandy Livermore and has turned into a truly magical location with delightful interactive activities, including digging for worms, learning to create music, and even doing some alphabet searches.

As far as places to visit in Wisconsin go, the Bookworm Gardens are the most whimsical.

Kids get to learn about local wildlife, try out different displays, and curl up in a cozy reading nook in an undeniably exciting location.

Workshops, classes, camps, and tours are also available!

Just be sure to pre-register for the peak season so you can get in!

Address: 1415 Campus Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53081, United States

5. The Historic Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward is a National Historic District and is in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

It takes up an impressive 10 square block of space with over 70 historic buildings, all located south of downtown.

Its large space makes it one of the best tourist places for free-roaming exploration, and it’s simply filled to the brim with great spots to eat, studios, galleries, boutiques, theatres, and plenty of history-related points of interest.

The Historic Third Ward was first built in 1875 and is renowned for many of its features, such as the Third Ward Riverwalk and the Milwaukee Public Market.

It has romantic charm and old-school whimsy mixed with the modern convenience of an electric streetcar system, regular seasonal performances, and plenty of events to check out.

Address: Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States

6. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Gerald A. DeBoer / Shutterstock

Termed as one of the best vacation destinations , the Olbrich Botanical Gardens are yet another must-see in Wisconsin, located in Madison .

It is one of the city’s scenic places and was founded in 1952 by the same man it is named after: Michael Olbrich.

Covering 16 acres of land, the gardens are nothing short of enchanting, idyllic, and beautiful, offering a relaxing but fun escape from the bustle of the surrounding city.

Since its opening, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens has gained two conservatories – one in 1991 and the other, called the Bolz Conservatory, more recently.

The latter has a waterfall!

The King of Thailand himself actually donated a pavilion to the gardens in 2002, decorated delicately with Thai sculptures in a wider garden area.

The rest of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens are separated into open-air sections totaling 6 different areas – or 7 if you include the Thai Garden.

There is the Sunken Gardens, which is a traditional English garden that boasts a delightful reflective pool and many terraces of limestone around it.

There is also the Rose Garden, which is filled with different flowers.

Other spots include the Atrium Shade Garden, the Meadow Garden, the Rock Garden, and the Starkweather Creek.

Address: 3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704, United States

7. Milwaukee Art Museum

Keya5 / Shutterstock

If you’re an art-lover seeking things to do in Wisconsin, you’ll love the Milwaukee Art Museum .

It is one of not just Wisconsin’s, but the entire world’s largest museums, boasting a whopping 25,000 pieces of art across four floors of space, with two structures in modernist and postmodernist styles.

The museum, opened in 1872 to bring more art to the local scene, was built upon the donation of Alexander Mitchell, and it was officially considered a museum beginning 1957.

The extensive collection at Milwaukee Art Museum spans from ancient artifacts all the way to modern, contemporary works.

Its collection’s most prized items are decorative art of America, German Expressionist works, and post-1960 American works, though it also encompasses Haitian art, the works of Andy Warhol, Claude Monet, and Pablo Picasso, and the creations of local-born artist Georgia O’Keefe.

Some of the Milwaukee Art Museum’s more interesting collections and exhibits are also its most unorthodox.

There is a Chair Park in the basement where you can try sitting on famous chairs of figures like Eero Saarinen and Frank Lloyd Wright.

There is a sculpture made up of thousands of individual buttons, a collection of pottery known as Mrs. M—’s Cabinet fitted with a digital projection of the fictional Mrs. M— herself, and an exterior decorated with a bird-like shape, complete with steel beams of wings that open and close.

Address: 700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States

8. Taliesin Preservation (Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center)

Taliesin Preservation

The Taliesin Preservation building, known also as the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center, was once the home of that famous architect as well as the studio where he worked.

The building, which began to be built in 1911, is a wonderful emanation of the Prairie School tradition of design, showcasing the Midwestern plains’ natural landscape.

It has since become one of Wisconsin’s tourist attractions.

Wright worked on this home right up to his passing in 1959, spending lots of time here in the summer before heading elsewhere when the seasons changed.

The home now is filled with art and is a great way to learn more about the great architect and his many works, making it one of the best bucket list additions to those interested in design.

Tours are available!

Address: 5607 County Rd C, Spring Green, WI 53588, United States

9. EAA AirVenture Museum and EAA’s AirVenture Oshkosh

Don Harder / flickr

If you’re looking for some fun in Wisconsin, the EAA AirVenture Museum of Oshkosh is a great way to do so.

Its name stands for Experimental Aircraft Association and, as that name suggests, it is dedicated to showcasing the history of aircraft and aircraft technology.

It boasts approximately 200 historically significant aircraft and provides exciting features like short airplane rides, a KidVenture Gallery, a hangar for World War II aviation exhibits, and even a flight simulator.

But if you’d like an option for what to do that’s bigger and more involved, EAA’s AirVenture Oshkosh will provide that.

Sponsored by the EAA, it is an annual aviation event that occurs in the summer.

It is the largest of its kind globally and has been happening since 1953.

The event lasts for about a week and includes workshops, air shows, forums, and more.

Over half a million visitors from an impressive 80 different nations come to visit the area for the EAA’s AirVenture Oshkosh, and it’s not something to miss out on!

Address: 3000 Poberezny Rd, Oshkosh, WI 54902, United States

10. Wisconsin State Capitol

TouchingPixel / Shutterstock

The Wisconsin State Capitol sits in Madison, and its importance makes it one of the state’s key things to see.

The building, which is a National Historic Landmark, was finished in 1917, and it’s actually the state’s third after the first was rebuilt for expansion and the second one burned down!

The Wisconsin State Capitol building is Madison’s tallest building by law and is home to the Office of the Governor, the state Supreme Court, and the legislature.

Majestic in appearance, it boasts an elegant design and a lovely dome-shaped roof, as well as a statue of Wisconsin with a badger on her helmet.

One of the things to see in the State Capitol building is its rather curious collection of fossils set in the stone of its structure, totaling about 40 different kinds.

There are also lots of beautiful works of art, handmade furniture, murals, and more.

In the summer, the observation deck at the building opens up to the public, so time your trip accordingly!

Address: 2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703, United States

11. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Gottography / Shutterstock

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is one of the best and most serene vacation spots to head to this weekend.

It refers to a 69,372-acre space on Lake Superior, Wisconsin, that is made up of 21 different islands.

Each island comes with its own places to see, allowing you to enjoy something every season.

The islands of Apostle Islands National Lakeshore are made from red sandstone and are packed with natural beauty, ranging from sea caves of sandstone to white sand beaches and from old-growth forests to gorgeous lighthouse structures.

Apostille Islands Cruises offers a fantastic way to view the natural marvel of the islands at your leisure and convenience.

Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814, United States

12. Lambeau Field and the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame

Grindstone Media Group / Shutterstock

Few can forget about watching a Green Bay Packers game when considering things to do in Wisconsin.

This football team, iconic and renowned, is a famous “symbol” of the state, and even if you aren’t much of a sports fan, learning about the team’s growth and history is as fun as watching one of their games.

It is, therefore, obvious that Lambeau Field should be a to-visit site seeing as it is where the Green Bay Packers play their home games.

For a small town like Green Bay to host such a hugely successful team is nothing short of impressive, and the fact that the team has 13 trophies from championships to back it up is even more incredible!

At Lambeau Field, you’ll also find the Green Bay Packer Hall of Fame, a two-floor building covering 15,000 square feet, filled with interactive exhibits, audio, and video displays, recordings of the Packers’ plays, unique artifacts, and a replica of the office of Vince Lombardi, renowned Packers coach.

You’ll get to see over 80 years of history in one exciting place!

Address: 1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304, United States

13. Dr. Evermor’s Forevertron

John M Ford / Shutterstock

Dr. Evermor’s Forevertron is the biggest sculpture of scrap metal in the world, situated outdoors in the center of the state.

It has become one of the best unusual Wisconsin attractions for those who hunt down hidden gems and strange locations.

The sculpture was made by Tom Every, who was an industrial wrecker, meaning he professionally demolished and destroyed buildings.

When he retired, he figured it was time for a change, and in 1983 he decided to become a creator instead and gave himself the name Dr. Evermor.

Dr. Evermor was a character and persona, imagined as an English Victorian inventory with a traumatic backstory involving a lightning storm and a minister father.

Every created the huge sculpture park of the Forevertron as Dr. Evermor’s lair.

Everything in Dr. Evermor’s Forevertron is made from scrap metal.

A testament to Every’s skill, he also worked on the House on the Rock near the area.

Address: S7703 US-12, North Freedom, WI 53951, United States

14. Interstate State Park

Linda McKusick / Shutterstock

The Interstate State Park is two state parks stuck together – one in Wisconsin and one in Minnesota , divided by the flowing St. Croix River.

It is one of the top places to visit in Wisconsin for outdoor enthusiasts or those seeking an adventure in nature.

The backdrop of the park is dramatic and packed with all sorts of information, especially the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, for which the Ice Age Interpretive Center provides information.

There are lots of things you can enjoy at Interstate State Park.

Lake O’ the Dalles offers a beach to lounge on and water to swim in.

The Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway is beautiful to follow and trace.

Camping sites are scattered about, rocks are fit for climbing, and hiking trails totaling 8 miles provide lots of opportunities for exploration.

All in all, it’s a recipe for a good time!

Address: 1275 WI-35, St Croix Falls, WI 54024, United States

15. Schoolhouse Beach

Shawn Einerson / Shutterstock

Schoolhouse Beach is a beautiful beach on the lakeshore, and it’s one of Wisconsin’s best points of interest because of its unusual nature.

Instead of sand, it has limestone rocks.

These smooth rocks provide a foot massage as you walk along them, though some may be a little too harsh for sensitive bare feet.

But beyond just its odd sand, Schoolhouse Beach offers a relaxing experience without the worry of betting sand in your swimsuit.

It is situated on Washington Island and is one of only five of the world’s beaches without sand.

It earned its name from a schoolhouse that once existed near the shore, though that house no longer exists now.

So, how did the rocks come to be?

They were polished by glaciers over thousands upon thousands of years, and the rocks are now so coveted that it is illegal to bring one home with you!

You can, however, make structures with them on the beach or toss them into the water.

And, of course, common beach things to enjoy, like swimming and sunbathing, can be done, too!

Address: 1824 Washington Harbor Rd, Washington, WI 54246, United States

16. National Railroad Museum

Larry Darling / flickr

The National Railroad Museum can be found in Ashwaubenon, where it was built in 1956.

The museum is one of the fun and cheap things to do in Wisconsin, and as it is also one of the country’s oldest railroad-related museums, it’s a must-do for locomotive lovers.

At the National Railroad Museum, you’ll see some of the world’s biggest steam locomotives, a surrounding standard gauge track, and over a century’s worth of history.

You’ll get to see army trains, charming fancy cabooses, and even ones for kids themed after Thomas the Tank Engine.

On Halloween, there are special spooky train rides as well!

Address: 2285 S Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54304, United States

17. Circus World Museum

Keith Homan / Shutterstock

The Circus World Museum began with the ever-famous icon, the Ringling Bros. Circus – one of the best-known circuses in history and currently the largest surviving company of its kind.

When television became more popular and common in households in the 1950s, the Ringling brothers’ attorney, John Kelly, recommended that a museum could be set up to preserve the age of the circus and the legacy of the brothers before the circus industry died too far.

The Circus World Museum opened in Wisconsin’s Baraboo in 1959 and, over time, has grown to encompass 63 acres.

It showcases the history of the Ringling brothers, the story of all of circus and its history, and collections of various artifacts such as ads, posters, paintings, photos, wagons, and more.

If you’re looking for more things to do while in Wisconsin in the summer, come around to the museum to watch live circus entertainment and activities!

Address: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913, United States

18. Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

Tristan Crist Magic Theatre

The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre is situated at Lake Geneva , Wisconsin, where it has become known as one of the state’s prime entertainment tourist attractions.

It is the theatre of magician Tristan Crist, who performs shows lasting an hour that showcase all sorts of fun illusions, tricks, and mirages in unique and up-close detail.

There are only 175 seats at the Tristan Crist Magic Theatre, which allows for an intimate audience experience, and a big screen broadcasting Crist’s antics allows you to carefully watch his every move.

Address: 100 N Edwards Blvd, Lake Geneva, WI 53147, United States

19. Washington Island Stavkirke

Matthew E. Hein / Shutterstock

The Washington Island Stavkirke looks like it isn’t even a part of Wisconsin, with a traditional wooden stave style that makes it look like it came straight from medieval Norway.

For the religious, it’s one of the state’s best places to travel, and for the irreligious, it’s a valuable architectural spot regardless.

It was built in 1991 and took three years to finish.

The Washington Island Stavkirke belongs to the Trinity Evangelical Lutheran Church of Wisconsin and was built specifically to honor the natural heritage of Scandinavia in the area.

Most other native Norwegian stave churches have been damaged or destroyed over the years, so this is a unique treat you won’t get to see in many other places.

Address: Town Line Rd, Washington, WI 54246, United States

20. Pabst Mansion

MaxyM / Shutterstock

Pabst Mansion is an incredibly charming house made by Pabst Brewing Company founder Captain Frederick Pabst.

The opulent home sits in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and has become one of the top things to see for history buffs and architecture lovers alike.

It is built in a lovely Flemish Renaissance Revival design on the exterior, while the interior mixes Neo-Renaissance and Neo-Rococo styles.

When first built, it boasted an impressive 66 rooms with 14 fireplaces and a special study for the Captain with 14 hidden compartments.

Pabst and family lived in this home from the late 19th century, after its 1892 completion, up to 1908.

The house would then become the residence of many Archbishops of the local Roman Catholic Archdiocese before the church sold it to Wisconsin Heritages, Inc. in 1978.

Now, it houses an impressive 4,000 pieces of fine art and decorative works, with furniture, china, and even clocks adding to the overall experience.

Tours are educational and provide insight into the life of Pabst and the wealthy classes in that era.

Address: 2000 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, United States

21. American Science & Surplus

American Science & Surplus

American Science & Surplus is a rather fascinating and fun spot in Wisconsin and should be on your list of places to go if you’re a geek, a creative person, or coming with family.

It is a shop filled with difficult-to-find materials, items, and other products for tinkerers, creators, DIY-lovers, educators, scientists, and more.

If you’ve needed military, industrial, or other tools for random passion projects, chances are that this shop has you covered.

While a lot of the stuff in American Science & Surplus is a little odd, it’s also worth treasuring.

The store has supplied items for all sorts of different people’s personal projects, such as dioramas, robots, instruments, decorations, and more.

The shop offers mystery items, scavenger hunts, informative displays, and funny signs to help you along your hunt for supplies, too.

Address: 6901 W Oklahoma Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53219, United States

22. Green Bay Botanical Garden

Amdizdarevic / Shutterstock

Green Bay Botanical Garden , spanning 47 acres, was created in 1996 in its titular city of Green Bay.

It began with the simple goal of encouraging visitors to feel welcomed and happy and today is one of the best things to do in Wisconsin for calm recreational activities and sightseeing.

The gardens at the Green Bay Botanical Garden are very diverse, with multiple different areas for different plants.

The Vanderperren English Cottage Garden is a highly traditional English garden.

The Four Seasons Garden provides plants that grow throughout the year, even in winter, like crabapples, lilacs, and magnolias.

The Kaftan Lusthaus is Scandanavian-styled.

There’s so much to do and enjoy, especially during the WPS Garden of Lights event, which features more than 200,000 lights illuminating the garden!

Address: 2600 Larsen Rd, Green Bay, WI 54303, United States

23. Door County

Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Door County is one of the prettiest places to vacation in the state of Wisconsin.

Door County is situated approximately 46 miles away from the more busy area of Green Bay.

It is packed with natural beauty and looks out over Lake Michigan, and it has since become famous as one of the larger Wisconsin attractions, providing hotels and campsites for visitors from all walks of life.

Tons of visitors have fun heading to Door County annually thanks to all its activities.

You can go to the water to swim, fish, dive, sail, and kayak, or you can explore by biking or hiking.

As a small town, it’s got a lot of rural charm and even has a fair share of historic buildings to head into – and a whopping 8 wineries, all on its own!

Address: Wisconsin, United States

24. Minocqua Lake

Jason Patrick Ross / Shutterstock

Minocqua Lake is one of the most beautiful places to visit in Wisconsin.

It features breathtaking scenery in Oneida County and is a part of the state’s Lakeland area.

The lake covers 1339 acres of land and boasts a maximum depth of an impressive 60 feet, with fish like walleye, panfish, bass, pike, and musky swimming in its depths.

There are all sorts of activities to enjoy at Minocqua Lake.

You can take pictures, play water sports, relax and camp out, stay at a resort, get yourself a tan, or even wait till winter so you can go snowboarding or skiing!

25. FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard

sporst / flickr

The FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard , which stands for Fiberglass Animals, Shapes, and Trademarks, is one of the best places of interest to see in Wisconsin if you like creepy and bizarre locations – though the true reason for this graveyard is certainly more whimsical than scary!

It rests behind the workshop of FAST and holds large molds of fiberglass, left behind from all their many, many jobs.

FAST is a company that creates large figures and items that catch the eye, such as huge statues outside roadside restaurants and the like.

Molds are often tailored to specific commissions, so once the work is done, the molds are moved out into the backyard, where they become one of many in a graveyard of molds.

They appear in a wide array of shapes and colors, from large Santa Clauses to skulls and from mice to dogs.

Time and the Wisconsin climate have made the tenants of the FAST Fiberglass Mold Graveyard slowly wither away, providing an appearance akin to old stone.

This makes the area feel like the leftover from an ancient burial plot, which adds to the unreal, fantasy-like experience of walking through it.

Address: 14177 Co Hwy Q, Sparta, WI 54656, United States

26. The Farm Historic Living Museum

The Farm Historic Living Museum

The Farm Historic Living Museum is situated in Door County, Wisconsin, and is a must-see because it’s among the state’s cheap things to do and is just a whole lot of fun!

It is a living museum designed to depict rural America from the 19th century and beyond, and its approach to education makes it ideal for families with children, though it is a great experience for any age.

The Farm Historic Living Museum provides the chance to feel lambs, kids, and piglets, as well as to view old buildings such as the woodshed, cabin, granary, and sugar shack.

In the process, you’ll learn about what life was like on the prairie of the state back in the day, and you can browse and watch exhibits on farm life, crops, livestock, and beyond.

Address: 4285 WI-57, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

27. Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary

BlueBarronPhoto / Shutterstock

The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the free things to do in Wisconsin.

It spans 700 acres of land in Green Bay and functions as a refuge territory for wildlife, and it’s the city’s largest park, too.

It is the state’s second-biggest rehabilitation program for wildlife and, every year, it cares for about 4,500 injured and orphaned animals.

With 6 miles of trails for skiing and hiking, a bunch of educational displays, a Manger Lagoon for catch-and-release fishing, and lots of animal exhibits, it’s easy to see why the activities of the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary are so popular.

It also offers programs for people of all ages, a number of community events, and seasonal camps to enjoy!

Address: 1660 E Shore Dr, Green Bay, WI 54302, United States

28. Wisconsin Maritime Museum

The Wisconsin Maritime Museum is among the best tourist attractions for naval enthusiasts.

It is a delightful trove of treasures from all across the history of American seafaring, specifically in the region of the Great Lakes as well as the state’s vessels used in World War II.

It was founded as the Manitowoc Submarine Memorial Association in 1969.

The biggest artifact exhibited at the Maritime Museum is an entire submarine, launched into the Pacific front by the United States in World War II.

It is called the USS Cobia.

In its service, it successfully downed two different ships before being retired.

It is now impressively restored, with a tourable top inner floor and upper deck.

Here, you’ll be able to see torpedo rooms, engine rooms, quarters, and more.

Beyond the USS Cobia, the Maritime Museum showcases all sorts of materials, artifacts, and archives through presented research, interactive exhibits, and lots of educational programs.

A car ferry gallery, a model ship, an operating steam engine, special children’s rooms, and much more take up the sprawling 60,000 square foot space.

Address: 75 Maritime Dr, Manitowoc, WI 54220, United States

29. Sputnik IV Crash Site

Sputnik IV Crash Site

One of the top free things to do in the state is to simply visit the casual and rather inconspicuous attraction that is the Sputnik IV Crash Site .

It’s a great option for when your list of what to do in Wisconsin is already getting very long and you want to squeeze in a small and quick bit of novelty!

The Sputnik IV Crash Site sits in Manitowoc on 8th Street.

It is a simple brass ring that is fixed in the center of the road – an unassuming and almost uninteresting feature.

But this ring marks the exact spot where Sputnik, the famed Soviet satellite, crashed, becoming a part of astronomical history forever – and a part of the strange events and festivals that the state holds!

The piece of Sputnik that landed here was approximately 20 pounds in weight and fell in 1962 from the much heavier 5-ton full Sputnik-IV.

The spacecraft had been launched two years prior by the Soviets, but upon trying to return it to earth the day of the crash, a computer glitch led to a malfunction.

Most of its body would burn in the heat of a high-altitude atmosphere, and all that was left unmelted crashed into Manitowoc.

At first, no one paid much attention to the hunk of metal – that is, until news broke about the crash.

The police had the piece sent to the Smithsonian, who then sent it back to Russia, and then replicas were made.

Meanwhile, the site of the crash was immortalized forever with a simple ring.

Address: Park St and N 8th St, Manitowoc, WI, United States

30. Old World Wisconsin

Jane Zalewski / Shutterstock

Old World Wisconsin is a wonderful exhibit of 60 gorgeously restored structures dating back to the late 19th century.

It was at this time that immigrants arrived in the Midwest, marking this area as one of their many destinations to settle down and begin a new life on better shores.

Old World Wisconsin is essentially a living exhibit, a recreation of a farming village from the 1880s complete with a general store, a blacksmith, and fields with livestock.

Activities of all kinds provide fun and engaging ways to learn about the genuine daily lives of those who lived in the depicted times.

It teaches farmwork, handicrafts, and schoolhouse education in inviting ways.

There are many things to see and appreciate about this lovely Old World attraction.

It’s the biggest museum of its kind – that is, a living rural history museum – on the planet, covering 600 acres of land.

You will learn with empathy and connection about those who persevered and lived here through hands-on attractions, interactive experiences, and spaces rich in sensory engagement.

The most popular attractions at Old World include Crossroads Village, which brings you through Main Street for a glimpse into small-town life with immigrant settlers, and Life On The Farms, which allows you to learn about farming traditions in the vein of resources and land.

There are also Scandinavian Homesteads that showcase the difficulty of 19th-century survival, Heritage Animal Breeds to show off traditional breeds of livestock, and Catch Wheel Fever, which explains the role of shared social spaces and sports in community identity.

Address: W372 S9727 WI-67, Eagle, WI 53119, United States

31. The Wisconsin Great River Road

Wisconsin Great River Road

The Wisconsin Great River Road is the state’s only national scenic route as officially declared.

It spans 250 miles across a whopping 33 cities, each one full of vacation spots and perfect for sightseeing.

It’s one of the best ways to get a good feel of the state in a road trip sort of fashion, with lots of places to see for interests of all sorts.

Along the Wisconsin Great River Road, you’ll find rivers and lakes for boating and fishing, small towns for gallery-viewing and shopping, parks and gardens for outdoor adventures, wineries to tour, and hiking and camping spots galore.

And, of course, the road itself offers stunning views of the surrounding area that make the drive alone very much worth it!

Address: Wisconsin State Hwy 35 La Crosse, WI 54601, United States

Planning to travel to Madison? If you do plan the trip, here are some fun things to do in Madison, WI !

32. Lost City Forest

Dori , CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

The Lost City Forest sits in an Arboretum on the southeastern side of the University of Wisconsin, a surprisingly natural wooded area that borders a march.

True to its name, it feels like a world away from the surrounding area and is the perfect getaway this weekend.

It’s also one of the most fun free things to do while in Wisconsin!

Surprisingly, the name “Lost City Forest” isn’t actually because of its secluded nature.

Instead, it is so named thanks to a 20th-century housing development project that failed in the 1920s here, when Madison was growing quickly and developers were seeking to make a tidy profit with new homes.

One of those developers was the Lake Forest Land Company, and they lined sidewalks and roads and put down concrete foundations.

But the marshy ground was unstable and sucked the foundations down – and then the Great Depression arrived, shutting down all efforts.

Address: 2449 Arboretum Dr, Madison, WI 53713, United States

33. Paine Art Center and Gardens

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The Paine Art Center and Gardens make up Wisconsin attractions that are very much suited to the expression of art and beauty with nature and historic charm.

It sits in an estate made in 1925 by Ithaca architect Bryan Fleming for Nathan and Jessie Paine, although the couple would never wind up living here.

The architectural design is distinctly Tudor Revival in order to pay tribute to the English roots of the Paine family, but the interior and exterior have significant contrast, allowing the English inspiration to be drawn out across centuries of styles.

Nathan Paine himself was instrumental in the unique appearance of the home and grounds, insisting on limestone stonework and other materials based on his keen eye for craftsmanship.

The natural beauty of the landscape of Wisconsin further compliments the homey, charming vintage appearance of the Paine Art Center and Gardens.

Inside the art center itself, once the home of the Paines, you’ll find a beautiful rotating exhibit of applied and fine arts alike.

The furniture within comes from different historical periods and many were specially commissioned.

The upper floors lie unfinished until today.

Meanwhile, the gardens outdoors at the Paine Art Center and Gardens are once again inspired by English styles.

They are a collection of twenty botanical garden locations perfect for education and enjoyment.

Perennials for local climate as well as native fauna of all kinds make up much of the lovely array.

Address: 1410 Algoma Blvd, Oshkosh, WI 54901, United States

34. Palace Theater in the Dells

Palace Theater in the Dells

The Palace Theater in the Dells is one of the most fun places to visit in Wisconsin for high-quality entertainment.

It is famous for being an excellent recreational location, providing an impressive array of different performances and shows across all sorts of genres.

Each ticket can be bought alongside a snack or meal and all shows are suitable for children.

The Palace Theater in the Dells was opened by Anthony and Joseph Tomaska, who boast an impressive three decades of experience in the fields of food service and performance.

This allowed them to launch the Dinner Theater to applaudable success, and their interactive dinner show, called Tony n’ Tina’s Wedding, has the honor of being one of the region’s longest continuously running shows with a 17-year record.

Address: 564 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy S, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

Planning to visit Wisconsin Dells soon? Why not check out some of the best things to do in Wisconsin Dells ?

35. National Mustard Museum

BobbbyLight / flickr

The National Mustard Museum is one of the state’s famous locations of interest, a highlight of the lovely Mount Horeb until it moved to Middleton in order to expand.

It is home to an impressive collection of mustards from across the planet, including “antique” bottles of old mustards.

Though small, the National Mustard Museum is nothing short of delightful.

It provides a rather large number of mustard-related artifacts and items as well as a movie stream that showcases thematic films like Mustard: The Spice of Nations.

There is also a gift shop that sells several hundred different types of mustard, ranging from spicy options to relatively tame, fruity ones.

You can sample them as you please

The National Mustard Museum is one of the state’s most charming points of interest and is also one of its free things to do.

Don’t forget to drop by in August on the month’s first Saturday for the National Mustard Day event, which is an entire festival held at the museum!

Address: 7477 Hubbard Ave, Middleton, WI 53562, United States

36. Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts

Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts

The Wisconsin Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts is an officially designated landmark of the City of Cedarburg, where its tale began in 1988 as part of the local state’s Quilt History Project.

The project was meant to preserve, promote, and showcase the creativity and art of local quilters, and its mission has only expanded ever since.

In 2001, the Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts moved to its current location, a 2.2-acre plot of land, where it sits in the farmstead of Hoffmann-Boeker – a spot filled with interesting structures made of stone and timber.

There are seven such structures in total, including a dairy barn and silo, a blacksmithy, a farmhouse, a smokehouse, and an ice house.

Throughout the farmstead, the Museum of Quilts and Fiber Arts showcases all sorts of items related to its title, including clothing, coverlets, costumes, and textiles, some dating all the way back to the 18th century.

More than 8,000 quilts have been captured and recorded here.

It’s a must-do spot to explore the fun and colorful history of fiber arts and quilts in the state and beyond!

Address: N50 W5050, Portland Rd, Cedarburg, WI 53012, United States

37. Madison Eats Food Tours

Madison Eats Food Tours

Madison Eats Food Tours is one of the greatest things to do in Wisconsin for foodies.

It offers a tour of the city’s diverse culinary backdrop, its local businesses, and even some unique local events.

The company began operations in 2012, though the story of its founder Otehlia Cassidy, an award-winning food writer, dates back much further.

Her food blog grew into a rich food tour experience that could bring the taste of Madison to its visitors.

Tours at Madison Eats Food Tours can involve cycling or walking.

Interestingly, a lot of the most delicious fare from local restaurants serve international cuisines, such as Ethiopian, Indonesian, and Thai delicacies.

Still, you’ll get to see markets, taste artisanal wines and cheeses, and much more!

Address: Madison, WI, United States

38. Swing Park

V’ron / flickr

Swing Park is a bit of a hidden gem, but that’s what makes it such a good answer for where to visit if you’re looking for more unusual stuff to do.

It is situated right beneath the famous Holton Street Bridge of Milwaukee and is secluded and serene, providing a tranquil place to while away some time or even enjoy a romantic moment or two.

There are five typical swings that hang from the bridge, made with halved tires, as well as two tire swings – one for horizontal and one for vertical orientations.

There is also a plastic blue swing of a suitable adult size that is designed to be accessible by those with disabilities, using a rubberized subsurface on the ground for better ease.

The entire space of Swing Park aside from that rubberized plot uses soft sand as a blanket over the ground, and there are wooden benches to sit on and while away the time.

It’s wild to think that the bridge above is so busy when the park is so peaceful!

Address: 1737 N Water St, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States

39. Mars Cheese Castle

jpellgen (@1179_jp) / flickr

As far as unorthodox places to visit in Wisconsin go, the Mars Cheese Castle takes the cake.

Originally, it was nothing but a gas station, opened in 1947 for a simple and uninteresting purpose.

But after the station burned down a decade later, owner Mario Ventura Sr. set up the much more fascinating purveyor of Mars Cheese Castle, earning the spot in the junction the name of the most visible cheese interchange in the state!

Since it opened in 1957, the Mars Cheese Castle has provided visitors with a wide range of cheese and similar products to purchase and enjoy.

Trouble would seem to come in 2011 when the highway where the “castle” sat was set to be widened.

The Ventura family took it on the chin and did not lose heart, using the forced location change to create a new and better image for their business.

Today, Mars Cheese Castle has the extremely fun appearance of a genuine castle, fitted with a watchtower and a drawbridge on a stately facade.

It’s a great option for what to do, whether you’re looking to buy cheese-related items or simply marvel at the castle’s novelty!

Address: 2800 W Frontage Rd, Kenosha, WI 53144, United States

40. Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

Joe Ferrer / Shutterstock

The Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory , referred to by Wisconsin locals simply as The Domes, earned its nickname for obvious reasons.

It is made up of three domes of glass that sit in a Milwaukee park, created in the 50s and 60s and eventually developed to have three separate themes.

Altogether, they make up some fairly interesting stuff to see.

The first dome is the Show Dome, which has a rotation of different garden shows on a seasonal basis.

The next is the Desert Dome, which boasts flora local to dry climates, especially from the Americas and Africa.

Finally, there’s the Tropical Dome, which is home to more than a thousand different species of plants that flourish in a tropical climate, including trees laden with fruit!

Address: 524 S Layton Blvd, Milwaukee, WI 53215, United States

41. Treinen Farm Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

Treinen Farm Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch

Treinen Farm Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch is one of the great places to go with family.

It is situated on a family-owned farm that covers 200 acres of ground.

The Treinan family has managed and owned the farm for close to one hundred years and has been a wonderful spot for visitors to come and enjoy the autumn seasons.

The Treinen Farm grows corn, pumpkins, hay, and soybeans, and its corn maze is probably the most loved in the state thanks to the fact that it’s also the biggest.

Apart from that, the in-season months, especially in fall, come with hayrides, a pumpkin patch, rides on a horse wagon, a corn sandbox, farm animals to visit, a bounce house, cows to be milked, a playground of tractor tires, a pumpkin slingshot, and more.

Address: W12420 State Road 60, Lodi, WI 53555, United States

Planning a trip to Milwaukee? If you do plan the trip, here are some of the best things to do in Milwaukee !

42. Shaker’s Cigar Bar

Shakers Milwaukee

If “ghosts” is on your list of what to see on your vacation and you, coincidentally, are also feeling a little peckish, Shaker’s Cigar Bar has you covered on both counts.

The place serves good food and has a rather somber history, though the real reason it’s among Wisconsin attractions is that it is believed to be very haunted!

Shaker’s Cigar Bar opened in the late 1800s and offers a unique glimpse into 19th century Milwaukee, as well as two ghost tours across the apartment complex, basement, and bar at the building on Walker’s Point.

With a huge list of illegal shenanigans that have taken place here over the years, it’s no surprise that its sordid tales and anecdotes have resulted in some patrons of the bar sticking around with unfinished business.

There are lots of testimonials from workers and visitors alike when it comes to paranormal experiences, but Shaker’s Cigar Bar is also interesting because of its preserved history and grounds.

Staff can tell you tales of genuine mob dealings that took place here as well as some genuine unsolved mysteries.

All in all, this is a fascinating experience you won’t soon forget!

Address: 422 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI 53204, United States

Start Planning Your Trip To Wisconsin

Wisconsin’s many vacation places promise a variety of different attractions and forms of enjoyment, ranging from the outdoorsy to the artistic and from the architectural to the historical.

This list should help you narrow down the places to visit in Wisconsin that you want to make a priority!

Happy travels.

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Wisconsin (WI) » 25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin

Water is a recurring theme in my list of the most beautiful places in Wisconsin . After all this is a state with a shoreline on two Great Lakes.

In the east is Lake Michigan, while the very north of Wisconsin touches Lake Superior, the largest and wildest of the Great Lakes.

Wisconsin’s interior is flecked with thousands of freshwater lakes, while rivers have shaped the landscape particularly in the Driftless Area of southwest Wisconsin untouched by Ice Age glaciers and etched with impressive gorges.

In the northeast, the Niagara Escarpment shoots off around the shore of Lake Michigan, and this impressive belt of rock reaches the water at the Door Peninsula , a natural and cultural playground akin to Cape Cod.

1. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

I’ll begin in northernmost Wisconsin, off the Bayfield Peninsula, where there’s a set of 21 islands protected as one of the United States’ ten national lakeshores.

Reached only by water or air, Apostle Islands are a treasure, with sea caves, striated sandstone cliffs, old-growth forests, ghost towns, nine historic lighthouses, underwater caves, and vibrant wildlife.

With some careful planning you could embark on the kayak adventure of a lifetime, discovering sea caves and remote beaches, and camping far from civilization.

Guides paddling trips are available too, or you can see the islands’ wonders from the comfort of a yacht on a cruise. The town of Bayfield is your way in, with a trove of practical info and advice at the headquarters and visitor center.

2. Devil’s Lake State Park

I think it’s impossible not to be spellbound by this strange natural anomaly, where a lake with no surface outlet is framed by bluffs made up of some of the oldest surface rock in North America.

Devil’s Lake is a vestige of the Wisconsin River, which is now several miles to the southeast.

At the end of the last Ice Age this stretch of river was effectively dammed by terminal moraines at its north and south ends, and impounded to the east and west by the walls of a gorge with quartzite dating back some 1.6 billion years.

Hike the Tumbled Rocks Trail on the west side leading past peculiar deposits along the shore, and then loop back via the West Bluff Trail, with steep drop-offs and jaw-dropping views up to 500 feet above the lake.

3. Door County

Running through northeast Wisconsin, the Niagara Escarpment is an immense arc through the Great Lakes region. In Door County this belt forms a long peninsula, pushing out into Lake Michigan, with magnificent limestone outcroppings on both shores.

Door County is compared to Cape Cod, for its charming coastal communities, quirky specialty shops, vineyards, and effervescent culture, with more than 80 museums, theaters, studios and galleries.

This is all intermingled with nature that will take your breath away, with five state parks and 19 county parks, while ten lighthouses bring some nautical romance to the 300 miles of shoreline. With so much to see, I’ll cover several locations on the Door Peninsula later in this list.

4. Copper Falls State Park

There’s thrilling scenery at Copper Falls State Park, where the Bad River flows through a steep and dark gorge.

These formations are part of the Gogebic Range, extending east into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and valued historically for its iron ore deposits.

To see the highlights on one amazing hike, take the Doughboy’s Nature Trail, a light 1.7-mile loop with three waterfalls on the way.

To go with its magnificent formations, I love how the state park has a modern historical interest, having been developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the depths of the Great Depression. Roads, trails and several log buildings hark back to that time.

Also read :  The Best US National Parks to Visit

5. Bayfield

Wisconsin’s smallest city is the departure point for the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, but that doesn’t tell the full story of a place often voted among the most beloved small towns in the Midwest .

Bayfield is a historic lumber town, reborn as a tourist escape with spellbinding vistas of Lake Superior, a stirring maritime heritage, hiking trails all along the peninsula, and a slew of orchards to visit close by.

Those fruit trees come into bloom in early June, and there’s a festival in Bayfield to mark the occasion, as well as the popular Apple Fest in October during the harvest.

I’d also keep an eye on the schedule at Big Top Chautauqua, a famous seasonal live music venue that has welcomed the likes of Johnny Cash, Loretta Lynn, B.B. King and Willie Nelson in its time.

6. Wisconsin Dells

Firmly on the tourist map, Wisconsin Dells takes its name from a five-mile sandstone gorge. This rock, sculpted into sinuous cliffs and branching off along tributaries, is highly delicate, and best viewed from a boat on a tour.

One section open to the public is the Witches Gulch, where a boardwalk takes you through a dark, mossy ravine.

More than anywhere else on my list, the town of Wisconsin Dells is a family destination, visited by as many as five million people each year.

As well as those geological wonders, you’ve got a whole lineup of indoor and outdoor water parks (this is The Waterpark Capital of the World), along with zoos, museums, and other attractions. Like a short riverwalk for a snapshot of the scenery enveloping the town.

7. Taliesin

In 1911, to get away from the scandal caused by his relationship with Mamah Borthwick, Frank Lloyd Wright returned to the landscape of his childhood, by the Wisconsin River in the hilly Driftless Region.

Sitting on the brow of a hill, Taliesin was reworked in 1914 and 1925 and the 800-acre estate is dotted with architecture from every chapter in his prestigious career.

This would be his main residence and studio for the test of his life, encapsulating his philosophy of Organic Architecture better than any other site.

At the core is the Taliesin residence, accompanied by buildings from the 1890s up to the 1950s, including the Romeo and Juliet Windmill (1896), Hillside Home School (1903), and Midway Barn (1949).

Also check out my guide on the most romantic weekend getaways in Wisconsin !

8. Cave Point County Park

There’s breathtaking, rough-hewn beauty at this unique place on the east side of the Door Peninsula.

At Cave Point County Park you’ll come to a line of dolomite cliffs shaped by the waves on Lake Michigan. Something that fascinates me about this place is how its character is entirely transformed by the conditions.

When the surf is boisterous there’s an almost intimidating feel to Cave Point, with waves thundering against the rock and sending plumes of mist through blowholes.

Hours later, the waves can be little more than ripples and you’ll be tempted to take a kayak tour or join the swimmers leaping into the clear water.

The property is surrounded on three sides by Whitefish Dunes State Park, with fine sandy beaches and the largest dunes on the western shore of Lake Michigan.

9. Peninsula State Park

Facing Green Bay on the Door Peninsula, Wisconsin’s most versatile state park packs unspoiled nature, soaring bluffs, historic landmarks, and endless opportunities for recreation.

As a priority, I think everyone should head straight for the 180-foot Eagle Bluff on the park’s north side, where there’s an observation tower that you can scale via a magnificent 850-foot canopy walk for an extraordinary panorama of the peninsula, Horseshoe Island and Eagle Harbor.

Also allow plenty of time for the idyllic Eagle Bluff Light (1868), open for tours, and with awesome views of the Strawberry Islands.

Peninsula State Park has an abundance of facilities to cater to its many visitors, with 470 family campsites, miles of trails for hiking and biking, a gorgeous beach, two golf courses, the White Cedar Nature Center, and a large choice of picnic areas.

Also see :  15 Best Lakes in Wisconsin

10. Newport State Park

Things start to feel very remote as you approach the northern tip of the Door Peninsula, and this seclusion makes Newport State Park the best place in Wisconsin to study the night sky.

The International Dark-Sky Association designated it a Dark Sky Park in 2017, and it’s a title given only to parts of the world with the least light pollution.

In the daytime the park’s wilderness is ripe for discovery on foot, with more than 30 miles of trails, all close to the shoreline of Lake Michigan, which is extraordinarily beautiful.

For a true outdoorsy experience I recommend a backpacking trip, as the park has 17 far-flung campsites that can only be reached on foot via trails or by kayak on the water.

11. Cedarburg

Milwaukeeans who need to slow things down can make the 20-mile trip north to Cedarburg , an artsy small town bursting with charm, history, and exciting events all year round.

Along Cedar Creek, Cedarburg grew up as a mill town in the 19th century, including the largest woolen mill west of Philadelphia.

The settlement that formed around these factories is now downtown, with more than 200 historic buildings, and several listings on the National Register of Historic Places.

I’d fill a weekend in Cedarburg with lazy strolls, a coasting bike ride on the Ozaukee Interurban Trail, and visits to museums, galleries, wineries, craft breweries and a distillery.

12. Pattison State Park

In the far northwest of Wisconsin you can track down the highest waterfall in the state. This is the dramatic Big Manitou Falls, 165 feet high, making it the fourth highest east of the Rockies.

You don’t need to be a daring adventurer to see one of the Wiconsin’s natural wonders, as there’s a parking lot just off State Trunk Highway 35, which cuts through the park, while a wooden observation deck at the top gives you the perfect view of the waterfall spilling into the gorge.

The smaller Little Manitou Falls is equally accessible on the south side of the park, while in between is the Interfalls Lake, with a 300-foot sandy beach.

Pattison State Park is a stop that can be done in an hour or so, but I’d advise packing mosquito repellent if you’re coming in summer.

Also check out my guide on the best waterfalls to visit in Wisconsin .

13. Perrot State Park

In the Driftless Region, Perrot State Park is at the scenic place where the Trempealeau River flows into the Mississippi. Here you can check out some of the finest views of the Mississippi to be had anywhere.

The bluffs along the river rise to more than 500 feet, and afford amazing vistas of the great river, and landmarks like the prominent Trempealeau Mountain, used as a navigation aid by steamboat captains.

If you’re hiking, my tip is to come prepared, as these trails can be surprisingly tough. Near the confluence, Trempealeau Bay is perfect for paddling in summer, with astounding views of the bluffs all around.

14. Eagle River Chain of Lakes

A part of Wisconsin a little neglected by my list is the Northern Highland, a large region of forestland peppered with glacial lakes. This is the setting for what is claimed to be the longest chain of freshwater lakes in the world.

Held as one of Wisconsin’s natural wonders, the Eagle River Chain of Lakes is made up of 28 connected bodies of clear water.

If you’re up for outdoor recreation, you’ll be in good hands, with more than 240,000 acres of public lands in Vilas County alone.

There’s a multitude of picturesque places for hiking, bicycling, horseback riding, boating, canoeing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing. In fact, this is one of the best spots around for bass, panfish and musky fishing, and you can arrange a charter or hire an experienced guide to help you land a monster.

15. Lake Geneva

From the 1870s the shores of the crystalline Geneva Lake in southeast Wisconsin became an opulent resort, favored by Chicago industrialists .

One of these was beer tycoon Conrad Seipp, whose elegant Queen Anne estate, Black Point, is open for tours in the summer months. Lake Geneva endures as a summer getaway, with an enticing public beach downtown, commanded by the grand Riviera Ballroom from 1932.

There’s a 21-mile trail around the entire lakeshore, for a leisurely stroll to admire those stately mansions.

You can also delve into the city’s glamorous history at the local museum, cruise the waters on any kind of vessel you can imagine, and check out a whole catalog of family attractions befitting a modern resort city.

16. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Winters in Wisconsin can outstay their welcome, but one place to go for unseasonal color is the Bolz Conservatory at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison.

This 10,000-square-foot greenhouse has some 750 plants from 550+ species and cultivars from tropical and sub-tropical zones. In the coldest months of the year, the temperature is a regular 18-26 °F. My favorite here is the rank-smelling corpse flower, which only blooms every few years.

Outside are 16 acres of perfectly tended gardens, among them a rock garden with a beautiful stream, a sunken garden, a rose garden with an observation tower, a meadow garden, and a Thai garden with a traditional sala pavilion.

17. Cave of the Mounds

In the Driftless Area you can make the descent into the best example of a limestone cave in the Upper Midwest. Flush with bizarre concretions, including flowstones, helictites, soda straws, oolites, and curtains, the Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark.

This cavity was gradually formed over some 488 million years and lay undiscovered until an opening was exposed in a quarry in 1939.

The cave has been open to the public since the following year, and has concrete walkways, masterful lighting, and lots of signs shedding light on the science and history of this place.

The countryside on ground level is a joy, and you can also get a handle on the area’s geology and its fascinating processes along the Karst Trail directly above the cave.

Read also :  15 Best Places to Live in Wisconsin

18. New Glarus

Known as America’s Little Switzerland, this picture-perfect village in Green County was founded in the 1840s by immigrants from the Swiss canton of Glarus.

Down the years, New Glarus held onto its Swiss heritage and then started to actively promote it in the 20th century.

Now, according to the municipal code, any new building or renovation downtown has to be in the Swiss style, giving rise to a quaint townscape of chalets, while Swiss customs like yodeling and Jass are still alive.

For things to do, you’ve got a whole calendar of Swiss-style festivals, one of the top craft breweries in the region, a vineyard, a village-style historical museum, and the adventure of the 24-mile Sugar River State Trail.

19. Horicon Marsh

The largest freshwater marsh in the country is in southeastern Wisconsin, at the site of a silted-up glacial lake.

Spread across more than 33,000 acres, the Horicon Marsh is a Ramsar site, and a crucial spot for Canada geese and several duck species to rest on their migrations.

The landscape is divided into a National Wildlife Refuge in the north and a State Wildlife Area in the south, with three visitor centers to check out.

You can hike along a boardwalk to view egrets, drive a three-mile auto tour, and launch a kayak in the State Wildlife Area, off Wisconsin Highway 28. My ideal time to visit is, of course, in spring and fall for the Canada geese migrations, bringing thousands of birdwatchers to the marsh.

20. Ephraim

To my mind, the best place to see the sun go down in Wisconsin is at this stunning village in Door County, just east of Peninsula State Park. Ephraim has a pristine view west across Eagle Harbor to the park’s beech-covered bluffs.

This is another place with strong roots, settled in the 1850s by Norwegian Protestants, belonging to the Moriavian Church.

With cute whitewashed buildings, the village is well preserved, walkable and packed with galleries, studios, and local businesses like Wilson’s Ice Cream, a fixture since 1906.

In summer it’s hard to resist the call of Eagle Harbour, whether you’re kayaking, paddleboarding, jet skiing, or yachting, or simply taking it all in from Harborside Park.

21. High Cliff State Park

Next to Wiconsin’s largest inland lake, this awe-inspiring landscape is also on the Niagara Escarpment, with rousing views of Lake Winnebago from the top of the limestone cliff.

As well as sheer walls of rock, there’s compelling history at High Cliff State Park, with nine important examples of conical and effigy mounds, made between 1,000 and 1,500 years ago by Siouan Native Americans.

More recent are the vestiges of a lime kiln and quarry, operating between the 1850s and 1950s.

Something I find fascinating about High Cliff is the huge diversity in plant life within a few hundred feet, from the summit to the slope and the lakeshore.

Atop the cliff there’s an observation tower, where you can see for miles across the lake and north over the Fox River valley.

22. Baraboo

This one-of-a-kind city is the jumping off point for Devil’s Lake State Park and the rest of the ecologically and geologically important Baraboo Range.

But I reckon Baraboo itself deserves plenty of your time, not least because of its beautiful preserved downtown, with scores of historically significant buildings and a lively square around the Sauk County Courthouse.

For decades, Baraboo was the winter home of one of the Ringling brothers, one of the largest circuses in the United States. Their headquarters, dating back to the 1880s, is on the National Register of Historic Places and open as a museum .

23. Brunet Island State Park

At the confluence of the Fisher and Chippewa rivers, this water-rich property is another of the best places in Wisconsin for a kayaking adventure.

That is down to the large network of lagoons and gentle channels at Brunet Island State Park. The namesake island, covering 169 acres, is the park’s most developed area, and you can rent all the equipment you need from outfitters in Cornell, a mile or two away.

As well as a choice of boat ramps you’ll find a swimming beach, almost 70 campsites, shelters with electricity, and connections to the 19.5-mile Old Abe Trail, and the epic Ice Age Trail, which weaves through Wisconsin for 1,200 miles.

24. Elkhart Lake

In the 19th century the stagecoach and then the Milwaukee and Northern Railroad brought guests to this refined lakeside resort village.

Well over a century later, Elkhart Lake remains an elevated destination, with a string of resorts and waterside parks around the eponymous 300-acre glacial lake.

One of my favorite sights in Wisconsin is Elkhart Lake on a sunny day, when the water has a beautiful shade of deep blue, caused by its natural springs.

You can linger by the shore, go fishing, take a paddling trip, and attend one of the many summer festivals that infuse the village with a sense of fun.

Elkhart Lake is also a byword for motorsports, with a legendary road course that opened in 1955 and continues to host more than 400 events each year.

Also see : Best Resorts in Wisconsin

25. Richard Bong State Recreation Area

Bringing an end to my list is more than 4,000 acres of grasslands and wetlands in Racine County towards the southeast of Wisconsin.

There’s an intriguing story behind the Richard Bong State Recreation Area as in the 1950s this patch of farmland was all set to become an Air Force base, but the plans were abandoned just before construction began.

There’s a gentle beauty to the low, rolling landscape, ready for hiking, camping (217 sites), fishing, paddling and birding.

An easy way to experience this place is on a paved service road, which will lead you past something unexpected—the Champion Tree, a sizable bald cypress relocated here from Louisiana in the mid-19th century.

Read Next :  20 Amazing Hidden Gems in Wisconsin

25 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin:

• Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
• Devil’s Lake State Park
• Door County
• Copper Falls State Park
• Wisconsin Dells
• Cave Point County Park
• Peninsula State Park
• Newport State Park
• Pattison State Park
• Perrot State Park
• Eagle River Chain of Lakes
• Lake Geneva
• Olbrich Botanical Gardens
• Cave of the Mounds
• Horicon Marsh
• High Cliff State Park
• Brunet Island State Park
• Elkhart Lake
• Richard Bong State Recreation Area

16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin

Sparsely populated with acres upon acres of farmland and forests, the midwestern U.S. state (which borders Minnesota, Michigan , Illinois, Iowa and Minnesota) doesn’t draw visitors like some more tourist-courting states. However, I think it’s blessed with a quiet and understated beauty.

Although it doesn’t always shout about its beauty spots, it’s home to many of them…

1. Amnicon Falls

Located in the South Range, Amnicon Falls State Park boasts four waterfalls. The river forks around an island, with two waterfalls on each side.

The park includes an old covered bridge in the lower falls area, which is a sight to see, and Snake Pit Falls, which many people use to go skinny-dipping. I would also recommend exploring the Now and Then Falls, which tends to change up a bit each time you visit.

My favorite highlights…

• Taking a hike along the nature trails and enjoying the beautiful views overlooking the river.
• Discovering the breathtaking waterfalls and being showered by the spray.
• Walking over the gorgeous bridge surrounded by scenic nature.

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2. Apostle Islands

Located in Bayfield, this area consists of 21 different islands in the northern part of the state. The area’s beauty includes sandstone caves and historic, exciting lighthouses.

Thanks to their colorful designs, the caves are much more eye-catching than you might think. Everything around this area of the state is phenomenal and unforgettable.

If you love nature, especially the water, you’ll love the Apostle Islands because they offer everything you’ll appreciate about nature and even more.

• Discovering the magic inside the ice and sea caves.
• Hiring a kayak to explore out on the waters and around the islands.
• Spending a unique night camping underneath the stars on one of the cliffside campgrounds.

3. Holy Hill

Located in Hubertus, Holy Hill is home to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary the Help of Christians. Still, you don’t have to be a Christian or religious person to enjoy its magnificent beauty.

Set among the hills of Wisconsin near Milwaukee, the state building is gorgeous and something you will never forget once you see it.

During the fall months, it is one of the most photographed places in the state. Holy Hill is also a great place to visit for people of all faiths because it offers the peace and tranquility we all desire! 

• Playing a round at Erin Hills Golf Course.
• Visiting the activities center to ensure you know all the fun things to do.
• Climbing 178 steps to witness some of the best picturesque views.

4. Dells Mill

This is an old five-story grist mill found in Augusta and a charming spot. It was built a mere 16 years after Wisconsin became a state in 1864, and at one point, farmers gathered to get all of their grinding done.

The building is still in good condition and is a definite eye-catcher, just like the nearby dam, which lends uniqueness to the area.

There is also a museum nearby, so when you visit Dells Mill, you’ll have much more to look at and enjoy than just the mill itself.

• Uncovering the history at the treasure that is Dells Mill and Museum.
• Checking out the outdoor activities located in Coon Fork Lake County Park.
• Cycling along the 21-mile round trip on Stage Coach Bicycle Route.

5. Door County

Located in northeast Wisconsin, Door County is breathtaking in more ways than one. It looks like the small towns of yesteryear, regardless of which season you visit, and it truly offers something for everyone.

The county covers Cave Point County Park in Sturgeon Bay, the famous Winding Road in Gills Rock, and Washington Island.

I personally think it’s a great way to spend the day if natural beauty is what you enjoy seeing when you’re touring different areas, partly because of the trees and unique buildings.

My highlights…

• Hiring a boat and go out on the lake for some time in the sunshine.
• Going on a wine tour to taste the delicious flavors of local grapes.
• Discovering Cana Island Lighthouse, located north of Baileys Harbor.

6. Mirror Lake

Located in Baraboo, you’ll understand this lake’s name as soon as you see it because the water is so spectacular that you can see a selection of trees and everything else surrounding it.

It is great for looking to look, as you can enjoy this lake and the surrounding area by boating, camping, and hiking, among other activities.

If you love the outdoors and the miracles of nature, this is a lake you won’t want to miss while visiting this great state! 

My personal highlights…

• Going canoeing across the picturesque lake while being surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
• Camping overnight by the creek at Skillet Creek Campground. 
• Hiking the scenic Ishnala and Echo Rock Trail Loop.

7. Pattison State Park

Wisconsin has dozens of state parks, but I think this one, located in the northwestern part of the state, especially deserves a place on this list! 

The biggest attraction there is Big Manitou Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the state of Wisconsin. Whether you want to picnic, go hiking, or relax and enjoy some of the area’s beauty, Pattison State Park is a real gem!

It’s located near the town of Superior and in my opinion offers something for everyone.

• Discovering the highest waterfall in Wisconsin and capturing an Insta-worthy shot.
• Relaxing along the beach after a stroll around the gorgeous lake.
• Grabbing some delicious food at Manitou Inn Bar and Grill.

8. Vilas County

Vilas County is in the north-central part of the state and contains iconic towns such as Phelps, Eagle River, and St. Germain.

Visiting these towns will bring you back to days gone by, but it isn’t just the houses and buildings that bring back nostalgic feelings.

Part of its charm also comes from the inland chain of freshwater lakes, one of the largest on the planet. If you love stepping back in time and enjoying unusual beauty and ambience, I suggest Vilas County is the area for you!

• Discovering all the exciting activities at Elmer’s Fun Park.
• Hiring an ATV and ride through the thrilling trails.
• Watching the sunset over the tranquil lake.

9. Wisconsin Dells

When people think of Wisconsin Dells, they usually think of the water park first, but there is much more to it than this.

Although the water park is spectacular, the deep, narrow gorges and unique rock formations along the Wisconsin River provide a way to calm down. Rent a canoe and enjoy its peaceful, quiet waters.

The area is gorgeous, of course, but its ambience is partly due to its tranquillity and peacefulness. If you genuinely want to get away from it all, I highly recommend this spot!

• Having fun at the theme park on their adrenaline-pumping rides.
• Cooling down at Noah’s Ark Water Park with slides and activities.
• Wandering around the area to discover the spectacular natural rock formations.

10. Pewits Nest State Natural Area

This deep gorge in Baraboo is nothing short of spectacular in its design, colors, and overall beauty. Tall, stately pine trees and majestic bluffs surround it.

There is also a gorgeous stream that runs right through it, so whether you want to go canoeing or picnic somewhere on the grounds, you can easily find something fun to do at Pewits Nest.

The area is also ancient because it was formed during the retreat of the very last glacier. 

My favourite highlights…

• Going for a hike along the East Bluff Trail leading to Devil’s Doorway.
• Having a try at bouldering for a unique experience.
• Discovering the hidden swimming hole and taking a dip on a hot day.

11. Driftless Area

Located in the southwestern part of the state, the stunning Driftless Area will challenge anyone who thinks Wisconsin is a flat state. This area is very hilly, and you won’t be able to take your eyes off the scenery around you when you’re there.

But be careful – the roads are beautiful but a bit winding, so you must be cautious as you drive.

Still, the topography in this part of the state is very diverse, and the longer you drive, the more fascinating things you’ll be able to see and experience.

• Taking an adrenaline-pumping ride through the mountain biking trails.
• Checking out the farmers market which was filled with unique and locally produced items.
• Hiking to the 500-foot-high viewpoint of Pikes Peak.

12. Dave’s Falls

Located in Amberg, Dave’s Falls is a great place to visit if you love waterfalls. However, unlike many other waterfalls, this one isn’t suitable for canoeing or kayaking because it has far too many large, bumpy rocks.

Instead, hike along the side of the Pike River and maybe stop for a picnic after a while.

You can thoroughly enjoy the falls regardless of where you are on the hiking trail, so just because you can’t get on the water while there doesn’t mean this area shouldn’t be on your bucket list! 

• Going on a fun whitewater rafting adventure down the river! 
• Getting Insta-worthy shots of the beautiful falls and unusual rock formations.
• Going on a Cave Point kayak tour.

13. Allen Centennial Gardens

Located smack dab in the middle of the University of Wisconsin at Madison, this is a teaching garden, but in my opinion, it is worth a memorable trip.

Built in the 1980s around a Queen Anne-style home, the gardens are stunning and boast some of the most beautiful plant life you’ve ever seen. They are immaculate and well-maintained, and if you enjoy old homes and lots of lush, healthy greenery, I suggest a visit!

Still an excellent teaching facility, this garden is a tourist attraction that in my opinion will leave a lasting impression.

• Strolling through the beautiful groomed and vibrant flowers, plants, and greenery.
• Learning about all of the garden’s history and plans.

14. Marinette County

Located in the northeastern part of the state, this county isn’t called the waterfall capital of Wisconsin for nothing. There are 14 exquisite waterfalls and some of the most gorgeous scenery you’ve ever seen.

You can also go camping or hiking there, but the clear rushing waters attract people the most. This is the perfect place to visit for anyone who loves hiking, camping, or enjoying nature at its finest.

• Visiting the Forgotten Fire Winery for a lovely afternoon of wine tasting.
• Checking out the super cute Julie Huebner Pottery & Art Studio.
• Taking a trip to the tranquil Green Island, filled with lush trees.

15. National Ice Age Scenic Trail

This trail is fantastic and runs throughout many areas in the state. It is 1,000 miles long and the perfect footpath, and it is never that far from you, regardless of where you live.

If viewing Wisconsin’s glacial landscapes is what you want to do, this is the trail you want to be on. Best of all, most of it is comfortable to hike on even if you’re wearing tennis shoes, but if you’re a serious hiker, you might want to bring a comfortable pair of hiking boots instead just to be safe.

• Exploring the e-biking trails, which are just superb here!
• Being amazed by the breathtaking nature surrounding the trails.

16. Big Bay State Park

Founded in the 1960s, this majestic attraction is the largest of the Apostle Islands archipelago, where visitors can witness scenic sandstone bluffs.

Big Bay State Park has a 4-mile shoreline of Lake Superior and a 1-mile esplanade featuring golden sandy beaches. It also has over nine hiking trails and a spacious family campground.

Furthermore, visitors can benefit from picnic areas with tables, drinking water, toilets, and more! The park is open year-round and accessible to pedestrians and cyclists. I would recommend a visit, especially if you’re a nature lover!

My persoal highlights…

• Packing a picnic and stopping for lunch surrounded by gorgeous scenery.
• Going swimming in the fresh waters of the lake.
• Cycling and exploring the trails.

Gary Nunn - Videographer, photographer and writer Gary is an award winning full time professional photographer and videographer with too much wanderlust for his own good. Fueled by strong coffee, you’ll often find him wandering well off hiking trails in search of interesting photographic subjects or scenery to video. Self taught and with the use of pioneering digital techniques, he quickly built up a strong client base and has worked with many prestigious organizations, including GQ, BBC, London Fashion Week, Grazia, Sky, Metro, Vogue Italia. He specializing in evocative images of people, places and cinematic videography and his goal is to make the viewer look twice and engage. As well as a penchant for good design, travel, starting up new businesses, the ketogenic diet and Hungarian Vizslas, he also has a huge affection for Chicago, Bucharest, Scandinavia, Croatia and absolutely everywhere in Italy. Find Gary on Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube or his Website . Hotel Reviewing Experience – Asked by many tourist boards and many high-profile travel brands to formally review hotels including Germany Tourist Board , Expedia , Eviivo , Visit Morocco , and Wild in Sight Safaris .   Also travelled around the world scouting out and reviewing all the most unique hotels in the world, check out our Instagram page for photos . Listed as a top UK travel journalist .

2 thoughts on “16 Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Wisconsin”

In love with Wisconsin…Hoping to visit this beautiful place some day. Thank you for sharing the article

Hi Great Post, I enjoyed reading this article. These are some really amazing places to visit in Wisconsin. I am in love with all these beautiful photographs. Thanks for sharing these. Looking forward to reading more of these 🙂

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• Destinations

25 Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin

Last Updated By VI on May 14, 2024 in Things to Do in Wisconsin & Places to Visit , Map

Lake Geneva

Spring green, wisconsin.

• Complete List & Map

Milwaukee is full of interesting and educational attractions to keep you busy every hour of the day. You can start off by combining fun and education on a visit to the Milwaukee Public Museum, Discovery World and the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum. Art lovers can feast their eyes on the wonderful collections at the Milwaukee Art Museum, MOWA (Museum of Wisconsin Art), and the expansive 40-acre Lynden Sculpture Garden before catching a Broadway show at the Marcus Center for the Performing Arts or attending the Milwaukee Ballet or the Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike the Lakefront Trail, go paddling with Milwaukee Kayak Company or simply enjoy Bradford Beach. Anyone interested in motorbikes will not want to miss a tour of the Harley Davidson Museum.

The majestic State Capitol building seems like a fitting place to start your visit to Madison , the capital of Wisconsin. The imposing granite structure is boldly situated between two lakes and daily guided tours are available. There is a lengthy list of city attractions you can explore including the State Historical Museum, the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chazen Museum of Art and the hands-on Madison Children’s Museum. The performing arts are thriving in Madison and you can get your fill at the Bartell Theatre or Wisconsin Union Theatre, among others. Other interesting activities to try include campus tours of the University of Wisconsin , visiting Olbrich Botanical Gardens, boating and paddling on the five lakes around the city and biking the extensive network of cycling trails. More things to do in Madison

The beautiful lake-side town of Lake Geneva ticks all the boxes when it comes to finding an idyllic year-round vacation destination in southern Wisconsin. Water sport enthusiasts can enjoy beaches, paddle-boarding, jet-skiing and parasailing, while those who like to keep their feet dry can go on a cruise to enjoy the beauty of the lake. Back on land you can explore miles of hiking and biking trails including the scenic Shore Path, try zip-lining or a hot-air balloon trip, and tour historic Black Point Estate and Gardens. The historic Downtown is the place to go for shopping and dining, and when the winter snows arrive you can go skiing, snowshoeing, snowboarding, ice skating and sledding before treating yourself to a pamper session at one of the many day spas.

The town of Spring Green is located along the banks of the Wisconsin River offering visitors great potential for outdoor activities in the lovely River Valley. The town is best known as the site of Taliesin, the home of prominent architect Frank Lloyd Wright from 1911 to 1959. Today you can tour the house, the studio and theater or see all the highlights of the estate – essential viewing for all architecture fans. At the opposite end of the architecture scale you should also visit the House on a Rock which was the brainchild of recluse Alex Jordan Jr., who turned his unusual home into a bizarre museum of oddities. Spring Green is home to a thriving arts community and there are many galleries and studios to visit before rounding off your day with a performance at the famous American Players Theatre or the White Church Theatre Project. More things to do in Spring Green

Green Bay is the oldest town in Wisconsin, dating back to the 1600’s, and is famously home to the Green Bay Packers NFL team, who you can see in action at the Lambeau Field. A narrated trolley tour of the city is a great way for you to get your bearings and learn a little local history, or you could walk, bike or Segway the Historic Broadway District and the Packers Heritage Trail tour paths. Families can have hours of fun at the Bay Beach Amusement Park, the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary and the NEW Zoo. Bikers can try the 25-mile Fox River State Recreational Trail. Round off your busy day with a show at the historic downtown Meyer Theatre.

La Crosse, Wisconsin

La Crosse is situated along the western border of Wisconsin, hugging the east bank of the Mississippi River, and the close proximity of three rivers make it an ideal playground for water-sport enthusiasts who can go fishing, paddling, kayaking or cruising. Visitors who prefer to stay on land will find more than 10 miles of great hiking and biking trails in Hixon Forest and Green Coulee, and an amazing diversity of wildlife in the surrounding wetlands. You can try for that hole-in-one at one of six golf courses or enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing in winter. You can shop for gifts at wonderful little shops and galleries in the Historic Downtown, visit several breweries and wineries or attend one of the regular festivals such as Oktoberfest, Irishfest, Riverfest or Airfest.

Kenosha is situated on the south-western shore of Lake Michigan and offers a long list of entertaining attractions for all ages. If you love history and museums you can head to the Dinosaur Discovery Museum, the Civil War Museum, the Kenosha History Center and the Kenosha Public Museum, while lighthouse enthusiasts can visit the Pierhead Lighthouse and the Southport Light Station Museum. For a break from history you can hop aboard the Electric Streetcar Circulator for a two-mile loop along the Lake Michigan shoreline or visit the Kenosha Harbor Market. Dedicated shoppers can grab a bargain at Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets, while water-sport enthusiasts can go boating, sailing or fishing and there are miles of biking trails for cyclists.

Uncovering the vibrant arts and culture side of Eau Claire in western Wisconsin will definitely be one of the highlights of your visit. You can celebrate the visual arts at the UWEC Foster Art Gallery, go on the Sculpture Tour or release your inner artist (and drink some wine) at Cheers Pablo’s Paint and Sip Classes. To enjoy the performing arts you can visit the State Theatre or watch stand-up comedy at The Plus. You can hike or bike several scenic trails or enjoy snow-shoeing and snowmobiling trails in winter.

More ideas: Things to do in Chippewa Falls

The performing arts are very well represented in Wausau and you can enjoy everything from Broadway shows to dance extravaganzas. Outdoors the fun never stops and you can go hiking and biking along many miles of trails. In winter the emphasis switches to downhill and cross-country skiing, snow shoeing and snowmobiles.

Oshkosh is widely known as Wisconsin’s Event City and has an impressive list of activities to keep visitors on the go all day long. One of the highlights of any visit is the EAA AirVenture Museum where you can see a wonderful collection of vintage aircraft, visit four movie theaters and enjoy the hands-on KidzVenture Gallery. The Oshkosh Public Museum and the Paine Art Center and Gardens are other popular attractions and in Downtown Oshkosh you can stroll or cycle along the scenic River Walk and visit some unusual shops and galleries. Outdoor enthusiasts will be pleased to find a variety of hiking and biking trails, over 200 miles of snowmobile trails and opportunities to go boating, fishing and kayaking on Lake Winnebago.

Minooka Park has a popular beach, sled hill, and archery range. Bear Den Zoo & Petting Farm is a family-friendly petting farm and exotic wildlife zoo with animals that include black bears and lemurs.

Devil's Lake State Park

Back on land you can explore 29 miles of hiking trails or head into the backcountry. Other activities include visiting the Nature Center, biking, rock climbing, swimming, scuba diving and fishing.

Cave Point County Park

Sunsets are particularly impressive and photographers will have a marvelous time. Adventurous visitors can go on a guided kayak tour with Door County Kayak Tours to see and explore the caves from the water.

Grandad Bluff Park

You can bring a picnic and go hiking along some of the bluff-side hiking trails that are accessed from the parking area. If you are in La Crosse on New Year’s Eve you will be able to watch the annual Skyrocker’s Fireworks Show that takes place on the bluff.

Grand Rapids

Located in the heart of cranberry country, visiting a cranberry farm such as Rubi Reds is a must. Wisconsin Dairy State Cheese showcases Wisconsin’s rich dairy heritage by offering observation windows where visitors can watch a cheese maker doing his magic or stock up on more than 200 kinds of cheese. Located in an elegant colonial home on the banks of the Wisconsin River, the Alexander House is a combination art gallery and historical museum. Grand Rapids is also known for two teams that produce spectacular waterski shows every week between Memorial and Labor Day.

The lake-side city of Racine is picturesquely situated at the mouth of the Root River along the shores of Lake Michigan, offering visitors a large variety of water-related recreational opportunities. You have several great options for fishing, while canoeing, kayaking and padding along The Root are all popular activities. Lake Michigan offers excellent boating and North Beach is one of the most popular lake shore beaches in the country. Architecture fans should not miss touring the SC Johnson headquarters where you can admire examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work, while art enthusiasts will be blown away by the Racine Art Museum. Other attractions you can visit include the Wind Point Lighthouse and Racine Zoo.

Interstate State Park

In summer you can enjoy swimming, non-motorized boating, canoeing and kayaking and In winter you can have fun on over five miles of recreational trails suitable for cross-country skiing and snow shoeing.

High Cliff State Park

Land-based activities you can try include biking, horse-back riding (there are 8.5 miles of bridle paths), archery-only hunting (during the hunting season) and camping . In winter you can go skiing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or have fun on a three-mile snowmobile trail.

Schoolhouse Beach

The beach is great for sun-tanning (perhaps not quite as comfortable as a sand beach – just bring a mattress) and there is a wooded area where you can picnic or have a barbecue. More unique places to visit

Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway

You can fish and explore at your own pace by boat, paddle your canoe or kayak (rentals available) or join a ranger-led program that will introduce you to the fauna and flora of the area. There are seven river-side hiking trails (which can be used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter) and if you undertake a multi-day hiking or kayaking adventure you can camp alongside the river each night.

Ice Age National Scenic Trail

There are campsites along all sections of the trail and there are hundreds of trailhead and access points where you can join the trail. Most of the trail is open for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in winter and certain sections are suitable for biking and snowmobiling.

Hayward Lake

More ideas: WI wedding venues

Geneva Lake Shore Path

There are several public access points dotted around the circumference of the lake.

Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Back on land you can enjoy hiking over 50 miles of trails, camping (18 of the islands have campsites) or going on day trips to neighboring islands. More info

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• 4. Spring Green, Wisconsin
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• 13. Devil's Lake State Park
• 14. Cave Point County Park
• 15. Grandad Bluff Park
• 16. Grand Rapids
• 18. Interstate State Park
• 19. High Cliff State Park
• 20. Schoolhouse Beach
• 21. Saint Croix National Scenic Riverway
• 22. Ice Age National Scenic Trail
• 23. Hayward Lake
• 24. Geneva Lake Shore Path
• 25. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

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Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin For Families

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Plan your next vacation with kids to one of these best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! Whether you’re looking for a family day trip or a weekend getaway, there’s something to please everyone in this large Midwestern state. Of course, when visiting Wisconsin with your kids, there’s a lot of planning to do. On this list, we’ve put together the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families, including charming towns, water parks, state parks, and more adventures. In case you need hotel suggestions, we’ve also included where to stay in Wisconsin with kids. Keep reading for our list of the Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin For Families! 

Best Charming Towns & Cities to Visit in Wisconsin for Families

Wisconsin is home to some of the most charming towns in the United States for families! Whether you’re looking for laidback fun outside or indoor activities, stay tuned for our suggestions on the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families!  Certainly, these cities boast some of the most fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids ! If you want to learn all about Wisconsin for kids , getting to know these cities is a great start.

Eau Claire is a quaint Wisconsin city with plenty of opportunities for adventure. Outdoorsy families can fish, hike, and enjoy a small sandy beach at Big Falls County Park (expect a small entrance fee). Or, for an urban experience, explore the historic downtown and stroll along the river in Phoenix Park . If you’re visiting in the summer, check out the schedule for local shoes and the weekly farmer’s market.

Then, families with young children can spend a day indoors at the Children’s Museum of Eau Claire , one of the best children’s museums in Wisconsin . Older kids will also appreciate the artifacts at the Chippewa Valley Museum. For a dose of culture, don’t miss a family-friendly production at the Eau Claire Children’s Theatre or the Pablo Center at the Confluence ! This is surely one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families!

RELATED : 15+ Best Things To Do in Eau Claire, Wisconsin With Kids

Please note : Swimming at Big Falls County Park is best for tweens and teens who can swim on their own. This area is known for strong currents, especially when the water is high. There are no lifeguards on duty.

La Crosse is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families. Located along the Mississippi River, families flock to this area during the summer for its abundance of outdoor activities. One popular excursion is paddling, kayaking, and canoeing on the Mississippi River. Families can also go hiking at Grandad Bluff Park , the Mathy Tract – Mississippi Valley Conservancy , or head north to Perrot State Park for incredible views.

On a rainy day, visit the Children’s Museum of La Crosse , featuring exhibits on fire trucks, rivers and bridges, and more. Plus, it’s one of the best children’s museums in Wisconsin ! End your stay by getting the full Wisconsin experience at Digger’s Sting Restaurant , a local supper club. Finally, La Crosse is just across the river from Minnesota (30 minutes from Winona, and about 2.5 hours from Minneapolis), making it a great location for families interested in a two-state Midwest trip.

Bayfield & the Apostle Islands

Take your next Wisconsin family vacation to Bayfield, a small city located on Lake Superior. As an entry point to the Apostle Islands , this coastal destination is sure to charm all members of your family, whether you want to enjoy a city or an island vibe. Stay on the mainland or head to Madeline Island by ferry to hike, bike, kayak, swim, and canoe. In downtown Bayfield, see some of the largest collections of Victorian homes in the Midwest or visit the Bayfield Maritime Museum . Depending on the season, head to Blue Vista Farm to go fruit picking and see what farm life is like. Don’t miss the freshest fish Bayfield has to offer at The Copper Trout ! 

Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families , especially during the summer. Famous for its lakeside location, Victorian architecture, and beautiful scenery, it features a cute downtown area with award-winning restaurants, plus luxury accommodations. There are also many things to do in Lake Geneva with kids, including boating, fishing, or swimming. Families can choose from four beaches and options for boating of all sorts, including the Lake Geneva Cruise Line .

You can also appreciate the natural beauty on the Geneva Lake Shore Path , which is a 26-miles-long with shorter a segment starting at Library Park . See animals on the lake, visit Safari Lake Geneva , or enjoy a show at Dancing Horses Theatre . Older kids will also love the chance to soar through the trees with Lake Geneva Ziplines & Adventures .

Home to museums, scenic parks, and other fun attractions for kids, Madison is a wonderful city for all ages. Animal and nature lovers can visit Henry Villas Zoo , the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, Vilas Park , and the UW-Madison Arboretum . Or, walk down State Street , a half-mile-long pedestrian mall, see a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts , and visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market, held from April to November on Saturday mornings on Capitol Square.

Young children will adore exploring the Madison Children’s Museum , one of the best children’s museums in Wisconsin . Plus, there are splash pads located across the city for hot summer days. Alternatively, older kids will enjoy visiting the Wisconsin Historical Museum or the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art . For dinner, Memorial Union Terrace has incredible views over the lake. Madison also has family-friendly breweries too, many offering family game nights and live music. Capital Brewing and Wisconsin Brewing Company are two great options. Lastly, don’t forget the campus-made ice cream at Babcock Hall Dairy Store!

Port Washington

Port Washington is the perfect location for kids who love the water. Just north of Milwaukee, this charming Wisconsin town is located on Lake Michigan, featuring multiple miles of shoreline at Port Washington South Beach Park. Families could easily spend hours swimming, fishing, and boating, whether at the beach or on the lake. Charter a salmon or trout fishing adventure with Nicky Boy Charters or fish at Harrington Beach State Park . Other outdoor adventures include hiking along the bluffs at Lion’s Den Gorge Nature Preserve . Walk through the historic downtown or visit the Possibility Playground . Looking for an indoor activity in Port Washington?

Door County

Door County is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families. Charming towns dot the western coast, a few popular ones include Egg Harbor, Sister Bay, and Gibraltar. From boat tours to amazing wildlife and gorgeous forest hikes, there’s so much to see! Take the ferry to Washington Island , home to lavender fields. Here, spend an afternoon at Schoolhouse Beach Park , or check out the lighthouses. Pottawatomie Lighthouse, the oldest on the peninsula, is in Rock Island State Park. In Sturgeon Bay , kids will love the interactive exhibits at the Door County Maritime Museum . Door County is also known as the Cherry Capital. Make sure you pick some at local farms from mid-July through mid-August! 

Looking for more things to do in Door County, Wisconsin with kids? Families can also go kayaking or diving among the shipwrecks for an unforgettable experience. Then, Cave Point County Park and Ridges Sanctuary offer great locations for family hiking. Kids will also delight in taking the tractor ride to Cana Island Lighthouse . Since water flows over the causeway, you actually have to take a hayride through the water to get there! If you’re into camping, Door County is also a popular destination. Families can even rent a cabin to feel like they’re camping with extra luxuries! No wonder Door County is a top pick for families seeking the most fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids !

Milwaukee is a wonderful place to spend the weekend with kids! Located on the western shore of Lake Michigan, it’s home to countless cultural attractions, historical landmarks, and outdoor things to do. Motorcycle lovers can’t miss a trip to the Harley-Davidson Museum, which traces over 100 years of history.

Plus, Milwaukee is full of other museums to appeal to all ages, including the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum , Discovery World , the Milwaukee Public Museum, and The Mitchell Park Horticulture Conservatory . Families can even catch a show at First Stage Children’s Theater or explore Milwaukee’s downtown area, featuring restaurants, interesting architecture, and more. Of course, parents can’t visit Milwaukee without experiencing a classic German brewery, like the kid-friendly Sprecher Brewery (the tour features both craft beer and craft soda).

Sheboygan  

From breathtaking views of Lake Michigan to sandy beaches, top-notch sailing, and other family-friendly activities, Sheboygan is surely a great destination to visit in Wisconsin with kids. On a sunny day, enjoy a beautiful white sand shoreline at both beaches in town, Deland Park and King Park. A few miles south of the city, you’ll also find Kohler Andrae State Park. Featuring a campground, nature trails, and 2.5 miles of sandy beach, this hidden gem is also very scenic. Kids who want a break from the beach can explore the Bookworm Gardens, ​​a whimsical botanical garden inspired by popular children’s books. There’s also the Above and Beyond Children’s Museum, plus an indoor water park at Blue Harbor Resort!

Best Outdoor Adventures in Wisconsin for Families

Looking for an outdoor adventure in Wisconsin for families? From lakeside retreats to scenic drives through the forest, there’s so much to discover here. In fact, hiking, kayaking, and fishing are among the top fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids . Keep reading for the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! 

RELATED : 13 Fun Places To Rent Lake Houses & Cabins in Wisconsin For A Family Getaway

Wazee Lake Recreation Area

Enjoy the deepest inland lake in Wisconsin at the Wazee Lake Recreation Area in Jackson County. Featuring access to Wazee Lake, with a private swimming area with a sandy beach, it’s a popular spot for scuba diving and fishing due to its striking clear waters. The calm turquoise waters at the beach are also perfect for families visiting Wisconsin with toddlers or younger children, since they’re shallow and great for swimming. To have fun on the lake, there’s a boat launch and also camping available. Seasonal concessions are available as well, and there’s a playground when kids want a break from the water. No wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families!

Madeline Island/The Apostle Islands

Since we already mentioned Bayfield earlier in this list of best places to visit in Wisconsin for kids , Madeline Island is next. Located on Lake Superior, this Wisconsin island is the largest of the 22 Apostle Islands, accessible by a ferry from Bayfield. It’s also a popular destination for hiking, biking, fishing, kayaking, swimming, and canoeing! Whether you want to stay in a cozy cabin or camp, most accommodations overlook Lake Superior with convenient access to the area’s best attractions. For an indoor activity, visit the Madeline Island Museum to enjoy interactive exhibits highlighting the island’s history. Kids can also watch the weavers work in the loom at Woods Hall and maybe even try it for themselves! 

Need more fun on the water? Look no further than these Best Lakes in the Midwest for Families ! 

Great River Road

Following the Mississippi River, the Great River Road is a scenic drive spanning 250 miles in Wisconsin, featuring lush forests, beautiful lakes, and several family-friendly towns. You can drive the whole way to take in the history, or select a few to explore. For outdoorsy families, there’s tons of hiking, biking, and shopping in La Crosse , Prescott , and Stockholm . Families visiting La Crosse can appreciate the amazing views from Grandad Bluff, as you drive on Bliss Road to ascend to the bluff. Animal lovers will appreciate a visit to the National Eagle Center or Perrot State Park . In Stockholm , visit the Maiden Rock Winery & Cidery to enjoy tastings while kids play in the hay or the corn maze! 

Cave of the Mounds

Children and adults alike will be impressed by the Cave of the Mounds , one of the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids. Located near Blue Mounds, this natural limestone cave system is one of the longest-known undeveloped caves in the Midwest. Kids will love exploring the underground caves and learning more about their history on a go-at-your-own-pace tour , where a guide will lead you through the colorful crystal formations. (Bring a sweater, since the caves are around 50 degrees.) Along the way, you’ll see stalactites, stalagmites, underground lakes, and even ancient fossils from the Ice Age!

Once you’re done exploring below ground, head above ground to spot some of the colorful birds that live on the property. It’s no wonder families select this as one of the top fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids .

Witches Gulch

Witches Gulch is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families. Located in Wisconsin Dells, this narrow slot canyon features hidden whirlpools, mysterious passageways, and more spooky ways to be one with nature on a gorgeous hike. Since it’s only accessible on a boat tour, we suggest booking the Upper Dells Tour , which provides transportation to and from the canyon, plus a bit of background information. Once you reach Witches Gulch, you’ll be able to walk through the winding boardwalk with ease as you pass through rock formations and get up close to the sandstone banks. Once you reach the end of the boardwalk, you’ll come upon a concession stand if you want a snack. 

Best ​​Wisconsin State Parks for Families

Visiting a state park is a must during a Wisconsin family vacation. Certainly, they are some of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families ! Featuring beautiful cascading waterfalls, exotic wildlife, and even recreational activities like hiking, these following state parks rank as the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids. Stay tuned to learn all about Wisconsin for kids ! 

Devil’s Lake State Park

Devil’s Lake State Park is a beautiful place to explore as a family. Located in central Wisconsin, it features a variety of hiking trails, rock formations, a large lake, and various plant species. It’s one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! Start at the Nature Center , then find boat rentals located at the north and south ends of the lake. When kids want to cool off from the sun, there are also two swimming beaches , one on each end. Ready for fun on dry land? Take a guided hike along Devil’s Lake’s western shore, rent fishing poles, or even try a scavenger hunt! Devil’s Lake State Park is also a popular camping area for families. 

For more scenic hikes, check out this list of 10 Exciting Midwest State Parks For Families !  

Peninsula State Park

Peninsula State Park is one of the most popular parks in Wisconsin for families to explore. Located near Sturgeon Bay, it’s known for its beautiful shoreline that extends out to Lake Michigan, with activities like biking, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. First, families can relax on Nicolet Beach, where you can also rent kayaks and paddleboards. In fact, from here kids can kayak to Horseshoe Island, known for its distinct shape! Parents will love the 18-hole golf course or relaxing by the ocean with a drink. When you want to spend time as a family with some quality entertainment, visit the Northern Sky Theater , which puts on a variety of kid-friendly performances year-round. 

Amnicon Falls State Park

Looking for an adventure near Lake Superior? Visit Amnicon Falls State Park, one of the best things to do with kids in Wisconsin! This natural area showcases the beauty of the cascading waterfalls located along the Amnicon River. Visitors can see the falls from a covered footbridge or on the 2 miles of trails by the river, leading you through a forest with huge towering trees. Along the gradually sloping path, you’ll pass multiple viewpoints on your way to the falls, eventually coming upon an incredible view. Aside from hiking, the park is also a popular place for camping, picnicking, and learning more about the Douglas Fault (the geological formation that formed the falls). 

Brunet Island State Park

Seeing Brunet Island State Park is one of the best things to do in northwestern Wisconsin with kids. Located outside of Eau Claire on the Chippewa and Fisher Rivers, it’s the ideal destination for families to enjoy the natural beauty and recreational activities. There are more than 8 miles of hiking trails in this scenic park, including the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, where kids can feel like they’re going back in time. A few fun biking trails include the Pine Trail, Spruce Trail, and the Timber Trail. Families can also go fishing, try swimming in the beach area, or rent kayaks and canoes. For a real rugged adventure, set up camp and stay overnight! 

Copper Falls State Park

Copper Falls State Park is known as one of Wisconsin’s most scenic parks. Located in northeastern Wisconsin, in the heart of the state’s prime fishing country, it features stunning waterfalls, deep gorges, and miles of forest. Families can enjoy all sorts of activities here, including hiking, biking, fishing, and canoeing. At Loon Lake, kids can play on the 300-foot sand beach or rent kayaks and paddleboards to explore. (Swimming is allowed, but be aware there are no lifeguards on duty.) There’s also a boat launch. To see the falls from dry land, take the Doughboys Nature Trail , which follows the Bad River and Tyler Forks. No wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! 

Willow River State Park

With spectacular views of Willow Falls, Willow Gorge, and miles of scenic hiking, families should definitely take their next summer vacation to Willow River State Park . Located on 2,800 acres of rolling countryside in northwest Wisconsin, it’s surely one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! Enjoy water activities on Little Falls Lake, where kids can fish, swim, or paddle. There’s also a beach area to relax. Then, get an incredible view of the falls from a scenic hike like the Burkhardt Trail, which winds along the river bottom. The Hidden Ponds Nature Trail takes hikers through oak forest and wetlands, plus it’s a bit shorter. Want to bike? Cruise down the Little Falls Trail! 

Best Animal Encounters in Wisconsin for Families

Who doesn’t love an animal encounter? Learning about local wildlife is one of the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids . If your kids want to get up close to giraffes, deer, bison, and other fun wildlife, check out one of these best places to visit in Wisconsin for families ! 

Henry Villas Zoo

Animal lovers flock to the Henry Villas Zoo ! Located in downtown Madison, it’s one of few free zoos in North America, featuring big cats, reptiles, and more fascinating creatures. Kids will love walking around different exhibits like the Arctic Passage , where you can see polar bears or harbor seals, and the Primate House, filled with monkeys, lemurs, and more. Plus, don’t forget about more exotic animals like meerkats, red pandas, and flamingos at the Children’s Zoo! In the Tropical Forest Aviary, kids can even get up close to macaws, motmots, and more. On certain weekends of the year, the zoo also offers behind-the-scenes experiences, like safari tours or animal feedings. Check the calendar for more information. 

Wildwood Wildlife Park and Safari

Nothing says family fun quite like a visit to Wildwood Wildlife Park and Safari! Located in Minocqua, this dynamic complex houses a zoo, a safari park, and even a fishing pond. That means there are plenty of ways to keep entertained, starting with the Giraffe Serengeti, where kids can feed some of the tallest animals in the world. Bird lovers will appreciate the Parakeet Encounter, where the “budgies” will land on their shoulder or hand to say hi. Kids can also go boating on the small lake to spot more animals or take a ride on the kiddie train. Don’t forget about the Safari Tram Ride, which runs through the property to see emus, ostriches, and other unique animals roaming! 

Milwaukee County Zoo

The Milwaukee County Zoo is a fantastic place to visit with kids. Spread across almost 200 acres, this sprawling educational facility is home to almost 2,000 animals. Major exhibits include Big Cat Country, featuring red pandas, and Primates of the World , where kids can meet the biggest monkeys in existence, the mandrills. Of course, there’s also a Penguin Exhibit, a North America section with grizzly bears, and so much more.

Plus, with daily seal and sea lion feedings, kids can get up close with the animals and also take a picture! Aside from animal encounters, the zoo also has fun rides for children, like a carousel and a safari train. Remember to check the calendar for zoo special events. With so much to offer, you’ll quickly see why families rank this as one of the most fun things to do in Wisconsin with kids.

If you’re visiting Wisconsin in the fall, consult our list of 12 Best Places to See Fall Colors in the Midwest for Families ! 

Wisconsin Deer Park

Traveling through Wisconsin in search of the best things to do? Take your kids to the Wisconsin Deer Park! Located in Wisconsin Dells, this 40-acre petting zoo features animals like deer, elk, and bison. Here, kids can feed the deer by hand, pet them, and take photos. Families will have plenty of other chances to see wildlife along the paved trails on the property, perfect for exploring at your own pace. There’s also a petting zoo for kids to enjoy. Plus, not only does the park provide a chance to see amazing creatures, but it also offers educational opportunities through programs, camps, and other events. No wonder this is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families! 

Shalom Wildlife Zoo

The Shalom Wildlife Zoo is the place to go for an epic animal adventure. Home to over 750 animals across 100 acres, this educational center in West Bend isn’t your average zoo. Four miles of gravel road connect each exhibit, from bobcats to bison, coyotes, and cougars to zebras, tigers, and grizzly bears. Certainly, kids will adore getting to see each of these amazing creatures!

Families can feel free to walk through the whole thing (bring comfortable shoes!) or rent a golf cart, available from April to November. Occasionally, the zoo also hosts events where you can drive your own car. Either way, you’ll be able to purchase food at the entrance, which you can use as you explore. If you’re looking for a family activity that’s less active, there’s also a petting zoo and more!

Once you’ve seen the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families, explore more animal adventures at these Best Zoos in the Midwest For Families ! 

Best Water Parks in Wisconsin for Families

Still looking for some of the best things to do with kids in Wisconsin ? There’s no better way to cool down on a hot day than with a visit to a water park. Luckily, whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor options, Wisconsin has a ton. Certainly, visiting one of these water parks is among the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids ! Keep reading to learn more! 

Noah’s Ark Waterpark

A family vacation to Wisconsin would be incomplete without a visit to Noah’s Ark Waterpark , the largest water park in the United States! Located in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, this sprawling park features water slides, splash zones, and more fun for all ages. Adventurous kids will love thrilling attractions like the Black Anaconda , America’s most thrilling water coaster, while little ones relax on the lazy river. Plus, there’s also the Big Kahuna Wave Pool and a Safari Jungle Area where kids can surf. When you’re hungry, there are several restaurants on the property, including desserts like Dippin Dots and funnel cake! 

Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park

For the ultimate adventure the whole family can enjoy, visit Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park! Located in Wisconsin Dells, this expansive fun park features an indoor and outdoor water park, an indoor and outdoor theme park, plus a hotel. Kids can spend a rainy day at the indoor water park , which features tube slides, wave pools, and more. Then, head to the indoor theme park to enjoy bumper cars, teacups, and other thrilling rides. From May through September, families also have access to the outdoor water park , featuring incredible attractions like The Lost City Of Atlantis! At the outdoor theme park , ride thrilling coasters like the Hades 360. Plus, coming soon in 2022 is a giant Medusa Slide Wheel! 

More Waterparks in Wisconsin for Families

Looking for more water parks in Wisconsin for families? You’ll find lots of options in Wisconsin Dells, like the Klondike Kavern Water Park at the Wilderness Resort. From lazy rivers to fast slides, it truly has it all! Some other great water parks in Wisconsin include the Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark , Kalahari Resort, and Great Wolf Lodge . If you’re traveling to Wisconsin from Minneapolis, you can also visit the Metropolis Resort & Conference Center in Eau Claire, which features an indoor water park and even a trampoline park! 

Searching for more Midwest water parks for families? Check out these Exciting Midwest Hotels With Indoor Water Parks For Families (By State) ! 

Best Amusement Park in Wisconsin for Families

Kids will love all the thrilling rides at the best amusement park in Wisconsin for families. Not only is this one of the best things to do with kids in Wisconsin , but parents will love it too! Keep reading to plan your perfect vacation to the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families!

Bay Beach Amusement Park

Bay Beach Amusement Park is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families. Located in Green Bay, it’s located near the Fox River, featuring a variety of rides the whole family can enjoy. There are a variety of kiddie rides for younger kids, like race cars, boats, and more. Then, you’ll also find rides families can experience together, from the giant slide to the tilt-a-whirl, merry-go-round, and bumper cars. Have teens in your family that are in the mood for a thrilling experience? Check out the Sea Dragon or the Zippin Pippin! Various concessions are also available on-site. 

Bay Beach Amusement Park , one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families , is only open seasonally between May and September, check the calendar before planning to go. 

Best Resorts in Wisconsin for a Family Getaway

Once you’ve discovered the best places to visit in Wisconsin for families, you’ll need somewhere to stay. For a rustic retreat in northern Wisconsin, check out Stout’s Island Lodge, featuring chic lodge rooms or cozy cabins. Or, enjoy the beautiful shores of Delavan Lake at the historic Lake Lawn Resort , located near Lake Geneva. For something a little more upscale, try the Grand Geneva Resort and Spa or The Abbey Resort . Families looking for a secluded stay near the wilderness will love Northernaire Resort , located in Three Lakes at the edge of the Nicolet National Forest. To stay in the Solan Springs area, look no further than the St. Croix Inn , a beautiful resort overlooking Upper Saint Croix Lake. 

Look for top-rated homestays in Wisconsin here through Vrbo!

Happy Travels!

We hope you found this list of the Best Places To Visit In Wisconsin For Families helpful for planning your own adventures! Whether you are looking for some of the best things to do in Wisconsin with kids , family resorts in Wisconsin, or the best waterparks in Wisconsin for families, we know this list has you covered! Certainly, if you were hoping to learn all about Wisconsin for kids , you did! Between history, recreational activities, and scenic views, this Midwest destination is fantastic for all ages. Enjoy Wisconsin with your kids! 

*This post may contain affiliate links that may earn us a small commission, at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links in no way inform the hotels, sights, products, or other recommendations included in our articles. All opinions and recommendations expressed here are compiled from submissions submitted by the generous members of our Families Who Love To Travel community.

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20 Best Things To Do in Milwaukee

Updated Sep. 12, 2022

In Milwaukee, you'll find your usual assortment of art museums ( Milwaukee Art Museum ), historic homes ( Pabst Mansion ) and sports venues ( American Family Field ). You'll also find interesting areas to meander through like the

• All Things To Do

Harley-Davidson Museum Harley-Davidson Museum

Whether you're a die-hard biker or someone who just happens to be in the area, this is the destination for a visual history of the iconic American brand. Spread across 20 acres of prime Milwaukee riverfront, the Harley-Davidson Museum continuously wows travelers with its permanent exhibits and rotating special exhibits that tell the story of the company's people, products, culture and history. Among the artifacts on display are a recovered motorcycle from the 2011 Japanese tsunami and a gallery that features famous custom bikes created for the likes of Elvis Presley and stunt rider Alfonso Sotomayor Canales. There are also display walls dedicated to the brand's engines and tanks.

For those interested in the nitty-gritty of Harley bikes and history, consider a guided tour. Options range from the hourlong "Spotlight Tour" (which costs an additional $15 per person) to the 90-minute "Beyond the Gate Tour," which costs an extra $40 per person and includes a visit to the Motorcycle Vault. For the ultimate experience, the $125 "VIP Tour" is a two-hour guided tour through the museum and the vault, and includes a chat with a curator or archivist. An audio guide is also available for an additional $5.

Milwaukee Public Market Milwaukee Public Market free

Milwaukee's indoor market is home to nearly 20 independent vendors serving a variety of cuisines like sushi, pizza, baked goods and more. If you'd like to see how the sausage literally gets made, sign up for one of the market's cooking classes. Hands-on and demonstration-only options are available, as well as classes geared toward kids. In addition to food and beverage offerings, Milwaukee Public Market's list of vendors also includes Brew City Brand Apparel, where you can find designs that celebrate Milwaukee's beer empire. Remember to check the market's calendar for live music, too.

Past market visitors enjoyed the array of options available for hungry customers. (Quite a few reviewers specifically recommend the food at St. Paul Fish Company.) However, they also note that the market can get very crowded, so keep that in mind before you go. A few reviewers recommended stopping by the retail shops if you're looking for a unique souvenir.

Milwaukee Art Museum Milwaukee Art Museum

This art museum (known as MAM), is a showstopper thanks to its dramatic design. With its gleaming white exterior, Windover Hall opens to a 90-foot vaulted glass ceiling under the cantilevered wings of the Burke Brise Soleil – a moveable, wing-like sunscreen. The complex also includes the War Memorial Center by Eero Saarinen, designer of the Gateway Arch . Within the 341,000-square-foot complex, the museum spans four floors with a collection that includes 30,000 works of art. The MAM boasts one of the largest Georgia O'Keeffe collections in the world (she was a Wisconsin native). Additionally, find works from 15th- to 20th-century European artists, as well as 17th- to 20th-century American artists.

According to past visitors, seeing the Quadracci Pavilion's wings (the Burke Brise Soleil) open is a highlight. In fact, some reported visiting several times. Most recent visitors gushed over the complex's architecture, from its wings to the all-white Windover Hall to the view of the lake. In addition to the building, visitors enjoyed the art collection. Note: The wings won't open if it is raining or windy.

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Milwaukee County Zoo Milwaukee County Zoo

Spotted hyenas, camels, and three species of penguin are just some of the animals you'll see if you visit the Milwaukee County Zoo. Opened in 1892, the zoo started as a miniature mammal and bird display and has since expanded to nearly 200 acres containing more than 2,200 animals from 330 species. Along with its animal residents, the zoo also offers a number of rides and attractions like a carousel and a safari train. Additionally, it hosts special events throughout the year, such as Boo at the Zoo, a Halloween-themed event, and Wild Lights, a holiday lights display.

Past visitors said the zoo is laid out well, with informative signage. The elephants and baby giraffes (born August 2022) were highlights for past visitors. Others recommended the on-site playground when you need a break from the animals. A few reviewers were annoyed with the additional parking charge ($15 per vehicle). 

American Family Field American Family Field

Milwaukeeans love their sports, and the city offers a robust tailgate culture on game day featuring plenty of beer and brats. American Family Field (previously Miller Park), is home to Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers. Whether you're a long-time fan or a first-time spectator, you'll enjoy taking in a game beneath the stadium's retractable roof. Thanks to this unique roof, you'll never have to worry about inclement weather, which is a huge perk for many visitors. If you're not in town to catch a game, you can sign up for a stadium tour, which visits locations with the park not normally accessible to fans, such as the broadcast booth, the press box, the dugout, the bullpen and the luxury suite level. Tickets for tours start at $15 for adults and $10 for kids ages 3 to 12.

Recent game attendees appreciated the affordable food options at the park, including the tasty cheese curds. Some grumbled about the cost of parking, but many complimented the friendly staff.

Lakefront Brewery Lakefront Brewery

Considered by several former visitors to be one of the best brewery tours in Milwaukee thanks to its tasty brews and entertaining guides, Lakefront Brewery's tours are also one of the best deals around. For between $12 and $13 (depending on the day), tourgoers can see much of the brewery, enjoy two 16-ounce pours of beer and take home a souvenir pint glass.While the brewery's offerings change throughout the year, the year-round brews include a variety of India pale ales, lagers and gluten-free and seasonal beers.

For a true taste of Wisconsin, previous travelers recommend eating at the on-site beer hall after your tour to savor some regional delicacies like cheese curds, Bavarian-style pretzels and brats while overlooking the river. The Friday fish fry is especially popular with locals and tourists, thanks to its pairing of delicious brews and fresh fish with a live polka band. Families discouraged the tours if little ones are in tow, as the jokes and humor are not kid-friendly.

Pabst Mansion Pabst Mansion

Pabst Mansion – the former home of captain Frederick and Maria Pabst (a beer baron of Milwaukee) – was just one of a few dozen lavish estates that lined what was then Grand Avenue (so named for its wealthy residents and their impressive homes). Built in 1892, the home became the center of cultured society in Milwaukee. Costing a little more than $254,000 (in 1892 dollars) to construct, the elaborate mansion boasts 37 rooms, 14 fireplaces and more than a dozen bathrooms. Saved from the bulldozer in 1978, the Pabst Mansion has undergone an extensive restoration aided by historic photos and original furniture. The standard 60-minute tour is guided and includes details about the Pabst family history, as well as the home's architecture and furnishings. In addition, visitors can choose a self-guided tour, a 30-minute kid-friendly tour or a variety of specialty tours, including an adults-only happy hour tour that includes a free Pabst Blue Ribbon beer.

Previous visitors appreciated the original furniture on the first floor. Travelers who opted for the guided tour spoke highly of their docents, who were knowledgeable of the home and its family. Old house enthusiasts compared the Pabst Mansion to Rhode Island's Newport mansions and the Biltmore in Asheville, North Carolina . Many recommend visiting during the winter months when the mansion is beautifully decorated for the holidays.

Basilica of St. Josaphat Basilica of St. Josaphat free

The grandiose Basilica of St. Josaphat attracts more than faithful Catholics – it's admired by architecture lovers and history buffs alike. Modeled after  Rome 's famous  St. Peter's Basilica , this Milwaukee religious site was designed by German architect Erhard Brielmaier after the original church burned down in 1889. And like its Roman counterpart, the Basilica of St. Josaphat features a cross-shaped floor plan, as well as a massive copper dome. Along with its impressive exterior, the interior is decorated with stained-glass windows, painted columns and oil murals completed by Roman artists. The building was designated a basilica by the pope in 1929, a rite for the most decorative and historically significant of Catholic churches. 

The basilica earns praise from recent visitors, who describe being "simply stunned" by its ornate interiors. Although several former visitors highly recommend attending Sunday Mass here, you can also take a self-guided tour. Stop by the visitor center to pick up a walking tour brochure. The center is located in the Pope John Paul II Pavilion on the west side of the basilica and open Monday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Note that the last tour of the day must begin at 2:15 p.m. The center also houses photo exhibits detailing the basilica's construction.

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Milwaukee RiverWalk Milwaukee RiverWalk free

Connecting three riverfront neighborhoods – the Historic Third Ward, downtown and Beerline "B" – the Milwaukee RiverWalk is enjoyed by locals and travelers alike. The walkway, which extends for 20 blocks, features dining, shopping and public art installations. It's also where you'll find the iconic Bronze Fonz statue, which depicts Arthur Fonzarelli ("Fonzie"), Henry Winkler's character in the Milwaukee-set sitcom, "Happy Days."

In the Historic Third Ward, visitors can access more than 20 galleries and art studios, the Milwaukee Institute of Art and Design and the Broadway Theatre Center. In the downtown section, travelers will pass through the city's largest theater district, as well as a three-block historic landmark zone known for its German heritage. The northern section of the RiverWalk encompasses the Beerline "B" neighborhood, which is mostly residential and home to the Lakefront Brewery .

Discovery World Discovery World

For a kid-friendly spot, spend some time at Milwaukee's technology and science center. Discovery World offers multiple hands-on exhibits and experiences to keep the little ones engaged. At the museum's Reiman Aquarium, see marine animals of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, the Amazon River and the Great Lakes. Interactive displays at the museum include Les Paul's "House of Sound," which displays some of the jazz musician's famous Gibson Les Paul guitars. The model railroad exhibit enchants young and old and features Milwaukee landmarks in miniature. The facility is also home to one of the world's largest interactive models of the Great Lakes.

The aquarium is a favorite among previous visitors and the view of Lake Michigan is well appreciated. A couple of reviewers said some exhibits need repair and felt worn, but overall, most visitors with children enjoyed their time and recommended it to others.

Milwaukee Public Museum Milwaukee Public Museum

If you're looking for ancient creatures, human history, and live butterflies all in the same place, the Milwaukee Public Museum has you covered. With a collection of 4 million specimens, permanent exhibits range from a 14,000-year-old Hebior mammoth skeleton to a life-size "Streets of Old Milwaukee" diorama that offers a glimpse at what the city may have looked like in the early 1900s. Enjoy a walk through a re-created century-old village, inspired by 33 different European cultures, then stop by the Puelicher Butterfly Wing, where you can watch butterflies flit around a two-story garden. And in the Native Games exhibit, visitors can learn about the history and significance of games played by tribes throughout the U.S. and Canada. The Daniel M. Soref Plantarium and Dome Theater offer stargazing programs (included in admission) as well as educational films (for a fee).

Previous visitors sang the praises of the butterfly exhibit, along with the dinosaur displays. The "Streets of Old Milwaukee" exhibit seemed to be a favorite, though a few travelers were disappointed that it didn't represent people of color. Several reviewers commented on the "tired" feel of some of the displays. The museum will be opening up a new facility in 2026 in the Haymarket neighborhood, which will include new exhibits.

Great Lakes Distillery Great Lakes Distillery free

Rum, whiskey, vodka and gin aren't just the staples of a good bartender – they're also what you'll find at Great Lakes Distillery. As the first distillery in Wisconsin to open since Prohibition, it prides itself on using local ingredients, such as Door County cherries and Wisconsin-grown grain. Visitors can join an hourlong tour of the distillery, or take a seat in the tasting room to enjoy an extensive cocktail menu along with local favorites like walleye and cheese curds.

Recent visitors spoke highly of the tour, applauding the informative guides and the chance to see the distillation process up close. Other reviewers enjoyed the atmosphere of the tasting room and recommended it to locals and visitors alike. The food and drink offerings received high praise as well.

Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory

If you want to sound like a local, refer to the Mitchell Park Horticultural Conservatory as "The Domes." Occupying land in Mitchell Park, one of the first five parks created as part of the Milwaukee Parks Commission in 1890, the conservatory's star attractions are its three beehive-shaped glass domes. Each dome offers a different experience and environment for visitors.

The Desert Dome houses more than 600 plants originating from regions around the world, including North and South America, Southern Africa and the Canary Islands, and Madagascar. As you admire the cacti, dragon blood trees, Gerbera daisies and the crown of thorns, keep your eyes peeled for Steve, the dome's resident bearded dragon. The Tropical Dome is a popular place to visit in the fall and winter, when the dome's 80-degree temps provide a welcome respite from the snow falling outside. You'll feel like you've stepped into a rainforest thanks to the orchids, hibiscus, palm trees and birds-of-paradise that surround you. Meanwhile, the Floral Dome hosts five floral shows throughout the year based on the season. Time your visit between November and January if you'd like to see the popular Holiday Show, when poinsettias, chrysanthemums and amaryllis fill the space, or during the spring, when tulips, hyacinths, daffodils, pansies and lilies are in full bloom.

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North Point Lighthouse North Point Lighthouse

One of a string of lighthouses perched along the shores of Lake Michigan, the North Point Lighthouse was originally constructed in 1855 to help mariners navigate the Great Lakes. In the years that followed, the lighthouse structure was modified several times; the lighthouse you see today is not the original. Now fully restored and operating as a historic site, the attraction welcomes visitors to tour its exhibits and former keeper's quarters. To reach the lantern room and enjoy expansive views, visitors (5 and older) must climb 84 stairs and a ladder to reach the top of the 74-foot-tall lighthouse. Aside from the lighthouse and its exhibits, visitors may also be interested in the park where it is located (Lake Park), which was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, who is best known for designing the grounds of New York City 's Central Park .

Recent travelers enjoyed their visit, even if the lighthouse wasn't open for tours. Many commented on the lighthouse's impressive restoration and maintenance. For those visitors who enjoyed a tour, each said the docents were well-informed. Several reviewers complimented the gardens surrounding the area, saying it added to their photos.

Veterans Park Veterans Park free

Jutting into Lake Michigan, Veterans Park wraps around McKinley Marina and is a popular place for locals and visitors alike to hang out and relax. Along with plenty of wide, open spaces, the park is home to a 14-acre lagoon and canoe, kayak and swan pedal boat rentals during the warmer months. For those who prefer to stay on land, the paved Oak Leaf Trail circumvents the 92-acre park and is popular with cyclists and joggers alike.

Recent visitors appreciated the park's close proximity to downtown Milwaukee. Others came to pay respects for those who have served in the armed forces. Several visitors suggested stopping by the Gift of Wings Kite Store to pick up a kite to fly at the park (the Lake Michigan breeze creates ideal kite-flying conditions). Several previous visitors enjoyed the various festivals hosted at the park throughout the year.

Bradford Beach Bradford Beach free

This urban beach located just north of downtown Milwaukee features plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the Lake Michigan views. Along with beach volleyball, Bradford Beach is also a prime birding hot spot – more than 200 species have been spotted here. There's also a free beach wheelchair checkout, as well as a permanent concrete ramp and Mobi-mats for accessing the sand. For beachside snacking, find a seasonal custard shop and a cafe that serves beer, wine and cocktails, along with a full dining menu.  

Bradford Beach earns positive reviews from summertime visitors, especially locals. Most described the beach as clean and relaxing. Others appreciated the free and convenient nearby parking, as well as the food and drink vendors.

Schlitz Audubon Nature Center Schlitz Audubon Nature Center

Once home to the Schlitz Brewery's draft horses, this 185-acre property attracts visitors and locals alike with its 6 miles of hiking trails bisecting forest, restored prairies, ravines, wetlands and the Lake Michigan lakeshore. In the late 1800s, the Uihlein Schlitz family acquired the land from individual owners and used it to rest the draft horses they used for pulling beer carts. After Prohibition, vehicles replaced horses and the land was used for recreation and eventually donated to the National Audubon Society. In addition to hiking trails, visitors can learn about birds of prey in the raptor center or use the accessible Mystery Lake boardwalk. Travelers can climb above the tree canopy via the 60-foot observation tower to see the nature center and Lake Michigan. For those who don't want to climb the tower, a Lake Michigan viewing platform is also available. Inside the visitor center, find exhibits detailing the work at the center, an art display and special programming just for kids

Most recent visitors commented on the well-maintained property and the views of Lake Michigan. For those who visited during the fall, they gushed over the foliage colors and abundance of wildlife. Many also appreciated the clean restroom facilities and the informative visitor center.

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12 Fun Places to Visit in Wisconsin in Summer

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: April 29, 2024  - Last updated: May 6, 2024

With pleasant weather ranging from 70° to 85°F (20° to 30°C) and so many places to visit in Wisconsin in summer , the Badger State is a perfect place to enjoy the warm weather. 

Whether you like to stroll around the State Capitol in Madison or prefer spending your summer days exploring the waterparks in Wisconsin Dells, you won’t run out of places to vacation in Wisconsin in summer! 

In this post, I’m going to share top destinations you should add to your summer vacation itinerary when you travel Wisconsin .

From museum hopping to exploring breweries and wineries, let’s dive into it!

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

Psssst…!!??  You can’t get enough of Wisconsin? Have a look at my other posts:

• Wisconsin Road Trips
• Yoga Retreats in Wisconsin
• Breweries in Wisconsin

Table of Contents

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Overview: Top 5 Places to Visit in Wisconsin in Summer

• Door County during sunset
• Mt. Olympus Water Park
• Harley-Davidson Museum
• Grand Geneva Resort and Spa
• Downtown Madison

1. Door County

Door County is one of the best places to visit during summer, as the county offers so many outdoor activities—ideal for your Wisconsin vacation ideas ! 

Peninsula State Park is especially popular as a summer destination in Wisconsin, where you can go hiking or kayaking while enjoying the natural beauty around the park.

On this Door County Sunset Tour , you can paddle around the state park during the golden hour to see the peak of the natural scenery in the surroundings. 

With its rich maritime history, the Door County Maritime Museum is a must-visit in the summer.

You can book accommodation in downtown Sturgeon Bay for easy access to the museum. 

In addition to learning more about the county’s maritime history, you can also snag a ticket to go to the Door Peninsula Lighthouse Festival.

Open twice annually, you’ll get a chance to enter some Door County lighthouses that are usually closed to the public, including the lighthouses in Chambers Island and Sherwood Point.

Book Door County Sunset Tour here

2. Wisconsin Dells

Dubbed the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” there are 20 water parks in Wisconsin Dells – making it one of the best places to go in Wisconsin in summer.

To make the most of your summer holiday, you can choose to go to either outdoor or indoor water parks in Wisconsin Dells. 

As one of the largest water parks in Wisconsin Dells, I recommend booking your accommodation at Mt. Olympus Water Park and Theme Park Resort for the best experience. 

Apart from the water park, Wisconsin Dells is also a great place for various outdoor activities.

You can go hiking on some of the best scenic nature trails in Wisconsin Dells, such as the Ice Age or Witch’s Gulch.

Alternatively, you can also join this historic trolley tour to explore some of the best-hidden gems in Wisconsin Dells.

In this tour, you’ll explore the Wisconsin River, with multiple stops in between—including Wisconsin Dells downtown and Newport Park.

Book Mt. Olympus Water Park accommodation

3. Milwaukee

Milwaukee is the melting pot of Wisconsin historical significance and modern attractions, making it one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin in summer. 

The largest city in Wisconsin hosts some of the world-class summer festivals you should include in your visit during this time of the year.

In addition to cultural festivals like German Fest and Polish Fest, Milwaukee also offers Summerfest between June and July every year. 

As one of the largest music festivals in the world, Summerfest features performances from over 500 artists, making it one of the best summer vacations in Wisconsin!

Visiting Milwaukee in the summer is only complete with making a stop at the Harley-Davidson Museum. 

It’s one of the most popular things to do in Milwaukee with kids , and you can get your admission ticket to the Harley-Davidson Museum to check out some of the best classic American motorbikes!

For easy access to all the must-visit attractions in Milwaukee, I recommend booking your accommodation in Milwaukee downtown . 

Get Harley-Davidson Museum tickets here

4. Lake Geneva

As one of the most popular destinations for weekend trips in Wisconsin , Lake Geneva is a great recreational spot to visit all year round. 

However, Lake Geneva comes alive in the warmer season – making it one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin in the summer. 

From a hot-air balloon ride to hopping aboard one of the Lake Geneva cruise lines, there are many ways to enjoy the city view of Lake Geneva, WI. 

To make the most of your stay in Lake Geneva, I highly recommend staying at Grand Geneva Resort and Spa .

They offer various fun things to do in Lake Geneva , including horseback riding or a fun day out at Moose Mountain Falls Waterpark.

Book Grand Geneva Resort accommodation

5. Apostle Islands

Situated on Lake Superior, Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is one of the most fantastic places to visit in Wisconsin in summer. 

To visit the archipelago, you can book your accommodation in Bayfield , a local town near the lakeshore. 

You can join one of the Apostle Islands cruises from Bayfield to explore the archipelago. 

You can also consider camping or booking a place on Madeline Island .

As the largest island in the Apostle Islands, the island offers various outdoor things to do in Wisconsin .

You can go camping or hiking at Big Bay State Park on Madeline Island. 

If you’re into indoor activities, make a stop at the Madeline Island Museum to check out some of the best historic artifacts from Lake Superior and beyond.

Book Madeline Island accommodation

6. Green Bay

If you want to experience the best of American sports culture, Green Bay is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin during summer. 

Home to the Green Bay Packers, it’s the locals’ pride and joy – and you can experience a glimpse of it if you visit Lambeau Field, the home stadium of the Packers.

Every summer, they host Packers Training Camp, where fans can attend their open practice and some additional events to enjoy, especially for American football enthusiasts. 

Planning to come to the Packers Training Camp? This condo in the Titletown District of Green Bay is located only a mile from Lambeau Field, making it a perfect place to stay in Green Bay for this event!

Book Green Bay accommodation

7. Devil’s Lake State Park

As Wisconsin’s most visited state park, Devil’s Lake State Park should be included in the list of places to visit in Wisconsin in summer.

The park offers a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking to rock climbing. 

With Devil’s Lake being one of the main spots to visit in the state park, I also love renting a kayak or a paddleboard to explore the waterways when visiting the state park. 

If you’re looking for a beach getaway, there’s also a nearby beach where you can spend a hot summer day swimming or sunbathing.

8. Door Peninsula Wineries

Door County is not only one of the best vacation destinations in Wisconsin for those looking for thrilling adventures, but it’s also a great place to spend a relaxing summer holiday in the Badger State. 

One of the most popular things to do on the Door Peninsula in the summer is to explore some of the area’s best wineries.

Home to some of the best Wisconsin wineries, you can start your wine trail in Door County with Door County Winery.

As the largest winery in Door County, they provide wine tours and tasting sessions several times daily.

In addition to wine tasting, you can also explore the winery and see the process from production to final bottling before sampling some of the best wines in town. 

9. Hayward Lakes Area

The Badger State is a safe haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as they will never run out of places to visit in Wisconsin in summer.

Another spot to consider is the Hayward Lakes Area in the heart of Wisconsin, where you can do anything from swimming and ATV riding to birdwatching around the forest area. 

This Fancy Fireflies Studio Cabin is a perfect getaway when you want to spend a night or two around the lake area.

For a budget-friendly alternative, you can also bring your own tent and rent one of the campsites there. 

When in Hayward, remember to stop by the area’s most popular landmark: the Freshwater Fishing Wall of Fame, which features a museum with thousands of sportfishing artifacts!

Book Lake Hayward accommodation

10. Wisconsin Northwoods

If you’re looking for one of the best off-beaten-path places to see in Wisconsin in summer, head over to Wisconsin Northwoods to get on a scenic getaway with a lot of fun summer activities! 

The charming town of Minocqua is a must-visit, and it’s also a popular area for lodging if you plan to stay overnight around the Northwoods.

This lakeview cabin in Minocqua is a perfect place to stay, especially if you’re planning to travel to Wisconsin Northwoods in a group!

Enjoy plenty of fun things to do in Minocqua in summer !

Book Minocqua accommodation

11. Madison

As the state capital, you should also include Madison in the bucket list of places to visit in Wisconsin in summer as the city offers so many fun activities in the area. 

When the sun is out, it’s the best way to explore Madison downtown with electronic bikes . 

You can join a free tour to explore the State Capitol building that’s available every day. 

Summer is a perfect time to go as you can visit the Capitol’s museum and observation deck, which are only open in the summer. 

Capitol Square is often transformed into the venue of several events you should add to the things to do in Madison , including the Art Fair and Concert on the Square for the summer. 

From April to November, you can also visit the Dane County Farmers’ Market every Saturday in Capitol Square.

It’s America’s largest producer-only market, which makes it a perfect spot to support local businesses and farmers in Wisconsin!

Book downtown Madison E-Bike tour

12. Kohler-Andrae State Park

Situated on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, Kohler-Andrae State Park is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin during summer for beach relaxation. 

You can visit some of the most pristine sandy beaches in Wisconsin , and the state park also offers an impressive network of hiking trails where you can enjoy nature while birdwatching in the area. 

Kohler-Andrae State Park also has several campsites to connect more with nature.

For a more convenient option, this tranquil cottage near the state park is also a perfect spot to stay near the Lake Michigan shoreline. 

Book accommodation near Lake Michigan

My final thoughts on places to visit in Wisconsin in Summer

With over 60 state parks in the Badger State, Wisconsin is a perfect place to visit in the summer for outdoor enthusiasts.

In addition to outdoor activities, some tourist destinations in Wisconsin also offer activities for urban travelers – whether to enjoy the waterparks in Wisconsin Dells or even watch the Packers Training Camp in Green Bay! 

Summer is also the best time to visit Wisconsin, as many tourist spots are open during this time of year, including the Door County lighthouses and the observation deck at the Capitol in Madison. 

So, are you ready to explore the best of Wisconsin next summer?

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

• 10 Cutest Small Towns In Wisconsin To Visit In 2024

There is more to Wisconsin than its vibrant dairy industry. Beyond picturesque farms and cheese factories, the state offers a charming collection of small towns, each with its own unique draw. Whether you are interested in history, outdoor recreation, or small-town charm, Wisconsin's scenic communities make for delightful short trips or longer getaways. Their relaxed rural feel and slow pace of life provide the perfect scenario for an escape from the urban hustle and bustle.

This year presents a perfect opportunity to discover some of the cutest towns in Wisconsin. Ranging from Northwoods hamlets to Lake Michigan enclaves, these hidden gems promise to satisfy your travel urges in 2024. Plan to spend meaningful time strolling downtowns, hiking scenic paths, and interacting with friendly locals to truly experience Badger State's unique small-town appeal.

Many people visit Sheboygan to catch some of the best waves the Great Lakes have to offer. The Freshwater Surf Capital of the World, as it is popularly known, is a tourist hub with something to offer all types of travelers. Its vibrant art scene can easily rival bigger cities in Wisconsin and features a range of delightful art venues. The John Michael Kohler Arts Center is a world-class complex for visual and performance arts. Sheboygan's shoreline location presents cozy outdoor scenery. Kohler-Andrae State Park is where tourists go to be one with nature, featuring sandy shores and exquisite views of Lake Michigan .

Vacationing families have plenty of options to ensure it is never a dull time for the young ones while in Sheboygan. Above and Beyond Children's Museum is an excellent option, and exposes them to fun, interactive exhibits while providing an interesting lesson on an array of subjects.

From a world-class art landscape and delectable dining scene to picturesque golf courses, Egg Harbor hits way above its weight class when it comes to tourist activities. This modest Door County village offers a slice of cozy lakefront haven at Egg Harbor Beach, which charms with a tranquil environment and exquisite bay vistas. Golfing is a go-to activity for travelers in Egg Harbor thanks to world-class courses like the Orchards at Egg Harbor. Straddling 200 acres, with scenic greens and 18 holes, it presents the perfect pastime for enthusiasts of all skill levels.

A bustling arts community in Egg Harbor invites visitors to make the most of both visual and performance art venues. Those who enjoy live shows gather at the Peg Egan Performing Arts Center to enjoy a range of theatrical performances in a beautiful outdoor setting.

This Door County gem introduces tourists to the perks of living by the lake. Home to a tiny community of just over 1,000, Sister Bay enjoys quintessential small-town charm. It boasts secluded nature spaces perfect for unwinding while enjoying quality alone time. Sister Bay Beach is a great option, beckoning outdoor enthusiasts to indulge in fun water activities like swimming and rafting. Several local outfitters, including Sister Bay Scenic Boat Tours, allow tourists to experience the town from the water on an exciting sailing trip.

Sister Bay is also known for its lively restaurant scene, with various eateries promising to tantalize each taste bud in town. If you fancy culture-infused cuisine, consider stopping by Al Johnson's Swedish Restaurant & Butik for some sumptuous traditional Swedish dishes.

Platteville

This bustling college town in Grant County is home to the University of Wisconsin campus and harbors a bubbly, youthful population. It offers a diversity of experiences, making it a prime destination for all tourists. History lovers have multiple options to discover the town's past, including the Mining & Rollo Jamison Museums. The college population takes its sports seriously, and the buzzing atmosphere at Ralph E. Davis Pioneer Stadium whenever there is a football game accords visitors a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Those who like to step into the outdoors will have a wonderful time hiking along the Rountree Branch Trail.

Meanwhile, Platteville's rich agricultural heritage shows during the different festivals held in the town across the year. Visiting during the Farm-to-Table Drive-Thru Dinner, scheduled for August 2024, offers tourists a great opportunity to interact with the locals and sample their farm-to-table cuisine.

Sturgeon Bay

If you are open to exciting angling expeditions during your vacation, there is no better destination to visit than Sturgeon Bay. A fisherman's mecca, Sturgeon Bay has beautiful natural surroundings synonymous with the Door Peninsula. This is best exemplified by Cave Point County Park, which features dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking the stunning waters of Lake Michigan. The spot is tailor-made for family picnics, offering an easygoing atmosphere and a soothing breeze from the lake.

Sturgeon Bay has a well-preserved seafaring heritage that visitors can explore by browsing a diverse collection of artifacts exhibited inside the Door County Maritime Museum. Finally, remember to check out the town's vibrant art scene before leaving. Stopping by Third Avenue PlayWorks allows you to enjoy compelling stage performances in a premier theater venue.

Baileys Harbor

Baileys Harbor stands out for its picturesque lighthouse, fun water adventures, and a slew of festivals held throughout the year. For many tourists, one of the first places to visit is Cana Island Lighthouse. The iconic landmark was built in 1869 on the shore of Lake Michigan and provides the perfect background for a photograph. Exploring the outdoors is a safe bet in Baileys Harbor thanks to its lovely nature spaces and stunning water views. Adventurers can find scenic nature trails at Kangaroo Lake Nature Preserve or take to the water with Shoreline Boat Tours.

For the best cultural experience, schedule your visit to coincide with one of the many festivals held in Baileys Harbor. Highlights include Autumn Fest in September 2024, which brings the community together to celebrate local arts and crafts, great music, and an assortment of family-friendly activities.

Ranked among the best lakefront towns in Wisconsin, Two Rivers promises a laid-back retreat on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its mild temperatures perfectly complement exploring its beautiful nature spaces, including sunbathing on the sandy shores of Neshotah Park. Away from the water, Woodland Dunes Nature Center & Preserve harbors a variety of recreation opportunities, ranging from hiking miles of nature trails and kayaking to stargazing across its 1,500-acre territory.

When not discovering the great outdoors, tourists can check out the different interesting museums in Two Rivers. Noteworthy among them is the Rogers Street Fishing Village, where a collection of artifacts documents the storied maritime time heritage of the town and Wisconsin as a whole.

This artsy community on the relaxed shores of Lake Michigan offers visitors every reason to embrace the outdoor lifestyle. It hosts beautiful natural surroundings and you can soak in the scenery with a stroll along the Crescent Beach Boardwalk. The setting is ideal for beach lovers and presents recreations like swimming, beach volleyball, and bird watching. Algoma Pierhead Lighthouse is another must-see spot in the town. Besides enticing tourists with Instagram-worthy photo opportunities, it is an important historical landmark that takes you back to the late 19th century.

Algoma is renowned for its rich arts heritage; walking around downtown exposes an impressive cluster of galleries, including the Pottery Co-op and the Clay on Steel. While exploring the neighborhood, consider passing by von Stiehl Winery for a taste of local wine offerings.

Washington Island

From thin crowds and beautiful nature areas to quaint galleries, Washington Island delivers the perfect getaway from busy city life. It houses less than 1,000 residents, leaving enough room for explorers to roam freely. A picnic at SchoolHouse Beach is a great way to spend time on Washington Island, a beach famous for its naturally smoothened limestone rocks. Elsewhere, visiting the Washington Island Farm Museum provides insight into the town's history through a collection of old structures, antique farm implements, and other artifacts.

Art connoisseurs are in for a remarkable experience on Washington Island. The town has a share of venues worth exploring, highlighted by the Art & Nature Center. Additionally, Trueblood Performing Arts Center is better suited for those who enjoy theatrical performances.

Fish Creek is the ideal jump-off base for tourists planning to discover Door County . The town is chock-full of attractions, but the crowning jewel is Peninsula State Park. Spreading over 3,700 acres, the preserve harbors all manner of recreations, from hiking and camping to nature viewing. One of the most visited areas in the park is Eagle Tower, a 60-foot platform that guests climb to soak in unparalleled vistas of the surroundings. Another great space for outdoor lovers is Sunset Beach Park, which puts you in the right place to admire magical sunsets.

On the other hand, the art-inclined will prefer touring the Edgewood Orchard Galleries. This Fish Creek attraction has been around since 1969 delighting tourists with jewelry, sculptures, and paintings on exhibit in a restored 1918 barn.

Final Thought

Wisconsin's quaint small towns charm visitors with their effortless appeal. Whether seeking cultural enrichment in heritage river outposts, relaxation amid off-beat countryside escapes, or rejuvenation along scenic lakefront enclaves, the above small towns in Wisconsin offer a taste of the unparalleled Midwestern charm the Badger State is renowned for in the United States . Topping off any 2024 Wisconsin itinerary with a stop in one or more of the cutest towns mentioned makes a return visit irresistible.

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The northern lights danced across the US last night. It could happen again Saturday.

Amazing auroras sparked by a massive solar storm — the strongest in decades — set the world abuzz Friday night as colorful glowing light radiated into the skies as far south as Florida and the Bahamas, to the surprising delight of many who waited up and kept watch.

And good news for anyone who missed it: You may get another chance Saturday night or Sunday.

"Overnight, aurora were visible across much of the United States. Weather permitting, they may be visible again tonight," the Space Weather Prediction Center said in a Saturday morning update . A later update suggests the possibility of widespread viewing in the U.S. on Sunday too.

(A word of caution, experts have previously told USA TODAY that forecasting space weather is difficult . Researchers must rely on observations of the 93-million-miles-away sun to make their predictions.)

Northern lights are only visible at night time, and experts say it's best to view them away from the hustle and bustle of city life to get the best show. Still, Americans in cities said they could see the lights overnight, including in metro Detroit .

Wisconsinites got to see the lights dance across the sky in green and purple hues. Even residents of downtown Milwaukee caught a glimpse despite the bright city lights obstructing the view.

See photos: Northern lights on full display across US, Europe on Friday

Will the aurora be visible this weekend?

It could be.

The Space Weather Prediction Center offers an experimental forecast map that showed on Saturday the aurora may be visible Saturday in a wide swath of the U.S., possibly in states including Oregon, Nebraska, Indiana, Pennsylvania and New York. But visibility will depend on shifting factors that include weather.

For Sunday, space weather forecasters said the aurora could become visible again over the northern half of the country, with sights extending as far south as Alabama and northern California. The effects of that storm are expected to arrive Sunday morning ET.

What is the cloud forecast Saturday night? Will clouds block the northern lights?

If you missed the aurora borealis Friday night, you might still catch a glimpse on Saturday or Sunday, depending on where you live. But not if clouds get in the way.

The cloud forecast for Saturday night is generally good for most of America, but some of the people who missed their chance last night due to clouds may have a similar problem Saturday, said AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tom Kines. Areas that are likely to be cloudy include New England and Mid-Atlantic regions, as well as parts of the Southern Plains, including Oklahoma, Kansas and Colorado.

“Even just a few breaks in the clouds will allow the aurora to be visible,” Kines said. “There’s always hope.”

Peak visibility time Saturday night will be between 9 p.m. and midnight, with some chance until 2 a.m., Kines said. The best views will be in dark areas away from the light pollution of cities, he said, though some reported seeing the auroras Friday night from metro areas like Milwaukee and Detroit.

Sunday night, if there is any aurora to see, those in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic can rejoice, because Kines said the skies should be clearer.

What is causing the northern lights this weekend?

The spectacle is being caused by geomagnetic storm that erupted from a sunspot cluster on the sun.

The storm was unusually strong — classified as "extreme" (or a G5) storm, the highest level, the  Space Weather Prediction Center  said Friday evening. It's the first G5 storm to hit our planet since 2003.

The geomagnetic storm's effects (which aren't all as pretty as the northern lights) are likely to linger through the weekend. The  Space Weather Prediction Center  said the storm is likely to continue through Sunday.

"There have been reports of power grid irregularities and degradation to high-frequency communications and GPS," the Space Weather Prediction Center said in a Saturday morning update.

Where were the northern lights seen on Friday night?

Across much of the United States and Europe where skies were clear — as far south as Florida, Oklahoma, Texas and Arizona.

To the great disappointment of many in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, cloud cover dimmed or obstructed the stunning display altogether.

Although it's unusual, auroras have been seen in the far southern United States in the past. This happens when a particularly large coronal mass ejection arrives in the Earth's outer atmosphere, triggering a geomagnetic storm, NOAA reports.

On the night of Nov. 5-6, 2001 , aurora displays were seen in Texas and Arizona.

What causes the aurora?

NASA describes an aurora as an "intricate dance of particles and magnetism between the Sun and the Earth."

The Sun's activity creates strong electrical currents known as geomagnetic storms.

These eruptions are mostly happening at a large, complex sunspot cluster, NOAA'S Space Weather Prediction Center said. Sunspots, which increase and decrease on a 11-year cycle, are areas where the magnetic field is about 2,500 times stronger than Earth's.

The reason the auroras move is because of how the Sun's ionized gases interact with the Earth's magnetic field.

If you took a great photo, NASA wants to know

In a collaboration with the National Science Foundation and the New Mexico Consortium aurora sightings and photos are being collected at the Aurorasaurus web page.

Why was the aurora borealis so red on Friday?

Mike Theiss, an extreme nature photographer and hurricane storm chaser, who lives in Florida was shocked to see posts Friday night about how far south people were seeing the auroras. To his amazement, he was able to step out of his front door in Key Largo in the Florida Keys and see and photograph the aurora. Hours later he was still incredulous, and surprised at the colors in the aurora.

"I’ve documented the Northern Lights in Iceland, North Dakota, Arctic Circle in Canada but never this red color," Theiss said. "This is the first time I’ve seen red."

The multiple colors seen in auroras are related to the types of gas being bombarded at various levels above the Earth. Auroras occur within one of Earth's upper atmosphere layers, the thermosphere, according to the University Corporation for Atmospheric Research.

Solar particles trapped there interact with various gas molecules, such as nitrogen and oxygen, according to the research corporation's website. Oxygen gives off green and red lights, while nitrogen glows blue and reddish purple. For example, nitrogen gas glows blue at 75 to 110 miles altitude.

The less common red auroras form from interacting with higher altitude oxygen molecules, the website explains.

'Two incredible spectacles of the universe': Northern lights come about a month after eclipse

Seeing the aurora amazed Antonella Fruscione, an astrophysicist at Harvard University. She sent photos of the sight as well as the April total solar eclipse to her friends in Italy.

"And I sent them the picture that I took at the solar eclipse and I said, 'Can you imagine how fortunate I was this year, one month apart, I see these two incredible spectacles of the universe,'" she recalled telling them.

The phenomena seen Friday and possibly Saturday night is unusual, she said.

"It's a very rare occurrence, especially because last night it was really visible," Fruscione said.

What was the Halloween storm in October 2003?

Over two decades ago in late October 2003, three massive sunspot groups appeared on the sun's surface with little warning, accompanied by 17 major solar flares, according to the National Centers for Environmental Information.

Satellites, radio and GPS systems went on the fritz around the world, causing some major disruptions. But it also offered a stunning view of the auroras as far south as California and Florida. People in Australia and Mediterranean countries even caught a glimpse.

Contributing: Doyle Rice and Krystal Nurse , USA TODAY

Didn't see the Northern Lights last night? There's a chance they'll be back tonight.

Sky watchers will get another chance to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin later tonight after a large cloud plasma erupted into space, according to the NOAA Space Weather Prediction Center .

Particles from a coronal mass ejection arrived at Earth this weekend, causing this geomagnetic storm. As of Saturday afternoon, the sunspot still remains quite active and produced two or more flares in the past 12 hours, according to NOAA.

Here's what you need to know if you're trying to see the lights this weekend:

Can I see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin on Saturday night?

Northern lights may become visible over much of the northern half of the country again on Saturday night, according to NOAA.

For those in the Milwaukee area, afternoon clouds will thin out as the sun goes down and the evening skies will be mostly clear with some scattered clouds in the overnight hours, said Tim Halbach, local meteoroglist with the National Weather Service.

RELATED: Check out these photos from Wisconsinites who saw the Northern Lights last night

To monitor the aurora forecast, you can use the  NOAA aurora forecast tool , which has a 30-minute forecast window. There's also a tool on the Milwaukee Astronomical Society website at  www.milwaukeeastro.org .

On the tool, you'll see the Northern Lights prediction for 35 minutes ahead. You'll have good odds of seeing the Northern Lights if the color over Wisconsin is yellow, orange or even red.

When is the best time to see the Northern Lights in Wisconsin?

When northern lights are active, the best time to see them is between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m.

Where else will the Northern Lights be visible?

This aurora may become visible over most of the northern half of the country, like it did on Friday night, according to NOAA.

Here are some tips on how to see the Northern Lights:

Here are some viewing tips from Gene Hanson, observatory director for the  Milwaukee Astronomical Society :

• Head North:  The Northern Lights get their name for a reason. Hanson says that the aurora is bigger and more vibrant the farther north you go. “Even 60 miles north can make a tremendous difference,” Hanson says.
• Look for the horizon:  The northern horizon, that is. Hanson says that you want the most unobstructed view to the north that you can find. Again, they’re called the northern lights for a reason. The more north you can see, the more of the lights you could see.
• Move away from the light:  Light pollution is often the reason you can’t see stars when you’re in the city. So, get out and away from the city. Rural areas are best, and Hanson says that anywhere you can see the stars well will work, but the darker the better.

Where to view the night sky in Wisconsin:

Here's a list of places in Wisconsin that could offer some of the best views of the night sky:

• Newport State Park , Ellison Bay
• Driftless Wisconsin
• Harrington Beach State Park
• Kettle Moraine State Forest
• Kohler-Andrae State Park
• Parnell Tower

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RELATED: For the best Northern Lights viewing in Wisconsin, try these places

4 dead, 35 injured in Greenfield, Iowa, as dozens of tornadoes impact 6 states

"This is still a search and rescue mission," Gov. Reynolds said Wednesday.

Four people were killed and at least 35 were injured after a powerful tornado devastated Greenfield, Iowa, state police announced Wednesday.

Officials in Iowa's Adair County made the announcement about 24 hours after the twister hit the small town of Greenfield.

The names and ages of those killed in the severe weather event are not being released at this time, officials said.

Over the past 24 hours, tornadoes have been reported in Iowa, Nebraska, Missouri, Oklahoma, Wisconsin and Minnesota -- with a majority of the reports stemming from Iowa.

According to the National Weather Service, at least 21 of the 26 reported tornadoes spawned by severe weather on Tuesday struck Iowa between 5:44 p.m. and 11 p.m. CT.

"It's just gut-wrenching. It's horrific. It's hard to describe until you can actually see it, the devastation," Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said at a news conference in Greenfield Wednesday morning.

She said that much of the town of Greenfield was flattened in Tuesday's severe weather event.

The tornado that struck Greenfield was preliminarily confirmed by the National Weather Service as an EF-3 on the Enhanced Fujita Scale, with maximum wind speeds reaching 135 mph.

The Adair County Memorial Hospital, which serves Greenfield, sustained tornado damage, one official said Tuesday night, but workers still managed to treat patients and transport some to nearby hospitals for further care.

On Wednesday, the hospital released a statement saying the damage from the tornado required staff and patients to be evacuated from the facility.

The hospital will remain closed for weeks, if not months, to assess the damage and repair the building, according to the statement.

Neither staff nor patients were injured during the storm, according to hospital officials.

State Rep. Ray Sorensen, who represents Greenfield, said he was painting at a church when the tornado struck around 3 p.m. Tuesday and rushed into town to find numerous homes damaged or completely demolished and nearly all of the historic trees in Greenfield uprooted and stripped of limbs.

"It's a completely different town now," Sorensen said.

But he said that when he arrived at the scene of the devastation, people were already clearing the streets of debris to make way for emergency vehicles and helping those injured get medical attention at a makeshift triage center at a lumber yard.

"Everybody became little makeshift ambulances," Sorensen said. "We pulled a guy from the rubble and put him on a little makeshift stretcher that we made, threw him in the back of a truck of a guy that isn’t even from Iowa and we just made our way to the lumber yard, which was the makeshift hospital."

At least 329 severe storms were reported Tuesday through the nation's midsection from Texas to Michigan, even up in New England.

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More severe weather is on the way. The highest threat for tornadoes, damaging winds and large hail will be in Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana, including major cities such as Dallas, Waco, Abilene, Little Rock and Shreveport.

Some damaging winds could also develop in Memphis, Nashville, Louisville, Cincinnati, Pittsburgh, Buffalo and Rochester.

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Severe weather is also expected to stretch into Thursday as the Memorial Day weekend gets underway. Dangerous weather is expected on Thursday through large parts of the Heartland and parts of the South from South Dakota to Texas and east to Tennessee.

Temple City, Texas, which is located between Austin and Waco, issued an emergency declaration on Wednesday night. The Wilson Recreation Center in the area was turned into a makeshift shelter, officials said on Facebook .

On Tuesday, the National Weather Service issued tornado watches for parts of Nebraska, Iowa, South Dakota, Missouri, Arkansas, Wisconsin, Illinois, Minnesota, Kansas and Oklahoma.

Nearly the entire state of Iowa was under a "Particularly Dangerous Situation," according to the National Weather Service, which issued several tornado warnings before the town of Greenfield was slammed by a funnel cloud.

Gov. Reynolds authorized a proclamation of disaster emergency for 15 counties across the state. On Wednesday, she said the state will ask President Joe Biden to approve federal disaster relief.

The counties include Adair, Adams, Cass, Clay, Hardin, Harrison, Jasper, Kossuth, Marshall, Montgomery, Page, Palo Alto, Pottawattamie, Tama and Warren.

Several videos obtained by ABC affiliate station WOI-DT in Des Moines captured a large funnel cloud on the ground in Greenfield.

On Tuesday, WOI reporter Dana Searles, surveying the damage in Des Moines, said, "This small community has a big chunk destroyed, but about half of it is still intact. From what I've seen, I'd estimate that maybe 75% of it is near to the ground right now."

In Yuma, in northeast Colorado, hail ranging from golf ball to softball size pummeled the area, causing damage to cars and buildings. At one point, the hail was so deep it caused multiple vehicles to get stuck, JJ Unger, a volunteer Yuma firefighter, told ABC News Tuesday.

"It was like a blizzard hitting for a half hour because of the hail," Unger said. "That's the longest I've seen it hail like that."

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Unger said he and his fire crew were out spotting for possible tornadoes Monday evening when lightning struck.

"It was very intense," said Unger, adding that he and his crew had to pull over and seek shelter as visibility went to almost zero.

Unger said that when the hail finally let up, a foot of hail was covering his fire engine and roads in the area.

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He said the windshields of his pickup truck and his wife's vehicle were shattered.

"Almost every home in town has broken windows and I've heard that over a thousand cars were damaged," Unger said.

In Nebraska, hail measuring two inches in diameter fell in Dundy County in the southwest corner of the state, according to local emergency management officials. Winds of over 90 mph were also reported.

More than half a foot of rain was recorded in Omaha, Nebraska, on Tuesday, producing major flash flooding in the area.

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