Things to Do in Wisconsin
If you plan a trip to Wisconsin, here are some things you can do. The state is home to many great attractions, from Lake Geneva to the Bookworm Gardens. You can also try plenty of outdoor activities, including hiking the Ice Age Trail or taking a stroll through the Cave of the Mounds. No matter your interests, there is sure to be something in Wisconsin to keep you busy for hours. And once you’ve finished visiting the attractions listed below, you’ll know what to do while you’re there.
Lake Geneva
Ziplining and high ropes courses are two of the most exciting Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, things to do. Zip through nine zip lines, traverse a high ropes course or climb the rock-climbing wall. This adventure is a great way to get an adrenaline rush, and you can even try your hand at a romantic proposal! The adventure is also perfect for photographers, who can take countless pictures of the breathtaking scenery from above.
Big Foot Beach State Park: This natural location has a wide variety of activities, including hiking and biking trails. Most of these trails are wheelchair-accessible and pets are allowed on leash. The lake’s shoreline makes swimming a breeze, and you can even enjoy a day on the beach. Guests of Big Foot Beach State Park should plan to spend the whole day at this park. It’s also wheelchair-accessible, so you’ll have no problem getting around.
The Baker House: This beautiful Queen Anne-style mansion is 17,000 square feet of space and features original tiled fireplaces and inlaid hardwood floors. The architecture is incredibly ornate, but the original architect, Robert H. Baker, didn’t finish the project before he died, so the buildings were purchased as buildings and turned into a restaurant. Today, this historic building is a boutique hotel.
Bookworm Gardens
You should visit the Bookworm Garden in Sheboygan if you have young children. This garden contains over sixty books by famous Wisconsin authors, including Kevin Henkes, Lois Ehlert, and Laura Ingalls Wilder. Its permanent features include a giant sandbox and a library. Visitors can read the books before visiting and take home laminated versions of each title.
Founded in 2007, Bookworm Gardens is a 23.5-acre green space based on children’s books. The gardens are open to the public from May 1 to October 31, and admission is free for members and Sheboygan County residents. The garden also offers a Magic School Bus picnic area, which features a real school bus with colorful wings. Children can sit on the bus, pretend to be the worm, or play in the garden’s interactive areas.
There are plenty of places to visit in the Garden, including a Winnie the Pooh tree house. This fairy tale structure is decorated for the fall with pumpkins. You can also visit the Japanese Tea House and view the surrounding trees from the Magic Tree House. You’ll find Charlotte’s Web Barn and Garden in the back of the garden and the Peter Rabbit area. The Garden is complete with a koi pond.
Ice Age Trail
Head to the Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin for a scenic walk or bike ride through the woods. This National Scenic Trail spans more than 1,200 miles through Wisconsin. In addition to its scenic beauty, it offers visitors a chance to see glaciers up close. Its icy landscape is reminiscent of the Ice Age – a period that lasted a thousand years ago. And the Ice Age Trail is the perfect place to take in some of Wisconsin’s rich heritage.
The Ice Age Trail in Wisconsin is over uneven terrain, so it is highly recommended to wear hiking shoes. While hiking boots are not necessary, they may be helpful. If you plan to spend most of your time on the Trail, consider wearing long pants to prevent scraping and itching on your legs. You should also take precautions against ticks and mosquitoes by wearing long pants. The Trail is also best hiked with a partner to ensure a safe experience for everyone.
Cave of the Mounds
Cave of the Mounds in Wisconsin is a natural limestone cave not far from Blue Mounds. Named for the hills nearby, it’s located on the southern slope of the east hill. The beauty of this cave lies in the mineral formations that line the cave walls. There’s nothing quite like the sight of limestone formations. This Wisconsin cave is a great day trip for families, nature enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys limestone formations.
The cave is more than a million years old and features a six-foot fossil. The cave maintains a temperature of 50 degrees all year. Visitors can hike, bike, or even try gem mining. You can enjoy the history of this natural wonder with the whole family. There are several trails that take you through the cave, and you can enjoy your day while exploring the grounds. You can also learn about Wisconsin’s history by stopping by the museum to take a tour.
Bay Beach Amusement Park
If you’re looking for a fun day out, head to Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Located near the mouth of the Fox River on the east bank, Bay Beach offers an assortment of rides and concessions. It even has a food pavilion and hosts dances, movies, and other events. If you’re a history buff, you can visit the museum and participate in trivia nights.
In 1892, Mitchell Nejedlo opened a small amusement park called Bay View Beach. This was a swimming destination, dance hall, and boat landing, but the roller coaster wasn’t until 1901. Throughout the years, the park added more attractions, including a miniature train. In 1911, the park changed hands and the new owners donated the 10-acre park to the city of Green Bay.
Today, the amusement park features 22 traditional rides, including one of the country’s oldest wooden roller coasters. There’s also a pavilion, seven picnic shelters, and a softball field. Over the past three seasons, it has welcomed more than three million visitors. This popular amusement park has been a local favorite for generations, and in 2017, it celebrated its 125th anniversary. There are just thirteen other amusement parks in the United States with that long of a history.
Interstate State Park
Interstate State Park in Wisconsin contains two separate state parks located on the Minnesota-Wisconsin border. The larger one is in Wisconsin, while the smaller one is in Minnesota. Both parks share the same geologic history but offer various sights. Each requires a Wisconsin State Park vehicle sticker to enter. The park has a variety of hiking trails and scenic overlooks. The park is popular with families and couples alike during the summer months.
Ice Age Interpretive Center: Located in the park, it provides a great way to learn about Wisconsin’s glacial history and what it left behind. The center also features exhibits about the gifts the glacier left behind. Visitors can also take a 20-minute movie about the ice age called “Night of the Sun.” The film is shown daily at 11 a.m., one hour before sunset, and thrice daily.
LaCrosse
Winter in La Crosse, Wisconsin, has plenty to offer visitors. There are plenty of activities to enjoy, and the city’s beautiful landscapes provide a backdrop for plenty of fun activities. If you’re planning a trip to La Crosse during the cold months, be sure to take a look at its 650 miles of snowmobile trails. The city’s quaint downtown area also offers several specialty shops for shopping and dining.
There are many fun things to do in La Crosse, Wisconsin, including the famous Lake Superior, which is located only a few miles away. There’s also an abundance of dining options and attractions, and most of them are located within walking distance of the city center. Although it’s cold year-round, visitors to La Crosse will still have plenty to do while in the area. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or a family trip to Wisconsin Dells, there’s sure to be something to entertain everyone.
The Children’s Museum of La Crosse offers educational experiences for children, including dress-up activities and special events with local historical societies. Guests can also enjoy a movie at Rudy’s Drive-In, which has been open since 1933. Locals and visitors can get their fix of classic films and shows at this popular theater. If visiting La Crosse during the warmer months, try to check out the many restaurants offering delicious grilled meats and fresh vegetables.
Madison
If you’re planning a trip to Wisconsin, you might consider visiting Madison, the state capital, which lies just west of Milwaukee. This isthmus sits between Lake Mendota and Monona and is recognizable for its domed state capitol. You can also check out the Wisconsin Historical Museum, which documents the state’s history. During your trip, you might also want to stroll along the Capital City State Trail, which takes you past the lakefront convention center designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.
One of the things to do in Madison is to visit the Wisconsin Historical Museum, which is run by the Wisconsin Historical Society. The museum has a vintage aesthetic and features displays from various points in the state’s history. You can tour effigy mounds, explore historic buildings, and participate in a variety of water activities. There are also over 10,000 acres of hiking trails in the area, so you can enjoy some peaceful walking or biking during your trip.
Best Places For Sightseeing in Wisconsin
Amid the midwestern U.S., Wisconsin boasts two Great Lakes, coastlines on both. Its largest city, Milwaukee, features the Milwaukee Public Museum, which recreates global villages. Known for Harley-Davidson motorcycles and breweries, Milwaukee is home to several attractions and events. The state’s famous cheese, brews, and beer are also popular among visitors. Listed below are the best places for sightseeing in Wisconsin.
Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
You can visit Apostle Islands National Lakeshore for one day or spend the whole week exploring it. The islands are home to numerous species of wildlife, including many kinds of birds that breed here and neotropical migrants. The area is also important for recreational and commercial fishing, as it contains essential spawning grounds for lake trout. Here, you can find everything you need to know about the islands.
You can also go kayaking on the water, which is the most popular activity in the area. A sea kayak is best suited to Lake Superior conditions. There are outfitters all over the islands where you can hire a kayak. You can choose between two kayaking styles, one for flat water and one for rougher water. You can take your kayaking tour with an outfitter in either Bayfield or Superior City.
Kayaking on Lake Superior is an excellent way to experience the islands. Kayaking on Lake Superior allows you to visit caves, see shipwrecks, and go snorkeling. You can also rent kayaks and explore the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore by kayak. Alternatively, guided kayak tours are available at the Apostle Islands. Guided kayak tours include training, equipment, and a planned excursion.
Cave of the Mounds
If you are searching for a natural limestone cave, you should try visiting Cave of the Mounds in Blue Mounds, Wisconsin. This limestone cave was named for the nearby Blue Mounds hills and is located on the southern slope of the east hill. The cave’s beauty is the result of the unique mineral formations that make it so beautiful. A visit to this Wisconsin tourist attraction is sure to impress you.
The cave’s temperature remains constant at 50 degrees year-round, making it ideal for any season. Other amenities include walking trails, picnic areas, fossil and gem mining, rock gardens, and more. There’s something for everyone, and there are guided tours throughout the year. Groups of 20 or more get discounted rates. If you’re traveling with your family or friends, take a tour of Cave of the Mounds to experience the wonders it holds.
This geological phenomenon was first documented about 500 million years ago. The limestone formations of this area are quite colorful and bright. These formations were formed due to acidic water that eroded the limestone deposits on the surface of the earth. This natural phenomenon caused unique erosion patterns. The cave is home to more than a million fossils, making it an ideal tourist attraction.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
If you’re looking for practical outdoor activities, head to Olbrich Botanical Garden in Madison, Wisconsin. The outdoor gardens feature beautiful landscapes, Midwest-hardy plants, and many other attractions. They’re free to visit. For more exotic plants, visit the Bolz Conservatory, open daily from noon to 6 PM. Visitors can also enjoy the waterfall and bird watching.
The 16-acre outdoor botanical garden features a Thai pavilion, a waterfall, and other tropical plants. In the spring, you’ll find a variety of blooming bulbs and other flowers. Summertime will be bright, with colorful annuals and perennials. In the fall, you’ll find evergreens and a dazzling display of autumnal colors. In the winter, you can take in the tropical-themed Bolz Conservatory, which offers a koi fish pond and waterfall.
While visiting Olbrich Botanical Gardens, make sure to bring water! The botanical garden is great all year round, and there are special events, including Blooming Butterflies. Visitors should bring plenty of water since the temperature can get warmer than they might be prepared for. There are many art installations and other events that you can attend. You can even hold a wedding or other events here. The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is one of the best venues for community gatherings regardless of age. You can also visit Olbrich Botanical Gardens for free or a minimal fee. In the winter, you can even see a variety of small animals. And, you can even rent a beautiful venue for an outdoor event here.
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary
There are many things to do in Green Bay, the third largest city in Wisconsin. It’s home to the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame, Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary, and Greenbay Botanical Garden. If you’re traveling with children, don’t miss the Children’s Museum of Green Bay, National Railroad Museum, or NEW Zoo & Adventure Park. These attractions are sure to entertain and delight your kids.
Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary is a 600-acre urban wildlife refuge that offers hiking trails, educational displays, and live animal exhibits. The park is also home to the second largest wildlife rehabilitation program in Wisconsin, and boasts over four thousand animals. A visit here will educate and inspire visitors to protect the natural landscapes in which we live. There are educational displays, a gift shop, and lodging options. Visitors can also take a wildlife education class or tour a habitat that houses endangered species.
The Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary has three exhibit levels and a gift shop. The wildlife sanctuary is open year-round and offers a wide variety of programs for children of all ages. There is a wolf and deer habitat, a lookout tower, waterfalls, and a floating boardwalk. Visitors can also enjoy the Duck Shack, where they can feed corn to waterfowl. Visitors can also participate in a wildlife rehabilitation program and observe wildlife up close.
Pabst Mansion
In Milwaukee, Wisconsin, you can tour the grand Pabst Mansion. This historic house was built in 1892 for Captain Frederick Pabst, founder of the Pabst Brewing Company. The mansion was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1975. It is now a historic house museum. You can enjoy guided tours of the house and learn about its history. If you visit Milwaukee, be sure to explore Pabst Mansion, one of the best sightseeing destinations in the entire country.
The former home of Captain Frederick Pabst, the famous beer brewer, is now a National Register of Historic Homes. This impressive mansion has 37 rooms, twelve bathrooms, and fourteen fireplaces. It is also home to the Pabst Brewing Co. and was once a palatial summer home for the upper classes. Today, it is home to the Milwaukee House Museum. If you’re in the area, visit Pabst Mansion, the most beautiful house in Wisconsin.
The mansion was closed last summer but reopened in mid-April. In the summer, it was so busy that visitors were turned away. Pabst Mansion offers self-guided tours at noon to make it more convenient for tourists. And since the mansion is still undergoing restoration, you can even take Spanish language tours. Besides, you can also visit the mansion’s summer beer garden.
Bayfield
If you’re traveling to Wisconsin, you should spend time in Bayfield. The city is the smallest in the state and has just 487 residents. You can’t miss out on all the beautiful sites this town offers! There are plenty of things to do in Bayfield, and you won’t be disappointed with the quality of the area’s attractions. Read on for some of the best things to do in Bayfield.
If you’re looking for great scenic spots, Bayfield is the place to visit. The Bayfield Maritime Museum and the Apostle Islands are two popular attractions. For a more active day, kayaking is also a fun activity in Bayfield. If you’re looking for a more adventurous trip, you can also go scuba diving or go for a hike on Big Bay State Park. Bayfield is also home to several apple orchards. The town is also known as the berry capital of Wisconsin, so make sure to check out the Bayfield Apple Festival.
Another attraction to check out in Bayfield is the Bayfield Museum. This nonprofit organization is located in the town’s metro area. On top of the museum’s local history exhibits, it also hosts monthly programs. In addition, you can check out the seven-pond winery and get a taste of its wines. You can take a yoga class to get in touch with your creative side!
Lake Minocqua
Lake Minocqua is a natural drainage lake in northern Oneida County, Wisconsin. It covers an area of 1360 acres, has an average depth of 23 feet, and is as deep as 60 feet. Many people visit the lake to enjoy its beauty and fishing and other water sports. But even if you don’t want to get wet, Lake Minocqua is still a fantastic destination.
The city of Minocqua is nestled among serene forests and glass-surfaced lakes, making it an ideal place to visit in any season. It’s also surrounded by the Great River Road, which stretches 2,000 miles from Minnesota to Louisiana. Those in the area should spend at least a day here to enjoy the lake. A visit to the Wisconsin-Michigan border is not complete without a trip on the Great River Road.
While you’re in the area, be sure to check out the bald eagles. They’re a common sight around Minocqua, and the bald eagles’ nests are easy to spot. These magnificent birds weigh hundreds of pounds and can be found in nests as large as four to five feet in diameter. Another exciting attraction in the town is the bald eagle coin, which celebrates the success of Dr. Kate Newcomb’s effort to raise funds for a local hospital. The community responded with enthusiasm and 1.7 million pennies were collected in 1953.
Top 5 Places to Visit in Wisconsin
If you’re interested in a family-friendly day trip, the farm is one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin. There are so many different activities to try out here. From corn mazes to pumpkin slingshots, you’ll be spoilt for choice. This is one place where children will not grow tired of exploring. The farm’s haystacks and tractors are perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Old World Wisconsin
Old World Wisconsin is an open-air museum in Waukesha County, Wisconsin. This attraction portrays life for 19th-century Wisconsin settlers in separate areas. Visitors can also explore the history of Wisconsin’s first state capital, Madison, and learn about the state’s history through its diverse ethnic groups. You’ll learn about the local people and their daily lives in a hands-on fashion. The museum’s extensive collection of historical items and displays is worth a visit, so schedule a tour!
The Wisconsin Historical Society is excited about the new Brewhouse at Old World Wisconsin, which is part of a $5.5 million project. This is only the first two phases of a multi-year master plan. The society also works to reinvent the Welcome Experience. To make your Old World Wisconsin experience even more special, take advantage of the free admissions to the historic sites and discounted tickets to special events. It will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time, but in a fun and educational way.
Cave of the Mounds
One of the natural limestone caves in Wisconsin is the Cave of the Mounds. Located in the southern part of the east hill, it’s named after the Blue Mounds hills nearby. This unique cave is characterized by its stunning mineral formations. The cave is open to the public, and admission is free. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat or a spectacular view of Wisconsin, the Cave of the Mounds is definitely worth the visit.
The site is well-known for its formations, including the “Fourth Dimension,” a massive carved formation in limestone rock. The cave has an incredible amount of mineral deposits that can add up to an inch over a century or even a millennium. The cave is considered a National Natural Landmark, meaning it is protected. Its caves are open to the public, but a guided tour is recommended.
House on a Rock
If you’re looking for a fun day in Wisconsin, look no further than the House on a Rock, a unique tourist attraction that opened in 1959. The housing complex features architecturally distinct rooms, streets, gardens, and shops. Designed by architect Alex Jordan Jr., the house was named after Alex Jordan’s great-grandmother. For more information, visit the House on a Rock website. It offers information on the building’s history and a virtual tour.
House on a Rock is a Wisconsin tourist destination and featured in the novel “American Gods” by Neil Gaiman. Visitors can experience the “portal” that the House on a Rock serves as, and get up close to a 200-foot sea creature. Other attractions include a massive model of the Titanic and a miniature Japanese garden. There’s also an automated music machine and a million-piece model circus.
The House on a Rock is about 40 miles from Madison, 60 miles from the Wisconsin Dells, and 125 miles from Milwaukee and Kenosha. Getting here is convenient, as the property has a huge parking lot and is close enough to Chicago to allow for convenient travel. However, it is not wheelchair accessible, so if you plan on taking the car, don’t forget it! If you’re looking for a unique experience, House on a Rock is the place to go!
Swing Park
There are many things to do in Milwaukee, but one place stands out among the rest: Swing Park. The park has eight swings, including a tire swing above a sandbox. The park also has several sitting areas, making it the perfect place for deep talks. Here are the other reasons to visit Swing Park in Milwaukee:
The park has a soft sand floor and benches for sitting. It is also close to a popular bridge. Other unusual attractions in Wisconsin include the Mars Cheese Castle, which was originally a gas station. Today, the attraction hosts an air show attracting half a million visitors from 80 countries each year. Swing Park is a great place to take the whole family. You can also visit the State Capitol in Madison, Wisconsin. This building was completed in 1917 and is the tallest building in the city. The capitol houses the office of the governor, state Supreme Court, and legislature.
Another attraction in Wisconsin is the Cave of the Mounds. This limestone cave has been a National Natural Landmark since 1987 and is a stunning place to see. The exhibits inside feature colorful speleothems, and formations created by mineral deposits. A visit to this attraction is not complete without taking in the view of the surrounding area. The museum is also open to the public throughout the summer.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
The Olbrich Botanical Gardens is an outdoor, 16-acre garden with a 10,000-square-foot conservatory. Founded in 1952, the gardens are owned by the Olbrich Botanical Society and the City of Madison Parks. Visitors to Olbrich Botanical Gardens are sure to enjoy the stunning, beautiful, and varied displays. Whether looking for a place to spend an afternoon or a full day, this Wisconsin attraction is a must-visit.
The gardens are free to visit and include many tropical plants, birds, and koi ponds. During the warmer months, the gardens offer a beer garden where visitors can sip a cold one. Visitors can also browse through a horticultural library and enjoy a meal in the cafe or shop. The Olbrich Botanical Center also features a gift shop, a horticultural library, and meeting rooms.
The Olbrich Botanical Gardens are located on the north shore of Lake Monona, 5 miles east of downtown Madison. This beautiful place is full of spring, summer, and fall flowers. Visitors can visit the Bolz Conservatory in winter and admire its exquisite tropical plants, birds, and waterfalls. The cost of admission is $6 for non-members and free for members.
Waterpark resorts
When visiting Wisconsin, you can take advantage of one of several waterpark resorts. The largest indoor waterpark in Wisconsin, the Kalahari Resort and Conventions, boasts 125,000 square feet of thrilling rides, slides, and lazy rivers. This resort offers several amenities for families, including a whirlpool spa, children’s workshops, and a full kitchen. There are also accommodations for guests who want to enjoy a quiet evening in the hotel.
One of the best places to stay when visiting Wisconsin is a waterpark resort. The Metropolis Resort is a family-friendly resort that offers a variety of exciting rides. The AmericInn Riverfront Resort is another excellent place to stay, as it boasts a conference center and a water park filled with thrilling rides for kids. You can also find great value at this resort, as it is within walking distance of several popular attractions in the Wisconsin Dells.
The leading companies, including Central Group Companies, specialize in hotel waterparks. These businesses face unique challenges and opportunities. Managing a large number of people in a short period is a top priority. Waterparks also present some unexpected marketing opportunities. The hotelier’s support for the concept is significant, and he has high hopes for the new waterparks in Wisconsin. It’s an excellent investment for the local economy.
Small towns
The state of Wisconsin is the twentieth most populous in the country and joined the Union in 1848. It is known as America’s Dairyland, mainly due to its cheese production. It also has a rich history, home to several different ethnic groups throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. While most of the state’s residents live in one of the state’s large cities, there are still plenty of small towns worth visiting. Whether you want to explore the state’s rich history or simply enjoy its natural landscapes, there are plenty of places to visit in this state.
Whether you are looking for an authentic experience of old-world America, a peaceful environment, or an opportunity to experience Wisconsin’s unique culture and hospitality, there is a town for you. There are historic sites and preserved town squares throughout Wisconsin, making these destinations perfect for vacations or day trips. Moreover, small towns offer a more affordable price and parking space, which are often hard to find in larger cities. The state also has some beautiful natural landscapes, which you may not find in larger cities.
Historic landmarks
While traveling in Wisconsin, don’t overlook the opportunity to explore the state’s history. The state’s newest National Historic Landmark is the State Capitol building. You can see how one man’s dream came true by visiting the Wisconsin State Capitol building and its original shack. In addition to these historic sites, Wisconsin is also home to the infamous Ringling Brothers circus, founded in 1884. Several of the buildings from this era still stand today.
For a glimpse into the history of the state, visit the Wisconsin State Capitol, which is free to tour and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2001. If you’re in the area during the 1800s, make sure to stop by the Governor’s Mansion, a beautiful Southern Classical Revival home which has served as the home to Wisconsin governors since 1949. The Governor’s Mansion is only open to the public seasonally.
If you’re a sports fan, don’t miss the University of Wisconsin, also known as UW-Madison. Built in 1848, the university is spread out across two campuses. The main campus covers 933 acres (377 ha), while the other covers nearly 1200 acres (486 ha). In 1866, the university became a land-grant institution and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2021. The University is organized into 20 colleges and schools, offering 136 undergraduate majors, 148 master’s degrees, and 120 doctorate programs. UW-Madison is the largest employer in the state.
