Discovering the Best Places to Visit in Wisconsin

Wisconsin, known as America’s Dairyland, is a state that offers a rich tapestry of natural beauty, vibrant cities, and charming small towns. From the shores of Lake Michigan to the lush forests of the Northwoods, Wisconsin is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, history buffs, and culture lovers. Here’s an extensive guide to some of the best places to visit in Wisconsin.

1. Milwaukee

The Heart of Wisconsin

Milwaukee, Wisconsin’s largest city, is a vibrant metropolis known for its breweries, cultural attractions, and beautiful lakefront.

Key Attractions

Milwaukee Art Museum

The Milwaukee Art Museum is an architectural marvel, with its iconic Quadracci Pavilion designed by Santiago Calatrava. The museum’s collection includes over 25,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces.

Harley-Davidson Museum

Milwaukee is the birthplace of Harley-Davidson, and the Harley-Davidson Museum celebrates this iconic American brand. The museum features a vast collection of motorcycles, interactive exhibits, and historical artifacts that trace the evolution of Harley-Davidson.

Historic Third Ward

The Historic Third Ward is a revitalized warehouse district known for its trendy boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. The area also hosts the Milwaukee Public Market, where visitors can sample local foods and artisanal products.

Summerfest

Milwaukee is home to Summerfest, one of the largest music festivals in the world. Held annually on the shores of Lake Michigan, Summerfest features performances by top musical acts, food vendors, and a variety of entertainment options.

2. Madison

The Capital City

Madison, the state capital, is a vibrant city known for its beautiful lakes, lively cultural scene, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Key Attractions

Wisconsin State Capitol

The Wisconsin State Capitol is an architectural gem, featuring a stunning rotunda and a beautiful observation deck that offers panoramic views of Madison and its lakes. Free guided tours are available to explore the building’s history and architecture.

University of Wisconsin-Madison

The University of Wisconsin-Madison campus is home to several attractions, including the Memorial Union Terrace, where visitors can enjoy outdoor dining and live music with views of Lake Mendota. The university’s Arboretum and Lakeshore Path offer beautiful natural settings for walking and biking.

Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a 16-acre oasis featuring themed gardens, a conservatory, and the stunning Thai Pavilion, a gift from the Thai government. The gardens are a peaceful retreat and a popular spot for photography.

Dane County Farmers' Market

The Dane County Farmers' Market, held on the Capitol Square, is the largest producer-only farmers’ market in the United States. Visitors can browse a wide variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and artisanal products from local vendors.

3. Door County

The Cape Cod of the Midwest

Door County, located on a peninsula between Green Bay and Lake Michigan, is known for its charming small towns, scenic beauty, and outdoor activities.

Key Attractions

Peninsula State Park

Peninsula State Park is one of Wisconsin’s most popular parks, offering stunning views of Green Bay, hiking and biking trails, and a beautiful sandy beach. The park also features the Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, which offers guided tours and historical exhibits.

Fish Creek and Ephraim

Fish Creek and Ephraim are two of Door County’s most picturesque villages, known for their charming shops, galleries, and waterfront views. Fish Creek is home to the historic Peninsula Players Theatre, the oldest professional resident summer theater in the country.

Washington Island

A short ferry ride from the tip of Door County, Washington Island offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful beaches, lavender farms, and the unique Schoolhouse Beach, known for its smooth limestone rocks.

Door County Wineries

Door County is home to several wineries that produce a variety of wines, including fruit wines made from locally grown cherries and apples. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, providing a great way to experience the region’s agricultural heritage.

4. Wisconsin Dells

The Waterpark Capital of the World

Wisconsin Dells is a popular tourist destination known for its numerous waterparks, scenic river views, and family-friendly attractions.

Key Attractions

Noah’s Ark Waterpark

Noah’s Ark Waterpark is the largest waterpark in the United States, featuring over 50 water slides, two wave pools, and a lazy river. The park offers fun and excitement for visitors of all ages.

Wisconsin Ducks Tours

Wisconsin Ducks Tours offer a unique way to explore the scenic beauty of the Wisconsin River and the Dells’ sandstone cliffs. These amphibious vehicles travel on both land and water, providing a fun and informative tour experience.

Mirror Lake State Park

Just a short drive from the Dells, Mirror Lake State Park offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful hiking trails, a pristine lake for kayaking and fishing, and scenic picnic areas.

Tommy Bartlett Show

The Tommy Bartlett Show is a classic Wisconsin Dells attraction, featuring a water-skiing and boat show with thrilling stunts and comedy acts. The show has been entertaining visitors for over 60 years.

5. Lake Geneva

A Luxurious Lakeside Retreat

Lake Geneva, located in southeastern Wisconsin, is known for its beautiful lake, historic mansions, and luxurious resorts.

Key Attractions

Geneva Lake Shore Path

The Geneva Lake Shore Path is a 26-mile trail that circles Geneva Lake, offering stunning views of the water and the historic mansions that line the shore. The path is open to walkers and provides a unique way to experience the area’s beauty.

Black Point Estate

Black Point Estate is a historic mansion built in 1888, offering guided tours that provide a glimpse into the life of wealthy Chicagoans who vacationed in Lake Geneva during the Gilded Age. The estate features beautiful gardens and a stunning view of the lake.

Riviera Beach and Boat Cruises

Riviera Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, located near the heart of downtown Lake Geneva. Several companies offer boat cruises on Geneva Lake, including scenic tours, dinner cruises, and historic narrated tours.

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

For those seeking adventure, Lake Geneva Canopy Tours offers zip-lining through the treetops, as well as hiking and biking trails. The tours provide a thrilling way to experience the natural beauty of the area.

6. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

A Pristine Archipelago in Lake Superior

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located in northern Wisconsin, is a stunning collection of 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland coastline on Lake Superior.

Key Attractions

Sea Caves

The Apostle Islands are famous for their sea caves, which can be explored by kayak in the summer and on foot during the winter when the caves freeze over. The caves feature stunning rock formations and are a must-see for visitors.

Madeline Island

Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands, is accessible by ferry from Bayfield. The island offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and the charming village of La Pointe, which features shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Lighthouses

The Apostle Islands are home to several historic lighthouses, including the Raspberry Island Lighthouse and the Sand Island Lighthouse. Guided tours are available, providing insight into the history and operation of these important navigational aids.

Camping and Hiking

The Apostle Islands offer numerous opportunities for camping and hiking, with designated campsites on many of the islands and a variety of trails that explore the islands’ diverse landscapes. The mainland section of the lakeshore also features beautiful hiking trails, such as the Meyers Beach Sea Caves Trail.

7. Green Bay

Home of the Packers and More

Green Bay, the oldest settlement in Wisconsin, is a city rich in history and culture, best known as the home of the Green Bay Packers.

Key Attractions

Lambeau Field

Lambeau Field, the iconic home of the Green Bay Packers, offers stadium tours, a Packers Hall of Fame, and the opportunity to watch a game at one of the most storied venues in the NFL. The Packers Pro Shop and the 1919 Kitchen & Tap restaurant are also popular stops for visitors.

Green Bay Botanical Garden

The Green Bay Botanical Garden features 47 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens, showcasing a wide variety of plants, flowers, and trees. The garden offers seasonal events, educational programs, and stunning displays throughout the year.

National Railroad Museum

The National Railroad Museum is one of the oldest and largest railroad museums in the country, featuring a vast collection of locomotives, rolling stock, and railroad artifacts. Visitors can explore the museum’s exhibits and take a ride on a vintage train.

Bay Beach Amusement Park

Bay Beach Amusement Park is a family-friendly park located on the shores of Green Bay, offering classic amusement rides, a roller coaster, and a beautiful picnic area. The park’s affordable prices and nostalgic charm make it a favorite destination for families.

8. La Crosse

A Scenic Riverside City

La Crosse, located on the banks of the Mississippi River, is known for its beautiful river views, outdoor activities, and vibrant downtown.

Key Attractions

Grandad Bluff

Grandad Bluff offers stunning panoramic views of La Crosse and the surrounding Mississippi River Valley. The bluff features a scenic overlook, picnic areas, and hiking trails, making it a popular spot for visitors.

Riverside Park

Riverside Park is a beautiful waterfront park located in downtown La Crosse, featuring walking trails, gardens, and scenic views of the Mississippi River. The park is home to several annual events, including Riverfest and Oktoberfest.

Dahl Auto Museum

The Dahl Auto Museum showcases the history of the automobile, with a collection of classic cars, vintage advertisements, and automotive memorabilia. The museum offers a fascinating look at the evolution of the automobile industry.

La Crosse Queen

The La Crosse Queen is an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that offers scenic cruises on the Mississippi River. The cruises provide beautiful views of the river and its wildlife, as well as informative narration about the history and ecology of the area.

9. Devil’s Lake State Park

A Natural Gem in the Baraboo Range

Devil’s Lake State Park, located in south-central Wisconsin, is the state’s largest and most popular state park, known for its stunning cliffs, crystal-clear lake, and diverse recreational opportunities.

Key Attractions

Devil’s Lake

The park’s centerpiece is Devil’s Lake, a beautiful 360-acre lake surrounded by towering quartzite cliffs. The lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing, with several sandy beaches and picnic areas along its shores.

Hiking Trails

Devil’s Lake State Park offers over 29 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs. The East Bluff and West Bluff trails provide spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding landscape, while the Balanced Rock and Devil’s Doorway trails feature unique rock formations.

Rock Climbing

The park’s quartzite cliffs are a popular destination for rock climbers, offering a variety of routes for all skill levels. The park is considered one of the best climbing areas in the Midwest.

Camping

Devil’s Lake State Park offers several campgrounds with a variety of camping options, from rustic sites to modern facilities with electricity and showers. The park’s campgrounds are a great base for exploring the area’s natural beauty.

10. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

A Pristine Archipelago in Lake Superior

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, located in northern Wisconsin, is a stunning collection of 21 islands and 12 miles of mainland coastline on Lake Superior.

Key Attractions

Sea Caves

The Apostle Islands are famous for their sea caves, which can be explored by kayak in the summer and on foot during the winter when the caves freeze over. The caves feature stunning rock formations and are a must-see for visitors.

Madeline Island

Madeline Island, the largest of the Apostle Islands, is accessible by ferry from Bayfield. The island offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and the charming village of La Pointe, which features shops, galleries, and restaurants.

Lighthouses

The Apostle Islands are home to several historic lighthouses, including the Raspberry Island Lighthouse and the Sand Island Lighthouse. Guided tours are available, providing insight into the history and operation of these important navigational aids.

Camping and Hiking

The Apostle Islands offer numerous opportunities for camping and hiking, with designated campsites on many of the islands and a variety of trails that explore the islands’ diverse landscapes. The mainland section of the lakeshore also features beautiful hiking trails, such as the Meyers Beach Sea Caves Trail.