visit wisconsin in july

The 10 Best Things To Do In Wisconsin In July, 2024

Sara Heddleston

Hailing from the Midwest, Sara is a travel enthusiast and digital marketer that loves to experience new hidden gems throughout the country. Her passion is creating a place for people to discover both actionable and aspirational things to do in their very own backyard.

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Pros of Visiting Wisconsin In July

Cons of visiting wisconsin in july, wisconsin weather in july, top wisconsin attractions in july, top wisconsin events in july.

Summer is for spending time on a boat or at the beach and – with access to the Great Lakes (and 15,0000 small lakes) – Wisconsin has a lot of water to enjoy! It’s one of those states that get overlooked for summertime fun, but not anymore. …oh, and did we mention that it’s also the waterpark capital of the world and it hosts one of the largest music festivals in the world?

There is so much to love about Wisconsin in the summer! Beautiful attractions and July festivals in WI are bound to make our state your favorite place to be!

July is going to be the hottest month in Wisconsin, but if you make sure to enjoy the lakes and coastline (and always hydrate), you’ll be just fine. It’s still worth it to experience all the exciting things to do in July in WI.

July weather in WI has plenty of heat but isn’t too extreme. The daily high temperatures will be around 80°F, and the month is typically a little drier than June. There will be plenty of opportunities to go outdoors and enjoy this great state.

At the Not Your Average Bucket List travel podcast by OnlyInYourState, we are dedicating ourselves to finding the best things to do and see each and every month in the state of Wisconsin. With so many great things to do (especially in the summer), it will be hard to cover them all. So, if we missed something good…let us know! You can call or text 805-298-1420 and tell us what we need to know (or reach out to us via email at [email protected] ).

So, are you ready to dive into a month full of exciting things in Wisconsin? First, if you want to listen to the episode, make sure to check it out on Spotify:

Watch our hosts Sara and Marisa break everything down on YouTube!

1. Wisconsin Dells (Wisconsin Dells)

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Wisconsin Dells, WI, USA Rebecca Nelson / Moment via Getty Images Although this town is both a popular destination for tourists and locals, the Wisconsin Dells is still definitely worth a visit during the month of July. You can experience thrilling water parks, take scenic boat tours along the Wisconsin River, and explore the unique rock formations we are so fond of. Plus, there are over 20 indoor and outdoor waterparks in the area alone... so it's the perfect place to keep the whole family busy! 2. House on the Rock (Spring Green)

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 2. House on the Rock (Spring Green) " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> The House on the Rock, 5754 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588, USA The House on the Rock If you're traveling through the state this summer and want a fun pit stop where you can embark on a mind-bending journey, then plan a visit to the House on the Rock. If you've never seen it for yourself, this extraordinary attraction is a feast for the senses, with its eclectic collection of art, antiques, and oddities. Explore vast, immersive exhibits that defy imagination, marvel at the architectural wonders, and be prepared for an experience unlike any other as you step into a world of wonder and whimsy. You'll never forget it! Advertisement 3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (Bayfield, multiple locations)

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 3. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore (Bayfield, multiple locations) " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Apostle Islands, Wisconsin, USA Posnov / Moment via Getty Images The Apostle Islands aren't little-known or a hidden gem, but they are worth a visit during the month of July if you're looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of the cities and just want to enjoy some peaceful adventures in the state! Your plans can involve a scenic cruise between the islands, a gorgeous hiking trip, spending time on sandy beaches, or kayaking around the islands themselves. The options are nearly endless. Advertisement 4. Enjoy the waterparks throughout the state

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 4. Enjoy the waterparks throughout the state " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Tundra Lodge, 865 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304, USA Nicole H/TripAdvisor There are so many waterparks in Wisconsin to choose from, so you might as well pick one and dive into fun and excitement! Nothing sounds better than beating the heat with thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, wave pools, and splash pads. You'll have so many options for water wonderlands in Wisconsin! 5. Dine at Wisconsin Supper Clubs with epic lake views

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 5. Dine at Wisconsin Supper Clubs with epic lake views " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Ishnala Supper Club, S2011 Ishnala Rd, Lake Delton, WI 53940, USA Ishnala Wisconsin supper clubs are iconic in our culture for a reason. Have you ever made a trip to supper clubs with a view? Get out your phone to make a reservation for this month, because each of these spots has to-die-for food with awesome patios or lakeside dining: Ishnala - Wisconsin Dells Blanck’s Lake Aire Supper Club - Fond du Lac Silvercryst Supper Club - Wautoma The Copper Dock - Hubertus Gib’s on the Lake - Kewaunee Donny’s Glidden Lodge - Sturgeon Bay Maiden Lake Supper Club - Mountain Pinewood Supper Club - Mosinee Sunset Bay Supper Club - Phillips Related Stories

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6. summerfest (milwaukee) - july 4th to july 6th.

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 6. Summerfest (Milwaukee) - July 4th to July 6th " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Henry Maier Festival Park by Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., 200 N Harbor Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202, USA Summerfest/Facebook One of the best summer festivals in WI takes place in Milwaukee. Summerfest is an annual music festival held in downtown Milwaukee and it is one of the biggest music festivals in the world! It spans multiple days and various music genres, so take a trip to the city if you want to enjoy live performances by renowned artists, indulge in delicious food, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. 7. Country Jam USA (Eau Claire) - July 18th to July 20th

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 7. Country Jam USA (Eau Claire) - July 18th to July 20th " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Country Jam USA Festival Grounds, 1662 Co Rd T, Eau Claire, WI 54703, USA Country Jam USA/Facebook Get ready for an unforgettable country music extravaganza at Country Jam USA in Eau Claire ! With an incredible lineup of top-notch artists, energetic performances, and a vibrant festival atmosphere, this event promises non-stop fun and entertainment. And the fun doesn't stop after the performances, as you can join fellow country music fans and camp on the grounds of the festival. 8. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (Oshkosh) - July 22nd to July 28th

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 8. EAA AirVenture Oshkosh (Oshkosh) - July 22nd to July 28th " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Wittman Regional Airport, 525 W 20th Ave, Oshkosh, WI 54902, USA EAA - The Spirit of Aviation/Facebook Known as the "World's Greatest Aviation Celebration," the EAA AirVenture takes place in Oshkosh each year. Aviation enthusiasts can enjoy breathtaking air shows, explore a vast display of aircraft, attend educational workshops, and experience aviation-related activities. The entire family will love it (and your kids will never forget it). If you want more EAA, you can also check out the EAA Museum. Advertisement 9. Art Fair on the Square ( Madison ) - July 13th to July 14th

" data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> 9. Art Fair on the Square ( Madison ) - July 13th to July 14th " data-pin-url="https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/wisconsin/things-to-do-july-wi/" /> Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, 227 State St, Madison, WI 53703, USA Madison Museum of Contemporary Art/Facebook Organized by the Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, the Art Fair on the Square is an incredible event showcasing a wide range of art forms from various artists. The fair attracts creatives and artists from across the country, offering visitors the opportunity to browse and purchase unique artwork, jewelry, ceramics, and more. With its mix of music, entertainment, and outdoor dining, as well as over 500 artists and their exhibits, there's plenty to explore in Madison’s Capitol Square. 10. Lumberjack World Championships (Hayward) - July 31st to August 3

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Summer in wisconsin.

What are the best beaches in Wisconsin?

The best beaches in Wisconsin are some of the prettiest places anywhere in the state. Whether you're looking for a getaway that will make your day bright and sunny or you're looking for a home by the shore, these beaches will soon become your favorite places in Wisconsin.

• Neshotah Beach in Two Rivers
• Schoolhouse Beach on Washington Island
• Julian Bay Beach on Stockton Island
• Point Beach in Two Rivers
• Lake Wazee in Jackson County
• Rock Island State Park in Washington
• Whitefish Dunes State Park in Sturgeon Bay
• Ephraim in Door County
• North Point Beach in Racine
• Kohler-Andrae State Park in Sheboygan
• Big Bay Beach in La Pointe

What are the best day trips in Wisconsin?

The best day trips in Wisconsin feature something for every taste. Whether you like the great outdoors or shopping on a charming main street in a small town, there is a place for you to enjoy here! Have a fun getaway in only one day in any of these great destinations.

• Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin
• Holler House in Milwaukee
• Vino in the Valley in Maiden Rock
• Cress Springs Bakery in Blue Mounds
• Wisconsin Cheese Trail in South Wayne
• Dane County Farmers' Market in Madison's Capitol Square
• New Glarus, Wisconsin
• The Elegant Farmer in Mukwonago
• Witch's Gulch in Dell Prairie
• Spring Green, Wisconsin
• Kenosha and Racine
• Mineral Point
• The Great River Road
• Beaver Creek Nature Reserve
• Ehler's General Store in Cornucopia
• Princeton, Wisconsin

What are the best small towns in Wisconsin?

The best small towns in Wisconsin are full of fun things to do! Especially in the summer, there are lots of people out and about and plenty of unique activities for all ages to enjoy.

• Alma, Wisconsin
• Wild Rose, Wisconsin
• Wauzeka, Wisconsin
• Green Lake, Wisconsin
• Junction City, Wisconsin
• Mellen, Wisconsin
• Potosi, Wisconsin
• Sister Bay, Wisconsin
• Oxford, Wisconsin
• Neosho, Wisconsin

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23 Top Things to Do in Wisconsin

The Badger State's charming small towns, thriving farm-to-table movement and rich brewing heritage guarantee quality vacations for all types of travelers.

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Become a Cheesehead by exploring all that Wisconsin has to offer.

America's Dairy State may not be on everyone's vacation radar, but the state boasts pristine state parks, iconic architecture and rich culinary traditions supplemented by craft beer and farm-to-table experiences. Also, of course, its residents are famous for their Midwestern hospitability. America's Dairyland is well worth the trip for weekend getaways or week-long vacations. It's no exaggeration to claim Wisconsin offers something for every type of traveler – world-class art for culture enthusiasts, metropolitan food tours for foodies, numerous waterparks for families and relaxing scenery for outdoors lovers, including rolling hills, lush farmland, forests and lakes. Read on to explore the top things to do in Wisconsin. (Note: Some tours and excursions may be affected by the COVID-19 outbreak. New policies may be in place, including capacity restrictions and parking reservation requirements. Check with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Department of State and local tourism boards before traveling.)

Located on Lake Michigan, the largest lake in the United States, Milwaukee is easy to explore; everything seems to be only a 5-minute drive away. Known as Brew City and home to the Milwaukee Brewers baseball team, no trip to Milwaukee is complete without tasting its beer heritage. With more than 200 breweries, there are brewery tours for every palette, from micro to macro and fruit beers to pale ales. Winters in Milwaukee can be harsh and long, so the most popular time to visit is in the summer months or fall. Summer is high season, with a multitude of neighborhood festivals, outdoor concerts and ethnic celebrations, like German Fest in July, honoring the city's largest immigrant group. Summer excitement reaches its peak at the end of June with Summerfest, a massive and affordable music festival.

[See more of Milwaukee: Things to Do | Hotels | Photos ]

Get cultured at the Milwaukee Museum Campus

Looking for family-friendly activities in Milwaukee? Head toward the city's lakefront museum campus to Discovery World, Milwaukee's world-class science museum. If you have littler ones, stroll across the street to the Betty Brinn Children's Museum. Just north of Discovery World is the architecturally impressive Milwaukee Art Museum , a modern masterpiece designed by Santiago Calatrava. Time your visit to witness the spectacle of the building's wings (large movable sunscreens) opening and closing at 10 a.m., noon or closing time. If you want to feel like you're actually sleeping in an art museum, book a room at Saint Kate – The Arts Hotel, which is located in the heart of downtown. Guests delight in the art exhibits on display throughout the hotel and applaud the in-room vintage record players. If you enjoy a martini with a view, consider the Blu lounge at the historic Pfister Hotel , offering panoramic views, cocktails and more from the 23rd floor.

Harley-Davidson Museum

Courtesy of Harley-Davidson Museum

Milwaukee's also home to a very different kind of museum. The motorcycle was invented in 1903 by Milwaukee residents William S. Harley and Arthur Davidson. Learn all about the machine that came to symbolize the freedom of America and the open road at the Harley-Davidson Museum . Motorcycle enthusiasts will be in hog heaven when they enter this modern steel-and-glass museum. These hallowed halls house a permanent collection of hundreds of bikes, including the first motorcycles built and Elvis Presley's custom bike.

Address: 400 W. Canal St., Milwaukee, WI 53201

Visit the University of Wisconsin

Home to the main campus of the University of Wisconsin and its lovable mascot Bucky the Badger, Madison is more than just a cool college town. Activists and incoming college students appreciate that Madison, about 80 miles east of Milwaukee, has been the scene of many a protest, whether against the Vietnam War or in favor of marijuana legalization. What's more, the University of Wisconsin – Madison Memorial Union on the shores of Lake Mendota is a favorite for students and locals; grab a brat and brew and enjoy the view. The 72-room Graduate Madison is an easy walk to campus, dining, shopping and nightlife. Badger red is the hotel's unifying color palette, and guests give the hotel high marks for its nostalgic decor and artwork, including collages of political buttons, a nod to the town's legacy of social activism.

Address: 800 Langdon St., Madison, WI 53703

No trip to Madison is complete without visiting the beautiful, white-domed Wisconsin State Capitol building. Free tours of the building are given daily. What's more, Madison's isthmus location on a narrow strip of land between two lakes means waterfront biking and hiking trails abound. It's one of a handful of U.S. towns to earn a Platinum designation from The League of American Bicyclists as a bicycle-friendly community, so purchasing a $15 24-hour bike-share pass is a great way to explore the city.

[See more of Madison: Things to Do | Hotels | When to Visit | Photos ]

Try the cheese

Wisconsinites are lovingly referred to as Cheeseheads. If you're looking to experience more than just the squeaky cheese curds the state is famous for, visitors recommend stopping by the Fromagination cheese store for its ambiance, multitude of options and generous samples. Billing itself as the capital of cheese, this shop is a must-see for cheese lovers, featuring dozens of one-of-a-kind artisanal Wisconsin varieties. And if you're in Madison on a Saturday morning between April and November, mosey over to the Capitol building to shop. The Dane County Farmers' Market is the country's largest producer-only farmers market, a great way to take yourself on a food tour of the finest Wisconsin farmers have to offer.

Lake Geneva

Located near the Wisconsin-Illinois border, 7 miles north of the border and about 50 miles southeast of Milwaukee, Lake Geneva is popular for weekend getaways, with visitors describing it as the "Newport of the Midwest" for its opulent lakefront mansions. You can glimpse that luxurious lifestyle while walking the Geneva Lakeshore Path, a 25-mile walkway that circles the lake, bringing you through the backyards of opulent estates. Circling the entire lake would take all day, but you can pick a section and go for a jog or a stroll. Keep in mind that the path is not suited for strollers or bikes. Being home or second home to many of the Midwest's elite, the town is filled with great restaurants, shops and fun-filled activities throughout the year. Tourists descend on Lake Geneva during the summer season to rent boats, but fall and spring are also magnificent for weekend getaways. A warm-weather visit calls for a stay at The Abbey Resort, the only lodging directly on the shores of Lake Geneva.

Spend a winter weekend at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is one of the best choices for a winter visit to Lake Geneva, with a bevy of amenities and a modest ski hill. The resort's hill is decidedly not the Rocky Mountains, but there are three chair lifts, two carpet lifts, 20 runs and a terrain park. After a day on the slopes, skiers like to warm up with a hot toddy around the outdoor fire pit at the resort's Embers Terrace. Kids can dive into the fun at Grand Geneva's Timber Ridge Lodge & Waterpark while the adults chill out in the resort's world-class spa. Regardless of where you stay, winter in Lake Geneva means it's time for their annual one-of-a-kind Winterfest, one of the country's largest ice sculpture festivals.

Address: 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, WI 53147

Door County

With more than 300 miles of shoreline to enjoy, visitors have long flocked to Wisconsin's peninsula, known as Door County, for weekend getaways. Being a peninsula in the Great Lakes, the area's 11 lighthouses play a big part in Door County's history. Visitors recommend Door County Trolley's lighthouse tour, describing it as entertaining and informative. Stop by the Door County Maritime Museum to dive deeper into lighthouse lore. Nature lovers and culture enthusiasts will also find plenty to keep them busy in Door County's charming villages. They can visit any of the area's more than one hundred art galleries and studios, sample the region's famous cherries and cheese, and explore Door County's eight wineries. Summer is the busiest season, and events like the annual Door County Plein Air Festival every July, when artists try to capture the summer light on the area's water and fields, make every stay unique.

Door County fish boil

Courtesy of Destination Door County

New Englanders have their clambakes. The closest thing to that in the Midwest is the Door County fish boil, a one-of-a-kind culinary spectacle. It's one of the top things to do in this peninsula. A Scandinavian tradition, fish boils are a way of cooking fish in a large cooking pot over an open fire. Part of the experience is coming early, sitting around the fire and watching the hour-long cooking process, led by a Boil Master who serves as both chef and entertainer. When the food is almost ready, the Boil Master alerts diners that the "boil-over" is about to begin. Kerosene is then thrown onto the fire, making for a fiery finish. Fish boils traditionally include potatoes, coleslaw and classic Door County cherry pie for dessert. Though restaurants from the southernmost Sturgeon Bay to the north tip of the peninsula offer up these unique dinners, visitors give the White Gull Inn some of the best reviews.

Explore the surrounding state parks

Biking and hiking Whitefish Dunes State Park and Potawatomi State Park are some of the top outdoor activities in Door County. Kayaking the Lake Michigan lakefront, where you can explore the caves and coves and view the shore scenery that can only be seen from the water, is another favorite outdoor activity. Door County Kayak Tours gets high ratings for their friendly, informative guides. When the weather is warm enough, travelers can camp at the area's state park to save some time and be best prepared to catch a sunrise over Lake Michigan.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin

Courtesy of Taliesin Preservation

Architecture buffs will delight in the Frank Lloyd Wright Visitor Center and Taliesin, an 800-acre estate set amidst rolling hills overlooking the Wisconsin River. Wright is widely revered as America's greatest architect and the founder of the Prairie-style school of architecture. He built Taliesin in 1911. Taliesin is his Prairie-style, minimalist masterpiece, a must-see for architecture and design enthusiasts. Taliesin Preservation manages the grounds and offers six touring options of the estate, along with other arts and cultural programming and special events like a farm dinner series, biking tour and Winter Festival tours.

Address: 5607 County Road C, Spring Green, WI 53588

The House on the Rock

Frank Lloyd Wright is known as the master of minimalism, but Spring Green's other architectural marvel is definitely not understated. Yet plenty of visitors delight in the one-of-a-kind roadside spectacle known as The House on the Rock. Built in 1960 by Alex Jordan, this massive home now houses his eclectic collection of everything from suits of armor to ivory carvings. It's also home to the world's largest indoor carousel. The House on the Rock is not for everyone. Some visitors describe it as a Midwestern jewel and incredible journey, while others find it overstimulating and claustrophobic.

Address: 5754 State Road 23, Spring Green, WI 53588

Explore Spring Green

A Spring Green restaurant well worth visiting for architecture buffs is Last Leaf Public House. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this more than 100-year-old building features painstakingly preserved original light fixtures, doors and other features from when it was the State Bank of Spring Green. You can even reserve a table inside what used to be the bank's vault. Those who aren't architecture enthusiasts will still have reason to visit Spring Green. Spring Green's internationally respected American Players Theatre entices theater lovers with outdoor summer stagings of Shakespeare and other classics. Theatergoers bring their picnic baskets for a theatrical evening under the stars in Spring Green's massive 1,147-seat outdoor amphitheater.

Courtesy of Let's Minocqua Visitors Bureau + Chamber of Commerce

Pure Americana is served up in central Wisconsin's Minocqua; the town offers everything from the fudge and ice cream shops to the popular screen-door cottages families love to rent. Guests appreciate the old-school lake vacation experience they get in the condos, cottages and cabins of The Beacons of Minocqua. Experience classic local dining by going to what Wisconsinites call a supper club. Get a taste for this classic culinary tradition at Little Bohemia Lodge in the nearby town of Manitowish Waters. Diners rave about the generous portions and highly recommend the German pork schnitzel and spaetzle noodles. Besides the authentic cuisine, guests will appreciate that meals come with a side of history. Little Bohemia Lodge was the site of a 1934 shootout between John Dillinger and the FBI. You can even see the bullet holes that remain in one of the windows.

Min-Aqua Bats

The one-of-a-kind Min-Aqua Bats have been entertaining crowds in Minocqua with their first-rate water-ski show since 1950. Visitors praise the mostly local teenagers who participate for mastering some incredible tricks and keeping a beloved tradition alive. Catch this not-to-be-missed free show on Sunday, Wednesday or Friday. Fred Scheer's Lumberjack Shows make for another fun, unique family outing in Minocqua. Young men show off their sawing skills and log-rolling agility while including plenty of comic moments for laughs.

Address: 400 W. Park Ave., Minocqua, WI 54548

Wisconsin Dells

Wisconsin Dells is home to the most indoor and outdoor water parks in the world – more than 20 different parks. If traveling to the self-proclaimed "Waterpark Capital of the World" with kids, stay at one of the top resorts for easy access to amenities. In addition to its water parks, the Wisconsin Dells offer a wide variety of kid-friendly entertainment options, from mini-golf to indoor amusement parks. Visitors point to the Palace Theater as a great night out, applauding the talent and production value of the concerts, comedy shows, plays for children and Broadway-style productions. Another fun venue is the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater, which guests praise for funny bits and impressive illusions. Want to escape the indoor attractions for a natural one? Head over to Mirror Lake State Park for a scenic hike along a tranquil lake surrounded by sandstone bluffs. Pontoon boats, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are also available to rent.

[Read: The Top Things to Do in Wisconsin Dells .]

Courtesy of Visit Eau Claire

In the heart of northwestern Wisconsin's Chippewa Valley, Eau Claire is perfect for weekend getaways, with both outdoor activities as well as a thriving downtown scene of arts and brewing. The city has a lively music scene, with summer festivals focusing on jazz, rock and country music. Visitors will also discover a robust farm-to-table movement in this fertile section of America's heartland. The Eau Claire Downtown Farmers Market welcomes shoppers May through October every Saturday morning. This being Wisconsin, Eau Claire houses a handful of craft breweries, including The Brewing Projekt, where you can order up a flight of creative beer flavors in a hip, loft-like setting. The Oxbow Hotel's accommodations are inspired by the town's hip, artsy feel with a stylish design featuring exposed brick, regional artwork and a turntable in every room.

Chippewa River State Trail

One natural feature that makes Eau Claire truly special is that it's at the confluence of the Chippewa and Eau Claire rivers. The two rivers provide plenty of outdoor opportunities, from fishing and swimming to kayaking and tubing. The 30-mile Chippewa River State Trail takes full advantage of the city's riverfront location and provides an option for walkers and endurance athletes. Starting in downtown Eau Claire's Phoenix Park, the trail runs along the Chippewa River through prairies, sandstone bluffs and wetlands.

Elkhart Lake

Generations of Midwesterners have enjoyed weekend getaways to the crystal-clear waters of this town, about 60 miles north of Milwaukee. Rent your own boat and water ski on Elkhart Lake or hit the nearby Kettle Moraine State Park trails. You could spend an entire weekend quietly hiking or biking along the country roads, but Elkhart Lake also has a racier side. It is home to Road America, a racetrack hosting NASCAR races, vintage car events and specialized driving schools. Things get particularly revved up on Wednesday nights with live music and dancing at Siebkens Resort's Stop-Inn Tavern. The Osthoff Resort is the grande dame of Elkhart Lake with fine dining, a French cooking school and an award-winning spa.

Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame & Lambeau Field

Tens of thousands of visitors make the pilgrimage each year to central Wisconsin's Green Bay, considered a mecca for football fans. Green Bay is the smallest city housing an NFL team, and the Green Bay Packers are the only publicly owned major professional sports team in the U.S. Cheeseheads are a dedicated bunch, but you don't have to own a green and gold jersey to appreciate the memorabilia and exhibits at the Green Bay Packers Hall of Fame. Visitors love getting to see the Super Bowl trophies.

Dedicated football fans who want to tackle even more Packers lore will score big by taking a guided tour of Lambeau Field. Adult tickets start at $21 for a 60-minute tour. Opt for the longer, more expensive options if you want to see the press box, locker rooms and more.

Address: 1265 Lombardi Ave., Green Bay, WI 54304

National Railroad Museum

Courtesy of National Railroad Museum

Not everything in Green Bay is devoted to the Packers. Train enthusiasts of all ages will enjoy a stop at Green Bay's National Railroad Museum. Visitors describe the museum as amazing and compliment the friendly, informed staff for making the experience fun. Besides the permanent exhibit of train memorabilia, guests can climb aboard for a ride on a diesel locomotive. Other special events throughout the year include a pumpkin patch train ride in the fall and a Polar Express train ride in November and December.

Address: 2285 S. Broadway, Green Bay, WI 54304

Wisconsin Rapids

Wisconsin is the nation's largest producer of cranberries. And the small town of Wisconsin Rapids, 100 miles northwest of Madison, is the cranberry capital. Home to the Cranberry Blossom Festival every June, you can explore the history of the tart berry year-round at the Cranberry Discovery Center in the neighboring town of Warrens. Hop on State Trunk Highway 54 for a self-guided food tour as the 50-mile Wisconsin Cranberry Trail winds past family farms and cranberry marshes. Visitors point to Le Chateau Bed and Breakfast as the best lodging in Wisconsin Rapids. Previous guests rave about the manicured gardens and sumptuous breakfasts, and many also appreciate how the owners have preserved the elegance of this 1889 Queen Anne-style house.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Romantic Getaways in Wisconsin
• The Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest
• The Best Midwest Vacations for Families
• The Top Ski Resorts in Michigan
• The Top Weekend Getaways From Chicago

Tags: Travel , Wisconsin Vacations , Midwest Vacations , US Vacations

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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 © © 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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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.

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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

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15 Wisconsin places you have to visit in the summer

If you write about traveling in Wisconsin and you spent an entire summer visiting every county in the state, you will inevitably be asked this question: What's your favorite place in Wisconsin? 

After a full summer of nonstop travel, my couch.

Driving thousands of miles through 72 counties in less than four months has a massive tiring — and blurring — effect. 

I've always known Wisconsin has a wide breadth of beautiful and interesting places, but seeing so many in one summer made that even more obvious. We might not have mountains or oceans, but we have just about every other landscape: lakes, including two ocean-like Great ones; rivers and waterfalls; prairies and savannas; old-growth forests; bluffs and hills.  

Each has a distinct beauty that makes it hard to choose one favorite.  

And if there's one thing I learned after visiting every county in Wisconsin, it's that our favorite places aren't really defined by a place so much as what it means to us — the memories we've made there. Awe-inspiring landscapes can create those memories, but some of the most seemingly mundane places can hold the deepest meanings.

For me, that's the Northwoods, where a couple of family cabins are the keepers of some of my best childhood and adult memories. Give me a campfire on our lake on a cool summer night and I don't need anything else. OK, maybe a beer, too.

That's a bit of a cop-out, I know, so I will share some other favorites. These are places that cut through the clutter of experiences I had in every corner of the state. They're places I'm sure I'll return to, and take friends and family to. 

Some notes: I skipped some favorite Wisconsin places that I'd already been to (Rock Island) in favor of seeing new places (Washington Island). I was also limited by some places (restaurants) not being open when I was traveling through. And obviously, one summer is not enough time to see everything worth seeing in Wisconsin, not to mention the different experiences and beauty that each season brings.

Here are 15 spots that stood out from my summer road trips. Hopefully they'll inspire you to plan your own.

The Kickapoo River Valley in the Driftless Region 

This was one of my favorite trips. The Driftless Region is gorgeous and so different from Wisconsin's other landscapes, with forested hills cut by winding rivers. It also isn't as built up as other natural tourist hot spots in Wisconsin like the Dells and Door County.  

Canoeing or kayaking the Kickapoo River is a must. Make time to explore Wildcat Mountain State Park and the trails of the Kickapoo Valley Reserve as well. The Kickapoo Valley Ranch would be a great place to stay in any season — the private cabins each have large porches with rocking chairs for taking in views of the surrounding hills. When I hear the word  idyllic , I think of that place.  

The Great River Road 

Wisconsin's only national scenic byway lives up to that designation. The stretch north of La Crosse is dotted with wineries, small towns and natural attractions that make for a great road trip. Don't miss hiking at Perrot State Park and Maiden Rock State Natural Area, wine tasting at Villa Bellezza and Danzinger, and pizza on a farm at the Stone Barn in Nelson. 

Bluff-top camping along the Mississippi River 

Both Wyalusing State Park, south of Prairie du Chien, and Nelson Dewey State Park, north of Cassville, have campsites on bluffs above the Mississippi River. 

Wyalusing's are car-camping sites above the confluence of the Wisconsin and Mississippi rivers. They have limited privacy, but everyone's looking at the river anyway. 

To the south, Nelson Dewey State Park's four walk-in sites are even better. Each offers a stunning view of the Mississippi, plus ample privacy between sites. The trains rumbling past on the tracks below the bluff were loud, but the stargazing was supreme and enough to keep me occupied until I fell asleep between trains. 

The Apostle Islands  

This isn't exactly a hidden gem, but because it's so far from Wisconsin's major population centers, I suspect many Wisconsinites still haven't been. Stop putting it off. If you're able, kayak to the mainland sea caves with a guide. They're one of Wisconsin's greatest natural gems, with an interesting human history as well.

There are so many other little gems in the area, too, from Lost Creek Falls outside Cornucopia to Houghton Falls Nature Preserve north of Washburn. 

Amnicon Falls State Park 

I thought Pattison State Park was going to be the star of my twofer state-park visit near Superior. Pattison, about 15 miles southwest of Amnicon, is home to the state's largest waterfall, Big Manitou Falls, plus a smaller cascade, Little Manitou.  

Both parks are worth a visit, but Amnicon was the standout for me. It's smaller, but there was a waterfall or rumbling rapid around almost every bend in the trail. The trail lets you get right up next to the falls, and most of it around the biggest cascade is paved and accessible.

Both parks are also close to another great waterfall park: Copper Falls, 90 miles east in Mellen. Combine all three for a great waterfall getaway in northern Wisconsin.  

Lakeside camping in the Northwoods 

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest and the Northern Highland-American Legion State Forest in northern Wisconsin protect more than 1.75 million acres of forest, including thousands of lakes. Both forests have dozens of small campgrounds, many on those lakes.  

When state parks fill up on weekends in the summer, you can probably still find a site at some of those forest campsites. If you're extra adventurous, you can backcountry camp off the North Country Trail on national forest land and off the Ice Age Trail on some county forest land, including in Lincoln County.  

Three gems I found over the summer were Laura Lake, in the CNNF near Laona; Bagley Rapids in the CNNF near Mountain; and Crystal Lake, in the NHAL near Sayner. 

Located in Mirror Lake State Park outside the Dells, this supper club absolutely lives up to the hype. It's a restaurant where you don't mind waiting for a table. All the better to enjoy an Old Fashioned on the deck overlooking Mirror Lake.  

The food, service and atmosphere are just as great inside. It's quintessential Wisconsin: fish and steak, log walls, classic cocktails and pine-rimmed lake views.  

Maiden Lake Supper Club  

My love-at-first sight encounter with this supper club may be partially due to the fact that I ate there after not having had a real, decent meal (or shower) for almost three days. But even under normal conditions, I think it would be among my favorites. The fried perch was some of the best I've had in Wisconsin and the dining room has three sides of windows with views of Maiden Lake. It's apparently a favorite of other people as well — it was packed when I visited on a Saturday in early May. 

Freehand Farms Restaurant  

A co-worker suggested I visit this hidden gem outside Ashland. Housed in a barn that is the stuff of Pinterest dreams, the restaurant serves an ever-changing menu with locally sourced ingredients. Heaters on the lovely patio overlooking the farm extend the outdoor eating season and kept me warm when a July cold front brought winds off Lake Superior and dropped temperatures into the 50s.  

Delta Diner 

I expected this diner in the middle of the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest to be cool — a 1940s diner in the woods is a backpacker's dream — but I didn't expect the food to be as good and inventive as it was. The menu on the wall looks simple, but as servers recite what each dish includes (by memory!), its complexity is revealed: specials include a deep-dish apple pancake cooked in a cast-iron skillet, regular menu items include the Pedro's Mex Benny, with a corn bake on the bottom and a chili chorizo sauce. 

Thirsty Pagan Brewing 

I got a flight at this brew pub in Superior (that's nine beers in those parts), and every one, from the Burntwood Black to the Trouble Maker Triple, was terrific. I only tried one of the sour offerings, but if that was representative of the others, the brewery's sour program is also great. 

Central Waters Brewing  

This is one of the few spots I've been to many times and still made a point of visiting this summer. There's a reason the brewery's annual anniversary party in February sells out in seconds. Anything bourbon-barrel aged here is divine, and the flagship and seasonal offerings are solid as well. For a while it felt like a secret, tucked into a small business park in the middle of Wisconsin. Those days are gone — it's almost always crowded on summer weekends — but a pilgrimage here is still worth it.  

The Ridges  

Visit Door County's beautiful state parks, yes, but also stop by this nature preserve in Baileys Harbor. It was the state's first land trust, and today has an incredible network of boardwalks through the ridge and swale landscape that is characteristic of this side of Lake Michigan. 

Eau Claire 

If you're looking for a getaway outside of the usual suspects, head to Eau Claire. The city's cool cred is growing thanks to forward-thinking locals including Justin Vernon, part of the Grammy Award-winning band Bon Iver, building chic boutique hotels, restaurants and breweries. Throw in a network of bike trails and cultural events throughout the summer and it's a recipe for a great weekend away. 

RELATED: Eau Claire offers good beer, art and free concerts for a summer getaway

The Kettle Moraine State Forest 

This will always be one of my favorite places in Wisconsin, home to one of my favorite trails, the Ice Age. Glacial landforms, lakes, pines, hardwoods, prairies, forested campsites — the Kettle Moraine has it all, and all close to home. It's a reminder that not all trips have to be big, expensive vacations to distant locales. You can find adventure and beauty in your backyard, if you're willing to look for it. 

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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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

Lisa Schulz / Shutterstock

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.

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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10 Best Places to Visit in North Dakota

10 Best Places to Visit in Nebraska

10 Best Places to Visit in Illinois

12 Best Things to Do in Madison, WI

12 Best Things to do in Door County, WI

15 Fun Things to do in Milwaukee, WI

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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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10 Fun Things to do in Door County in July

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: May 17, 2024  - Last updated: May 20, 2024

Here’s a guide on things to do in Door County in July for your summer adventures!

Door County is often one of the go-to road trip destinations of people who travel Wisconsin in July, thanks to the scenic loop of the renowned Door County Coastal Byway. 

But if you ask me, the best way to enjoy this county isn’t through a day trip.

Instead, it would be by staying on this peninsula for days or weeks, enjoying some fun things to do in Door County in July. 

This county is home to the most scenic parks, impressive cliffs, great trails, and the fiery dish experience of Fish Boils! 

In this blog, I’ll tell you about the wonders and things to do in Door County , which will inevitably convince you to spend your summer getaway on this magical peninsula! 

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.

Pssst…??!! You can’t get enough Door County posts? Have a look at my other posts:

• Door County Things to Do in Summer
• Beaches in Door County, Wisconsin
• Resorts in Door County on the Water

Table of Contents

Overview: Things to Do in Door County in July

• Cave Point County Park
• Green Bay cruise
• Sampling Door County Wines

1. Exploring Cave Point County Park

If you want to explore the best of Door County within a day trip, don’t miss out on visiting Cave Point County Park. 

It’s a natural wonder that consolidates all of Door County’s best features in one manageable location.

I’m talking about access to pristine beaches with crystal clear, blue waters, wave-worn limestone/dolomite ledges perfect for photos, and underwater caves that’ll make any adventurers hyped up. 

Seriously, whether you’re a biker, swimmer, photographer, or hiker, this park has all sorts of fun things to do in Door County in July! 

We rented e-bikes to test some of the best Door County bike trails nearby, hiked a short trail, and booked a 2-hour long kayak tour online to explore the lake!

2. Sailing or Boating on Green Bay

With its almost 300 miles of shoreline, Door County’s tourism centers on providing the best water experience for tourists. 

You can rent all sorts of power boats, pontoons, and sailboats in virtually every town,

We even had the chance to take a private sailing lesson during our stay, which allowed us to captain our vessel! 

Here’s my rule of thumb:

If you want to sit back and relax with good scenery, music, food, and maybe sunset escapades, enjoy boat tours and cruises . 

Then, when you’re in the mood for some adrenaline rush kick, try hopping on a sailboat. 

Trust me, these water adventures are undoubtedly some Door County activities you’ll remember for years. 

For obvious reasons, the best way to wrap up a well-spent day enjoying water activities on Green Bay is to get a good night’s sleep. 

Luckily, Green Bay is just half an hour away from some of the best resorts in Door County , including Astor House and the Kress Inn, Ascend Hotel Collection .

3. Cherry Picking at Orchard Farms

Cherry picking was, unsurprisingly, one of my favorite Door County summer activities.

I loved cherry-picking so much that we visited two cherry orchards throughout our limited stay. 

The first one was a charming orchard called Cherry Lane Orchards. We visited on the season’s opening day, and all the trees were bursting with bright red, sweet, and fresh cherries. 

The week after that cherry visit, we dropped by Schartner’s Farm Market to pick fresh cherries again, and we were also delighted with the Door County cherry-picking experience. 

We also enjoyed shopping at the market for local produce and products, such as delicacies (primarily cherries), potatoes, and cheese.

For a huge cherry fan like me, this experience was one of the best things to do in Door County in July! 

4. Visiting Door County Maritime Museum

Door County wouldn’t be the destination it is today without its rich maritime history. 

Visit the Door County Maritime Museum to immerse yourself in Door County’s cultural and historical ties with the Great Lakes.

Located along Sturgeon Bay, this museum features interactive exhibits and tours that showcase the county’s meaningful maritime roots. When we visited the museum, we first toured the Tug John Purves, a restored tugboat built in 1919 that had active roles in the two World Wars.

After that, we explored our way up to the 118-foot Jim Kress Maritime Lighthouse Tower, which offered incredible views of Sturgeon Bay and served as the actual exhibit itself. 

Another significant aspect of this great museum is that it’s literally in the heart of Sturgeon Bay.

You can find some of the most romantic hotels in Door County , such as Beach Harbor Resort and AmericInn by Wyndham . 

If you’re on a tighter budget, you can find some of the most affordable Airbnbs in Door County nearby.

5. Attending Peninsula Music Festival

Suppose you plan to visit Door County from late July to early August. 

In that case, you should book a ticket to the Peninsula Music Festival, one of the best Door County events held annually.

Running from August 6 to 24, this year’s festival will feature the musical magic of world-renowned Music Director Rune Bergmann. 

Orchestras and soloists will bring the exquisite renditions of modern and classical music to life.

Depending on your visit date, you can enjoy performances by the pianist Inna Faliks, internationally renowned violinist Philippe Quint, and other incredibly talented guests or local musicians. 

The festival is annually held in the state-of-the-art Door Community Auditorium in Fish Creek.

6. Indulging in Fish Boils

For foodie travelers like me, one of the most exciting things to do in Door County in July is to indulge in fish boils, a traditional Door County dish. 

When I first heard this dish’s name, I imagined being served a classic fish stew in a cauldron on your table (I mean, how fancy can food called “Fish Boils” be, right?). 

But I couldn’t be way off the mark. 

Indulging in Fish Boils is an experience that’ll make you wonder whether you’re in the outdoors version of the last challenge in the Master’s Chef. 

You’ll witness the dish being cooked in a firepit for about an hour, and at the last minute, the fire towers up for several feet! 

We enjoyed our fish boil experience at the restaurant called Log Den in Egg Harbor. 

But if you’re staying further up north of the peninsula, maybe in one of the hotels in Sister Bay , I heard that the Pelletier’s Restaurant & Fish Boil, which is closer, is also just as great. 

7. Sampling Door County Wines

Wineries in Door County have always proven to be some of the best in the state.

If you never turn down a good glass of wine like me, try spending several hours of a chill day sampling Door County wines.

My friends and I booked a private fruity goodness tour for the entire day, and it was worth every buck! 

We tasted various fruit wines made from plums, cherries, and berries and stopped at local markets along the way. 

After the tour, we were dropped off in front of our accommodation again, so we got all the fun of the wine experience without the trouble of planning anything. 

No doubt, one of the best things to do in Door County in July. 

8. Hiking at Newport State Park

Do you want to experience some of the best hikes in Door County ?

Visit Newport State Park’s over 2,000 acres of wilderness and enjoy scenic hiking trails among the trees, along the lake, and, if lucky, beside some wildlife. 

My favorite trail in the park was the mile-long Poetry Trail, where we found poems on permanent stanchions. 

Consider following the Europe Bay Trail Loop if you’re craving a good hike. 

You’d walk on old logging roads and enjoy sandy beaches, views of various islands, and the iconic Pilot Island Lighthouse along the way. 

Hiking at Newport State Park was one of our most active outdoor activities in Door County, and every sweat drop along the way was worth it!

By the way, this park is also a fantastic spot for stargazing.

So, if your accommodation isn’t too far like ours was, you should stay in the park past the sunset. 

We left the park around 9 PM, and it took us only about 20 minutes to reach our accommodation, the Open Hearth Lodge .

It was one of the best cabins in Door County , and bonus points for being pet-friendly! A must-try lodge in the county! 

9. Birdwatching at Toft Point State Natural Area

The Toft Point State Natural Area , a mile-wide mini-peninsula along the Lake Michigan coast of Door County, is one of the best Door County attractions for bird watching. 

This biodiversity hotspot currently serves as a safe home for over 440 plant species and many area-sensitive bird species, including 17 species of nesting warblers. 

There’s no designated birdwatching spot in the area, but bring binoculars, and you’ll be sure to spot several species of birds in the woods!

This is a heads-up, though—there were quite a few bugs when we visited, so make sure to bring bug spray when you visit this area. 

10. Exploring Fourth of July Celebrations

If you plan to spend the Fourth of July in Door County, you’re in for a great treat. 

On the day itself, you can expect vibrant parades on Baileys Harbor at around 10 AM and on Egg Habor at about 1:30 PM.

But starting the first day of July and usually until the 8th or 9th day of the month, the towns in Door County alternate in showing extravagant fireworks displays every night.

So, if you want to chase fireworks like we did, you definitely can! You won’t have to wonder what to see in Door County throughout the week. 

Apart from classic fireworks, you can enjoy events like music getaways and pop-up food stalls at local parks.

Yup—the Fourth of July is one of the most-awaited events in Door County (as it is in the rest of the US, I guess). So, you’ll have a blast regardless of which side of the peninsula you’re on!

Oh, and good news– you don’t have to wonder where to stay in Door County for families while you visit this area during this nationwide celebration. 

After all, there are dozens of hotels, Airbnbs, and Door County cabins on Lake Michigan and Green Bay. 

My final thoughts on Door County in July

By now, you already know precisely what to do in Door County in July to make every day of your summer on this peninsula matter. 

You’ll experience a healthy mix & match of land, water, and air explorations (do fireworks count?), so you’ll have a blast spending several days or weeks in Door County! 

Movies always romanticize summers, and this year, so should you. 

This season only comes once a year, and if you want to make it count, Door County is one of the best places to spend your valuable vacation.

Any time of the day, you’ll always find exciting things to do in Door County in July, not to mention all those lovely Door County cabins on the water that await you with their charm.

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! 🌍🚀

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Things To Do Summer Attractions

Summer Time in Wisconsin Dells is the Best Time

Summer in Wisconsin Dells is an active time of year. “The Waterpark Capital of the World! ® ” is heating up and there are plenty of ways to stay cool. Some of the more popular things to see and do in the summer include outdoor waterparks, scenic tours, ziplining, animal attractions, live entertainment, hiking, or visiting a local winery or brewery. The variety is what makes us a Wisconsin summer vacation favorite.

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Amusement parks & rides, animal related, breweries, wineries & distilleries, downtown wisconsin dells, find upcoming events, food & drink, gaming & casino, live entertainment, museums & interactive attractions.

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• ADare Go Carts

Put the pedal to the metal at the area's fastest track - check out ADare Go Carts for fast paced fun for all ages.

• Amusement Parks & Rides
• Fall (Labor Day - Dec 1)
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• Summer (Memorial Day - Labor Day)
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• Adrenaline Rush Sports

Adrenaline Rush Sports is the premier provider of ATV and UTV Quad 4 Wheel rentals for Guided Tours in Wisconsin Dells.

• Other Attractions
• Sports & Recreation

• AL. Ringling Mansion

The AL. Ringling Mansion is located in charming downtown Baraboo, WI. Come stop in for a historic tour, and view the grand opulence of the home of one of America's greatest showmen!

• Museums & Interactive Exhibits

• Alpha Red Tattoo and Barber Studio (Broadway)

Alpha Red Studios is the first tattoo and barber establishment with 2 convenient locations in WI Dells. They're ranked in the top 10 best tattoo parlors to visit, according to "Best things Wisconsin!"

Alpha Red Tattoo and Barber Studio (Parkway)

• Alpha Red Tattoo and Barber Studio (Pkwy)

• Aquality Float Spa

Epsom salt floats replicates a zero- gravity experience, offering stress relief and reducing inflammation in the body.

Arcade PvP Bar

Arcade PvP Bar is the perfect gem for unlimited gaming! Great games including pool, darts, foosball, beer pong, Golden Tee and many Arcade games.

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• Arcade PVP Bar (Attr)

• Asgard Axe Throwing

Unleash your inner Viking Downtown Wis Dells! Enjoy craft beers, signature cocktails and exciting food options. Ages 10 can throw axes!

• Asgard Underworld Arcade

Asgard Underworld Arcade was created with everyone in mind with new and vintage arcade games, cool bar and retro vibe located in the lower level of Asgard Axe Throwing.

B & H Trout Fishing & Bait Shop

Get info on B & H Trout Fishing & Bait Shop. Read articles on this & surrounding attractions, get pricing info & even map the location.

• B & H Trout Fishing & Bait Shop

• Big Sky Twin Drive-In Theater

The Big Sky Twin Drive-In Theater offers the old-fashioned drive-in experience in the exciting Dells area. Catch a movie and a bite at the acclaimed snack bar.

• Live Entertainment & Theaters

• Bigfoot Ropes Course

Featuring a helicopter that sits on top of 4 levels of challenges, boasting over 80 elements. All fitness levels are welcome.

• Bigfoot Zipline Tours

BigFoot Ziplines 2-hour adventure consists of 7 world-class signature ziplines and is ranked the #1 attraction in Wisconsin Dells by TripAdvisor.com.

• Booby Trap Escape Rooms

Booby Trap Escape Rooms offers 6 exciting, interactive, and thought-provoking adventures, perfect for family and friends of all ages!

Brushes & Bubbly

Whether you're a natural born artist or never touched a paint brush before, you can expect to have a fun and memorable experience at Brushes & Bubbly. Come create a masterpiece with us!

• Brushes & Bubbly

• Canyon Creek Riding Stables

Saddle up and take a safe family horseback riding adventure to tombstone and watch this western town come to life as you ride down main street at Canyon Creek Riding Stables in Wisconsin Dells.

• Animal-Related Attractions

• Capone's Original Old Time Picture Studio

As the first Old Time Photo Studio in downtown Wisconsin Dells, we take pride in offering the best service and photos.

Castle Rock Watersports & Boat Rentals

Headed to Castle Rock Watersports near Wisconsin Dells? Get the info you need here - map the location, add it to your travel itinerary and see nearby dining & lodging options.

• Castle Rock Watersports & Boat Rentals

Chalet Lanes & Lounge

Get information about Chalet Lanes & Lounge. Have some indoor fun at the bowling alley in downtown Wisconsin Dells.

• Chalet Lanes & Lounge - ATT

• Christmas Mountain Village Golf Course

Get info on Christmas Mountain Village™ Golf Course.

• Chula Vista Resort Waterparks

Read visitor reviews, view pricing info, map the location & even see nearby dining & lodging options for Chula Vista Resort Waterparks.

• Circus World

See astounding world-class entertainment LIVE with big-top circus performances, outdoor thrill acts, amazing animals, hands-on programs for kids and adults, guided tours and new exhibits, including the largest collection of circus wagons on earth!

• Cold Water Canyon Golf Course at Chula Vista Resort

Gorgeous 18 hole golf course featuring scenic canyons. New clubhouse. Full driving range & PGA instruction available. Call for tee-times!

Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil' Bumpkin Play Village

Get info on Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil' Bumpkin Play Village. Family fun on the farm!

• Country Bumpkin Farm Market & Lil' Bumpkin Play Village

• Crystal Grand Music Theatre

The Crystal Grand Music Theatre is known for it's year round incredible concerts.

• Dells Army Duck Tours

For over 75 years, Wisconsin Dells has been home to one of its most cherished attractions, offering a unique sightseeing experience on land & water.

• Dells Boat Tours®

Take our complete scenic tour along the Wisconsin River and see its peaceful, natural beauty that has brought visitors here for over 100 years.

Dells Boat Tours® Sunset Dinner Cruise

Featuring a delicious surf and turf entrée, magnificent scenery, live music and a romantic shore landing through torchlit Witches Gulch. Call for tickets and reservations.

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• Dells Escape Rooms

Do you have what it takes to escape? Choose between five different live-action games that require teamwork and critical thinking.

• Dells Mining Co. - Lake Delton

If you're planning a visit to Dells Mining Company in Lake Delton, you've come to the right place. Read visitor reviews, view helpful articles on the area, map the location & more.

• Dells Mining Co. - Wis Dells

If you're planning a visit to Dells Mining Company, you've come to the right place. Read visitor reviews, view helpful articles about the area, map the location & more.

• Dells Trolley Tours

We offer city & history tours, haunted tours, winery lunch & brewery tours, bloody mary brunch & margarita tours, dive bar tours, holiday tours, big group & airport transportation, conventions, party buses, taxi service and more. We exceed all of your needs for groups 1-300.

• Breweries, Wineries & Distilleries

Dells Watersports: Full Service Marina & Boat Rentals

Full service marina open 7 days a week. Well stocked inventory of parts and accessories, on site marine techs, Yamaha and Evinrude dealer.

• Dells Watersports: Full Service Marina & Boat Rentals

• Dells Zipline Adventures

Dells Zipline Adventures features four different levels of courses for all ages and skill levels. Challenge yourself as you explore between 10 to 60 feet in the air.

• Devil's Lake State Park

Devil's Lake State Park has spectacular views from 500 foot cliffs, miles of hiking trails, swimming areas including 2 large sandy beaches, mountain bike trails, cross country ski trails, great climbs and so much more, it's no wonder why Devil's Lake is Wisconsin's premiere state park destination.

DEZ Tactical Arms & Indoor Shooting Range

Try out one of our firearms or bring your own to shoot at our 10-lane indoor shooting range. Our range is open to the public.

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Fairfield Hills Golf Course & Driving Range

Fairfield Hills Golf Course & Range is an award winning 12 hole course with the areas large practice range and the best HD Golf Simulators available.

• Fairfield Hills Golf Course & Driving Range

Ghost Boat in Wisconsin Dells is the newest and scariest after-dark ghost tour! Take an eerie, 1.5-hour journey with us.

• Ghost Out-Post Haunted House

This Wisconsin Dells haunted house includes many unique, state of the art animatronics filled rooms designed for fun and fright.

H.H. Bennett Studio & Museum

Make the leap and visit the museum & studio of H.H. Bennett, the man who made Wisconsin Dells famous!

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• Ho-Chunk Gaming, Wisconsin Dells

Escape for some of your favorite and most popular slot machine themes, a few hands of blackjack or some action at our craps or roulette tables.

• Holiday Shores Watersports

Bring your family to Holiday Shores Watersports and experience the scenic Upper Dells of the Wisconsin River.

• International Crane Foundation

Visit the only place on Earth where you can see all 15 crane species. View and learn about these beautiful, endangered birds while exploring our acres of restored tall grass prairie.

• Jet Boat Adventures

Get all the info you need on Jet Boat Adventures. Spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and speeds of up to 40 mph.

• Justagame Fieldhouse

Justagame Fieldhouse offers plenty of space for a variety of events. Get info on venue capacity & capabilities.

• Kalahari Resort Waterparks

Kalahari Resort in Wisconsin Dells is home to Wisconsin's largest indoor waterpark and a fantastic outdoor waterpark.

Knuckleheads Trampoline Park · Rides · Bowling

Knuckleheads Trampoline Park • Rides • Bowling is home to the Dells’ only indoor trampoline park, cosmic bowling, indoor amusement rides, an epic arcade, and much more. Plan your visit today.

• Knuckleheads Trampoline Park · Rides · Bowling - ATT

• Lake Delton Ice Arena

Enjoy a day at the ice rink. Lake Delton Ice Arena in Wisconsin Dells offers public skate times, hockey tournaments, concessions and more!

• Land of Natura

Discover Wisconsin Dells' first natural theme park & waterpark! Experience America's largest inflatable waterpark, the world's largest naturally filtered man-made lake, plus 10 more outdoor attractions, restaurants, and more.

Legacy Dinner Theater presents Sneaky Pete's Wild West Dinner Show

It's the legend of how the Dells became the Dells. Best of all - it's the most fun place to eat!

• Legacy Dinner Theater

• Lost Canyon Tours

At Lost Canyon you enjoy the entire tour riding through a magnificent mile of cliff-walled gorges in quaint horse-drawn carriages.

• Lost Temple

Adventure awaits you in the LOST TEMPLE. Fun for the whole family.

• Mid-Continent Railway Museum

The Mid-Continent Railway Museum is an outdoor museum & operating railroad.

• Mirror Lake State Park

Mirror Lake is just outside of Wisconsin Dells, with sandstone bluffs surrounding half the lake which offers excellent hiking, fishing, swimming, and canoeing & kayaking.

Mirror Lake State Park: Boat & Kayak Rental

Mirror Lake is great for fishing and boating. Rent a kayak, paddle boat & more from Mirror Lake State Park Rentals today! Get pricing & read reviews here.

• Mirror Lake State Park: Boat & Kayak Rental

Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park

NEW Summer 2024 - America's Tallest Waterslide! Conquer Poseidon's Rage Wave Pool and take on Medusa's Slidewheel! Experience award winning coasters and the rush of go-karts.

• Mt. Olympus Water & Theme Park

• Nail Box Wisconsin Dells

Nail Box is the Nail Hub for Nail Lovers! Located in the Wisconsin Dells area. Whenever a new nail trend emerges, you’ll always find it on our shelves.

• Noah's Ark Waterpark

Noah's Ark is America's Largest Waterpark®, located in the Waterpark Capital of the World. Situated on 70 acres in the heart of Wisconsin Dells, Noah's Ark is the best place for family vacations.

• Old Abe's Old Time Portraits

Located downtown Wisconsin Dells, Old Abe's Old Time Portraits is a must stop! Take your Place in History! Ready in 5 minutes.

• Original Wisconsin Ducks®

Check out the Original Wisconsin Ducks in the Dells. Boat tours of the beautiful Wisconsin River & sandstone cliffs.

• Passport to Savings - Attraction Ticket Program

Visit Wisconsin Dells and Save up to 35% on 11 exciting attractions!

• Pause Facial Bar

Pause Facial Bar, in Downtown Baraboo, is a result-driven, open concept skincare experience. Advanced Facials in an hour with impressive results.

• Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf

Pirate's Cove Adventure Golf offers 5 different courses - 91 unique holes. Clean putting greens and beautiful landscaping.

• Point Blank Tattoo

Locally owned and operated since 1997, Point Blank Tattoo and Body Piercing is not only a local favorite, but a visitor favorite as well.

• Prof. Porter's Old Time Portraits

Old-time photography with very unique sets and costumes.

• Psychic in the Dells

I am a third generation, gifted Clairvoyant, Psychic specializing in Palm, Crystal Ball, and Tarot Card Readings Chakra Balancing Meditation Sessions Energy Crystals. Available for parties and events.

• Rake Motorsports

Enjoy the thrill of a ride through scenic routes of the Wisconsin Dells in an eye-catching open-air Polaris Slingshot roadster.

• Red Ridge Ranch Riding Stable

Enjoy guided trail rides and more through 250 acres of scenic woods, river & rolling fields near Wisconsin Dells.

• Redbeard Bowfishing

Redbeard Bowfishing tours are an exciting way to discover the natural beauty of the Wisconsin River, while taking fishing to a whole new level.

• Rick Wilcox Magic Theater

Get info on the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater including show info, location, pricing, visitor reviews & even buy tickets online today.

• Ringling House

Guided tour of the home of Charles & Henry Ringling Estate with family pictures and artifacts.

• Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum

If you are looking for something different, visit Ripley's Believe It or Not! Museum in Wisconsin Dells. Witness more than a museum - Have an adventure. New location now open!

• Roche-A-Cri State Park

Roche-A-Cri State Park, established in 1948, protects a 300-foot-high rock outcropping and Native American petroglyphs and pictographs. The park offers picnicking, fishing and hiking trails with a stairway to the top of the mound.

• Rocky Arbor State Park

This Wisconsin Dells State Park is located within a mile and a half of the Dells. This park and recreation retreat offers pine trees and sandstone bluffs for a cool escape for the picnicker, camping family or hiker in this state park.

• Scenic River Walk

This ¼-mile paved path offers visitors not only a breathtaking view of the Dells' unique scenery, but sprinkles in game tables and comfortable benches along its expanse in invitation to sit a spell and take in all of Mother Nature's glory. It's free and open to the public year-round.

Spa Kalahari & Salon

Enjoy massage, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, hair styling, and more at this spa & salon. Get the most relaxation possible out of your vacation.

• Spa Kalahari & Salon

• Spa Serenity

Relax with Spa Serenity's luxurious massage, facial and spa services.

• Spring Brook Golf Course

Enjoy fun, yet challenging golf at Spring Brook Golf Course in Wisconsin Dells. This 9-hole, meticulously maintained course is perfect for all ages.

• Sun Mountain Spa

Join us at Sun Mountain Spa for relaxation, enjoyment, and rejuvenation. Indulge in a spa day and let us pamper you on your vacation. Book now!

Sundara Inn & Spa

Featured in Travel & Leisure magazine among 25 top spa resorts in the country, Sundara offers a serene escape for adults.

• Sundara Inn & Spa - ATT

• Take Flight, Wilderness Aerial Adventure Ride

Take Flight is the first fly ride of its kind in Wisconsin Dells and is dedicated to giving you the best cinematic motion adventure in front of our GIGANTIC 65′ wide x 48′ tall screen!

• The Haunted Mansion

A trip to Wisconsin Dells is simply incomplete if one fails to venture into this haunted house attraction located downtown Wisconsin Dells.

• The House on the Rock

The House on the Rock is a famous nearby Wisconsin Dells attraction, inn & resort. Learn more about the remarkable retreat. View ticket prices, hours & more.

• The Woods Short Course at Wild Rock

Don't have time for a full round of golf at the Wilderness Resort? The Woods short course is a unique, quick, 9-hole course. Check it out here.

• Timbavati Wildlife Park

Enjoy a close, personal encounter with a giraffe, zebra, kangaroo & many more unique animals. Ride the Safari Train or catch a ride on a camel!

• Timber Falls Adventure Park

Timber Falls Mini Golf offers 3 scenic & shaded courses overlooking the Wisconsin River. After enjoying a round of mini golf, make sure to visit our complimentary petting zoo for even more family fun!

• Tom Foolerys Adventure Park

Tom Foolerys Adventure Park offers exciting indoor activities in Wisconsin Dells. Learn more about this fun Wisconsin Dells theme park & buy tickets today.

• Tommy Bartlett Exploratory - Interactive Science Center

Looking for something to do in Wisconsin Dells? Make sure to visit Tommy Bartlett Exploratory. This interactive science museum is an attraction not to miss!

• Top Secret, A Highly Classified Experience

Get all the info you'll need to visit Top Secret in Wisconsin Dells. See pricing, map the location & even view nearby dining & lodging options.

• Totally 80's

Totally 80's is an immersive art exhibit & photo experience, including 24 unique sets with iconic 80's gear.

• Trappers Turn Golf Club

Learn more about Trappers Turn Golf Club and golf course. Features elegant dining and a 27-hole course rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest.

Twisted Dimentions Tattoo Studio

Professional & experienced artists specializing in a variety of tattoo styles. Piercing services available. Walk-ins welcome.

• Twisted Dimensions

Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided Adventures

Vertical Illusions is your one-stop shop for zip line, kayaking and rock climbing in Wisconsin. This attraction has it all! Get all the info here.

• Vertical Illusions Zipline, Kayak & Rock Climbing Guided Adventures

• Wild Fun Zone

Wild Fun Zone in Downtown Wisconsin Dells is the largest arcade the Dells has to offer. Experience indoor mini-golf and laser tag with the whole family!

• Wild Rock Golf Club at the Wilderness

Wild Rock Golf Club is located at the beautiful Wilderness Resort. This Wisconsin Dells golf course has so much to offer. See golf rates, tee times, & more.

• Wilderness Canyon Zip Line Canopy Tour

One of the most exciting Wisconsin Dells zipline attractions, the Wilderness Canyon Zip Line tour, is located conveniently at the Wilderness Resort. Check it out!

• Wilderness Fun Pass

Save BIG with our Fun Pass! Fun Passes are Guest Exclusive only. Each Fun Pass includes one admission to each popular attraction within the resort, as well as an arcade credit!

• Wilderness Resort Waterpark

Take your day to the next level with an additional purchase of a Wild Fun Pass and experience all of the Wilderness Resort attractions during your visit!

• Wildthing Jet Boats

Climb aboard Wisconsin Dells' most popular Jet Boat Tour and experience the thrill for yourself! This jet boat ride will be one you'll never forget!

Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center

The Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Education Center is a non-profit organization that is a sanctuary for big cats that have been abused, abandoned, or seized. Read more.

• Wisconsin Big Cat Rescue & Educational Center

• Wisconsin Deer Park

For 50+ years, the Wisconsin Deer Park has offered families and children of all ages the unique opportunity to explore, enjoy and feed over 100 deer and other wildlife.

• Wisconsin Opry

If you are looking for family entertainment, then you need to visit Wisconsin Opry in Wisconsin Dells. Enjoy a fun-filled night with music and dinner.

• Wizard Quest

Escape into a fantasy world of wizards, dragons and more at Wizard Quest! This is a 30,000 sq. ft. place of magic, where kids complete a story driven quest.

Wollersheim Winery & Distillery

Get a taste of nationally recognized wines at Wollersheim Winery & Distillery near Wisconsin Dells. Explore events, winery & distillery tours and tastings.

• Wollersheim Winery & Distillery

• Woodside Ranch Riding Stables

Woodside Ranch Riding Stables at the scenic Woodside Ranch Resort offers horseback riding in Wisconsin Dells for all experience levels.

• Woodside Sports Complex - Wisconsin Dells

Get information about Woodside Sports Complex in Wisconsin Dells like address, rental information, and policies.

• Yeti Yard Next Level Adventure

Put the pedal to the metal on the Himalayan Speedway racing to victory on our 640 foot elevated go kart track. Also featuring 18-hole interactive mini golf course.

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Visitors Guide

Read great stories and find insider tips about Milwaukee

4th of July Fireworks and Festivals 

Fireworks shows are finally back! From neighborhood parks to the outlying suburbs, we know the best places to oh and aah in Milwaukee for the Fourth of July. With Independence Day falling on a Thursday this year, celebrations begin as early as Monday, July 1. Use this page to find where events and fireworks are happening all weekend long.

Lakefront Fireworks

Unfortunately, due to a lack of sponsorship funding this year, the Milwaukee County Parks Department has announced that the 4th of July Lakefront Fireworks will not be returning in 2024. You can read more about the cancelations here .

Milwaukee County Parks

Parks all over the city  will be buzzing with parades, games, picnics and more on July 4. Fireworks will start around 9:15 at the following parks: Alcott Park, Gordon Park, Humboldt Park, Jackson Park, Lake Park, Lincoln Park, Mitchell Park, Noyes Park, Washington Park, and Wilson Park.

Take a short trip outside city limits for fun celebrations in the Greater Milwaukee area. Some highlights include:

About 15 miles north of Milwaukee,  Brown Deer  will celebrate Independence Day at Village Park, 4920 W. Green Brook Drive. Come for the food trucks, beer tent, live music and games beginning at noon and stay for the fireworks at 9:30 p.m.  

In the opposite direction,  Cudahy  is less than 10 miles from Milwaukee and has an all-day celebration planned for the Fourth, including a bike parade, free ice cream and Cracker Jacks, live music and, of course, a fireworks display at 9:15 p.m.

The City of  Franklin  hosts their 5-day long, annual Independence Celebration, right next to the Franklin Public Library. From live music, games, rides, contests and a parade, there is something for everyone here. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, July 4, and a bonus drone light show will begin at 9:30 p.m. the follow day, Friday, July 5.

Head to  Kletzsch Park in Glendale  for North Shore’s biggest, free, Independence Day celebration. Enjoy the parade, a food truck festival, birthday cake giveaway, live music and fireworks beginning at 9:00 p.m.

Located in Greendale’s historic downtown, this festival runs for 4 days, from Wednesday, July 3 to Saturday, July 6.   The Lions Club Family 4 th  Fest  will offer amusement rides, carnival games, festival food, a craft beer and wine test and more. Fireworks display starts at dusk on July 4 .

Make your way to  Konkel Park on Layton Avenue  in Greenfield to celebrate the 4 th  of July. The Partners of Greenfield Parks and Rec put on an annual festival showcasing a beauty pageant, bike decorating content, free ice cream giveaway and live music! Fireworks will start at approximately 9:45 p.m.

Hales Corners

Hales Corners  will ring in America’s birthday in a big way. Activities include the Firecracker Four Run/Walk, an antique and classic car show, a children's parade with ice cream and games to follow, a patriotic pet costume contest, a performance by the UW Marching Band, fireworks and so much more. Fireworks begin at 9:30 p.m. on July 4.

Oak Creek will celebrate their  Citywide 4 th  of July  Celebrating on Tuesday, July 4 th , in Vista Park. The night will end with fireworks at dusk.

The Shorewood Foundation and Eastmore Real Estate invites you to come out and celebrate the  Fourth of July at Atwater Park ! Live music, food, drinks, and more will proceed the fireworks, starting at 9:00 p.m.

Festivities in  Tosa  begin at 9:00 a.m. on July 4 with a parade, followed by Family Fun Fest, live music and food. The location of Wauwatosa celebration has changed this year, from Hart Park to City Hall, due to construction at Hart Park. Additionally, the annual fireworks will be moved to August 7th to align with Tosa Night Out (only for 2024). 

The celebrations in West Allis will culminate on two separate days. Tuesday, July 2 at 7:00 p.m. you can find the West Allis Independence Day Parade traveling east down Greenfield Avenue and south on Orchard Avenue. Find your way to the West Allis Athletic Complex at Nathan Hale High School on Tuesday, July 4 th  for the  City of West Allis’s July Grandstand and Fireworks  show, with fireworks starting at 9:30 p.m.

Whitefish Bay

The festival in  Whitefish Bay  begins at 11:30 a.m. on July 4 with a parade on Silver Spring Drive. Find your way to Klode Park for festivities including carnival games, fair food, rides and to top it off, a fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m.

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Things to do in Wisconsin Dells in July

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Looking for a different month?

July is a great time to visit Wisconsin Dells . The weather is usually pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze, with temperatures ranging from 63—82°F (17—28°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Wisconsin Dells during this time. Some of our top recommendations: visit the Wisconsin Deer Park, enjoy a round of golf at one of Wisconsin Dells' championship golf courses, take a hike at Devil's Lake State Park, and more!

Wisconsin Dells has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your July trip to Wisconsin Dells. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to July. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Wisconsin Dells in July. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout July, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Table of contents

• Experiences
• Weather and what to wear
• Attractions

Best events and things to do in Wisconsin Dells in July

Top experiences in july, visit the wisconsin deer park, enjoy a round of golf at one of wisconsin dells' championship golf courses, take a hike at devil's lake state park, explore the lost canyon by horse-drawn carriage, cool off at noah's ark waterpark, go on a zip lining adventure at bigfoot zipline tours, attend the water ski show at tommy bartlett show, holidays in wisconsin dells in july.

There are no holidays in Wisconsin Dells in July

Other notable holidays

• Flag Day ( June 14 )
• Father's Day ( June 16 )
• Weather in Wisconsin Dells in July

Temperatures on an average day in Wisconsin Dells in July

The average temperature in Wisconsin Dells in July for a typical day ranges from a high of 82°F (28°C) to a low of 63°F (17°C). Some would describe it as pleasantly warm with a gentle breeze.

For comparison, the hottest month in Wisconsin Dells , July, has days with highs of 82°F (28°C) and lows of 63°F (17°C). The coldest month, January has days with highs of 25°F (-4°C) and lows of 8°F (-14°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Wisconsin Dells in July based on historical data.

Visiting Wisconsin Dells? See our Wisconsin Dells Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in July

General weather summary, what to wear in july, best attractions for wisconsin dells in july.

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It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Wisconsin Dells for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

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Explore nearby places

• Wisconsin Dells
• Lake Delton
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All related maps of Wisconsin Dells

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Wisconsin Dells throughout the year

• Wisconsin Dells in January
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Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Wisconsin Dells?

Get inspired for your trip to Wisconsin Dells with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Cicada map 2024: See where to find Broods XIII and XIX; latest info on emergence

If you haven't seen them yet, you may have heard them: the periodical cicadas that are out in full force in nearly 20 U.S. states across the Southeast and Midwest.

These 17 states, which range from Oklahoma to Wisconsin to North Carolina and more, are seeing the trillions of cicadas emerging this year in a rare, double brood event.

The two broods this year, the 13-year Brood XIX located mainly in the Southeast and the 17-year Brood XIII in the Midwest, have not emerged together in 221 years and are not expected to do so again until 2245.

Thanks to warm soil temperatures and ideal conditions, cicadas from both broods have already made their way above ground and the emergence is already in full swing.

Here's where you can find cicadas above ground this year.

What do cicadas eat? Lifecycle, diet and biting habits explained

2024 cicada map: Check out where Broods XIII, XIX are projected to emerge

The two cicada broods were projected to emerge in a combined 17 states across the South and Midwest. They emerge once the soil eight inches underground reaches 64 degrees, beginning in many states in April and May and lasting through late June.

The two broods  last emerged together in 1803 , when Thomas Jefferson was president.

Where are the cicadas already out in 2024?

Adult periodical cicadas from Brood XIX are now completing its emergence as the brood is out in full force in states across the Midwest and Southeast, according to  Cicada Safari , a cicada tracking app developed by Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati, Ohio.

They have been spotted on the app in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi, Missouri, North Carolina, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia.

Brood XIII has started to emerge in Wisconsin, Iowa and Indiana and throughout the Chicago area and around central and northern Illinois around Peoria and Champaign, according to the tracking service.

What is a brood?

According to the  University of Connecticut , broods are classified as "all periodical cicadas of the same life cycle type that emerge in a given year."

A brood of cicadas is made up of different species of the insect that have separate evolutionary histories. These species may have joined the brood at different times or from different sources. These different species are lumped together under the brood because they are in the same region and emerge on a common schedule.

How long will the cicadas be above ground?

How long cicadas live depends on their brood and if they are an annual or periodical species.

The two periodical broods this summer are Brood XIX, which have a 13-year life cycle, and Brood XIII, which have a 17-year life cycle.

Once male and female periodical cicadas have mated and the latter has laid its eggs, the insects will die after spending only a few weeks above ground − anywhere from three to six weeks after first emerging.

That means many of this year's periodical cicadas are set to die in June, though some could die off in late May or July, depending on when they emerged.

The nymphs of annual cicadas remain underground for  two to five years , according to the Missouri Department of Conservation. These cicadas are called " annual " because some members of the species emerge as adults each year.

Why do cicadas make so much noise?

You'll have to thank the male cicadas for all that screeching. Male cicadas synchronize their calls and produce congregational songs, according to  Britannica , which establish territory and attract females. There is also a courting call that they make before mating.

The periodical 13-year and 17-year brood cicadas  are the loudest , partially because of the sheer number of them that emerge at once.

Americans celebrate their flag every year, and the holiday was born in Wisconsin

W AUBEKA, Wis. (AP) — Each June, the people of Waubeka venerate perhaps the nation’s most enduring symbol, celebrating Flag Day, a holiday that escapes the notice of many Americans.

But this unincorporated Wisconsin town about 35 miles (56 kilometers) north of Milwaukee takes the day seriously. After all, it lays claim to being the birthplace of Flag Day, thanks to a tenacious teacher in a one-room schoolhouse.

Here are some things to know about the obscure flag-waving holiday.

What is Flag Day?

Flag Day commemorates June 14, 1777, when the Continental Congress determined the composition of the nation’s banner: “Resolved, That the flag of the thirteen United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white in a blue field, representing a new constellation.”

President Woodrow Wilson issued a 1916 proclamation of June 14 as Flag Day and in 1949, President Harry S. Truman signed the formal observance into law. And it falls during Flag Week, after another congressional dictum in 1966.

What about July 4?

Yes,  Independence Day  makes prominent use of the flag. But the emblem is important enough to have its own day, according to David Janik, a Waubeka native and second-generation president of the National Flag Day Foundation.

“July 4th, we’re celebrating our independence,” Janik said. “But on Flag Day, we’re celebrating the birth of our flag, which is the symbol of our country, the symbol that is seen all around the world as the helper, the people who won’t leave you out in the cold.”

Why Waubeka?

On June 14, 1885, Bernard J. Cigrand, an 18-year-old Waubeka native teaching at Stony Hill School, put a flag in his inkwell and assigned his students an essay about what the flag means to them. Cigrand left the next year for dental school in Chicago, but he never gave up his advocacy for a national day dedicated to the flag.

Cigrand realized his dream in 1916 when Wilson issued his proclamation.

Although he died in 1932, Waubeka never forgot Cigrand and in 1946, community leaders established the town’s Flag Day celebration, which has run continuously since then.

Any other ‘first’ Flag Days?

Yes. The earliest mention of Flag Day involves a man named George Morris who organized such a commemoration on June 14, 1861, in Hartford, Connecticut, marked by a patriotic program and prayers for Union Army success in a young Civil War. But apparently, the festivities were never repeated.

Pennsylvanians will challenge Cigrand’s coronation as “Father of Flag Day.” Pittsburgh native William T. Kerr began his advocacy in 1888 and a year later became national chairman of the American Flag Day Foundation, holding that position for a half a century. Kerr was among those standing beside Truman when he signed the Flag Day law.

As for the expected friendly rivalry, Janik said his father, the late Jack Janik, “took care of that.” The elder Janik traveled to Washington and lobbied Congress, which in 2004 adopted a resolution naming Waubeka “the birthplace of Flag Day.”

What about the essays?

Along with the parade, the bands, the patriotism awards, the military honor guards and a dog named Harlow who turns 8 on Flag Day and sported a red, white and blue boater on her head, there are the essays.

In the spirit of Cigrand and his students of 139 years ago, the Waubeka Flag Day celebration includes an annual essay contest and draws entries from across the nation — this year from New York to Nevada and Wisconsin to Texas.

The Stars and Stripes “represent a nation where immigrants like my grandparents are welcomed, where diversity is celebrated and where justice is present for all,” wrote Neel Sood, a 4th grader from Bridgewater, New Jersey.

Adell, Wisconsin 7th grader Ryan Spang wrote that “the American flag represents unity. We are one nation, united by our similarities and differences. We support people in our communities in times of need and we cheer them on in times of achievement.”

Why isn’t it a day off?

Flag Day isn’t like Thanksgiving, Memorial Day and a smattering of other federal holidays that generally mean Americans can spend the day off work.

Instead, it’s officially recognized nationwide, and government services are still open and the mail still gets delivered. Only Pennsylvania marks it as a state holiday, allowing residents to stay home from work and school.

But another backyard barbecue isn’t required to feel the love in Waubeka.

“Our passion for the flag here is very deep,” Janik said. “The flag is the symbol of our country — it symbolizes individualism, success, loss, daring, chivalry. People need a compass to guide them, and the flag is a great compass.”

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.

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2024 fourth of july fireworks and parades in se wisconsin.

It's hard to believe, but Independence Day celebrations are just a few weeks away

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It's hard to believe, but Independence Day celebrations are just a few weeks away.

• Elkhorn: Dusk, Sunset Park
• Hartland: 9:30 p.m., Nixon Park
• Delavan (town): Dusk, Delavan Lake Communinty Park
• Fredonia: Fireman's Park (150th Annivesary celebration)
• Grafton: Lime Kiln Park
• Mequon-Thiensville: Dusk, Village Park
• Oconomowoc: Dusk, over Fowler Lake
• East Troy: 3072 Graydon Ave.
• Slinger Speedway: Rain date July 1
• Waupun: 9:30 p.m., Tanner Park
• Campbellsport: Dusk
• Jefferson County: 9:30 p.m., Jefferson County Fair Park
• Menomonee Falls: Dusk, near Menomonee Falls High School
• Mukwonago: 9:05 to 10:05 p.m., Phantom Junction Stage
• Muskego: Dusk, Idle Isle Park
• Paddock Lake: 9:30-10 p.m.
• Sturtevant: 9:30 p.m., Fireman's Park
• Waukesha: 9:30 p.m., Lowell Park
• Brookfield: 9:17 p.m., Mitchell Park
• Brown Deer: 9:30 p.m., Village Park
• Butler: Dusk (about 9 p.m.), Frontier Park
• Cedarburg: Dusk, Adlai Horn Park
• Columbus: Dusk, Fireman's Park (Rain date is July 5)
• Cudahy: 9:15 p.m., Sheridan Park
• Delavan (city): 9 to 9:45 p.m., Congdon Gardens
• Elm Grove: 9:35 p.m., Village Park
• Fond du Lac: 9:30 p.m., Lakeside Park
• Fontana: Dusk, over the lake - launched from a barge off Fontana Beach
• Franklin: 9:30 p.m., Lions Legend Park
• Germantown: Dusk, Firemen's Park
• Glendale: 9 p.m., Kletzsch Park
• Greenfield: 9:45 p.m., Konkel Park
• Hales Corners: 9:30 p.m., Hales Corners Park
• Hartford: 9:30 p.m., Independence Park
• Johnson Creek: Dusk, Centennial Park
• Kenosha: 9:30 p.m., along the lakefront
• Kohler: 9:15 p.m., Ravine Park (Rain date is July 5)
• Lake Mills: Dusk
• Alcott Park
• Gordon Park
• Humboldt Park
• Jackson Park
• Lincoln Park
• Mitchell Park
• Washington Park
• Wilson Park
• New Berlin: 10 p.m., Malone Park
• Oak Creek: Dusk, Lake Vista Park
• Pewaukee: Dusk: Over Pewaukee Lake - viewable from Lakefront Park or the beach
• Port Washington: Dusk, downtown - launched from Coal Dock Park
• Racine: 8:45 p.m./Dusk, North Beach
• Raymond: RCBO Festival Grounds
• Saukville: Dusk, Peninsula Park
• Sharon: Dusk, Goodland Memorial Park
• Sheboygan: 9:30 p.m., near South Pier
• Shorewood: Atwater Park
• St. Francis: 9:15 p.m., Milton Vretenar Municipal Park
• Sussex: 9:30 p.m., Sussex Village Park
• Waterloo: 9:30 p.m., Firemen's Park
• West Allis: 9:30 p.m., West Allis Athletic Complex
• West Bend: 9:45 p.m., Riverside Park
• Whitefish Bay: 9:30 p.m., Klode Park
• Whitewater: 10 p.m., over Cravath Lake
• Elkhart Lake: Dusk, lakefront
• Delafield: Over Nagawicka Lake
• Fox Lake: Dusk, launched off Nippersink Lake
• Lac La Belle
• Palmyra: Dusk, Blue Spring Lake
• Tichigan Lake: Dusk
• Beaver Dam: 9:30 p.m., Tahoe Park (Best Damn Fest)
• Grafton: 4 p.m.; the parade will start at the corner of Falls Road and 1st Avenue and will continue East on Falls Road to Green Bay Road
• Mequon-Thiensville: 10:30 a.m.; winds through Mequon and Thiensville, ending up in Thiensville Village Park
• Oconomowoc: 5 p.m.; the parade travels from Roosevelt Park north through downtown and ends near Fowler Park
• East Troy: Noon; the route is from West Street, east on Main around Village Square, north on Division Street to Elm Street, west on Elm Street to Beulah Avenue, south on Graydon Avenue, west to Rossmiller Park on Graydon
• Hartland: 1:30 p.m. (Hometown Celebration)
• West Allis: 7 p.m.; parade route starts at 77th Street and Greenfield Avenue, continues east on Greenfield towards 70th Street, and ends at Orchard Avenue
• Menomonee Falls: 7 p.m.
• Brookfield (city): 10 a.m.
• Butler: 2 p.m.; North on 127th Street from Arden to Frontier Park
• Campbellsport: Noon
• Cedarburg: 10 a.m.; through downtown
• Columbus: Noon; along Ludington St. and Park Ave.
• Cudahy: 11:30 a.m. is the Kids Bike Parade; Noon is the main parade. It starts at Grange and Packard and ends at Layton and Lake Drive
• Delafield: 10 a.m.; Route is from City Hall to the Delafield American Legion Post 196
• Delavan (city): 3 p.m.; 8th Street to Phoenix Park
• Franklin: Children's parade is at 10:30 a.m., main parade is at 11 a.m.
• Germantown: 4 p.m.
• Glendale: 10 a.m. is the children's parade; 10:30 a.m. is the main parade
• Greendale: 9:30 a.m.
• Greenfield: 12:15 p.m.
• Hales Corners: 4 p.m.; starts at Scharles and Forest Home avenues and ends at 116th and Godsell Avenue. The Children's Parade is at 9:30 a.m.
• Parade March to Alcott Park: 9:45 a.m.
• Parade throughout Enderis Park: 8:45 a.m.
• Gordon Park: 11 a.m.; Bremen and Clark Streets to Gordon Park
• Humboldt: 9 a.m.; Starts at South Kinnickinnic and East Lincoln avenues to park
• Lake: 9 a.m.
• Mitchell Park: 9 a.m.; Start location #1 – National Avenue and 4th Street, Start location #2 – Mitchell and 23rd Streets, Start location #3 – Scott and 30th streets
• Wlilson Park: 9 a.m.; Begins at South 20th Street and West Howard Avenue and ends at Wilson Park
• New Berlin: 1 p.m.; parade will begin at 159th Street and travel west to Rose Court. Staging will take place on National Avenue, west of Moorland to 159th and carry into the subdivision north.
• Oak Creek: 9 a.m.; parade begins near Edgewood Elementary School and ends at American Legion Post 434
• Palmyra: 1 p.m.; boat parade on Lower Spring Lake
• Pewaukee: 3 p.m.
• Racine: 9 a.m.; route is 2.6 miles along Main Street – starting officially at Goold and Main streets moving south around the turn up 14th Street
• Raymond: 1 p.m.; the entire route is along 76th Street working from north to south. It'll begin at the Raymond Town Hall and finish at Raymond Elementary School
• Saukville: 1 p.m.; South Main Street to Grady Park
• Sharon: 11 a.m. rain or shine
• Sheboygan: 9 a.m.; North 8th Street and Center Avenue to Michigan Avenue to Broughton Drive
• Shorewood: 3 p.m.
• St. Francis: 2 p.m.; starts on Howard Avenue, east to Packard Avenue and then South to Lunham Avenue
• Sussex: 9:30 a.m.; Kiddie Parade starts. Participants in the parade march west on Main Street to The Grove at Village Park.
• Union Grove: 9 a.m. Kiddie Parade, Main Parade is at 9:30 a.m.
• Waterford: Kids parade starts at 10:30 a.m., Main parade starts at 11 a.m.
• Watertown: 10 a.m.; Starts at 2nd and Main streets
• Waukesha: 11 a.m.; the parade will begin on Barstow Street at the Lee Sherman Dreyfus State Office Building (141 NW Barstow Street), proceed down Main Street, turn onto Maple Avenue and end at Wisconsin Avenue
• Wauwatosa: 9 a.m.; parade leaves from Hoyt Pool parking lot. The parade will then proceed north on Swan (92nd Street) to North Avenue, then turn right on North Avenue, ending near 80th Street
• West Bend: 9:30 a.m., route begins at Badger Middle School, continuing north on Main Street to Cedar Street and 7 th Avenue before returning to Main Street and concluding at Regner Park
• Whitefish Bay: 11:30 a.m.; parade kicks off at the corner of Silver Spring Drive and Kent Avenue and heads east on Silver Spring Drive, continuing north on Lake Drive to Klode Park.
• Elkhart Lake: 11:30 a.m.; route begins on East Street by Siebkens Resort and will end at Fireman’s Park

If you have information about fireworks displays or parades not listed, please email [email protected].

Watch The 2024 WISN 12 Summerfest Big Bang Fireworks Presented by Menards

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New crop Wisconsin potatoes to start shipping late July

The Wisconsin Russet potato storage supply will likely finish up the first week in August and then transition to harvesting new crop potatoes in the state. "Our current stocks are comparable to last year at this time," says Christine Lindner, Alsum Farms & Produce Marketing Manager.

On storage crop Russets, along with Wisconsin, Idaho, Washington, and Colorado are all shipping those along with yellow potatoes while new crop red potatoes are shipping out of Florida and California.

As for potato demand, it's steady heading into summer. "Prices are well below last year at this time for the Russet potato category and the yellow potato category. The tight supply of new crop red potatoes available on the market has caused a red-hot market," says Lindner.

Promotable potatoes That said, eyes are already turned to quality new crop potatoes which will begin shipping from Wisconsin by late next month at competitive prices. "That will allow retailers to run promotions on new crop potatoes during the latter half of the summer months and into fall," says Lindner.

Looking ahead, Alsum Farms has planted nearly 3,000 acres of Wisconsin Healthy Grown® Certified (a program the grower was a founding member of) Russet, red and yellow potatoes between its two farming locations in Arena and Grand Marsh, Wisconsin. (Its farms' potato supplies are about 50 percent of the potato volume it markets annually.)

Increase in yellow plantings Planting of the new crop began on April 10th and finished on May 17th. "Our total acres for 2024 are nearly the same as last year. We have cut back on our red potato acres and increased our yellow potato acres," says Lindner.

Test digs at its farms on Russet and yellow potato varieties are indicating a promising year. "It's still a little early to tell on yields and size profile but our early yellow varieties are sizing up well," she says. "Wisconsin potato harvest of yellow and red potatoes is poised to begin the last week of July and Wisconsin Russet potatoes are on track to begin harvest the week of August 12th."

Meanwhile, Alsum Farms is continuing with its work in sustainability practices which it has done for almost three decades. Last week, it and the U.S. Dairy Forage Research Center hosted more than 80 farmers, and educational and industry leaders at its Arena farm for a Farmer-Led Field Day on managing pollinator habitats. It has also dedicated 50 acres to prairie restoration and pollinator habitat to cultivate a sustainably grown food supply.

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Become an authorized driver before travel

Starting July 1, 2024 , no exceptions will be made for driving related expense reimbursements if approval to become an authorized driver is received after you travel. Check the Risk Management website to view your authorization status. In addition, save the UW Traveler’s Checklist and contact the FP&M Business Office with additional questions.