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28 Best Things to Do in Wisconsin & Places to Visit in 2023

Wisconsin is affectionately known as the “dairy state,” but there’s much more to this often-overlooked Midwestern location than delicious cheese, ice cream, and beer!

Aside from some seriously quirky attractions, world-class golf resorts, and quintessentially Midwestern cities, it’s an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise that is perfect for anyone who enjoys getting into the fresh air.

Wisconsin has an abundance of state parks that attract over 20 million visitors annually, where camping, hiking, biking, kayaking, skiing, snow-shoeing, and an extensive selection of nature programs and events are available to enjoy.

There’s plenty to see and do for art, history, and culture lovers, too. You might be familiar with Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin, the impressive State Capitol Building in Madison, stepping back in time at Old World Wisconsin, or the whimsical curiosity of the House on the Rock.

Sports fans are well catered for, too, with the Green Bay Packers summoning the cheeseheads, the Milwaukee Bucks dominating basketball, and the Brewers representing America’s favorite game: baseball. Visiting the historic stadiums and grounds of these teams is an absolute must if you’re in the area.

We Wisconites are a friendly bunch, so come and experience the famous “Midwest nice,” and check out our guide to the places to visit and the best things to do in Wisconsin!

TL;DR

  • Most significant landmark – Lambeau Field, Green Bay
  • Best park – Devil’s Lake State Park
  • Best free activity – Wisconsin State Capitol tour
  • Best activity for kids – Wizard World
  • Best activity for adults – New Glarus Brewery Tour, or Kayaking Lake Superior
  • Best food – The Old Fashioned, Madison
  • Best nightlife – Water Street, Milwaukee
  • Best all-around accommodation – Grand Geneva Resort & Spa

Fun & Best Things to Do in Wisconsin

1. Cave of the Mounds

Inside the Cave of the Mounds in Wisconsin
EJRodriquez / Adobe Stock

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

Cave of the Mounds is a jaw-dropping natural limestone cave with glistening beauty that you should not miss when you visit the state. This literal “hidden gem” is full of incredible rock and mineral formations and mined gemstones, making it a great place to explore for any nature lover, or anyone brave enough to venture into the dramatic depths.

Aside from being a must-see tourist attraction, the Cave of the Mounds offers a lot of activities both over and underground. Those who prefer to stay topside can take to one of the many hiking trails in the region, and visitors can go cycling, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.

The cave is open throughout the year, so you can see the subterranean natural limestone and mineral formations come rain or shine. Just remember to dress appropriately if you do decide to explore the murky depths, as temperatures can get remarkably chilly when you’re underground.

See Related: Minnesota vs Wisconsin: What’s the Difference?

2. Wisconsin State Capitol

Wisconsin State Capitol building during sunset
Kovcs / Adobe Stock

Address: 2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703

The Wisconsin State Capitol building will take you on a journey with incredible insight into the state’s rich history. It boasts stunning mosaics and towering marble columns, making it one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the United States.

The State Capitol consists of two houses, namely the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the Governor’s Office. They are all located in the state’s picturesque capital city of Madison, which is regularly voted as one of the best places to live in the US, and well worth a visit in its own right.

In the Wisconsin State Capitol building, free tours are offered daily, except on certain holidays. In the summer, you can enjoy the museum on the sixth floor, as well as an observation deck, which offers stunning views of the city.

Here you can learn about the many ethnic and cultural backgrounds of the country and enjoy interactive exhibits that will keep both kids and adults entertained. The Capitol building is located near the Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown, which is one of the best accommodations in the area, and a great place to stay when exploring all Madison has to offer.

3. The House on the Rock

House on the Rock at night in Wisconsin
House on the Rock / Facebook

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

What started as a towering retreat, blossomed into a unique Wisconsin attraction known as the House on the Rock. Designed by unintentionally famous architect Alex Jordan, it began life as a personal bolt-hole, but soon captured the imagination of its early visitors, and was properly opened to the public in 1959.

Built on a sandstone formation called Deer Shelter Rock, Alex’s initial idea extended beyond the original house, as he began “collecting” and “constructing” on a large scale. In fact, there are several collections and art galleries available, all of which are exotic and one-of-a-kind. It all sits on top of a rock chimney in the beautiful Southern Wisconsin countryside and is enjoyed by hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The House on the Rock features the largest carousel on Earth. It was constructed with over 269 carousel animals, hundreds of angels fluttering from the ceilings, and over 20,000 lights.

And that’s not all, as visitors can also enjoy a world-class resort, golf course, and spa in the area, to further enhance your experience of this strange but memorable attraction.

See Related: Best Unknown Places to Visit

4. Wisconsin Deer Park

Deer and a fawn in Wisconsin Deer Park
Wisconsin Deer Park / Facebook

Address: 2183 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

After a lovely trip down the Wisconsin Great River Road, you can spend the day at a charming 40-acre petting zoo, the Wisconsin Deer Park.

This park has been one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin since 1952. For more than 50 years it has provided a unique chance for families and children to explore nature and spend quality time together.

This family-friendly petting zoo allows you to observe wildlife up close, with the opportunity to hand-feed the many species that call it home, including deer, horses, llamas, and goats. And you might get lucky and see even more animals as you stroll along the well-maintained hiking trails that the park offers.

5. Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin

Frank Lloyd Wright's Taliesin building and garden
Taliesin Preservation / Facebook

Address: 5481 County Rd C, Spring Green, WI 53588

Arguably the most famous architect ever to grace the world of design, Frank Lloyd Wright was originally a Wisconsinite, born in Richland Center in 1867. Once his home, Taliesin (pronounced tally-ESS-in), is now a museum, dedicated to the preservation of his life’s work and legacy.

Visitors can enjoy a choice of tours of this 37,000-square-foot home, studio, and school, as well as tours of Wisconsin’s corner of the Driftless region – an area of cultural and topographical significance spanning four States.

Across the 800-acre estate, you’ll discover several buildings designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, showcasing his extensive career, as well as a variety of programs and events throughout the year.

Taliesin became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2019 and is a must-see for anyone interested in stunning architecture and design. Frank Lloyd Wright himself found it very hard to be away from here – and perhaps you will, too.

6. Lambeau Field

Building of Lambeau Field
Lambeau Field / Facebook

Address: 1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay, WI 54304

For football fans, the historic home of the Green Bay Packers is well worth a visit if you’re in northern Wisconsin. The iconic ground – nicknamed the “frozen tundra,” is the oldest stadium with a continuous NFL team in residence in the United States.

Located in Green Bay, the main attraction is, of course, getting the chance to see a game. And although Packers tickets are like gold dust, if you plan well in advance, you might just be lucky enough to witness the famous green and gold in action.

But even if you can’t catch a game, there’s still the hall of fame and stadium tour, which are both packed with fascinating information and insights into one of the NFL’s most passionately followed teams. And don’t forget to enhance your Green Bay visit with a Packers Heritage Trail Segway Tour. Go Pack Go!

7. New Glarus Brewing Company

New Glarus Brewing Company facility
New Glarus Brewing Company / Facebook

Address: 2400 WI-69, New Glarus, WI 53574

Wisconsin is as famous for its beer as it is for its cheese, and if you ask any local for the number one draught of choice, they’re almost guaranteed to say something that’s made by the New Glarus Brewing Company.

The iconic craft brewery is located just under 40 minutes from Madison and offers a world-class self-guided tour, tasting room, and outstanding gift shop, as well as reservation-only hard hat tours for the more dedicated beer lovers and aficionados out there.

Set on a picturesque hill close to the town of New Glarus, the area itself is worth visiting, particularly for outdoor enthusiasts. There’s plenty to see and do if you’re into hiking and biking trails – including the Sugar River State Trail, which follows 24 miles of abandoned railway track and connects four small towns.

The New Glarus Brewing Company has a year-round and seasonal brewing calendar, so make sure you check to see when your favorite tipple will be in its prime.

Be warned though – their extensive and tasty selection is only available here in Wisconsin. You’ll find that many beer fans cross state lines to come back and pick up the likes of Spotted Cow, Moon Man, and Two Women lagers and ales. So don’t forget to bring a selection home!

8. Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

Ripley's Believe It or Not! building on Wisconsin Dells
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! / Facebook

Address: 115 Broadway Avenue, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

The astonishing display at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in Wisconsin Dells will boggle your mind…believe it or not. The museum is an 8,500-square-foot attraction with unusual exhibits, and you’ll find yourself embarking on an adventure of discovery.

The gallery’s collection ranges from modest pieces to enormous collections like large dinosaur skeletons and micro-miniature sculptures. You can see giant automobile robots, documents, and photographs.

The “Odditorium” comprises eight fascinating galleries that showcase crazy exhibits and works of art, and there are interactive puzzles and other exciting treasures to experience. It features two sit-down cinemas and a moving theater that will leave you hanging on the edge of your seat.

If you’re looking for an amazing and one-of-a-kind day out for the whole family, then a visit to Ripley’s Believe It or Not! is a must.

See Related: Best Travel Board Games

9. Timbavati Wildlife Park

Giraffe at Timbavati Wildlife Park
Timbavati Wildlife Park / Facebook

Address: 2220 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, WI 53965

Are you looking for a family-friendly day trip? Wisconsin is not only endowed with breathtaking scenery, but it is also home to several wildlife preserves.

The Timbavati Wildlife Park is one of the most enjoyable to visit. It’s a veritable animal kingdom where you can get up close and personal with multiple species.

As you enter the park, you are welcomed by some gangly flamingos and other water birds having a paddle. Aside from birds, the park is home to big cats, small mammals, reptiles, and agricultural animals. Beyond the wildlife, the park offers several other attractions like the theater, snack bar, and a ride on the Safari Train.

If you’re an animal lover, you should also check out the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s an urban wildlife refuge and is one of the largest wildlife rehabilitation sites in the state. 

Planning to stay nearby? The Best Western Ambassador Inn & Suites and Hilton Garden Inn are ideally located for anyone exploring the hundreds of other Wisconsin attractions in the area.

See RelatedBest Things to Do in La Crosse, Wisconsin

10. Pabst Mansion

The Pabst Mansion Museum building in Milwaukee, Wisconsin
MaxyM / Shutterstock.com

Address: 2000 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233

One of the best places to visit for history and art enthusiasts is the Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its beauty, historical significance, and well-preserved features have made it famous. It’s a great attraction to visit on any Milwaukee tour.

Initially, it was constructed for Captain Frederick Pabst, father of the Pabst Brewing Company, and his family in 1892. It is considered one of America’s few surviving examples of the Flemish Renaissance Revival style.

Since 1975, the mansion has been open to the public as a museum that displays original art and artifacts from the Pabst family collection. It remains one of Milwaukee’s most extensive and expensive structures ever built, standing majestically in the heart of one of America’s most prominent beer cities.

When you enter Pabst Mansion, you are greeted with a tour that details the mansion’s history. During the tour, you’ll learn about the lovely interiors, the beautiful art collections, and the sumptuous furnishings.

The Pabst Mansion proves that beauty isn’t limited to the Wisconsin countryside, but can also be found within an estate that has endured for generations in one of Wisconsin’s industrial communities.

See Related: 19 Real, Magical Castles in Fairytales to Visit

11. Cave Point County Park

Cave Point in Wisconsin
John Kees / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0

Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235

Another great park on our list is the must-visit Cave Point County Park in Door County in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The park is well-known for its picturesque vistas, its wave-worn dolomite/limestone ledges, underwater caves, and a stirring view of Lake Michigan.

Three families gave the land for Cave Point County Park to the county in 1943 and 1945 for preservation. They are George and Mabel Hanson, Mike and Louise Lyons, and John and Florence Reynolds.

Cave Point comes under the protection of Whitefish Dunes State Park, which is the fifth state park located in Door County. No other county in Wisconsin has more.

This park is the perfect place to relax and take a scenic picnic if you’re not a thrill junkie. It has a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the eastern edge of the Door Peninsula. Moreover, Cave Point provides impressive views of the sunrise and sunset over the water. Kayak tours are one of the best activities to enjoy here.

But given its peaceful, relaxing ambiance, this does not mean that you can’t participate in various adrenaline-pumping activities. Aside from kayaking among the caves and coves, underwater cave exploring, fat tire E-bike tours, and rock climbing are just a few of the activities available in this park and nearby areas.

See Related: 8 Best National Parks in the Midwest (+ NPS Sites)

12. Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee Art Museum view in Milwaukee City of Wisconsin
nejdetduzen – stock.adobe.com

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

Art lovers rejoice! A trip to Milwaukee isn’t complete without witnessing the great works and masterpieces you’ll discover in the Milwaukee Art Museum, one of the top attractions in Wisconsin, and one of the best art galleries around.

The museum is a work of art in itself and is definitely a sight to see while taking in a Milwaukee tour, especially as it’s positioned on a bluff above Lake Michigan with a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding area.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is home to a variety of art mediums, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts. It features an extensive collection of American works, including the world’s most significant display of Georgia O’Keeffe paintings and collections from the 1960s, and a collection of folk and Haitian art along with a growing number of African art pieces to be enjoyed.

The museum offers a variety of tours, both guided and self-guided, to help you get the most out of your visit.

See RelatedBest Things to Do in Milwaukee

13. Old World Wisconsin

Historic home in Old World Wisconsin
William / Adobe Stock

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

In Waukesha County, never pass by the opportunity to spend the day at Old World Wisconsin, and learn about life in rural America. It’s no doubt that this is definitely one of the most exciting things to do in Wisconsin for kids, and even for adults.

The museum covers the State’s history from the 1840s to the 1910s, with notable exhibitions portraying living conditions and parts of daily life for settlers in nineteenth-century Wisconsin. Guests can explore the sensory-rich settings, hear stories and engage in a hands-on tour as the museum highlights tales of the State’s history.

Meanwhile, some areas of the museum also represent the customs of different ethnic groups who came to the State to make new homes for themselves. As you examine each of the exhibits, you will become immersed in this fun and educational experience, at one of the most popular Wisconsin tourist attractions.

See RelatedBest Portable Car Seats for Travel

14. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Beautiful peaceful Thai pavilion and reflecting pool in Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, Wisconsin
Eric / Adobe Stock

Address: 3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704

Located in the picturesque state capital city of Madison, Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a one-of-a-kind attraction that offers a magnificent array of domestic and exotic plants and a delightful walk.

Named after its founder, Michael Olbrich, in 1952, the garden consists of an outdoor botanical area of about 16 acres, and a 10,000-square-foot conservatory and greenhouse. Olbrich Botanical Gardens is a lush green haven that plant and nature lovers will adore and also includes a subterranean garden, a reflecting pool, and a babbling stream.

This tropical paradise is the only Thai garden and pavilion in the continental United States, and the site also serves as a popular hub for local events, with a large gift store, live music, and gardening archives.

15. Madison Eats Food Tours

Tourists riding a bike while exploring Madison, Wisconsin
Madison Eats Food Tour / Facebook

When it comes to food and drink, Wisconsin is practically the dinner table of the United States. But with the almost overwhelming selection of food tours, wineries, breweries, restaurants, and culinary hotspots, it can be difficult to choose the very best.

With Madison Eats Food Tours, the hard work is done for you, and you can enjoy a custom-made foodie tour that’s designed around your group, all while exploring some delectable delights in and around the heart of the State capital.

Private and public tours are available, so even if you’re on your own, you can make some new friends as you take in the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Wisconsin food scene.

Alternatively, if you’ve just come for the cheese, then don’t miss another Wisconsin institution. Get yourself on a cheese curd tour in Door County – and see what all the fuss is about!

16. The Milwaukee River Walk

Curved roof rises above nearby buildings adjacent to the Milwaukee River in downtown
Big Joe / Shutterstock.com

Address: N Riverwalk Way, Milwaukee, WI 53202

A visit to Wisconsin would not be complete without a stroll, bike, or jog along the Milwaukee River. The River Walk is a pedestrian path that runs just over five miles along the river’s east bank from downtown Milwaukee to the lakefront.

The River Walk is also a great place to take in the sights and sounds of the city, including the famously whimsical “Bronze Fonze” statue landmark depicting Henry Winkler as his iconic character “the Fonze” from the 1970s TV show Happy Days. A photo opp not to be missed!

It’s just a short walk away from the Historic Third Ward, one of Milwaukee’s most vibrant neighborhoods with various shops, galleries, restaurants, bars, and theaters. Our top pick for the best Wisconsin nightlife spot is also located here, running the length of Water Street.

The River Walk is also a family and pet-friendly place where you can enjoy walking with your pet along the breathtaking scenery of the river.

17. Wizard Quest

Wizard Quest interior in Wisconsin
Wizard Quest / Facebook

Address: 400 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI, 53965

Harry Potter and Dungeons & Dragons fans will be in their element at Wizard Quest. Perfect for those who love solving puzzles and going on adventures, this interactive live-action game lets you enter a world of wizards and magic as you try to solve the mysteries within.

You and your team will be given a set of clues on a portable tablet to help you along the way as you explore a 30,000-square-foot fantasy-themed labyrinth. Children (and children at heart) will enjoy this fun-filled, thrilling attraction for the whole family.

Note that some games will test your physical ability at Wizard Quest, so be prepared to get a little energetic as you solve the riddles, meet the colorful characters, and explore hidden passages.

And it’s not just for kids! Why not bring your work colleagues for a team-building adventure you’ll never forget?

18. Geneva Lake Shore Path

Geneva public beach view in Geneva Town of Wisconsin
Nejdet Duzen / Shutterstock

Not to be confused with Lake Geneva, Switzerland, Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva is a resort town in Walworth County that has attracted wealthy Chicagoans for centuries. Aside from the usual selection of indoor and outdoor exhibits and attractions, it’s notable for a walkway that needs to be seen to be believed.

The Geneva Lake Shore Path is a hiking trail that meanders past and through the lawns of stunning mansions and gilded-age dwellings, most of which were built by those aforementioned wealthy visitors from nearby Chicago, keen to escape the Windy City for some summertime R&R.

As such, the area has become a relaxation haven, with luxury resorts, spas, restaurants, boutique shopping, and more, all set in a backdrop of natural beauty. Try a self-guided audio tour on the Geneva Lake Shore Path to get the most out of your visit.

And our top accommodation pick – the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is also located close by. If you’re looking for an all-inclusive retreat with everything you could possibly want on your doorstep, a trip to Lake Geneva should definitely be on your radar.

See Related: 12 Best Day Trips From Chicago, Illinois

19. Rick Wilcox Magic Theater

Rick Wilcox Magic Theater building in Wisconsin
Rick Wilcox Magic Theater / Facebook

Address: 1670 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

This intimate black-box-style theater is one of the best places to see live magic shows in the Midwest. The show features sleight-of-hand and grand illusions and a little bit of audience participation. At the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater, adults and children of all ages will enjoy the shows, which are family-friendly and appropriate for all audiences.

The theater is located in town, just a short walk from many of the area’s hotels and attractions. Rick and Susan’s 90-minute magic show is one of the highlights of a visit to this popular tourist area.

They put on a performance that can give even the finest magic shows in Las Vegas a run for their money and is some of the best live entertainment in Wisconsin.

20. Witches Gulch

Trail in Witches Gulch, Wisconsin
Jacob / Adobe Stock

The Witches Gulch is a famous gorge in Wisconsin Dells that the Wisconsin River has carved out over thousands of years. The gorge walls are lined with limestone and sandstone cliffs that are up to 100 feet high in some places.

This natural wonder is home to an eclectic array of flora and fauna, and hiking trails meander their way through the spooky canyon. The tight passageways are often lined with stunning mossy formations. Open all year round, it’s an incredibly atmospheric experience and a great place to hike, go birdwatching, or simply enjoy scenic views.

Please note that the only accessible way to Witches Gulch is by taking the Upper Dells Boat Tour. Not only does it take you to the rock formations, but it also provides you with many breathtaking sights along the way.

21. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Raspberry Island Lighthouse in Wisconsin on Lake Superior in the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
khalid / Adobe Stock

Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814

Situated in northern Wisconsin, on Lake Superior, there is a gorgeous archipelago consisting of a stretch of shoreline with no less than 21 islands. Welcome to the Apostle Islands.

The area is known for a visually stunning series of sea caves in a red stone rock cliff trail. It is accessible by a five-mile-long walk along the ridgeline. Aside from the island’s gorgeous scenery and natural beauty, it is also home to black bears, and 240 species of birds, including the majestic bald eagle.

And it’s worth noting that Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has more lighthouses than any other park in the US. You’ll discover nine historic lighthouse towers and places of immense historical significance.

For the adventurous, hiking, sailing, and kayaking are among the most popular Lake Superior activities in the region. Charter fishing is also a big draw to the area when it comes to outdoor recreation.

Book your vacation at one of these top areas to stay in Bayfield County, or check out this article on the best cabin rentals on Lake Superior. Either way, there are plenty of places to hang your hat after a day exploring one of the most beautiful Wisconsin tourist attractions.

See Related: Best Things to Do in Superior

22. Bookworm Gardens

Small girl wearing a fairy costume at Bookworm Gardens
Bookworm Gardens / Facebook

Address: 1415 Campus Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53081

If you love to read, visiting the Bookworm Gardens in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is one of the most enjoyable things you can do in the city.

Bookworm Gardens is a botanical garden that displays beautiful flowers and diverse types of plants. It is situated close to the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan, approximately one hour north of Milwaukee and one hour south of Green Bay.

Throughout the garden, there are displays of books that celebrate the works of Wisconsin authors. The garden also has amenities that provide excellent outdoor recreation opportunities.

Considered a one-of-a-kind public garden, this educational attraction has been designed to inspire children’s love of reading and nature through interactive plantings, sculptures, and buildings based on popular children’s stories.

The picnic area in the garden is also accessible, where families can come to explore, learn, and play together in a safe and beautiful outdoor setting.

The Bookworm Gardens is one of those Wisconsin attractions that is only open during specific seasons, so we recommend visiting between May and October.

See RelatedFun & Best Things to Do in Appleton

23. Devil’s Lake State Park

Areal view on the South shore beach and lake from rocky ice age hiking trail during sunset. Devil's Doorway location. Devil's Lake State Park, Baraboo
Maryna / Adobe Stock

Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913

Grab your best walking boots and expect an exciting outdoor adventure at Devil’s Lake, which is regarded as the finest of Wisconsin’s stunning selection of state parks. And it’s certainly the largest, covering some 9,217 acres, and boasting spectacular views from its 500-foot quartzite bluffs that overlook a 360-acre lake.

The state park is located in eastern Sauk County, Wisconsin, along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, where visitors can engage in an extensive range of outdoor activities, such as hiking on trails and swimming at the beach. Families can also enjoy picnics surrounded by gorgeous vistas, along with park paddling, and camping opportunities.

The Devil’s Lake State Park features three campgrounds: the Quartzite Campground, Ice Age Campground, and Northern Lights Campground. All these campgrounds have a capacity of 423 campsites and nine group campsites with a combined total of 240 campers.

If you don’t fancy staying in the park, Baraboo is close by, and we recommend the comfortable Ringling House Bed & Breakfast.

See Related: Fun Things to Do Baraboo

19. Rocky Arbor State Park

Trail in Rocky Arbor State Park
Archbob / Wikimedia Commons, CC0

Address: N101 US Hwy. 12 and 16, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

Just off the Wisconsin River, the Rocky Arbor State Park is one of the most popular state parks for visitors. It was established in 1932 in order to conserve its sandstone bluffs that have been transformed into magnificent cliffs and ledges.

It is located in the town of Dodgeville in southwest Wisconsin and situated on more than 1,000 acres of land. Even though camping is one of the most appealing activities in the park, visitors can also hike, enjoy a picnic, and take a ride on the park’s scenic train. 

Rocky Arbor State Park’s campground features approximately 89 woodland campsites equipped with showers and toiletries. The wooded camping grounds, one-mile hiking trail, picnic area, and play area are all available and accessible in the park.

The area is open all year round and is particularly popular during the colder climes when visitors enjoy winter hiking, snow-shoeing, and cross-country skiing.

25. Circus World Museum

Circus World Museum in Wisconsin
Wizard Quest, Wisconsin / Circus World Museum

Address: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913

For those in the know, the Ringling brothers were among the most famous circus families on Earth, and they founded the Circus World Museum in 1884. One of the most colorful Wisconsin tourist attractions, it moved to Baraboo in 1918 and consists of a large complex that contains a museum, a circus school, and a performing arts center.

The museum is devoted to circus history and contains an extensive collection of circus memorabilia. The circus school offers acrobatic training, clowning, and other circus arts classes.

You can also visit the library and research center that houses a collection of books, documents, and other materials related to the history of the circus.

Along the way, you can experience the joy and excitement of being a child again as acrobats, clowns, aerial and trapeze artists, and other circus performers entertain and thrill visitors. And don’t miss Mr. Bill’s clowning legend bringing the circus to life before your eyes.

Ride the old-school wooden carousel, view the museum’s fascinating historical exhibits, and even take pictures with a unicorn!

Note that live circus events only take place throughout the summer season, which typically runs from mid-May to late August.

26. The Harley-Davidson Museum

Many Harley Davidson Motorcyclists attending Hometown Rally at Harley Davidson museum
Aaron of L.A. Photography / Shutterstock.com

Address: 400 W Canal St, Milwaukee, WI 53201

Do you love motorcycles? Do you drool over the thought of getting your hands on a Harley-Davidson? Then there’s one Wisconsin museum you simply cannot miss if you’re heading anywhere near these parts.

An emporium of all things Harley, the Harley-Davidson Museum is a great place to learn about the history of this iconic brand. You’ll get to see some great motorcycles at the museum and learn about the people who created a legend.

The museum is located a stone’s throw from Lake Michigan, in Milwaukee, where the company was founded back in 1903, and where it’s headquartered today. This is a must-visit attraction, and this skip-the-line admission ticket is sure to get your motor running even if you’re not a motorcycle enthusiast.

27. National Railroad Museum

Exhibit at National Railroad Museum
National Railroad Museum / Facebook

Address: 2285 S Broadway, Ashwaubenon, WI 54304

The National Railroad Museum is the perfect place for anyone who loves trains. The museum is home to an extensive collection of steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, and electric locomotives. There are also several model trains on display, as well as other railroad artifacts and exhibits.

Located in the city of Green Bay, visitors to the National Railroad Museum can explore the evolution of rail travel, see famous locomotives up close, and even purchase small trains from the gift shop.

This is an essential attraction if you’re interested in learning about America’s rich railroad history.

28. Bay Beach Amusement Park

Sunset view at Bay Beach Amusement Park in Wisconsin
Bay Beach Amusement Park / Facebook

Address: 1313 Bay Beach Rd, Green Bay, WI 54302

There’s no better place to cool off and have some fun on a hot summer day than Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This family-friendly destination has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to delicious food so that you can refuel after a day of exploration.

The park first opened in 1892 and has been a beloved spot for locals and tourists. If you’re looking for a thrill, hop on the Zippin Pippin, one of the oldest roller coasters in the country. Or take a spin on the Tilt-A-Whirl, a classic carnival ride that you’ll need a strong stomach for!

With over 22 traditional rides, there’s plenty to keep you entertained, and no matter your age, you’re sure to have a blast at Bay Beach Amusement Park.

FAQ

What are the top tourist attractions in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin is home to an abundance of tourist attractions that cater to a wide range of tastes, but I would say the top five include a visit to the home of the Green Bay Packers, hiking in the Devil’s Lake state park, enjoying any number of the food and drink tours, a visit to the State Capitol building in Madison, and kayaking and exploring sea caves on Lake Superior.

What are some outdoor activities to do in Wisconsin?

Perhaps the better question would be – what can’t you do outdoors in Wisconsin?! Joking aside, just some of the outdoor activities this state has to offer are hiking and biking trails, camping, climbing, kayaking, swimming, geocaching, horseback riding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, and more. You can even take in a private flyboard lesson if you’re brave enough!

What are the must-see historical sites in Wisconsin?

History buffs will have plenty to choose from in this part of the world, but the historical sites that you shouldn’t miss include Old World Wisconsin, the State Capitol building in Madison, the Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee, any number of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, and his Taliesin Preservation Center.

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Use Skyscanner to find flight deals. As my personal favorite flight search engine, Skyscanner scours websites and airlines across the globe, leaving no stone unturned to help you find the best deal possible. And if you really want to take your savings to new heights, pair Skyscanner with Going (Formerly Scott's Cheap Flights). With access to exclusive mistake fares delivered straight to your inbox, you'll be packing your bags and jetting off on your next adventure before you know it.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is a low cost way to ensure your travel plans go smooth no matter what's thrown at it. Cover yourself against illness, injury and theft, and protect the arrangements you've made with our flexible travel cancellation insurance. My favorite options for travel insurance are:

Book Your Accommodation
In order to capture the widest selection of properties and the best price, use Booking.com as they have the cheapest rates for guesthouses, hotels, luxury condos, B&Bs and so much more.

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Discover the Best Travel Tools
Be sure to visit our page on our favorite travel resources to learn how you too can visit over 10 countries in year.