One of the northernmost states in the USA, Wisconsin, is characterized by diverse landscapes and a rich culture. Bordering the Great Lakes of Michigan and Superior, it attracts tourists with its expanses and attractions.
To the north and west of the state, picturesque hills stretch out, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures. The lowlands to the south and east are renowned for their dairy farming and beautiful landscapes.
While many of Wisconsin’s cultural gems are found in its major cities such as Madison and Milwaukee, attention should be paid to smaller communities like Spring Green, where one can appreciate the works of the great architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
Embarking on a journey to explore the landmarks of Wisconsin is made effortless with Comfort Express Inc, a bus company offering bus rental services for group excursions throughout the state.
The state is famous for its diverse cultural events, including the massive airshow in Oshkosh and the popular summer festival in Milwaukee.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities here for fishing, boating, as well as exploring some of the finest hiking and biking trails in the country.
Editor’s Pick: Oshkosh
The small town of Oshkosh, situated on the shores of Lake Winnebago northwest of Milwaukee, is renowned for its two unique features: a popular children’s clothing line and its world record in aviation. Here in Oshkosh, since 1970, the world’s largest event for aviators, EAA AirVenture, has been held annually.
During the week-long extravaganza, Oshkosh’s control tower becomes the busiest spot on the planet: up to 15,000 aircraft of all shapes and sizes converge at the local airport, along with roughly a million visitors who gather here to enjoy thrilling aerial displays and flights on vintage and modern military aircraft.
Additionally, the outstanding EAA AirVenture Museum should not be missed, with its extensive collection of over 200 aircraft.
Address: EAA Aviation Center, Shore Road, 3000, Oshkosh
Taliesin East: Gem of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Creativity
One of the most influential historical figures associated with the state of Wisconsin was Frank Lloyd Wright. His significant contributions to architecture remain alive and impressive throughout the state where he was born and spent much of his life.
Numerous projects by this eminent architect can be seen in various corners of Wisconsin. Among them stand out the Monona Terrace Convention Center, situated on the shores of Lake Monona in Madison (though constructed posthumously, it was based on Wright’s original plans), and the Greek Orthodox Church in Milwaukee. However, special attention is drawn to Taliesin East – his primary creative abode.
This magnificent estate, situated on 600 acres of beautiful rural countryside, began construction in 1911 and continued to evolve until Wright’s death in 1959.
Visitors can take tours of the house, theater, studio, gallery, and school to fully immerse themselves in the spirit of his greatness.
Additionally, there is an information center with a restaurant where visitors can enjoy excellent service and learn more about the legacy of this outstanding architect.
Address: 5607 County Hwy C, Spring Green
Wisconsin State Capitol
Madison, the capital of Wisconsin, is abundant in landmarks, but one of the most impressive is the Wisconsin State Capitol. Completed in 1917, this majestic hall with a 284-foot dome, just steps away from the Capitol in Washington, D.C., is a true masterpiece.
Tours of the building provide the opportunity to see its internal splendors, including magnificent frescoes and exquisite marble finishes.
One of the best ways to enjoy a view of the Capitol is from the Monona Terrace Convention Center, designed by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright. The view of this grand architectural landmark from this vantage point is simply breathtaking in its magnificence and beauty.
Home of the Hog: Harley-Davidson Museum
Nothing symbolizes “freedom” quite like Harley-Davidson motorcycles, which didn’t go unnoticed in Milwaukee, the birthplace of the famous “Hog.” The best place to immerse yourself in the world of this iconic brand is the Harley-Davidson Museum in this city, where you can encounter over 450 classic motorcycles.
This captivating family attraction also offers excellent exhibitions of famous motorcycle models, as well as exhibits telling the stories of the people and places associated with this legendary brand (besides, there is also a shop and a restaurant on-site).
Address: 400 W. Canal Street, Milwaukee
Circus World Museum
In the small town of Baraboo, Wisconsin, the Circus World Museum is a delightful place for entertainment for children of all ages and immersing oneself in the atmosphere of circus life. This museum, focused on the rich history of circus arts in the country, offers captivating shows that depict the everyday activities of a working circus.
Here, you’ll find plenty of intriguing exhibits allowing you to feel the atmosphere of bygone eras and understand the significance of this entertainment industry, which was once one of the leading in the country.
During the summer, the museum also opens the “Big Top” with regular circus shows featuring traditional acts and performances.
Visitors can enjoy classic acts and astonishing circus performances (it’s recommended to check the museum’s official website for show schedules).
Baraboo holds special significance for this museum, given its historical connection to the circus industry – it was the headquarters of the enormous Ringling Brothers circus, which makes this place even more attractive to enthusiasts of circus arts and entertainment history.
Address: 550 Water Street, Baraboo
Dells of the Wisconsin River
Dells of the Wisconsin River, sometimes known simply as Wisconsin Dells, is an awe-inspiring five-mile gorge on the state’s largest river. This region, often confused with the tourist city of the same name, showcases magnificent natural beauty, adorned with unique sandstone formations, canyons, and cliffs towering up to 100 feet.
The Dells area is also home to a variety of unique flora and fauna, including the rare cudweed, found only in one other place on the planet, and six species of dragonflies.
Due to the fragile ecological state of this area, access is limited, and those wishing to enjoy its beauty must do so by boat. Various tours are available in both the upper and lower parts of this stunningly beautiful region.
Green Bay Packers: Lambeau Stadium and Walk of Legends
The history of the Green Bay Packers is an inspiring tale of how a small town managed to create a top-tier professional sports team. One of the symbols of this team is Lambeau Stadium. Lambeau Field, nearly capable of accommodating the entire city’s population at 72,000, opened in 1957 and remains the longest continually used stadium in the league.
The team, founded in 1919, is the third oldest in the NFL and the only non-profit team in the league owned by the city of Green Bay. A tour of the stadium provides a unique opportunity to peek behind the scenes of a top-tier team’s operations.
In addition to the stadium itself, it’s worth visiting two unique attractions associated with the Packers.
The Walk of Legends is an artful pathway consisting of 24 statues dedicated to the history of football in Green Bay from 1895 to the present day. It’s a fantastic journey through time that brings the team and the city’s history to life.
It’s also recommended to take the Packers Heritage Trail — a walking tour of city landmarks associated with the team to delve even deeper into the rich history of the Packers and their connection to the local community.
Address: 1265 Lombardi Ave, Green Bay
Exploring the Lakes Region
The beautiful Land O’Lakes region is situated between Boulder Junction, Eagle River, and Rhinelander in the northern part of Wisconsin. This area, popular among water sports enthusiasts, is renowned for its more than 200 pristine lakes of various sizes. Campers and tourists particularly cherish this region, perfect for exploration by canoe or kayak.
One of the main attractions is the abundance of flora and fauna, opportunities for fishing and birdwatching, including the chance to see one of the last bald eagles in the area.
The town of Eagle River serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the region. Here, there are also plenty of recreational activities available such as fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and swimming in the summer, as well as skiing and snowmobiling in the winter.
Address: 6484 Hwy 45, Land O’Lakes
Great Open-Air Street: Door County
One of the most beautiful places in Wisconsin is Door County. Located approximately 46 miles northeast of Green Bay, this area boasts outstanding natural beauty on a peninsula overlooking Lake Michigan. This picturesque corner of nature attracts numerous visitors each year for trout fishing, sailing, diving, swimming, as well as hiking and biking.
Among the noteworthy small towns, Fish Creek stands out with its beautiful old lighthouse, one of many similar buildings throughout the state, as well as Ephraim with its old harbor and historic buildings.
Washington Island is also worth a visit and is home to the oldest Icelandic settlement in the country.