If the Midwest is on your bucket list, let your next adventure take you to Wisconsin. It’s one of those destinations you wouldn’t regret.
Your journey will take you from vibrant cities and enchanting small towns to the shores of The Great Lakes and scenic state parks distinguished by bluffs.
By the end of your adventure, you will likely develop a great love for the Badger State, and who knows, you may pack up and move to Wisconsin.
Let’s pique your interest further with these must-visit state attractions in Wisconsin.
- Milwaukee Art Museum
The Milwaukee Art Museum has gone through many phases that have cemented it in the state’s history. It’s an iconic establishment that gives off the Sydney Opera House vibes with its arched pavilion.
While the museum is located in the heart of the city beside high-rise buildings, it also sits on Lake Michigan’s shore, making for a stunning view.
History buffs will love the stories behind many works of art that call the museum home. You’ll also get to view several masterpieces from old-world and contemporary artists.
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore
Wisconsin may not have a seashore, but that matters little when it borders two of the Great Lakes. And if you visit the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, it would feel like you’re somewhere in the Pacific dotted with magnificent islands.
The lakeshore’s 12-mile mainland coast and 21 islands offer breathtaking windswept beaches, sea caves, and sandstone cliffs.
A tour of the archipelago gives you a glimpse of the hundreds of bird species in their natural habitat.
The lakeshore is a recreational area with plenty of activities to enhance your experience. Cruise and kayak tours are the best way to explore the islands and their features, like caves and lighthouses.
If you’re into hiking, the park offers over 50 miles of scenic trails with features like farm sites and stunning overlooks.
- Wisconsin Dells Waterpark
Known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, Wisconsin Dells won’t fail to impress you.
The city is home to one of the world’s architectural marvels, a series of waterparks featuring hundreds of waterslides.
Two of the most popular water parks in the Dells include the nation’s largest waterpark, Noah’s Ark Water Park, and Mt. Olympus Water and Theme Park.
Besides the waterparks, the city is also home to natural attractions in wildlife parks like the Wisconsin Deer Park and Original Wisconsin Ducks, which offer an impressive wilderness experience.
- Harley-Davidson Museum
You don’t need to know much about motorbikes to know what Harley-Davidson means. Films and biker groups have certainly popularized these high-end bikes that sport one of the most distinct designs in motorcycle history.
If you’re a motorcycle fan, a history buff, or want to get up close and personal with some of the most coveted and rare Harleys, stop at the museum while in Milwaukee.
Besides seeing what goes on behind the scenes in the making of Harleys, you can sit on some and see if they suit you.
The museum is anything but all metal and bland. Many bikes on display have been a part of history.
For instance, the iconic WLA models were instrumental in World War II and used by the US Armed Forces and its Allies.
- Wisconsin State Capitol
Everyone agrees that the US Capitol Building is one of the most impressive buildings in the world. It’s just as grand as it is historically significant.
Well, it has a rival in the Wisconsin State Capitol.
Unlike the Capitol Building’s 19th-century neoclassical architecture, the WSC features a Roman Renaissance style.
If you never got a chance to visit the Nation’s Capitol Building, try the Wisconsin State Capitol.
- Olbrich Botanical Gardens
You know there’s something to it when Trip.com rates the botanical garden as 3rd best top attraction in Dane County while Tripadvisor ranks it at 8th out of 15 best things to do in the state.
Located in Madison, the Olbrich Botanical Gardens offers 16 acres of breathtaking natural beauty with hundreds of plants. These are featured in unique garden designs. You’ll find a sunken garden, herb garden, rock garden, perennial garden, etc.
The garden excels by blending modern features with rustic elements immersed in a wild paradise. The balance creates one of the most picturesque gardens you’ll ever see outside a storybook.
- Lake Mendota
In the heart of Madison sits Lake Mendota, a freshwater lake featuring rocky shores surrounded by the city’s skyline. It’s a popular site for locals and visitors taking a break from the city’s busy streets.
Watch the sunset on the docks or participate in various popular water sports like boating, sailing, kayaking, water skiing, and fishing.
You’ll love Lake Mendota, but watch out for the rules. You don’t want to dive off the pier or smoke weed on the lake. As an out-of-state visitor, it’s crucial to learn about medical and adult-use cannabis in the state.
Conclusion
Whether you’re into the outdoors, urban dining and entertainment, or history, you’ll find plenty of places in Wisconsin that appeal to your interests. You can start with popular, must-see attractions and broaden your experience further with hidden gems.
