6 Things You Can’t Miss on a Wisconsin Sightseeing Trip
Whether you’re fitting a trip into your kids’ summer vacation or hoping for an exciting winter getaway, it’s hard to beat the huge range of Wisconsin tourist destinations. After all, over 100 million travelers who visit each year can’t be wrong!
Of course, with tens of thousands of square miles of stunning natural beauty and varied city attractions to choose from, it can be hard to narrow down your itinerary. How do you decide which areas are worth the road trip?
We’ve got you covered. Let’s take a look at a few of the best places you’ll want to put on your Wisconsin sightseeing list.
1. Oshkosh
Located on Lake Winnebago, Oshkosh is a small town that’s become famous for the line of children’s clothing named after it. However, there’s another popular attraction that makes this location well worth the visit: the annual Airventure Show.
Held every summer at Wittman Regional Airport, the Airventure show is a gathering of aviation enthusiasts. The event lasts a week, during which Oshkosh’s control tower becomes the busiest in the world, with around 15,000 planes in attendance. Visitors will have the chance to see a huge range of daring displays from both current and vintage aircraft.
It’s worth noting that the city itself is well worth the visit even outside of this yearly event. Surrounded by lakes and rivers and boasting a stunning historic downtown, Oshkosh is a great location for families and adventure-seekers alike. In addition, there are plenty of opportunities for either a summer or winter cabin rental near picturesque Green Lake area for anyone hoping to explore the great outdoors.
2. Apostle Islands
Just off the coast of Lake Superior are 21 islands that are rich with sea caves, forests, and a range of natural wildlife and geological formations. Known as the Apostle Islands, this area is only accessible by water, though it’s possible to take a car via the ferry to Madeline Island.
If you’re an outdoor enthusiast hoping to find things to do in Wisconsin, you can’t beat the opportunities here! From hiking and camping to scuba diving and kayaking, there are plenty of activities worth trying on these gorgeous red stone islands. History buffs will love the chance to visit historic buildings and lighthouses, and thrill-seekers may even enjoy diving to see the remnants of shipwrecks scattered around the islands!
3. Wisconsin Dells
If you’re seeking Wisconsin tourist attractions that will entertain your kids, be sure to give Wisconsin Dells a shot. Though the city got its name for its location on the scenic Wisconsin River, it’s become best known as the waterpark capital of the world. With over 21 water parks—both indoor and outdoor—you can have a blast in your swimsuit year-round.
Even better, water parks are far from the only attractions in the area. A plethora of fun attractions has cropped up throughout this popular getaway, from minigolf courses and escape rooms to go-cart rides. For those hoping to take in the area’s natural beauty, it’s also possible to take boating tours of the river or to explore the area’s scenic bluffs and wildlife along the expansive wilderness trails.
4. Milwaukee
Want to get a taste of everything a big city can offer during your Wisconsin road trip? Milwaukee is a safe bet for any vacation, as there’s something for everyone on Lake Michigan’s southwestern shore.
Touring the most popular beer giants in “Brew City”—including Miller Brewery and Lakefront Brewery—is a great way to learn more about the brewery culture as a whole. Stay in the city with a trip to the Harley-Davidson Museum, Milwaukee County Zoo, and the Milwaukee Art Museum, or venture outside of it by hiking the thousand-mile Ice Age Trail in Kettle Moraine State Forest.
5. Blue Mounds
As a small village in the south of the state, Blue Mounds is easy to miss on most Wisconsin scenic drives.
However, the region surrounding it is known for its camping opportunities as well as its miles of hiking, biking, and ski trails, and its proximity to the state capital makes it easy to visit. In addition, there’s one more Blue Mounds attraction you won’t want to miss: Cave of the Mounds.
Step inside, and you’ll understand why it’s a designated National Natural Landmark. Lights and walkways guide visitors past stunning limestone formations, with expansive walking trails and year-round tours on offer. Picnic areas, rock gardens, and opportunities for gem and fossil mining make this a great idea for a family trip as well.
6. Egg Harbor
As the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County is famous for its picturesque shoreline and historic landmarks. A range of 19th-century villages dot the narrow peninsula, but the town of Egg Harbor is perhaps the best getaway for travelers.
Though it boasts plenty of small-town charm, the area in and around the village is interspersed with modern attractions like shops, spas, art galleries, and golf courses. Kayaking expeditions, hiking, and scenic driving tours are on offer to pad out trip itinerary, as well as tours of local farms and orchards.
Make the Most of Your Wisconsin Sightseeing Adventure
From scenic drives to water parks to city tours, there’s plenty to do on your Wisconsin sightseeing trip. However, if you’re short on time, the places above are hard to beat! Whether you aim to enjoy a thrilling kayak tour around the Apostle Islands or an exciting aircraft display in Oshkosh, make sure to factor these stunning areas into your itinerary.
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