Wisconsin Travel Guide
A Cheese Heaven and So Much More…
Wisconsin is truly a gem of a state and one that often flies under the radar for many travelers, but IYKYK, Wisconsin is cool.
Okay, let’s just start by saying I freaking love cheese. Wisconsin is known as “America’s Dairyland,” and the state’s fame for its cheese is legendary. And as a cheese lover, the destination did not disappoint when it came to its cheese game.
Wisconsin isn’t just about cheese, even if that is enough reason for me. Wisconsin is full of incredible places to visit from its cities to its picturesque small towns, all of which has a Midwest charm about it.
One thing you don’t want to miss are the local tradition of supper clubs — these aren’t your typical restaurants. It’s stepping into a cozy, family-run spot where the emphasis is on hearty meals, classic cocktails, and a fun atmosphere. There’s an old-school vibe about them too and supper clubs are quintessentially Wisconsin.
Cities like Milwaukee and Madison are great getaways, great small towns, and plenty of places to enjoy in the outdoors!
Plus if you’re an architecture lover, there are plenty of Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and sites including his home; Taliesin, historic and cultural Native American sites including several effigy mounds, and quirky attractions like the National Mustard Museum.
Quick Tips for Visiting Wisconsin
When is the best time to visit Wisconsin?
The best time to visit Wisconsin is during the summer from June to August. This is the most popular season to visit as the weather is warm and comfortable and the season offers an ideal climate for enjoying outdoor activities!
In spring (March to May), the weather is mild with blooming flowers and thawing lakes, making it great for hiking.
Fall (September to November) brings crisp air and still comfortable temperatures, plus you have a chance to see stunning foliage, perfect for scenic drives.
Winter (December to February) is colder weather and snow is common.
How Much Time Do I need in Wisconsin?
How much time you need in Wisconsin depends on what you want to cover. If you’re focusing on a city like Milwaukee or Madison, a long weekend of 3-4 days is a great amount of time.
To cover more of the state, plan at least a week so you can visit a city and tie in some small towns, parks, and more of what the state has to offer.
What is Wisconsin most famous for?
Wisconsin is most famous for its dairy industry, earning it the nickname “America’s Dairyland.”
The cheese in Wisconsin is famous, with varieties like cheddar and Colby and cheese curds are very popular.
Wisconsin is also celebrated for its vibrant beer culture, home to iconic breweries like Miller and craft brewers scattered throughout the state.
Their landscape includes rolling farmland, stunning lakes, and forests.
Wisconsin is also famous for its unique dining experience at supper clubs.
The state has a lively football fan base for the Green Bay Packers.
Wisconsin is also famous for architecture, particularly for the Frank Lloyd Wright-designed buildings like Taliesin and the Prairie School style that originated here by Wright in the early 20th century.
What’s the best way to get around Wisconsin?
The best way to get around Wisconsin is by car as you can enjoy a road trip and get around the state’s offerings at your own pace.
Cities like Milwaukee and Madison offer public transportation options and in some cases, it’s convenient to have a car to get around.
Must Try Food in Wisconsin
There are a lot of must try foods in Wisconsin. I tried my best to cover the big ones, let me know if I missed any! There are ALOT.
In Wisconsin, you have to try the cheese curds, deep-fried to golden perfection and served squeaky fresh. Best paired with a local craft beer. Also try cheddar cheese and Colby cheese!
Another must-try food in Wisconsin is the butter burger, a juicy patty topped with a generous slab of butter on a toasted bun—often found in supper clubs.
Speaking of, supper clubs are a unique Wisconsin tradition. They are a traditional restaurant known for its nostalgic ambiance, hearty meal options like steaks, fish fry, and offering classic cocktails. It’s typically a social gathering and you have to try their unique take on an Old Fashioned.
The Brandy Old Fashioned is made with brandy, muddled fruit (cherries and oranges), bitters, soda, and garnished with olives or a cherry.
Be sure to try bratwurst, a staple popular in Wisconsin from its ties to German immigrants in the 19th-century.
Beer cheese soup is another Wisconsin classic, combining creamy cheese with beer, creating a dish that reflects the state’s dairy and brewing legacies.
Friday night fish frys are also popular communal gatherings, we got to attend one on the waterfront with live music during our stay with locally caught lake fish fried to perfection.
For a sweet treat, try a kringle! This flaky Danish pastry is filled with sweet cheese, fruits or nuts and are incredibly delicious. They are in Racine but you can find them elsewhere, I even find them at Trader Joe’s in NYC!
