Wisconsin is a gorgeous state. With 800+ miles of coastline, an area with 50 percent forest coverage, and 15,000 lakes (take that, Minnesota), the state has no lack of natural wonder—and few sizeable crowds. Outdoors, you’ll find cozy lakeside cabins and plenty of things to do, including the 1,200-mile (1,931-kilometer) Ice Age Trail, the kayak-able Apostle Islands, and so much more to explore. Indoors, you’ll find a curious dedication to all things old-school delicious: Think cheese curds, supper-club fish fries, and beers from “Brew City.” Come ready to take it easy, and Wisconsin will take it from there.
Nothing beats Wisconsin in September and October. The weather is still warm, the football games are back on, and can’t-miss festivals—like Eagle River’s Cranberry Fest—line the docket. In Madison, the students are back and the beer is flowing at Union Terrace on Lake Mendota; in Milwaukee, the summer festival lineup culminates in Oktoberfest—don’t forget that Wisconsin’s biggest city was built on German lager.
Unless you’re staying put somewhere like downtown Madison or Milwaukee, you’ll want a car—though bus networks between the state’s biggest cities, all in the southern portion of the state, are well-served. Up north like in Hayward, be sure you have four-wheel drive come winter, and carry a shovel in your trunk if you’re staying a while. Snowshoes aren’t a bad idea, either, and can lead to spontaneous fun.
This isn’t the Arctic Circle. Summers are hot, and bug spray and sunscreen are summer essentials—don’t be the tourist who’s surprised it’s 85ºF (29ºC). Winters can be anything from snowy and cold to grilling weather; in other words, you never really know, so pack accordingly. Once you know what to wear, find out what to do by hitting up your first server or bartender—they’ll have opinions on the best local cheese curds and more.
Local Currency US Dollar ($) | Time Zone CDT (UTC -6) | Country Code +1 | Language(s) English | Attractions 17 | Tours 130 | Reviews 2,210 |
Yes. There are so many fun things to do in Wisconsin—after all, the state has 800+ miles of coastline. Culture hounds should post up in Milwaukee, exploring old-school breweries and supper clubs; outdoorsy folks should hike on the Ice Age National Scenic Trail, which winds for some 1,200 miles (1,931 kilometers); and waterfall chasers should head north toward Lake Superior, witnessing spots like Big Manitou Falls.
...MoreThough the Green Bay Packers’ Lambeau Field gives it a run for its money, the number one tourist attraction in Wisconsin is likely Wisconsin Dells, the “Waterpark Capital of the World.” But beyond family-friendly theme park adventures, you’ll find spectacular sandstone gorges and cliffs, aka “dells,” that give the town its name.
...MoreWisconsin is best known for two timeless tastes: beer and cheese. (Sometimes combined over football games.) The Dairy State makes over 600 varieties of cheese, many of which can be sampled at local restaurants and farmers markets. As for beer, you’re spoiled for choice—though Milwaukee isn’t called “Brew City” for nothing.
...MoreMany people will argue the prettiest place in Wisconsin is the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore—with sandstone caves and historic lighthouses, the 21 islands dotting Lake Superior make for great adventures in any season. Other contenders include Devil’s Lake State Park and Pattison State Park, home to the state’s tallest waterfall.
...MoreYes, Wisconsin is a great place to travel—you’ll be able to choose from historic cities, ocean-like views on two Great Lakes, woodsy getaways (the state is 50 percent forested!), and more. Where you go will depend on what you’re looking for: You’ll find water adventures in Door County, great public art in Milwaukee, a classic Big 10 scene in Madison, and more.
...MoreSeptember is a fantastic time to visit Wisconsin. You’ll get warm (but not too warm) temperatures, sunny days, and fantastic events like Milwaukee’s Oktoberfest. School’s back in session, too, which means fewer crowds at touristed spots like the Apostle Islands, in addition to Packer and Badger games back on the football schedule.
...More
