23 Best Things to Do in Wisconsin & Places to Visit

Do you want to check out the home of the famous Green Bay Packers or visit the Harley Davidson Museum? How about the epic nature destinations like Cave of the Mounds or Potawatomi State Park?

Nothing beats a journey full of incredible sceneries and breathtaking attractions like Wisconsin. You might even be familiar with the Frank Lloyd Wright museums, Mitchell park horticultural conservatory, or Lake Geneva!

The State offers many indoor and outdoor exhibits and activities that families and groups of friends can enjoy! Starting from exciting adventures, art galleries, and fresh cheese, you can never go wrong with Wisconsin.

So, if you love to book your next travel adventure, make sure to check all the fun things to do in Wisconsin and add them to your itinerary.

Fun & Best Things to do in Wisconsin

Wisconsin is a state with many amazing attractions and events. It would take a lifetime of exploration to see all of them. With everything from art galleries and museums to exciting adventures, this hidden gem of a State has something for everyone!

1. Cave of the Mounds

Address: 2975 Cave of the Mounds Rd, Blue Mounds, WI 53517, United States

The Cave of the Mounds is a natural limestone cave with glistening beauty that you should not miss when you visit the state. This hidden gem is full of incredible rock and mineral formations and mined gemstones, making it a great place to explore for any nature lover!

Aside from being a must-see tourist attraction, the Cave of the Mounds also offers a diverse range of activities. You may go on a cave tour or have a hike on the hiking trails. Visitors can also go cycling, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing.

Upon arrival, a visitor center will present to guide you through various educational tours and a gift shop where you can buy magnificent rocks and trinkets.

The best thing about this is that the cave is open throughout the year, so visitors can see its natural limestone and mineral formations at any time.

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2. Wisconsin State Capitol

Address: 2 E Main St, Madison, WI 53703, United States

The Wisconsin State Capitol building will definitely take you on a journey with incredible insight into the state’s rich history. It boasts stunning mosaics and towering marble columns, making it one of the most beautiful capitol buildings in the United States!

The Wisconsin State Capitol consists of two houses, namely the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the Governor’s Office. All of these are located in the state’s picturesque capital city of Madison, another great city to explore!

In the Wisconsin State Capitol building, you can see the governor’s office, the supreme court, the dome, the assembly senate chambers, and other open areas.

At this place, you can learn about many ethnic and cultural backgrounds of the country and interactive exhibits that will keep both kids and adults entertained. It is also located near the Hilton Garden Inn Madison Downtown, one of the best accommodations in the town.

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3. The House on the Rock

Address: 5754 WI-23, Spring Green, WI 53588, United States

What started as a towering retreat home has blossomed into a unique Wisconsin attraction, the House of the Rock. The House, designed by Alex Jordan, was built in 1960 as a wonderful sanctuary. It is on top of a rock chimney in the beautiful Southern Wisconsin countryside.

But, Alex’s idea extended beyond the House, as he began “collecting” and “constructing” on a large scale. In fact, there are several collections and galleries available, all of which are exotic and one-of-a-kind. So, be prepared to wear your most comfortable clothing and stroll through the House along with hundreds of thousands of visitors each year!

There are also Alex’s loopy lodgings where you can find the largest carousel on Earth! It was constructed with over 269 carousel animals, hundreds of angels fluttering from the ceilings, and over 20,000 lights.

And currently, they now offer a world-class resort, golf course, and spa!

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4. Wisconsin Deer Park

Address: 2183 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

After a lovely trip down the Wisconsin Great River Road, spend the day at a great 40-acre petting zoo, the Wisconsin Deer Park.

This park has been one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin since 1952. For more than 50 years, the park and zoo have provided a unique chance for families and children to explore and spend quality time together.

This family-friendly petting zoo allows you to explore and observe various wildlife up close. It’s also a perfect place to take advantage of the great outdoors and hand-feed the next Bambi!

In fact, you can even possibly feed over 100 deer at the park! Isn’t it amazing? Guests can also observe other native species found in the beautiful state of Wisconsin and do lots of activities. Some of these activities include guided hands-on, educational petting zoo adventures is included in a visit.

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5. Ripley’s Believe It Or Not!

Address: 115 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

The astonishing display at Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! in Wisconsin Dells will boggle your mind…believe it or not. The museum is an 8,500-square-foot attraction with unusual exhibits, and you’ll find yourself embarking on an adventure of discovery. There are also a variety of unique displays of animals and humans that will surely have you scratching your noggin.

The gallery’s collection ranges from modest pieces to enormous collections like large dinosaur skeletons and micro-miniature sculptures. You can also see giant automobile parts robots, documents, and photographs.

This museum also features two sit-down cinemas or their moving theatre that will leave you hanging at the edge of your seat!

The Odditorium of this museum comprises eight fascinating galleries that showcase mind-boggling exhibits and works of art. Apart from artworks and other exhibitions, there are also interactive puzzles and other exciting treasures too!

All these are created from found objects, remarkable collections, and odd hobbies. So, if you’re looking for an amazing and one-of-a-kind experience, then a visit to Ripley’s Believe It Or Not! is a must!

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6. Timbavati Wildlife Park

Address: 2220 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

Are you looking for a family-friendly holiday spot? Wisconsin is not only endowed with breathtaking scenery, but it is also home to several wildlife preserves.

The Timbavati Wildlife Park, located in Wisconsin Dells, is one of the most enjoyable parks to visit. In this animal kingdom, you can enjoy various fantastic outdoor activities with your family or buddies.

As you enter the park, you are welcomed by some gangly flamingos and other water birds having a paddle. Aside from birds, the park is also home to other wildlife, including big cats, small mammals, reptiles, and agricultural animals.

Beyond the wildlife, the park also offers several other attractions in Wisconsin Dells like the theater, snack bar, and a ride on the Safari Train.

If you’re an animal lover, you can also consider going to the Bay Beach Wildlife Sanctuary. It’s an urban wildlife refuge and is considered one of the largest Wildlife Rehabilitation Sites in the state! 

Looking for a great place to stay before or after visiting the park? Best Western Ambassador Inn & Suites and Hilton Garden Inn Wisconsin Dells are among the best option to take.

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7. Pabst Mansion

Address: 2000 W Wisconsin Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53233, United States

History and art enthusiasts will love a tour of the Pabst Mansion in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Its beauty, historical significance, and well-preserved feature have made it famous. A great attraction to visit on a Milwaukee tour.

Initially, it was constructed for Captain Frederick Pabst, father of the Pabst Brewing Company, and his family in 1982. It was designed in the Flemish Renaissance Revival style and is considered one of America’s few surviving examples of this style.

Since 19975, the mansion has been open to the public as a museum that displays original art and artifacts from the Pabst family collection.

The mansion remains one of Milwaukee’s most extensive and expensive structures ever built. It stands majestically in the heart of one of America’s most prominent beer cities.

When you enter Pabst Mansion, you are greeted with a tour that details the mansion’s history. During the tour, you’ll learn about the lovely interiors, the beautiful art collections, and the excellent furnishings.

The Pabst Mansion proves that beauty isn’t limited to the Wisconsin countryside. But also within an estate that has endured for generations in one of Wisconsin’s industrial communities.

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8. Cave Point County Park

Address: 5360 Schauer Rd, Sturgeon Bay, WI 54235, United States

Another great park on our list is a must-visit Cave Point County Park in Door County in Sturgeon Bay, Wisconsin. The Cave Point County Park is a well-known park for its picturesque vistas, its wave-worn Dolomite/limestone ledges, underwater caves, and a stirring view of Lake Michigan.

Just a little background about its history, three families gave the land for Cave Point County Park to the county in 1943 and 1945 for preservation. They are George and Mabel Hanson, Mike and Louise Lyons, and John and Florence Reynolds.

It was the county’s fifth park, and its protection predated the establishment of Whitefish Dunes State Park immediately to the south in 1967.

This park is the perfect place to relax and take a scenic picnic if you’re not a thrill junkie. It has a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the eastern edge of the Door Peninsula.

Moreover, Cave Point also provides impressive views of the sunrise and sunset over the water. Kayak tours are one of the best activities to enjoy here.

But given its peaceful, relaxing ambiance, this does not mean that you can’t participate in various adrenaline-pumping activities. Underwater cave exploring and kayaking among caverns and cliffs and rock climbing are just a few of the activities available in this park and nearby areas.

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9. Milwaukee Art Museum

Address: 700 N Art Museum Dr, Milwaukee, WI 53202, United States

As you travel through Milwaukee on your amazing, life-changing Wisconsin tour, you will witness great works of art and masterpieces in the Milwaukee Art Museum.

Just by looking at it, you’ll definitely notice that the museum is a work of art itself. It is a sight to see in an iconic Milwaukee tour.

The Milwaukee Art Museum is home to a variety of art forms, including paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, photographs, and decorative arts also has a collection of folk and Haitian art and a growing collection of African art.

It is also positioned on a bluff above Lake Michigan with a spectacular view of the lake and surrounding area.

The museum offers a variety of tours, both guided and self-guided, to help you get the most out of your visit. There are also many interactive displays and activities for children, making it a great place to tag them along.

This museum features an extensive collection of American decorative arts, German paintings, and prints created in the Expressionist art style and other German decorative arts, including the world’s most significant displays of Georgia O’Keeffe paintings and collections of artworks from the 1960s.

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10. Old World Wisconsin

Address: W372 S9727 WI-67, Eagle, WI 53119, United States

In Waukesha County, never pass by the opportunity to spend the day at Old World Wisconsin.  It’s no doubt that this is definitely one of the most exciting things to do in Wisconsin for kids, even for adults. The Old World Wisconsin covers the State’s history from the 1840s to the 1910s, with notable exhibitions portraying living conditions and parts of daily life for settlers in nineteenth-century Wisconsin. 

Guests can definitely explore the sensory-rich settings, hear stories and engage in a hands-on tour as the museum highlights different stories of the State’s history.

Meanwhile, some areas of the museum also represent the customs of different ethnic groups who came to the State to make new homes for themselves. As you examine each of the exhibits in Old World Wisconsin, you will become immersed in this fun and quintessentially Wisconsin experience.

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11. Olbrich Botanical Gardens

Address: 3330 Atwood Ave, Madison, WI 53704, United States

Located in the picturesque state capital city of Madison, Wisconsin, Olbrich Botanical Garden is a one-of-a-kind attraction that offers a magnificent array of domestic, exotic plants and a delightful walk.

The Olbrich Botanical Garden was named after its founder, Michael Olbrich, in 1952. This garden consists of an outdoor botanical garden of about 16 acres and a 10,000-square-foot conservatory and greenhouse.

The garden is a lush green haven where visitors can find a subterranean garden. There’s also a reflecting pool and a garden with a babbling stream.

This tropical paradise is the only Thai Pavilion and Garden in the continental United States. The flowers and other natural plants provide breathtaking views. The garden also serves as a hub for events, a large gift store, and gardening archives.

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12. River Walk

Address: 105 Broadway #91, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

The visit to Wisconsin would not be complete without a stroll, bike, or jog along the Milwaukee River. The River Walk is a 3-mile-long pedestrian path that runs along the river’s east bank from downtown Milwaukee to the lakefront.

The River Walk is also a great place to take in the sights and sounds of the city, and it’s also adjacent to the River Walk is the Milwaukee Art Museum.

It’s just a short walk away from the Historic Third Ward, one of Milwaukee’s most vibrant neighborhoods with various shops, galleries, restaurants, and theaters.

River Walk is also a family-friendly and pet-friendly place where you can enjoy walking with your pet through the breathtaking scenery of the river.

The town’s pathway provides a stunning view of the Dells’ unique setting. It is also rich in gaming tables and comfortable seats throughout its length, making this a great outdoor excursion with some pals.

And what makes this a greater place to visit is that it’s accessible to the public and is open all year.

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13. Wizard Quest

Address: 402 Broadway, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

The Wizard Quest in Wisconsin Dells is perfect for those who love solving puzzles and going on adventures. This interactive live-action game lets you enter a world of wizards and magic as you try to solve the mysteries within.

You and your team will be given a set of clues to help you along the way. You and the children (at heart) alike will enjoy this fun-filled, great attraction for the whole family.

Definitely, an outstanding family-friendly tourist attraction and a local landmark filled with entertaining and engaging adventures!

Some games test your physical ability at Wizard Quest. You must crawl or run as you complete your Wizard Quest. It is conveniently located among other attractions in town, including the mind-boggling Ripley’s Believe It or Not!

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14. Rick Wilcox Magic Theater

Address: 1670 Wisconsin Dells Pkwy, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

This intimate black-box-style theater is one of the best places to see live magic shows in the Midwest. The show features sleight-of-hand and grand illusions and a little bit of audience participation. At the Rick Wilcox Magic Theater, adults and children of all ages will enjoy the shows, which are family-friendly and appropriate for all audiences.

The theater is located in downtown Wisconsin Dells, just a short walk from many of the area’s hotels and attractions. It is where professional magicians perform live comedy entertainment for all ages.

Rick and Susan’s 90-minute Magic Show, which defines outstanding entertainment, is among the shows to look forward to at the theater.

The Rick Wilcox Magic Theater puts up a performance that can give the best magic shows in Las Vegas a run for their money!

It is, without question, some of the best live entertainment in Wisconsin, and you cannot afford to miss out on it.

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15. Witches Gulch

Address: Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

Far from the name itself, the Witches Gulch is a gorge that the Wisconsin River has carved out over thousands of years. The gorge walls are lined with limestone and sandstone cliffs that are up to 100 feet high in some places.

The Witches Gulch is home to various plants and animals, and it’s open year-round. It’s a great place to hike, go birdwatching, or just enjoy scenic views.

The only accessible way to Witches Gulch is by taking the Upper Dells Boat Tour. It does not only take you to the Witches Gulch but also provides you with many breathtaking sights along the way.

Wisconsin Dells, home of the Witches Gulch, is also well-known as a home to some of the best waterpark resorts in the country. It is also said to be housing magnificent narrow canyons teeming with wildlife surrounded by lush vegetation that you could explore.

The hiking trails meander their way throughout the canyon through stunning mossy formations and tight canyon passageways. It’s an incredibly atmospheric voyage and one not to miss!

See Related: Best Things to Do in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

16. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore

Address: 415 Washington Ave, Bayfield, WI 54814, United States

In Northern Wisconsin, on Lake Superior, there is a gorgeous island consisting of a stretch of shoreline and 21 islands worth visiting. Among them are the Apostle Islands, which are worth paying a visit to.

Bask in the beauty of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore in Wisconsin! The area is known for a visually stunning series of sea caves in a red stone rock cliff trail. It is accessible by a 5-mile-long walk along the ridgeline.

Aside from the island’s gorgeous scenery and natural beauty, it is also home to 240 species of birds, bald eagles, and even black bears.

It’s also worth noting that Apostle Islands National Lakeshore has more lighthouses than any other park in the US National Park System. It has nine historic lighthouse towers and places of immense historical significance.

In terms of activities, hiking, sailing, and paddling are famous things you can do in Lake Superior. The Apostle Islands are truly a wonder to behold. There is no better place to experience them than in Wisconsin. Book your stay at one of these top areas to stay in Bayfield County.

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17. Bookworm Gardens

Address: 1415 Campus Dr, Sheboygan, WI 53081, United States

If you love to read, visiting the Bookworm Gardens in Sheboygan, Wisconsin, is one of the most enjoyable things you can do in the city!

Bookworm Gardens is a botanical garden that displays beautiful flowers and diverse types of plants. It is situated close to the campus of the University of Wisconsin-Sheboygan. It is approximately one hour north of Milwaukee and Green Bay in Wisconsin.

Throughout the garden, there are various displays of books that celebrate the works of Wisconsin authors. The garden also has amenities that provide excellent outdoor recreation opportunities.

This is also a good place to visit for children as they can enjoy staying at the playground and enjoying the carved children’s books.

In fact, it is considered a one-of-a-kind public garden designed to inspire children’s love of reading and nature through interactive plantings, sculptures, and buildings based on popular children’s stories.

The picnic area in the garden is also accessible, where families can come to explore, learn, and play together in a safe and beautiful outdoor setting.

The Bookworm Gardens is only open during specific seasons, so we recommend visiting between May and October.

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18. Devil’s Lake State Park

Address: S5975 Park Rd, Baraboo, WI 53913, United States

Grab your best walking boots and expect an exciting outdoor adventure at Devil’s Lake State Park! The park is Wisconsin’s largest state park. It is located in eastern Sauk County, Wisconsin, along the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. It boasts spectacular views from its 500-foot quartzite bluffs that overlook a 360-acre lake.

In this State Park, visitors can also engage in engaging outdoor activities, such as hiking on trails and swimming at the beach. Families can also enjoy having nice picnics surrounded by breathtaking surroundings, park paddling, and camping opportunities.

The Devil’s Lake State Park also features three campgrounds: the Quartzite Campground, Ice Age Campground, and Northern Lights Campground. All these campgrounds have a capacity of 423 campsites and 9 group campsites with a combined total of 240 campers.

The park is open all year round, but the best time to visit is during the summer months when you can take advantage of all the outdoor activities on offer.

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19. Rocky Arbor State Park

Address: N101 US Hwy. 12 and 16, Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965, United States

A visit to Rocky Arbor State Park will be one of the most enjoyable things to do in Wisconsin Dells. Rocky Arbor State Park was established in 1932 and was created to conserve sandstone bluffs that have been transformed into magnificent cliffs and ledges.

It is located in the town of Dodgeville in southwest Wisconsin and situated on more than 1,000 acres of land and features a variety of extra fun to your visit by taking a ride on the park’s scenic train.

Even though camping is one of the most appealing activities in the park, visitors can also hike, go picnic, go camping, and take a ride on the park’s scenic train. 

Rocky Arbor State Park’s campground features approximately 89 woodland campsites equipped with showers and toiletries. Its camping grounds in the woods, one-mile hiking trail, picnic area, and play area are all available and accessible in the park.

The Rocky Arbor State Park is open all year round. Still, the best time to visit is during the summer months when you can take advantage of all the outdoor activities on offer.

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20. Circus World Museum

Address: 550 Water St, Baraboo, WI 53913, United States

Among the most famous circus families on Earth, Circus World Museum was founded by The Ringling Bros. in 1884 and moved to Baraboo, Wisconsin, in 1918. It’s a large complex that contains several different attractions, including a museum, a circus school, and a performing arts center.

Today, the circus grew, becoming one of the world’s most significant entertainment ventures, and is now one of the numerous thriving tourist attractions in the city.

The museum is devoted to circus history and contains an extensive collection of circus memorabilia. It also has a circus school that offers acrobatics, clowning, and other circus arts classes.

You can also visit the library and research center that houses a collection of books, documents, and other materials related to the history of the circus.

Along the way, you can experience the joy and excitement of being a child again as acrobats, clowns, aerial and trapeze artists, and other circus performers monkey about! And don’t miss Mr. Bill’s clowning legend bringing the circus to life before your eyes.

Other than all of that, you can also take part in elephant rides, pony rides, and even take pictures with a unicorn! You can also ride an actual old-school wooden carousel, among other activities, view the museum’s exhibits, and watch its expert performances.

As exciting as it may sound, it is essential to note there are daily live circus performances at this intriguing museum only throughout the summer.

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21. Harley Davidson Museum

Do you love motorcycles? Do you drool over the thought of getting your hands on a Harley Davidson? Then you need to head to the Harley Davidson Museum in Wisconsin.

The Harley Davidson Museum is an emporium of all things Harley, and it’s a great place to learn about the history of this iconic brand. You’ll get to see some great motorcycles at the museum and learn about the people who created this legendary brand.

The museum is located in the town of Milwaukee, which is also home to the Harley Davidson headquarters. This is a must-visit for any motorcycle enthusiast, and it’s sure to get your motor running.

22. National Railroad Museum

The National Railroad Museum in Harley, Wisconsin, is the perfect place for anyone who loves trains! The National Railroad Museum is home to many different kinds of trains, including steam locomotives, diesel locomotives, and electric locomotives. There are also several model trains on display.

Visitors can explore exhibits on the evolution of rail travel, see famous locomotives up close, and even purchase small trains from the National Railroad Museum gift shop. The National Railroad Museum is located in the city of Green Bay, just a short drive from Milwaukee.

Definitely, a perfect place to spend a day if you’re interested in learning about America’s rich railroad history!

23. Bay Beach Amusement Park

There’s no better place to cool off and have some fun on a hot summer day than Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay, Wisconsin. This family-friendly destination has something for everyone, from thrilling rides to delicious food so that you can refuel after a day of exploration.

The park first opened in 1892 and has been a beloved spot for locals and tourists. If you’re looking for a thrill, hop on the Zippin Pippin, one of the oldest roller coasters in the country. Or take a spin on the Tilt-A-Whirl, a classic carnival ride that will spin your head through its many historic rides.

With over 22 traditional rides, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Other highlights at the park include the Wave Swinger, the Water Slide, and 19 more traditional rides.

So come on down and enjoy all that this charming park offers! No matter your age, you’re sure to have a blast at Bay Beach Amusement Park.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of what trip you’re taking, it’s important to find things to make your experience worthwhile. From outdoor activities in Northern Wisconsin to sports like the historic Green Bay Packers to museums and theaters, you can find something fun for everyone in Wisconsin.

We’ve put together a list of some of the best and most fun things to do in Wisconsin so that you can make the most out of your time here.

So get out there and explore! And don’t forget that Wisconsin is also home to some amazing homestyle midwestern food options – from cheese curds to beer brats.

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