If you’re looking for the best attractions in Wisconsin, then you’ve come to the right place!
I was born and raised in Ohio, and I spent a lot of time finding the best things to do there.
So I also know that the Midwest is a part of the country that often gets overlooked.
Wisconsin is probably best known for its beer, cheese, and Native American culture. But that’s not all there is to Wisconsin attractions.
On this list, I’ve included some things to do in Wisconsin that are super popular tourist attractions in WI, but for a good reason.
These are the Wisconsin destinations you don’t want to miss and they all deserve a spot on your Midwest travel bucket list.
So, let’s take a look at the 10 best attractions in Wisconsin that you won’t want to miss!
10 Best Attractions In Wisconsin For Your Bucket List
A Trip To The Wisconsin Dells Is A Must-See Wisconsin Destination
One of the most popular Wisconsin destinations is the Wisconsin Dells. The Wisconsin Dells is an area in the state that is known for its watersports fun.
In fact, the Wisconsin Dells is the ‘Waterpark Capital of the World’. I’m not kidding!
There are tons and tons of waterparks in the Wisconsin Dells, more than anywhere else in the world. So it’s easily one of the best things to do in Wisconsin for families.
But if waterparks aren’t your thing, don’t worry. This Wisconsin tourist attraction is also full of natural water features and destinations.
You can go kayaking in Devil’s Lake State Park, one of the best state parks in Wisconsin, to see the famous Witches Gulch – or you can hike there.
There are tons of lakes for boating and swimming and some beautiful Wisconsin waterfalls!
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Spring Green And The Taliesin Preservation
For fans of the renowned American architect Frank Lloyd Wright, Spring Green, and the Taliesin Preservation is a must-see Wisconsin tourist attraction.
Spring Green is the hometown of Frank Lloyd Wright and is full of his iconic designs. That’s because there are several buildings in the town that were designed by him, often early in his career.
In the early 1900’s, Wright built is personal home, Taliesin, just outside of the charming small town in Wisconsin.
Wright’s personal home, Taliesin is now a house museum and preservation that you can tour.
You’ll learn about Wright’s iconic style, his influences, and his lasting impact on American architecture – especially in the Midwest.
Keep in mind that is a popular place to visit in Wisconsin, so I suggest booking your tour tickets ahead of time!
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Door County Is One Of The Most Romantic Places To Visit In Wisconsin
Door County Wisconsin is perfect for a romantic weekend getaway in the Midwest!
For couples that love food, wine, and nature, this is easily one of the best things to do in Wisconsin for adults. But it’s still family-friendly if you’re looking for a family trip.
But Door County is definitely known as the go-to Wisconsin travel destination for lovers.
No matter what time of year you decide to visit Door County, you’ll enjoy yourself.
Winter in Door County is my favorite time to visit. It’s the ultimate cozy and romantic getaway!
You can look for the Northern Lights, go snowshoeing across the beautiful snow-covered landscape, and cozy up by the fire after a day spent exploring.
But any season is beautiful in Door County, so I recommended it to everyone as one of the best Wisconsin destinations.
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The Harley Davidson Museum Is A Top Attraction In Wisconsin
One of the top attractions in Milwaukee Wisconsin is the Harley Davidson Museum.
Harley Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle brand that has its own ‘cult’ following. This is partially due to the brand’s huge impact on American motorcycle culture.
Inside the museum, you’ll see a number of truly unique exhibits. They have motorcycles dating all the way back to 1903, when the brand first started.
You’ll also see bikes owned by iconic Americans, you can virtually build your own Harley, and there’s even a fun ‘Imagination Station’ for kids to explore.
The museum is open daily from 10 am to 5 pm and has a café as well as two stores that sell merch you can’t find anywhere else.
If you’re looking for one of the most unique things to do in Milwaukee, look no further!
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Stroll Through The Olbrich Botanical Gardens
One of my favorite things to do in Madison Wisconsin is a stroll through the Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
This beautiful attraction in Madison WI opened in 1952. No matter what time of year you visit, you’re sure to see some beautiful blooms.
The Rose Garden and the Bolz Observatory are two of the main highlights of the Olbrich Botanical Gardens.
One of the more unique things to do in Wisconsin is a visit to the Sala, while in the gardens. The Sala is a beautiful Thai-styled pavilion that was actually a gift from the Thai government.
If you’re looking for fun places to visit in Wisconsin year-round, then head to the Olbrich Botanical Gardens!
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Explore The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore In The Fall
The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore consists of 22 islands on the northern tip of Wisconsin. They are some of the most beautiful islands in the Great Lakes and are definitely worth a visit.
I really enjoy exploring this stunning attraction in Wisconsin during the fall months.
That’s because the shoreline is full of brightly colored trees that are so striking against the blue water of Lake Superior.
Although not technically part of the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, I suggest visiting the largest island, Madeline Island as well.
Because it is the biggest of the Apostle Islands, it is full of popular Wisconsin tourist attractions.
The other islands may be smaller, but they are still full of beautiful hiking trails, areas where you can go kayaking and boating, and so much more. Fall in Wisconsin is so beautiful!
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See The Stars At The Yerkes Observatory
At the University of Chicago in Williams Bay, WI, you’ll find the Yerkes Observatory.
The Yerkes Observatory was founded in 1897 by the university’s Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics. It is considered the birthplace of the study of astrophysics.
Along with that history, famous astronomers and astrophysicists have spent considerable amounts of time using the observatory and its labs.
They have led to research the and discovery of some of the biggest breakthroughs in modern astronomy and astrophysics.
Those names include George Ellery Hale, Edwin Hubble, Nancy Grace Roman, Carl Sagan, and Mary Ross Calvert. During his first visit to the United States in 1921, Albert Einstein was even a visitor to the conservatory.
Today you can tour the stunning architectural and engineering masterpiece that is the observatory.
You’ll learn all about its amazing impact on the science of space as we know it, get up close and personal with the massive telescope, and so much more.
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Go Whitewater Rafting On The Menominee River
If you’re wondering what to do in Wisconsin in the late summer, consider going whitewater rafting on the Menominee River!
The Wildman Adventure Resort offers some of the best whitewater rafting trips on the Menominee River. You can even stay on the Menominee River in one of their adventure cabins.
Whitewater rafting on the Menominee River is definitely for the thrill seekers, as the rapids are classified as class III and IV rapids.
These are some of the most ‘dangerous’ rapids to whitewater raft on. So keep that in mind when you plan to head out onto the river.
Because of their classification all of the whitewater rafting boats come with an expert guide, plenty of safety gear, and a full safety brief before you head out.
If that doesn’t scare you away, you’ll have so much fun racing down the river on a warm late summer day!
Stay Here: wildmanranch.com
Cave Of The Mounds Is One Of The Coolest Attractions in Wisconsin
The Cave of the Mounds is a National Natural Landmark that is easily one of the coolest Wisconsin attractions.
Miles beneath the ground is a massive limestone cave system, and since 1940 they’ve been open to the public for tours.
In that time, it’s become one of the most popular Wisconsin tourist attractions.
The cave is just 25 miles west of Madison, which makes it really easy to get to, especially if you’re staying in Madison.
It is a really unique thing to do in Wisconsin with children, especially if they are interested in rocks and minerals – like so many kids are!
You’ll learn all about the history of the cave, what makes it so special and so unique, and they even have a spot for gemstone mining.
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Relaxing Lake Geneva Is One Of The Best Wisconsin Destinations
If you’re looking for a relaxing place to visit in WI, I highly suggest a trip to Lake Geneva.
Lake Geneva is nicknamed ‘Newport of the West’ since it was once the playground of the rich and famous.
It’s a Wisconsin destination that is still full of charm, and it’s perfect for embracing a slower pace of life for a bit. Plus, there are so many things to do in Lake Geneva!
As you explore the area, you’ll find the beautiful namesake lake with its beautiful beaches.
But in town, you’ll find beautiful old mansions, charming and cozy bed and breakfasts, and plenty of unique shops and incredible Lake Geneva restaurants.
The Lake Geneva Shore Path is probably the best way to see all the sights and sounds of this charming town.
Lake Geneva is a particularly popular thing to do in Wisconsin for couples since it’s known for it’s charming and romantic atmosphere.
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Packing List When Visiting Wisconsin Attractions
If you will be traveling, either by plane or by car to Wisconsin, here are some of my best tips on how to pack lightly.
This unisex RFID-blocking concealed travel pouch is lightweight and comes in several colors. It has lots of organization to give you peace of mind.
If you have a pouch already that does not come with RFID protection, as I do, these RFID sleeves are the perfect solution.
This Anker high-speed phone charging battery is the exact one I carry with me on all of my trips.
My daughter gifted me with this FugeTek selfie stick and tripod setup for my birthday. I absolutely love it! It is made of lightweight aluminum and so easy to use.
I never leave home on a trip without my Bobble filtration bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is perfect for hiking and it fits nicely in the pocket of a backpack.
The replaceable carbon filter ensures clean drinking water when you want it.
Then this collapsible silicone foldable water bottle would work well for you. Would not take up much space at all.
You will want a backpack or daypack with you to store snacks, your water bottle, phone, extra clothes, etc…. No matter the time of day or evening.
This foldable water-resistant backpack would be great.
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There are so many incredible Wisconsin attractions to explore, year-round!
I truly believe there is no ‘bad’ time to travel to Wisconsin and explore everything this beautiful Midwest state has to offer.
With something for everyone, and every interest, there’s no end of things to see in Wisconsin.
Did your favorite Wisconsin attraction make it on my list? I’d love to hear about your personal favorites in the comments!
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