Wisconsin's 10 Most Iconic Tourist Attractions You Should Never Skip

The secret is out: Wisconsin is a midwestern gem that has grown a little bit less hidden every day. State tourism reports published by local news channel WMTV indicate that travel in the Badger State has been on the rise. A shocking number of more than 114.4 million visitors explored Wisconsin's picturesque landscapes and adorable towns in 2024, marking a record-breaking year for local tourism. Considering that Wisconsin boasts gorgeous glacial lakes, unique geological formations, and scrumptious cheeses, it's not exactly a surprise that travelers are flocking to the region.

As a bona fide midwesterner myself, I spent many a childhood summer exploring Wisconsin's many lakes and forests. Using my own experiences and the recommendations of friends who have lived in the area for decades, I compiled a list of some of the best Wisconsin destinations. By cross-referencing these local favorites with traveler reviews, I was able to ensure that the list captures Wisconsin at its finest, reflecting some of the state's best cultural and natural gems. 

The Apostle Islands National Lakeshore encapsulates the very best of Northern Wisconsin. Located near the town of Bayfield on the southern coast of Lake Superior, this majestic collection of 21 islands is a sight to behold. With pines, lakeside caves, and dramatic cliffs that jut straight out of the chilly waters, the area is the perfect place for nature photography. Sign up for an island cruise, pack your camera, and snap away. The most popular boating experiences in the area last up to three hours. History buffs will also enjoy the cruises, which whisk by lighthouses and other historical sites.

Folks who want to get a closer view of the Apostle Islands and their 12 miles of protected coastline along Lake Superior can embark on paddling tours. Kayaking outings are especially popular with outdoor adventurers of all levels, while amateur paddlers may enjoy half-day trips into the sea caves, and experts can look forward to multi-day journeys that involve rustic camping in the islands. SUP boarding fans may even go on a stand-up paddle tour of the cliffs. 

Regardless of your preferred method of transportation, expect to view interesting geological formations, whitefish, and maybe even some endangered piping plover birds. It's also not uncommon to see bears swimming in Lake Superior, so be sure to brush up on your bear protocol before heading to the park. Winters in the Apostle Islands tend to be harsh, so most activities are only available in summer.

Wisconsin may be most famous for its cheeses, but that doesn't mean it lacks delicious wine-making grapes. As part of the Upper Mississippi Valley AVA, southwestern Wisconsin is home to adorable wineries and cool wine bars. The region stands out due to its unique soil composition, which contains traces of the melted glaciers from the end of the most recent Ice Age approximately 11,500 years ago. This makes it the perfect environment to plant cold-hardy grapes like Edelweiss, Saint-Croix, and Chardonel. Of the total 42 wineries in the Upper Mississippi Valley, 14 are located in Wisconsin. 

To explore a handful of them on a single trip, embark on the self-guided Great River Road Wine Trail. This road trip will take you along 235 miles of scenic Mississippi River terrain and stop at 11 different wineries in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa. True Wisconsinites need not venture across state lines, however, as five of the destinations are located in the Badger State. Soak up the views of the famous Driftless Region, which boasts deep green river bluffs that look over the second longest river in the United States. Then, stop at boutique wineries to sample different types of vino.

Average summer temperatures in Western Wisconsin hover around 83 degrees Fahrenheit, making it the best time of year to sit outside and sip a glass of white. Fall is also a lovely time to plan a trip and admire the colorful foliage. 

There may be no better place for a family vacation than the Wisconsin Dells. This town is home to some of the best waterparks in the United States, offering a variety of both indoor and outdoor centers. During the summer, check out Mount Olympus Water & Theme Park, where North America's tallest water slide stands in its beloved outdoor park. Stretching an impressive 145 feet into the air, this impressive construction is guaranteed to keep even the biggest dare devils on their toes.

Meanwhile, folks who want more of a lakeside experience can head to Land of Natura, an open-air recreational area that was built directly into a lake. With waterslides, floating trampolines, and inflatables, this 150-acre park gives high-energy kids plenty of room to play. As the largest inflatable waterpark in America, Land of Natura boasts endless fun.

The Wisconsin Dells offer tons of wintertime waterpark fun, as well. Nestled into an enormous glass structure, the indoor waterpark at Kalahari encompasses a lazy river, basketball pool, and surfing simulator that are open no matter the weather. The Wild WaterDome park at Wilderness Resort is another great winter option, thanks to its 70,000 square feet of fun. Home to the largest wave pool in America and plenty of slides, this park is a visitor favorite. Just remember that day passes to Kalahari and Wilderness Resort are limited, so book your tickets in advance if you aren't staying at the hotel.

Brimming with stylish neighborhoods and a walkable arts scene, it's no surprise that Milwaukee is also home to the fascinating Milwaukee Art Museum. Designed by a trio of architectural geniuses from three different generations, this establishment is the product of collaboration between Eero Saarinen, David Kiley, and Santiago Calatrava. 

Architecture fans will be thrilled to see the War Memorial created by Saarinen in 1957. Praised for its innovation, the structure represents one of the best examples of mid-century Midwestern modernism. Calatrava's 2001 Quadracci Pavilion, meanwhile, stuns visitors with its elegant white design. Invoking the imagery of a sailboat, the building includes a 217-foot-long sun screen called the Burke Brise Soleil. Just outside the museum, visitors can enjoy the outdoor elegance of Kiley's Cudahy Gardens, which are known for their geometrical genius.

While the museum's architecture can be admired from the street for no charge, its collection is well worth the price of admission. The Milwaukee Art Museum contains over 32,000 pieces that include paintings, sculptures, and works from the ancient world. Gaze at centuries'-old Roman busts, contemplate ancient Egyptian coffins, and study Greek pottery. Then, check out modern North American paintings, like Georgia O'Keefe's "Poppies" or Andy Warhol's "Campbell's Soup." If you aren't sure where to begin, sign up for a guided tour. Hour-long sessions featuring the building's architecture and its most famous works can help visitors get a feel for the collection — freeing them up to then spend time at their favorite exhibits.

Wisconsin may not be close to Europe, but that doesn't mean that you can't enjoy a European getaway within state bounds. The charming town of New Glarus, offers Swiss-style architecture and rich Alpine foods just 40 minutes south of the state's capital. Founded in 1845 by a group of Swiss immigrants, New Glarus consists of adorable traditional chalets with beautiful wooden shutters. Although decades have passed since its original establishment, the town maintains many of its past traditions — particularly cheesemaking. Foodies will love visiting the different cheese shops in New Glarus and sampling the incredible creations. Be sure to save room for dinner, though, because the fondue restaurants in town come highly recommended.

Visitors can enjoy New Glarus' culinary tourism any time of year, but the best time to visit is during the summer or early fall. The town's iconic Swiss Historical Village is only open from May to October and provides deep insight into local history. This open-air museum is comprised of life-sized replicas of old Swiss-style village buildings, allowing travelers to experience the 19th century version of New Glarus. Stroll past an old schoolhouse, check out a bee house, and peek inside a one-room cabin. 

Other summer activities in New Glarus include exciting festivals, like the annual "Heidi" folk play performed in June, and the Volksfest Swiss Independence Day held in August. Volksfest is a particularly great way to embrace Swiss musical culture, thanks to yodeling and alphorn performances.

Devil's Lake State Park, near the town of Baraboo, boasts a shimmering lake and scenic bluffs. True to its name, this delightful natural preserve features the expansive Devil's Lake — which stretches over a whopping 360 acres of terrain. During the summer, visitors can splash around in the lake's cool waters at one of two sandy beaches. Playgrounds and lakeside picnic areas are open to the public, providing families with the ideal place to soak up the sun.

As Wisconsin's largest state park, there are also plenty of activities that appeal to land lubbers as well. The preserve boasts 30 miles of hiking trails that will keep even the most enthusiastic of walkers busy for a weekend of fun. The Ice Age Trail Scenic Loop spans 13.7 miles through meadows, alongside creeks, and over cliffs. Meanwhile, the 1.5-mile-long West Bluff Trail provides sweeping views of the lake to hikers who are willing to take on the 500 steps to the gorgeous overlook.

Winters at Devil's Lake State Park mean a whole lot of excitement for folks interested in snow sports. Amateur snowshoers will be pleased to know that the concession stand at the park provides free snowshoe rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. Although snowshoers are allowed free reign of the park, they should steer clear of cliffs and bluffs for safety reasons.

Wisconsin stands at the heart of the renowned Frank Lloyd Wright trail, which brings visitors from one midwestern architectural gem to the next. Of all the spots in this group, however, one truly stands out. The Frank Lloyd Wright Taliesin Preserve in Spring Green offers travelers a stunning glimpse into the work and life of Frank Lloyd Wright. At this 800-acre property where Wright resided for 50 years, visitors can explore the 37,000-square-foot building where the architect did some of his most important work. Beyond the design studio where he created his famous Usonian homes, Wright also organized an architectural school at Taliesin. The result is a compound that served as a creative, educational, and living space.

To wander the grounds of Wright's old Wisconsin home, visitors can sign up for a two-hour guided tour of the property. Available daily from May to October and on weekends from November through April, this experience will allow you to admire the interior of Wright's enormous house. Highlights include a diving pool, an old stone fireplace, and Wright's personal instruments. 

Afterward, head to Riverview Terrace Café — a restaurant located directly on the estate. Designed by Wright, this eatery looks out over the spectacular Wisconsin River. With a menu that serves salads, sandwiches, and other classic American fare, the Riverview Terrace Café is a crowd-pleaser — and one of the only places where you can actually eat inside one of Wright's buildings.

The charming town of Minocqua takes lakeside living to a whole new level. Located on a peninsula that juts out into the scenic Lake Minocqua, this small midwestern town is the perfect place to enjoy a whole lot of freshwater fun. During the summer, swimmers can head to Toby Park — a four acre public beach with sports courts, picnic tables, and grills. Heat up some hot dogs, take a cool dip, then play a round of beach volleyball or tennis to absorb life "up north."

Folks who want to spend time floating on Lake Minocqua should consider renting a boat. Fishermen will be thrilled with the possibility of reeling in some local walleye, while waterskiers will get a kick out of Lake Minocqua's smooth waters. Interestingly, the lake is home to the Min-Aqua Bats, a group that organizes the longest running amateur waterski performance in the world. Every summer, the group puts on free tri-weekly shows involving impressive stunt jumping and human pyramids — the perfect way to keep the whole family entertained.

Folks who visit Minocqua during the fall and winter can always tackle the Bearskin Trail. This 18.4-mile adventure departs from the center of town and runs over the lake before continuing along Bearskin Creek, providing lovely water views along the way. Bikers, hikers, and snowmobilers all love zooming along this path. Just be aware that you may have to pay a nominal state park fee to enjoy it.

Wisconsin's capital, Madison is an underrated destination totally worthy of your midwest bucket list — and its historic capitol building is part of the reason why. Built in the lush Capitol Park in 1915, the Wisconsin State Capitol was the product of an enormous local effort. The reason? Before ground broke on the project in 1906, three previous iterations of the capitol had already been built and abandoned. The first was little more than a wooden cabin, and served as the capitol building for a meager 46 days. The second was built on territory that would later become Iowa, forcing Wisconsinites to choose a new home for their government. And the third was a stunning 19th century building that tragically burned to the ground in 1904. Because of this history, locals worked hard to make the building shine; these days, you can see it for yourself.

Free group tours of the Wisconsin State Capitol are available on a year-round basis. Guests can expect to see historic artwork, architectural beauty, and even a striking view of Lake Mendota and Lake Monona. Although groups of fewer than 10 people do not need to reserve their spots, travelers should be sure to check the official website for updated schedules. The best time of year to visit is during the summer, when a viewing platform and museum become available to visitors.

If a northern Wisconsin retreat with 1.5 million acres of woodland sounds way too good to be true, then you might need to see Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest for yourself. Located near the beautiful town of Rhinelander, this immense natural preserve is the perfect place to flee from the chaos of city life. Cold weather visitors love this spot for its extensive winter sport trails. Whether you are into snowmobiling, snowshoeing, or nordic skiing, you are bound to find some amazing snow to explore. For one, the Jones Springs Area Trail is ideal for on-foot visitors who want to ski or snowshoe through a 2,000-acre space complete with three lakes and a shelter. Snowmobilers, meanwhile, will enjoy shredding The Flambeau Motorized Trail — a path that snakes through 70-plus miles of forests, bridges, and hills.

The Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest is also a great spot for summer visitors who want to enjoy an afternoon on the water. There are over 2,000 lakes in this preserve — meaning you can find tons of places to paddle, fish, or splash around. Boot Lake is especially popular among guests who want to enjoy a first-rate campground on the shores of a sandy beach. Spend the day fishing for walleye and northern pike, camp overnight, and wake up the next morning to stunning lake views. Canoeing is also typical at Boot Lake. Just be sure to reserve your spot at the campground in advance.

Given my personal love of Wisconsin and the upper Midwest, it was challenging to narrow down my recommendations to just 10 places. I have my own favorite spots in Wisconsin, and one of my local connections provided me with a massive list of her top Wisconsin picks. Because there is no shortage of fun things to do in the Badger State, I spent a lot of time parsing this list down. 

To accomplish this goal, I relied heavily on traveler reviews and information on local tourism boards. Each of the spots on this list came highly-rated on sights like Google Reviews and Tripadvisor. Additionally, I also checked out the recommendations of local touristic organizations to get a feel for what they want travelers to experience. The result is a list of Wisconsin travel destinations that blends personal experiences, local expertise, and visitor satisfaction.

In order to showcase the full range of what Wisconsin has to offer, I also tried to highlight places that would appeal to different types of travelers. While Apostle Islands National Lakeshore and Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest may appeal to hikers and kayakers, the Wisconsin Dells and Minocqua are more ideal for family fun. Meanwhile, foodies will love the wines of the Upper Mississippi Valley and the cheeses of New Glarus, and the artsiest of travelers will be thrilled with Milwaukee Art Museum and the Frank Lloyd Wright Taliesin Preserve. If history buffs will prefer the Wisconsin State Capitol, winter sports enthusiasts will enjoy Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. In Wisconsin, variety abounds.