Wisconsin wins over visitors with beautiful natural landscapes, vibrant cultural attractions and a rich culinary scene, not to mention the best cheese curds in the country. From viewing historic architectural landmarks to partaking in classic supper clubs and the time-honored fish fry tradition, visitors can make unforgettable memories at every turn.
Popular Demand
Milwaukee’s Museums
Milwaukee is home to an impressive roster of museums and attractions sure to elevate any itinerary. The Milwaukee Public Museum is known for diverse exhibits that range from natural history and anthropology to cultural artifacts and scientific discoveries, including a planetarium and a live butterfly garden. For an entirely different vibe, the Harley-Davidson Museum celebrates the legacy of America’s most famous motorcycle brand with a range of engaging tours, including a VIP experience. For a fun and quirky stop, the National Bobblehead Hall of Fame and Museum charms with its collection of more than 10,000 bobbleheads.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin is a must-see for anyone visiting Wisconsin. Tucked into a hillside in Spring Green, this architectural masterpiece embodies Wright’s philosophy of harmonizing design with nature. For nearly 50 years, this was Wright’s home, studio and school. From April to November, Taliesin offers guided tours that offer a fascinating look into the mind of one of America’s greatest architects and can be tailored to the interests of groups of 12 or more, with the option to add a buffet-style lunch. Taliesin is a highlight of the Frank Lloyd Wright Trail, which features nine stunning sites, including Monona Terrace at the University of Wisconsin in Madison.
Door County’s Scenic Shoreline and Lighthouses
Often called the “Cape Cod of the Midwest,” Door County captivates travelers with its picturesque peninsula and over 300 miles of pristine shoreline. Start with one of the area’s 11 historic lighthouses, like Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, which is open for self-guided visits from mid-May to mid-October. The Door County Maritime Museum in Sturgeon Bay is a must for a dive into the Great Lakes’ rich nautical heritage, with guided tours of exhibits and the fully restored tugboat John Purves. No visit to Door County is complete without a fish boil, a tradition where fresh-caught whitefish is cooked outdoors in a large metal kettle over an open fire.
Up and Coming
Madison Public Market
Opening in early summer 2025, the Madison Public Market promises visitors an authentic taste of Wisconsin’s dynamic capital city. A celebration of local culture, farm-fresh flavors and artistic expression, the market will welcome visitors with vibrant public murals created by local artists. Inside the expansive MarketHall, more than 30 Wisconsin-based merchants will offer everything from fresh produce and dairy products to handmade crafts, local meats and wine, with seasonal pop-up vendors and outdoor food carts adding to the experience. Common seating areas, including a large outdoor patio, provide groups space to relax and revel in Madison’s unique energy.
Vivarium
Opened in February 2024, Vivarium on Milwaukee’s East Side has quickly become a standout venue for live music, comedy and cultural events. This 450-capacity space was brought to life by Pabst Theater Group, which created an atmosphere that’s both intimate and electric. The venue’s industrial-chic aesthetics highlight Wisconsin craftmanship, with reclaimed wood from local trees, skylights and lush living plants that create a warm, creative vibe. Performances range from emerging artists to established headliners, showcasing Milwaukee’s thriving music and arts scene.
Milwaukee Art Museum’s Expansion
Set along the stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, the Milwaukee Art Museum offers an inspiring blend of world-class artwork and architectural excellence. In late 2024, the museum unveiled an expanded museum store, now spread across two levels. This renovation doubled the space for curated books, jewelry and museum-branded merchandise but also transformed the store into one of Milwaukee’s most artful shopping experiences. The redesign reopened the once-private Quadracci Suite, showcasing Santiago Calatrava’s signature organic architecture and providing breathtaking views of Windhover Hall from an elevated perspective. Enhanced lakefront vistas add to the store’s allure, making this more than just a stop for souvenirs.
Overnight Sensations
Saint Kate
In Milwaukee, the Saint Kate boasts 219 art-inspired guest rooms that feature thoughtful touches that invite guests to connect with the arts in unexpected ways, including in-room ukeleles and record players. The hotel doubles as a vibrant arts hub, featuring gallery spaces, rotating exhibitions and the permanent Seed Collection, which challenges traditional artistic boundaries with innovative materials and thought-provoking concepts. Dining options include Aria Café and Bar for classic American fare and Proof Pizza for wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies. Giggly Champagne and Wine Bar specializes in sparkling wines by the bottle and glass.
Grand Geneva Resort and Spa
The Grand Geneva Resort and Spa in Lake Geneva woos guests with year-round appeal. A $30 million renovation in 2023 reimagined its 358 guest rooms. Fifteen distinctive room styles range from expansive suites with fireplaces, dining areas and patios to cozy rooms with private balconies for serene nature and lake views. Public spaces and dining venues also received a fresh update, including the redesigned Grand Café, which features a seasonal menu and floor-to-ceiling windows. Set on 1,300 acres of rolling countryside, the resort has two championship golf courses and a ski hill for winter adventures.
Memorable Meals
The Harvey House
This award-winning spot captures the essence of a classic supper club with its warm ambiance, expertly crafted Old Fashioneds and elevated takes on classic dishes. Start with a supper club staple, a relish tray with crudités and spreads. A seasonal menu highlights charcoal-grilled steaks, fresh-caught fish and farm-fresh produce. For vegetarian guests, a dedicated menu features inventive and delicious options like black truffle macaroni and cheese, and sofrito braised garbanzo beans.
Eddie Whipp’s Dining Hall
For Wisconsin’s beloved fish fry tradition, make your way to Eddie Whipp’s Dining Hall in Green Bay. This family-owned institution has been serving its famous perch fry since 1947. The tradition itself dates to the 1800s, rooted in Catholic fasting customs and the abundance of local freshwater fish. Eddie Whipp’s Friday fish fry features fresh, locally sourced perch, hand-breaded and fried to crispy perfection, complemented by classic sides like cheese curds, fried mushrooms and sweet potato fries. Don’t leave without a homemade cream puff – just $1.75 each and worth every bite.