Sparsely populated with acres upon acres of farmland and forests, the midwestern U.S. state doesn’t draw the visitors like some of the more tourist-courting states, but Wisconsin is blessed with a quiet and understated beauty. The rich, rolling landscapes and endless pine forests are extraordinary and dotted with tranquil blue lakes, deep valleys, imposing hills, and the odd brewery. Although it doesn’t always shout about them it’s home to some really remarkable beauty spots. Here are 15 of the best and beautiful places to visit in Wisconsin…
1. Amnicon Falls State Park – one of the most stunning places to visit in Wisconsin perfect for a trip
Located in South Range, Amnicon Falls State Park boasts a total of four waterfalls. The river itself forks around an island, and there are two waterfalls on each side of that island.
Included in the park is an old covered bridge located in the lower falls area, which is definitely a sight to see, as well as the Snake Pit Falls, which many people use as a place to go skinny-dipping. You can also enjoy the Now and Then Falls, which tends to change up a bit each time you visit it.
2. Apostle Islands National Lakeshore – a unique beauty spot to explore in Wisconsin
Located in Bayfield, this area consists of a total of 21 different islands in the northern part of the state. Included in the beauty of the area are sandstone caves and historic, interesting lighthouses. The caves themselves are much more eye-catching than you might think, thanks to their colorful designs. In fact, everything around this area of the state is phenomenal and unforgettable.
If you love nature, especially the water, you’ll love Apostle Islands because it offers everything you’ll appreciate about nature and even more. Easily one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin!
3. Holy Hill – a strikingly beautiful hill and church and a photogenic landmark in Wisconsin
Located in Hubertus, Holy Hill is home to the Basilica of the National Shrine of Mary, Help of Christians, but you don’t have to be a Christian or even a religious person to enjoy its magnificent beauty. Set among the hills of Wisconsin near Milwaukee, the state building is gorgeous and something you will never forget once you see it.
During the fall months, it is one of the most photographed places in the state. Not only that, but Holy Hill is a great place to visit for people of all faiths because it offers the peace and tranquility we all desire. A stunning beauty spot and a must-see place to visit in Wisconsin.
4. Dells Mill – a unique and scenic must-see attraction in Augusta
This is an old five-story grist mill found in Augusta and a charming place to explore in Wisconsin. It was built a mere 16 years after Wisconsin became a state, in 1864, and it was at one point a place where farmers gathered to get all of their grinding done.
The building is still in good condition and it is a definite eye-catcher, just like the nearby dam that lends some uniqueness to the area. There is also a museum nearby, so when you visit Dells Mill, you’ll have a lot more to look at and enjoy than just the mill itself.
5. Door County – combines scenery, outdoor adventures, and beautiful shorelines with an arty vibe
Located in northeast Wisconsin, Door County is breath-taking in more ways than one. It looks like the small towns of yesteryear regardless of which season you visit, and it truly offers something for everyone. The county covers from Cave Point County Park in Sturgeon Bay all the way to the famous Winding Road in Gills Rock and to Washington Island.
It is a great way to spend the day if natural beauty is what you enjoy seeing when you’re out touring different areas, in part because of the trees and unique buildings strewn about in the area.
6. Mirror Lake – a beautiful and tranquil lake to explore and stay
Located in Baraboo, you’ll understand this lake’s name as soon as you see it because the water is so spectacular that you can clearly see the reflections of the trees and everything else that surrounds it.
It isn’t just great for looking at, however, as you can also enjoy this lake and the area surrounding it to go boating, camping, and hiking, among other activities. For people who love the outdoors and the miracle of nature, this is a lake you won’t want to miss while you’re visiting this great state.
7. Pattison State Park – one of the best things to do for nature lovers and home to the highest waterfalls in Wisconsin
Wisconsin has dozens of state parks, and this one, which is located in the northwestern part of the state, is definitely one of the most beautiful spots to visit in Wisconsin.
The biggest attraction there is Big Manitou Falls, which is the tallest waterfall in the state of Wisconsin. Whether you want to have a picnic, go hiking, or just relax and enjoy some of the beauty of the area, Pattison State Park will never disappoint. It is near the town of Superior and truly offers something for everyone.
8. Vilas County – an area filled with scenic and beautiful sights perfect for vacations
Vilas County can be found in the north-central part of the state and contains a host of iconic towns such as Phelps, Eagle River, and St. Germain, among others. When you visit these towns, it will bring you back to days gone by, but it isn’t just the houses and buildings that bring back nostalgic feelings.
Part of its charm also comes from the inland chain of freshwater lakes, which is one of the largest on the planet. If you love stepping back in time and enjoying unusual beauty and ambiance, Vilas County is definitely for you.
9. Wisconsin Dells – a region of glacier-carved sandstone formations a must-see unique attraction
When people think of Wisconsin Dells, they usually think of the water park first, but there is much more to it than this. Although the water park is spectacular, the deep, narrow gorges and totally unique rock formations along the Wisconsin River provide a way to calm yourself, rent a canoe, and enjoy its peaceful, quiet waters.
The area is gorgeous, of course, but its ambiance is partly due to the tranquility and peacefulness of the area. If you truly want to get away from it all for a bit, this is the area of Wisconsin you want to be in.
10. Pewits Nest State Natural Area – a stunning nature reserve to explore in Wisconsin
This deep gorge, located in Baraboo, is nothing short of spectacular in its design, colors, and overall beauty. It is surrounded by tall, stately pine trees and majestic bluffs. There is also a gorgeous stream that runs right through it, so whether you want to go canoeing or on a picnic somewhere on the grounds, you can easily find something fun to do at Pewits Nest.
The area is also very old because it was formed during the retreat of the very last glacier. They don’t call this a natural area for nothing, because only nature can create something this extraordinary. This is a must-see on your list of things to do in Wisconsin.
11. Driftless Area – a gorgeous place to visit which is home to a unique geography
Located in the southwestern part of the state, the stunning Driftless Area will challenge anyone who has the notion that Wisconsin is a flat state. In fact, this area is very hilly and when you’re there, you won’t be able to take your eyes off of the scenery around you.
But be careful – the roads are beautiful but a bit winding, so you’ll need to use caution as you drive. Still, the topography in this part of the state is very diverse, and the longer you drive, the more fascinating things you’ll be able to see and experience.
12. Dave’s Falls – home to scenic Falls and rock formations
Located in Amberg, if you love waterfalls, you’ll love Dave’s Falls. But unlike many other waterfalls, this one isn’t for canoeing or kayaking in because it has far too many large and bumpy rocks. Instead, just hike along the side of the Pike River and maybe stop after a while to have a picnic.
You can thoroughly enjoy the falls regardless of where you are on the hiking trail, so just because you can’t get on the water itself while you’re there doesn’t mean this area of Wisconsin shouldn’t be on your bucket list. It is an absolutely beautiful area that you will very likely visit more than once.
13. Allen Centennial Gardens – one of the best places to visit in Wisconsin
Located smack dab in the middle of the campus of the University of Wisconsin at Madison, this is actually a teaching garden but is worth a special trip to visit.
Built in the 1980s around a Queen Anne-style home, the gardens are stunning and boast some of the most beautiful plant life you’ve ever seen. It is very neat and well-maintained, and if you enjoy old homes and lots of lush, healthy greenery, this is the place for you. Still a great teaching facility, this garden is definitely a tourist attraction you will never forget.
14. Marinette County – one of the most attractive destinations to explore in Wisconsin
When it comes to beautiful locations in Wisconsin, Marinette County will never disappoint. Located in the northeastern part of the state, this county isn’t called the waterfall capital of Wisconsin for nothing. In fact, there is a total of 14 exquisite waterfalls there, along with some of the most gorgeous scenery you’ve ever seen.
You can also go camping or hiking there, but it’s the clear rushing waters that attract people the most. This is the perfect place to visit for anyone who loves to hike, go camping, or simply enjoy nature at its finest.
15. National Ice Age Scenic Trail – a trail that travels through some of the state’s most beautiful natural areas
This trail is amazing and runs throughout many areas in the state. It is 1,000 miles long and the perfect footpath, and it is never that far from you regardless of where you live.
If viewing Wisconsin’s glacial landscapes is what you want to do, this is the trail you want to be on. Best of all, most of it is comfortable to hike on even if you’re just wearing tennis shoes, but if you’re a serious hiker, you might want to bring along a comfortable pair of hiking boots instead just to be on the safe side. One of the best and beautiful places to explore in Wisconsin – enjoy!
16. Big Bay State Park – easily one of the coolest places to visit in Wisconsin
Founded in the 1960s, this majestic Wisconsin attraction is the largest of the Apostle Islands archipelago where visitors can witness scenic sandstone bluffs.
Big Bay State Park has a 4 miles shoreline of Lake Superior and a 1-mile esplanade featuring golden sandy beaches, over 9 miles of hiking trails and a spacious campground great for families.
Furthermore, visitors can benefit from picnic areas that provide tables, drinking water, toilets and much more!
The park is open year-round and it’s free for pedestrians and cyclists – this has to be one of the best things to do in Wisconsin if you are a nature aficionado!
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Gary Nunn
Gary is an award winning full time professional photographer and videographer with too much wanderlust for his own good. Fuelled by strong coffee, you’ll often find him wandering well off hiking trails in search of interesting photographic subjects or scenery to video. Self taught and with the use of pioneering digital techniques, he quickly built up a strong client base and has worked with many prestigious organisations, including GQ, BBC, London Fashion Week, Grazia, Sky, Metro, Vogue Italia. He specialising in evocative images of people, places and cinematic videography and his goal is to make the viewer look twice and engage. As well as a penchant for good design, the ketogenic diet and Hungarian Vizslas, he also has a huge affection for Chicago, Bucharest, Scandinavia, Croatia and absolutely everywhere in Italy. Find him on Instagram @garynansome,Twitter @garynansomeand his website https://garynunn.co.uk/
FAQs
What is the number 1 attraction in Wisconsin? ›
1. Oshkosh. The small town of Oshkosh on Lake Winnebago, northwest of Milwaukee, is famous for two things: the popular line of kids' clothing and its place on the world's airshow circuit. The world's largest meeting of aviators, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh has been held here every summer since 1970.
Is Wisconsin a pretty state? ›I may be biased but I'm here to make a declaration: Wisconsin is one of the most gorgeous states in the entire nation. From the ridges and valleys of the Driftless Area to the tall pines in the Northwoods to the rolling farmland throughout the entire state, Wisconsin is a stunner.
What is the nicest part of Wisconsin? ›Whitefish Bay ranked as the best place to live in Wisconsin, Niche report says. Whitefish Bay, you're back to No. 1. The suburb in Milwaukee's North Shore topped Niche's annual "Best Places to Live" online rankings in 2021.
What is the most visited city in Wisconsin? ›1. Madison. The most popular city in Wisconsin, Madison pronounces as the Capital of the State. It is the fastest-growing city of Wisconsin, with tourism being one of the major businesses here.
What is unique to Wisconsin? ›Wisconsin is a leading producer of Ginseng in the United States. Green Bay is known as the "Toilet Paper Capital" of the world. The first ice cream sundae was concocted in Two Rivers in 1881. The Fox River is one of the few rivers in the nation that flows north.
What is the prettiest US state? ›Home to nine national parks (more parks than any other state in the country), California is undoubtedly the most beautiful state in America for natural wonders. From sandy beaches drenched in sunlight to majestic granite mountains, arid desert landscapes and the tallest trees in the world, California has it all.
What's the best state to visit? ›- 1. California. From rural villages to cities and mountains to ocean, you can discover every bit of America within the borders of California . ...
- Colorado. With the exception of maybe California, few states are as beautiful as Colorado . ...
- Florida. ...
- Massachusetts. ...
- Wisconsin. ...
- Utah. ...
- Louisiana.
The cost of living in Wisconsin is 4% lower than the national average. Housing is 11% lower than the national average, while utilities are 0% . When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 2% lower than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 2% lower.
What is the nicest town in Iowa? ›- Pella.
- Amana Colonies.
- Bentonsport.
- Decorah.
- Dyersville.
- Orange City.
- Mount Vernon.
- Elk Horn.
1: Iowa State Capitol
While you can tour the Iowa State Capitol online via pictures and videos, this attraction is well worth a visit in person. The Capitol is impossible to miss, with its large 23-karat golden dome visible from anywhere nearby in Des Moines.
What is the safest town in Iowa? ›
Sioux Center
Sioux Center is our top pick for the safest city in the state of Iowa. The town is known for its strong Dutch heritage and fertile soil, resulting in several Dutch-style churches and a rich agricultural economy. Also of note is Sioux Center's college, Dordt University.
| Rank | City | County |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Middleton | Dane County |
| 2 | Delafield | Waukesha County |
| 3 | Troy | St. Croix County |
| 4 | St. Joseph | St. Croix County |
Black Oak Lake may not be the largest, but its small size and spring feed allow it to remain the clearest lake in Wisconsin. It is touted as one of the best swimming lakes because of its excellent water clarity, which allows you to see the bottom at 30 feet below.
What is the friendliest town in Wisconsin? ›- Potosi is a very old town. ...
- History is alive in Potosi. ...
- Down in the village, more attractions await. ...
- The brewery is a welcoming family friendly spot with great food and of course, some outstanding Potosi Beer.
- Evansville. Violent crime for Evansville ranks 100% below the national average, and property crime occurs about 89% less than in the rest of the U.S. ...
- Cottage Grove. ...
- Hartland. ...
- Sheboygan Falls. ...
- Kronenwetter. ...
- Oregon. ...
- Hobart. ...
- Sturtevant.
- Merrill.
- Sturtevant.
- Marinette.
- Suamico.
- Rothschild.
- New London.
- Wisconsin Rapids.
- Little Chute.
...
This Is the Poorest County in Wisconsin.
| Poorest County | Sumter County |
|---|---|
| Largest Place in County | Livingston |
| Median Household Income | $24,320 |
| State Median Household Income | $50,536 |
| Poverty Rate | 31.8% |
Elm Grove No.
Of 49 suburban ZIP codes, Elm Grove's 53122 ranked first, with a median household income of $119,512 per year, according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Okauchee (53069) was second, followed by Mequon (53097), Colgate (53017) and River Hills (53217).
living in Wisconsin
Wisconsin is considered a great place to live for its good schools, easily affordable big cities, beautiful natural vistas, and midwestern hospitality. The cities of Milwaukee, Eau Claire, and Appleton remain some of the top spots to raise a family in the United States.
Wisconsin is known as “America's Dairyland,” so some of their most popular foods include cheese curds and custard. Wisconsinites also enjoy brats, cream puffs and fish fries or fish boils.
Why you should visit Wisconsin? ›
Whether you're looking for cosmopolitan flair, small-town fun or outdoors adventures, you'll find it in Wisconsin. The Apostle Islands, Cave of the Mounds, the State Capitol in Madison, water parks in the Wisconsin Dells and Frank Lloyd Wright buildings are just a few of the state's highlights.
How many national parks are in Wisconsin? ›So, how many national parks are in Wisconsin? Of the more than 400+ units in the National Park Service, there are 2 national parks in Wisconsin and 2 National Scenic Trails (affiliated sites).
Why is Wisconsin so famous? ›The state is one of the nation's leading dairy producers and is known as "America's Dairyland"; it is particularly famous for its cheese. The state is also famous for its beer, particularly and historically in Milwaukee, most notably as the headquarters of the Miller Brewing Company.
What cheese is only made in Wisconsin? ›Brick and Colby cheese were first created in Wisconsin and Limburger—the world's single foulest-smelling cheese—is made only in Monroe. 4.
What state has the most beautiful woman? ›Connecticut tops the chart as the state with the most beautiful women while Manhattan, NY is the number one city.
What is the least beautiful state? ›Kansas ranked least beautiful state by travel publication Thrillist.
What is the most fun state? ›- California. Total score: 63.60. ...
- Florida. Total score: 61.26. ...
- Nevada. Total score: 59.84. ...
- New York. Total score: 56.11. ...
- Illinois. Total score: 55.33. ...
- Colorado. Total score: 51.38. ...
- Washington. Total score: 50.64. ...
- Texas. Total score: 50.27.
- #1. Washington.
- #2. Minnesota.
- #3. Utah.
- #4. New Hampshire.
- #5. Idaho.
1. California
Millions of travelers crowd to California to visit the national monuments, historical places, parks, and beaches. California's most popular tourist destinations are Disneyland, which is visited by almost 15 million people annually. Other popular attractions in the state are: Yosemite National park.
Texas is 0.5% cheaper than Wisconsin.
Is it cheaper to live in Florida or Wisconsin? ›
Florida is 9.3% more expensive than Wisconsin.
What's the cheapest state to live in? ›Coming in as the cheapest state to live in in the United States is Mississippi with a cost of living index score of 83.3. It also has the lowest average housing costs in the nation at 33.7% below the national average.
Is Wisconsin a good state to live in? ›Since home prices and rents are both quite reasonable here. Furthermore, adding to the Wisconsin quality of life are a few different things. Such as rural or city living options. Low crime rates, good health care, access to quality schools, and a chance to enjoy all four weather seasons.
Where are the best fall colors in Wisconsin? ›One of the best ways to see the best fall foliage in Wisconsin is by driving the roughly 90-mile Door County Coastal Byway that loops around the peninsula and passes sections of Lake Michigan's striking coastline.
What is Wisconsin known for? ›The state is one of the nation's leading dairy producers and is known as "America's Dairyland"; it is particularly famous for its cheese. The state is also famous for its beer, particularly and historically in Milwaukee, most notably as the headquarters of the Miller Brewing Company.
Why should I visit Wisconsin? ›Whether you're looking for cosmopolitan flair, small-town fun or outdoors adventures, you'll find it in Wisconsin. The Apostle Islands, Cave of the Mounds, the State Capitol in Madison, water parks in the Wisconsin Dells and Frank Lloyd Wright buildings are just a few of the state's highlights.
Is Wisconsin rich or poor? ›Wisconsin ranked 15th in latest Rich States, Poor States report.
Why are people moving out of Wisconsin? ›High Tax Rates
Wisconsin ranks fifth in the nation regarding taxes, placing a staggering 11% tax on its residents. Because this extra cost burdens the daily lives of those living in the state, more and more people are choosing to leave Wisconsin for lower tax rates and higher salaries in surrounding areas.
The cost of living in Wisconsin is 4% lower than the national average. Housing is 11% lower than the national average, while utilities are 0% . When it comes to basic necessities such as food and clothing, groceries are around 2% lower than in the rest of the country, while clothing costs 2% lower.
What colors are in this fall 2022? ›Royal purple, jewel-tone teal, and burning red are all trending hues incorporated on the Fall/Winter 2022 runways, each with its glamorous style.
How long do fall colors last in Wisconsin? ›
If you want to catch the fall foliage at its pinnacle, you need to plan those weekend excursions. Wisconsin will probably hit its peak within the next six weeks. On average, extreme northern Wisconsin witnesses the peak of fall colors during the last week of September or the first two weeks of October.
What trees turn red in the fall in Wisconsin? ›Northern Red Oak
Every Wisconsinite loves fall, and loves to prolong the fall season. The Northern Red Oak is notorious for changing color in late autumn, forcing these dark red leaves to stay on the branch longer.
Green Bay, located along the banks of the Fox River, is the oldest settlement in Wisconsin.
What are 3 things Wisconsin is known for? ›Wisconsin is known for its diary farms, ginseng production, and cold winters. It is a great place to visit if you want to get a taste of America's Midwest. The state is also home to some famous tourist destinations, like the Milwaukee Art Museum and Cave of the Mounds.
What is the nicest part of Wisconsin? ›Whitefish Bay ranked as the best place to live in Wisconsin, Niche report says. Whitefish Bay, you're back to No. 1. The suburb in Milwaukee's North Shore topped Niche's annual "Best Places to Live" online rankings in 2021.
What is the most visited city in Wisconsin? ›1. Madison. The most popular city in Wisconsin, Madison pronounces as the Capital of the State. It is the fastest-growing city of Wisconsin, with tourism being one of the major businesses here.
Is Milwaukee worth visiting? ›Milwaukee is on the rise
One of the best things about Milwaukee is that it never seems to stop growing. Visit only once a year and you may notice new buildings, new street art, or even a completely new vibe to the entire city. Improvement is definitely a Milwaukee staple, which makes every visit different and unique.