Map Of Central Wisconsin Travel Guide
Introduction
Central Wisconsin is a hidden gem in the Midwest, offering a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, cultural immersion, or a relaxing retreat, Central Wisconsin has something for everyone. In this travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and more to help you make the most of your trip.
Top Attractions
Wisconsin Dells
Wisconsin Dells is known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World” and is a popular destination for families. With over 20 indoor and outdoor waterparks, there’s no shortage of fun to be had. The Dells also offers other attractions such as mini-golf, go-karts, and boat tours of the Wisconsin River.
Lambeau Field
If you’re a football fan, a visit to Lambeau Field is a must. Home of the Green Bay Packers, Lambeau Field offers guided tours of the stadium and a Packers Hall of Fame exhibit. On game days, the stadium is packed with enthusiastic fans, creating an unforgettable experience.
Hidden Gems
Devil’s Lake State Park
Devil’s Lake State Park is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of Central Wisconsin. With hiking trails, swimming beaches, and rock climbing opportunities, there’s plenty to keep you busy. The park also offers camping options for those who want to stay overnight.
Crystal River
The Crystal River is a hidden gem for kayakers and nature lovers. The river is crystal clear and offers views of wildlife such as turtles, fish, and birds. Kayak rentals are available in the nearby town of Wautoma.
Food Scene
Central Wisconsin offers a variety of dining options, from casual pubs to fine dining restaurants. Some of the must-try dishes include Wisconsin cheese curds, bratwurst, and fish fry. For a sweet treat, be sure to try a Kringle, a Danish pastry that is a specialty of the area.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling on a budget? Central Wisconsin has plenty of affordable options. Consider camping at one of the state parks, packing a picnic lunch instead of eating out, and taking advantage of free attractions such as hiking trails and beaches.
Outdoor Adventures
Central Wisconsin is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you’re into hiking, biking, fishing, or kayaking, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to get outside and explore. Some of the top outdoor attractions include Rib Mountain State Park, the Green Circle Trail, and the Ice Age Trail.
Family-Friendly Activities
Central Wisconsin is a great destination for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids of all ages entertained. In addition to the waterparks and amusement parks in Wisconsin Dells, families can enjoy the Children’s Museum of Green Bay, the Central Wisconsin Children’s Museum, and the Milwaukee Zoo.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, consider these off-the-beaten-path experiences. Take a tour of the Red Granite Correctional Institution, home to over 1,200 inmates, or visit the Fordem Avenue Historic District in Oshkosh, which features over 100 historic homes and buildings.
Natural Wonders
Central Wisconsin is home to some stunning natural wonders, including the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore, the Niagara Escarpment, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest. These areas offer opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing.
Vibrant Nightlife
If you’re looking for a night out, Central Wisconsin has plenty of options. From breweries and wineries to live music venues and dance clubs, there’s something for everyone. Some of the top nightlife spots include the Central Waters Brewing Company in Amherst and the Grand Theater in Wausau.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for locally made goods, be sure to check out the farmers markets in Central Wisconsin. These markets offer fresh produce, baked goods, crafts, and more. Some of the top markets include the Stevens Point Farmers Market and the Wausau Farmers Market.
Beaches and Mountains
Central Wisconsin may not have oceans or towering peaks, but it does have some beautiful beaches and mountains. Some of the top beaches include Point Beach State Forest and Neshotah Beach, while Rib Mountain State Park offers scenic mountain views.
Cultural Immersion
Central Wisconsin has a rich cultural history, with influences from Native American tribes, European settlers, and more. To learn more about the area’s cultural heritage, visit the Menominee Indian Reservation, the Ho-Chunk Nation, or the Nordic Heritage Center in Wausau.
Art and Music Scene
Central Wisconsin has a thriving arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and concert venues throughout the region. Some of the top spots include the Leigh Yawkey Woodson Art Museum in Wausau, the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra, and the Weill Center for the Performing Arts in Sheboygan.
Walking Tours
If you want to explore Central Wisconsin on foot, consider taking a walking tour. These tours offer a guided experience of the area’s history, architecture, and culture. Some of the top tours include the Historic Downtown Wausau Walking Tour and the Stevens Point Sculpture Park Tour.
Architectural Marvels
Central Wisconsin is home to some impressive architectural marvels, including the Marshfield Clinic Health System, which features a stunning atrium, and the Basilica of St. Josaphat in Milwaukee, which is modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome.
Historical Sites
Central Wisconsin has a rich history, with sites that date back to the Native American tribes who first inhabited the area. Some of the top historical sites include the Paine Art Center and Gardens in Oshkosh, the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in Manitowoc, and the Heritage Hill State Historical Park in Green Bay.
Biking Routes
If you prefer to explore Central Wisconsin on two wheels, there are plenty of biking routes to choose from. Some of the top routes include the Mountain Bay State Trail, which runs 83 miles from Wausau to Green Bay, and the Great River State Trail, which runs 24 miles along the Mississippi River.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway, Central Wisconsin has plenty of wellness retreats to choose from. Some of the top options include the Aspira Spa at The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, the Sundara Inn and Spa in Wisconsin Dells, and the Kohler Waters Spa in Kohler.
Adventure Sports
Central Wisconsin is a great destination for adventure sports, with opportunities for skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing in the winter, and zip lining, rock climbing, and kayaking in the summer. Some of the top adventure sports destinations include Granite Peak Ski Area in Wausau and Vertical Illusions in Wisconsin Dells.
Conclusion
Central Wisconsin offers a variety of attractions for visitors to enjoy. From outdoor adventures to cultural immersion, there’s something for everyone. We hope this travel guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Central Wisconsin and explore all that this hidden gem has to offer.