Wisconsin Travel Guide

Wisconsin is the place to visit for a classic Midwest experience. It may be known for its cold winters and dairy farms, but Wisconsin is more than farmland and frozen tundra. Any big football fan will want to make a pilgrimage to the legendary Lambeau Field in Green Bay. Beer enthusiasts should head to the bustling city of Milwaukee. Wisconsin Dells, known as the “Waterpark Capital of the World,” is a popular destination for family-friendly fun. And don’t forget to try some cheese curds from…well, anywhere really.

Did you know that Wisconsin is on the coast?

The coast of Lake Superior and Lake Michigan that is, two of the world’s Great Lakes. Head to Bayfield to discover the Apostle Islands, a group of 22 islands in Lake Superior. And for a picturesque setting with orchards, vineyards, and a vibrant arts scene, visit the charming coastal towns in Door County. With vast views of Lake Michigan, it can be hard to believe you’re still in America’s Dairyland.

Destinations

Bayfield & Apostle Islands

Lighthouse in the Apostle Islands, Wisconsin

Lake Superior coastline in Bayfield, Wisconsin

Wisconsin Basics

Nickname: The Badger State

Capital City: Madison

Timezone: Central Standard & Central Daylight

Climate: Humid Continental (four distinct seasons marked by warm summers and cold, snowy winters)

Major Airport: Milwaukee Mitchell (MKE)

Local Cuisine: Cheese curds, frozen custard, bratwurst, fish boil, fried fish, and cherries

Notable Wildlife: White-tailed deer, badgers, black bears, grey wolves, and moose

Autumn apple orchard in Door County, Wisconsin

Best Time to Visit

SUMMER
Summers are typically a great time to visit Wisconsin; however, they can also get uncomfortably hot and humid. For more comfortable weather, head to the coast of Lake Michigan or Lake Superior.

AUTUMN
Fall is spectacular in Wisconsin! Door County is notable for having some of the best autumn colors in the country. Unfortunately, the autumn season is also quite short, lasting only from around late September through mid-October.

WINTER
Lasting from November through early April, winters are long and bitterly cold in Wisconsin. Blizzards, high winds, and temps well below freezing are common. If you do find yourself here during the winter and want to brave the weather, there are plenty of activities to try like snowshoeing, ice skating, or exploring the Apostle Island ice caves.

SPRING
This is a short and unpredictable season in Wisconsin. It can be sunny and warm one day and then cold and snowing the next. Late spring is, generally, a good time to visit, but keep in mind that you may experience some bizarre temperature swings.