Experience Wisconsin: Top Activities for Every Season
Whether you’re heading to the Badger State for exhilarating summer festivals or looking forward to winter hiking and cross-country skiing, Wisconsin has something for everyone.
Warm-weather enthusiasts will find plenty of outdoor music and cultural festivals to enjoy, while colder months present a great opportunity to explore nature, museums, and the state’s renowned culinary scene. Regardless of your visit period, Wisconsin promises unforgettable experiences.
Catch an Outdoor Concert
In the summer, Wisconsin resonates with the sounds of live music. The state’s most celebrated music event is Summerfest, a 10-day outdoor concert series in Milwaukee featuring dozens of performances each day. While international acts perform in the Marcus Amphitheater, smaller local bands take the stage on intimate setups spread throughout the grounds. Genres range from rock and hip-hop to country and bluegrass, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. Beyond Summerfest, outdoor concerts continue at Marcus Amphitheater throughout summer and fall, providing more opportunities to enjoy live performances.
Approximately 40 miles southwest of Milwaukee, Elkhorn hosts the Alpine Valley Music Theater, which accommodates up to 37,000 attendees. For country music fans, the Hodag Country Festival gathers thousands of campers in northern Wisconsin, while bluegrass enthusiasts can head to the Blue Ox Music Festival in Eau Claire. Meanwhile, central Wisconsin hosts Rock Fest, the largest rock and camping festival in the nation. Numerous cities across the state also feature free weekly outdoor concerts at parks and botanical gardens during the summer.
Explore Wisconsin’s Diverse Festivals
Many of Wisconsin’s well-known festivals take place on the Summerfest grounds in central Milwaukee. During non-Summerfest weekends in both summer and fall, visitors can enjoy food truck gatherings and cultural events celebrating the city’s vibrant ethnic diversity. The Wisconsin State Fair, also hosted in Milwaukee each August, is a grand festival featuring food, music, rides, and entertainment suitable for couples, groups, and families. In Madison, the beloved Brat Fest attracts attendees who devour around 200,000 bratwursts in a single weekend.
Indulge in the State’s Official Desserts
The debate over Wisconsin’s official state dessert revolves around two favorites: cream puffs and kringle. The cream puff is a delicacy found primarily at the Wisconsin State Fair in August, while kringle can be enjoyed year-round at various bakeries and supermarkets. Racine is recognized as the kringle capital of the nation, and visitors will discover authentic, Racine-baked kringle readily available throughout southeastern Wisconsin.
Enjoy a Day at the Beach
With over 800 miles of Great Lakes coastline and 200 miles of Mississippi River shoreline, Wisconsin is home to a vast array of stunning beaches. From urban beaches in Milwaukee to quaint beaches nestled in front of cozy cabins in the Northwoods, you’ll find the perfect slice of sand to unwind in no matter your location within the state.
Tour a Brewery and Sample Local Brews
If Wisconsin had an official state drink, it would likely be a toss-up between milk and beer. Milwaukee is famously known as “Brew City,” showcasing an impressive array of breweries. Visitors can tour establishments like Pabst Brewery, MobCraft, Lakefront Brewery, Miller Brewing, and Milwaukee Brewing Company.
In Madison, which is also a college town and the state capital, breweries such as Capital Brewery and the female- and LGBTIQ-owned Giant Jones Brewing Company offer unique experiences. Additionally, you’ll encounter gluten-free options like ALT Brew, ensuring there’s something for every palate. Across the state, from New Glarus Brewing Company in the south to Sand Creek Brewing Company in Black River Falls, you can find a remarkable variety of breweries to explore.
Savor Authentic Wisconsin Cheese
Wisconsin, nicknamed the Dairy State, has a reputation for its exceptional cheese products. Visitors are encouraged to sample a variety of cheeses throughout the state, particularly in specialty stores, cheese shops, and supermarkets. Notably, the Mars Cheese Castle in Kenosha offers a large selection. Cheese curds are even available in bulk at some gas stations. Cheese aficionados should visit Milwaukee’s West Allis Cheese & Sausage Shoppe and Wisconsin Cheese Mart, as well as Fromagination in Madison, for top-notch selections.
Discover the Scenic Hiking Trails
Whether seeking an easy family-friendly stroll in a city park or committing to a multi-day backpacking adventure, Wisconsin boasts phenomenal hiking opportunities among its diverse landscapes. Each season offers different charms—spring brings vibrant wildflowers, summer reveals lush greenery, autumn showcases breathtaking foliage, and winter provides snowy trails with fewer crowds. So, be sure to prepare for all seasons and enjoy Wisconsin’s natural beauty!
Cycling on the Scenic Rail Trails
Wisconsin features a network of rail trails, dating back to the 1960s, which provide car-free paths for cyclists and pedestrians. The state is home to nearly 2000 miles of trails, including Milwaukee’s Beerline Trail, a scenic route connecting parks and notable breweries. Other notable trails include the 52-mile Heart of Vilas County Bike Trail System. While ambitious riders might choose to complete lengthy routes in a day, they’ll find numerous picnic spots, swimming areas, and campgrounds perfect for multi-day explorations.
Experience the Tranquility of the Northwoods
For a true taste of Wisconsin’s culture, a visit to the remote Northwoods is essential. Going “up north” to a cabin or campsite is a cherished tradition. In this picturesque region, visitors can enjoy the serenity of pine forests, the aroma of nighttime campfires, and peaceful lakes and rivers. Encountering wildlife such as bears and deer, while taking part in fishing activities, adds to the enriching experience of Wisconsin’s natural wonders.
