Wisconsin Summer Family Fun

Wisconsin Summer Family Fun

Are you as excited as me for summer to finally come to Wisconsin? I cannot even tell you how much I am looking forward to it, I started looking up some things I want to do and see with my family this summer in Wisconsin. There are some traditional things, but I also found some really fun & unique things to see this summer in Wisconsin! Check them out!

1. Riverwalk & “Bronze Fonz”

Milwaukee’s RiverWalk extends for more than 15 city temporary public art displays along this scenic promenade of restaurants, cafes, pubs and shops. At the southeast corner of Wells Street and the RiverWalk, be sure to stop for a thumbs-up photo with the “Bronze Fonz” – a life-sized statue of Henry Winkler’s iconic character “Fonzie” from the Milwaukee-based “Happy Days” TV show.blocks, linking the city’s downtown district with the Historic Third Ward. Source: Visit Milwaukee

2. Third Ward & Milwaukee Public Market

Discover the Historic Third Ward on foot! The revitalization of this turn-of-the-century warehouse and manufacturing district has earned it comparisons to New York’s trendy SoHo neighborhood. This six-square-block area located directly south of downtown contains the city’s highest concentration of art galleries, as well as theaters and a selection of exclusive boutiques, specialty stores, restaurants, nightlife and the Milwaukee Public Market. Source: Visit Milwaukee

3. Minocqua Getaway

The beautiful Minocqua Area has over 3,200 lakes, streams, and ponds for everyone to enjoy. Visit for a day or stay for a week, whatever you prefer. We guarantee that you will find impressive beauty, many recreational activities, excellent dining, quaint shops, and a variety of accommodations to satisfy everyone’s needs. Come experience the beauty for yourself. Source: Escape to Wisconsin

 

4. Milwaukee County Zoo

Where better to take the family for an unforgettable visit than the nationally-recognized Milwaukee County Zoo? More than 2,500 animals, from bonobos to polar bears, and big cats to giraffes, are housed on 200 acres of natural habitats. Kids love the zoo train, and the new Sky Trail® Wisconsin Adventure Zone challenges all ages to try out the 500-ft zip line, climbing wall and ropes course. Source: Visit Milwaukee

 

5. Brady Street

Formerly an old Italian neighborhood and then the hippie haven of the 60’s, Brady Street today is a walk-around neighborhood with a diverse citizenry known for historic architecture, a wide variety of specialty shops and boutiques, great Milwaukee bars, restaurants and coffee shops. You’ll enjoy authentic Italian family businesses such as Glorioso’s Italian Market and Sciortino’s Bakery, that have been serving East Side residents for decades. As Oscar Wilde once remarked when visiting the neighborhood early in the century, “If what you want isn’t on Brady Street, you probably don’t need it.”  Source: Visit Milwaukee

 

6. View from Holy Hill

The structure sits atop 400 wooded acres in the southern Kettle Moraine countryside. Climb the observation tower’s 178 steps (in warmer months, only) and you’ll see the skyline of Milwaukee to the east. Believe it or not, you’ll almost see all the way to Madison if you look west. Worshipers and tourists, alike, can visit the 14 groups of life-size sculptures and stroll Wisconsin’s Ice Age Trail. Source: OnMilwaukee.com

7. Jelly Belly Warehouse Tours

Sweet sensations and a world of delight await you at the Jelly Belly Visitor Center. Located in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, near Kenosha and Racine, 30 minutes south of Milwaukee, and 90 minutes north of Chicago, the Jelly Belly Visitor Center features full-throttle fun on the FREE Jelly Belly Express Train Tour. The Visitor Center is designed so visitors can take a tour of our warehouse (really, it’s fun!) and taste the magic of the original gourmet Jelly Belly jelly bean. The 25-30 minute train ride makes stops at a variety of Stations with large screen video monitors showing the company’s century of candy making and how we make candy corn, jelly beans, gummies and more. Source: Jelly Belly

7. Little Norway

Little Norway is a preserved farm originally founded by Norwegian immigrants who spent their first winter living in a dugout, then emerged to build traditional Norwegian farm buildings on the land. Today you can see a combination of how that family lived along with the improvements made by a wealthy Chicago industrialist who took pride in his Norwegian heritage. The largest buildings house exhibits of farm and Norwegian immigrant life, like kitchen utensils, drinking bowls, clothing and farm implements. The buildings alone make for an interesting tour and you can buy Norwegian books and knick-knacks in the gift shop. The grounds also house the original but transplanted Norwegian building from the 1920s Chicago World’s Fair, it’s third location. Little Norway is located just 20 miles west of Madison, WI, off of State Highway 18-151. Source: Little Norway

7. Cave of the Mounds

Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark is celebrating 75 years as the premier cave in the upper Midwest and the jewel box of America’s major show caves. Guided tours of this geologic wonder follow paved, lighted walkways departing regularly everyday of the year. Tours pass a stunning array of colorful crystal formations on paved lighted walkways.  Visitors also enjoy our Gemstone Mine, Fossil Dig, Butterfly Gardens, Amazing Rock/Gift Shops, Hiking/Biking Trails, Snack Bar and Picnic Area.  Birthday Party Packages, Camps, School and Scout Programs are also available.  Cave of the Mounds National Natural Landmark is located in southwest Wisconsin just 20 minutes west of Madison, off U.S. Highways 18/151. Source: Cave of the Mounds

8. House on the Rock

Designed and built by Alex Jordan of Madison, WI, the House is an architectural marvel perched on a 60-foot chimney of rock. Begun in the early 1940’s, it overlooks the breathtaking panorama of Wyoming Valley. The 14-room House, sculpted atop Deer Shelter Rock, is the original structure of what is now an extraordinary complex of rooms, streets, buildings and gardens covering over 200 acres. A 375-foot ramp through treetops takes visitors to the entrance of the House where a bell gallery, waterfalls, massive fireplaces and walls of rock can been seen. Furnishings include Oriental art, stained glass lamps, bronze statuary and a three-story bookcase filled with rare books. The 14th room was added in 1985 and proves to be the most spectacular, the Infinity Room. This unique room with walls of glass, projects out over the Wyoming Valley 218 feet. A glass cocktail table provides visitors with a breathtaking view of the forest floor 156 feet below. With 3,264 windows, there’s no doubt about it, there truly is no other room like it in the world. Source: House on the Rock

 

9. Visit New Glarus

Whether you’re visiting New Glarus for a week, a day or just pedaling through, it’s easy to see why our Swiss founders chose to settle in the picturesque hills of Green County. More than 150 years later, New Glarus is as beautiful as ever, and we continue to celebrate our rich heritage with attractions sure to delight: festivals, museums, shopping, lodging, dining, plus so much more. The historic Swiss charm of New Glarus awaits you. Source: Swiss Town | New Glarus

10. Lady of the Lake, Lake Geneva

Lake Geneva is surrounded by magnificent country homes from Chicago’s corrupt aristocracy and industrial barons. The lake itself is very deep and has been the countryside escape for many rich Chicagoans over time. The Lady of the Lake takes you on a narrated tour of the lake, explaining homes, murders, and history in easy fashion. You can listen and take in the sights, or you can sleep and enjoy the fresh air. Source: Lake Geneva Cruise Line

11. Devil’s Lake State Park

Ancient 500-foot bluffs ring a spring-fed lake at one of Wisconsin’s oldest state parks. Devil’s Lake is one of nine units of the Ice Age National Scientific Reserve and contains ancient effigy mounds constructed by prehistoric American Indians. The state park has a wealth of flora and fauna; some 105 species of birds nest in the park. There are 15 miles of hiking trails, nearly 500 campsites and idyllic boating and fishing on Devil’s Lake, which is stocked with brown trout, walleye and northern pike. Bicycles are permitted on several trails, which double as cross-country trails in winter. Source: Devil’s Lake State Park Visitor Guide

12. Bayfield & the Apostle Islands

Named one of the ten best national park destinations in 2005 by the National Geographic Traveler Magazine, the Apostle Islands National Lakeshore is Wisconsin’s northernmost landscape, jutting into Lake Superior as the scenic archipelago of 21 of 22 Apostle Islands. Located in Lake Superior, this area’s scenic, historical, biological and recreational values were recognized in 1970 when Congress named twenty of the islands and 2,500 acres of the peninsula as a national lakeshore. In 1986 Long Island was included and in 2004, the Gaylord Nelson Wilderness including 33,500 acres of Lake Superior shoreline was established. This fascinating Lake Superior national lakeshore features a combination of spectacular natural beauty and rich cultural history. The wooded islands are trimmed with sea caves, sandstone cliffs, and miles of pristine sand beaches. Six of Lake Superior’s light stations were built in the Apostle Islands to aid Great Lakes navigation. One of the six lighthouses, the Raspberry Island Lighthouse, was recently restored, and continues to provide Lake Superior visitors with ranger guided tours. From mid-June into September, park staff is also available to conduct free guided tours of lighthouses at Devils, Michigan and Sand Islands if arrangements are made ahead of time. Source: Bayfield

13. Tommy Bartlett Show

There’s only one Tommy Bartlett Show. And fortunately it’s right in Wisconsin Dells. Each year families complete their Wisconsin Dells vacation watching Lake Delton come to life through jaw-dropping stunts, acrobatics, and water-skiers. Don’t miss out on this action-packed live event— Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend. Source:  Tommy Bartlett

14. Fred Smith’s Concrete Park

At Fred Smith’s Wisconsin Concrete Park, alongside a highway in Phillips, a jumbled crowd of over two hundred folk art figurines clog the landscape. It’s a park that is eternally crowded with revelers, and beer bottles — if not beer — abound. The public is invited to wander through this impressive sculptural display. A son of German immigrants, Fred Smith was born in 1886, and spent his working life as a north woodsman. With two other men, he built the Rock Garden Tavern in 1936, which he ultimately managed after his retirement from lumberjacking in 1949. In 1950 this self-taught sculptor began crafting his unique entourage of cowboys, miners, Indians, and soldiers. Source: Roadside America

15. Top Secrect, Inc Tour

Top Secret, a highly classified experience in Wisconsin Dells. A tour through the White House, upside down that is! See the White House basement where all the Top Secret information is stored. Fun for all ages, group tours welcome. Source: WisDells

16. Lost Canyon Tour

At Lost Canyon you enjoy the entire tour riding through a magnificent mile of cliff-walled gorges in comfortable yet quaint horse-drawn carriages. On one point you come to the narrow passages of Lost Canyon where the guides must talk the horses through the tight squeeze. In some of the deeper parts of Lost Canyon the sheer rock and sandstone wall have not felt the touch of the sun in more than 50,000 years. The ride through this canyon will show you some of the beauty of the Dells – the giant sandstone structures, a variety of plant life, and if you are lucky, you might observe some wildlife. It is an area left virtually untouched by man and it’s constantly changing. Just to think that it was a river bed so many years ago. Source: Hub Pages

17. Ripley’s Believe it or Not

If you are into it, do something extraordinary! Discover weird oddities. Witness the strange, the unbelievable, and the downright looney. 8 galleries, 2 sit-down theaters, 7 video presentations. More than a museum–It’s an adventure, if you like this kind of adventures. It’s not a big museum, also it is not that small. To get the most out of it you have to read the plaques on items to understand what some of it is. It is not like a water park where you would want to go there every time you are in the Dells, but it is worth checking out once since you are there. Source: Hub Pages

18. Jet Boat Adventures in the Dells

This 50-minute thrill ride on the beautiful Wisconsin River will get your heart racing and it will get you wet which a total blast on a hot summer day. With spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and speeds of up to 40 mph. These 32 ft boats can do power stops, slides, and the awesome power spin outs. You will scream with awe and pleasure guaranteed! Cruise over sandbars in as shallow as 1ft water. See the Dells at full speed and let our expert pilots mix their safe and exciting boat maneuvers with a light narrative. Source: Hub Pages

19. Wisconsin Dells Waterparks

Travel the world and the seven seas and you still won’t find a place that can hold a candle to Wisconsin Dells waterparks. Yes, we’re that confident about our waterparks in Wisconsin Dells. Maybe it’s because the indoor waterpark was pioneered here in Wisconsin Dells. Or because we have the largest concentration of outdoor and indoor waterparks of any place on the planet. Or because we lead the way with new rides and slides every year. If it’s waterpark fun you’re after, then you’re sure to find it at the waterparks in the Dells. Source: WisDells

20. Ella’s Deli & Ice Cream Parlor

If great food in a fun filled atmosphere is what you’re looking for, Ella’s Deli In Madison, Wisconsin is the destination for you. Ella’s is a one of a kind treat for kids and adults alike and will be a family favorite. Youngsters will be mesmerized by the animated displays that fill the restaurant from floor to ceiling. Even the glass top tables contain everything from model trains chugging though tiny towns to marble maze races to test your dexterity. The special two-page kids’ menu will keep them happy as well. Ranging from the classic choices of cheeseburgers and hot dogs to the matzo ball soup that is sure to be a new favorite, it also includes the Humpty Dumpty sundae. Source: Ella’s Deli

21. Bay Beach Museum Park

Bay Beach Amusement Park is a regional tourist attraction that offers affordable family fun. Sixteen carnival rides entertain young and old alike. Tickets are just 25 cents. May-Sept: May & Sept Sat-Sun 10am-6pm, MD-LD Daily 10am-9pm. Just off I43, exit 185, Webster Ave, go one block east to N. Irwin St. Turn left on N. Irwin to park entrance. Source: Travel Wisconsin

22. Door County Getaway

A vacation destination truly “like nowhere else.” With more than 300 miles of spectacular shoreline and five majestic state parks, Door County is a four-season, outdoor recreation and pleasure lover’s dream come true. If you enjoy history, discovery and fun, Door County is home to 11 lighthouses, unique communities, performing arts, entertainment, music, boutiques, galleries and mouth-watering cuisine — from gourmet to casual, formal to waterfront easy. Quality lodging choices including luxury resorts, historic inns, hotels, cabins, bed and breakfasts, vacation rentals or campground — and your stay will always be wonderful (and too short!). Door County truly is like nowhere else. Source: Door County

23. Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

Lake Geneva Canopy Tours has an Eco Adventure for everyone!  Explore our expansive 100 acres, year-round, at your pace.  For the ultimate thrill, conquerThe Beast, our longest zip line at 841 feet, on our world class Canopy Tour.  Challenge yourself with a High Ropes Excursion or explore our almost 9 miles ofArbor Trails with a Hike or Bike ride at your own pace. Source: Lake Geneva Canopy Tours

24. Milwaukee Art Museum

Milwaukee is the only city in the world where the city icon – the Milwaukee Art Museum – literally opens its “wings” to welcome all. Designed by star international architect Santiago Calatrava, this striking architectural beauty features a “wing-like” sunscreen with a span equaling that of a Boeing 747 that can be raised or lowered. Inside you’ll find an extensive collection of American and European works, German Expressionist, decorative arts, folk art and a Haitian art collection. The museum is also home to one of the world’s largest Georgia O’Keefe collections.  Source: Visit Milwaukee

25. Truly Experience Oconomowoc

From a quiet weekend retreat for two to the glamour and excitement of a national convention for one thousand, Oconomowoc has the facilities to meet your needs. But the charm of this unique part of Wisconsin only starts there. Nestled in the heart of the lake country, Oconomowoc has natural beauty that shines year ’round. The list of outdoor activities is only restrained by time and energy. The cluster of unique shopping experiences which Oconomowoc has is truly world class. Sights, sounds and aromas from around the world will delight your senses. The thorough enjoyment of browsing our downtown is perfectly complimented by the quality and variety of eating experiences available. From German to Dutch, Italian to Chinese, American to European, your palette is sure to be pleased. Source: Escape to Wisconsin

What else do you want to see?